Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of high-quality, luxury pontoons that are well-known for their durability, comfort and innovation. The company has been in business since 1957 and has established itself as one of the top pontoon manufacturers in the United States. Its headquarters are located in Dubuque, Iowa, a historic city on the Mississippi River known for its industrial roots and picturesque scenery. The history of Crest Pontoons dates back to 1957 when Dave Vetta Sr., an entrepreneur from Dubuque, acquired land along the Mississippi River with his brother-in-law to start a small boat manufacturing business. At first, they produced wooden boats under the name “Marine Innovators”, but soon realized that there was a growing demand for more affordable recreational boats. In 1960, Vetta Sr. designed and built his first aluminum pontoon boat which he named Crestliner – inspired by its sleek design resembling a cresting wave. This breakthrough design quickly gained popularity among boaters who were looking for an affordable yet reliable option for leisure activities on lakes and rivers. The success of Crestliner led to the founding of Crest Marine Inc., which became its own entity separate from Marine Innovators. Over the years, Crest continued to innovate and improve their pontoons with new features such as adjustable seating options, improved handling and performance capabilities. By constantly listening to customer feedback and incorporating it into their designs, Crest earned a reputation as an industry leader in quality construction techniques. In 1974, Dave Vetta Jr., took over leadership at Crest Marine Inc., continuing his father’s legacy while also expanding production capacity through investments in advanced technology equipment such as robotic welding machines to increase efficiency without sacrificing quality. In addition to technological advancements within their manufacturing process, they have also made significant strides towards sustainability by implementing environmentally friendly practices like using recycled materials whenever possible.When faced with challenges such as fluctuating market trends, Crest has always been able to adapt and remain at the forefront of the industry by continuously investing in research and development. This dedication to innovation allowed them to introduce new features such as plush seating, state-of-the-art electronics, and powerful engines – all while maintaining their affordable price point. In 1998, Crest Marine relocated its headquarters from Eldridge, Iowa to a larger facility in Dubuque. The move not only provided more space for production but also brought jobs and economic growth to the city. Today, Crest Pontoons employs over 200 people in Dubuque alone who are dedicated to delivering exceptional products and services. The company’s commitment to quality has earned them numerous accolades including multiple “Manufacturer of the Year” awards from both national and local organizations. They have also been recognized for their excellence in customer service with prestigious honors like the CSI award from NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) which is given based on customer satisfaction surveys. Crest Pontoons’ reputation for superior craftsmanship has attracted customers not only from across the United States but also internationally. Their boats can be found on water bodies around the world including Europe, South America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand – making it a global brand that is synonymous with luxury pontoons. Today’s Crest pontoons continue to reflect Dave Vetta Sr.’s original vision of offering recreational boaters a combination of affordability without compromising on quality or performance capabilities. With an eye towards sustainability through eco-friendly practices combined with advanced technology manufacturing processes – they have managed to stay ahead of competitors while remaining true to their roots as a family-owned business. As they celebrate over six decades in business since those humble beginnings along Mississippi River shores - one thing remains certain - when you’re out on your next pontoon adventure - you’ll know you’re riding aboard one of Iowa's finest exports: A Crest Pontoon made right here in Dubuque!

