Pantera Boats

Pantera Boats has long been a symbol of luxury and performance in the powerboat industry. Known for their sleek V-bottom designs and advanced composite technology, Pantera powerboats range from 24 to 38 feet in length. Under new ownership by Cam Heaps, founder of Carbon Marine, the brand is set for a remarkable rebirth with both classic and updated models.

The brand is not just about stunning designs; it’s also about high-end fit and finish. Pantera Boats are built to offer exceptional performance and efficiency, making them a top choice among boating enthusiasts. Their focus on using carbon fiber and other advanced materials ensures durability and superior performance on the water.

The Pantera lineup includes models with luxury features, aligning with their reputation for craftsmanship and interior design excellence. Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the brand, exploring Pantera Boats' offerings promises to be a captivating experience.

Key Takeaways

• Pantera Boats offers performance and luxury in powerboats ranging from 24 to 38 feet.
• Under new ownership, the brand is reviving with classic and updated models.
• High-end fit and finish and advanced materials ensure top performance and quality.

Pantera’s Legacy and Brand Evolution

Pantera Boats has a rich history rooted in high-performance boating and innovation. Recently, the brand has undergone significant changes, paving the way for a modern revival under new leadership.

The History of Pantera Boats

Pantera Boats was founded over four decades ago and quickly gained a reputation for its high-performance boats that could tackle rough waters. Originally based in Miami's famous Thunderboat Row, the company became known for its durability and speed. The Nunez family, founders of the brand, built a loyal following among boating enthusiasts. Their boats were often seen in racing circuits, contributing to their legacy and making the Pantera name synonymous with power and reliability.

The Acquisition by Carbon Marine

In 2023, Carbon Marine—led by Cam Heaps—acquired Pantera Boats. Heaps is known for his work in developing carbon fiber boats, and he saw an opportunity to revive Pantera with modern materials and techniques. Carbon Marine introduced the world’s first 100% carbon fiber powerboat hull at the Miami International Boat Show in 2016, showcasing their innovative capabilities. Jeff Howat, now a leading figure in the company, announced that they aim to respect Pantera's legacy while introducing technological advantages to enhance performance and sustainability.

Trademark and Intellectual Property

The acquisition included not just the physical assets of Pantera Boats but also their trademarks and intellectual property. This ensures that the brand's legacy remains intact and is legally protected under its new ownership. As the Successor-in-Title, Carbon Marine holds exclusive rights to Pantera’s branding and historical designs. This offers a stable platform for future growth and innovation, ensuring that the brand can evolve without losing its heritage. The focus on preserving intellectual property is aligned with their goal of maintaining the quality and reputation that Pantera has built over the years.

Design and Construction Excellence

Pantera Boats are renowned for their state-of-the-art design and construction. These boats utilize race-proven hulls, pre-preg carbon, and advanced aerospace techniques to create superior performance and durability.

Race-Proven Pantera Hulls

The hulls of Pantera Boats are built for performance. These race-proven Pantera hulls have a legacy of success in competitive boating. Each hull is engineered to handle extreme speeds and tough conditions. The design focuses on stability and control, which is crucial for both competitive racing and casual use. Customers have praised the hulls for their smooth ride and reliability.

Pre-Preg Carbon and Advanced Composites

Using pre-preg carbon allows Pantera to achieve unmatched strength and lightness. Pre-preg carbon involves carbon fibers that are pre-impregnated with a turnable resin, ensuring consistency and precision in the material. This technique, combined with other advanced composites, enhances the durability and efficiency of the boats. The materials used are not only strong but also lightweight, resulting in better fuel efficiency and overall performance.

Infusion of Aerospace Construction Techniques

Pantera Boats integrate aerospace construction techniques into their build process. These methods, such as infusion and laminate production, ensure that the boats are built to the highest standards. Aerospace techniques involve precise layering and curing processes, which result in a stronger and more resilient structure. This leads to boats that are not only high-performing but also capable of withstanding harsh marine environments. The incorporation of aerospace technology underscores Pantera's commitment to innovation and quality.

Performance and Efficiency

Pantera Boats are designed to maximize performance and efficiency, making use of modern technology and materials to offer superior powerboats for offshore adventures. Key features include optimized power to weight ratios and impressive handling and cruising speeds.

Optimized Power to Weight Ratio

Pantera Boats excel due to their optimized power to weight ratio. Utilizing carbon fiber construction, these boats are lighter and stronger. This reduces overall weight and enhances performance. The powerboats come equipped with small block Mercury 6.2L engines, providing efficient, powerful thrust without excess weight.

Lower weight not only boosts acceleration but also improves fuel efficiency. The lightweight design affects both outboard engines and the overall structure, pushing Pantera powerboats to be leaders in the offshore category. The combination of advanced materials and modern engine technology leads to unmatched power and efficiency.

