Marina Industry December 2021 Buyers' Guide '22 issue

’ E S R SU E Y IS U B DE I U

G

1

MARINA

INDUSTRY December 2021

www.marinaindustry.net

2 INDUSTRY NEWS

7 BUYERS’ GUIDE

Issue 40

23 ON THE WATERFRONT

26 SHOWTIME MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

2

W H AT L I E S

BELOW

W H E N M O T H E R N AT UR E H I T S Y O U W I T H A W I N T E R S T O R M , W H AT L I E S B E L O W T H E S UR FA C E C A N M A K E A L L T H E D I F F E R E N C E

Meet us at Mets in stand EL.201 SF Marina is a world-renowned expert in the development of new or existing premium marinas. We provide state-of-the-art floating breakwaters and concrete pontoons to anyone, anywhere, who is planning to build a marina. And who wants it to still be there after the storm.

W W W . S F M A R I N A . C O M

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

COMMENT/CONTENTS 1

MARINA

INDUSTRY EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

www.marinaindustry.net

Volume 9, Number 40 December 2021

Contact information PUBLISHER Paul Barrett Hartswood Media 8 Lindsey Close, Brentwood, Essex CM14 4PN, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1277 211691 paulbarrett@hartswoodmedia.com

EDITOR AND ADVERTISEMENT SALES David Young Young Editorial Services Tel: +44 (0)1737 551687 youngeditorial1@btinternet.com

PRODUCTION

EDITOR’S COMMENT

I

n this column a year ago, I commented that 2020 was coming to a close, with its postponements, last-minute cancellations and a sense that the economy, particularly the leisure industry, had been put on hold. There were bright spots, however, and I singled out MDL Marinas, which had continued with its investment programme during the year, helping to ensure that all its berth-holders and visitors to its marinas had the best experience possible.

This year, the delayed ICOMIA World Marinas Conference took place from 12-14 October and British visitor Mike Ward, Managing Director of Marina Projects Ltd, reported that as his consultancy had several active projects in the Middle East, the event offered an ideal opportunity to catch up with industry contacts and arrange a number of meetings with its clients whilst in Dubai. He added that the conference provided a great opportunity for networking and it was encouraging to see the continued growth of the marine leisure industry in the region.

The one-off show layout spanning eight halls of the Amsterdam RAI for METSTRADE from 16-18 November doubtless helped the organisers deal with a number of last-minute cancellations and it is understood that exhibitors reported good business enquiries from new contacts. The show was busier than might have been expected and despite precautions taken to avoid transmission of Covid-19, attendees welcomed the measures as they were

able to meet up with those they had not seen for a long time, with Niels Klarenbeek, Maritime Director of METSTRADE, commenting on the thrill that was evident on the faces of exhibitors and visitors as they were able to see each other in person once again.

The pandemic is, of course, still throwing up new variations to test our resilience, but these seem to be less virulent than the initial outbreak, so there is hope that a slow return to normality is now under way.

Although threats of a microscopic nature may be receding, bigger problems caused by increasingly extreme weather events seem to be looming larger on the horizon and, once more, humanity is beginning to react and adapt.

This brings me full circle to MDL Marinas, which has taken a major step forward on its mission to become the UK’s most sustainable marina group. It has partnered with Aqua superPower to install electric boat chargers at five of its marinas, becoming the first UK marina group to offer an electric boat charging solution as part of its commitment to tackle air pollution and reduce carbon emissions (see page 5).

Aqua superPower is said to offer the first fullymarinised dockside network of fast chargers for electric boats. Each station provides AC and DC charging with a current maximum power output of up to 150 kW. David Young

Anthony Wiffen Tel: +44 (0)1460 261011

INDUSTRY NEWS

Mob: 07851 612799

Covered berths for Sanctuary Cove Marina

2

anton_print_1@mac.com

PRINTING Brown Knight and Truscott Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 3BW, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1892 511678

ISSN 2517-7478

©2021 Hartswood Media

NOTICEBOARD

6

TransEurope success at Southampton

MARINA INDUSTRY BUYERS’ GUIDE

7

Brief company profiles of suppliers and list of websites under sections relevant to the marina industry

NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT 23

Front cover: This Marine Travelift 75BFMII mobile

Co-ordinating the service department

boat hoist was supplied to Nielsen Beaumont Marine

SHOWTIME 26 Inspiring program for Marinas22

Inc of San Diego, California. It has a lifting capacity of 75 kg and can haul a variety of vessels measuring up to 30 metres in length (see page 12).

