Melges Performance Sailboats: US sports boat manufacturer Melges in new hands
Michael Good
· 13.10.2025
The traditional sailboat manufacturer Melges Performance Sailboats is about to undergo a change of ownership. As the company from Zenda in the state of Wisconsin has announced, Cate Muller-Terhune and Allan Terhune Jr. are taking over the management of the family business, which has been in existence since 1945. The change marks the end of an 80-year era in which three generations of the Melges family have left their mark on boatbuilding. The company has made a name for itself primarily with its fast sports boats. Melges is primarily represented on the European market with its one-design classes Melges 24, Melges 20 and Melges 32 as well as its dinghy classes Melges 14, 15 and 19. In its home country of America, Melges is also successful with its fast and flounder-shaped scows (A / E / C).
The new owners have extensive experience in sailing. Allan Terhune Jr. is a three-time world champion and gold medallist at the Pan American Games. Since 2007, he has headed the North American one-class division of North Sails and has been nominated several times for the title of "Rolex Yachtsman of the Year". His wife, Cate Muller-Terhune, began her career in marketing in the sailing industry and is active in various management positions in the J/70 class and the Storm Trysail Club. "Melges has always been more than just boats for us. It's about the people, the competition and the community," explain the new boatyard owners. "We are honoured that Harry has entrusted us with the next step into a great future."
Despite the change of ownership, the company headquarters in Zenda will remain. The Melges Watersports Centre in Merritt Island (Florida) will also continue to function as a centre for regattas, training and community building. Andy Burdick will remain in his position as President of Melges, while Harry Melges III will remain with the company as a board member.