Crest Pontoons is a company that has been revolutionizing the pontoon boat industry since its inception in 1957. With over 60 years of experience, Crest has become synonymous with quality, innovation and luxury in the boating world. The story of Crest Pontoons began in Owosso, Michigan when David Gier and Dick Strefling joined forces to create a new type of pontoon boat. They wanted to design a vessel that combined the comfort and stability of traditional pontoons with the sleekness and performance of fiberglass boats. And thus, the first Crest Pontoon was born. From its humble beginnings as a small local business, Crest Pontoons quickly grew into an internationally recognized brand. In 1960, they introduced their first aluminum pontoon models which were lighter and more durable than their wooden counterparts. This advancement sparked further growth for the company as it expanded its market reach across North America. But it wasn't until 1972 that Crest truly made its mark on the industry by introducing their patented "FloteBote" technology – an innovative hull design that provided increased buoyancy and improved handling for smoother rides on rough waters. This breakthrough catapulted Crest into becoming one of the top manufacturers in the pontoon boat market. Innovation has always been at the core of Crest's success. Throughout its history, they have continued to push boundaries by developing new technologies such as seamless composite rail systems for added strength and durability, integrated swim platforms for easier water access, and plush seating options for maximum comfort on board. One notable example is their use of state-of-the-art MarineMat flooring material which not only enhances aesthetics but also provides superior traction while reducing noise levels on deck – making every ride even more enjoyable. Aside from technological advancements, another key factor behind Crest's success is their commitment to quality craftsmanship. Each boat is hand-built by skilled technicians using premium materials sourced from reputable suppliers. This ensures that every Crest Pontoon is not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to last. In recent years, Crest has also made a significant effort towards sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes into their production. They have introduced the use of recycled aluminum in their boats and implemented energy-efficient measures in their factories. But what truly sets Crest Pontoons apart from its competitors is its relentless pursuit of luxury. From elegant design elements such as LED lighting and high-end audio systems to luxurious amenities like custom bars, grills, and refrigerators – Crest offers an unparalleled boating experience for those who seek a touch of opulence on the water. Crest's commitment to luxury extends beyond just aesthetics. They have also partnered with some of the top brands in the marine industry to provide customers with customizable options for added personalization. These partnerships include collaborations with premium upholstery brand Ultrafabrics, high-performance engine manufacturer Mercury Marine, and advanced GPS navigation system provider Simrad – among others. Furthermore, Crest Pontoons' dedication to customer satisfaction goes beyond just delivering a high-quality product. Their team of experts works closely with each customer throughout the entire buying process – from selecting the perfect boat model to customizing it according to their preferences – ensuring that every boat meets or exceeds expectations. Today, Crest Pontoons boasts an extensive lineup consisting of over 25 models ranging from compact fishing pontoons to spacious party barges exceeding 30 feet in length. With endless customization options available, customers can create a pontoon boat that perfectly suits their needs and desires. The company's success has not gone unnoticed; they have received numerous accolades over the years including being named "Manufacturer Of The Year" by both Boating Industry Magazine and NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association). As we look towards the future, there is no doubt that Crest Pontoons will continue pushing boundaries in terms of innovation while maintaining its commitment to quality and luxury. With a loyal customer base and a strong reputation in the industry, Crest is poised to remain a leader in the pontoon boat market for many years to come.

Crest Pontoons is a well-established boat manufacturing company that has been producing high-quality pontoons since 1957. The company originated in Dubuque, Iowa and has played a significant role in the city's boating industry. In the late 1940s, Dubuque was experiencing an economic boom due to its thriving industrial sector. With access to the Mississippi River and its tributaries, many industries were using waterways for transportation of goods. This led to an increase in recreational boating activities, creating a demand for affordable and durable boats. Seeing this opportunity, brothers David Wittenauer Sr. and Maurice “Moe” Wittenauer founded Crest Boats Inc. in 1957 with their brother-in-law John Van Houten. Initially starting as a small operation with only three employees, they focused on building aluminum fishing boats for local fishers. However, as the popularity of pontoon boats grew across the country due to their stability and versatility on water, Crest Pontoons shifted its focus towards manufacturing these leisure crafts exclusively from 1966 onwards. Under David’s leadership as president and Moe’s expertise as an engineer, Crest continued to innovate its designs through research and development investments – resulting in stronger yet lightweight pontoons made from marine-grade aluminum alloy material. By the late 1970s-early '80s era where personal leisure vehicles like snowmobiles became popular; Crest introduced models such as "Super Fisherman" featuring enclosed cabins or hardtop roofs resembling those found on snowmobile trailers - making it possible for people who wanted more protection while cruising during colder weather conditions or extended trips along large bodies of water. The success of these new models led to further growth of Crest Pontoons' production capabilities at their Dubuque facility. In addition to expanding their product line-up with different sizes ranging from compact eight-foot-long single-seaters up-to twenty-five foot long vessels; Crest also started exporting to international markets such as Canada, Australia, and Europe. In the 1990s, Crest Pontoons experienced a period of significant change in ownership. The Wittenauer family sold the company to Mercury Marine in 1992, which was later acquired by Brunswick Corporation in 2005. During this time, Crest continued its tradition of producing high-quality pontoons with innovative designs while also expanding into other areas such as fishing boats and pedal-powered pontoon boats. Today, Crest Pontoons is still headquartered in Dubuque and operates under the umbrella of White River Marine Group – a division of Bass Pro Shops’ parent company Tracker Marine Group. With over six decades worth of experience and expertise behind them, they continue their commitment to providing customers with top-of-the-line pontoons for leisure boating experiences. Crest's strong ties to Dubuque are evident through its contribution towards employment opportunities within the community. The company employs over 300 people at its manufacturing facility located on Iowa Street along the Mississippi River waterfront - making it one of Dubuque’s largest employers. In addition to job creation, Crest has also been actively involved in giving back to the community through various initiatives such as sponsoring local events like "Riverfest" and donating pontoon boats for use by organizations that serve individuals with disabilities or special needs. Overall, Crest Pontoons' history in Dubuque showcases how a small operation started by three brothers evolved into an industry leader known for its quality craftsmanship and innovation. Its legacy continues today as it remains committed to providing customers with exceptional boating experiences while contributing positively towards its hometown's economy and community.

