Despite industry-wide difficulties in a down economy, Harken Yacht Equipment has announced strong plans for the full introduction of a new division focused entirely on hydraulic systems and components for the sailing market. 

After years of research, testing, and product development, the new Harken Hydraulics Division will officially commence this fall. With the division launch comes a full range of hydraulics and components including cylinders, pumps, reservoirs, valves, and manifolds. The new products
have been put through their paces on sailing platforms including luxury megayachts such as  the 52 meter Sparkman and Stephens-designed Nazenin V, performance cruisers like the Hodgdon-designed Tripp 65, and Grand Prix racers, like 2008 TP52 World Champion and 2008 Audi Med Cup Circuit winner Quantum Racing, and the 98-foot super maxi Speedboat.

Harken’s decision to enter the hydraulic world was simple. “We wanted to be able to provide our customer with the best hydraulic products possible, and support them with the best hydraulics people possible,” comments owner, Peter Harken. “We quickly realized that many of our customers needed complete hydraulic solutions, so we’ve become a one-stop-shop for our customers. We are able to provide them with a full range of products and services-backed by the Harken name and service network.” 

With the launch of this new division comes a wide array of hydraulic solutions. The new line of valves and manifolds come with complete mounting flexibility, allowing designers and sailors to customize all of their control placements. Not only are the new cylinders some of the most efficient on the market, they are also offered in a variety of materials, allowing customers to have the best material for the given application. Harken’s pressurized reservoirs are some of the lightest in the industry, aiding in the constant desire for builders and designers to create lighter, faster boats. 

Harken, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and distributor of innovative sailboat hardware and accessories. Headquartered in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, Harken manufactures in the USA and Italy. Their network includes offices in 48 countries, with group offices located in Australia, France, Italy, New Zealand, Poland, Slovenia, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States (Rhode Island, California, and Florida).