Crest Pontoons is a well-known name in the boating industry, with a rich history that dates back more than 60 years. The company’s story began in Madison, Wisconsin, where it was founded by three brothers – Dave and Bill Ehrmantraut and Joe Antoniazzi – who shared a passion for boating. In the early 1950s, David Ehrmantraut Sr. had just returned from serving in the Korean War when he met his future business partner Joe Antoniazzi at a local tavern. Both men were avid fishermen and quickly became friends. They often talked about their love for boats and dreamed of one day starting a business together. Their dream became a reality when they met Bill Ehrmantraut, Dave’s younger brother who had recently graduated from college with an engineering degree. He brought his technical skills to the table along with his own passion for boating. Together, the three partners founded Crest Boats Inc., which would later become known as Crest Pontoons. Their first location was on Lake Monona in Madison where they built wooden fishing boats and paddleboats to rent out to tourists visiting the area. Within just two years of starting their business venture, they outgrew their small operation on Lake Monona and moved to Middleton, Wisconsin where they could expand production and add new models to their lineup. One of those models was what would become known as “the original pontoon”. At this time, pontoons were not widely used or popular among recreational boaters. However, Crest Pontoons saw potential in these flat-bottomed boats that featured aluminum tubes welded together to create flotation devices called "pontoon logs". The company introduced its first all-aluminum pontoon boat in 1957 under the name “Crescent.” This design revolutionized pontoon construction by replacing traditional wood decking with aluminum planks that made them lighter yet stronger. The Crescent became an instant success and set the standard for pontoon boats in the industry. In 1960, Crest Boats Inc. rebranded as Crest Pontoons and relocated to a larger facility in nearby Baraboo, Wisconsin. With a growing demand for their innovative pontoons, the company continued to expand production and add new models over the next few decades. In 1971, David Ehrmantraut Sr.’s sons – Dave Jr., Jim, and Tom – joined the family business. They brought fresh ideas and modernized production techniques that helped take Crest Pontoons to new heights. Under the leadership of this second generation of Ehrmantrauts, Crest Pontoons continued its commitment to innovation and quality craftsmanship while also expanding its dealer network throughout North America. The company’s reputation grew as it introduced several groundbreaking designs such as “the first triple-log pontoon” in 1987 which provided greater stability on rough waters, making them suitable for skiing and other water sports. In 1996, Crest Pontoons moved its headquarters back to Madison where it all began. The move allowed them to be closer to their roots while also being more centrally located within Wisconsin’s boating community. Today, Crest Pontoons is still owned by the Ehrmantraut family who have passed down their passion for boating from one generation to another. It remains one of the largest pontoon manufacturers in North America with a wide range of models that cater to different boating needs from fishing boats to luxury cruisers. Despite facing challenges such as economic downturns and changing consumer preferences over six decades in business, what has kept Crest Pontoons going strong is its dedication towards constant innovation and adapting with changing times while staying true to its core values of quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. With each passing year comes new advancements in technology that allow boat builders like Crest Pontoons to create even more efficient, stylish and luxurious pontoons. Today, Crest Pontoons continues to push the boundaries of pontoon design with features like fold-out bar tops, built-in grills, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. As they celebrate their 60th anniversary in 2021, Crest Pontoons looks back on a rich history filled with milestones and achievements while also looking towards the future with excitement and determination to continue leading the way in pontoon innovation. Madison, Wisconsin will always hold a special place in the heart of Crest Pontoons as it is where this family-owned business began its journey. The company’s success story serves as an inspiration for other entrepreneurs who dream of turning their passions into successful businesses. And for boating enthusiasts around the world, Crest Pontoons remains a trusted name that symbolizes quality craftsmanship and endless possibilities on the water.

