MarineMax Lifestyles Magazine Summer 2020

SUMMER 2020

STAYCATION

DOCK & DINE

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FUN BOATING IDEAS FOR STAYING CLOSE TO HOME

LOOK INSIDE FOR DELICIOUS AND BOAT-FRIENDLY RECIPES!

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T H E

H I G H

L I F E

There’s nowhere you should feel more indulged than on the water. That’s why we craft every detail to heighten your experience. From how the upholstery feels on your skin to how you feel when you’re behind the wheel. We care about every detail so your time is rewarded again and again. Visit searay.com.

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E N J O Y E D

SPRING 2020

MARINEMAX LIFESTYLES

AT THE HELM Welcome Since the publication of our spring issue, our lives have changed. Social distancing has presented an opportunity to focus on priorities and spend more time with our family. I sincerely hope you and your families have been enjoying time together while remaining safe and sound.

During the spring boating season, we had the pleasure of witnessing that the passion for yachting and boating with family and friends is stronger than ever. Waterways were very active, with boaters practicing social distancing and staying close to home and away from crowds.

Now that summer has arrived, warm weather, sunshine and longer days are the perfect mix for reconnecting and planning great adventures on the water.

Our stores and teams are available and ready to provide you with the best customer experience in the industry, including private appointments. If you prefer to shop online, you will find our inventory is available 24/7 on our website at www.marinemax.com. We made investments in our online experience to make shopping more convenient. We also introduced the MarineMax App to make your boating experience even easier, and our Endless Staycation link can help you find the yacht or boat of your dreams with in-depth video and photo tours. You will also find information about our world-class service departments, our wide variety of brands, planned events, and charters. Please stop by one of our stores or visit

our website to see what we have been up to and how we can help you and your family enjoy your time on the water.

We hope you enjoy this issue, filled with great articles, tips and some of our featured brands. As always, we will continue to look at ways to provide you with the best boating experience. We thank you for being part of the MarineMax family and we hope you have a wonderful summer on the water. Stay safe, enjoy adventures close to home and happy boating. From our entire MarineMax family to yours, we are United by Water.

Brett McGill Chief Executive Officer and President

MarineMax, Inc. is the largest recreational boat retailer in the United States, with over 60 retail stores and service centers nationwide.

MarineMax sells new and used pleasure and recreational boats for leisure, fishing, watersports and yachting, and provides customers with free boating classes, Getaways!ÂŽ trips and more to help customers get the most from the boating lifestyle.

CONT E NTS 8

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The Power of Innovation

Kids at Heart

10 Reasons for Owning a Pontoon

Born to Breakway

Staycation Like a Pro

Dock & Dine

Forever Young

Surf’s Up

Discover the new Sea Ray SLX-R 400e Outboard.

There’s nothing quite like putting a three-year-old in charge of a day on the water.

Find out why pontoon boats have never been more popular.

Aviara continues to elevate and unveils third model in inaugural year – the AV40.

Discover new adventures and celebrate the boating season without straying too far away from home.

Indulge in these delicious recipes courtesy of Stock Island Marina Village.

Seniors Deon Neighbors and Dot Vines go fishing on a Boston Whaler.

Learn all about wakesurfing and the latest and greatest wakesurf boats.

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Tickled Pink

Built to Impress

Lucky 7

Reconfirming the Revolution

Freedom to Explore

Boating Made Easy

Our Team is Your Advantage

Boat & Yacht Listings

A Louisiana couple finds other people’s boats keep them in the boating lifestyle they love, both at home and abroad.

Striking looks, craftsmanship and innovation describe the Griffith’s Galeon 425 HTS.

For one happy owner the Azimut S7 combines performance, style and cruisability in the perfect package.

The 26R further establishes the revolution of Ocean Alexander Yachts.

The Benetti Delfino 95 capitalizes on centuries’ worth of excellence in Italian yachtbuilding.

Learn more about the new MarineMax App and how it will make your boating easier.

MarineMax supports boat owners with a team of experts who are your boating resource.

Browse through some of our current boat and yacht inventory.

Director of Marketing Abbey Heimensen Editor Jim Pieretti Creative Director / Editor Jeff Cooper Copy Editors Amanda Ward, Lisa Harrison Graphic Designers Michael Lukus, Chris Moore The opinions expressed in this magazine are not to be considered official expressions of MarineMax Inc. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all editorial or advertising matter. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without prior written consent from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Printed in the USA. Copyright © 2020 MarineMax Inc.

published by MarineMax, Inc. Any correspondence should be directed to: MarineMax Marketing 2600 McCormick Drive, Suite 200 Clearwater, FL 33759 (727) 531-8150

UPCOMING

EVENTS & GETAWAYS!

ÂŽ

For a complete list of local and virtual events, visit marinemax.com/events

Women on WaterÂŽ Classes July 8 MarineMax Clearwater July 9 / July 11 / August 1 MarineMax Ohio July 15 MarineMax Sarasota August 1 / September 19 MarineMax Orlando August 15 MarineMax Wrightsville Beach October 14 / December 9 MarineMax Naples November 14 MarineMax Miami Beach

6th Annual Mid Atlantic Rendezvous

Scalloping Getaway!

July 10 - 12 Canyon Club, Cape May, NJ

July 17 - 19 / August 7 - 9 Crystal River, FL

Aquila Owners Rendezvous

Azimut Owners Rendezvous

Marina Grille Dock and Dine

July 23 - 26 South Seas Island Resort, Captiva, FL

July 30 - August 2 Nantucket, RI

August 1 Belmar, NJ

Lobster Bash

Florida Keys Getaway!

Ha Ha Tonka Adventure

August 6 - 9 Bimini, Bahamas

August 8 - 14 Galleon Marina, Hawks Cay Marina, Duck Key

August 1 Lake of the Ozarks, MO

November 14 MarineMax Venice

Getaway! North

MasterCraft Surf Nights!

AquaPalooza

August 9 - 16 Montauk, NY | Newport, RI | Old Sandybrook, CT

Sep 5 Sunset Marina on Lake Keowee, SC

September 5 New Pass Sandbar, Sarasota, FL

MarineMax Brews, Boats & Bands

Fill the Boat Toy Drive

Yachts Weekend

November - December Check marinemax.com for your local store

December 11 - 13 Marina Jack, Sarasota, FL

LOCAL BREWERY

LOCAL BAND

October 16 - 18 BE A PART Charleston, SC OF THE FUN! OCT16-18 MarineMax Hall Marine Charleston

#MMXPETS

FRI: 10AM - 8PM | SAT: 10AM - 7PM | SUN: 1PM - 6PM

Now is the time to respark the excitement and interest in your business!

Spend the weekend with our boating community and be a part of our Lowcountry hospitality. Showcase your local creativity along the way befriending lifetime boating friends who may not have ventured into your store before.

Contact Diana De Carvalho at (843) 574-8922 or diana.decarvalho@marinemax.com to get your business on the list for the best weekend of the year.

UPCOMING

BOAT SHOWS MarineMax Hall Marine Charleston 142 Sportsman Island Drive | Charleston, SC 29492 | marinemax.com/charleston

For a complete list of local and virtual boat shows, visit marinemax.com/boatshows

Progressive Tampa Boat Show

Norwalk Boat Show

Fort Lauderdale Intl. Boat Show

September 11 - 13 Tampa, FL

September 24 - 27 Norwalk, CT

October 28 - November 1 Fort Lauderdale, FL

Leisure | Sea Ray

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MarineMax Lifestyles MarineMax Lifestyles

DISCOVER THE

POWER OF INNOVATION Pioneering Features and Breakthrough Advancements Distinguish Sea Ray’s New SLX-R 400e Outboard.

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ea Ray has raised the standard of boating once again by developing one of the most innovative and connected boats in the marine industry. Debuting earlier this year during CES 2020 and an NMMA Innovation Award winner, Sea Ray’s SLX-R 400e Outboard features cutting-edge technology, high-performance propulsion and elevated design accents for an exceptional on-water experience. The groundbreaking new model builds upon the orchestrated excellence of Sea Ray’s yacht-certified SLX 400, known as “The Entertainer” for its expansive social cockpit and ample entertainment zones.

The “e” in the SLX-R 400e Outboard model name designates a first-of-its-kind

boat electrification system – Fathom™ e-Power. Instead of a generator, the Fathom system includes a Mastervolt lithium-ion battery pack, consisting of four high-capacity marinized batteries, with intuitive power management capable of powering all of the boat’s accessory systems for approximately six hours. The Fathom system can be recharged using the boat’s alternator or shore power. The system provides you with a convenient, smart way to enjoy all of the features of the boat, for a longer, quieter and more eco-friendly day on the water. Using the sophisticated yet easy-to-operate user interface, you can monitor power usage and check how much charge is left.

