STRONG'S MARINE PRE-SEASON 2022
DESTINATIONS
DESTINATION MARINAS
PURSUIT PERFECTION
PRE-OWNED BOAT BOOM
Summer memories and looking ahead
The world looks different from offshore
Buying tips from an expert
AT STRONG'S WATER CLUB
Casual waterside Fare
Live Music
2255 WICKHAM AVE, MATTITUCK
631.315.5252
Handcrafted Cocktails WINDAMERENOFO.COM
CONTENTS
05
PURSUIT PERFECTION An angler’s appreciation of the view from offshore
07
STRONG’S WATER CLUB & WINDAMERE Upgrades to make next season your best yet
09
ATLANTIQUE BY STRONG’S & GROVERS
A memorable first year in pictures
10
GIVING BACK Our team makes an impact where it matters
11
THE FUTURE IS FEMALE Insights from four amazing women of Team Strong’s
13
PRE-OWNED BOAT BOOM How to prepare for your boat search
18
JOIN OUR TEAM Like what you see in these pages? Consider a career here!
SEARCHING FOR A HOME BASE FOR ADVENTURE THIS SEASON? STRONG'S SOUTHAMPTON SHINNECOCK BAY MARINA is accepting 2022 dockage STRONG'S SOUTHAMPON SHINNECOCK BAY MARINA reservations! Currently undergoing renovation, our newest Southampton location offers easy access to the ocean, many nearby dock and dine restaurants, and is just a short ride to the Peconic Bay. Offering slips for boats to 42’, the marina may be able to accommodate larger vessels upon request.
UNLOCK THE LOCKS! Our captains will teach you to navigate the Shinnecock Locks with ease at two “Unlock the Locks” sessions this spring:
SUNDAY, MAY 1 & SUNDAY, MAY 15 Call 631.283.4841 or email jane@strongsmarine.com to learn more about Strong’s Shinnecock Bay dockage and our Unlock the Locks sessions. DESTINATIONS | PAGE 3
FROM THE HELM Dreaming of Summer? I hope this pre-season issue of Destinations magazine reminds you of all you love about being on the water, and that its pages transport to you to the warm and wonderful season ahead. “Once you’re out of sight of shore and don’t have any boats around you, it’s a different way of seeing the world,” explains passionate angler Jonathan Harber. I could not agree more! On page 5, read about his family’s adventures on their Pursuit S328. Strong’s Water Club and Windamere restaurant have paired up to offer a resort like no other – a “boater’s paradise,” as one reviewer describes the property. With continued upgrades in progress, and live music scheduled Thursday through Sunday throughout the season, there’s an even better 2022 on the horizon. Check out some great photos from last season on page 7. It was a pleasure meeting those of you who joined us during our first summer operating Fire Island’s Atlantique Marina in partnership with Al Grover’s Marine. We’ve shared some memories on page 9. If you haven’t yet visited, consider including this unique destination on your schedule this year. You don’t want to miss it! I am proud to introduce you to some of our amazing team members. On page 17, enjoy technician “Johnny B’s” inspiring origin story, and gain insights from four awesome women on Team Strong’s on page 11. If you’re passionate about being on the water, and providing clients with an exceptional experience, I encourage you to consider joining our team! Learn more on page 18. Finally, on page 10, don’t miss highlights of our team giving back over this past year. I hope you’ll join us in supporting these organizations which do such valuable work to serve our region. I can’t wait to see you out on the water soon!
JEFF STRONG President jeff@strongsmarine.com 631.298.4480
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 4
IN PURSUIT OF THE PERFECT FISHING BOAT Jonathan Harber had imagined Pursuit’s S328 Sport as his next fishing boat before he ever saw it. A hardcore offshore fisherman and longterm client of Strong’s Marine, Harber had done his homework. After narrowing the hunt down to the Pursuit S328 and another boat, the layout and versatility of the S328 won him over. In late June, Harber took delivery of Queen Maria III. The boat is named for his wife to keep her from getting jealous of his other love, he laughs. “I researched all these boats, and this boat is the best boat in its class to handle Long Island canyon fishing and bay fishing around here,” says Harber. Indeed, the model is “outfitted to impress finicky anglers and yet possesses luxury amenities,” writes Boating Magazine, That combination makes it perfect for serious fishermen as well as a leisurely day out with the family. “She’s the perfect fishing boat for this area,” says Harber. “You can get out fast; it’s still a center console, but you can overnight on it. She performs great in rough seas, yet can run in skinny water. You’ve got to use the trim tabs to keep the bow down in big seas, but she really handles weather. On flat surfaces she’s quick and fast. It’s just a really great riding boat."
