Tag: Southern Exposure

Mary Masri, President of MM Designs

Nine questions for Mary Masri, President of MM Designs

1. SB: How did you become an interior designer interested in yachts?
Mary Masri: My interest in yachts landed in my lap. I had finished a residential project for a longtime client earlier than expected, which is always cause for celebration. She was thrilled with the results and requested I design her son’s yacht.

2. SB: What are some of the signature styles that set you apart from others in your field?
MM: I love color and textures so both are used integrally via hard and soft materials in all of MMDesigns projects. There is always a meaningful amount of color in all of our spaces; it may be strong or muted, obvious or subtle, but it is always there to bring the project to life. Differing textures introduced through fabrics, flooring and hard surfaces give immeasurable visual interest to our interiors. You always want your client to love their yacht the 50th time they board the same as they did the first time they saw it.

3. SB: What is your favorite part of the interior design process?
MM: There are actually two parts: the initial meeting and revealing the finished project to the client. The initial meeting is the most informative part of the process. That first conversation with the client is where the heart of the project is shaped. You have to ask the right questions, listen to the client’s answers and be able to translate those answers into the client’s vision. If you have done it right the reveal will be nothing less than sensational.

4. SB: How has your company progressed most significantly in the last 10 years? What are some of the most noted changes?
MM: Branching out into the yachting world has been the most significant progression for MMDesigns. Contorting all of the comforts and amenities from a residential setting into the hull of a yacht with all of it restrictions is an intricate puzzle MMDesigns excels at solving.

5. SB: How has your company most notably impacted the boating community?
MM: We are a bit small to have impacted the “boating community” as a whole but we are on our way one boat at a time. With arguably the best service record and turnaround time out there, we are proud of the work we do and look forward to MMDesigns continued growth in the field.

6. SB: How do you see the marine industry evolving in your field over the next few years?
MM: With the economy improving and new overseas markets opening up at an enormous pace, the need for first time designs and refits is growing exponentially. Inventories are still tighter than I would like them to be and the workrooms that survived the economic downturn are at capacity. At this pace there is going to be a need for growth in the sector for the foreseeable future. It will be slow in coming as the bruises from the past are still fresh.

7. SB: How have you seen technology play a role in the advancement of boatbuilding/design in your field?
MM: Technology is allowing yachts to become greener and quieter without sacrificing speed and weight with the added option of remote maneuverability from handheld devices. Soft and hard goods are following suit with more options, offering superior durability against the harsh marine environment without sacrificing luxury and flexible applications, making the marketplace a virtual paradise.

8. SB: How do you marry the desire for performance and seaworthiness with the desire for comfort, elegance, and high design?
MM: Performance and seaworthiness do not have to come at the expense of comfort, elegance and high design. Everything needed to accomplish all of these things is in the market but you have to be willing to search for them. A project is limited only by the imagination and willingness of the professional to go above and beyond for their client. MMDesigns’ reputation was built and is maintained by doing just that for each of its clients.

9. SB: Where and what type of boating/fishing do you enjoy personally?
MM: I was brought up salmon and trout fishing and although I love being out on the open waters, my heart is still on the river, on its shore or on it under oar power!

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

Palm Beach Town Docks, Palm Beach, FL

The rich atmosphere of Palm Beach, Florida, attracts cruisers from around the world with its fine dining, fabulous shopping and a multitude of activities. Whether window shopping, relaxing on a pristine beach or enjoying one of the several seafood restaurants, touring cruisers can find convenient berth at the Town Docks Marina.

With slips accommodating vessels up to 260′, the Town Docks Marina’s main feature is its strategic location on the Island of Palm Beach, just steps from world-renowned Worth Avenue. Visitors will also find an easy taxi or trolley ride over the neighboring drawbridge to enjoy the Kravis Center, Cityplace and nightlife at downtown West Palm Beach. The Breakers Hotel, a landmark Palm Beach resort, is just two miles from the docks.

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The Town Docks provide all of the conventional amenities, and security monitoring ensures your vessel is protected throughout the stay.

