Lighting the Way
Three generations of craftsmanship, integrity, and commitment
From Service to Sanctuary
Water has been Derek Carlson's sanctuary since childhood. Growing up in Minnesota, he understood the peace and connection that comes from time spent on the lake—moments that ground us and bring us back to what truly matters.
Derek's path to NorthStar Pontoons began with years of service as a police officer, where he learned the values that would define his business: integrity, honor, and unwavering commitment to those we serve.
But Derek's connection to pontoons runs deeper than most entrepreneurs. As a third-generation pontoon builder, he carries forward decades of knowledge, techniques, and traditions passed down through his family.
The Bridge Between Service and Craftsmanship
Derek's dual roles as polics officer and pontoon builder aren't separate careers - they're complementary expressions of his commitment to serve. He protects his community on land while crafting the vessels that bring families safely together on the water.
Three Generations of Excellence
The knowledge Derek brings to NorthStar isn't learned from books or business schools—it's generational wisdom passed down through three generations of pontoon craftsmen. Every weld, every design decision, every quality standard reflects decades of refinement and expertise.
This heritage gives NorthStar a foundation that new companies can't replicate: the deep understanding of what makes a pontoon not just functional, but exceptional for the families who depend on it.
Values Forged Through Service
Integrity
Honest craftsmanship and transparent business practices. Derek's law enforcement background instilled a commitment to doing what's right, even when no one is watching.
Honor
Respecting our three-generation heritage while honoring the trust families place in us. Every pontoon carries the reputation built by those who came before.
Unwavering Commitment
Dedicated to those we serve, ensuring every pontoon creates lasting memories. This commitment comes from Derek's years of public service and family tradition.
The NorthStar Difference
What sets NorthStar apart isn't just our competitive pricing or quality construction—it's the unique combination of generational expertise, law enforcement values, and genuine understanding of what families need on the water.
Derek and his wife have built NorthStar in Mora, Minnesota, staying true to their community roots while serving customers across the region. We're not a faceless corporation; we're neighbors who happen to build exceptional pontoons.
Every NorthStar pontoon represents three generations of knowledge, refined by Derek's commitment to integrity and service, crafted for families who deserve both quality and value.
Rooted in Mora, Growing with Purpose
From our facility at 1200 Industrial Road North in Mora, Minnesota, we're excited to announce expansion plans that will allow us to better serve customers and offer even more unique experiences in the coming years.
But growth for us isn't about getting bigger—it's about reaching more families who deserve quality time together on the water.
Every expansion, every innovation, every pontoon that leaves our facility carries the same promise Derek made when he started: to honor our three-generation heritage while serving families with the integrity, honor, and commitment learned through years of public service.
The water is calling. Your family is waiting. And your NorthStar pontoon is ready to bring you all together.