Dubuque, Iowa is a city located in the northeastern corner of the state along the Mississippi River. It is known as “The Key City” due to its location at the junction of three states: Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. With a population of approximately 57,000 people, Dubuque is the eighth-largest city in Iowa and serves as an economic hub for the surrounding area. The history of Dubuque can be traced back to Native American settlements along the riverbanks that were later explored by French explorers in the late 1600s. The land was eventually claimed by Spain and then became part of US territory through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The first permanent settlement was established in what is now known as Dubuque by Julien Dubuque, a French-Canadian fur trader who received permission from indigenous tribes to mine lead on their land. Incorporated as a town in 1837 and then as a city in 1857, Dubuque quickly became an important commercial center due to its prime location on the Mississippi River. The arrival of railroads further boosted its economy and led to significant industrial growth during the late 19th century. Industries such as lumbering, milling, brewing, meatpacking, and boat building thrived during this time. Today, Dubuque’s economy has diversified with major employers including John Deere (agricultural equipment), IBM (technology services), Mercy Medical Center (healthcare), Flexsteel Industries Inc. (furniture manufacturing), Rite-Hite Corporation (industrial equipment), among others. Tourism also plays a significant role in driving economic activity within this riverfront community with attractions such as National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium drawing visitors from all over. One unique aspect about Dubuque is its rich architecture which reflects different periods throughout history dating back centuries ago when it was first settled by Europeans. One notable example is the Old Jail Museum which was built in 1857 and is now one of the oldest jails west of the Mississippi River. Other architectural gems include Fourth Street Elevator, a National Historic Landmark that connects downtown with the bluffs above; Mathias Ham House, a Victorian mansion turned museum; and Fenelon Place Elevator Company, known as “the world’s shortest, steepest scenic railway”. The city also prides itself on its vibrant arts and culture scene. The Dubuque Museum of Art showcases works by regional artists while Five Flags Center hosts concerts, comedy shows, Broadway plays, and other live performances throughout the year. Annual events such as America’s River Festival and DubuqueFest bring together residents and visitors to celebrate music, food, art, and community. Education is highly valued in Dubuque with several institutions offering diverse learning opportunities for all ages. The city has three colleges: University of Dubuque (private), Clarke University (Catholic), Loras College (Catholic). There are also two community colleges – Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) serving over 5 counties including Dubuque County; and Wartburg Theological Seminary (Lutheran). Dubuque offers a high quality of life for its residents with numerous parks providing recreational activities such as hiking trails along bluffs overlooking the river or boating on Lake Delhi. For those seeking an urban lifestyle with a small-town feel, there are plenty of trendy restaurants & cafes downtown to choose from alongside local boutiques & specialty shops. In recent years, sustainability efforts have gained momentum within this environmentally-conscious community through initiatives like Bee Branch Watershed Flood Mitigation Project aimed at reducing flood risk while improving water quality in Bee Branch Creek watershed area near downtown. Despite its many positive attributes mentioned above however like any other city across America what makes it truly special is its people - proud locals who embody Midwestern values such as kindness, hard work, and community involvement. Dubuque’s diverse population is made up of people from different backgrounds who have come together to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. In conclusion, Dubuque, Iowa may be a small city but it has big heart. With its rich history, strong economy, beautiful architecture, thriving arts scene, and quality of life – it continues to attract new residents each year while also retaining those who call it home. As the city looks towards the future with plans for continued growth and development while preserving its unique character - one thing is certain: Dubuque will always remain “The Key City” in more ways than one.

