LEADERS OF THE INDUSTRY
Innovators improving the boating experience
PMY: How does your passion for boating and business feed innovation?
JEFF DRUEK: My profound passion for boating led me into the maritime industry by a twist of fate. It began when one of my now competitors refused to build a yacht to my preferred specifications. Unwilling to accept the status quo, I took matters into my own hands, resulting in the inception of Outer Reef Yachts. This journey transformed Outer Reef Yachts into what I proudly call a ‘custom, semi-custom builder.’ An excellent illustration of our approach is the newly launched Outer Reef Azure 670 Sport Yacht model. This yacht is a direct response to the requests of young owners who sought an Outer Reef tailored to the ultimate outdoorsman’s desires. They envisioned alfresco dining, entertainment, and full immersion as their top priorities. Eager to rise to the challenge, I worked closely with them to configure the perfect indoor/outdoor long-range cruiser. Among many other enticing features, the pièce de résistance of the Azure 670 Sport Yacht is its seamless transition between the indoor galley and the outdoor aft deck and social spaces. The yacht’s drop-down window, which seamlessly connects the salon to the aft deck, is equipped with a slide-out bar top, elevating both entertainment and convenience to new heights.
PMY: What is your company doing in the area of Sustainability? What is your vision for your company’s impact on the environment over the next 10 years?
JEFF DRUEK: Over time, we have dedicated ourselves to enhancing Outer Reef Yachts’ construction methods and the selection of materials, making consistent strides in our commitment to environmental sustainability. Our ongoing efforts have led to a substantial reduction in our ecological footprint. We have increasingly adopted the use of recycled materials, such as vinyl and natural grass cloth wall coverings and pre-manufactured flooring in place of various wood finishes. Throughout the construction process, we have transitioned to less environmentally impactful protective materials, replacing plastic masking and floor coverings with recycled paper products. Unlike many other manufacturers, we’ve made a conscious decision not to employ plastic sheets and tarps during the yacht shipping process. Our selection of components and parts, particularly when partnering with engine and generator manufacturers, prioritizes the integration of the most efficient combustion engines. In line with our ecoconscious approach, Outer Reef even takes the extra step of recycling its steel shipping cradles once they’ve served their purpose. This is just one aspect of our comprehensive plan to continue incorporating sustainability methods and practices wherever feasible.
PMY: How will your products change to meet the needs of the evolving marketplace?
JEFF DRUEK: In today’s yacht market, discerning buyers prioritize exceptional quality, safety, and efficiency, all while seeking a yacht tailored to their individual cruising lifestyle. To exemplify this approach, let’s delve into our meticulous design process within the Classic Series. Our commitment to crafting unique vessels begins with a thorough exploration of each customer’s ‘must-haves.’ These considerations encompass personal preferences, whether they lean toward owner-operated or crew-assisted voyages, the desire for special spaces accommodating family and friends, and even the inclusion of family pets. This personalized approach is the cornerstone of our philosophy. Rather than following fleeting industry trends, we methodically adapt each build to the customer’s specific requirements. This unwavering dedication not only preserves the long-term value of our yachts but also sets Outer Reef apart from the conventional market.With an emphasis on resale/exit strategy early on during the design process, it’s not uncommon for the resale value of an Outer Reef yacht to surpass the initial purchase price. At the heart of it all, our ultimate objective, as a dedicated quality builder, is to provide our customers with the utmost satisfaction in yacht ownership. With these processes in place, Outer Reef owners have limitless itineraries, and their ownership experience is nothing short of exceptional.