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The SLX-R 400e Outboard is propelled by triple Mercury® Racing 450R outboard engines with Joystick Piloting for Outboards and NextWave™ innovations including Quiet Ride™ and Dynamic Running Surface™. Mercury’s Joystick Piloting facilitates effortless docking and maneuvering in tight waterways. The 450R engines deliver outstanding power density offering 450 horsepower from outboard engines that weigh as little as 689 pounds (313 kg), the best power-to-weight ratio for outboards rated 400 horsepower and above. The powerful engines provide unprecedented acceleration, enhanced handling and top speed potential with rugged reliability. The 4.6-liter V8 FourStroke powerhead is boosted by an exclusive Mercury Racing supercharger to produce 450 peak prop shaft horsepower.

Other technology highlights equipped on the SLX-R 400e Outboard include an optional Seakeeper 3 gyroscope for stabilization; Sea Ray Connect™ remote monitoring powered by NAUTIC-ON™; and a helm with Dual Digital Dash™ NSO evo3 16” displays, state-of-the-art Simrad® systems, and a premier Fusion® Apollo RA770 12V audio system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth®, Apple AirPlay® and Digital Signal Processing (DSP).

Enhancing the SLX 400 aesthetic, the SLX-R 400e Outboard showcases upscale design elements including exclusive SLX-R badging, premium carbon fiber accents, Shadow metallic hull paint with a red boot stripe, a black painted hardtop and legs, custom upholstery with red contrast stitching, red underwater lighting

and red accent lighting. Its best-in-class layout offers seating for 22 passengers and an abundance of storage space, including an enclosed compartment for watersports gear large enough to fit two full-sized paddleboards. Below deck, a generous cabin that sleeps four creates a comfortable space for you to escape the elements, relax or spend the night. The aft section features a queen-sized bed, the V-berth converts from a dining area to an additional sleeping area, and the spacious head with a shower ensures comfort during extended outings.

One of the most iconic amenities on the SLX-R 400e Outboard is the fold down swim terrace, a brilliantly designed wing of the hull on the starboard side that opens 90 degrees to expand the cockpit all the way to the water. The cockpit also offers a well-appointed customizable wet bar with a refrigerator and optional dual electric grills. An inviting sunpad extends the width of the transom and features a converting backrest that opens to face the swim terrace. The bow includes an optional sunshade for protection from midday rays along with a row of forward touring seats with armrests and cup holders that accommodates groups with ease. Additional forward benches surround a bow table that converts into a sunpad.

Sea Ray’s new SLX-R 400e Outboard delivers superior technology, unmatched performance, clever versatility and luxurious amenities ideal for a day, or even an overnight trip, on the water with family and friends. To learn more about the SLX-R 400e Outboard, visit marinemax.com/searay.

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Leisure | Aquila

KIDS AT HEART There’s nothing quite like putting a three-year-old in charge of a day on the water.

By Capt. Bill Pike / Photography by Austin Coit

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o here was the deal. The folks at MarineMax in St. Petersburg, Florida wanted to loan me their latest and greatest—an Aquila 32 Sport Power Catamaran—for a few days of cruising. But, due to scheduling difficulties, I couldn’t dig up a soul to go with me. My wife BJ, who had initially planned to take time off from work, was occupied with an unanticipated staff shortage. My neighbor Mike was occupied with local politics. And all of my colleagues were occupied with projects of their own. So, was I gonna have to go cruising all by my little ol’ self?

Then one fine morning, during breakfast, I got to thinkin’ about how, when I was a kid, I’d have no trouble skipping my morning bowl of Sugar Crisp if there was a boat ride in the offing.

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So, shoot! Apparently all the adults in my life had forsaken me.

What about a boat-lovin’ kid?

I dialed up Jesse Adams, a Ft. Lauderdale boat fanatic, ex-Navy vet and longtime buddy whose dad, Tommy Adams, used to build and race super-fast offshore screamers in the bad old days, right alongside Don Aronow, the famous powerboat maven.

Jesse had a three-year old son, a boaty little soul he’d named Strake, after one of the subtler, performance-boosting aspects on a high-performance planing vessel. Strake Adams? What a handle!

“Hey Jesse,” I said, “how would you and Strake like to go for a boat ride? You could drive up early and we’d spend the whole day cruising around St. Pete, pretty much doing whatever Strake wants to do. He’d be The Man for a day. Whataya think?”

There’s nothing like going fast.

Just ask Strake Adams.

BREAKFAST WITH AN ANGLER It was beautiful, that morning. We were all seated at a picnic table on the patio of the Sea Horse Restaurant, a stone’s throw from St. Pete’s Pass-A-Grille Marina where I’d parked our Aquila overnight.

There were four of us: Jesse, Strake, photographer Austin Coit and me. We’d already loaded up the boat for our jaunt with, among other things, hot dogs, mustard and buns (comprising one of Strake’s favorite entrees these days), bait (frozen shrimp, another of Strake’s favorites), PFDs, ice, drinks, a big drybag loaded with traveling supplies for toddlers (a term Strake considers altogether inappropriate), several spinning rods (fishing is yet another of Strake’s major-league enthusiasms) and an immense tackle box.

Now it was eggs-and-bacon time and, more importantly, time to put the finishing touches on the plan for the day.

Strake, whose stature is commensurate with his age, was standing atop his bench seat in order to get a better view.

Apparently, he found the Sea Horse clientele, an assortment of locals and Midwestern tourists, quite interesting. He was dramatically shading his eyes with the palm of his hand, sort of like Horatio Nelson or Black Bart, the pirate, might have done back in the day. “Ho, ho, ho,” he sang to himself, obviously in a cheery, expectant mood.

“You know,” advised our tall, bespectacled waitress, casting an accusatory look at both Jesse and his son, “I’ve seen children fall when they stand up on their seats like that.”

Obviously taken aback and perhaps a little embarrassed, Jesse politely apologized and, a little grudgingly, suggested Strake adopt a more conventional approach to picnic-table seating. No sense making waves, Jesse seemed to be thinking, no sense tossing a wrench into our little adventure right off the bat. Strake took his dad’s advice, but did so a little grudgingly as well.

Then, as the waitress began taking our orders, writing everything down on a notepad, she aimed another accusatory look at the arrangement of Strake’s silverware. “You know,” she advised again, “that knife is awfully close to that child—he could hurt himself or others.”

“It’s a butter knife,” Jesse fired back, his eyes widening. “The kid knows how to use a butter knife.”

Strake’s eyes widened, too. Then he carefully watched the waitress depart in a huff after she’d snapped her notepad shut. You had to wonder what the little fellow was thinking.

In a half hour or so, as the scrambled eggs came out, Strake discovered he’d forgotten to order the most genuine of all Florida beverages. “Can I please have some orange juice, ma’am?” he asked.

“Oh,” the lady replied, gazing down imperiously at him over her glasses, “you’re such a sweet little boy.”

The sugary nature of this possibly insincere statement was way too much to bear, at least for Strake. With his baseball cap slightly askew, he looked up at the waitress, stared straight into her eyes and announced defiantly, “I am not a sweet little boy … I’m a fisherman!”

The table erupted in laughter. The lad was one of us, no doubt about it. Three adults and a three-year-old, all of us kids at heart.

Strake sealed the deal when I posed a rather boring, grownup sort of question after the hilarity had died down. “Hey man, what’s the first thing you wanna do when we get back to the boat?”

“Poop my pants,” he immediately yelled, with an ear-to-ear grin. Then he began laughing at his own joke.

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STANDING UNDER THE PALMS Strake’s plan for the day seemed altogether reasonable. We’d go back to the marina, gas up and run (at full speed wherever possible) out to Egmont Key, a lovely, palm-shady island accessible from mainland Florida by boat only. Then, we’d zoom around Egmont, find a likely spot, ease the Aquila up on one of the long sandy beaches, get off the boat, wander around and, if there was time, check out the remains of old Fort Dade or the lighthouse farther north.

Then finally, before heading back to Pass-A-Grille (again, at full speed wherever possible) we’d back away, anchor off and indulge in a little fishing (with Strake’s prized frozen shrimp), a little swimming and a little hot dogging via the Kenyon electric grill in the Aquila’s port console.

“Well, Strake,” I said as the two of us surveyed an inviting stretch of white sand beyond the bow. “Are you ready to beachify?”

The little guy had had a great, hair-flying-in-the-wind ride out to the island—he’d obviously loved it. Then we’d done a spirited circumnavigation. And now, with both throttles at dead idle and the Mercs trimmed up, we were easing into the plan’s next phase.

But hey, King Neptune had other ideas. Not long after I’d nosed the Aquila ashore and we’d all disembarked, a wild-andcrazy guy in a big express cruiser rumbled past, pulling a giant wake. And the oomph of the wake promptly elbowed the Aquila’s stern slightly sideways, leaving her almost broadside to a lowly, yet powerful incoming swell.

This was not good, of course. And we collectively reacted with the speed of a seasoned infantry platoon under attack. Per his father’s instructions, Strake stood his ground, under some palm trees, in his signature-red sunglasses, with his arms folded across his chest, silently, stoically keeping tabs. The rest of us descended upon the Aquila’s port quarter and began pushing.

“Hey look,” said Jesse after a couple of minutes. “There’s a guy out there waving at us.”

I stepped back to look. Indeed, just a short distance offshore, there was a guy waving from the helm of a Grady-White runabout.

About the time I spotted him, he yelled, “Need a little help? I just saw what happened.”

