EQ Marine

seahooked":12lgoz9j said:
Didn't we have this same conversation just a few months ago??
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And we still do not know the details. I think it is premature to be bashing C-Dory.

Lets give Les time to fill in any details he would like to and for a spokesman for C-Dory to do the same. If neither wants to, just accept it without jumping to unfounded conclusions. Lets enjoy our boats and quit picking on C-Dory unless you know the details.

I have met Les once and believe him to be an honorable man and would not hesitate to do business with him. I hope to get that chance, but it will not be with a C-Dory because I already have one.
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Dave dlt.gif
 
oldgrowth":2uisy7t2 said:
seahooked":2uisy7t2 said:
Didn't we have this same conversation just a few months ago??
Click to expand...

And we still do not know the details. I think it is premature to be bashing C-Dory.

Lets give Les time to fill in any details he would like to and for a spokesman for C-Dory to do the same. If neither wants to, just accept it without jumping to unfounded conclusions. Lets enjoy our boats and quit picking on C-Dory unless you know the details.

I have met Les once and believe him to be an honorable man and would not hesitate to do business with him. I hope to get that chance, but it will not be with a C-Dory because I already have one.


Dave, you are very right and I agree. However, the Factory knew how we all felt about EQ Marine last week when we were at their great party and not a word was said. Would have been nice for them to be forthcoming about a dealer we all, at least many of us, respect. If I'd have known it was an issue, or we all did, someone would have asked the question directly. Les and Dusty cancelled out because of the WX otherwise we'd have had it from Les directly, I'm sure.

Have never bought a boat or had one rigged from them but if you read Les' posts, I'm sure you'd agree, they're top notch with much thought and knowledge behind them!

Les may not feel the need to comment, nor the Factory and I respect that too but I'm sure you and all are curious as to what happened. I recall talking to the Cutter folks at the Langford gathering in '05 when Jeff Messmer was there and still worked for C-Dory that they (Cutter) were unhappy that C-Dory would not allot them more boats to sell. Now, I hear that they weren't selling enough boats. Who to believe? :?:

WETSU!

charlie
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Dave dlt.gif
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Maybe Les dumped c-dory? That would be ironic. Anyone notice the 22 Arima on EQ's site that's laid out similar to the C-dory? Maybe a stick in the eye for c-dory so to speak.

Anyway, does this mean for those of us that had EQ rig our boats that we can list that as a feature if we ever sell? Maybe I have a classic now? :lol:

Well, life goes on.
 
chromer":18tuja33 said:
I am so fortunate to have an EQ rigged dory. If anything, EQ is an icon to the NW C-Dory scene and should be kept no matter what their volume is. If any of he "TG" prospects or "SR" are reading this, consider EQ for your high-end rigging, you will be delighted with their work. Many of the really cool boats people see around here and on this site are EQ's handywork, and it sells more boats for ANY dealer.
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Les is (re-)rigging my boat as we speak, and I am sure he will be willing to rig other C-Dories as well. He just made it clear to me, though, that work like mine would have to be worked in around what he needs to do for the Rosboroughs, etc. he sells. Also, his standards are so high he is very picky about who he hires to help him, so there is a labor constraint as well.

So, I agree that having an EQ-rigged boat is a definite selling point (not to mention enhancing pride of ownership.)

Warren
 
Here on the East Coast, Cutter Marine is still listed as a C-Dory dealer although Cutter has dropped them from Cutter's web site.

I bought from Cutter and have enjoyed their customer service like EQ people have. My CD-22 is presently stored there and they will service it when needed.

Sail Annapolis has been introduced as the new local C-Dory dealer. I took a ride by their place last November. Located in Easton section of Annapolis, the streets are so narrow I didn't like to drive my Honda Ridgeline thru them, never mind pulling a trailer. This from a guy who owned/drove 18 wheelers for 10 years (5 around metro NYC).

Sail Annapolis is new to powerboating, mostly sailboats as the name implies. I saw a CD-25 near the dock but couldn't find any parking to stop and inquire. Building is similar to a 2 story Economy Lodge with multiple business renting space. All parking spaces were taken around 10:00am midweek.

They are not a Honda dealer either. I guess I'll have to take any warranty work on the boat to NC or Fla.

Bottom line- C-Dory is losing good dealers and replacing them with question marks.