Crest Pontoons is a renowned name in the boating industry, known for its high-quality pontoons and exceptional customer service. Founded in 1957 by David Eaves, Crest has been setting the standard for pontoon boats for over six decades. The history of Crest Pontoons dates back to 1946 when David Eaves purchased his first boat at the age of 16. He immediately fell in love with boating and started working at various marinas during summers while attending college. After completing his education, he began selling boats at a local dealership but soon realized that there was little focus on pontoon boats in the market. Intrigued by this gap in the market, Eaves decided to start his own business focused solely on pontoon boats. He saw great potential in this niche market as pontoons were cheaper than other types of boats and could be used for multiple purposes such as fishing, water sports or leisurely cruising. In 1957, Eaves founded "Crest Marine," initially operating out of a small garage near Ohio's Lake Chippewa. The company’s first model was called “Paddle Qwest” which featured an aluminum frame and wooden deck. This innovative design caught people's attention, and it wasn't long before demand started increasing rapidly. Within a few years of operation, Crest expanded its product line with models like Fish 'n' Cruise and Party Barge to cater to different segments of customers. In addition to offering different styles of pontoons, Crest also introduced several features that were not commonly found on other brands like plush upholstery seating and custom-fit covers. By the mid-1960s, Crest had established itself as one of the top manufacturers of pontoons with dealerships across Midwest states like Michigan, Indiana, Illinois etcetera. As demand continued to grow steadily year after year; it became apparent that more production capacity was required if the company was to keep up with its customers' expectations. In 1972, Crest built a new factory in Owosso, Michigan, and moved its operations there. The new facility spanned over 60,000 square feet and featured state-of-the-art production equipment that allowed for faster production without compromising on quality. This expansion also led to an increase in the number of employees at Crest Pontoons. The 1980s marked a significant milestone for Crest as it introduced aluminum pontoon tubes instead of wooden decked pontoons which were prone to rotting and damage from harsh marine environments. This change further enhanced the durability and longevity of their boats, earning them even more loyal customers. In the early 1990s, David Eaves retired from his position as President of Crest Marine but continued to serve as Chairman of the Board until his passing in 2014. His son Randy Eaves took over as President and CEO of Crest Pontoons while his other sons Jeffery and Bryan joined him later on. Under Randy's leadership, Crest expanded its product line once again by introducing luxury models like Savannah LST (Luxury Sport Tri-Toon) series which featured sleek designs, premium amenities such as LED lighting systems and custom audio systems that offered a luxurious boating experience like no other. Crest has always been committed to innovation; they have continuously invested in research & development programs aimed at improving existing products or creating groundbreaking ones. In recent years this has included advancements such as hydraulic steering systems providing greater control while navigating rough waters or electric power-assisted steering making docking easier than ever before. Today, Crest is one of the largest manufacturers of pontoon boats in North America with dealerships all around the world. They offer a wide range of models catering to different needs including fishing boats like Angler Fish 'n' Cruise series or luxury options like Caribbean Platinum Lounger series designed for ultimate relaxation on water. In addition to providing top-notch products, Crest Pontoons also takes pride in its exceptional customer service. They understand that buying a boat is a significant investment and strive to ensure that their customers have the best experience possible. This dedication has earned them numerous awards including "Highest Customer Satisfaction with Pontoon Boats" by J.D Power for six consecutive years. Crest Pontoons' success story is not just about producing high-quality boats; it's also about staying true to their core values of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. With over 60 years of history behind them, they continue to set the standard for pontoon boats and show no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of premium pontoon boats, known for their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. The company was founded in 1957 by David Kincer and Harold Schrock in Owosso, Michigan. The idea for Crest Pontoons originated when Kincer and Schrock saw the need for a more durable, stable, and comfortable boat that could navigate shallow waters. They noticed that traditional wooden-hulled boats were not suitable for this purpose as they were heavy and prone to rotting. To address these issues, the two men developed an all-aluminum hull design with welded seams instead of rivets. This new construction method provided greater strength and durability while also being lightweight enough to easily maneuver through shallow waterways. In 1960, Crest Pontoons introduced its first production model – the "Crest Super Commando." It quickly gained popularity among fishermen due to its stability on the water and spacious deck layout. Over time, Crest expanded its product line to include recreational models such as the "Family Fisherman" and luxury options like the "Classic Cruiser." Throughout the '70s and '80s, Crest continued to innovate by introducing features such as live wells for fishing enthusiasts, built-in coolers for entertaining guests onboard, and electric-driven propulsion systems. In 1991, Crest was acquired by Brunswick Corporation (now owned by Polaris Industries) but remained headquartered in Owosso under the leadership of David Kincer's son Robert Kincer until his retirement in 2019. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crest continued to expand its offerings with new models like the "Savannah," which featured luxurious amenities such as plush seating arrangements and full audio systems. In recent years, they have also incorporated advanced technology into their pontoons with features like touch screen controls and integrated navigation systems. Today,Crest Pontoons continues to be at the forefront of innovation in pontoon boat manufacturing. They have a diverse product line that caters to various needs and preferences, from fishing enthusiasts to leisure cruisers. The company's commitment to quality, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction has made them one of the most trusted brands in the industry. In 2020, Crest Pontoons celebrated their 60th anniversary with a renewed focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. This includes using recycled materials in their production processes and designing more fuel-efficient models. Overall, Crest Pontoons' rich history is a testament to its dedication towards providing customers with exceptional boating experiences through continuous innovation and superior craftsmanship. With each new model they introduce, they continue to set the standard for pontoon boats in terms of design, performance, and overall quality.