Some jam-packed minutes ensued. Jesse swiftly converted all the mooring lines on board into a long towline and swam it out to the Grady. In the meantime, Austin kept pushing while I climbed

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aboard. Then, as the Grady brought us perpendicular to the beach, I lowered the Mercs, cranked ‘em and backed free. As I did this, I shot a glance in Strake’s direction—he was still standing there under the palms, all by himself, quietly, calmly watching, with his arms still folded.

“Man oh man,” I remember thinking, “most other three-yearolds would be freaking out right about now, yowling at the top of their lungs. But nope, not the Strakeman. He’s one calm, cool, collected customer.”

AN AFTERNOON WITH HUCK FINN Once we’d anchored the Aquila well offshore in the sandy depths that surround Egmont Key, Austin and I swam a few odds and sods back aboard from the beach while Jesse did the same with Strake and Strake’s Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 spinning rod.

Then, because it was well past noon and we were all radically famished, I tossed a bunch of hot dogs on the Kenyon and got the buns and mustard out of the fridge.

Strake made a poignant plea from the swim platform as I began herding the dogs back and forth with my trusty pocket knife.

He was standing next to his dad, waving the Ugly Stik. Thanks to the semi-submersible nature of the platform, he was knee-deep in the aquamarine waters while his dad’s shins were barely awash.

Strake, I noticed, handled the Stik with flair, although it seemed he was more into casting than actually catching at this stage of the game.

We did nothing productive—absolutely zilch—for the rest of the afternoon. We swam, fished and talked. And, despite his age and the fact that he’d totally blown past his afternoon nap, Strake lost his composure only one time. While sitting on the swim platform, controlling his spinning rod with one hand and downloading a hot dog with the other, he inadvertently knocked his plastic bag full of shrimp into the drink.

“My bait, my bait,” he wailed, pointing at the bag as the tide carried it off toward Tampico. “My bait, my bait.”

Sploosh!

“Here you go, buddy,” Jesse said, offering up the bag after diving in to make a quick save.

“Thanks, dad,” replied Strake. “Thanks a lot.”

The run back to the marina was much like the run we’d enjoyed en route to the island that morning, except for one thing.

While we zoomed along, maintaining a top hop of 32 knots per Strake’s wishes, I noticed that he’d fallen asleep, despite the fact that he was kneeling backwards on his half of the helm seat so he could watch our wake—all green, white and blue—swooping into the red, tropical sunset.

It was early evening when we finally arrived at Pass-A-Grille.

Jesse packed up his pickup truck—he and his son had a long drive back to Ft. Lauderdale ahead of them. And the last thing he carried ashore was Strake, sound asleep again, over his shoulder like a military duffel bag. As we shook hands and said so long, Strake perked up.

“I don’t wanna go home,” he said. “I wanna stay here with Capt. Bill and the boat.”

Certainly, it took us a while to get Strake to see why staying wasn’t an option. But that was cool. After all, he’d bailed me out of a big-time jam and, in doing so, had helped confirm something I’d only half suspected. Yup, a boat-lovin’ kid had indeed jumped at the chance to customize and enjoy his own cruise. And now the results were in. Not only had he had a ball, but I did too.

The Aquila 32 Sport Power Catamaran cuts a fine figure, while anchored off one of Egmont Key’s long sandy beaches.

At day’s end, on the trip back to St. Pete, Strake fell sound asleep despite his rather awkward position.

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Leisure | Harris, Crest, Bennington

Harris Crowne Series

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10 Reasons

WHY YOU NEED A PONTOON Able to cruise, tow watersports, hit impressive speeds — and still party like no other vessel — pontoon boats have never been more popular.

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ook around the next time you’re on the water. Pontoon boats are everywhere, cruising, fishing, pulling watersports junkies and, yes, still partying at the sandbar. It’s no exaggeration. The pontoon segment has been experiencing steady, sustained growth for years. In fact, it’s converting customers from other categories, enticing towsports fans, center-console anglers, even go-fast enthusiasts to come over to the dark, er, gleaming silver side.

How did this happen? And more to the point, what exactly might you be missing out on? Here are 10 reasons why you need to consider a pontoon.

1

VERSATILITY

While pontoons will always excel at cocktail hour, today’s offerings venture far beyond the old-school status quo. With their roomy decks, minimal draft and stable presence, pontoons make an ideal platform for fishing. Increasing horsepower and agile, V-hull-like handling pleases not just performance enthusiasts but extends the boat’s watersports repertoire to include skiing, tubing and wakeboarding. Triple pontoon packages can handle rougher, larger bodies of water and, with saltwater packages, enable pontoons to venture into coastal waters. In fact, pontoons may just be the ultimate crossover — one boat that can satisfy nearly everyone’s passions.

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CUSTOMIZATION

A pontoon’s rectangular platform is essentially a blank canvas, enabling buyers to choose a layout that fits their lifestyle and priorities rather than tailor those wants and needs to the confines of their boat. From the club-like lounge seating found on Harris’ Crowne or Crest’s Carribean series, to the bass seats/livewell focus of Bennington’s G22 Fish & Cruise, there’s literally a floorplan to match almost any desire.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Passenger capacity also tips in favor of the pontoon. Have that family get together without leaving anyone at the dock, let those teens invite their friends or host that client get-together after hours. A modern pontoon’s plush furniture and individual gathering areas let everyone join together or individual parties break off on their own. Sound systems are capable of pleasing even the most discerning audiophile.

Interior and exterior lighting options establish the mood after the sun sets.

4

STORAGE

Tired of finding a spot to fit all that stuff that inevitably finds its way aboard?

Pontoons take it all on, organizing everything out of sight below all that incredible seating while still maintaining convenient access when needed. Insulated coolers are at the ready, whether they’re permanent fixtures below the seats or one that you pack at home and slide under the helm console. Triple pontoon configurations can even take advantage of that center tube’s hollow space to provide massive, in-floor lockers, ready to swallow up skis, boards, and fishing equipment.

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SAFETY & STABILITY

With their wide beam and naturally stabilizing pontoon configuration, wakes and waves won’t rock a pontoon like they do a V-hull. That stability offers added peace of mind to passengers, as does perimeter fencing for those with little ones on board. And although modern performance and handling can be jaw-dropping, the average ride remains predictable and never intimidating.

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6

MAINTENANCE

Sick of waxing that shiny gelcoat? Any boat needs TLC but pontoons minimize the time and effort. There’s little, if any gelcoat to worry about fading or oxidizing from the sun. Aluminum pontoons typically need only seasonal care to keep looking bright and shiny. And though ideally they should always be protected by a cover when not in use, modern vinyls are easy to clean and protect with basic aftermarket products.

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OUTBOARD POWER

The vast majority of pontoon boats also feature outboard power, which is easier to maintain, service and winterize. Should you decide to upgrade down the road, replacing an outboard is also a relatively simple swap, allowing you to maintain your original investment in the boat itself.

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LESS PRONE TO DAMAGE

Pontoons naturally sit much higher in the water, where they aren’t as susceptible to damage from rocks, logs, or other debris below the surface. An impact that would crack fiberglass will often result only in a dent at best. Pulling up to a beach or sandbar also won’t wear or significantly mar the bottom surface like it can gelcoat and fiberglass.

Crest Twin Outboards

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INCLUSIVE PRICING

On a tight budget? Basic pontoon models, like Crest’s 20’ Classic LX, are surprisingly affordable. Models can also be configured to hit a wide variety of price points by choosing different horsepower alternatives, pontoon configurations and interior amenities.

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COOLNESS FACTOR

And if we haven’t convinced you by now, consider this: pontoon boats are cool.

Grandparents might still cruise past on their sunset cruise, but so too will twenty-somethings partying with friends, young families with kids, parents still connecting with teens (and their friends), and couples pulling up to the yacht club.

Need any more reasons? Check out our selection of models from industry leaders Bennington, Crest and Harris…you just might come up with a few more of your own.

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Leisure | Aviara

BORN to BREAKAWAY Aviara Continues to Elevate and Unveils Third Model in Inaugural Year – the AV40.

“We’ve methodically built a stunning collection of modern day boats to stand the test of time.”

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viara modernized the luxury day boat category with the brand debut and premiere of the AV32 earlier last year.

As a capstone to the successful inaugural year, Aviara unveiled its third premium luxury dayboat model, the AV40, at the 2020 Miami International Boat Show. The AV40 is the fusion of progressive style, modern comfort, and quality details to elevate luxury day boating to the next level of comfort, space, and stability on the water. It is the largest of the Aviara line-up and boasts added cabin space and dual folding deck terraces in addition to other features available on its counterparts, the AV32 and AV36.

“We achieved our goal: to create a luxury line within MasterCraft Boat Holdings’ portfolio that customers aspire to own” said Fred Brightbill, CEO and Chairman of MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc. “Aviara boats deliver the experience our customers expect – from the innovative engineering to sleek design, to a proven dealer distribution network. We’ve methodically built a stunning collection of modern day boats to stand the test of time.”

