It’s a great feeling to get out on the water away from the crowds, noise and the stress of daily life. Still, boat owners don’t like to feel they’re totally on their own, either. The lure of the water is something to share, and it’s a good feeling to know there’s somebody we can call on if need be.
 
After all, every boat owner knows the importance of keeping their boat, motor and electronics in good condition. Peace of mind can come from knowing they can call on experts for help with such things.
 
For many boaters, and we know this is true of our customers, it’s also important to be part of a boating community. That might mean having someone to talk to about gear, seamanship, or the best fishing spots. Or it might just involve being a part of a seagoing social network.
 
For us at MarineMax, we believe selling a boat is just the beginning of a long-term relationship with our customers. They have learned to rely on us for service, education and connections to a wider community of boaters.
 
First, of course, is service. Our certified mechanics are experts at today’s high-efficiency, low-emission marine engines and can ensure they are kept in peak operating condition. Regular maintenance doesn’t just keep a boater out on the water longer every season. It also extends the life of a boat's most vital and potentially costly components.
 
Just as important as the motor is the electronic gear that is vital for boating today. Our service team can help with repairs and upgrades to communication and navigation systems, ensuring that every trip is as safe and worry-free as possible.
 
Often overlooked, but all-important, is hull maintenance, including bottom painting for boats that spend extended time in the water. We also offer covered out-of-water boat storage.
 
As days grow shorter and the water gets cooler, we recommend our fall service package before putting the boat in storage for the winter. This is one of the most important aspects of maintenance, ensuring that the boat will be ready to go when the weather warms up again.
 
For owners who like to do some of their own upkeep, we stock parts and accessories for all the engine and boat models we carry.
 
An aspect of our service that we’re especially proud of is our series of classes for both novice and experienced boaters. For the first-time owner, we recommend “Introduction to Boating.” Other popular courses are “Women on Water,” designed to help women gain their confidence in operating, servicing and caring for their boats, and “Kids in Boating,” which introduces children to the enjoyment and responsibility of safe boat operation. Classes on boating safety, and advanced seminars on specialized topics such as electronics, fishing and even cooking on board, round out our offerings.
 
Our classes are the responsibility of our full-time captain, who is available to help answer all our customers’ questions about seamanship and operating their boats.
 
Finally, I love to talk about our unique Getaways program. Members of the MarineMax family can join us on any of these unforgettable trips. These are a great way to get the most out of your boating experience without the hassle of having to do your own planning. We organize expeditions that let our customers discover the attractions to be found on our region’s waters and beyond. These can range from simple day-trips to weekends in Charleston, the Outer Banks or even the Bahamas. A personal favorite of mine is our “Docktail parties,” which are just what they sound like: opportunities for boaters to tie up and socialize together at the water’s edge.
 
Service and support, education and social connections with other boaters: These are essential aspects of the boating experience that members of the MarineMax family can count on.
 
Thom Cross is the general manager of MarineMaxWrightsville Beach. Headquartered in Clearwater, Florida, MarineMax is the nation’s largest recreational boat and yacht retailer. Focused on premium brands, MarineMax sells new and used recreational boats and related marine products and services as well as provides yacht brokerage and charter services. For more information, visit www.marinemax.com, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarineMaxWrightsvilleBeach or call (910) 256-8100.