BUSINESS is proving buoyant for a Brighouse boat builder.
Sagar Marine has been launching its Dutch inspired Mini-Luxe steel barges onto the Calder & Hebble Canal at a rate of three a year since 1991.
The craft, measuring from 49ft to 60ft in length, are a familiar sight on the river Thames and Europe’s inland waterways.
The company’s Alicia craft was the winner of the award for the best commercially-built boat at the National Festival and Boat Show at Beale Park, Pangbourne, Berkshire, in 2006.
The firm also won an award for excellence in broad beam boat building in 1999.
Most of the boats are fitted with diesel-fired central heatings unit from Doncaster-based Webasto Product UK Ltd. Owners are welcome to add their design ideas into the interior fit out.
Sagar Marine, based at Wharfe Street, was formed in 1975 by Stephen and Wendy Sagar.
They are also joined in the business by sons Andrew and Jonathan.
The company began by building cruisers, traditional narrow boats and tugs and Inspection launches before building its first Dutch barge in 1991.
It now manufactures only barges under the Mini-Luxe design and trademark.
It is currently working on its 48th barge.
Said Andrew Sagar: “Each Mini-Luxe barge we construct represents the end result of a huge amount of conscientious craftsmanship.
“All steelwork and interior fit out is carried out in-house by our own labour, with no subcontractor involvement, enabling us to ensure exacting quality standards.
“It’s the same when we select suppliers for the barges’ standard equipment – quality has to be the watchword and Webasto’s products have proved to be ideal.”