Allan
 
This is copied from an email I recieved last night from Ricardo;

(quote)"Hopefully the C-Brats will understand that I value all of our customers and most certainly our loyal dealers. I tried in the past few months of my involvement to keep EQ as a dealer. I have tried diligently to keep EQ as a dealer and continue business with Les and Kathy.

Unfortunately due to "business" issues Les and Kathy have determined that they are too busy with their other projects to include C-Dory boats in their product mix. I do not know if you have ever been to their store but I understand and respect thier position and decision.

They have a successful business based upon a destination, "mom and pop" (definition by Les)
store. I am personally happy to have this type of dealer and enjoy the opportunity to travel to conduct business during the boating season. Unfortunately Les has determined that they do not have the infrastructure to support any growth business.

So for the time being EQ has elected to withdraw as a stocking C-Dory dealer. I have offered to Les an number of alternatives that would allow for the continuance of him and Kathy as a C-dory team member. In fact, I sincerely offered that I would campaign that Les be engaged as a consultant and continuing agent on behalf of C-Dory since he has a passion for the boats and in my opinion definitely knows the issues overall with the boats and the company.

Hopefully the C-Brats will understand that this is the "business" side of C-Dory and our commitment to our customer base remains as strong and stronger than ever. Thank you."(unquote)


This is one side of the story, maybe someone can add to it so we can get "the rest of the story".
 
C-Hawk":14a0d345 said:
This is copied from an email I recieved last night from Ricardo;

(quote)"Hopefully the C-Brats will understand that I value all of our customers and most certainly our loyal dealers. I tried in the past few months of my involvement to keep EQ as a dealer. I have tried diligently to keep EQ as a dealer and continue business with Les and Kathy.

Unfortunately due to "business" issues Les and Kathy have determined that they are too busy with their other projects to include C-Dory boats in their product mix. I do not know if you have ever been to their store but I understand and respect thier position and decision.

They have a successful business based upon a destination, "mom and pop" (definition by Les)
store. I am personally happy to have this type of dealer and enjoy the opportunity to travel to conduct business during the boating season. Unfortunately Les has determined that they do not have the infrastructure to support any growth business.

So for the time being EQ has elected to withdraw as a stocking C-Dory dealer. I have offered to Les an number of alternatives that would allow for the continuance of him and Kathy as a C-dory team member. In fact, I sincerely offered that I would campaign that Les be engaged as a consultant and continuing agent on behalf of C-Dory since he has a passion for the boats and in my opinion definitely knows the issues overall with the boats and the company.

Hopefully the C-Brats will understand that this is the "business" side of C-Dory and our commitment to our customer base remains as strong and stronger than ever. Thank you."(unquote)


This is one side of the story, maybe someone can add to it so we can get "the rest of the story".
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Red coloring in the mesage above done by Sea Wolf for emphasis.


Reading though and thinking about the polite message above, I would conclude that the issue was wheather or not EQ would accept the number of boats that the factory determined were the dealer's (EQ's) quota.

We've heard of this issue before.

I guess the factory believes it is their right to force dealers to accept inventory by stocking boats whether or not they have customers for them.

A small dealership, "mom and pop" or otherwise, would logically want to keep only a very small inventory or demonstrators on hand, and order addiional boats on demand once customers are found.

I guess their business models weren't compatible.

I also imagine over the past few years there were some internal issues beeen EQ and the factory over QC and warranty matters, considering Les's very high standards.

Joe. :disgust

ON EDIT:I removed a reference to cutter Marine that was in the original post of mine above after receiving information that proved the reference to be erroneous. Thanks and apologies to all those concerned.
 
I get confused reading this thread and others like it. About a year ago I discovered the C-dory and the C-Brat site and read everything I could. The positive passion of the C-Brat members was a large part of the reason I bought a 255 TomCat. Heck, I was so convinced I also bought a 16' Cruiser. I got to put about 40 hours on the TomCat before the boating season ended and had a blast and no problems with the boat. I just picked up the 16 and its killing me their is ice on the Mississippi where I am. Then I read threads like this and wonder if I bought two pieces of S*&^. Right now, I am going to remain a "half glass full" kind of guy and hope like hell C-Dory remains successful. Maybe I can convince my wife to move the TomCat to Chicago (Lake Michigan); use the 16 to go "lake hopping" and get another C-Dory for the Mississippi (everyone seems to LOVE the 22) ;-)
 
Jeanie P":35wtni0s said:
Here on the East Coast, Cutter Marine is still listed as a C-Dory dealer although Cutter has dropped them from Cutter's web site.