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

2 INDUSTRY NEWS

Covered berths for Sanctuary Cove Marina

H

ost of the annual Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, the 303-berth Gold Coast marina has recently unveiled 48 covered berths, which it says are a first in the Southern Hemisphere.

The 14.5 metre covered berths represent the final stage of the Australian marina’s multi-milliondollar upgrade and have generated strong demand, with most of the spaces reserved during the construction period.

Steve Sammes, General Manager of Sanctuary Cove Marina, said: “The feedback from both boatowners and industry leaders has been astounding. We are elated to have been able to develop unique world-class facilities on the Gold Coast that have caught the eye of the industry internationally.

“These new additions to the

marina are truly putting the Gold Coast on the map as a must-visit location, attracting a high calibre of tourists and vessel-owners that seek out premium facilities and will invest in the Gold Coast community when they arrive.”

The protective sails were designed to integrate with Sanctuary Cove’s

Estuary marina regenerated by Walcon Marine A major project to remove and replace Premier Marinas’ Noss on Dart Marina in the West of England began in the Winter of 2020/21 and today an all-new, 232-berth facility is all but complete. The regenerated marina forms the centrepiece of what will be a sustainable and vibrant community that will sensitively work alongside the natural beauty of the River Dart estuary.

The project began with the removal of the original infrastructure by Walcon Marine, so that it could be removed by a contractor for disposal, after which Walcon moved on to inserting the new piles. Due to the density of the shillet rock that lies under the river, the Walcon Wizard piling barge had to use a vibratory piling technique to insert 102 new mooring piles, a task that took eight months. The site had other challenges for the installation team, not least strong currents and deep waters in some places.

With the piles installed, the walkways and finger pontoons began to be added. The majority of these are of the high specification System 21 type, with special features that include premium fendering and extra wide central ducting along the back walkway for heavy duty cabling.

The layout follows the line of the river, with finger pontoons replacing the previous alongside (two deep!) format.

Walcon’s heavy-duty Waliflote pontoons with reinforced guides and frames have been used at the upper end of the marina to protect it from debris coming downstream, while the outer pier at the downstream end of the marina is comprised of five 20 x 3 metre concrete pontoons, each weighing 32 tonnes.

Over the coming months, Walcon will complete the marina with the addition of the remaining pontoons and the supply and installation of a new bridgehead and a fuel dock.

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

distinct aesthetic, with the shade structures resembling ‘ribbons in the breeze’.

Andy Vollmer, Superior Jetties’ Commercial Project Manager, said the structures of the covered berths provided a unique challenge as the first of their kind in Australia. “We didn’t have a blueprint to follow or

marina to copy, which meant we had to find innovative construction solutions to complete structures in or above the water that would normally be completed on land.”

Superior Jetties worked closely with sub-contractor Vector Shade Structures, which confirmed a total of 275 tonnes of steel was used across the entire project. Each sail weighs 3.5 tonnes and uses Valmex® FR 700 from German company Mehler Texnologies to create what is described as a 100% waterproof fabric that blocks out light and UV transmission.

Sam Burke, owner and Director of Vector Shade Structures, added: “We look forward to seeing the shades become a pillar of the marine community and have the stunning ribbon-resemblant structure become a Gold Coast landmark.”

Best Marina on Sydney Harbour Birkenhead Point Marina has been recognised as the best marina facility on Sydney Harbour and one of the finest in the world when, for the second time, it was reaccredited by the Marina Industries Association (MIA) as a Five Gold Anchor Platinum Marina.

As the largest privately-owned floating marina on Sydney Harbour, it comprises over 200 full-service marina berths, world-class amenities, personally-serviced dockside refuelling and a fivestar club lounge, with high-end integrated kitchen amenities.

Tenants and guests also have access to laundry facilities, luxury en-suite bathrooms and can safely store all their boating equipment in clean, dry, secure storage spaces on-site. Its location facilitates convenient access to high-end shopping, quality restaurants and bars, as well as magnificent surrounding parklands.

The international accreditation of Five Gold Anchor Platinum is

Left to right: Andrew Chapman, MIA President; John Spragg, MIA Vice-President; Phil McGowen, Marina Manager; and Stefan Borzecki, MIA Director. the highest accolade that the industry awards globally and is reserved for marinas offering their customers a comprehensive, unique marina experience by providing tailored personalised service and an outstanding array of high-quality facilities and amenities. Birkenhead Point Marina is one of only three Platinum marinas in Australia and remains part of an exclusive club of less than a dozen marinas across the globe that have been recognised with this award.

