Keefe Kaplan Maritime, Inc. (KKMI) is pleased to announce the celebration of 25 years in business. Ken Keefe and Paul Kaplan founded KKMI in May 1996. Ken Keefe proclaimed, “It has been an incredible 25 years!” 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.

In Keefe’s departure, he 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.”

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. Paul Kaplan, co-founder, 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 that 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 more information, please contact Marianne Armand at [email protected] or (510) 307-7916