Crest Pontoons is a well-known brand in the boating industry, known for its high-quality and luxurious pontoon boats. The company has been manufacturing pontoons for over 60 years and has established itself as one of the leading brands in the market. In this paper, we will discuss the history of Crest Pontoons, their products and features, customer satisfaction, and their impact on the boating industry. History Crest Pontoons was founded in 1957 by an engineer named David Hagerman. He had a vision to create a boat that would be stable on water while also providing comfort and luxury to its passengers. With his engineering background and passion for boating, Hagerman designed a unique pontoon boat with three tubes instead of two like traditional pontoons. This gave it better stability on water as well as increased weight capacity. The first Crest Pontoon was built in Owosso, Michigan using aluminum frames covered with marine-grade carpeting. It quickly gained popularity among boaters because of its innovative design and superior performance on water. As demand grew, production expanded to more models with various sizes and features. Product Features Crest Pontoons offers a wide range of models that cater to different needs and preferences of customers. All their boats are made from high-quality materials such as marine-grade aluminum frames, stainless steel hardware, UV-resistant vinyl seats which ensure durability even in harsh weather conditions. One distinctive feature that sets Crest Pontoons apart from other brands is their patented "Wave-Tamer" technology which provides smooth rides even in choppy waters. This technology includes lifting strakes attached to the underside of each tube which helps reduce drag while increasing speed and fuel efficiency. Another popular feature is their "Lift Up" changing room option available in most models which provide privacy for passengers when needed or can be used as extra storage space when not in use. Customer Satisfaction Crest Pontoons has a strong reputation for providing excellent customer service and satisfaction. They offer a 10-year warranty on their boats which is one of the longest in the industry, showing their confidence in the quality of their products. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is also evident through their customizable options. Customers can choose from different floor plans, seating arrangements, colors, and accessories to create a boat that meets all their needs and preferences. Impact on Boating Industry Crest Pontoons has been an influential player in shaping the pontoon boating industry. Their innovative designs and features have set new standards for pontoon boats, making them more versatile and appealing to customers. Moreover, they have introduced eco-friendly models with electric propulsion systems that reduce emissions and noise pollution in waterways. This aligns with Crest's mission to promote sustainability and protect the environment. The company also actively participates in community events such as clean-up initiatives for lakes and rivers, promoting responsible boating practices among its customers. Conclusion In conclusion, Crest Pontoons has made significant contributions to the boating industry through its high-quality products, innovative designs, commitment to customer satisfaction, and environmental responsibility. With over six decades of experience in manufacturing pontoons boats and continuously evolving with changing market demands, Crest continues to be a trusted brand among boaters worldwide. Whether you are looking for a luxurious family boat or an eco-friendly option for cruising on waterways, Crest Pontoons offers something for everyone.

Crest Pontoons has a rich history in Madison, Wisconsin, dating back to 1957 when it was founded by James Jannsen. Originally named Crest Marine, the company started as a small boat repair shop on the shore of Lake Mendota. However, Jannsen had bigger dreams and aspirations for his business. In 1960, Crest Marine began manufacturing its own line of aluminum boats and quickly gained popularity among locals for their durability and quality craftsmanship. As demand grew, the company expanded its production facilities and introduced new models such as fishing boats and ski boats. By the late 1960s, Crest Marine had established itself as a leading manufacturer of pontoons in Wisconsin. The company's success caught the eye of Brunswick Corporation, one of the largest marine companies in North America. In 1971, Brunswick acquired Crest Marine and moved its operations to nearby Necedah. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crest Marine continued to innovate and expand its product offerings. In 1979, they introduced their first fiberglass pontoon with a V-hull design that allowed for better performance on water while maintaining stability at rest. Throughout the 1980s and '90s, Crest Pontoons continued to grow under Brunswick's leadership. They opened new production facilities in other states such as Georgia and Tennessee to meet increasing demand for their products nationwide. In 1996, Mercury Marine (a division of Brunswick) acquired Lund Boat Company based in New York Mills which also produced pontoons under brand names "Sunchaser" & "Smokercraft". These brands were then consolidated into Lund Boats' existing plant located near Little Falls MN where Lund still produces these lines today including some smaller runabouts using tiller steering like Smoker Craft used mainly sold through Cabela's retail stores under WYNN Manufacturing Inc DBA Landau Pontoon Boats Crest Pontoons experienced another significant change in ownership in 2007 when it was acquired by Genmar Holdings, a leading boat manufacturer and distributor. The acquisition brought new management and fresh ideas to the company, resulting in increased production and sales. In 2010, Crest Pontoons moved its operations back to Wisconsin when it was acquired by Premier Marine Inc., a family-owned pontoon manufacturer based in Wyoming, Minnesota. This move allowed Crest Pontoons to once again be rooted in its original home state of Wisconsin. Today, Crest Pontoons continues to thrive under the leadership of Premier Marine Inc. The company offers a wide range of pontoon models including luxury cruisers, fishing pontoons, and performance boats. They are known for their high-quality construction techniques such as fully welded seams and sturdy aluminum frames. Crest Pontoons remains committed to providing customers with top-of-the-line pontoons that offer both comfort and performance on the water. With over 60 years of experience in the industry and a strong dedication to innovation, it is no wonder why Crest Pontoons has become one of the most trusted names in boating within Madison and beyond.