A

S

S

R

3

OC

I AT E M EM

B

E

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

4

Anti-Slip Pontoon & Harbour Solutions for the MARINA INDUSTRY

LONG-LAST ING, LOW-MAIN TENANCE ALTERNATI VES TO

WPC Decking TIMBER & GRP Gangways STEEL GRP Walkways GRP Bridge Decks GRP Hand Railing GRP Decking Strips GRP Pontoon Ladders GRP Ramps & Slipways GRP Anti-Slip Marina Grating GRP Maintenance Platforms

www.decksafe.co.uk 01206 322 899

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

4 INDUSTRY NEWS

Founding member of Bellingham Marine passes

P

ete Gaasland, a marina industry pioneer and a member of Bellingham Marine’s founding family, passed away on 12 November, 2021.

An accomplished businessman, Pete was the driving force behind the mass adoption of the use of the concrete floating dock system for marinas and other numerous applications for the marina industry.

Bellingham Marine was incorporated in 1928 with the Gaasland family acquiring ownership in 1942. When Pete completed college in 1959, he joined the family business where he rose through the ranks at Bellingham Marine and led the company from 1968 through 1995.

During his stewardship, Bellingham Marine emerged as a global leader in the design and production of floating concrete docks. Bellingham

Marine has changed ownership since the Gaasland era, but many of his principles have been retained by the company to this day.

Many iconic projects were built during Pete’s tenure with the company, but perhaps the most notable was the Port of Seattle’s Shilshole Bay Marina. This 1,500-berth marina established the company’s reputation and products as a leader in the field of marina design and construction.

“The Bellingham Marine team is saddened by the loss of Pete Gaasland. We extend our sincere condolences and sympathy to Pete’s family. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time,” said Joe Ueberroth, the current owner of Bellingham Marine.

Pete is survived by his wife, Susan, and his four daughters Carrie, Cindy, Katie and Kelli.

Superyacht base for Fiji Fresh from redeveloping the marina at the iconic Marina Mirage on the Gold Coast’s Broadwater, marine construction company GCMarine is setting sail to the South Pacific, with a major contract for a superyacht base in Fiji. The company has been contracted to design, supply and install a full turn-key marina for Fiji Nawi Island off the fast-developing tourist hotspot of Savusavu.

Under the $8.9 million build contract, the marina will be constructed on the Gold Coast then transported to Fiji where it is expected to be a major attraction for the burgeoning array of superyachts that have taken to the seas amid a boom in the multi-billion-dollar global luxury boat industry.

GCMarine Managing Director Matt Browning said the floating components of the marina would be manufactured at the Gold Coast and

then shipped to Fiji where staff who had relocated to the island nation would complete the installation.

Browning explained that the 130-berth marina, including 17 superyacht berths, had been designed to handle a Category 5 Cyclone and included all the amenities of a world-class facility.

“Freight and shipping to get from Australia to Fiji and then on to the other Fiji island has been quite a challenge. However, local Fiji companies welcome the project and have been a pleasure to deal with so far,” he agreed.

Browning said the GCMarine system could be built anywhere in the world, adding that, with Fiji being known for cyclones, it was imperative for the success of the project that a system was chosen to be able to be adapted for the climate there.

INDUSTRY NEWS 5

MDL installs electric boat chargers

D

elivering on its commitment to tackle air pollution and reduce carbon emissions, MDL Marinas has partnered with Aqua superPower to install electric boat chargers at five of its marinas, becoming the first UK marina group to offer an electric boat charging solution.

Having recently launched its Green Strategy, the new electric charging points to be installed at its Cobb’s Quay, Hamble Point, Sparkes, Windsor and Ocean Village marinas are a major step forward on MDL’s mission to become the UK’s most sustainable marina group, developing a culture of environmental awareness and care amongst its customers and teams.

“We recognised that for the electric boat market to grow, it’s essential that a charging network is developed to service these boats,” said Tim Mayer, Sales and Marketing Director at MDL. “We’re delighted to be partnering with Aqua superPower to be able to support people wishing to make their boating more sustainable by offering rapid charging for electric boats across our marinas”. Michael Glanville, MDL’s Managing Director, added: “We’ve chosen to join forces with Aqua superPower, not just because we believe it has developed the best marine electric charging solution at this time, but because its mission

The Aqua 75 dual CCS configuration supercharging two electric boats simultaneously (picture courtesy of Aqua superPower Ltd). aligns with our aim to help reduce the impact of boating on the marine environment”.

