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Where’s your go-to spot to tie up? Whether it’s a favorite hometown marina or annual vacation resort, celebrate their service with Marinalife’s highly anticipated Best Marina Contest! Send your choice of the top marinas of 2023 in two categories: Best Large Marina (over 100 slips) and Best Small Marina (under 100 slips). Submit your selections by October 2, 2023.
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While the job market is not always an easy world to navigate, marine trades associations across the coast work diligently to offer resources and promote a growing industry.
The New England region boasts leading organizations such as the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association (MMTA), who hosted the 19th annual Business of Boating Conference (BOB) in Foxboro, MA, this past January. The event featured award ceremonies and sessions on workforce development, Al marketing tips and tools, boating safety updates, employment law, technological advancements within the industry, government relations, legislative issues, and more.
“Finding employees remains a complex issue within the recreational boating industry,” says Randall Lyons, executive director of MMTA. “Starting with regional and state associations and collaborating with national associations remains critical to finding a long-term solution to this issue. This collaboration allows for support and interaction with member businesses, schools, job seekers, employees and more.”
According to a 2024 U.S. Marine Economy Report from NOAA, tourism and recreation landed as the leading job industry along the Atlantic coast with 66% employment rate in the Northeast and 65% in the Mid-Atlantic, while marine construction reported one of the lowest rates at only 1% in both regions. Even though the regions boasted an overall 13-14% increase in marine jobs from prior years, trades associations continue to support the industry by providing resources, scholarship and certification opportunities, and local advocacy.
One of the main sessions of the BOB Conference focused on supporting an increased pipeline of trained individuals within the state and ensuring businesses support MMTA’s partner schools that continue to expand training programs.
“Associations represent businesses, and businesses represent boaters; the more we can do together, the easier this issue will be to resolve,” says Lyons.
MMTA’s website offers everything from boating safety resources, products, services, news updates and event info to job postings and announcements. The Massachusetts Marine Trades Educational Trust, MMTA’s non-profit foundation, provides an active job board, scholarship opportunities, schools and training programs, and a detailed Massachusetts Boating Industry 101 document. Lyons says one of the most successful programs has been the “Tools of the Trade” benefit where MMTA provides a gift card for tools to a marine employee in need of building their toolbox.
In Newport, RI, the Rhode Island Marine Trade Association (RIMTA) also champions the local marine industry through education, advocacy and environmental stewardship. RIMTA is working in partnership with the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) to revamp their resources and develop a new marine trades website.
Down on the Chesapeake Bay, organizations such as the Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) also offer resources and support industry advocacy. MTAM’s non-profit based out of Annapolis, MD, is dedicated to growing the recreational boating industry and a sustainable workforce for the trades and preservation of Maryland waters.
The MTAM job board stays up to date with publicly accessible listings, and members are represented on marine trades issues before the Maryland legislature and state and federal agencies. Benefits include access to exclusive discounts, resources and opportunities for hands-on training at the Annapolis School of Seamanship and certifications through the American Boat & Yacht Council.
The benefits of a trade job provide endless resources for certifications, on-the-job training and first-hand workforce development. Take advantage of scholarship programs, networking events and opportunities for lifelong careers.
MMTA, a Marinalife partner, sends a thank you to all attendees and presenters who participated in this year’s BOB conference, as well as a special thanks to the sponsors. Download the full list of sponsors below.
The annual Association of Marina Industries (AMI) Conference & Expo recently took place this January at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The three-day event hosted seminars, workshops, receptions and exhibits geared towards marina owners, operators, and industry professionals.
As 2025 officially marks 25 years of Marinalife, the crew kicked off the milestone celebrations at this year’s AMI event by hosting a champagne toast to honor the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards winners. In addition to presenting awards, Marinalife founder Joy McPeters gave a special thanks to long-time partners and members who have contributed over the years.
The all-new Readers’ Choice Awards contest honors the best in class highlighting categories that define what makes a perfect marina destination. Nationwide boaters voted for favorites ranging in everything from best hidden gem, dry storage, boatyard, amenities, dockside bar, entertainment, friendliest staff and most pet-friendly facility to best marina overall.
Marinalife was honored to raise a toast and present awards to the following winners in attendance:
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Best Marina Overall winner recipient:
Michael Torras and Daren Pietsch, Brunswick Landing Marina — Brunswick, GA
Best Dry Storage Marina winner recipient:
Shane Strause, Waterways Marina — Richmond Hill, GA
Best Dockside Bar winner recipient:
Nicholas Mastroianni III, Tiki 52 at Blowing Rocks Marina — Tequesta, FL
Most Pet-Friendly Marina winner recipient:
Christina Martin, Nantucket Boat Basin — Nantucket, MA
Stay tuned for the magazine’s 25th anniversary special edition issue publishing this March featuring the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards winners and articles commemorating the industry over the past 25 years. View all category winners here.
As Marinalife celebrates 25 years of serving the boating community, we are thrilled to announce the winners of the Readers’ Choice Awards, sponsored by Sea Tow, honoring marinas, destinations, and individuals who go above and beyond to create exceptional boating experiences. From hidden gems to luxury amenities, these winners reflect the heart and soul of our vibrant boating community.
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A boater’s haven located along Georgia’s Golden Isles, Brunswick Landing Marina boasts 445+ wet and dry slips, unlimited free laundry, and a reputation for its lively community spirit. With free happy hour socials and yoga classes, it’s no wonder this marina has captured the hearts of boaters nationwide.
“We are absolutely ecstatic to be named the first-place marina for the third consecutive year,” says manager Michael Torras. “This ongoing success is a testament to the incredible team we’ve built at Brunswick Landing Marina and the unwavering support of our loyal customers, who inspire us year after year.”
Nestled in Hilton Head Island, this South Carolina gem offers 178 slips, stunning waterfront views along a lively promenade, award-winning dining and a vibrant calendar of events. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
“We’re so grateful to our guests for their support and proud to represent such a special place on the map of premier marina destinations,” says dockmaster Mason Lemon.
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Tiki 52 at Blowing Rocks Marina
(Tequesta, FL)
With refreshing cocktails and stunning views, Tiki 52 is the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the water.
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(Nantucket, MA)
Four-legged friends are treated like VIPs at this marina, which offers a “Woof Welcome” and pet-friendly amenities.
(Chestertown, MD)
Famous for its lively summer concerts and laid-back beach vibes, Tolchester Marina is the go-to spot for boaters seeking fun and relaxation.
Robbie Smith at Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina
Robbie’s warm welcome and dedication to service have made him a standout favorite among boaters visiting this iconic Bahamas resort.
This year’s awards are extra special as Marinalife celebrates its 25th anniversary of providing tools, resources, and inspiration to the boating community. From connecting boaters with the best marinas to sharing unforgettable destinations, Marinalife is proud to serve as the trusted companion for your adventures on the water.
For more information about the Readers’ Choice Awards and Marinalife, visit www.marinalife.com.
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