There are some bright spots in the recreational boating economy, it’s best to highlight them. North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue announced that HC Composites, manufacturer of twin-hull boats, plans to expand its manufacturing operations.

HC Composites may better be known for its two catamaran product lines, World Cat offshore powerboats and, now, Glacier Bay Catamarans. HC Composites recently bought Glacier Bay (which was based out of Seattle) and plans to consolidate both boat facilities to Tarboro, North Carolina.

“World Cat will stay a fishing boat that can cruise, while Glacier Bay will continue being a cruising boat that can fish,” said Chris Brockway, president of Glacier Bay.

HC Composites will invest $2.65 million and create 120 jobs in the next three years. The 120 new jobs will pay an average of $29,560 a year, not including benefits.

“Boat manufacturing is an important part of our economy and the state’s heritage,” Gov. Perdue said. “Our skilled workforce and top-ranked business climate are among the many reasons that homegrown companies such as HC Composites continue to flourish and expand in this great state.”