FALL 2018
A E S
, A C S N O S
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BRADLEY STRONG, CATCHING PORGY OFF THE DOCK AT STRONG'S YACHT CENTER PHOTO BY: TIFFANY STRONG - SUMMER 2018
Seasons Change BUT MEMORIES ARE FOREVER
November 2018 Dear friends and fellow boaters, I hope you’ve enjoyed this delightful boating season! This summer, Re and I celebrated our 40th anniversary with a very special trip to Mykonos, St. Tropez and Lake Como. Spending time on the water in those spectacular places was an experience we’ll never forget – but it also made us appreciate just how fortunate we are to do our local boating in the glorious waterways of the Long Island region. This season, it was so gratifying to help a record number of new and returning clients find the perfect boat for their individual lifestyle. If trading in and trading up is on your mind, the fall season is truly the best time to buy: with your current boat at its highest value, you can avoid service and storage bills and put your equity and savings toward the boat of your dreams. Contact your sales consultant or see strongsmarine.com for details. I hope you had an opportunity to visit Strong’s Water Club this summer, where we hosted our 5th annual Sound of Summer concert series on Saturday evenings. Whether you enjoyed a long weekend on your boat at our newly-renovated docks, or simply came for an evening of music and dinner at Pace’s Dockside, we’re happy you stopped by! If you’re considering a home-base for your boat, now is an ideal time to tour our Mattituck Bay and Sound facilities, meet our friendly staff and learn about our 2-for-1 dockage: boat and dock on the Bay and Sound for the price of a single slip! Plus, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of Water Club membership, from the pool to our 9 park-like acres. Call Tami at 631.298.4770 x10 to schedule your visit. For those out there enjoying the last of this wonderful boating season, I wish you fair skies and calm seas. Once you’re ready to tuck your vessel in for off-season safekeeping, know that we are prepared to take expert care of your valued investment. You may schedule your winterization and storage online at strongsmarine.com, or by contacting your Service Advisor at the location most convenient to you. I speak for all of us at Strong’s when I say thank you so very much for your business this season. It is a privilege to support your leisure time with family and friends, and we look forward to enhancing your life on the water for many years to come. If there’s any way I can personally improve your boating experience, please contact me directly. Cheers to the end of a wonderful boating season!
JEFF STRONG PRESIDENT JEFF@STRONGSMARINE.COM 631.298.4480
CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
On July 13th, Strong's Marine hosted a celebration at Calissa in Water Mill to toast 50 years of Cobalt Boats with Cobalt Founder Pack St. Clair and happy Cobalt boat owners! Commemorative 50th anniversary Cobalt Cabernet Sauvignon was presented by Steve Sherwin of Sherwin Family Vineyards. To view more photos, visit our scrapbook at strongsmarine.com.
Steve Sherwin, Jeff Strong, Pack St.Clair
Photos by Madison Fender Photography.
KEEPING UP WITH TEAM STRONG'S
Cobalt 50th Anniversary Party
Fire Island Boat Show
Newport Boat Show
Mattituck Madness Fishing Tournament
Pursuit Dealer Meeting & Awards
Grover's Docktail Party
Norwalk Boat Show
Woodmere Bay Yacht Club
SOUND OF SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 2018
NOW BOOKING WEDDINGS & PRIVATE EVENTS
2ND ANNUAL MATTITUCK MADNESS FISHING TOURNAMENT SAV
DAT E THE
E!
On Saturday June 23rd, local anglers joined in for a little friendly competition by fishing for striped bass and fluke in our annual tournament.
nnual s 3rd A adnes M k c tu Matti , 2019
June
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THE WORKING WATERFRONT: STILL GOING STRONG OUT ON THE WATER Along Mattituck Inlet, on a dock lined with boats of all kinds, Jeff, Re and Ryan Strong stop and wave to each captain passing by. They stop and chat with the boaters and keep a close eye out to make sure the slips are clear of any floating debris.
For more than 70 years, the Strong family has helped cultivate a community of recreational boaters on the North Fork and beyond. The sales, service and docking business was actually started by Stewart Strong in Lindenhurst in 1945 as Strong & Holland Marina. From there, it has evolved with each new generation that has taken the helm.