Madison, Wisconsin is a vibrant and dynamic city that serves as the capital of the state of Wisconsin. Located in the heart of America's Midwest, Madison has a rich history, diverse culture, and unique charm that make it an attractive place to live, work, and visit. History The origins of Madison can be traced back to 1829 when James Duane Doty purchased land on an isthmus between two lakes – Mendota and Monona – with plans to develop a new city. The area was home to various Native American tribes before European settlement. In 1836, the Wisconsin Territorial Legislature selected Madison as its capital due to its central location within the territory. Throughout its early years as a city, Madison experienced rapid growth due to its strategic location for trade and transportation. It also became known as a center for education with the establishment of the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1848. During this time period, many important buildings were constructed which still stand today such as the State Capitol building. Economy Today, Madison boasts a thriving economy driven by various industries including healthcare, education, technology and government services. The university remains one of the largest employers in the city along with several major healthcare systems such as UW Health and UnityPoint Health-Meriter. Madison is also home to numerous startups and tech companies which have contributed significantly to job growth in recent years. This has earned it recognition as one of America's top cities for entrepreneurs by Forbes magazine. Culture Madison prides itself on being an inclusive community where people from all walks of life are welcomed with open arms. This diversity is reflected in its vibrant arts scene which includes world-class museums like Chazen Museum of Art and Overture Center for Arts. Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy at popular venues like High Noon Saloon or Majestic Theatre where local artists perform alongside big-name acts throughout year-round festivals and events. The city is also home to the Madison Symphony Orchestra which has been delighting audiences for over 90 years. Outdoor Recreation Madison's picturesque setting between two lakes makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city boasts a vast network of hiking and biking trails, as well as numerous parks where residents can relax and enjoy nature. During the warmer months, water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming are popular on Lake Mendota and Monona. As winter arrives, these same lakes transform into ice skating rinks creating a magical atmosphere in the heart of the city. Food Scene Madison is known for its diverse dining scene with options ranging from local farm-to-table restaurants to international cuisines. In fact, Madison was named one of America's "Best Foodie Cities" by Livability.com due to its strong focus on sustainable farming practices and support for small businesses within the food industry. One must-visit spot in Madison is the Dane County Farmers' Market – the largest producer-only farmers' market in America – which takes place every Saturday morning around Capitol Square during warmer months. Here you can find fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal cheeses, and more from local vendors. Conclusion In conclusion, Madison offers something for everyone – whether you're looking to immerse yourself in history or explore modern innovation; whether you prefer bustling urban life or tranquil natural surroundings; whether your interests lie in arts or outdoor recreation; this vibrant city truly has it all. With its welcoming community spirit and endless opportunities for growth and enjoyment, it's no wonder that many consider Madison not just a great place to visit but also an ideal place to call home.