Aqua superPower has developed a network of fast chargers for electric boats. Each station is built to IP65 standard, providing dual simultaneous DC charging up to 75 kW, allowing electric boats to rapidly recharge and extend their autonomy. “We are delighted to be working with MDL Marinas, who

are widely recognised as a cornerstone of British yachting and known for leading the way in terms of innovation,” stated Alex Bamberg, CEO of Aqua superPower. “Aqua’s mission is to reduce the impact of boating on the marine environment and to help marina-owners with the switch to electric power as part of their decarbonisation efforts.

“While the marine sector may lag behind others in terms of deployment, the massive growth of electric vehicles on the highway has proved that electrification is the way forward. When you’re asking a consumer to make significant investment in an electric boat, you want to assure them they can have the charging that suits their lifestyle. Access to a charging infrastructure that offers a reliable ‘plug & charge’ experience offering features like charge point visibility is essential for boat builders and their customers if they are to develop the confidence to transition away from liquid carbon fuels.”

Tim concluded, “This is just the first step in tackling marine and air pollution in line with our new Green Strategy, but we’ve put our head above the parapet and are investing heavily for the good of the environment and the boating industry. We’re also looking forward to working with local authorities and other marine companies to further increase the electric boat charging infrastructure”.

Since 1963 Walcon has proven itself to be a worldwide leader in the design, construction and installation of marinas and berthing facilities, with renowned quality and first class service.

Shepperton Marina

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021 A5L_Walcon_Marina Industry 22.indd 1

22/12/2021 12:17

6 NOTICEBOARD NOTICEBOARD

TransEurope success at Southampton

UK members of TransEurope Marinas have once again enjoyed a successful day at the Southampton Boat Show as both Mayflower Marina and Emsworth Yacht Harbour claimed Towergate UK Coastal Marina of the Year crowns and members picked up four of the ‘Employee of the Year’ Special Mentions.

An annual competition run within Gold Anchor certified marinas, the contest hinges on votes sent in by members of the public and marina berth-holders, focussing on the quality of the marina facilities and the service provided by marina staff. The ‘Employee of the Year’ award rightly offers recognition to individuals within marina teams whose work and efforts particularly stand out.

TransEurope Marinas’ UK members have traditionally obtained excellent results each year and 2021 was no different with Mayflower Marina reclaiming Towergate’s UK Coastal Marina of the Year (over 250 berths) and Emsworth Yacht Harbour winning the Coastal Marina of the Year for marinas with under 250 berths.

Environmental award for Turkish marina

Camper & Nicholsons Marina, together with IC Holdings, is delighted to announce that IC Cesme Marina, one of the most important yacht marinas of the Eastern Mediterranean, has been awarded the Green Apple Award 2021 by demonstrating outstanding environmentally-friendly projects, including the most recent ‘Trepang and Squid Nests and Artificial Reef Project’. It has already won two previous Green Apple Awards.

Bora Ergezgin, Marina General Manager and Operations Manager at the full-service Cesme Marina, commented: “It is a great privilege to be recognised once again by the Green Apple Awards. Future-proofing our marina environment for the best and most authentic experience for berth-holders, visitors and marine life is so important to us”.

In 2022, Cesme Marina is planning to add a ‘Seagrass Project’ to increase underwater vitality in and around the marina.

Brazilian office for SF Marina

Sweden’s SF Marina, which manufactures floating docks, breakwaters and concrete structures, has added an office in Sao Paulo, Brazil, to its list of contacts in South America. Led by Ernani Paciornik, SF Marina Brazil functions as the official agent in the country and strengthens the parent company’s global production and distribution network. “While known for its beautiful beaches, Brazil sees its fair share of tropical cyclones,” said Michael Sigvardsson, CEO of SF Marina. “That’s why our products are so ideal for the region.

Built to withstand the most violent weather events, when the storm passes, they’re still there.”

SF Marina Brazil operates under the Grupo Náutica umbrella of marine businesses. The 40-year-old firm is the largest nautical-oriented company in the country and has extensive development experience throughout the region. Its website is www.gruponautica.com.br

New ‘go to’ boating resource for Australia

Finding a suitable marina, maintenance facility or a good marine trade in a particular location has long been a challenge, but it’s just become a whole lot easier. The Marina Industries Association (MIA) has recently launched My Marina Guide, a new map-based, online directory of all marinas, yacht clubs and boatyards in Australia, along with a growing range of service providers, who are listing their businesses on the site.

