About Rosborough

Original Manufacturer of
Semi-Custom Fiberglass Boats

Rosborough Boats is an Original Manufacturer of Semi-Custom fiberglass boats based out of Halifax, Nova Scotia. The production of a Rosborough vessel is split between two locations; Murphy Cove on Nova Scotia’s Eastern shore and Halifax.

The Main Construction Plant

The main construction plant in Murphy Cove is where the lamination and preassembly shops are located. The hull, superstructure and furniture components are constructed and assembled here. Much of under-floor equipment is also installed here. The shop is managed by Les Brown and employs 22 skilled craftsmen and assistant managers. The team at Murphy Cove take pride in their quality work and their ability to adapt quickly as Rosborough’s designs continue to be improved.

The Head Office & Finishing Shop

The head office in Halifax is where the second half of the production of a Rosborough boat is completed. Six qualified marine outfitters, including shop manager, Richard Lindala, equip these semi-custom boats with everything from power, plumbing & deck hardware to furniture, electronics, galley and other accessories. Everything is built and installed to ABYC and US Coastguard Standards by a team of experienced boat builders. All Rosborough vessels are thoroughly inspected prior to delivery in Halifax.

Upstairs from the finishing shop are the offices of Bob Rosborough, owner and president of Rosborough Boats, sales Heaton Rosborough, and the office manager Maxine Rosborough. The proximity of the head office to the finishing area allows for close communication between the sales team and the craftsman on the shop floor ensuring the final product meets the customer's expectations.

Both the Murphy Cove and Halifax locations are equipped with well organized stock rooms and inventory systems. The purchasing/ordering team keeps scheduled stock on orders and uses only quality products and accessories.

Rosborough is Growing

Rosborough Boats is currently building 40 to 50 boats a year and participates in 10 to 12 boat shows a year. For the past six years, Rosborough Boats has also built a strong, reputation in the commercial boat industry. Under contract with the Canadian Department of Fisheries & Oceans and the Canadian Coastguard, Rosborough has built a fleet of patrol/work boats. Over the past two years they have developed a very successful commercial line of Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats called "Rough Water" (Now being supplied to the Canadian DFO, RCMP, Canadian Coast Guard & Quebec Provincial Police). With plans to advance in the commercial market while continuing their focus on their pleasure boats Rosborough is enthusiastic about the future growth of the company in both industries.

Rosborough Means Quality & Customer Service

Attention to customer requirements and demands (throughout North America and the Caribbean), coupled with their "do it all yourself" approach to designing, building, selling and delivering has allowed Rosborough unequalled competitiveness in the semi-custom boat building market. Recent marketing changes have had Rosborough establish a dealership network. This will enable and assist in future development and growth. Our satisfied customers are testimony to the quality and integrity of the Rosborough Boat.

James Rosborough

History

The Beginning

James D. Rosborough started designing boats as a young man and in 1955, after an attempt at a small boat brokerage, decided to turn his ideas and dreams of traditional vessels into reality by building yachts. During the process he formed Rosborough Boats Ltd.

From Hobby to Business

Doug Rosborough had turned his hobby of building romantic sailing vessels into a successful business. Doug's sons Bob and Kevin eventually joined the business. Over time, a rapid decline in the popularity of both wooden and sailing vessels forced the company to turn its interests to power vessels constructed of fiberglass.

Designed to meet market demand, Rosboroughs fibreglass vessels vere versatile. The RF 18 was an 18' traditional style hull that included a cabin and wheelhouse. This boat became a hit with pleasure boaters. The RF 28 - also designed with cabins to suit both fishermen and yachtsmen alike quickly gained popularity.

Increased Demand Forces Growth

With increased demand in the early 1980's, Rosborough erected a second production facility on Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore. In 1983 the plant was built and the first new project, the RF 35 was commenced. As demand for other models grew stronger, a third shop was constructed on the same site. The operation was now a full scale boatyard. With both expert fiberglass laminating capability and proficient finishing craftsman, Rosborough was able to offer customized versions of their boat models.

Rosborough began to focus on the pleasure boat market soon after the third facility was built. This decision proved to be the correct as the market for fishing boats crashed in the mid 1980's. The development of the RF 246 was the result. The RF 18, however, after 14 years of steady production reached the end of its market cycle and was replaced by the development of the Seaskiff 22 in the early 1990's.

A New Era for Rosborough

The mid 1990's Doug & Kevin Rosborough retired. Bob Rosborough took control of the company.

The Rosborough craftsmen take great pride in their work. The sales team is enthusiastic and positively attending to market needs, changes, and customer relations. A positive team attitude is ensuring the future growth and success of Rosborough Boats.