Peter Hrones – COBLI Co-founder

BEHIND THE BRAND

Peter Hrones has been at the forefront of shared boat ownership in Australia for over two decades. Learn about the history that led to the launch of COBLI in 2020.

 Two decades of history

In 2001, Hrones launched one of the country’s first boat syndication programs, pioneering the concept when the idea was still in its infancy. Over time, he refined the model, learning firsthand what worked and what didn’t. One key takeaway was that traditional syndicates, often with up to 10 owners per boat, came with challenges—too many people sharing one vessel often led to scheduling conflicts and a lack of exclusivity.

“The problem with large syndicates is that they become complicated, with too many owners competing for usage. I knew there had to be a better way,” Peter explains.

A VISION COME TO LIFE

With this vision, Peter and John Cowpe co-founded COBLI in 2020, rethinking the approach to shared ownership. COBLI limits the number of owners per boat, offering a premium experience with more flexibility, availability, and a seamless walk-on, walk-off service.

“COBLI is designed for those who want the joys of boat ownership without the headaches. By keeping the number of owners smaller, we ensure a first-class experience where people can truly enjoy their time on the water,” Peter says.

Known for his ability to anticipate market trends and introduce innovative solutions, Peter saw that Australian boaters were looking for a simpler, more luxurious way to own a boat—without the commitment of full ownership. COBLI delivers exactly that, pairing high-end yachts with a fully managed service team that takes care of everything behind the scenes.

“Australians love boating, but they don’t want the stress of maintenance and logistics. That’s where COBLI steps in—it’s about pure enjoyment on the water,” Peter adds.

OUTSIDE THE OFFICE

Beyond business, Peter has always had a deep personal connection to boating. In 2008, he embarked on a transformative sailing adventure with his family, reinforcing his belief in the magic of life on the water. Today, he continues to enjoy twilight sailing on his Saffier 33, weekly tennis matches with past and present colleagues, and his growing passion for golf.