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 5
James landed his biggest Mahi!
How one offshore angler’s quest for a superior fishing boat led him to a 32-foot Pursuit.
"once you’re
Harber's crew for the Hamptons Offshore Fishing Tournament in 2021.
out of sight of shore and don’t have any boats around you, it’s a different way of seeing the world"
Harber & his sons at the Canyon.
Between fishing excursions and a trip to Block Island with his wife and three kids, he put 130 hours on her in just two months. Never one to miss an offshore opportunity, Harber and his S328 joined the Hamptons Offshore Invitational Tournament, an event Strong’s Marine sponsored with Pursuit Boats. “It was a lot of fun,” he says. “We caught some nice fish, but we lost some bigger ones!” Harber puts the twin Yamaha F300 V6 Offshore outboards and Helm Master to work when fishing. “Originally I didn’t think I’d ever use a joystick, but it comes with FishPoint, StayPoint and DriftPoint,” he says. “When you’re fishing for Mahi, most boats struggle to stay on top of the pots. You hit StayPoint and it’s like having an extra person on board because you don’t have to worry about driving the boat.” Yamaha’s Helm Master also makes it easier to maneuver the boat while fighting fish, the feature that helped Harber’s 11-year-old son James land his biggest Mahi to date. Harber feels lucky to have gotten the model he wanted when boatbuilders are challenged to keep up with high demand. “Once you’re out of sight of shore and don’t have any boats around you, it’s a different way of seeing the world,” says Harber. “For sure, when people on shore are wearing masks and social distancing, it’s even more freeing.” Harber, who says some of his best bass fishing days have come on Thanksgiving, continued to put hours on his boat through mid-December. “It was definitely the right choice of boat,” adds Harber. “She rides terrific — it’s just what I was looking for. She’s going to be a great boat long term.”
Thank you to our partners at Pursuit Boats for their generous support as sponsors of the 2021 Hamptons Off-Shore Invitational.
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 6
We can’t wait to welcome you back to the Water Club this season! Expect even more fun, relaxation and great memories in 2022. live music every weekend upgraded bathrooms & showers Windamere offers service to pool & lawn, heated patio for chilly evenings
Book your stay at strongswaterclub.com
"Great dock hands made it easy to get into slip. The restaurant was amazing and the grounds are beautifully maintained."
“Always a wonderful stay. So relaxing. A boater’s paradise.”
“Pristine marina! Fantastic staff!”
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 7
A WINDAMERE SUMMER Our waterside restaurant welcomes you year-round. Offering casual patio dining, handcrafted cocktails and incomparable sunsets overlooking the inlet. Reservations recommended for weekend dining! Reserve on resy.
AT STRONG'S WATER CLUB
A MEMORABLE FIRST SEASON IN PICTURES. More upgrades are in progress for an even better 2022. Reserve on atlantique-marina.com
"The best boating destination on LI got better this year…..could not ask for a better dock master or crew."
"Stayed an extra day and can't wait to come back.”
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 9
GIVING BACK Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County – Marine Program
Three month old clams from FLUPSY's at Strong's Yacht Center
Strong’s Marine and CCE Marine Program have partnered since 2018 on the Long Island Shellfish Restoration Project. FLUPSYs (shellfish nurseries) on site at Strong’s Yacht Center have grown out 10 million clams to be planted at sanctuary sites across Long Island. In 2022, we will partner to create a Mattituck Stewardship Site, including an oyster reef and eelgrass plantings, to support the health of Mattituck Inlet and Long Island Sound.