Crest Pontoons is a family-owned and operated company that has been in the business of building high-quality pontoon boats for over 60 years. Founded in 1957 by David Warren, Crest Pontoons has become one of the most recognized names in the boating industry, known for its innovative designs, exceptional craftsmanship, and dedication to customer satisfaction. The history of Crest Pontoons can be traced back to a small town called Owosso, Michigan. As a young man with an entrepreneurial spirit and love for boating, David Warren saw an opportunity to create something unique. He noticed that there was a growing demand for pontoons – flat-bottomed boats with cylindrical floats attached to them – but not many companies producing them at the time. This led him to start his own business, which he initially named Maurelle Products Company. In its early days, Crest Pontoons focused on manufacturing pedal boats and rowboats using aluminum as their main material. However, after experimenting with different materials and boat designs, Warren realized that aluminum could provide better stability and durability for pontoons than other materials like wood or fiberglass. With this realization came the birth of Crest's signature product – the all-aluminum pontoon boat. These new pontoons were revolutionary in both design and functionality compared to others on the market at that time. They featured spacious decks perfect for fishing or entertaining guests while maintaining stability even on rough waters. As word spread about these innovative pontoons built by Maurelle Products Company (now renamed as "Crest"), demand quickly grew beyond just local customers in Michigan. In response to this increasing demand for their products across state lines came more significant investments from investors looking to expand production capabilities. By 1960s , under Warren’s leadership,Maurelle Products Company had grown significantly into one of the leading manufacturers of pontoon boats in America.With growth also came expansion plans,and soon enough, Crest Pontoons relocated to a larger facility in Owosso, Michigan. In addition to expanding its production capabilities, Crest also focused on developing new and improved designs for their pontoons. They introduced features like wrap-around seating, built-in furniture, and various floor plans tailored to different customer needs. These innovations allowed customers to customize their boats according to their preferences and made Crest stand out from other pontoon manufacturers. As the company continued to grow through the 1970s and 1980s , it stayed true to its commitment towards innovation while maintaining its high standards of quality craftsmanship. It wasn't just about building boats; it was about creating an experience for boaters – one that combined comfort, performance, and style. In 1991 , David Warren passed away suddenly at the age of 62 leaving behind a legacy of excellence in boat building. His son Randall Warren took over as CEO of Crest Pontoons with a strong vision to continue his father's legacy while embracing new technologies entering the market. Under Randall’s leadership came more significant expansion opportunities leading up-to opening another manufacturing facility in North Carolina,in order cater demand . This growth enabled them produce even more units annually without compromising on quality or attention-to-detail. Today,Crest offers an extensive range of models from entry-level pontoons perfect for family outings,to luxury vessels designed specifically for entertaining guests or cruising around lakes.Crest's commitment towards innovation continues with each passing year,and they are constantly upgrading their design techniques using advanced technology such as computer-aided design (CAD) software,to ensure precision during construction process.They have also embraced environmentally friendly practices by utilizing recycling processes throughout the manufacturing process . Crest has received numerous awards throughout its history,such as "Best Pontoon Boat Manufacturer" awarded by Boating Industry Magazine multiple times.Since its inception,the company has produced over thousands of pontoon boats that have brought joy and memorable experiences for families,friends,and boating enthusiasts around the world. In conclusion,Crest Pontoons has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1957. From producing pedal boats and rowboats to becoming one of the leading manufacturers of pontoon boats, Crest has stayed true to its core values of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. With over six decades of experience under their belt, Crest continues to set new standards in the boating industry with their exceptional products and services. They have truly made an impact on the boating community and will continue to do so for generations to come.