Factory Tours

My wife and I are planning on buying a new 16 early next year and were wondering if the Hobie factory offers tours to the general public/owners (prospective owners?). This is probably a question best answered by Matt Miller, but anybody's experiences on the topic would be much appreciated. Thanks much and see you on the water!

I don't know if there is a specific policy for that from HC company, but Hobie Cat was so nice to provide a factory tour for our brazilian colleagues that came over to race the US Nationals this year.

Best Regards
Tomas

Congragulations on your decision to buy a new 16!

I bought one to replace my dying 30 year old 16, and LOVE IT!!!!

Hope to see you at some of the races!

Brent Hendricks
2005 H-16 S# 13566

If you contact Matt directly, he can probably arrange something for you - mmiller(at)hobieco.com.

It's a relatively small company (only about 100 employees), so they don't conduct formal tours. Just be nice and respect the fact that it is a business and people are taking time off from their regular work to show you around.

I was given a tour about 16 years ago before they moved into smaller quarters. The factory then (1989) was cavernous - and very empty. I'm sure it's much different now.

The info posted is right-on. We are happy to show you around. Give us a heads up as to when. The factory is on a 4 day x 10 hours a day schedule, so usually closed up on Fridays. The offices are open 5 days a week.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

I'm beyond stoked that this is going to work out Thanks everybody for the input. Matt, since I'm local, my schedule for making it to the factory is flexable. I'll send you an email to see how things can be done with a minimum of interruption on your end. Talk to you soon.

Well,

I will be taking Monday the 22 off (Coming back from the Wine and Roses regatta in Santa Barbara)..

Any chance I could get a tour? (I will drop off a DVD of a video I shot on the last day of the Hobie Alter Cup in Long Beach in return)

Silly question, but is there a place to park my boat? (She doen't need a tour, since she lived there from January through June LOL!)

Can I also take video and or photo's?

Brent

I have meetings in the mornings that can last till about 11:30, but Jacques or someone else can likely tour ya during that time if you are here that early.

Video and photos are not usually prohibited, but we may ask that shots not be taken in some areas.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Okay, cool!

I probbably won't be there until afternoon anyways...

Thanks


Brent

Hey Matt,

Any way I can pick up 4 Hobie Class course stickers?

I have called a couple dealers and these things seem to be harder to find then a virgin in a house of ill repute!!!