35 years after first issue, Maine boating magazine hands over the helm
Courtesy / Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors
New owner and publisher Ted Ruegg, left, is shown with John K. Hanson Jr., founder and original publisher of Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors.
Following two other recent shake-ups in Maine’s publishing industry, a magazine closely identified with the state has changed hands.
Rockland-based Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors has sold to a Maryland marine industry businessman, Ted Ruegg, according to a news release. Terms were not disclosed.
The bimonthly magazine’s founder, longtime publisher and original owner, John K. Hanson Jr., will continue as publisher emeritus. In that role, he will work with Ruegg to grow the publication’s brand across its print, digital and event markets.
Editor Polly Saltonstall also will continue in her role with the magazine, its digital edition and website. The magazine, headquartered on South Main Street, will remain in Rockland.
Hanson started Maine Boats in 1987, seeking to showcase the quality of the state's craftsmanship and induce readers to “buy Maine,” the magazine said. It now has a readership of 20,000. Since 2003 the magazine has produced the Maine Boat & Home Show, which typically draws thousands of people to Rockland each August.
Ruegg has worked in the marine industry for more than 30 years, most recently with Sailing World and Cruising World magazines. Although a longtime resident of Annapolis, Md., he has ties to Maine.
The son of a Maine resident, Ruegg has visited the state regularly since age 3, he said. His grandmother bought a cottage on North Haven Island in 1957, and he has sailed the coastline and spent time in Maine boatyards. Coincidentally, Saltonstall, whose family is from North Haven, taught Ruegg in a sailing class there many years ago.
“I am looking forward to working with John, Polly and the dedicated staff of Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors,” Ruegg said. “I have been a fan of the publication for years.
“It’s like I’ve been training to do this my whole life. I will enjoy moving up north with my family and getting to know all of the wonderful craftsmen and artisans that make Maine truly unique.”
Hanson added, “I am excited to pass the baton to such a well-qualified marine professional as Ted. His love and passion for life on the coast and boats mirrors mine. I look forward to working with him as we head into our next 35 years.”
In January, the publisher of another iconic Maine magazine, WoodenBoat, was purchased by an internal team of two executives.
In December, State 23 Media, which produces Maine magazine and Maine Home + Design, sold to Nova Scotia-based Advocate Printing and Publishing Co. Ltd. The deal was unusual because most regional magazines in the U.S. are owned by domestic companies.
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