Center for Advocacy, Support & Transformation (CAST)
Team members assisting in the 2021 CAST Holiday Toy Drive
CAST serves low-income individuals and families on the North Fork who need it most. This holiday season, Strong’s Marine team members and clients supported this organization’s annual toy drive that provided toys for over 500 neighbors. We also hosted a matching fund drive, raising nearly $8000 during the holiday season to support CAST’s efforts. Thank you to all who provided our community members with extra joy during this special time of year.
MRAA Educational Foundation Our passion for boating extends to supporting education and training to build the expertise of the marine workforce nationwide. We are a longtime contributor to the Marine Retailers Association of America’s (MRAA’s) Educational Foundation, which offers scholarships for technical training, business management and leadership development. Team members attend the 2021 MRAA Dealer Week Conference
Visit strongsmarine.com/giving for more information DESTINATIONS | PAGE 10
WISE WOMEN OF STRONG'S Four awesome women on Team Strong’s share their industry experience and offer personalized tips to women boaters.
PATTY REEVE, BUSINESS & FINANCE MANAGER 21 YEARS WITH STRONG’S MARINE SO MUCH HAS CHANGED SINCE I STARTED at Strong’s. We had one location
and less than 10 employees – now we have 12 locations and over 100 employees, wow! I enjoy being a part of the process that allows our clients to get out on the water with their family and friends. I have always lived by the water and wouldn’t have it any other way! I take my son and daughter out on fishing charters and my daughter is fearless – she loves handling the bait and crabs. On our last blackfish trip, she was the first to catch a blackfish!
MICHELLE FEVOLA, PRE-OWNED SALES COORDINATOR 4 YEARS WITH STRONG’S MARINE MY ADVICE TO WOMEN WHO ARE NEW TO BOATING and looking to get
out on the water for the first time this season or really anyone, is to take a boating safety course! I first took the course when I was 12 but recently re-took it as an adult because I don’t want to risk any injury for myself or my passengers. Download the US Coast Guard safety instruction book online – it is so important to know and obey the rules on the water. And make sure you have your safety kit on board which is always included with the purchase of your new or pre-owned vessel.
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 11
RACHEL PENA, BOAT & YACHT SALES CONSULTANT 14 YEARS WITH STRONG’S MARINE WE ARE DEFINITELY SEEING MORE WOMEN JOIN THE INDUSTRY, as well as
more women taking advantage of the boating lifestyle. When I attended Pursuit University a few months ago, I noticed I was no longer the only woman in the room – there were at least a dozen other women in sales. I have such fond memories of spending time on the water with my kids, so it’s especially gratifying to see more women as the driving force of purchasing their family boat. More women are inquiring about boats themselves, shopping on behalf of their family
KAILEY LYONS, YACHT SALES ASSISTANT
members and getting involved in the powerboating lifestyle.
1 YEAR WITH STRONG’S MARINE HAVING SPENT SUMMERS WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS ON THE GREAT SOUTH BAY, I'm grateful that I get to use my
passion for boating to help other families make the same lifelong memories that I had growing up. Being in the boating industry is more than just helping our team sell boats, it's opening the door to one of the best lifestyles to our clients. Being a woman in the industry gives me a unique perspective and helps me relate to our clients' family dynamics. I have that ability to connect with female buyers in particular during the sale because they often are focused on more lifestyle aspects of the boat, such as how many cabins there are or gunwale heights to keep the kids safe while aboard. Join us for Women on the Water events this season! Check strongsmarine.com/events for details.
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 12
PREOWNED BOAT BOOM
Ask the Expert: Robin Roberts Q: What are the advantages of purchasing a pre-owned boat from Strong’s Marine? A: Our team vets every boat we offer for
sale. We task our marine technicians to go through every boat and make sure its mechanically sound – performing compression checks, ensuring all gauges are accurate and sea trialing the boat to see it run on water. When a buyer is interested, we know the boat is mechanically sound and performing well which provides peace of mind for the buyer. Contrast this with buying a boat from someone’s driveway. You can be confident purchasing from a reputable company that has exceeded the expectations of thousands of pre-owned boat buyers over the years.