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of high-quality pontoon boats. The company has a rich history that dates back to the 1950s when it was founded by Charles Bennett in Owosso, Michigan. In the early days, Crest Pontoons focused on building wooden pontoon boats for recreational use. These pontoons quickly gained popularity among boaters due to their durability and stability on the water. As demand grew, Crest Pontoons expanded its production and introduced aluminum pontoons in the late 1960s. With advancements in technology and materials, Crest Pontoons continued to innovate and improve their product offerings throughout the years. In 1987, they became one of the first companies to introduce triple-tube pontoons with lifting strakes for better performance and handling on water. The early 2000s saw significant growth for Crest Pontoons as they expanded their manufacturing facilities and introduced new models with luxury features such as plush seating, sound systems, and LED lighting. Innovation has always been at the core of Crest Pontoon's success. In recent years, they have pioneered several industry-first features such as integrated swim platforms, retractable bimini tops, electric power steering systems, and more. Today, Crest Pontoons continues to be a leader in pontoon boat manufacturing with a wide range of models designed for different types of boating experiences – from fishing to cruising – all while maintaining their commitment to quality craftsmanship. In addition to producing top-of-the-line boats, Crest Pontoons also values customer satisfaction. They offer customizable options so customers can create a boat that fits their specific needs and preferences. This dedication to customer service has earned them numerous awards over the years including being named "Best Built Boat" multiple times by NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association). With over six decades of experience in designing and building pontoon boats that are both stylish and functional,Crest Pontoons has established itself as a trusted brand in the boating industry. They are continuously pushing boundaries and setting new standards for pontoon boat design, making them a go-to choice for boaters around the world.

Madison, Wisconsin is a city rich in history and culture. Located in the heart of the Midwest, Madison has been shaped by its diverse population and unique geographical location. From its early settlement by Native American tribes to becoming a bustling state capital, Madison’s story is one of resilience and growth. The first inhabitants of what is now known as Madison were members of the Ho-Chunk Nation, also known as Winnebago. The Ho-Chunk people have lived on this land for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. They called the area “Taychopera,” meaning “land where there are four lakes.” These four lakes – Lake Mendota, Lake Monona, Lake Wingra, and Lake Waubesa – played an essential role in shaping both the physical landscape and cultural identity of Madison. In 1832, with the signing of the Treaty of Washington between Chief Black Hawk and United States representatives, much of southern Wisconsin was ceded to white settlers. This opened up opportunities for European immigrants to settle in this region. One such settler was James Duane Doty who purchased land from First Nations peoples along Lake Mendota’s shore with intentions to build a city. Doty named his new settlement after President James Madison and envisioned it as a center for commerce in south-central Wisconsin due to its strategic location between two major waterways –the Mississippi River system via Rock Riverand Fox-Wisconsin waterway leading into Green BayonLake Michigan.Doty hoped that this would attract business ventures like fur trading posts or mills.Due to these ambitions,Madison became incorporatedin1846asawholely-owned townbyitsfounder.However,the year 1856 saw it become acity followinga popular vote.Decades later,in 1863,it beat out other contenders like Milwaukee,Dodgeville,and RacineaselectionforWisconsin's permanent state capital.City leaders believed their proximitytothe University of Wisconsin-Madisongave them an edgein fosteringa robust and diverse economy. In the late 19th century, Madison experienced rapid growth due to its prime location for trade and commerce. The city’s population doubled between 1870 and 1880, with many new businesses opening along the Isthmus – the narrow strip of land between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. The construction of a railroad line connecting Madison to Milwaukee further fueled this growth. The early 20th century saw significant developments in education, transportation, and industry in Madison. In 1917, the University of Wisconsin-Madison became one of the first universities in the country to offer degrees in chemical engineering. This helped establish Madison as a center for scientific research and innovation. During World War II, Madison played a crucial role in producing war materials such as tanks at its Nash Motors plant. Following the war, there was another wave of population growth as returning soldiers settled down with their families here. Madison’s political landscape also underwent significant changes during this time. In response to growing civil rights movements across America, activists organized numerous protests against racial discrimination in housing policies that excluded people based on race or ethnicity from certain neighborhoods.This sparked discussions about desegregationand fair housing laws.In addition,certain groups advocatedforwomen'srights,promoting equalpayandopportunitiesat work.As these grassroots efforts gained momentum,the city elected its first female mayor,Iris Kellogg,in1973.From then on,Madison has continuously promoted gender equality by electing women leaders throughout local government positions