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The AV40’s dual terraces fold hydraulically with the push of a button to provide over 17 feet of width and the multi-position transom seats and patented fully adjustable barstool-style seating ensure everyone has room to play and no one misses the views. Captains enjoy hosting a crowd from the meticulously designed helm, with standard joystick controls and two propulsion options (twin IImor Marine sterndrives or triple Mercury outboards), and a premium Klipsch audio system with 10 8.5” speakers, 2 11” subs, 2 digital amps, and a digital signal processor (DSP) brings it all to life. The AV40 is available with all the features to entertain friends, family, and guests including a gourmet wet bar with dual grills and dual refrigerators, retractable cockpit TV, gyro stabilizer, heated seats, RGB lighting, power shade system, and power sunroof. Curated colors allow self-expression with color matched hardtops, bespoke billet aluminum handles, hardware, and accents in both black and silver, custom Versailles patterned Seadek flooring, and multiple options of CoolFeel vinyl, even in black.

The spacious cabin is a perfect place to relax away from the elements and has sleeping for 4 with a convertible lounger and a queen size memory foam mattress in the mid cabin. The cabin also features a 43 inch TV and soundbar, skylight, refrigerator, microwave, and wet head. The digital cabin controls can set the mood with RGB lighting or check the outside air temp, tank levels, or control the lights above deck all from the comfort below deck.

When underway the sturdy hull design and construction with deep gunnels and abundant freeboard offer an open

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yet safe and secure ride. The AV40 is 40’7” long, 12’3” wide, and approximately 23,800lbs dry making it well-mannered in very rough seas and equally capable of cornering at high speeds through the markers.

The AV40 provides the ultimate space to bring multiple generations together to enjoy extended time on the water. The AV40 equips owners to host a party for the big game, cook a gourmet meal, rest in the cabin, swim off the terraces, and take in the beauty of the water – all on the same day.

Aviara boats are American made in MasterCraft Boat Holdings’ world-class manufacturing facility in Vonore, TN – the winner of the 2015 BusinessWeek best plant in North America award, the only marine manufacturing facility ever considered for the award.

As the exclusive sterndrive partner to Aviara, Ilmor provides an elevated boating experience.

Forged in the fires of over 30 years in racing, Ilmor drives to push boundaries and change expectations both on the track and in the water. It’s this approach that allows Ilmor to make products lead the industry in quality, performance, and efficiency.

Ilmor’s revolutionary One-Drive® system sets the standard for sterndrive propulsion, providing astonishingly smooth and quiet operation. The elevated control of the Ilmor OneTouch® joystick gives greater maneuverability and precision for a confident experience every time you get on the water. Ilmor provides peace of mind with an industry-leading standard 5-Year/500-Hour Limited Warranty. Additionally, Ilmor offers an optional 7-year/1000 hour corrosion warranty on their standard closed cooled exhaust manifolds providing confidence no matter what water you boat in. In everything they do, Ilmor’s engineering excellence creates a difference you can see, hear, and feel.

An AwardWorthy Escape Our newest model and flagship of our collection, the AV40 was selected by Boating Industry as a 2020 Top Product.

This recognition reflects our commitment to Progressive Style, Elevated Control, Modern Comfort and Quality Details that created a class of its own.

AVIARABOATS.COM @aviaraboats MarineMax.com

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5 Ways to

STAYCATION LIKE A PRO Discover new adventures and celebrate the boating season without straying too far away from home.

N

ationally cooped up in the house for months is surely good enough reason this summer to celebrate on the water the first chance you get. And with social distancing remaining a cautionary measure across the states, it’s the perfect time to take a staycation this boating season.

Just you. The immediate fam. The pooch. The boat. Local waters.

A true staycation means touring places in your community never traveled before—or you never knew existed. Haven’t drifted down a particular river route? Lake zone? Or seaway?

Now is the time.

Staycations help cut travel costs, decrease the stress from mapping out long trips and save on navigational time. Can’t beat such summer solitude. But if you need more direction to carry out this neighborhood voyage, consider these all-inclusive waypoints and activities for leisure, fishing, yachting and watersports during hot days ahead.

1 WATCHING FIREWORKS AT...

Your town’s or city’s annual go-to location—just boat side. During Fourth of July, most municipalities hold local firework demonstrations to spectate from the water.

For more over-the-top skyline sparks, boaters near the Boston area can plan for the annual Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular. The country’s largest and oldest public Fourth of July event—and one of the biggest outdoor concerts in the world—includes a free concert and 24

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fireworks display. New Jersey boaters and watersports enthusiasts can watch another memorable fireworks extravaganza from Atlantic City’s Marina District and Boardwalk. Other water views to commemorate Independence Day: Minneapolis’ annual Red, White and Boom Festival; the Windy City’s firework and dinner cruises on Lake Michigan; and America’s Birthday Bash at Bayfront Park for 4th of July in Miami.

2 GRILLING ON BOARD AT...

Your favorite site for docking and dining.

This location may very well be your own backyard or a daytrip to a local park. Use your imagination. Turn grilling onboard into a classy affair over steaks and wine.

Whatever you grill, remember to do so safely. If you’re at a marina, make sure to check with marina staff before you fire up the grill.

MarineMax boaters have so many area options to eat first, explore after.

Floridians have Key West as a popular bearing to have supper, sail and sightsee from your boat. For those northbound yachting families, Newport, RI, is a fun staycation to experience seaside attractions and hometown tours all along the waterfront district.

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3 RIVER TUBING AT...

Endless riverways in your region. Those not-a-care-in-the-world moments often happen while floating down a river. This “lazy” adventure is popular in the South.

Georgia boaters can tube for days in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The mountains’ comfy weather conditions permit daylong journeys along the Nantahala, Toacca and Ocoee rivers. Down South detail: The Ocoee River is where the 1996 Olympic

Whitewater competitions took place.

So if you want to turn breezy drifting into a rapid rush, this watercourse is exactly where the pros did it. A few other tubing adventures to consider around the country: James River in Scottsville, Virginia; Guadalupe River in New Braunfels, Texas; and Tuckasegee and Oconoluftee rivers in Cherokee, North Carolina.

4 CATCHING WAVES AT...

Some of the most popular places to ride serious waves are on the East Coast for experienced surfers and newbies. South Carolina boaters will want to nestle in barrier island Folly Beach for a while. With waves historically reaching up to 10 feet, Folly Beach is known for “The Washout.” This narrow beach strip provides perfect surf conditions to shred waves and/or watch some of the dopest surfers in action. More epic oceanfronts to pursue: Cocoa Beach, FL, in what is referred to as the “East

Coast surf capital” of the U.S.; and Virginia Beach, VA—the birthplace of East Coast surfing and cradle to the East Coast Surfing Championships. Watersport junkies in The States’ south-central region can count on Austin, TX, for fast fun. Even though wakesurfing and wakeboarding hold the No. 1 and 2 spots in adoration throughout the “River City,” waterskiing, wakeskating and kneeboarding also have special places within its freshwater recreational world.

Add Austin’s largest lake, Lake Travis, onto your to-visit list, too. The nearly 65-milelong waterhole provides plenty of space.

5 SUNSET CRUISING AT...

Civil, nautical and astronomical twilight times along the Gulf Coast. As the sun is winding down to create some of the most psychedelic sky bursts, you can always have a front bow seat from Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Rich reds, oranges and yellows artfully collide during the summer season. A hot spot for waterfront views is 6,500-acre

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Gulf State Park. The park features multiple launch points, 2 miles of beach life and a fishing pier for various sunset outlooks.

Beach town Fort Morgan also offers a range of evening ambiences—from pastel to deep rainbow strokes painting its skies.

It's Easy‌and you could also win prizes!

1 1 |

Pick up your new MarineMax 2020 summer burgee

2

Take your favorite photos out on the water

3

Share #showusyourburgee

See all the fun at marinemax.com/showusyourburgee

MarineMax Lifestyles

MarineMax.com

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Dock & Dine

Indulge in these delicious recipes courtesy of Stock Island Marina Village.

AVOCADO TOMATO salad 1 avocado 8 baby heirloom tomatoes 1 lime 1-ounce julienned red onion 1-ounce olive oil 1 teaspoon salt & pepper to taste 2-ounces queso blanco (crumbled) 16 cilantro leaves

Score tomatoes with knife by making an ‘X’ on the top. Bring a pot with water to a boil, then blanch tomatoes for 4 seconds in ice water. Peel skin from tomatoes, discard, then place tomatoes with skins removed in bowl. Add lime juice, salt, pepper, cilantro, red onions, chopped avocado, and toss. Add oil and stir when ready to serve. Garnish with crumbled queso fresco.

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BLACKENED MAHI sandwich 1 brioche bun 1 mahi 4oz 2 large romaine or iceberg lettuce leaves 2 tomato slices 1 thin slice red onion 1 ounce lemon aioli blackened seasoning of your choice Lemon aioli: 1 cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon lemon marmulatta 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 pinch of salt

Heat up a nonstick pan over medium heat with a dash of olive oil or butter. While the pan is heating up, season fish to your tasting, then cook throughout making sure fish stays moist. Toast brioche buns and top with butter. Once fish is cooked, place on the bottom bun. Add aioli, lettuce, tomato, and red onion.

