Reggie Fountain and Fountain Powerboats: A History of Performance
The story of offshore racing legend Reggie Fountain.
Reggie Fountain and Fountain Powerboats have shaped the high-performance boating industry. This article explores their history, achievements, and contributions.
Reggie Fountain’s Background
Reggie Fountain was born in Tarboro, North Carolina. He developed an interest in boats at a young age. At 14, he entered his first boat race. He later earned degrees from the University of North Carolina. Before boating, he worked as an insurance agent and invested in real estate.
In 1970, he began professional racing. He joined the Mercury Factory Racing Team with Earl Bentz and Bill Seebold. He won Formula One World Championships in 1976 and 1977. Over his career, he competed in 201 races and won 101. In 2004, he set a kilo speed record of 171.880 mph.
Reggie Fountain rockets across the water in his iconic red, white, and blue tunnel boat, dominating the 1970s racing circuit with unmatched speed and precision. Image by VÉHICULE
Founding of Fountain Powerboats
Fountain Powerboats was established in 1979 in Washington, North Carolina. Reggie started the company after Mercury disbanded its racing team. The first boat, the 10 Meter Executioner, was launched in 1980. It featured a notched transom and keel pad for better performance.
Reggie introduced the Positive Lift Hull in the 1990s. This stepped hull design improved speed and handling. Another innovation was the flared “hawk beak” bow. These features helped Fountain boats stand out in the industry.
Reggie Fountain's groundbreaking Executioner, the iconic 33-foot 10 Meter hull, slices through the waves with timeless power and style, marking the dawn of Fountain Powerboats' high-performance legacy in 1980. Image by VÉHICULE.
Achievements and Impact
Fountain Powerboats sold over 10,000 boats, generating more than $1 billion in sales. At its peak, annual sales reached $420 million. The company’s boats won more offshore V-bottom races than any other brand. Models like the 42 Lightning became widely recognized.
Reggie’s racing success built the brand’s reputation. His focus on durability ensured boats were reliable. The company also expanded into center console fishing boats, such as the 34CC and 38CC Bluewater models.
The iconic 47' Fountain 'INXS' powerboat thunders across the waves, its sleek V-bottom hull and triple engines embodying offshore racing dominance in events like the Key West World Championships. Image by VÉHICULE
Challenges and Ownership Changes
The 2008 recession impacted Fountain Powerboats. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2009 and 2012. Reggie left in 2010 due to disagreements with new owners, Liberty Associates. In 2011, he started RF Powerboats to build custom boats.
In 2016, Iconic Marine Group acquired Fountain Powerboats. They continued production in Washington, North Carolina. Reggie returned as a consultant in 2017. In 2023, the Fountain Certified Program was launched to refurbish pre-owned boats.
Boat Designs and Innovations
Fountain boats use a unified 4-step construction process. They incorporate heavy-duty marine adhesives and carbon fiber for strength. Stepped hulls improve speed and efficiency. Current models include sport boats, sport cruisers, and Tournament Edition fishing boats.
The 2025 42 Lightning features an updated deck and cabin. Mercury Racing powers all Fountain boats. Sizes range from 27 to 65 feet, with options for triple 400-hp engines.
Reggie Fountain: A true American story of grit and glory, rising from North Carolina roots to conquer the seas as a racing legend and boatbuilding pioneer, embodying innovation, resilience, and the pursuit of speed. Image by VÉHICULE
Reggie’s Legacy
In 2024, Beaufort County recognized Reggie with “Reggie Day” for his economic contributions. His sons, Wyatt and Reggie III, continue his legacy in racing and boatbuilding.
Reggie also founded Fountain Performance Marine in 2015. This company focuses on boat repairs and upgrades. It operates separately from Fountain Powerboats.
