THE REDBAY STORY
Family story
Family isn’t just a word
At Redbay Boats, family isn’t just a word—it’s the foundation of everything we do. Tom’s wife, Cathy, has been by his side through every high and low, helping build Redbay into what it is today. Their son, Conor, serves as Tom’s right-hand man, bringing his own expertise to every project. Christopher, Catherine, and Bronagh complete the team, each contributing uniquely to the heart and soul of Redbay. Together, they make Team Redbay more than just a workforce—it’s a family dedicated to crafting boats and creating memories.
Our History
For as long as Tom can remember, he’s been captivated by the idea of building boats. When given the choice to return to school, he bought a book on boatbuilding instead — and from that spark, Redbay Boats was born in a modest shed in Cushendall in 1977. What began as a backyard passion evolved into a global enterprise. Over the past 47 years, we’ve crafted over 1,000 boats, exporting them worldwide. But Redbay is more than a business. It’s family, community, and adventure. Every boat carries stories - of journeys taken, memories created, and lives touched. Tom still recalls building his first sea-going boat back in 1977. The 13-foot, clinker-built wooden boat, known as “Redbay 1,” remains a treasured part of the fleet, proudly displayed at the factory. Fast forward to 2024, and Redbay Boats has evolved to produce some of the world’s most capable RIBs. What started as a passion project has grown into a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation, with each boat carrying a piece of that original spirit.
Redbay x ardbeg whiskey
It's an experience
For 25 years, Redbay Boats and Ardbeg Whiskey have shared something more than just a partnership—it’s an experience. Each year, Team Redbay embarks on a special voyage to Islay, celebrating not just their craftsmanship but the camaraderie and stories that define the boating season.
It’s not just about the destination, but the journey—the laughter, the shared moments, the stories told over a glass of Ardbeg. It’s a tradition that defines the soul of Redbay, one that must be lived to truly be understood.