like mayors,school board members,and alderpersons (city council members). Throughout the latter half of the 20th century,Madison continuedto grow both economicallyand culturally.The introductionof major technology companieslike IBM,NCR,and Epic Systems brought thousands off high-paying jobs intothe area,further bolsteringits reputationasaninnovative and progressive city. In the 1970s, Madison also became a hub for alternative music with the emergence of local bands like Violent Femmes and Garbage. In recent years, Madison has continued to thrive as a center for education, technology, and healthcare. The University of Wisconsin-Madison remains one of the top public universities in the country, attracting students from all over the world. The city is home to numerous healthcare facilities such as UW Health Hospitals and Clinics and Meriter Hospital – providing quality care to its residents. Madison’s diverse population has also contributed to its vibrant culture. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year that celebrate different ethnicities and cultures, including Fete de Marquette (French heritage), La Fête De L’Alliance Francaise (Francophone cultures), Fiesta Hispana (Hispanic heritage), among others. Today,Madison standsasoneofthe most livable citiesinAmerica.Itsrich historyand cultural diversityhave createda unique blendthat continuesattractingnewresidentsfromallwalksoflife.Thecity'sprogressive values have earned it various accolades both nationallyand globally,suchas being named one ofthe greenest,and bestcitiesforyoung professionals byseveral publications.Residents continuefightingto maintain theirwell-preserved landscapes,makingit an idealplaceforoutdoor activitieslikeparks,hiking trails,and lake recreation.This lovefor naturehasalsotranslated into strongenvironmental policieswith efforts aimed at conserving natural resources,reducingcarbon emissions,and promoting sustainability. In conclusion,Madison is a city whose story spans centuries.From its early beginnings as Native American land,to becominga bustling state capital,itshistoryis richand multifaceted.Madison's resiliencecan be seeninitsabilityto adaptto changing timeswhile maintainingitsunique identity.Incorporatingdiversecultures,economicdevelopment,growth,andprogressive valueshas made Madison a model city that continues to inspire and attract people from all over the world.

Madison, Wisconsin has a rich and diverse history that spans over two centuries. The land where Madison now stands was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ho-Chunk, Menominee, and Potawatomi peoples. In 1829, James Duane Doty, a former federal judge and land speculator from New York, purchased large tracts of land on Lake Mendota with the intention of creating a new territorial capital for the Wisconsin Territory. He named the city after President James Madison and began surveying lots in 1836. The first permanent settlement in Madison was established by Ebenezer Brigham in 1837. More settlers arrived soon after to take advantage of the fertile soil and abundant water resources. In 1848, when Wisconsin achieved statehood, Madison was chosen as its capital due to its central location within the state. During this time period, Madison saw rapid growth as it became an important center for agriculture and trade. The University of Wisconsin-Madison was also founded in 1848 as a result of increasing demand for higher education in the region. In the late 19th century, industries such as lumber mills and breweries were established in Madison. This brought an influx of immigrants to the city from Germany and Scandinavia who helped shape its cultural diversity. In addition to economic growth during this time period came social progressivism. Women's suffrage movements gained momentum in Madison with prominent figures such as Belle Case La Follette leading campaigns for women's right to vote. The early 20th century saw continued development of industry in areas such as printing and publishing which led to further population growth. However, like many cities across America at this time period,the Great Depression had profound effects on Madison's economy causing high unemployment rates until World War II spurred production once again. Post-war years brought changes both economically and socially to Madison; urban renewal projects transformed older neighborhoods while civil rights movements emerged. The University of Wisconsin-Madison became a hotbed for student activism during the 1960s and 1970s, with protests against the Vietnam War and for civil rights. In recent years, Madison has become known as a hub for technology and innovation. Companies such as Epic Systems Corporation, a leading electronic medical records software company, have their headquarters in Madison. Today, Madison is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in America due to its high quality of life, strong economy, and vibrant cultural scene. It continues to be a center for education and research with the University of Wisconsin-Madison being one of the top public universities in the country. Overall, throughout its history Madison has been shaped by its diverse population and progressive values. It remains an important city within Wisconsin and continues to attract people from all over with its unique blend of natural beauty, thriving economy, and innovative spirit.