Dave and Dottie Strong took over the business in 1965 and moved it east to its Mattituck Bay location. Dave still worked as a full-time commercial bayman, scalloping and clamming, so Dottie would oversee the marina, which started out with about 30 clients. Their son, Jeff, was 8 years old at the time and did not hesitate to start at the bottom, painting, cleaning up and pumping gas for customers. “We definitely didn’t have to get involved,” said Jeff, now president of the family business. “We were encouraged always to do something else if that’s what we wanted to do, for sure.” And it was no different for Jeff’s sons Ryan, now vice president, and Jay, a member of the board. “We knew we weren’t just working for Mom and Dad,” Ryan said. “We were working with Mom and Dad for a business.” Jeff and his wife, Re, who grew up in Southold lobstering on her father’s boat, purchased the Mattituck Bay location in 1992 and from there made a series of decisions to grow the business. Now in its fourth generation, Strong’s has locations across Long Island, with showrooms and marinas in Southampton, Port Washington and Freeport and more than 100 full-time employees. Beyond sales and boat service, Strong’s also has a destination water club in Mattituck, which includes a pool and restaurant and offers boat rentals and dockage services. It takes research and a family vote before any major addition is made to Strong’s Marine, Re noted, along with a bit of convincing her at times. She recalled when Jeff wanted to go for the water club and, more recently, when he and Ryan wanted to pursue what is now the Strong’s Yacht Center on the west side of Mattituck Inlet, which they hope will grow over the next five years to become the largest yacht service facility in the Northeast. "I said, ‘OK, if you really want to do this, then I will support you guys in every way,’ ” Re said with a laugh. “But sometimes it’s like, ‘Are you out of your mind?’ " Beyond considering the financial implications of taking on a new location that might be older or run down, decisions also come down to the question of whether it’s really a business with a passion to get people out on the water versus one focused solely on the profit, with no emotional attachment. “We don’t want to be that guy,” Ryan said of the latter. “We want to be the people still fulfilling dreams and have that family connection, so that sometimes outweighs just what the numbers look like on paper.” Over the years, the Strong family business has watched the industry and attitudes toward recreational boating change. Technology has been a significant part of that. On the product side, it’s simply made boating easier, Jeff said. continued...
But on the personal side, it’s made a difference with people needing a break from handheld technology. “So many people are wrapped up both at home and at work with iPhone's, computers, you name it,” Jeff said. “When you’re out on the boat, you get pretty close to escaping a lot of that. It seems like more people are appreciating that.” With the economy doing fairly well, young families are now able to get into the boating community.
People are comfortable starting with smaller, entry-level boats and then get hooked, later buying bigger boats, Ryan noted. Strong’s Marine sells vessels ranging from 18 feet to as long as 131 feet. Jeff summed up what it feels like to see a first-time boater get onto the water by calling it “fun.” “They’re genuinely excited,” Ryan added. “They’re nervous excited.” But Strong’s Marine also has captains that help train new boaters so they’re confident out on the water.
The fourth-generation business has also served generations of families, who have become repeat customers at their showrooms and marinas. “It’s very rewarding for sure,” Jeff said. “Having those relationships and just seeing them go through the next generation of family members is cool.”
As for what’s stayed the same in the business, the Strong's all agreed it’s the family tradition of helping others enjoy the waterfront and going to whatever lengths necessary to do it. “We, by design, like being around water,” Re said. “It just creates a different feel.” And realizing that they get to work on it feels pretty good. “During a team meeting once,” she recalled, “One of the employees said, ‘Just look out the window; why wouldn’t you want to work here?’ You stop and think, ‘Look at what we’ve got.’ "
ARTICLE BY KELLY ZEGERS. PHOTOS BY RANDEE DADDONA ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN THE SEPTEMBER 2018 ISSUE OF NORTHFORKER MAGAZINE
EXPERIENCE YACHTING WARRANTY SERVICE
AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTOR
Our Sunseeker Fleet, Norwalk Boat Show 2018
A WORLD-CLASS YACHT RESOURCE We’re building our yacht business just as we developed a thriving boat business, with a long-term commitment to surpassing client expectations.
This year we celebrate the second anniversary of our newest location, Strong’s Yacht Center on Mattituck Inlet. This 16-acre home base for our yacht division currently offers 45 slips and 7 indoor storage buildings to accommodate yachts up to 110 ft. In the near future, we will break ground on an additional 100,000 sq. ft. of heated indoor storage for boats up to 35+ ft. in height.