Marina Features:

• Electricity
• Fresh water and showers
• Sewage removal
• Telephone
• Cable TV
• Security cameras
• Complimentary WiFi
• Captain’s lounge
• Great location

Information:

PO Box 2029
500 Australian Ave.
Palm Beach FL 33480
(561) 838-5463
mhorn@townofpalmbeach.com
townofpalmbeach.com

By Daniel Wagner, Southern Exposure

Southern Exposure’s Q&A: Jimmy Floyd, Sales Manager at Bradford Marine

SB: You have an extensive history in the marine industry. What sets Bradford Marine apart from competitors? How has it accomplished this and how will it continue to do so?
JF: Bradford Marine has been a leader in the industry since it first opened in 1966. Being a full-service shipyard has allowed Bradford Marine to offer its clients the comfort of having the trades of a shipyard under one roof. Owners and captains have the ease of working with a project manager who is assigned to each vessel, which allows more personal control over the project details and the delivery time of their vessel. Bradford Marine will continue to deliver quality work from our more than 130 tradesmen and continue to improve communication with our clients. It is a very competitive industry today and I believe the only way to set yourself apart is through quality workmanship, good service and great communication.

SB: What attracted you to work for Bradford Marine?
JF: I started at Bradford Marine in 1976 as Dockmaster, which was my first job in the yachting industry. Twenty-eight and a half years later I returned to Bradford knowing its history and reputation, wanting to be a part of a traditional business that I was familiar with and be a part of its continuing growth.

SB: What are you most proud of accomplishing in your position?
JF: In my 35 years of working in the industry, I take the most pride in the relationships I’ve made. I have been very fortunate during my career with the opportunity to work with people that take pride in what they do. You’re only as good as the people backing you up. Offer excellent service, stand behind your work and most of all, stand behind your word. That’s something to be proud of.

SB: What do you love most about what you do and what are your goals for 2015?
JF: I have to say that I most enjoy seeing customers happy when they leave the shipyard and even happier when you see them return to you. Bradford Marine has another facility in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island. Our goals for 2015 are to continue to offer great service and increase business at both facilities.

SB: How is Bradford Marine making a difference in the marine industry?
JF: Bradford Marine, along with others, has been collaborating with different business in the area to accommodate the ever-growing number of vessels visiting South Florida. The downturn in the economy several years back changed the way a lot of businesses operate, so we are hoping to continuously aid and increase cruisers in South Florida.

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

Sangria Lolea

This Valentine’s day enjoy the sweet taste of Sangria Lolea’s gourmet sangria from the Mediterranean. Inspired by its region of origin, Sangria Lolea combines tradition and culture to make the perfect combination of wine and fruit, with a frizzante touch. In addition to its fine taste, Sangria Lolea is elegantly crafted and adds a stylish presentation perfect for any date or celebration!

Prepared with either red wine or white wine, Sangria Lolea is made with all-natural ingredients and has a moderate content of alcohol. The makers of this cocktail craft a limited production for consumption each year. The essence of Sangria Lolea’s story is evident with every sip; family and friends are guaranteed to enjoy! MSRP $19.49

Information
1674 Meridian Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 674-3222
lolea.usa@sangrialolea.com
sangrialolea.com

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

River Forest Yachting Centers, Stuart, FL

River Forest Yachting Centers provide discriminating boat owners with luxurious, secure, long and short-term storage for boats from 24′ to 90′. Strategically located between the locks on both sides of Lake Okeechobee in protected fresh water basins, RFYC operates facilities in Stuart, Florida (est. 2005) and LaBelle, Florida (est. 2009). The Stuart location offers new customers stabilized land storage with tie-downs and free haul, clock, launch, and pressure wash. The LaBelle location offers Gulf Coast cruisers convenient storage near Fort Myers and is located on the Caloosahatchee River just east of the Ortona Lock.

A safe haven for boats, River Forest Yachting Centers include climate-controlled and non-climate controlled indoor storage coded for 140-mph winds, pristine secure land storage with hurricane grade tie-downs, and concrete wall side-tie dockage. Cruisers are welcome and will be pleased with the clean, peaceful surrounding and friendly staff.