Handling and Cruising Speeds

Handling and cruising speeds are pivotal for Pantera Boats. Their hydrodynamic design gives them a competitive edge. Smooth handling is crucial for maneuvering in diverse water conditions, from calm lakes to rough offshore waters.

Pantera powerboats can maintain high cruising speeds without sacrificing stability. This is essential for long-distance travels and offshore racing. The use of space-age materials and refined build designs enable these boats to achieve and sustain fast speeds effortlessly.

With their new ownership, Pantera integrates today's technological advantages, creating sport decks that deliver on performance and efficiency. Reflecting a deep respect for their legacy, these boats are engineered to meet the demands of modern boating enthusiasts.

Models and Specifications

Pantera Boats offers a range of models tailored for different boating needs, focusing on sport series and innovative center console designs. Customization options ensure that each boat meets specific requirements, whether for fishing or leisure.

The Classic Sport Series

The Classic Sport Series from Pantera Boats includes models such as the Pantera Classic and the Classic 24. The Pantera Classic is a 19'6" bass boat designed with a wide front deck and nimble handling. It fits into most garages easily, which is great for young anglers or seasoned fishermen.

Specifications include:

• LOA: 19'6"
• Beam: 90"
• Weight: Lightweight for portability

The Classic 24 offers more space and power, with similar build quality and attention to detail. Functional design and robust construction make this series popular among sport enthusiasts.

Innovative Center Console Designs

Pantera's center console models, such as the Sport 24, emphasize versatility and performance. Built with outboard power and a sturdy hull, these boats excel in both coastal and inshore waters. The center console design allows for 360-degree movement, perfect for fishing and leisure cruising.

Key features include:

• LOA: 24'
• Beam: Broad and stable for better balance
• Technological Advantage: Advanced navigation and fishing tools

These boats provide ample seating and storage, making them suitable for longer trips and various water activities. The combination of design and technology ensures a high-quality boating experience.

Customization Options

Pantera Boats offers extensive customization options to tailor each boat to specific needs. Buyers can choose from different hull colors, interior layouts, and technological upgrades. Options such as customized seating, advanced fish finders, and upgraded sound systems enhance both functionality and comfort.

Customization highlights:

• Models: Available for Classic 28, Classic 36
• Engine Choices: Various outboard options for different speeds and power requirements
• Day Yacht Features: Luxury additions for comfort and style

These options ensure that each Pantera boat meets the unique demands of its owner, whether for hardcore sport fishing or leisurely day yachting.

Craftsmanship and Interior Design

Pantera Boats are known for their high-end fit and finish, with interiors that showcase refined designs and attention to detail. With options such as customer-selected interiors and the use of premium materials, these boats offer a luxurious experience.

Refined Interiors and Upholstery

The interiors of Pantera Boats stand out with their attention to detail and use of premium materials. Upholstery plays a key role, with options like Alcantara and Sileather, which provide a sophisticated look and feel.

This focus on detail extends to elements like teak decks and mahogany trims, adding a touch of classic elegance. The boats often feature Nardi steering wheels, which are a nod to high craftsmanship and luxurious automotive design. Customer-selected interiors ensure that each boat is unique and caters to specific tastes and preferences. These bespoke choices create a personalized boating experience that is both stylish and functional.

Ultimate Comfort with Ullman Dynamics

Comfort is paramount in Pantera Boats, and this is achieved through the integration of Ullman Dynamics seating. These seats are designed to provide ultimate comfort and support, especially in rough waters. By minimizing impact and enhancing shock absorption, the seating helps reduce fatigue.

The ergonomic design of Ullman Dynamics seats ensures that passengers are comfortable for long periods. This seating also features durable materials that can withstand harsh marine environments while maintaining an elegant look.

The collaboration with Ullman Dynamics highlights Pantera Boats' commitment to blending luxury with performance, ensuring that every journey is smooth and enjoyable. This thoughtful approach to seating design underscores the brand's dedication to unrivaled craftsmanship and superior boating experiences.

Technological Innovations and Partnerships

Pantera Boats, under new leadership, is revitalizing its legacy with groundbreaking technologies and key industry partnerships. These advancements focus on performance, craftsmanship, and collaborative innovation.

Collaboration with Industry Leaders

Pantera Boats has partnered with Jaguar Powerboats, leveraging their race-proven production experience. Jaguar's history of world championship victories ensures robust boat construction. This partnership enhances Pantera's product quality, combining decades of expertise with state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques.

Cam Heaps, founder of Carbon Marine, Inc., leads Pantera Boats Inc. His vision includes introducing 100% carbon fiber hulls. Known for his work on the world's first carbon fiber exposed powerboat hull, Heaps' commitment to using advanced materials is central to Pantera's rebirth.

