A BUSINESS in Poole has become the UK’s sole distributor of Brazilian Schaefer Yachts.

Gibbs Quay Boat Sales will add the brand to the range it imports and sells.

Schaefer Yachts is the largest yacht manufacturer in South America, with a range of boats from 30ft to 85ft.

It is a major brand in South and North America, with more than 3,500 vessels built in its 30-year existence.

Gibbs Quay Boat Sales is more than a century old and was originally based on the banks of the Thames near Shepperton, Middlesex, before moving to Poole in 2012.

Don Bissessar, who bought the company in 1986, said he had scoured the world looking for a new yacht brand.

He said: “Schaefer Yachts really fit in well with us not only because they meet our high standards but because they are an established manufacturer with an impeccable reputation and are distinct from the other brands in the market place.

“Having visited the factory and seeing the build and design process I am totally confident in the brand and the people behind it.

“Schaefer will bring a touch of carnival and a dash of the Copacabana to the UK boating scene.

“With the official launch scheduled for the Southampton boat show in September the whole team are excited to have several Schaefer yachts on display, including the latest model.”