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~ PINEAPPLE JALAPENO mojito pineapple cubes 1 jalapeño 5 mint leaves 2-ounces plantation blonde rum ¼ ounce simple syrup soda water sprite lime wedge

Muddle one pineapple cube, a slice of jalapeño, and mint leaves.

Add rum, simple syrup and fill with soda water. Top with a splash of sprite and lime wedge garnish.

Chef Vel Born into a family of chefs with a passion for food, Executive Chef Vel Irizarry brings to the table a wealth of expertise — and positive energy. A graduate of the Florida Culinary Institute, Chef Vel immersed herself in the business at an early age and grew her knowledge and passion for food at prestigious resorts around the country, as well as her role as a private dining chef at PGA National Resort & Spa. Today, her

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influence is reflected in the custom prepared menu items featured at the Stock Island Marina Village’s three dockside restaurants: Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar, Salty Oyster, and their newest addition, The Barrel House, which sits above the latest expansion of the property featuring the property’s 2nd waterfront pool, event lawn with raised stage, and VIP Terrace.

discover a destination unlike any other.

The largest deep-water marina in the Florida Keys, Stock Island Marina Village is more than just a marina — it's a world-class destination. Featuring the award-winning Perry Hotel, two waterfront pools, three dockside restaurants, an entire village of experiences right at your fingertips, and 5-star service, we guarantee an unforgettable Key West getaway.

7001–702 5 S H R I M P R O A D, K E Y W E S T, F L O R I D A 33040 S T O C K I S L A N D M A R I N A .C O M

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P E R R Y KMarineMax.com E Y W E S T.C31 OM

Fishing | Boston Whaler

FOREVER

young

Seniors Deon Neighbors and Dot Vines go fishing on a Boston Whaler.

By Sue Rodman

D

elores (Deon) Neighbors and her friend since childhood, Dot Vines were fishing off the pier at Panama City Beach last year when Neighbors, who is 84, got tired of being tied to one spot. She turned to Vines, 93, and suggested they buy a boat so they could go fish in the bay.

Neighbors has been boating since she can remember. “As soon as I started walking well, my grandfather, William Carr took me out on the lake to fish,’ she said.

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At age 12, she began racing boats supped up by her parent’s friend who she called Uncle John. She won quite a bit with Uncle John’s Feathercraft with 10hp Mercury motor, but her racing career was cut short when a rule was instituted that you had to be 16 to race.

It was Neighbors who introduced Vines to the boating lifestyle. Vines and her husband Lewis spent weekends at the Neighbors’ cabin on Lake Martin in eastern Alabama, often cruising the lake

by boat. It was here that Vines learned to waterski, and Neighbors, who was always interested in all kinds of boats was able to expand her boating knowledge by watching the diversity of crafts on the lake.

Back on the pier, Vines thought about buying a boat for a bit then proclaimed it a wonderful idea. The decision on what boat to get was an easy one. Neighbors wanted a Boston Whaler and the 130 Super Sport fit the bill.

“I wanted something that Dot and I could go down to the sea in and wouldn’t sink. It was the safest boat I could think of—they’re unsinkable.”

“We’d been looking at Whalers for years, and when they redesigned the front of the boat I was ready to buy. Since Dot and I are small, the 13 foot was all the boat we needed to fish the canals and waterways.”

In 2019, the 130 Super Sport was redesigned from the keel up, with improvements that include lockable front-ofconsole storage, aft swim platforms, and a rear-accent hull color. In addition, there are a variety of seating configurations and options to best suit your favorite activities: fishing, watersports, cruising, lounging and beyond. A standard 40-hp Mercury FourStroke engine provides reliability and efficient power. What has not changed is the simple systems, ease of operation, and the unsinkability of a Boston Whaler.

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With the support of Vines, Neighbors went on the Internet to find the closest Boston Whaler dealer. In late August, the two women drove from Birmingham to the MarineMax Georgia store to take the 130 Super Sport out for a demo and make the purchase.

Neighbors and Vines customized their craft by adding cushioned bucket sport seats for a more comfortable ride, a console side seat cooler for their catch, and upgraded navigation. And although Neighbors is a fishing expert, she added the fish finder too.

“My husband Richard was a computer geek and he always thought I should be too. I find fish the old fashion way, but I thought I’d try the fish finder. Now I just need to learn how to use it,” she joked.

One upgrade the friends wish they’d put on the boat was the bow rails. The women thought it would be sportier without them, but in hindsight, it might make it easier for the octogenarian and nonagenarian to get in and out of the boat.

The 130 Super Sport also comes with a galvanized trailer. Neighbors drives an RDX Acura and likes how the boat pulls beautifully behind the car, even in traffic on I-285 in Atlanta.

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“You don’t even know it’s back there,” she said. “It’s easy to trail, and easy to get in and out of the water.”

The two friends have taken their new boat out on the bay in Panama City. There is a great place to fish for flounder in a lagoon outside St. Andrews State Park, but they have yet to fish the freshwater lakes around Birmingham. Vines may lay low for a bit, but Neighbors plans to take a friend to Logan Martin Lake in Pell City and Lake Guntersville to see which one she likes best.

The unstoppable ladies are already thinking about an upgrade to the Boston Whaler 160 Super Sport. After 40 years without a boat, Neighbors has learned a lot about what she really wants after spending some time on the 130.

“I’d customize it a bit differently,” said Neighbors. “I have some suggestions for Boston Whaler too. I think I can help them sell a lot more of these smaller boats.”

Make the

Journey your Destination

From th e bri lli antly capa b l e 3 8 0 rea l m t o t he Fu n-l o vi ng 1 6 0 S u per S port, Boston Whaler’s award-winning lineup offers something for every boater. Crafted with the latest navigation and propulsion technology, Whalers deliver effortless operation. And thanks to their spacious layouts, smart amenities and unsurpassed ride quality, every journey on a Whaler is its own reward.

F I N D Y O U R S AT W W W 2 . B O S T O N W H A L E R . C O M / R E WA R D I N G MarineMax.com

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Watersports | Nautique, TigĂŠ, ATX, MasterCraft

And the driving force is not Mother Nature, but technology... found in the latest and greatest wakesurf boats.

MarineMax Lifestyles Lifestyles 36 36MarineMax

MarineMax.com MarineMax.com 37 37

TigĂŠ 23 RZX

MasterCraft X26

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ATX 22 TYPE-S

Grab a Board...

Just Not Any Board While wakesurfing may look and feel like real surfing, conventional surfboards aren’t ideal for a boat’s manmade waves. That’s why you’ll want to invest in a quality wakesurf-specific board. Here are a few areas to consider.

For starters, choose a style.

Beginners, or those who want a more conventional surf-style ride will want, what else, a surfstyle board. They’re thicker, more buoyant, and typically offer larger, surf-style fins. Advanced riders, or those who prefer a more freestyle-oriented ride, may benefit from a skim-style board. Like their beach-going counterpart, they’re shorter, thinner and features smaller fins, making them ideal for spin tricks like 360s, or skate-style tricks like ollies and shuv-its.

Nautique Super Air Nautique G21

A board’s design also reveals a lot about how it will ride. Rocker, or tip-to-tail curvature, determines the board’s response. A flatter rocker will produce quicker acceleration across the water; more pronounced rocker will be slower but easier to maneuver.

The rail, or board edge, also deserves consideration. Rounder rails turn slower, while sharper rails feel more responsive and maneuverable.

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Vacations | British Virgin Islands

TICKLED

pink

A Louisiana couple finds other people’s boats keep them in the boating lifestyle they love, both at home and abroad.

By Liz Pasch

R

ichard and Sherri Allen sold their boat in 2019 but they had no intention of abandoning the boating lifestyle they’d enjoyed for more than 20 years. The couple is based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and have friends that own a 60-foot motoryacht that Richard captains a fair amount of the time. They also became interested in chartering other people’s boats to cruise areas their previous boat was not large enough to reach. Their research led them

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MarineMax Lifestyles

to speak with other boaters who had charter experience, and MarineMax Vacations was recommended more than any other charter company.

The Allens began their planning in the fall of 2017 and booked a charter for the next year’s July 4th week in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). “We invited three other couples; all of us knew each other previously,” says Sherri and adds that the group shared in the planning process, but Richard was the primary communicator

“One of the best things about the BVI is that you’re never out of sight of an island, so it’s not like being in the middle of the ocean without seeing land...”

with the MarineMax Vacations representative. “Tammy Worthing made it really easy for us and answered all our questions.

She’s very good at what she does.” The whole group agreed that the MarineMax 484 would be most conducive for their group of four couples.

The Allen group flew to the neighboring island of St. Thomas (STT) in the U. S. Virgin Islands and instead of taking the large group ferry to the BVI, they chartered a private ferry through Dolphin Water Taxi. “Dolphin met us at the airport to take us to the ferry. It was a little more expensive, but we didn’t have to pay for a hotel in St. Thomas to take the public ferry the next morning.” Sherri adds, “They took us directly to the MarineMax base on Nanny Cay Marina where we cleared customs. It made the arrival part so easy.”