RFYC offers a full complement of repair and maintenance services at both locations. Each facility provides a members-only Hurricane Club® for safe harbor and peace of mind in the event of a storm. RFYC is recommended by insurance carriers to satisfy the requirements of the underwriters for Florida boat storage during hurricane season.

LaBelle’s location offers a new floating dock, and Stuart boasts new secure stabilized land storage for 20 additional boats. New storage buildings are on the horizon for 2016 at both locations. RFYC is committed to continually growing and expanding their services to enhance their customer’s satisfaction and commitment to excellence.

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Stuart, Florida Specifications:
Climate-controlled and non climate-controlled storage buildings
Indoor Storage for up to 70 vessels in 45,000 sq. ft.
24-hour security system
100 amp electricity available for battery charging
132,000 lbs. ASCOM Marine Lift
100,000 lbs. ABI Self-Propelled Hydraulic Transporter
Indoor Storage Building
In-Water Storage in Freshwater Basin
2 acre freshwater (barnacle-free) basin with 1400′ of deep water broadside dockage
Hurricane protected dockage with internal crosstie cleats for hurricane tie-down
Covered Service & Maintenance Building

LaBelle, Florida Specifications:
Climate-controlled and non climate-controlled storage buildings
Indoor Storage for up to 150 vessels in over 100,000 sq.ft.
100 amp electricity available for battery charging
164,000 lbs. ASCOM Marine Lift
132,000 lbs. ABI Self-Propelled Hydraulic Transporter
66,000 lbs. ABI Self-Propelled Hydraulic Transporter
In-Water Storage
2 acre freshwater (barnacle-free) basin with 900′ of deep water broadside dockage
Hurricane protected dockage available with internal crosstie cleats for hurricane tie-down
Storage lots available on 2 acre of concrete pad for long term or hurricane season storage
Covered Service & Maintenance Building
Protected service area for vessels undergoing any of the many maintenance and detailing services offered by RFYC
Clubhouse
Helipad

Contact
Tracy L. Campbell
Director of Client Services
(772) 287-4131
riverforestyc.com

RFYC STUART
9150 SW Pennsylvania Ave.
Stuart, Florida 34997
(772) 287-4131
Hours: M-F 8AM-5PM

RFYC LABELLE
1992 Williams Road
Moore Haven, Florida 33471
(863) 612-0003
Hours: M-F 8AM-5PM

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

OTAM Millennium 80 Open

OTAM, an Italian boat builder with 60 years of powerboating experience, launched their new Millennium 80 Open, whose sophisticated design turns heads on the water. OTAM is known for powerful performance, and the Millenium 80 Open lends to that aspect while combining luxury and elegance. This sporty megayacht starts with the Fabio Buzzi hull shape, and yacht designer Alberto Mancini emphasized speed with a very protective windscreen that wraps around both sides of the cockpit and terminates with the large carbon air intakes, clearly derived from automotive lines.

The deck layout takes advantage of the external cockpit with a facing twin C-shaped settee that can be covered with the Bimini (or an optional hardtop), and a fully equipped double bar complete with icemaker, refrigerator and grill for day cruising or longer voyages. The spacious sun bathing area is astern above the tender garage, with another sunpad zone on the foredeck. The interior is available in three- or four-cabin layouts, with the owner’s suite astern and the VIP suite forward.

The roll bar is color coordinated with the hull scheme offered in five custom color variations—Racing Blue, Maranello Red, Titanium, Black and Gold Grey. If these five don’t peak your interest, full custom color schemes are available. All the outdoor upholstery uses materials especially designed to integrate with the tones of the chosen hull color scheme. Top speed is 50 knots, but OTAM is still experimenting with propellers and confident that a new set of Rolla propellers will take the speed up to 55-58 knots in the future.

