SALTWATER ROOTS
HIDDEN SHIPS
Discover an intimate, memorable experience you’ll want to tell friends and family about. Discover a new spirit, a new horizon.
When Andy Szwejbka retired from the Marines, he and his wife Amy loaded their four children into an RV and traveled the country. With their leadership skills and business acumen, the Szwejbka family could have started a successful business anywhere in the US. But they chose Surf City where they established Hidden Ships Distillery, the producer of bourbon, vodka, gin, and rum.
“By far our most popular product is bourbon. It is our number one seller among full bottles, and the Old Fashioned, which features bourbon, is our number one selling cocktail,” said Andy. “We’re really proud to share the story that all of the corn in our bourbon is grown in North Carolina.”
The name Hidden Ships pays homage to the ‘top sail’ legacy of Topsail Island. Here they opened the first distillery in Pender County and have built a community and gathering place.
“We’re most proud of the community that has developed around and in support of Hidden Ships,” said Andy. “Opening the first distillery to operate in Pender County was not without its challenges. Since day one, the local community has shown up and continues to show up.”
Hidden Ships Distillery has captured the attention beyond the Greater Topsail Area. The company has won both national and international awards.
“Our bourbon was awarded a Double Gold Medal last year at a spirits competition, and more recently just won another Gold Medal at the Berlin International Spirits Competition,” said Andy. Hidden Ships has also been named USA Distillery of the Year by the prestigious Berlin International Spirits Competition.
The awards and accolades are appreciated, but Andy adds, “The biggest compliment is when a customer shares with us that they love our distillery so much they continue to bring their friends and family when visiting.
“Everything we do at Hidden Ships is focused on creating memorable customer experiences,” stated Andy. “It starts with crafting premium spirits and continues through the bar and lounge area with our cocktail menu and exceptional service.”