The whole charter process continued to be simple and straightforward. The ladies explored the area and picked up a few last-minute items they had forgotten to put on their provisions list while their husbands enjoyed the fun, captains’ certification presentation. The presenter even inflated the large, pink flamingo floating raft they planned to use while moored in the bays. Another advantage to the private ferry was the ability to stay on the boat the first night and get accustomed to the boat while docked in the marina. Once they were on the boat and saw the boat setup, the bar on the back and the watermaker, they knew the 484 was the perfect powercat for their charter.

MarineMax provides all guests with a cruising itinerary, but the Allen clan came up with their own which, according

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to Sherri, is one of her husband’s favorite parts of the experience. The first night they went to Cooper Island and then onto Leverick Bay, where they spent two nights.

They chose to take the water taxi to The Baths since some of their group weren’t comfortable with the moorings there and getting in and out of the dinghy. Then they took the open-air taxi, which enabled them to see more of Virgin Gorda.

While the raw beauty of The Baths is certainly a not-to-be-missed sight, according to Sherri, Oil Nut Bay is the best place in the whole BVI, and she highly recommends planning a visit. “It’s a private resort but we were allowed to use it since so many places were still being repaired after Hurricane Irma, including Scrub Island,” says Sherri. “The water was so beautiful around the other side of Bitter End at this five-star resort. It’s very expensive but really fabulous.”

Sherri says the BVI is like nowhere you’ve ever been. “One of the best things about the BVI is that you’re never out of sight of an island, so it’s not like being in the middle of the ocean without seeing land,” which is especially reassuring to boaters who’ve never ventured beyond their familiar, close-to-shore cruising areas.

Experience the Trip of a Lifetime! marinemax.com/tripofalifetime

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Other highlights include mooring in Great Harbor on Jost Van Dyke, watching bartenders at the Soggy Dollar make Painkillers by the dozens, and a memorable last night at the Willie T. This BVI trip was so successful, in fact, that three of the four couples are repeating the experience as soon as they can. “We’ll spend one week with the friends and are bringing our kids for the second week,” says Sherri, who said there’s only two things they’d change for the next trip. “Next time we’ll leave the pink flamingo at home! It was more trouble than it was worth.” The other lesson learned was to pack much less. “You will not wear what you think you will. We basically only needed swimsuits and a coverup.” Furthermore, Sherri says taking the private water taxi rather than the public ferry made all the difference in starting the trip off right. “It was a game-changer.”

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Yachting | Galeon

BUILT TO IMPRESS Striking looks, craftsmanship and innovation describe the Griffith’s Galeon 425 HTS.

By Pim Van Hemmen

G

ene and Kathy Griffith of Naples, Florida, had a 2017 Boston Whaler 345 Conquest. It was a great boat, their second Whaler, but after a couple of years they sold it.

“It didn’t fit how we wanted to be on the water,” Gene says.

They’d purchased the Whaler from MarineMax salesman Diamond Neeley, so they went to a MarineMax display and discovered the Galeon 425 HTS.

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“It was bigger, had more comfort, allows two, even three people at the helm, everybody can see out, it’s bright, well-appointed and has two nice cabins,” says Gene. “We liked all of that, and the two bathrooms.”

The Griffiths were thrilled Neeley was able to help them with the Galeon sale too.

“He took us out on our first Galeon sea trial,” Gene says. “He did a nice job, and we’re really happy with the boat.”

Kathy really likes the boat’s looks. “My favorite feature is the overall beauty of the boat,” she says. Gene’s favorite is the Volvo Penta IPS pod system. “It really makes it nice to operate in tight quarters,” he says.

The Galeon is the Griffiths’ fourth boat and they love the fit and finish.

“I think the craftsmanship is outstanding...The quality of the woodwork, the fixtures in the bathroom. They’re among the best that I’ve seen.”

Galeon was founded in Poland in 1982 by the Kobyłko family when they purchased a company that built lasers. Under communist rule, Poland was a maritime and shipbuilding nation, but after the fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989 the Polish boat building industry exploded.

In the 1990s the Kobylko family decided to solely focus on Galia, its outboard-powered brand and Galeon, its inboard-powered brand. Poland’s boatbuilding industry is now one of the largest in the world—employing around 40,000 people and producing more than 20,000 yachts and pleasure craft annually—and a Polish label is now regarded as high quality, innovative and elegant, with Galeon considered one of the top brands.

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Handcrafted by Polish artisans, using a combination of traditional techniques and modern technologies, 1,400 employees in two factories build dozens of models for the European and American markets.

“They do a great job,” says Gene. “The floors are all wood and finished really well.

The trim is really nice.

The seats are well-designed and a beautiful part of the overall boat.”

Almost everything is built at Galeon, which translates to greater control and higher quality. “I’ve never seen the kind of vertical integration that I’ve seen at Galeon,” says MarineMax’s Galeon Yachts Brand Manager Bob Burke, who spent a good chunk of his career with two other highly respected boat builders.

Besides craftsmanship, innovation is another reason Galeons are so popular. On the Skydeck models, the push of a button opens up the roof fore and aft allowing owners to walk up to a sport bridge. Many models have features usually only found on much larger yachts.

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One of those is “beach mode” which is available on the 400, 500 and 640 Fly and 470, 510 and 650 Sky. Again, at the push of a button, the aft side decks fold down as the salon windows slide forward, widening the boats’ beams by 35 percent or more and creating cantilevered balconies over the water that open up an entertainment area from midship to the swim platform.

The Griffiths are among the many buyers who love their Galeon and feel confident using it. “We just got it at the end of February and took it down to Key West,” says Gene. “It was a great trip, a Galeon Rendezvous. On the way back, the waves were a little bigger, 3 to 4 feet, and the boat could handle that. We’ve been in waves as high as 7 or 8 feet. I don’t want to be out in that, but it handles it better than other boats that size,” he says.

680 FLY

425 HTS

470 SKY

640 FLY

EXPERIENCE

INNOVATION With a passion to innovate, Galeon Yachts creates class leading, award winning, and game changing designs.

Our yachts embody this passion as well as a rich culture of quality, craftsmanship and engineering. As each new model is released, Galeon continues to shatter expectations.

galeonyachts.us MarineMax.com

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Yachting | Azimut

MarineMax Lifestyles Lifestyles 48 48MarineMax

Lucky 7 For one happy owner the Azimut S7 combines performance, style and cruisability in the perfect package.

P

ete Ellis knows boats. The serial entrepreneur has a solid history as a raceboat driver, and is very comfortable on the water. As such, he knows what he wants in a yacht.

Ellis has owned many boats, and was recently coming out of a Princess 67 before he came across his current Azimut S7. “Princess makes a great boat, don’t get me wrong,” Ellis says, “but I wanted something different in terms of style—interior and materials—I didn’t want the same thing that I had, let’s put it that way.” Enter the S7.

That yacht, part of Azimut’s ever-popular S series, which encompasses the S6, S7, 77S, S8 and Grande S10, is a sleekly lined, 70-foot, 1-inch, yacht with triple Volvo Penta D13 IPS1050 engines.

For Ellis, once he stepped aboard, it was love at first sight. “The boat is so alive in the interior,” he says. “When you walk in and you see the design and the windows, even when you look outside from the interior, it’s very refreshing. You just feel like you’re styling when you’re in that boat.”

It’s the perfect boat for the South Florida lifestyle that Ellis and his wife

lead. The couple, who moved from New York City to Miami a few years back, keeps their boat at the Bahia Mar Marina in Fort Lauderdale. That marina, which Ellis describes as “great,” is an ideal jump off point for the Ellis’s favorite cruising destination, the Bahamas.

The couple gets to the islands a few times a year. They like to spend a couple of months in Nassau and then cruise the Exumas, a big part of why they’ve already put 600 miles on their yacht. “Nassau is just a good hopping off point for the rest of the islands,” says Ellis. “You get to see some picturesque water. I love that in the summertime the water gets up as high as 93 degrees. There’s plenty of places to anchor and the water is so clear you can see the bottom. There’s so many places to explore, Staniel and Highborn and Georgetown, which is way south in the Exumas, it’s a pretty good shot from Nassau, but it’s a real cruiser place. In the wintertime it fills up, all sorts of boats anchor there. It’s a great place to anchor. And I enjoy anchoring for part of my trips, it’s a lot of fun to just drop anchor and make that home for a while.”

MarineMax.com MarineMax.com 49 49

And that’s important to know about Ellis’s S7. Many European, and especially Italian, builds catch a rap, rightly or wrongly, as vessels used mainly for dayboating. But Ellis has found his Azimut to be quite the contrary.

“I bought a boat to go cruising, not dayboating,” Ellis says with a chuckle, “I want to go to the Bahamas and the Keys and spend weeks at a time onboard. This boat is a great cruising boat. There’s so much room. I love it. My wife loves it. We couldn’t be happier with our decision. My wife calls it the penthouse. That’s how it feels, like a penthouse. The little touches that they put on it, the marble and the design features and the things they’ve done in the stateroom to give it more depth is terrific. The showers get hot instantly.