Dubuque, Iowa is a city with a rich history that dates back to the 17th century when it was first explored by French explorers. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa, Dubuque has been an important center for trade and commerce throughout its existence. The name "Dubuque" comes from Julien Dubuque, a French-Canadian fur trader who arrived in the area in 1785. He formed good relationships with local Native American tribes and was granted permission to mine lead ore by Chief Peosta of the Meskwaki tribe. This marked the beginning of European settlement in Dubuque. In 1803, after Louisiana Purchase, Lieutenant Zebulon Pike officially claimed the land for the United States government. The region saw significant growth during this time as more settlers moved to take advantage of its abundant natural resources such as timber and fertile soil for farming. The completion of Galena-Dubuque Road in 1837 further boosted trade and transportation between Dubuque and neighboring cities along the river. By this time, lead mining had become one of Dubuque's major industries which attracted immigrants from various countries including Germany, Ireland, Norway, England, and Switzerland. As more people settled in Dubuque during mid-19th century due to economic opportunities presented by lead mining industry; it became an industrial hub producing lumber products like furniture and wagon wheels along with soap making factories. In addition to being an important commercial center for agriculture produce from surrounding farmlands; Dubuque also became known as "the beer capital" because several large breweries were established here around this time period. One notable event that occurred during this era was when Abraham Lincoln visited Dubuque while campaigning for president in 1859. His speech at Washington Park drew thousands of people who gathered to hear him speak about issues such as slavery and states' rights. During late 19th century, Dubuque experienced a boom in manufacturing and transportation industries. The arrival of the railroad in 1855 further connected Dubuque to larger cities like Chicago and St. Louis, making it an important distribution center for goods. The city also became known as a major hub for boat building due to its location on the Mississippi River. Many steamboats were constructed here, which further fueled economic growth and trade with other river towns. Dubuque continued to prosper well into the 20th century with new industries such as meatpacking and paper mills emerging. Its population grew rapidly during this time period, reaching its peak at over 80,000 residents in the 1960s. However, like many industrial cities across America, Dubuque faced economic decline in the late 20th century due to changes in industry and technology. Several factories closed down causing job losses and a decline in population. But through concerted efforts by local government officials and community members; Dubuque was able to revitalize itself by diversifying its economy into healthcare services, education, tourism, and high-tech industries. Today, Dubuque is considered one of Iowa's most vibrant cities with a thriving downtown area filled with restaurants, shops, museums,and theaters. Its rich history is celebrated through various events such as "America's River Festival" which features concerts along the riverfront each year. The city has also been recognized nationally for its sustainable practices including energy efficiency initiatives that have helped reduce carbon emissions significantly over recent years. In conclusion,Dubuque's history shows how it has evolved from a small fur trading post into an important industrial center before transforming itself again into a modern-day bustling city that offers something for everyone. Its ability to adapt to changing times while preserving its past makes it truly unique among Midwestern cities.