The easy-to-navigate map enables users to zoom in on a location and see all the marinas and boatyards in the area.

The site also enables users to search for marine service providers by location.

Suzanne Davies, CEO of the MIA, confirmed: “The aim is that the My Marina Guide will become the ‘go to’ resource for the boating public as they seek berthing and maintenance facilities, boating maintenance service providers and retailers that can provide for all their boating needs wherever they are”.

Visit www.mymarinaguide.com to learn more or to list a business free of charge.

Jobs in the marine industry

With more than 200 jobs posted and almost 20,000 visits to the Marine Jobs website (www.marinejobs.org.au) since it was launched by the Marina Industries Association in July, 2021, employers and job-seekers alike are reaping the benefits of this new careers platform for the industry.

Job seekers can sign up to receive the latest featured jobs straight to their inbox with the new ‘Job Flash’ service, and employers can keep up to date with new features, how to get the most out of job posts and helpful recruitment tips by signing up for regular ‘Employer Updates’.

Subscribe to receive Job Flash e-mails on: www. confirmsubscription.com/h/y/22AC79B1FB9EDF61 Subscribe to receive Employer Update e-mails: www. confirmsubscription.com/h/y/F7455067EE0FDE19

Editorial Features in February 2022

MARINA

INDUSTRY MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

Boat lifting and moving c Dry stack solutions Maritime logistics c Marina visit to Norway

Deadline: 11 February

NOTICEBOARD INDUSTRY NEWS 7

MARINA

INDUSTRY December 2021

www.marinaindustry.net

Issue 40

MARINA Buyers’ Guide &

INDUSTRY Directory 2022

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

8 METSTRADE

WORLD LEADERS IN WATERWAY CLEANUP

Water Witch provide Marinas, Harbour Authorities, Waterway management and waterfront resort operations with cost-effective, efficient solutions for the management and cleanup of the marine environment by employing the firm’s tried and tested range of customisable craft.

The multi-purpose range of workboats and trash-skimmers can perform many functions, including debris collection, aquatic weed harvesting, trash removal, mobile pump-out, oil spill response and marina maintenance roles.

These craft are supported by a worldwide network of experienced distributors and technical representatives.

More information from: www.waterwitch.com E-mail: info@waterwitch.com Tel: +44 (0)151 207 4874 MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

9

MARINA

INDUSTRY EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

www.marinaindustry.net

Volume 9, Number 40 December 2021

Contact information PUBLISHER

Buyers’ Guide & Directory 2022

T

his Buyers’ Guide features brief company profiles of suppliers of equipment and services to the marina industry. The Directory of suppliers on page 20-21 lists companies, together with their websites, under sections relevant to operators seeking to improve their marinas and enhance the services they

offer to berth-holders, visiting yachts and the general population of the area in which they are located.

The Guide is designed as a pull-out section, occupying the centre 16 pages of the issue, so that readers can remove these pages and retain them for use as a reference throughout the year.

Paul Barrett Hartswood Media 8 Lindsey Close, Brentwood, Essex CM14 4PN, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1277 211691 paulbarrett@hartswoodmedia.com

EDITOR AND ADVERTISEMENT SALES David Young Young Editorial Services Tel: +44 (0)1737 551687 youngeditorial1@btinternet.com

PRODUCTION Anthony Wiffen Tel: +44 (0)1460 261011 Mob: 07851 612799 anton_print_1@mac.com

PRINTING Brown Knight and Truscott Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 3BW, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1892 511678

ISSN 2517-7478

©2021 Hartswood Media

Decksafe Solutions 10 Jetfloat International GmbH 10 Lee Sanitation Ltd 11 Marina Projects Ltd 12 Marine Travelift Inc 12 Pacsoft International Ltd 14 RMCS Marina and Holiday Park Solutions Ltd 14 Rolec Services Ltd 16 Roodberg 16 SF Marinas 17 Walcon Marine Ltd 17 Water Witch Workboats 18 Wickens Engineering Ltd 18

Cover: Premier Marinas’ Noss on Dart Marina in the West of England has been regenerated by Walcon Marine, with the installation of new piles and the addition of walkways and finger pontoons.

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

10 COMPANY PROFILES

DeckSafe Solutions

E

stablished ten years ago, DeckSafe Solutions has provided specialist Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) flooring to marinas across the world and, as the Winter season approaches and even the keenest sailors opt for dry land, now is the busiest season for the DS team.