Unriehl Performance and Marine Unlimited provide additional expertise in powerboat racing, further elevating Pantera's performance standards. These collaborations underscore Pantera's commitment to excellence and innovation.

Modern Marine Technologies

Pantera Boats incorporates various modern technologies to enhance boat performance and user experience. They utilize Mercury Racing outboard engines and steerndrive units, ensuring powerful and reliable propulsion systems.

Innovative elements like Lumitec Lighting for advanced illumination and synthetic teak decking for durability and aesthetics are also featured. The emphasis on high-quality materials extends to the stern and cockpit areas, ensuring comfort and resilience in challenging conditions.

Additionally, Pantera is exploring electric vehicle (EV) boat technologies, aiming to improve battery range and efficiency. These technologic strides position Pantera at the forefront of marine innovation, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern advancements.

Pantera Boats in the Boating Community

Pantera Boats has been making waves in the boating community with its presence at major boat shows and active engagement on social media. Their efforts have solidified their position among top performance boat brands.

Presence at Boat Shows

Pantera Boats has made notable appearances at significant events like the Miami International Boat Show. Here, they showcased their innovative carbon fiber powerboat hull, first introduced in 2016.

Their eye-catching designs and advanced materials attract many boating enthusiasts. Lakes such as Lake of the Ozarks have also seen Pantera Boats showcased. Whether in Ontario or South Florida, these events offer a perfect platform for Pantera to display their luxury and performance boats.

Social Media and Customer Engagement

On social media platforms, Pantera Boats engages actively with their community. Their official Facebook page boasts over 2,200 likes, providing updates and engaging content.

Engaging directly with customers, they share stories and updates about their latest models. Fans from Raleigh, New Jersey, and other regions often interact with Pantera, sharing their experiences. This engagement helps build a loyal customer base and connects boating enthusiasts worldwide with the brand's developments.

Pantera’s Marketplace and Distribution

Pantera Boats has a diverse and strategic approach to its marketplace and distribution. They emphasize both national and international reach, as well as a strong network of dealers alongside direct sales methods, reflecting their commitment to accessibility and market growth.

National and International Reach

Pantera Boats has a significant presence across the United States and Canada, benefiting from their robust manufacturing capabilities. They have expanded their reach by incorporating advanced materials like carbon fiber for enhanced performance. They participate in renowned boat shows, such as the Miami International Boat Show, where their innovative designs and commitment to quality receive substantial attention.

Their new ownership under Carbon Marine leverages existing international networks. This helps Pantera Boats reach markets beyond North America. Locations in Florida serve as key distribution hubs, ensuring efficient delivery and customer support across various regions.

Dealer Network and Direct Sales

Pantera Boats utilizes a dual strategy of a dealer network and direct sales to connect with customers. Their well-established dealer network ensures widespread availability of models, allowing customers to experience the boats first-hand. Dealers provide essential services such as maintenance, customization, and after-sales support, enhancing customer satisfaction.

Additionally, Pantera offers direct sales through their website, enabling a broader market presence. This approach allows direct interaction with the company, ensuring personalized service and quicker response times for inquiries and orders. This method complements their dealer network, ensuring that customers have multiple avenues to purchase and maintain their Pantera boats.

Through these strategies, Pantera Boats maintains a robust and flexible marketplace presence, ensuring their high-performance boats are accessible to enthusiasts around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pantera Boats have a rich history and specific models that enthusiasts often inquire about. Information is available on the brand's origins, availability, and specifications.

What is the history of Pantera Boats?

Pantera Boats was originally built by the Nunez family. Cam Heaps, founder of Carbon Marine Inc., now leads the company, preserving its heritage and advancing its technology.

How can one find Pantera Boats available for sale by owners?

Interested buyers can explore forums like BBC Boards for listings or discussions about Pantera Boats available for sale by their owners.

Are there any 24 ft Pantera boats available on the market?

There is no specific mention of a 24 ft Pantera boat in the current information. For detailed listings and availability, visiting Pantera Boats’ official website is recommended.

What is the recorded top speed of the Pantera 28 model?

Details on the Pantera 28 model's top speed are not provided in the available information. For technical specifications, including speed, it is best to refer to specialized boating resources.

Who was the founder of Pantera Boats?

Pantera Boats was founded by the Nunez family. The company is now managed by Cam Heaps, who is well-known for his work with Carbon Marine Inc.

Is the Pantera Boats company still operational today?

Yes, Pantera Boats continues to operate under new ownership. They focus on preserving the brand's legacy while incorporating modern advancements, as seen in their new carbon fiber designs introduced in recent years. For more details, check out Speed on the Water.