Specifications
LOA: 86.66′
Beam: 19.84′
Draft: 4.6″
Weight: 120,000 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 39,361 / 264 U.S. gals.
Top/Cruise Speed: 54 / 50 knots
MSRP: Inquire

Information
Antonio Caviglia
Sales & Marketing Director
Via Cibrario, 2
16154 Sestri Ponente (Genova) – Italia
tel: +39 010 60 190 212
cell:+39 348 3381147
fax: +39 010 60 190 227
a.caviglia@otam.it
otam.it

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

Southern Exposure’s Q&A: Deb Radcliff, Senior VP of Marketing for West Marine

SB: What sets West Marine apart from other competitors in the field? How has it accomplished this and how will it continue to do so?
DR: For many years, West Marine has been the world’s largest boating supply retailer, offering over 85,000 products at our 280 retail stores, through our call center at 1-800-BOATING, and online at westmarine.com. We know boating and cruisers, and we can outfit just about anyone who enjoys recreating on the water. An important aspect that sets us apart from many of our competitors is the expertise of our associates, both at the stores and at the call center. We provide our customers with solutions for all their questions and the right products for their boating needs.

SB: How has the company developed and changed over the years?
DR: West Marine’s founder Randy Repass started selling sailing rope for his daysailer out of his garage in Palo Alto—he was frustrated with the disorganization and limited selection at local chandleries. While sailing is still an important core of our business, over the years West Marine has expanded its merchandise to cater to powerboaters, fishing and paddling enthusiasts. Most recently, we’ve introduced a great selection of stand-up paddleboards and kayaks which are some of the fastest growing watersports trends.

SB: What attracted you to work for West Marine? What things ignite passion and excitement in your job?
DR: I’ve spent most of my career in retail, including senior management positions at The Home Depot and Sports Authority. My husband and I are avid sailors—both racing and cruising—so the position at West Marine was an exciting opportunity to combine my career and my passion. I’ve been a West Marine customer for over 15 years and to be part of the expansion to reach water enthusiasts is exciting for me.

SB: What accomplishments are you most proud of?
DR: As West Marine expands its product selection to include more “waterlife” products, our marketing team is evolving our vision to include creative campaigns that share the passion of being on and around the water. It’s not just about products, it’s about the excitement and the joy that goes with boating—whether it’s sailing, power boating, fishing, or paddling.

SB: What do you love most about what you do?
DR: What sailor wouldn’t want to spend their days talking about boating? My favorite thing about working for West Marine is the opportunity to meet and talk with our store associates across the organization. Their passion and love for West Marine is contagious and makes me excited to come to work every day.

SB: How has West Marine made a difference in the marine industry? Give some specific examples of how your company has enriched mariners’ experiences on the water.
DR: West Marine has certainly raised the bar of people’s expectations for selection and service. One example is engine parts—one of the biggest headaches for cruisers. There are so many different models and when something breaks, even seasoned cruisers often aren’t sure where to start to get the right part. West Marine’s new flagship store includes dedicated engine parts counters, for example, with thousands of parts in stock. For customers who aren’t near those stores, westmarine.com has a new “Engine Parts Selector” section that allows you to find parts by engine make, model and year, or by part number. A process that could take days (or weeks) of phone calls to manufacturers is now done in minutes, which gets our customers back on the water faster.

SB: What should we expect to see from West Marine in this upcoming year?
DR: In addition to the latest specialty items for boating, we’re introducing new lines of lifestyle products for the whole family. You’ll see more women’s clothing, expanded assortment of paddle sports like stand up paddleboards and kayaks, and lifestyle electronics such as waterproof Bluetooth speakers. You’ll also see continued enhancements to our website westmarine.com.

SB: What product would you recommend cruisers consider?
DR: Check out the new inflatable stand-up paddleboards, such as the Jimmy Styks Puffer. It’s great for exploring and exercise and packs up to the size of a duffel bag. They’re a great alternative to kayaks. I have two of them that we use when we go camping up in Mammoth Lakes, CA.