I bought from Cutter and have enjoyed their customer service like EQ people have. My CD-22 is presently stored there and they will service it when needed.

Sail Annapolis has been introduced as the new local C-Dory dealer. I took a ride by their place last November. Located in Easton section of Annapolis, the streets are so narrow I didn't like to drive my Honda Ridgeline thru them, never mind pulling a trailer. This from a guy who owned/drove 18 wheelers for 10 years (5 around metro NYC).

Sail Annapolis is new to powerboating, mostly sailboats as the name implies. I saw a CD-25 near the dock but couldn't find any parking to stop and inquire. Building is similar to a 2 story Economy Lodge with multiple business renting space. All parking spaces were taken around 10:00am midweek.

They are not a Honda dealer either. I guess I'll have to take any warranty work on the boat to NC or Fla.

Bottom line- C-Dory is losing good dealers and replacing them with question marks.

Allan
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Allan:

I bought my first cd from Cutter and I've ordered a second one through Sail Annapolis. I can assure you that the principals at both dealers are high quality people with a thorough knowledge of cdorys and a deep commitment to providing excellent service. Sail Annapolis does not configure its boats in the same location as its office which may help to explain your comments about their location. I bought a sailboat from Sail Annapolis a few years ago. Their riggers were absolutely first class and I'm in no doubt that my new cd will be delivered expertly rigged according to my detailed specs. Otherwise I wouldn't even consider buying through them. Also, you may not be aware that there are different levels of Honda dealers, and SA is indeed Honda accredited. Based on my experience to date, I'd guess that SA will turn out to be an outstanding cdory dealer for the Chesapeake region.

Roy
 
boodalu":w3f6te9k said:
I get confused reading this thread and others like it. About a year ago I discovered the C-dory and the C-Brat site and read everything I could. The positive passion of the C-Brat members was a large part of the reason I bought a 255 TomCat. Heck, I was so convinced I also bought a 16' Cruiser. I got to put about 40 hours on the TomCat before the boating season ended and had a blast and no problems with the boat. I just picked up the 16 and its killing me their is ice on the Mississippi where I am. Then I read threads like this and wonder if I bought two pieces of S*&^. Right now, I am going to remain a "half glass full" kind of guy and hope like hell C-Dory remains successful. Maybe I can convince my wife to move the TomCat to Chicago (Lake Michigan); use the 16 to go "lake hopping" and get another C-Dory for the Mississippi (everyone seems to LOVE the 22) ;-)
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Boodalu– I can assure you your glass is full. You bought two great boats. Like all products, the people that are unhappy with some aspect of that product will be the most vocal ones. Now that does not mean the vocal unhappy ones don't have legitimate complaints, but for every out there, there are many more that are happy with the boat and just remain silent. Go out and enjoy your boats and welcome to the ever growing group of C-Dory owners that have more than one model.
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Dave dlt.gif
 
I am sorry if my post above has caused anyone distress.

The simple reason some of us are negative about this development with EQ and several other concerns over the past few years, is that we have very high expectations for the C-Dory factory, ownership, and management.

This is because of our admiration and love for these boats.

Our C-Brat community simply wants the best from the producer of the boats that are our center of focus.

Simply put, it's disappointing to see some of these decisions and practices that do not make sense to us.

Perhaps it's disturbing to read some of these discussions, but the alternative of saying nothing will not help to affect the changes we would like to see made.

Some may say that some of this is none of our business, but its impossible for some of us to sit by passively and let things go wherever they will.

Respectfully,

Joe. :thup
 
Boodalu,
I don't believe that I've ever said that I'm unhappy with my C-Dory. This is my second one (had a 16' before). I'm just disappointed that for whatever reason that EQ Marine is no longer a C-Dory dealer. They have been real cheerleaders for C-Dory as well as being excellent riggers of C-Dory boats. (Some folks have had legitimate problems with their C-Dorys, but the C-Dory factory has stepped up to the plate and made them good).

All this being said, enjoy your C-Dory, I'm sure it will take you on many venturesome cruises.....after all look at all the miles that El and Bill, Jim and Joan, and many others have logged on their C-Dorys! :smile

(Someone did mention something about the Arima boat at EQ Marine.....FYI, they have been an Arima boat dealer for years. If I'm not mistaken, there have been folks that came into EQ Marine looking to buy an Arima and decided a C-Dory better fit their needs).
 