As the exclusive Northeast dealer and distributor for Sunseeker Yachts, the world’s leading brand for luxury performance yachts, we were honored to receive the recent Sunseeker Global Distributor Award for highest sales growth. With an ongoing investment in acquiring, restoring and expanding premium yacht facilities, and a commitment to hiring elite yacht technicians and the finest craftsmen, we are on a journey to become the Northeast’s largest and most well-appointed yacht resource. We invite you to experience yachting with Strong’s.
WITH STRONG'S INTRODUCING: RICK FREDA YACHT SERVICE MANAGER
Rick oversees our team of certified technicians and craftsmen at the Yacht Center. He brings to Strong’s over 25 years of experience servicing boats and yachts from 30 to 250 ft. With multiple engine and generator certifications and an extensive range of expertise, he has earned the trust of yacht owners and captains across the tri-state area. Contact Rick directly to discuss your yacht’s service and repair needs: rickf@strongsmarine.com or 631.298.4480.
2018 YACHT DELIVERIES
THE ALL NEW UNLEASHED PREDATOR 50
The Sunseeker Predator 50 made its Northeast U.S. debut with Strong’s Marine this summer! This extraordinary vessel turned heads from Montauk to Manhattan with its combination of precision craftsmanship and cutting-edge design. The 50 Predator is ideal for an owner-operator; its joystick driving and docking system assures effortless operation, and its trim 54’ allows for easy accommodations at many marinas. Contact us to schedule your viewing!
There’s nothing more gratifying than delivering a handcrafted, customized yacht to its delighted owners.
2018 Sunseeker Predator 57
2018 Sunseeker San Remo 48
2018 Sunseeker Manhattan 52
2018 Sunseeker Manhattan 66
2018 Sunseeker Manhattan 52
2017 Sunseeker Manhattan 52
"STRONG'S MARINE IS VERY ACCOMMODATING AND QUICK TO RESPOND TO YOUR NEEDS. THEY HAVE BEEN VERY PROACTIVE WITH IMPROVEMENTS AND MAKING THE MARINA MORE FUNCTIONAL AND ENJOYABLE!"
WE GET LETTERS!
- John, Astoria NY
"STRONG'S SALES TEAM MEMBERS ARE TOP NOTCH. THEY ARE VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE AND HELPFUL." - David, lloyd harbor NY
"STRONG'S MARINE HAS BEEN FANTASTIC FROM THE START. THEY PROVIDED "CAPTAIN'S TIME" TO HELP US ACCLIMATE TO THE BOAT AND ITS HANDLING. THEY HAVE BEEN IMMEDIATELY RESPONSIVE TO ANY QUESTIONS OR NEEDS." - richard, larchmont NY
"STRONG'S MAKES ME FEEL SO CONFIDENT THAT US AND OUR BOATS ARE BEING TAKEN CARE OF! WE APPRECIATE THE VALUED RELATIONSHIP AND HOPE TO CONTINUE OUR PARTNERSHIP FOR A LONG TIME." - Maria, Mattituck NY
Home of Super Service since 1945 "THANK YOU FOR YOUR WONDERFUL STAFF ALWAYS COMING THROUGH FOR US!" - Andrew, Southampton NY
"STRONG’S WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN HELPING US CHOOSE A BRAND. SINCE THIS IS OUR FIRST BOAT, THE FREE TRAINING AVAILABLE AT STRONG’S ALSO MADE THIS AN EASIER DECISION.” -David, Garden City NY
THE WORK WE DO: RICHIE SIMICICH I’m Richie Simicich and I work at Strong’s Marine. My job title is yard manager. I’ve been here for over 20 years.
My responsibilities are making sure the technicians — we have eight technicians here — they all have their boats. Detailers are all made sure they have their boats down in a certain area. And we have high-and-dry customers. We have 81 rack customers, so they can call at any time and we put their boats in the water. So we’re just making sure everything flows properly.
My favorite part of the job is meeting customers, talking to customers that have been here for many years, knowing the families, knowing personal lives. Just being around the customer is my favorite part, seeing them this time of year. You get to know the family. You know the kids growing up. Right now it’s like a revitalization. The marine is shut down for the winter, no one is coming around and next thing you know springtime comes and everyone wants their boat in the water.
Here, there’s my work family. My work family with all my brothers and sisters. I remember when Ryan Strong and Jay Strong were born. I’ve really gotten to know the Strong family, being here for 20 years. Boats have definitely changed over 20 years. There are different styles of boats, horsepower has changed. There used to be noisy, twostroke engines, and now we have four-stroke engines that burn cleaner and are better for the environment.
