Nor-Tech custom boats expand manufacturing in Cape Coral

If you are on the water this summer, you may be amazed if you come across a custom-made Nor-Tech boat, which is built right here in Southwest Florida.

These high quality custom boats that cost around $600,000 may become more recognizable in Florida waters with the expansion of the company here in Cape Coral.

“Today’s boats are performance oriented and practical, sexy in that better word,” said Nils Johnsen, who is one of the owners and builders of Nor-Tech boats.

The new 100,000 square foot headquarters offers the finest customization experience when building boats for customers.

“You can choose big top, small top, multiple motors,” said Johnsen.

The idea to start the company began 28 years ago when two friends, Trond Schou and Nils Johnsen who casually built one boat per year decided to turn their hobby into a business.

“We did fiberglass, we did upholstery, rigged it and everything,” Schou said.

Now, they produce about 100 custom boats per year, and with the new expansion in Cape Coral they expect to grow that number by 30 percent. They plan to hire nearly 100 employees, and even received a grant from the city of Cape Coral to help hire.

“The city has been very friendly to us, and helping us get grant money for hiring people,” Schou said.

The city also provides incentives to the company for hiring local employees. And even though a lot of their boats are built by and for Southwest Floridians, they’re shipped all across the United States.