SB: Tell me about your boating experience. Do you currently own a boat?
DR: I am ASA certified to sail up to 60-foot monohull and catamaran boats, and we’ve bare-boated in the B.V.I., St. Maarten and throughout California. One of the best perks we have at West Marine is our company’s 40-foot Santa Cruz sailboat that we race on Wednesday nights here in Santa Cruz. I’ve also coordinated several “Women on the Water” boating events where associates can learn how to sail or just enjoy being out on the water. Other weekends, we are out kayaking or paddleboarding around the Central Coast.

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

Capella Marina at Marigot Bay, Saint Lucia

Hospitality is the primary goal of the Capella Marina at Marigot Bay with dedicated staff on hand around the clock. As you enter, a private escort service and dockhand team will guide you to one of the marinas 40 slips—dedicated spaces for megayachts are available.

Upon docking, a personal liaison will assist with customs check-in procedures. Cruisers are greeted with a bouquet of indigenous flowers and a bottle of complimentary rum from the dock manager and the dockhand team. A Capella Marina concierge is appointed to meet requests and arrange vacation activities.

The full-service marina features dry cleaning, room service delivery, housekeeping, private chef services, and on-board spa treatments. Complimentary food and beverages are provided at the Capella Living Room. Close-circuit surveillance ensures guests and property are safe and secure throughout the stay.

The Resort houses 124 rooms including 56 two- or three-bedroom suites with spacious balconies and optional Jacuzzis. Shoppers can scout nearby retail stores and jewelers, while epicures will find good eats at the gourmet food, wine and beverage store. Enjoy special events such as farmers markets, cooking demonstrations, live concerts, fashion shows, and more. Upon departure, the Capella Resort & Marina at Marigot Bay sends you with a farewell gift from the Dock Manager. The resort’s “Five-Star Services Program” treats every visitor to the island of Saint Lucia like family.

Features:

• 165-foot-wide buoyed entrance
• 40 slips accommodate vessels 30-250 ft. LOA
• Max. draft 16 ft.
• Max. beam 44 ft.
• Full access to resort amenities and services as marina guests
• Laundry, ships store, upscale shops, gourmet supermarket, bank, restaurant
• Full services

Information:

Capella Marigot Resort & Marina
PO Box MG 7227
Marigot, St. Lucia, West Indies
Phone: (758) 458-5300
Reservations:(321) 821-0798
res.marigotbay@capellahotels.com
contact.marigotbay@capellahotels.com
capellamarigotbay.com

By Daniel Wagner, Southern Exposure

Hurley H3O Dinghy Davit System

Hurley Marine’s brand-new davit was developed with security and ease in mind. The H3O Dinghy Davit is a convenient storage and deployment system that accommodates a variety of small craft up to 400 pounds, and it easily installs onto swim platforms.

This linear-bunk system is constructed out of high-density polyethylene with a removable stainless steel wench that can adjust between three and six feet. The H3O allows for quick release and retrieval while keeping a low profile. Comes with a two-year warranty. MSRP $1,789.95

Information:

Hurley Marine, Inc.
1125 Lake Shore Drive
Escanaba, MI 49829 USA
(906) 553-6249
hurleymarine.com

By Daniel Wagner, Southern Exposure

Cooper 800 Yacht Tender

Cooper Yacht’s mission to offer ultimate style and comfort in a multi-functional vessel at a reasonable price comes to fruition in the Cooper 800 Tender—a new concept that combines a stylish hull shape with a comfortable modern interior. The trailerable boat seats up to 10 passengers comfortably and can be used as a luxury tender, a lounging day cruiser, or an active watersports boat pulling tubers or wakeboarders. Enjoy the custom dashboard, hydraulic steering, convertible spray hood, adjustable helm seating, with enhanced visibility and simplified operation. Its rugged construction includes high quality stainless steel components and DSM resin.

The Cooper 800 comes standard with an integrated bimini under the aft deck, teak-covered topsides, cockpit floor and engine cover, as well as four fenders with the easy connect fender pin™ system, anchor, flag, and landlines. With an efficient hull shape, the Cooper 800 reaches 16 knots with a 54-hp inboard Yanmar Diesel engine that sips 1.1 gallon per hour as standard. Options from 29-hp to 125-hp are also available. The Cooper 800 is customizable to client’s color preference on the hull, interior, upholstery, sprayhood, and covers, and are delivered with a CE certificate and two-year full warranty. View the list of standard equipment and extra options at cooperyachtusa.com.

