AUGUSTA – Morris Yachts has been named Maine and New England Small Business Exporter for 2006 by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“The SBA is proud to recognize Morris Yachts as the SBA Small Business Exporter for 2006 for the state of Maine and New England,” said SBA New England Regional Administrator Charles E. Summers in a press release announcing the award. “Morris Yachts is a shining example of the tradition of boat building excellence that is part of Maine’s heritage.”

The company was founded in 1972 by Thomas D.C. Morris and remains a family-owned business. Morris’ son, Cuyler Morris, is now president of the company, which employs more than 100 people in its boat building and service yards in Hancock County. Tom remains active in the company, assisting with sales, construction and advice.

The launching of Morris Yachts’ M-series of day sailers two years ago dramatically expanded the company’s export business. Export sales now constitute almost 20 percent of the company’s gross sales. Morris yachts have been delivered to Scotland, Canada, Ireland, Italy and Hong Kong. This year, the company will deliver boats to Japan and Mexico.

According to Cuyler Morris, all but one of the 200 Morris yachts built are still sailing today. Since joining Morris Yachts, Cuyler has built the company into one of North America’s premier semi-custom and custom yacht builders for boats in the 34- to 70-foot category.

“It’s an honor to be given this award,” he said. “This confirms what many Mainers already know: Maine can compete at the highest level in the global economy by building the best boats in the world.”

Morris Yachts has leveraged both United States Department of Agriculture and SBA finance programs to remain strong and to grow. Dave Eldridge, Vice President, Machias Savings Bank, nominated Morris Yachts for this award.

Tom and Cuyler Morris will be honored at the SBA celebration Wednesday, May 24, at Spectacular Event Center in Bangor.