Dubuque, Iowa is a city located in the eastern part of the state, along the Mississippi River. The area was first inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Meskwaki and Ho-Chunk people. In 1788, French-Canadian fur trader Julien Dubuque arrived in the area and established a trading post with permission from local Native American leaders. Dubuque's settlement grew as more traders and settlers arrived in the early 19th century. In 1833, it became part of Wisconsin Territory and was named after its founder. As more European immigrants came to the region in search of land and opportunity, Dubuque quickly developed into a bustling hub for trade and commerce. The city's location on the Mississippi River made it an important transportation center for steamboats carrying goods upriver from New Orleans to cities like St. Paul and Minneapolis. By mid-century, Dubuque had become one of Iowa's largest cities. In addition to being a key port on the river, Dubuque also played an important role during westward expansion in America. It served as a major staging point for pioneers heading west on both land routes such as the California Trail or Oregon Trail, as well as those traveling by water down the Mississippi River. As industry began to develop in Dubuque during this time period, agriculture was also booming in surrounding areas thanks to fertile farmland along with advancements in farming technology. During World War II, Dubuque became an important manufacturing center due to its strategic location near major transportation routes. Companies like John Deere Tractor Works produced equipment for military use which helped support economic growth even further. Today,Dubuque has evolved into a thriving city with diverse industries including healthcare services,major insurance companies,and higher education institutions such as University of Dubuque,Loras College,and Clarke University.The city also boasts several cultural attractions,such as art galleries,theaters,and museums,as well as a lively downtown area with restaurants,boutiques,and entertainment venues. One of Dubuque's most notable landmarks is the Fenelon Place Elevator,the world's shortest and steepest scenic railway. Built in 1882,it provides visitors with stunning views of the city and surrounding bluffs. In addition to its economic growth,Dubuque has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. The city has implemented numerous green initiatives including a comprehensive recycling program,energy-efficient buildings,and renewable energy projects. Dubuque's rich history can be seen throughout the city in its beautiful architecture,including many historic homes and buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Old Jail Museum,which operated as a jail from 1857-1971;the Mathias Ham House,a Victorian mansion built in 1856;and St. Raphael Cathedral,one of Iowa's oldest churches dating back to 1839. In recent years,Dubuque has received numerous accolades for its quality of life,receiving recognition as one of America's Most Livable Small Cities by Forbes Magazine and being named an All-America City by the National Civic League. From its humble beginnings as a fur trading outpost to becoming a thriving modern city,Dubuque's history is deeply intertwined with that of America itself. Today,it continues to be a vibrant community where past,present,and future converge in an ever-evolving blend of culture,economy,and progress.

Crest Pontoons, one of the leading manufacturers of pontoon boats in the world, has a rich history in Dubuque, Iowa. The company was founded in 1957 by Charles Bennett and Joe Pucci, two friends who shared a passion for boating and saw an opportunity to create high-quality pontoons. The story of Crest Pontoons begins with Charles Bennett’s love for water and boating. He grew up on the shores of Lake Huron in Michigan and spent his childhood summers exploring the lake on various boats. As he got older, his passion for boating only grew stronger. In 1946, after serving in World War II as a pilot, Bennett moved to Dubuque where he started working at a local boat dealership. Bennett met Joe Pucci while working at the dealership. Pucci had also served in World War II as a naval officer before moving to Dubuque to work at John Deere Tractor Works. Like Bennett, Pucci was an avid boater and they quickly bonded over their shared interest. In the late 1950s, aluminum pontoon boats were becoming increasingly popular among recreational boaters due to their stability and spaciousness compared to traditional boats. However, most pontoons available at that time were made from thin aluminum sheets that easily dented or punctured. Bennett noticed this flaw and saw an opportunity to improve upon existing designs by creating stronger and more durable pontoons using thicker aluminum sheeting. With support from Pucci and other investors, they founded Crest Pontoon Company in 1957. Initially located on South Locust Street in Dubuque's Port District area near downtown Dubuque along the Mississippi Riverfront; Crest’s first factory consisted of just three employees – Bennett himself who oversaw production; mechanic Jim Smith who welded frames; while Louie LaFleur did carpentry work such as flooring installation and upholstery. In the first year of operation, Crest Pontoons sold 24 boats. The following year, they doubled their sales with 48 boats sold. As word spread about the quality and durability of Crest pontoons, demand for their products grew rapidly. By the early 1960s, Crest had outgrown its original factory and moved to a larger facility on North Port Road in Dubuque’s industrial park. This allowed them to increase production and expand their product line to include smaller models such as fishing boats and personal watercrafts. Throughout the next few decades, Crest continued to innovate and improve upon their designs while maintaining a commitment to using high-quality materials. In 1981, Bennett retired from his position as president of the company