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Specifications:

LOA: 27′
Beam: 7′
Draft: 1.8′
Weight: 4,299 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 10/10 U.S. gals.
Speed: 16 knots
MSRP: Inquire
info@cooperyachtsusa.com
cooperyachtsusa.com

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

Southern Exposure’s Q&A: Carl Blackwell, President of Grow Boating, Inc.

SB: Please give a brief background of Discover Boating and what sets it apart from other competitors in the field? How do you feel it has accomplished this and how will it continue to do so?
CB: Discover Boating kicked off in December 2003, and the first marketing campaign launched in Spring 2005 to help new cruisers get on the water and improve the boating experience for current boat owners. Similar to other all-industry campaigns such as “Got Milk?” and “Go RVing”, all corners of the boating industry pull together contributions to help introduce more people to life on the water and ultimately buy more boats.

SB: How has Discover Boating developed and changed since its formation?
CB: There have been adjustments to the changing economy and marketing landscape but since the campaign’s inception, our mission has stayed largely the same: share the boating lifestyle and improve the boating experience to help more people get on the water and become lifelong cruisers.

SB: Can you tell me a few things that specifically ignite passion and excitement about your job at Discover Boating?
CB: Boating is a lifestyle that people love and are passionate about—including me. I have a pretty great job because I introduce people to the fun of being on a boat. Whether that’s helping people connect with their friends and family, or disconnecting from their phones and computers to recharge their “batteries” and unwind on a boat. It is fulfilling to know we are helping people experience this special side of life spent on a boat and having fun with the people who matter most.

SB: What are you most proud of accomplishing at Discover Boating?
CB: I’m most proud of the number of people we’ve introduced to boating and ignited to become boat owners and as a result, helped them make memories that will last a lifetime. I’m also proud of the momentum we’ve helped create in the industry. The recreational boating industry is made up of about 95% small businesses. These are businesses that support jobs and local communities but they also create boats that bring families and friends together and provide a way for people to experience our country’s waterways.

SB: How has Discover Boating made the biggest difference in the marine industry? I would love to hear specific examples of how you believe your company has enriched mariners experience on the water.
CB: What’s unique about Discover Boating is that it encompasses all areas of boating. We aren’t selling a certain type of boat or accessory—discoverboating.com is an unbiased, not-for-profit resource for new and experienced boat owners alike to find the information they need to have the best time on the water. From how to buy/shop, finance, insure, maintain, and trailer to where to go and have some fun, our website covers it all.

We’ve also created a social networking community where we engage with cruisers, and potential cruisers, each day. We share inspiring boating stories and images, special insights on finding the right boat, and answer questions to help people navigate their boating or boat buying experiences. We’re providing real-time solutions for people and we’re able to provide these solutions with the support, knowledge and credibility of the entire boating industry, which doesn’t exist anywhere else.

SB: What should we expect to see from Discover Boating in this upcoming year?
CB: In 2014, we launched our Stories of Discovery video documentary series profiling real cruisers and their love for the water. Those four stories/videos were a thrill to create—searching for the stars, learning their stories and shooting the footage—and offer a special look into the role boating plays in people’s lives. The response has blown away our expectations. With these videos as a cornerstone of our campaign—we helped bring 1.8 million people to manufacturer websites to shop for boats. Based on this success, we’re continuing Stories of Discovery in 2015 with two new storytellers sharing their personal boating experiences.

In addition, you can expect Discover Boating to have a heavy online presence on your favorite news outlet websites and your go-to social networks. You’ll also see us at boat shows and other national events to support our Hands-On Skills Training program. We believe that education is one of the best ways to encourage people to try boating for the first time and also give cruisers—both veterans and newbies—a way to check their skills and be more confident on the water.

SB: Are you involved in any outside marine organizations?
CB: I’m currently on the Recreational Boating & Fishing Board of Directors and involved with the Recreational Boating Leadership Council. Formerly on the Sail America Board of Directors and the National Safe Boating Council.