That’s a pretty nice little feature. You don’t waste any water. The other thing I like is that the barbecue is in the cockpit. So it’s right there and easy to use. We also like our bowdeck, which has a big sunpad and a couch with a bimini—we hardly ever have to leave the main deck.”

Ellis is equally appreciative of the S7’s performance. “I was used to cruising around 19 knots, but now we go 28 to 30 knots”, he explains. “And she handles beautifully. It’s just a great ride, lots of fun to drive.” The owner was wary of pods at first because of maintenance, but hasn’t

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found that to be an issue at all—a measured risk that worked out happily.

Ellis has also found the boat to be agreeable from a captaincy angle. “I’m an owner-operator, and this boat is really easy to handle and dock for me. Most of the people I take out aren’t necessarily all that knowledgeable about boat handling, so I do most of it myself, and honestly it’s a breeze.”

MarineMax has also been a breeze for Ellis. “They’ve been really good to us. The salesman I work with, Darren Phillips, is a real boater. Darren has become part of my life with that boat. Any issues, anything I’m trying to learn, I call him up and we figure it out. It’s a real advantage.” What boater could want any more?

AZIMUT S7 _ Carbon-Tech AZIMUT YACHTS OFFICIAL DEALER: MARINEMAX - marinemaxyachts.com

Exterior Design _ Stefano Righini Interior Design _ Francesco Guida A brand of AZIMUT BENETTI Group

azimutyachts.com MarineMax.com

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Yachting | Ocean Alexander

26R

RECONFIRMING THE REVOLUTION The 26R Further Establishes the Revolution of Ocean Alexander Yachts.

By Allyson Goolsby

T

hrough the decades, Ocean Alexander has been known for many things. Things like quality, reliability, detailed craftsmanship and gorgeous yacht design come to mind when people think about Ocean Alexander yachts. Those qualities are evident, now more than ever, in the newly debuted 26R (formerly introduced as the 84R).

The 26R is the second yacht in the popular Revolution series and was master-

MarineMax Lifestyles Lifestyles 52 52MarineMax

fully designed by Evan K. Marshall and his team. With its sleek, modern design, the Revolution series is just that – a revolution.

While the series retains Ocean Alexander DNA, its bold, innovative design markedly differs from what Ocean Alexander has previously produced. And since its debut, the Revolution series has definitively turned the head of the yachting industry worldwide.

One of the most striking features of the Revolution series is the vertical bow.

The vertical bow expands living space without compromising the incomparable performance and efficiency Ocean Alexander is known for. You can’t help but notice the volume of space when you step aboard the 26R, with a Gross Tonnage of 160, over 20% larger than our competition, the 26R is the ideal place for family cruising and entertaining guests.

Walking into the main salon, the enormous windows are sure to command your attention with stunning, unobstructed views of the sea. The main salon effortlessly transitions into the galley and dining area with an open concept layout emphasizing the volume of the space. The galley is fit with gorgeous stone counters and flooring, stainless steel appliances and maximum storage for provisions.

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The 26R just keeps getting better as you move down to the four luxurious staterooms below, each with their own private head. It’s in the forward VIP stateroom where the expanded space from the vertical bow is most noticeable. As you move aft, you’ll find two more staterooms with beds that can come together or apart in order to accommodate guests. And finally, the impressive master stateroom boasts phenomenal views of its own, and the finishing’s in the stone-clad master head are pure perfection.

As you head to the bridge deck, you’ll find the helm equipped with top of the line touchscreen Garmin Navigation. Both the enclosed skylounge and open flybridge options provide you with the ultimate entertainment space. Each are complete with comfortable seating areas, a wet bar, hot tub and custom-made grill. But the 26R is not only beauty and luxury. It’s power as well. With twin MAN V12 1650HP engines, the 26R will get you where you want to go.

The debut of the 26R, along with the rest of the Revolution series, has given Ocean Alexander an unprecedented international appeal and has truly elevated the standard of what can be achieved in yacht design. Ocean Alexander will continue to create, innovate and produce the highest quality yachts, as they have done for the last four decades. Looking toward the future, there is an eager anticipation for what’s next from Ocean Alexander.

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Yachting | Benetti

FREEDOM TO EXPLORE The Benetti Delfino 95 capitalizes on centuries’ worth of excellence in Italian yachtbuilding.

By Kim Kavin

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B

enetti Yachts has evolved its Delfino 93 design into the new Delfino 95, which is heading to U.S. shores as an option for MarineMax customers this year. The fourdeck Delfino 95 expands the creature comforts, natural light and relaxation options for which Benetti is already known—a noteworthy accomplishment, given that Benetti is one of the most storied shipyards in all of Italy.

“It’s an aspirational brand, even among aspirational brands,” says Chuck Cashman, Chief Revenue Officer at MarineMax. “When you think about 100foot boats, there’s a lot of nice boats, but within that, they stand out.”

Founded in the late 1800s, Benetti has built everything from early sailing vessels to some of today’s most astounding superyachts. Since 1985, the brand has been part of the Azimut-Benetti Group, whose shipyards and production facilities cover more than 5 million square feet of space. The Benetti brand represents the megayacht division of the Azimut-Benetti Group, creating yachts in composite, steel and aluminum, and claiming the title of the world’s No. 1 builder of megayachts.

The Delfino 95 brings smart new touches to that legacy of excellence. The yacht has exterior design by Giorgio Cassetta, who has worked with Benetti since 2013. Cassetta has designed more than 30 yachts, including some that are more than 300 feet long. He infused the Delfino 95 with all of his knowledge about creating a superyacht ambience with smart features.

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Consider, for instance, the Delfino 95’s foredeck. On some motoryachts, this area is reserved entirely for crew use, even though it can offer the most sweeping views from on board, as well as a great deal of privacy at marinas where the yacht is docked stern-to. Cassetta maximized the foredeck’s fun factor by designing a sunbathing area with room for an optional hot tub. What better place to relax with a glass of champagne and take in the scenery?

Outdoor space is also expanded on the main and upper decks, both of which have aft spaces dedicated to guest relaxation. Far aft at water level is a tender garage that opens at anchor to create a beach club ideal for swimming, launching tenders and water toys, or simply relaxing with yet another outdoor view.

Inside, the Benetti Delfino 95 has five staterooms for 10 guests. The master stateroom is forward on the main deck, spanning the yacht’s 23-foot beam with a desk to starboard and a sitting area to port, taking advantage of incoming natural light from the hull-side windows. The remaining four guest staterooms are belowdecks.

All of these staterooms are ensuite as well, with two being designed for couples and two set up with twin berths.

The overall layout makes this yacht a fantastic option for families, including multigenerational families that want to have their own space on board while still coming together in common areas. And the yacht’s draft of 6 feet, 2 inches means those family cruises can take place just about anywhere the owner desires.

Benetti’s Interior Style Department will work with owners to define and create an ambience that is customized to their personal taste. As just one example, on Hull No. 5 of the Delfino 95, christened Baya, the owner wanted to alternate among ash, eucalyptus and tay woods—while incorporating details in polished brass—for a chromatic effect that emphasizes the materials as much as the color palette. Baya’s owner also worked with Benetti on the design of the 10-guest dining table, as well as a wine cellar for stowing favorite bottles of whites and reds in the galley. The team at Benetti personalized every detail of the décor, right down to the leather-decorated headrests in the master stateroom’s bed.

Also noteworthy about the Delfino 95 is that Benetti achieved all of these guest-experience enhancements without sacrificing crew space or performance.

The Delfino 95 has three crew cabins for a total of five crew, all located forward on the lower deck to stay out of the way of guest areas. Side decks to port and starboard on the main deck ensure that crew can perform their duties without intruding on guest spaces, and the enclosed upper deck and open sundeck helms give the captain options for operating the yacht in virtually all weather conditions.

According to Benetti, with twin 1,000hp MAN V-8 engines, the Delfino 95 has a range of about 2,400 nautical miles at a comfortable cruise speed of 10 knots— putting extended cruising itineraries and extensive island-hopping easily within reach. When speed is of the essence, the Delfino 95 can be pushed to 13.5 knots, Benetti says.

“The 95 is what Benetti calls a pocket megayacht,” Cashman says. “It’s got a lot in it for a boat around 100 feet. Benetti builds to over 100 meters—they build gigayachts.

There’s only a handful of builders in the world that build gigayachts. The Delfino 95 is all the benefits of that knowledge, but in a 95-foot package.”

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MarineMax App

BOATING MADE EASY The new MarineMax App is here!

T

he MarineMax App has one goal: to help boaters indulge in their passion for the water. With the touch of a finger, you can easily connect with a local MarineMax store and order services for your vessel such as routine maintenance, boat wash, fuel fill-up, and repair or upgrade projects. You can even access a full lineup of boats for sale and a list of upcoming classes, events, and Getaways!® “The boating industry continues to advance. From smart-tech-systems on boats to the new MarineMax App, the idea

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is to help customers spend more time on the water and less time taking care of their boat,” states Shawn Berg, MarineMax Chief Digital Officer. “The app serves as a platform to request anything and seamlessly communicate with your local store. From routine maintenance, requesting a wash or fuel, to a full repair, you can instantly chat with boating experts for an exceptional customer experience.”

