History

Our History

40+ Years of Excellence

Building exemplary watercraft has always been the Rabco passion. The company dynasty began in 1976, when Randy Rabe founded Rabco in St. Petersburg, Florida. Randy primarily built performance-oriented Memco boats designed by powerboat legends Don Arronow and Carl Kiekhaefer, and he quickly made a name for his brand. Rabco became one of the first to test outboard motors on the offshore racing circuit.

Rabco again made history in 1987 when it began constructing hull molds of direct fiberglass. These vessels were known for their speed, agility and performance. Rabco was fast becoming an icon in the boating industry, consistently providing a solid boat with a reputation for customer service and affordability. Unfortunately, a financial crisis in the late 1980s meant it was time to pass the company onward.

Captain Joel Dye purchased Rabco from Randy in 1993 and continued the Rabco tradition of bigger and better models. To this day, Joel and his team innovate within the boating industry. Known for his building technique and quality core fabrication, a Rabco boat is recognizable for quality workmanship and care to detail.

Our clients enjoy their Rabco boats at every step of the process; in fact, purchasing a boat direct from Rabco is likely the most personal transaction in the boat manufacturing business. Full transparency is maintained throughout the construction process, complete with an open-door policy. Enjoy being part of the manufacture? Stop in and check out the work as it progresses. We’ll even send you pictures and time-lapse videos throughout the construction journey.

It’s all part of our motto to provide craftsman quality on a first name basis. Here, you won’t find stamped-out, mass-produced center consoles. And you’re not a number on our earnings chart. To us, you’re a fellow boater who knows quality. We’re honored to provide you with your next watercraft.

Now owned by a local family who are investing in growing and building the business into its next phase of life. New options for the 14′ and 16′ skiffs as well as the return of the 21′ and 28′ center consoles. The goal is to bring the current level of custom skiff building and center console boats to another level. We’d love to work with you on your next boat. 

For more information about Rabco custom built boats and custom skiffs, please contact us at Ryan@Rabcoboats.net