Niche Watercraft has acquired Canadian boatbuilder Bruckmann Yachts and rebranded the business Bruckmann+Ellis.
The renaming honours naval architect Mark Ellis, whose designs defined the Bruckmann line for more than four decades.
The tribute was agreed upon by both Mark Bruckmann and Mark Ellis before his death in 2025.
Bruckmann Yachts was founded by Mark Bruckman who completed his final build the Mark Ellis-designed Bruckmann 50 Motorsailer – in July 2025 and retired his Ontario shop and production team in August 2025 after more than five decades of continuous production.
While in discussions with Mark Ellis about a potential project in 2024, Niche Watercraft founder and managing principal Mike Mullenberg learned of Bruckmann’s retirement plans, with Ellis, who had spent decades designing the Bruckmann hulls, making the introduction.
Transition the brand
Mullenberg met with Bruckmann in 2024 and the two agreed to transition the brand and molds to American production, ensuring the boats would continue to be built and Bruckmann’s 55-year legacy would carry forward.
“We had a great following across our brand builds – both power and sail, from many different designers,” said Mark Bruckmann.
“Our focus was always on building boats, not marketing and sales.
“Handing off to a group with deep marketing and sales experience makes good sense, as long as the build quality can be assured. That’s what we found in Niche.”
Bruckmann + Ellis name
Mullenberg added: “Mark Bruckmann spent 55 years earning the trust of his owners.
“When the time came to step back, he wasn’t looking for a buyer – he was looking for a steward.”
He continued: “Mark Ellis made that introduction because he believed in what we are building.
“We are honoured by the trust both men have placed in Niche and we take that responsibility seriously.
“Every hull we build under the Bruckmann + Ellis name will be worth of it.”
The acquisition adds to the Niche Watercraft porfolio which also includes Blue Jacket Yachts and Whitacre Catamarans.
Bruckmann + Ellis is set to retain its independent identity and owner community with Bruckmann remaining with the business as a contract advisor.
The first American production is targeted for Spring 2027.
Niche Watercraft has regional offices on the US West Coast, US Great Lakes and US East Coast.