MarineMax recently acquired the pioneering Boatyard digital platform to transform the boating customer experience, creating a new way for boat owners

to enjoy their passion, wherever and whenever they want. Built around the Boatyard acquisition, the new MarineMax Customer Experience Platform will be led

by Boatyard Founder and CEO Nathan Heber, now President of Boatyard at MarineMax. The MarineMax App is available for download through the Google Play and Apple App stores. You may also visit marinemax.com/app for more information.

YOU’RE A LONG WAY FROM WORK, DOROTHY.

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Anyone can sell you a boat. MarineMax supports our boat owners with a team of experts who ensure you enjoy boating to the fullest.

TEAM SUPPORT: We don’t have corporate headquarters; we have Team Support — a group of over 100 individuals dedicated to supporting our stores and boat owners.

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SALES CONSULTANT: I love boating. I take pride in listening to how you like to boat. Using my extensive experience, we’ll find the right boat for you.

EVENTS AND GETAWAYS!® COORDINATOR: We have so much fun helping people enjoy their boats from a weekend cruise to a nearby destination to a week-long adventure to an exotic resort.

FINANCE AND INSURANCE PROFESSIONAL: I’m here to walk you through your finance and insurance options as well as make sure the paperwork and registration is taken care of for you.

SALES CONSULTANT: Getting the right boat is important. However, having the MarineMax Team standing behind the sale adds value that makes ownership a pleasure beyond taking delivery.

Meet the Team! marinemax.com/ourteam

GENERAL MANAGER: I know how much it means to get on the water hassle-free. I make sure my team can focus on what is most important: getting you out on the water.

MARINEMAX VACATIONS: A British Virgin Islands charter will take you out of the ordinary and into the extraordinary. I’ll take care of everything — from planning your adventure to your arrival back at our docks.

DELIVERY CAPTAIN AND INSTRUCTOR: My goal is for you and your family to be comfortable with your boat. I provide a detailed walk through of your boat on the day of delivery and classes for everyone in the family.

FACTORY-CERTIFIED SERVICE PROFESSIONAL: I am a boater too and I know you want to be on the water, enjoying what you and I love most. My factory certifications help me keep your boat in top shape.

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Featured Boats & Yachts

2019 Azimut S6

2019 Azimut S7

2019 Azimut 55 Flybridge

2019 Azimut Atlantis 51

2019 Galeon 560 SKY

2019 Galeon 510 SKY

2019 Galeon 500 FLY

TO VIEW THESE AND OTHER LISTINGS, VISIT MARINEMAXYACHTS.COM

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2019 Galeon 470 SKY

2019 Azimut Verve 40

2019 Sea Ray SLX 400 OB

2019 Beneteau GT40

2019 Boston Whaler 380 Outrage

2019 Sailfish 360 CC

2019 Sea Ray Sundancer 350 Coupe

2019 Wellcraft F352

2019 Scout 300 LXF

2019 NauticStar 28 XS Offshore

2019 Harris Grand Mariner 270

2019 Bennington 25SSRX

2019 MasterCraft XT25

2019 Sea Ray SPX 230

2019 Tigé ZX1

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT MARINEMAX.COM OR CALL (877) 491-9919

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Find a MarineMax location near you.

ALABAMA Gulf Shores 3829 Gulf Shores Pkwy Gulf Shores, AL 36542 (251) 981-1113 CONNECTICUT Brookfield Bay Marina 476 Candlewood Lake Rd Brookfield, CT 06804 (203) 740-2628 Norwalk 130 Water St Norwalk, CT 06854 (203) 831-6311 Westbrook 627 Boston Post Rd Westbrook, CT 06498 (860) 399-5581 FLORIDA Cape Haze 7090 Placida Rd Placida, FL 33946 (941) 485-3388 Clearwater 18025 U.S. 19 North Clearwater, FL 33764 (727) 536-2628 Cocoa 1410 King St Cocoa, FL 32922 (321) 636-3142 East Florida Yacht Center 490 Taylor Lane Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 926-0308 Fort Myers 14030 McGregor Blvd Fort Myers, FL 33919 (239) 481-8200 Fort Walton Beach 14 SW Miracle Strip Pkwy Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 (850) 760-0300 Jacksonville at Beach Marine 2079 Beach Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32250 (904) 338-9970 Miami 700 NE 79th St Miami, FL 33138 (305) 758-5786

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Miami Beach 300 Alton Rd Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 921-0002 Naples 1146 6th Avenue South Naples, FL 34102 (239) 262-1000 Ocean Reef 2 Fishing Village Dr Key Largo, FL 33037 (305) 367-3969 Orlando 455 S. Lake Destiny Rd Orlando, FL 32810 (407) 660-2628 Palm Beach at PGA Marina 2361 PGA Blvd Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 494-7267 Panama City Beach 3605 Thomas Dr Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 708-1317

GEORGIA Cumming 1860 Bald Ridge Marina Rd Cumming, GA 30041 (770) 781-9370 Savannah 3518 Old Tybee Rd Thunderbolt, GA 31410 (912) 897-9881 MARYLAND Baltimore 1800 S. Clinton St Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 732-1260 MASSACHUSETTS Boston Bay Pointe Marina 64 Washington Ct Quincy, MA 02169 (617) 288-1000 Danvers 10 Hutchinson Dr Danvers, MA 01923 (781) 395-0050

Pensacola 1901 Cypress St Pensacola, FL 32502 (850) 477-1112

MINNESOTA Bayport 200 Fifth Avenue South Bayport, MN 55003 (651) 351-9621

Pompano 700 South Federal Highway Pompano Beach, FL 33062 (954) 783-9555

Excelsior 141 Minnetonka Blvd Excelsior, MN 55331 (952) 346-4857

Pompano Yacht Center 750 South Federal Highway Pompano Beach, FL 33062 (954) 618-0440

Rogers 20300 County Rd 81 Rogers, MN 55374 (763) 428-4126

Sarasota 1601 Ken Thompson Pkwy Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 388-4411

MISSOURI Lake Ozark 3070 Bagnell Dam Blvd Lake Ozark, MO 65049 (573) 365-5382

St. Petersburg 6810 Gulfport Blvd St. Petersburg, FL 33707 (727) 343-6520 Stuart 2370 SW Palm City Rd Stuart, FL 34994 (772) 287-4495 Venice 1485 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34285 (941) 485-3388

Osage Beach 4543 Osage Beach Pkwy Osage Beach, MO 65065 (573) 348-1299 NEW JERSEY Brant Beach Service Center 20 W. 44th St Brant Beach, NJ 08008 (609) 494-2838

Brick 101 Riverside Dr N Brick, NJ 08724 (732) 840-2100 Lake Hopatcong 134 Espanong Rd Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849 (973) 663-2045 Ocean View 2602 Shore Road (Route 9) Ocean View NJ 08023 (609) 624-1117 Ship Bottom 214 West 9th St Ship Bottom, NJ 08008 (609) 494-2102 Somers Point 600 Bay Ave Somers Point, NJ 08244 (609) 926-0600 NEW YORK Huntington 155 West Shore Rd Huntington, NY 11743 (631) 424-2710 Manhattan Chelsea Piers, Pier 59 West 23rd and Hudson River New York, NY 10011 (212) 336-7873 Amityville Service Center 144 Ocean Avenue Amityville, NY 11701 (631) 957-5900 NORTH CAROLINA Lake Norman 9209 Westmoreland Rd Cornelius, NC 28031 (704) 892-9676 Wrightsville Beach 130 Short St Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 (910) 256-8100 OHIO Port Clinton 1991 N.E. Catawba Rd Port Clinton, OH 43452 (419) 797-4492 OKLAHOMA Grand Lake 56300 E. 280 Rd Monkey Island, OK 74331 (918) 782-3277

RHODE ISLAND Newport 10 Bowen’s Wharf Newport, RI 02840 (401) 782-9100 Wakefield Silver Spring Marina 362 Pond St Wakefield, RI 02879 (401) 783-0783 SOUTH CAROLINA Charleston 142 Sportsman Island Dr Charleston, SC 29492 (843) 747-1889 Greenville 14 Burty Rd Greenville, SC 29605 (864) 236-9005 Lake Wylie 310 Blucher Circle Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2101 TEXAS Austin 12971 U.S. 183 Austin, TX 78750 (512) 258-0733 Dallas 1490 N. Stemmons FWY Lewisville, TX 75067 (972) 436-9979 Dallas Yacht Center 1481 E. Hill Park Rd Lewisville, TX 75056 (469) 293-9095 Houston 3001 NASA Pkwy Seabrook, TX 77586 (281) 326-4224 Lakeway 1106 Ranch Road 620 North Lakeway, TX 78734 (512) 266-1515 San Antonio 141 Balcones North San Antonio, TX 78201 (210) 734-8199

REPRESENTING

THE WORLD’S FINEST BRANDS

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MAKE WAY FOR THE NEW FLAGSHIP Super-sized and super powered, the Axiom XL range is the pinnacle of modern helm integration and situational awareness.

Visit raymarine.com/axiomxl to find your Axiom XL and get underway with Raymarine.

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