Marine Group Boat Works (MGBW), a shipyard and boatbuilding firm with facilities in the United States and Mexico, has announced a change in ownership as part of its long-term growth strategy. The move includes new leadership and a renewed focus on infrastructure, workforce growth and industry engagement.
The acquisition covers MGBW’s shipyard in Chula Vista, California, and its sister facility in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. It also includes Marine Group Global Services, which offers marine consulting and technical support worldwide. Under Global Services, MGBW continues to manage Fifth Avenue Landing, a superyacht marina located in downtown San Diego.
Co-founder and president Todd Roberts has acquired the company with investors Chip Besse and Skye Callantine. Roberts now serves as CEO, while Besse takes the role of board chairman. The purchase amount was not disclosed.
“Chip and Skye are young, visionary and willing to take risks when they see opportunity. But they are also extremely selective. They only partner with companies with very healthy financials, a strong company structure and an even stronger management team,” said Roberts.
All 250 employees across both locations will remain with the company, with additional hiring planned as MGBW expands. The management team will also stay in place to ensure operational continuity.
The company plans immediate upgrades to the entrance of its Chula Vista yard, located next to the upcoming Gaylord Pacific Resort. Other priorities include expanding services for the superyacht industry, increasing its work with the US Navy and growing its construction division to support renewed interest in California boatbuilding and US manufacturing.
Roberts added: “This year marks my 25th anniversary with the company and talk about a full-circle moment. I was originally supposed to close this place down. Instead, the Engel family took a chance on a young guy with big ideas, and together we built something special. We have come a long way, but I’d like to think we’re also just getting started. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue the Engels’ legacy and hope to make them proud for many years to come.”
While the Engel family has exited MGBW, they maintain a presence in San Diego’s maritime sector through other ventures, including Flagship Cruises & Events, Coronado Ferry Landing and their ownership of the Fifth Avenue Landing marina.