I moved out here in 1972 and have been in Mattituck ever since. I’ve been in the Mattituck Fire Department for the past 36 years. It makes you feel good to have customers that have been here for a long time and to meet new customers. I always say, my motto is, I’m here to make your boating experience a pleasurable one. And that’s what I do. It’s your boat. I take care of it like it’s my own.
ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY RACHEL SIFORD ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN SUFFOLK TIMES IN MAY 2018
2018 BOAT DELIVERY HIGHLIGHTS
Congratulations to all of our new boat clients! Happy Boating!
2018 Cobalt R7
2018 Cobalt A40
2018 Pursuit OS 325
2018 Pursuit DC 295
2018 Regal 28 EX
2018 Pursuit DC 365
2018 Pursuit OS 355
2018 Regal 33 XO
2018 Regal 28 EX
Born for Boating Across 1. "___ Pizza" (Julia Roberts movie) 3. ____-sea fishing 6. Strong's flagship location 7. "Livin la vida ___" 9. "___ ho!" 10. Hello, in the Hawaiian Islands 13. Pirate's hello 15. Forward part of the boat 16. Bottom of boat 17. Crab or lobster traps 19. Think big 22. Ships crew 23. "Red sky at night, Sailor's ____" 25. Amenity on a cruise where you can get a massage 26. Pronoun for a boat 27. Ponce de ___ (famous explorer) 31. Jet___ 32. Your room, on a cruise 33. Flat fish 34. Rear part of the boat 36. Nautical map 38. ___ anchor 39. Capsize 40. "___ & chips"
C LU E C R E D IT
Down 2. Like good lobster 4. Boat's Kitchen 5. Boat's body 8. Common body of water for a marina to be located on 10. Soothing plant 11. Boat's bathroom 12. Where you steer the boat 14. Raise, as the Jolly Roger 18. Hanks of "Cast Away" 20. "The Little Mermaid" mermaid 21. "Boat ___" (place to slide your boat in the water, to send off) 24. Center of the storm 25. Marina spots 28. They usually bring cold weather 29. Seagull's domain 30. Caribbean island where Hemmingway boated for years 31. "The Perfect ___" (Book about a ship lost at sea) 35. Skinny fish 37. ____ north, not false
: BOAT US
NEED A CLUE? EMAIL ME AT
ALLY@STRONGSMARINE.COM
BOATERS BLOG
Ten Tips for Boating with Your Furry Friends Follow these tips when boating with your pet for a safe and happy adventure on board. 1. Keep plenty of fresh drinking water available. Pup’s gonna get thirsty! 2. Walk your dog to make sure they do their business before boarding. 3. Give your pal a chance to get used to wearing the life jacket before getting on board. 4. Give your dog a chance to get familiar with the boat before you take off. 5. Have your dog practice swimming in the life jacket before the first big outing! 6. Dogs absorb heat through their paws. Boat surfaces can get hot in the sun. 7. If fishing, keep lures, bait, and hooks safely stored and out of reach from your dog. 8. Provide a shaded area. Excessive exposure to the sun isn’t good for animals. 9. Keep your first outing short, so your dog can get used to the boat’s movement. 10. Don’t forget the treats & toys. This will help your dog understand it is a safe place. ARTICLE BY BOATING MAGAZINE.
UPCOMING BOAT SHOWS
October 31 - November 4 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show January 23 - 27 New York Boat Show
TED! C E NN Y CO US ON A T S LOW FOL
February 14 - 18 Miami International Boat Show March 28 - 31 Palm Beach International Boat Show
Why Buy Now?
S ACT U CONT T GREA FOR S ON DEAL INING REMA 2018 Y NTOR INVE
2018 Pursuit OS 355
2018 Cobalt R5
2018 Cobalt R30
2018 Regal 3300
P.O. BOX 1409 MATTITUCK, NY 11952
MATTITUCK BAY 631.298.4770
WATER CLUB 631.298.4739
YACHT CENTER 631.298.4480
FREEPORT 516.771.7020
SOUTHAMPTON SHOWROOM 631.283.6736
SOUTHAMPTON MARINA 631.283.4841
PORT WASHINGTON 516.304.5376
TEAM STRONG'S NORWALK BOAT SHOW 2018
STRONGSMARINE.COM
*AUTHORIZED TO SELL GRADY-WHITE IN NASSAU & WESTCHESTER COUNTIES AND 5 BOROUGHS