SB: How involved in the boating and marine community are you? Do you own a boat yourself? What do you love most about being a mariner?
CB: Every weekend in the summer you can find me on my boat in Chicago cruising Lake Michigan with my friends. There’s no place I’d rather be than on my boat to unwind and have fun. Boating provides such an incredible social experience that also makes me feel like I’m miles away from home on vacation. I’m able to bring a lot of my personal experiences as a cruiser to my work and put myself in the shoes of a potential cruiser to think about what would make it most compelling and what’s going to really attract someone to the boating lifestyle.

SB: What else would you like our readers to know?
CB: Discover Boating can help you find your next boating destination or access point, connect you with a local certified dealer for your next upgrade, or provide tips for semi-annual maintenance and more. We’re here to help you make the most of your time on the water. I also encourage anyone interested in the latest boating trends and information to connect with us on our social media outlets.

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

Pursuit DC 325

From Pursuit Boats comes the Dual Console DC 325, a sport-utility vehicle on the water in which versatility is the name of the game. Combining the luxury of a family cruiser with the durability of a rugged fishing boat, the DC 325 provides features for any venture. Rod-holders, dedicated storage spaces, and a unique ladder system allow owners to switch between fishing and diving with ease.

A doublewide seat is at the helm, guest seating in the cockpit and wraparound seating in the open bow. The cockpit features a Bluetooth-compatible speaker system, as well as an entertainment center with a hot/cold sink and optional electric grill. Coolers can be found beneath the aft-facing seats. Below and starboard is the head, with a lounge area and additional equipment storage to port. Powering the DC 325 are twin Yamaha 300s. Several electronics options for Raymarine navigation and equipment are available.

The DC 325 is constructed with a fully integrated fiberglass hardtop, tempered glass windshield system, and hand-laminated hull. The Pursuit Protection plan provides a five-year Hull and Deck Structural warranty, a five-year Blister Free warranty, and a two-year Limited warranty.

Specifications:

LOA: 34′ 6″
Beam: 10′ 10″
Draft: 2′ 8″ (motors down)
Weight: 11,775 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 300/30 U.S. gals.
MSRP: inquire
pursuitboats.com

By Daniel Wagner, Southern Exposure

Bertucci A-4T Nautical Watches

Bertucci Watches introduces their durable, waterproof collection: the new A-4T Nautical line. Perfect for boating enthusiasts and watersport fans, A-4T Nautical watches are crafted with a patented DX3 titanium case and scratch-resistant crystal. All-metal Swiss quartz analog movement keeps on ticking at depths of up to 328 feet and you can choose between a classic high-polish or sporty blue finish for the case. Bands are customized with DX3 Field Nylon, Tridura, or water-resistant leathers in a variety of colors. A-4T Nautical watches have a five-year battery life.

Information:
Bertucci® Consumer Service – BCS
P.O. Box 7920
Gurnee, IL 60031
(866) 665-7327
askenzo@mhbertucci.com
bertucciwatches.com

By Daniel Wagner, Southern Exposure

 

Southern Exposure’s Q&A: Mark Davis, President of Sailors for the Sea

SB: Please tell our readers about Sailors for the Sea and how it came into fruition.
MD: Sailors for the Sea was founded in 2004 with the idea that the boating community has a profound passion for the sea and awareness of the importance of ocean health. Our programs were created to unite the community and give a voice to this collective rallying cry that enables cruisers to help heal the ocean.

SB: How and in what ways has Sailors for the Sea most noticeably impacted not only the marine environment but also the boating industry?
MD: In the last ten years, I believe there has been a noticeable shift in the boating industry and community. The media within the marine industry and beyond has helped share our story of ocean conservation. We have now grown to 2 million media impressions a month, thanks to this impressive industry and our dedicated social media following. Additionally, we have had over 600 events participate in the Clean Regattas program, which greatly changes the norm for running water-based events.

