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, Kl...