Crest Pontoons is a family-owned and operated business that has been producing high-quality pontoons since 1957. The company was founded in Madison, Wisconsin by brothers Dave and Joe Gillingham, who shared a passion for boating and desired to create the perfect pontoon boat. The history of Crest Pontoons begins with the Gillingham brothers' love for water sports. They were avid boaters themselves, but they found traditional boats lacking in comfort and stability. They wanted to design a vessel that would provide an enjoyable experience for all passengers, whether they were fishing or simply cruising on the lake. In 1955, while working at their father's machine shop in Madison, Dave and Joe came up with the idea of building their own pontoon boat. With their combined skills in engineering and metal fabrication, they designed a unique pontoon that featured multiple aluminum tubes welded together to form a stable platform. After two years of experimenting with different designs and materials, the Gillingham brothers launched Crest Pontoon Boats in 1957. Their first model was named “Crestliner”, which later became known as “Crest”. It quickly gained popularity among local fishermen due to its durability and spaciousness. With growing demand for their pontoons from fellow Wisconsinites, Dave and Joe decided to expand production by constructing larger facilities near Lake Mendota on Stoughton Road in Madison. This new location allowed them to increase production while still being close enough to test out each boat personally on nearby lakes. Throughout the next decade, Crest continued to innovate its pontoons using advanced engineering techniques such as welding instead of riveting – making them stronger yet lighter than ever before. In addition to this technical innovation, Crest also focused on incorporating luxurious features into their models like plush seating options and sound systems. By the late 1960s, Crest had become one of Wisconsin’s leading producers of recreational boats. The company was not only recognized for its top-notch manufacturing but also for its exceptional customer service – a trait that has remained a cornerstone of Crest Pontoons to this day. In the 1970s, Crest experienced significant growth and expanded its market beyond Wisconsin by attending boat shows across the country. This exposure helped raise their profile and establish them as one of the top pontoon manufacturers in the United States. The 1980s brought more changes to Crest Pontoons. In 1983, Dave's son Steve Gillingham joined the family business as President, bringing fresh ideas and new perspectives to continue building on his father’s legacy. Under Steve's leadership, Crest introduced an array of innovative features such as oversized pontoons, power steering systems, and custom-engineered aluminum decking. Crest continued to thrive in the 1990s despite economic downturns in the boating industry. In response to changing consumer demands for more luxurious options on their pontoons, they launched their first “Luxury Series” models with amenities like wet bars and refrigerators. As technology advanced into the new millennium, Crest stayed ahead of trends by incorporating modern conveniences such as GPS navigation systems and digital displays into their boats. They also began using computer-aided design (CAD) software to improve efficiency in production while maintaining high-quality standards. Today, under Steve’s son Joe Gillingham’s leadership as President since 2011,Crest is still headquartered just outside Madison near Baraboo where all designs are created from scratch before being sent off for production at multiple facilities throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota. Crest continues to be at the forefront of innovation within the pontoon industry with its latest series featuring patent-pending bow seating arrangements – providing even greater comfort for passengers up front while underway or anchored out enjoying a sunset evening cruise on a lake somewhere around Wisconsin or anywhere else in America you may find yourself vacationing! In conclusion, Crest Pontoons has a rich history in Madison, Wisconsin. From its humble beginnings as a small family business to becoming one of the top pontoon manufacturers in the country, Crest has consistently prioritized quality and customer satisfaction. Their commitment to innovation and luxurious features has kept them at the forefront of the industry for over six decades. As they continue to evolve with new technologies and changing consumer demands, we can expect that Crest Pontoons will remain a premier choice for boaters across America for years to come.

