Keefe Kaplan Maritime, Inc. (KKMI) is pleased to announce the celebration of 25 years in business.
Founded in May of 1996 by Ken Keefe and Paul Kaplan, Ken Keefe proclaimed, “It has been an incredible 25 years!”
Excerpt taken from the May 1996 edition of Latitude 38 Keefe and Kaplan families
Original photo
Operating from two locations on the Bay, one in Pt. Richmond and another in Sausalito, the company is now looking to the future and the next 25 years. As part of that plan the company announced that Ken Keefe will be retiring from KKMI and transitioning his responsibilities to Paul Kaplan. Ken is expanding a long association with Nautor’s Swan by opening his own yacht sales and consulting company, called Keefe Pacific, Inc. (see more below).
Regarding his departure Keefe said, “I am proud of what we have accomplished at both yards. KKMI’s future is set for the next 25 years and I know the company is in good hands. My memories of working with each of our valued clients, the extremely talented KKMI crew and with Paul is something I will always treasure.”
Paul and Ken back in the day
Over the past quarter century KKMI has established itself as operating one of the most respected maritime service and repair facilities on the West Coast. Over this time KKMI has been the recipient of numerous awards, including “Boat Yard of the Year” by the American Boat Builder’s and Repairers Association and twice recognized as “Small Industry of the Year” by the California Water Environment Association. KKMI is also the first boatyard to achieve “Clean Marine” status in Northern California.
Cofounder Paul Kaplan commented, “The past 25 years have gone by faster than I could have ever imagined, and I too am immensely proud of our team. While the accolades from our industry and others is most humbling, it is the loyalty and kind words from our clients that means so much to our team. I am blessed to work with truly the very best that our industry has to offer, and it is this team which deserves all the credit. I will miss partnering with Ken, but we all wish him the best in his next projects.”
Historically, such celebrations would include a blowout party. Following responsible protocols today however, the company has decided to wait until large gatherings are again appropriate. “KKMI’s annual yard parties are legendary. I can hardly wait until the day comes when we are able to gather together and truly celebrate the last 25 years with our clients and friends,” added Kaplan.
For comments, questions, or more information, please contact Marianne Armand at Marianne@KKMI.com or (510) 307-7916.
KEEFE PACIFIC ANNOUNCES OPENING! – May 5, 2021
After 47 years in the yacht repair and marine industry, Ken Keefe, co-founder of Keefe Kaplan Maritime, Inc (KKMI), announced he is retiring from yacht repair and thus from KKMI. He continues to operate a yacht sales and consulting business as Keefe Pacific, Inc., which currently represents the Finnish sailing yacht builder Nautor’s Swan as well as a number of private clients. Keefe Pacific’s focus is in four primary areas: Nautor’s Swan Americas, project management, new boat construction and yacht brokerage.
“Nautor’s Swan has a special place in my heart,” said Keefe. “My first voyage at sea was aboard the S&S designed Swan 48 “SIRONA” from Bermuda to Newport RI in 1972 with my father and the late Conn Findlay as crew. In 1994 I began my association with Nautor’s Swan and over the course of time, I have cumulatively spent over two years of my life in Finland working on new builds. I look forward to going back to Finland and working with the team there.”
Keefe who will be operating Keefe Pacific from Marin County, said, “I look forward to assisting my valued clients with their maritime adventures. I cannot wait to get back on the water with Jim Swartz and the entire racing team on the IRC 72 “VESPER.” In 2022 I be racing with Don Macpherson on the Swan 90 “Freya” where we will defend our title at the Rolex Swan Cup in Sardinia as well as our victory at the St Barth’s Bucket.”
Keefe said, “The name of the new company is from my father’s past company. I am proud to carry this name forward as he has been a lifetime leader in yachting community.”
To reach Keefe Pacific, contact ken@keefepacific.com or 510-220-5564.