but remained involved as a consultant until his passing in 1997. Under new leadership, Crest Pontoons experienced significant growth during the late 1980s and early 1990s. They expanded into international markets by exporting boats to Canada and Europe. In addition, they introduced new features such as custom graphics options and hydraulic steering systems that further enhanced the overall boating experience for customers. In recent years, Crest has also embraced technological advancements in boat manufacturing by incorporating computer-aided design (CAD) software into their production process. This has allowed them to create more precise designs while streamlining production time. Today, nearly six decades after its founding in Dubuque by Charles Bennett and Joe Pucci; Crest is still family-owned with third-generation members now leading operations at its headquarters located just off Kerper Boulevard on Dubuque's west end – not far from where it all started back in South Locust Street on what used be referred locally as "the flats." Crest’s dedication to quality craftsmanship has earned them numerous awards throughout their history including being named Manufacturer of The Year multiple times by both local organizations like Greater Dubuque Development Corporation; along with industry-wide recognition as one of the top pontoon manufacturers in the world. As Crest Pontoons continues to grow and evolve, their commitment to providing customers with high-quality, durable and innovative products remains unchanged. With a strong history rooted in Dubuque, Iowa, Crest Pontoons is poised to continue leading the way in the pontoon industry for many years to come.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of high-quality pontoon boats, with over 60 years of experience in the industry. Founded in 1957 by Charles Bennett and Harry Wenke, Crest has become synonymous with innovation, reliability, and luxury on the water. The company's beginnings can be traced back to Michigan, where its founders started building wooden boats for fishing and leisure activities. However, it was not until the early 1960s that Crest shifted its focus to manufacturing aluminum pontoons. This shift proved to be a turning point for the company as they quickly gained popularity among boating enthusiasts. One of the key factors behind Crest's success is their commitment to constantly improving their products through research and development. The company takes pride in staying ahead of industry trends and incorporating cutting-edge technology into their designs. This dedication to innovation has enabled them to consistently produce top-of-the-line pontoons that meet customers' evolving needs and preferences. Today, Crest offers a wide range of pontoon boats suitable for various purposes such as cruising, fishing, watersports or just relaxing on the water. Their lineup includes three main series – Classic LX (entry-level), Caribbean RS (mid-level), and Savannah (luxury). Each series features different sizes and layouts to cater to different budgets and preferences. What sets Crest apart from other pontoon manufacturers is their use of advanced materials like T6 aluminum alloy tubes which are stronger than standard marine-grade aluminum used by most competitors. These tubes are welded together using an exclusive M-shaped cross section design called "M-Brackets," which provides more structural strength resulting in better ride quality. Additionally, all Crest pontoons come equipped with HMX Performance Strakes - unique lifting strakes integrated into each tube that offer improved handling and performance even at higher speeds while also reducing fuel consumption by up to 30%. Another notable feature found on most models is CPT (Crest’s Patented Technology) - a unique construction technique that combines the aluminum structure with multiple layers of fiberglass and foam. This creates an exceptionally sturdy yet lightweight boat, making it easier to handle both on and off the water. Crest is also known for its elegant designs and attention to detail. From luxurious upholstery options to customizable LED lighting packages, every aspect of their boats exudes sophistication and style. The company offers a wide range of customization options, allowing customers to personalize their pontoon boats according to their preferences. The brand's commitment to customer satisfaction goes beyond just providing high-quality products. Crest has an extensive dealer network across North America, ensuring convenient access for customers looking to purchase or service their pontoons. They also offer excellent after-sales support through various resources such as owner manuals, videos, FAQs, and one-on-one consultations. In recent years, Crest has expanded its reach globally by exporting boats all over Europe and Asia-Pacific regions. Their reputation for producing top-of-the-line pontoons continues to grow in these markets as well. Apart from manufacturing premium quality pontoon boats, Crest is also dedicated towards preserving the environment through sustainable practices. The company uses environmentally friendly materials in their production processes while continuously working towards reducing waste generation at their facilities. In 2019, Crest was acquired by Polaris Industries – a global leader in powersports vehicles manufacturing – which further strengthened its position in the market. With this new partnership comes added resources for research and development along with increased visibility among potential buyers worldwide. To sum up,Crest Pontoons is a reliable brand that has set itself apart from other manufacturers through innovative design techniques coupled with high-quality materials resulting in superior performance on the water. With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction backed by exceptional after-sales service standards, it's no surprise that they have gained loyal followers who swear by the brand's name when it comes to buying pontoons.