The Wake a Living Legend Leaves

Originally featured by ZF Marine as part of their Profiles from the Helm series.

Forty years after founding Jarrett Bay Boatworks, Randy Ramsey’s story is still unfolding. Cruise along as we share Randy’s unassuming startup days to how he helped shape the modern sportfishing industry. This series traces the evolution of his business, his perspective on leadership, and the enduring partnership with ZF that has supported him all along the way.

As Jarrett Bay Boatworks marks its 40th anniversary, Randy Ramsey’s perspective on success is as grounded as ever. For someone who helped build one of the most respected names in custom sportfishing, his focus isn’t on the boats—it’s on the people behind them.

“What I’m most proud of is that the company has positively impacted lives over 40 years. Many families have made a good living working here, and have had something to be proud of everyday. Everyone who works on the boats is as important as the leadership of the company.”

Randy Ramsey honoring Brian Wade as employee of the month in 1998

That mindset—one rooted in humility, shared success, and respect—has defined Randy’s approach from the very beginning. Lessons that take some a lifetime to learn came naturally to him, shaping his leadership style and the culture of the company.

“It’s about treating people like family. It might be an overused term, but we really do look after them like family.”

Stewardship, Not Stepping Away

Today, Jarrett Bay continues to build cutting-edge vessels, even under new ownership following its 2022 acquisition by Safe Harbor Marinas. The transition marked a major milestone, but not an ending. Randy remains actively involved, helping guide the company as it continues producing new custom builds and expanding its capabilities.

“New construction is very busy. The boat yard is very busy. We’re making plans for some large expansion.”

Randy’s influence reaches far beyond Jarrett Bay itself. Through his role with Bluewater Yacht Sales, Randy continues to support the broader marine ecosystem—helping connect customers with the right vessels while ensuring the same level of service and long-term support that has always defined his work.

That philosophy extends into every boat that leaves the yard—and every one that comes back.

“We never really let go of these things. These boats come back here and we continually try to improve things for the customers. It’s not just upkeep; many times it’s repowers, or new generators, or new electronics. It’s a constant evolution.”

It’s a long-term commitment that mirrors Randy’s view of customer relationships.

“Like ZF says, this is a relationship business.”

Randy Ramsey

Randy often compares the connection between builder and customer to a marriage—one that continues long after delivery. It’s a key reason he has remained loyal to ZF over the years, trusting that its systems—and its people—will continue to support his customers wherever they operate.

An Open-Handed Philosophy

Randy’s legacy can be defined by what he’s built, as well as what he’s helped others build. Over the years, he has played a role in launching at least six other boatbuilding companies—sharing knowledge openly in the same way it was once shared with him.

“How can I keep information from people when no one held information from me?”

This mindset carries into his philanthropic efforts, inspired by his father’s example.

Randy Ramey’s philanthropic support includes major endowments at NC State University, among others

“My dad was very philanthropic and did a lot of volunteer work. That was instilled in me from the time I was very young. It has played a big role for me in the fact that so many people have done so much to help me that I feel there is a real obligation to give back.”

Randy Ramsey

Randy Ramsey takes the helm of the Big Rock Podcast

Together with his wife, Tiffany, that commitment has translated into meaningful contributions across North Carolina—from athletics and education to veterinary medicine. Their support includes major endowments at NC State University, helping fund scholarships and advance programs that will benefit future generations.

Randy’s impact on education extends even further through his leadership as former chairman of the University of North Carolina System’s Board of Governors, where he played a role in shaping opportunities for students across the state.

He also remains closely tied to sportfishing through his involvement with the Big Rock Tournament and Big Rock Podcast—platforms that celebrate the people, stories, and traditions of the industry he so loves.

In it For The Long Game

Even with decades of success behind him, Randy’s outlook remains forward-focused—centered on the people, the work, and the opportunities still to come.

“I think that loving what you do and coming to work everyday like you love it is going to propel your success. I love coming to work here everyday – they’ll have to come and wheel me out of here. I only plan to retire when I can’t get in the door anymore,” he chuckles.

Whether through mentorship, business leadership, or philanthropy, Randy’s influence continues to shape the next generation of boatbuilders and marine professionals.

“I certainly hope that the company will be here 40 more years from now. I won’t be, but I hope the company will be because of what it does in the community, providing a workforce and stability, not to mention service to our customers.”

With trusted partners like ZF, Randy is confident that the same standards of performance, reliability, and integrity will carry forward—ensuring that every boat and every relationship continue to stand the test of time.

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Jarrett Bay Hull 62 Jaruco showcasing classic Carolina lines underway

“I’m excited for the future.”

Randy Ramsey

More From This Series

Building a Benchmark in Sportfishing

Ramsey recounts the rise of Jarrett Bay from “a leaky tin shed” to a world-class operation, and a partnership with ZF defined by common values.

Where It All Began: The Grit Behind Randy Ramsey’s Rise

Sportfishing icon and founder of Jarrett Bay Boatworks, Ramsey shares his early days in charter boats and the unlikely start of his inventive custom yacht business.