Q: What advice would you give prospective buyers in the market to purchase a pre-owned boat in 2022? A: Buy the boat that works for you NOW
so you can start enjoying it NOW. Inventory levels are historically low, and
If you’re in the market for a boat this
boats are going faster than ever. Prices are
year, you’re not alone! A pre-owned
rising for goods and services all over, and
vessel may be a great choice – especially one from Strong’s Marine. Check these tips from Robin Roberts, Pre-Owned Sales & Brokerage Manager, to be wellprepared for your boat search.
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 13
boats are no different; don’t let this market scare you. Commit now to assure you can start your boating lifestyle this season rather than waiting for that “perfect” boat at the “perfect” price to come along.
YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE 60 FLY
AUTHORIZED DEALER | WARRANTY SERVICE
| 516.304.5376
MATTITUCK | SOUTHAMPTON | PORT WASHINGTON | FREEPORT | FIRE ISLAND | STRONGSYACHTS.COM
HAVE A BOAT TO SELL? STRONG'S MARINE OFFERS MORE
With historically low inventory and high buyer demand, there has never been a better market to sell your boat. Robin Roberts, Pre-Owned Sales &
Brokerage Manager, explains how to take advantage of this red-hot market.
Q: Why is NOW the best time to sell my boat? A: Potential buyers are looking forward
to the spring boating season. This desire to get on the water drives buyers to shop now to secure their boat for spring delivery. With low inventory, now is an excellent time to get a premium
Q: What do I need to do to prep my boat to sell?
return on your boat. List with us today! A: We have a checklist that we will go through
together when you list with Strong’s. Appearance is Q: Why should I broker and sell my
everything – it shows the boat was well cared for
boat with Strong’s Marine?
and well maintained! Make sure you have all your documents in order like title, registration, and any
A: We have so much horsepower: 75
outstanding loan information. Our qualified brokers
years in the business, tremendous
will walk you through the process for everything
industry knowledge and connections,
you need for a five-star listing.
and 12 locations across Long Island. Our world-class marketing team aggressively targets buyers for your boat via our well-trafficked websites, digital advertising, promoted social media and more. Our highly trained brokers are available by phone or email 24/7 to get your boat sold for top dollar. In 2021, we sold boats as far as Seattle, California – even internationally in Switzerland and Poland. Bottom line: we will get the best buyer for you and sell your boat at a premium price.
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 15
Ready to sell? Contact Robin at 631.298.4739 to get your offer now.
NEW AT STRONG’S
MANUFACTURING TRAILERS FOR OVER 60 YEARS
New boat:
✓
Custom trailer to fit your dream vessel:
✓
As Long Island’s largest distributor of Tidewater Trailers, you’ll regularly find fresh stock onsite at our Main Road, Mattituck location. Let our experienced team design a Tidewater trailer to protect your valued investment.
Why Tidewater Trailers? Disc brakes installed on all braking models DOT-approved LED lighting standard on trailers over 2450 lbs. Both state-of-the-art torsion axle systems and spring axle systems available Equipped with the finest roller and bunk systems in the industry Adjustable running gear available on most models License plates, inspection and custom adjustments to fit your hull are available with your purchase. Call Jenn at 631.298.2632 or visit our newest location at 9605 Main Road, Mattituck to learn more and customize your trailer today!
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 16
THE WORK WE DO: JOHNNY B.
"I have a great sense of responsibility working here"
My name is John Bezubek and I am a technician at Strong's Water Club & Marina in Mattituck, NY. When I was 14 years old, my dad gave me an 18’ aluminum boat with a 25hp Johnson engine on the back. He would bring me and my buddies to the water every morning on his way to work, then pick us up on his way home. One day, the motor broke while we were on the water. There were no cell phones back then, so we had to figure out a way to get back to shore and wait for my dad. We waited miserably for hours; eventually a clam boat towed us in. When my dad arrived, I told him the story; he said I could use all my gas money to bring the boat to a mechanic or I could fix it myself. That week I downloaded my engine’s manual at my middle school’s computer lab. I figured out the carburetor was dirty - a common problem in older boats – and I got
I had a wonderful and caring teacher who helped me fine tune my skills, and also taught me to build my own reputation by building trust with customers.
my boat back on the water the next day.
