Behind The Sumerset Name

While enjoying a successful year as part of the Trifecta Ventures merger, Sumerset Houseboats is still proud to celebrate its roots and the company’s beginning all started in 1953 with Jim Sharpe. This man started what was then called Sumerset Marine with a 10- by 24-foot steel bottom with scow bow. He may have sold his shares in 1996, but his vision behind Sumerset Houseboats wove the history of the industry. The name Sumerset and all of the company’s patents were purchased by Thoroughbred houseboats in 2010 and production started back up after the previous owners had shut down due to financial uncertainty.

Its original roots have only expanded thanks to its new ownership under the combined staff at Trifecta Ventures, and the quality of these builds has only continued to grow.

The company’s latest production technique for a better hull and stronger framed boat with better roofing systems maintains its objective for a Sumerset houseboat to be as maintenance-free as possible. And thanks to its glass wall construction, each boat still exudes that polished, timeless charm.

Date Founded: 1953

Location: Monticello, KY

Best-selling Model or Floor Plan: 18x75, 19x90 or 20 x 100

Smallest Houseboat Built to Date: 15’ X 50’    

Largest Houseboat Built to Date: 23’ X 125’

Hull Design: All Aluminum Mono Hulls

Water Application: Lakes, Rivers and Intracoastal

In-house Transportation: Yes  

In-house Interior Designer: Yes 

2015 Recap: With the conclusion of its first full year as part of the merger, Sumerset has seen tremendous success while continuing to construct the builds that are unique to this manufacturer’s name. 

Looking to 2016: Many new houseboats are currently in production as Trifecta Ventures looks ahead to meeting the demand that the new year will bring.  

Company Quote: “The forward-seating Sumerset fly bridge is only available on the Sumerset brand.” – Jerry Harden, President