Our Companies
Staniel Cay Yacht Club
Founded in 1956 by Joe Hocher, the Staniel Cay Yacht Club has been a cornerstone of the Exuma islands for decades. What started as a modest, handmade clubhouse has grown into a vibrant resort featuring 14 seaside bungalows, an 18-slip marina, and a lively restaurant and bar. Known for its welcoming spirit and authentic island charm, the Yacht Club continues to be a favorite gathering place for locals, boaters, and travelers from around the world.
Makers Air
In the mid-1990s, Joe Hocher began flying supplies from Fort Lauderdale to support Staniel Cay, and in 2001 this service officially became a Part 135 charter airline. Today, Makers Air operates a fleet of eight Cessna Grand Caravans out of Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, offering scheduled flights to the Bahamas as well as private charters across the region. From its early days in a small hangar to its modern island-inspired passenger lounge, Makers Air has never lost its family touch. Along with safe, reliable travel, the airline is deeply committed to community, supporting hurricane relief missions, children’s programs, and veteran initiatives.
Watermakers Inc.
In the 1970s, faced with the challenge of supplying fresh water to Staniel Cay Yacht Club, Joe Hocher set out to design a better solution. By 1984, Watermakers Inc. was officially established in Fort Lauderdale and quickly became a leader in reverse osmosis desalination systems. Built on a reputation for durability, simplicity, and reliability, Watermakers systems serve yachts, marinas, hotels, and industries worldwide. Today, under the leadership of Joe’s son David, the company continues to innovate while staying true to the values of craftsmanship and customer care that have made Watermakers the most trusted name in the industry.
At Hocher Holdings, our businesses may span different industries, but they share one thing in common: a family approach that values integrity, innovation, and lasting relationships. From the docks of Staniel Cay to the skies over the Bahamas and the technology behind the world’s most reliable watermakers, our story is built on passion, purpose, and people.