Yacht brokerage expands into Vermilion

VERMILION — A yacht brokerage company is expanding into Ohio, choosing Vermilion as its home along Lake Erie. Weber Yachts celebrated its arrival on Tuesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce along the Vermilion River. Capt. Tim Kleihege, who has 25 years of experience in boat brokerage, is leading the company's Ohio expansion. Weber Yachts operates primarily around Lake Michigan and specializes in helping customers buy and sell boats. Unlike a traditional boat dealership, the company does not sell new boats from a showroom or maintain a storefront. As of today, it won't have a physical location set up in Vermilion. "We're strictly brokerage," said Kleihege, comparing the business to a real estate agent who helps people buy and sell homes. The business will operate year-round, including during the winter months when boating activity slows. Kleihege said transactions can still be completed during the offseason, sometimes using escrow accounts while buyers arrange inspections and sea trials. Why Vermilion? Kleihege said he chose Vermilion because of its nautical history, location along Lake Erie and welcoming atmosphere. During the ceremony, Kleihege spoke about Vermilion's long maritime history, including its early shipbuilding industry. He noted that the community is roughly halfway between Cleveland and Catawba Island, giving the business access to boat owners throughout the region. Kleihege and his wife, Katie, have also been looking at homes in the area. What particularly impressed him was how boating is part of everyday life in Vermilion. The river attracts everyone from kayakers and paddleboarders to owners of small fishing boats and large yachts. Kleihege said that variety helps distinguish Vermilion from other boating communities, where waterfront activity can be more exclusive. He also praised the community's public waterfront access and its connection to the boating industry. More information is available at weberyachts.com and excellenceonerie.com.