Crownline Boats, an American manufacturer of sport, deck and cruiser boats headquartered in West Frankfort, Ill., announced that is has been acquired by Whisper Marine LLC.

This is Whisper Marine’s second acquisition in six months, following the December 2025 purchase of Qwest Pontoons. The company says it expands Whisper Marine’s portfolio into a new category of recreational boating.

“Crownline is one of the most respected names in American boatbuilding, and we are excited to carry it forward,” says Dave Hatley, CEO of Whisper USA. “The team in West Frankfort has built something special over 35 years, and we plan to invest in its continued growth as Whisper Marine adds sport, deck and cruiser boats to its portfolio.”

Whisper Marine is part of Whisper USA LLC, an American manufacturer of outdoor lifestyle products founded and led by Hatley. Headquartered in Johnson City, Tenn., Whisper USA designs and manufactures hot tubs, swim spas, cold plunges, luxury golf carts, utility terrain vehicles and boats at facilities in Tennessee, Michigan and now Illinois. 

Crownline has delivered more than 90,000 boats to dealers and customers worldwide. Whisper Marine plans to invest in product innovation and expanded capacity at the Southern Illinois facility, and to grow the Crownline dealer network.

The Crownline acquisition is part of a multi-year strategy to build a portfolio of American-made marine brands serving distinct segments of the recreational boating market.