New ownership for Melges

Melges Performance Sailboats, the iconic brand founded by Harry C. Melges and nurtured across three generations, has announced their sale to Cate Muller-Terhune and Allan Terhune Jr.

After more than 80 years of family leadership, the company is known for building championship-winning scows and an internationally successful lineup of Melges sportboats which have helped shape the sport and inspire generations of sailors worldwide.

“Our family has dedicated generations to building Melges into what it is today,” said Harry Melges III, who became CEO of Melges Performance Sailboats in 1995. “We know the Terhunes will honor that history while continuing to innovate and inspire the sailing world.”

As the new owners, the Terhune bring extensive experience as lifelong sailors, industry leaders, and class advocates. They are committed to honoring Melges’ heritage while guiding the company into its next era of growth.

Cate Muller-Terhune began her marketing career in the sailing industry, and later went on to handle marketing and business development of her family’s architecture firm. She spent the last four years as President of the firm before its acquisition, and now is a leading competitor in the J/70 Class.

Allan Terhune Jr. has an extensive background in competitive and professional sailing, as well as sail development and design. A three-time World Champion and Pan-American Games Gold Medalist, he has led North Sails’ North American One-Design division since 2007, while earning 14 National and Continental titles of his own.

“Melges has always been about more than boats. It’s about the people, competition, and community,” said Cate and Allan in a joint statement. “We are humbled that Harry has entrusted us with taking the next leap towards an amazing future. We are excited to carry on this incredible legacy and join an amazing team that is expanding opportunities for sailors everywhere to experience the joy and excellence that the Melges brand represents.”

Melges Performance Sailboats will remain headquartered in Zenda, Wisconsin, while the Melges Watersports Center in Merritt Island, FL will continue to operate as a hub for racing, education, and community building. Quantum Sails Zenda, also managed by Melges, was not part of the Terhune acquisition.

Andy Burdick continues as President of Melges, and Harry Melges III will remain with the company in his new role as Board Member.

“We are excited to join forces with Cate and Allan, whose vision and values align closely with our own. We’ve done some incredible work over my 40 years at Melges,” said Burdick. “I see this as the beginning of a new chapter—one that will allow us to accelerate growth, strengthen our capabilities, and continue to deliver exceptional value to the sailing community.”

UPDATE: The sail business, which was with North Sails before shifting to Quantum, is shifting back.