We are also working to protect the marine environment by educating future generations of cruisers with KELP (Kids Environmental Lesson Plans). Whether it’s a 7-year-old in an Opti [sailing race] or a 12-year-old at summer camp, KELP has already connected 45,000 students physically and academically to the marine environment.

SB: In what ways have you seen Sailors for the Sea grow since you started working at the organization? What are you most proud of accomplishing as President?
MD: We have grown tremendously through a rigorous 10-month strategic planning process. In this exercise we have charted a path for scaling up the impact of our programs and created a multi-platform communications plan that will decipher complex ocean health issues for the boating community and enable them to take personal action to improve ocean health.

SB: What is your favorite story or fond memory while working with Sailor for the Sea?
MD: With my one-year anniversary on October 1st, I can say it has been an absolute joy to be able to combine my passion for boating with my work on environmental matters. Our board is exceptional and the management team is extremely talented.

SB: How can boat owners become involved with your organization?
MD: Boat owners and marine lovers alike can start by educating themselves on the issues that our ocean currently faces. Our online periodical Ocean Watch translates the language of marine science into timely and fascinating articles that make ocean health personal and relevant. Each essay has opportunities for individuals to take action that are connected to the ocean health issue they just learned about. Additionally, cruisers can work with their sailing clubs to implement the Clean Regattas program—the world’s only sustainability certification for water-based events. And of course without the generous financial support of donors, we would not be able to have the reach and impact that we do.

SB: What’s new with Sailors for the Sea in 2014-2015?
MD: Just this month we published a new logo on our website and as the year ahead starts to unfold, we will be publishing a pledge to educate cruisers on how to reduce their carbon footprint. I can’t give too much away, but one exciting statistic we recently learned was that if 10 percent of U.S. mariners stopped using single-use plastic bottles for one year, that would reduce our carbon footprint as much as planting 500,000 trees!

SB: Has Sailors for the Sea received any awards?
MD: Yes, just this past February our co-founder and chairman, David Rockefeller, Jr., was named the 2013 YachtWorld Hero.

SB: What are some of the most challenging hurdles you have to face with your organization in this industry?
MD: Within the industry we have not faced many hurdles—people are very excited to protect and heal the ocean. The most important hurdle for us to jump over is connecting cruisers with ocean health issues. When you are on top of the water, it often looks the same whether or not there is a healthy and functioning ecosystem underneath. The most important aspect of ocean conservation is education and helping people understand how their daily actions, purchases and even investments may connect to ocean health—which affects the health of their children and grandchildren!

SB: How often do you frequent the water? Do you own a boat? Tell us more about yourself?
MD: I get out on the water almost every day in my kayak either before or after work to enjoy our beautiful harbor in Newport. During these excursions I pick up any trash I come across, and these trips are a great reminder of why I come into the office and do the work that I do everyday. I am also a proud co-owner of Blue Moon, a 21-foot Ensign, with my sister. I am a native of Mills River, North Carolina, and lived in Wilmington for five years while attending college. During that time I had the opportunity to live on a 47 Grand Banks and a 37 Tartan sailboat. There was nothing finer than living on the ICW and being to get off shore in short order. I spent so much time on the water in my 20s that I earned a USCG 100 Ton Masters License.

SB: Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
MD: At Sailors for the Sea, we define sailors as “a traveler by water” and we want to invite all of your readers to engage in our ocean conservation mission! Visit sailorsforthesea.org to learn more today or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

Webasto Thermo & Comfort Control Marine Sunroofs

Webasto has been manufacturing top-of-the-line automotive sunroofs for over 50 years and now introduces the Thermo & Comfort Control Marine Sunroof Systems. Highest-grade materials are used to construct the retractable, watertight windows to the sky—each comes preassembled with all the equipment required.

Models range from manual aluminum to motorized stainless steel options, and feature robust construction and easy installation. Windows are made of tempered safety glass with a gray tint. You can also opt for the retractable soft-top roof model with customizable fabric color in one of three available sizes to suit your vessel’s needs.

Information:
(800) 860-7866
webasto.com

By Daniel Wagner, Southern Exposure

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