At Strong’s Marine, we are constantly learning
Soon I was fixing more things on my boat.
build our skills and keep on the leading edge
Eventually my boats got bigger, faster and more powerful. When I got to high school, I moved up to a 22’ Grady-White and 20’ pilot house boats. I enrolled in the BOCES technical school program for marine technology while I attended Riverhead High School.
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 17
– attending training across the country to of technology. There’s so much opportunity to grow with our many locations and manufacturers. There is a high level of recognition for Strong’s Marine industry wide – we’re a family business, well-respected among our peers. I’m filled with pride and have a great sense of responsibility working here.
JOIN OUR TEAM!
IF YOU LOVE BEING ON THE WATER AND HAVE A PASSION FOR HOSPITALITY, CONSIDER JOINING OUR AMAZING TEAM. Full-time and seasonal opportunities exist for power boating instructors, boat delivery captains, marine service advisors, technicians, yard workers, sales consultants, hospitality and more!
See current openings at strongsmarine.com/careers. Along with a generous benefit package, we offer ongoing training, enrichment, team-building events, and opportunities for career advancement at Strong’s locations across Long Island. Not a perfect fit for a specific opening? Contact us to let us know why you’re seeking a position in the marine industry and what you can contribute to Strong’s Marine. We are always interested in meeting good people who share our passion and values.
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 18
BRANDS YOU CAN TRUST
Since 2005, Strong’s Marine and Cobalt Boats share a rich history rooted in friendship, quality and trust.
Strong’s Marine and Pursuit Boats have been making boating dreams come true together for over 20 years.
Strong’s Marine and Regal Boats share family, business and boating values since 2011.
= MORE TIME ON THE WATER
Strong’s Marine and GradyWhite partnered in 2016, bringing this iconic brand to Nassau County and the five boroughs.
Strong’s Marine is the exclusive New York, Northern New Jersey and Connecticut dealer for Cruisers Yachts. Wisconsin-built for over 60 years, Cruisers is known for its unrivaled quality, style and luxury
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 20
OUR LOCATIONS North Fork MATTITUCK BAY - EST. 1965
YACHT CENTER - EST. 2016
Sales • Service • Dockage • Rentals
Sales • Service • Dockage
2400 Camp Mineola Rd., Mattituck, NY 11952 (631) 298-4770
5780 W Mill Road, Mattituck, NY 11952 (631) 298-4480
WATER CLUB & MARINA - EST. 2013
WINDAMERE - EST. 2020
2255 Wickham Avenue, Mattituck, NY 11952 (631) 298-4739
2255 Wickham Avenue, Mattituck, NY 11952 (631) 315-5252
Sales • Service • Dockage
Restaurant • Private Events
MAIN ROAD - EST. 2021
9605 Main Road, Mattituck, NY 11952 (631) 298-2632
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 21
Sales • Service
South Fork SOUTHAMPTON SHOWROOM - EST. 2000
SOUTHAMPTON PECONIC BAY MARINA - EST. 2000
781 County Road 39, Southampton, NY 11968 (631) 283-6736
1810 North Sea Road, Southampton, NY 11968 (631) 283-4841
Sales
Service • Dockage • Rentals
SOUTHAMPTON SHINNECOCK MARINA - EST. 2021
EAST HAMPTON AT HARBOR MARINA - EST. 2020
74 Little Neck Road, Southampton, NY 11968 (631) 283-4841
9 Gann Road, East Hampton, NY 11937 (631) 283-6736
Dockage
Sales
Nassau & Suffolk PORT WASHINGTON - EST. 2008 86 Orchard Beach Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050 (516) 304-5376
Sales
STRONG'S AT GROVERS - EST. 2017 435 South Main Street, Freeport, NY 11520 (516) 771-7020
Sales • Service • Dockage
ATLANTIQUE AT FIRE ISLAND - EST. 2021 10 Shore Walk, Bay Shore, NY 11706 (631) 469-3868
Sales • Transient Dockage
DESTINATIONS | PAGE 22
P.O. BOX 1409 MATTITUCK, NY 11952
SEE YOU ON THE WATER!
Strong's Rendezvous to Block Island, 1997 STRONGSMARINE.COM
*AUTHORIZED TO SELL GRADY-WHITE IN NASSAU COUNTY & 5 BOROUGHS