Crest Pontoons, also known as Crest Marine, is a leading manufacturer of high-quality pontoon boats. Founded in 1957 by seven friends who shared a love for boating, the company has grown to become one of the most reputable and innovative brands in the marine industry. From its humble beginnings in Owosso, Michigan, Crest Pontoons has expanded its operations to include multiple manufacturing facilities and dealerships across the United States. The company's success can be attributed to its commitment to providing exceptional products that cater to the evolving needs of boat enthusiasts. One of Crest Pontoons' defining features is their unique construction process. Unlike most pontoon manufacturers who use traditional welding techniques, Crest utilizes an advanced method called “UniWeld.” This proprietary technique involves bonding two aluminum panels together with a special adhesive material before welding them together. This creates seamless welds that are stronger and more durable than traditional methods. The result is a sturdy yet lightweight structure that offers superior performance on the water. These pontoons have excellent buoyancy and stability, making them ideal for various activities such as cruising, fishing, watersports or simply relaxing on the water. In addition to their cutting-edge construction process, Crest Pontoons also stands out for its attention to detail and customization options. Customers have the ability to select from a wide range of floor plans and layouts when purchasing their boat. They can choose from different seating arrangements including benches or luxurious captain's chairs with armrests and swivel bases. Moreover, customers can personalize their pontoons with various flooring options such as durable vinyl or plush carpeting in different colors and patterns. Additionally, they have numerous color choices for upholstery materials ranging from classic neutrals to vibrant hues like lime green or hot pink. Apart from customizing interior features like furniture and flooring materials/colors; customers can also add optional features such as bimini tops (canopies), LED lighting packages, ski tow bars, and upgraded sound systems. The possibilities are endless with Crest Pontoons. Furthermore, Crest takes pride in its use of high-quality materials in every aspect of their boats' construction. From the marine-grade aluminum tubes to the stainless steel hardware, no detail is overlooked when it comes to the integrity and longevity of their products. Crest Pontoons also boasts a state-of-the-art manufacturing process that combines advanced technology with skilled craftsmanship. Every boat undergoes a rigorous quality control inspection before leaving the factory to ensure that it meets the company's high standards. Beyond their top-notch construction and customization options, Crest Pontoons offers an unparalleled boating experience for customers through its innovative features. For instance, many models come equipped with Comfort Plus seats which feature ergonomic design elements such as lumbar support and plush cushioning for maximum comfort on long days out on the water. Additionally, some models have incorporated cutting-edge technology like Simrad navigation systems or JL Audio sound systems. These features enhance safety and convenience while adding luxury to any boating excursion. Another unique feature offered by Crest Pontoons is their patented “Waveglider” system. This revolutionary hull design consists of three precisely engineered pontoons instead of two traditional ones found on most pontoon boats. The third pontoon acts as a center tube allowing for increased buoyancy resulting in improved stability even in rough waters. Moreover, this system also reduces drag which means less fuel consumption compared to other pontoons in its class. Overall this results in smoother handling and better performance making Waveglider one of Crest's most sought-after features amongst avid boaters. Aside from providing exceptional products,Crest Marine prides itself on delivering excellent customer service through its extensive network of dealerships across North America.They offer comprehensive warranties backed by renowned manufacturers including Mercury Marine engines.Another way they go above-and-beyond is by offering educational opportunities such as instructional videos covering topics like docking, anchoring and general boating safety. Crest Pontoons also values the importance of preserving our waterways for future generations to enjoy. Their commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in their production processes as well as support for organizations that promote clean water initiatives. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons has established itself as a leader in the marine industry through its dedication to innovation, quality craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service. With their advanced construction techniques, customization options, cutting-edge features and commitment to sustainable practices; it's no wonder they have earned a loyal following among boaters worldwide. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the lake or an exhilarating adventure on the open waters,Crest Pontoons has something for everyone.