Hey guys, back up and take a deep breath. I'm having a problem
with this shoot first mentality. Especially when the guys with all these guns are shooting in the dark. Let the story.....accurate information,
at least come to light before the execution begins.

Thanks. Ok, I'm driving a 2004 CD Cruiser which I picked up from
Les in June of 2004. I purchased this boat in large part because of
Les, his reputation, and in talking to him over the course of a couple
of SBS's. Point being that Les was a major factor in my buying
another CD at that time. Note, I had previously owned an '85, 22'
Angler and a '91 22' Cruiser. Les did the rigging,, which was
considerable, as it was well loaded. I encountered a few glitches in the final product, some by EQ and some by C-Dory. The
factory responded much quicker than Les did to to the problems
I had encountered, for whatever reason. Perhaps, the fact that I
was 2,500 miles away entered into that. Les mentioned at that time
that he was seriously considering dropping the C-Dory boats.
Obviously, he didn't at that time, but the thought was apparently
there, however fleeting the moment may have been.

Nobody is perfect.......except for my lovely wife, of course,
and neither I nor you probably know what or who, is more, or less
to account for EQ and C-Dory going separate ways.

Change is a constant, and that's just a fact of life. It doesn't
change my perception of the C-Dory product line a bit, as I do
consider C-Dory a premier name with a fine selection of great
boats. I qualify this, however, to exclude the layout/configuration
of the cabin/helm on the 29' Venture, which needs some serious
tweaking.

I can't speak for the rigging of most other C-Dory dealers from
personal experience and would not pretend to do so. With one
exception. My fishing buddy had a 2007, 255 Tomcat rigged by M M
and I can unequivocally say that it was a beautiful job, layout to execution, and after a year of solid use has not had a single
hiccup to be attended to.

Les and Kathy are super folks and run a great business and I wish
them the absolute best in business and in health. I wish the exact
same to C-Dory and its folks as well.

Have great day and terrific year............all!
 
I saw this thread early this morning and was not able to post until now. I've been thinking all day about a possible solution and though I have not talked to either Les or C-Dory about this, Seems Ricardo has also had this thought, take Les on as a senior consultant to the new C-Dory dealerships.
In fact, I sincerely offered that I would campaign that Les be engaged as a consultant and continuing agent on behalf of C-Dory since he has a passion for the boats and in my opinion definitely knows the issues overall with the boats and the company.
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 posted by Sea Wolf Joe, from an e-mail to him from Ricardo.

Might be a way to keep the service quality up in stratopheric level, commensurate with EQ (and previous C-Dory) standards.

At some point I am going to need some serious C-Dory service and If Less will do the work, I will find a way to get my boat there for him.

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
I did a little snooping around the internet and here is what I found:

"In 2002 Madison Bay Holdings secured a Letter of Intent to acquire Olympic Boats and Skagit Orca Boats. At the same time Madison Bay provided services to C-Dory Marine and secured an equity position in C-Dory. Madison Bay then assigned the rights to acquire Olympic and Skagit Orca and provided ongoing services to increase the revenues of all three companies by securing commercial inventory financing and increased working capital financing. The dealer network was expanded and sales increased over 300% within two years."

For those of you who want to search further, do some investigation into Madison Bay Holdings.
 
You did good Boodalu. Don't worry about all the hyperventilation.
Sometimes things get carried away around here. Most of all don't
worry about Joe pointing that gun around. He's just pissed off cause
he didn't get to the boat show this year.

The guy you need to worry about is Dan, our resident engineer.
He still thinks that propeller pitch is the sticky stuff when you get the
prop too close to a tree.

Ok, I'm heading back into hibernation.
 
Right, Ricardo Ruelas, CEO of Madison Bay Holding (Corporation).

So now we know who REALLY owns C-Dory!

This would go a long way to explain the push to sell more boats and capitalize on the C-Dory reputation, etc.

Thank you, Dr. Bob!

The Puzzle fits!

At least we were right as far as we had progressed.

I won't pursue this further right now, as I guess it disturbs some folks, and it will give me time to think a bit.

Cheers!

Joe. (The Loose Cannon On Board!) :smileo
 
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