Canadian group, Bain Capital announced on 29 June, that a definitive agreement to acquire Bavaria had been concluded. The London-based Financial Times reported on the 28 that Bain Capital had paid as much as Euro 1.3 billion over AUD$2 Billion. The eye-watering price supposedly paid would make it a staggering 16 times reported 2006 earnings. The Bavaria deal demonstrates just how much the boating industry is the darling of the investment community.

Bob Mulkearns of North South Yachting had the good fortune to be at the Bavaria factory in Giebelstadt Germany on the day of the announcement. He commented that the staff at the factory were excited that the long period of courting deals from as many as 15 potential suitors was finally concluded. The deal secures the continuation of the culture and manufacturing formulae that has made Bavaria so successful. For the creator of Bavaria, Mr Winfried Herrmann and his family it was a day to be remembered as he received the rewards of the work he had created in the years since the 1980s that set Bavaria apart from all other marine industry manufacturers.

To ensure continuation of the successful management team, Mr Muller and Mr Reuer will take positions as Directors. A new appointment on the technical side will be made over the next few months to take over the vital role of Mr Herrmann, which in turn will allow Mr Herrmann to withdraw from active management.

In the words of the management team it will be “business as usual” Bavaria style, new models rolling out, new standard inclusions (eg microwave ovens on all yachts 34ft and over), and continued growth.

The new owners were courted for what they could bring to the future of Bavaria. Bain Capital has assets under management exceeding Euro 35billion (AUD$55billion) and currently holds investments in Bombardier Recreational products producers of jet skis , sport boats, skidoos, outboard motors, and Bombardier Aircraft. With all that support and knowledge of the North American market, Bob Mulkearns says the next chapter in the Bavaria growth looks to be as exciting as the last.