GRP offers a perfect alternative to timber. On a practical level, it is impervious to salt and fresh water, never warps or fades and resists algae growth. QuartzGrip Mini Mesh, also known as Marina Decking, boasts a slip-resistant finish that works in wet, icy or even oily conditions while the mesh structure allows water to drain away. It can be laid over concrete surfaces or used with GRP profiles to build complete structures to sit on land or in the water. Aesthetically, mini mesh is available in a range of colours, is comfortable to walk on – even in lightweight shoes and sandals – and looks smarter and cleaner than wood or concrete.

For a more traditional approach with better slip-resistance, DeckSafe also supplies RecoDeck Composite Decking boards. Almost indistinguishable in appearance

to real timber decking, it offers low-maintenance benefits, is unaffected by salt or fresh water, never needs to be sanded, painted or stained and won’t warp, rot or split. Suitable for use on pontoons, jetties and walkways, it is also ideal for outdoor seating and dining areas. WPC Decking is stocked in a range of natural wood finishes complete with trim and fixings.

DeckSafe Solutions can provide a full, turnkey service if necessary, from advising on the best approach to take through to design, fabrication and installation.

DeckSafe Solutions sales@deck-safe.co.uk www.decksafe.co.uk

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

Jetfloat International GmbH

Based in Austria, JETFLOAT International has been a leading manufacturer of modular floating elements since 1971 and uses only the highest quality HDPE for its products.

Due to the use of pure raw material and the strictly-controlled production in its plant, JETFLOAT modules withstand the strongest weather conditions and resist fading due to ultra-violet light.

They have also been installed in the coldest countries of the world for decades without problems caused by frost and, because of the material used in their production, heavy use over long periods does not cause any changes in shape as

proved during numerous tests.

The low-maintenance modules are made of certified Lupolen 5261 Z material, which is verifiably rot-proof and food-safe, as well as being resistant to the effects of salt water and acid pollution.

Single elements measure 50 cm long x 50 cm wide x 40 cm high and weigh 6 kg. Double elements (illustrated) are 100 cm wide x 50 cm wide x 40 cm high and weigh 11 kg. Each size is available in black, light blue, light grey and sand.

JETFLOAT International GmbH office@jetfloat-international. com www.jetfloat-international. com

COMPANY PROFILES 11

S

Lee Sanitation Ltd

ince 1991, Lee Sanitation (LeeSan) has specialised in the design, installation and maintenance of sewage pump-out stations at both coastal and inland locations.

During this time, it has acquired vast experience in supplying quayside pump-out systems for any size of marina and harbour, including workboat landing stages.

Now a member of the Pump Technology Group, LeeSan is capable of specifying, supplying and supporting clients with all manner of sanitation equipment, including toilets, tanks, pipework, water and waste pumps, valves and all ancillary equipment for any type of leisure craft or workboat and if advice is needed, support and help is readily available on the telephone from skilled staff at the company’s office in Warwickshire, which is close to major transport

links in the English Midlands.

LeeSan stocks an extensive range of products at its 6,500 sq ft warehouse and can provide spare parts for most marine toilets and pumps – new models as well as

those dating back many years.

Its ‘One stop pump shop’ includes manufacturers such as Whale, Jabsco, Raritan, Rheinstrom, Blakes, Microphor, Sanimarin, Dometic/Sealand, Rule, Lowara,

Tru-design, Gobius, LeeStrom, Grundfos, DAB, Mono and many more.

Lee Sanitation Ltd sales@leesan.com www.leesan.com

Creating berthing people want to come home to

“Not only do Inland and Coastal Marina Systems produce durable pontoon systems, the team works with what currently exists, making more efficient use of time, resources and budget.”

Christopher Odling-Smee, MD, The Marine Group

Call for a free GRC decking demonstration sales@inlandandcoastal.com | www.inlandandcoastal.com Ireland +353 579 153 963 | Scotland +44 1343 813 233 | England +44 2394 002 797 dada2077 Inland & Coastal 186x130 ad AW.indd 1

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021 11/12/2020 17:54

12 COMPANY PROFILES

Marina Projects Ltd

F

ounded in 2002, Marina Projects has grown to become one of the world’s leading marina consultancies. With offices in the UK, Cyprus and Hong Kong, the company is able to provide its expertise across the globe as shown by its successful projects worldwide such as the Lantau Yacht Club in Hong Kong (illustrated).

It works with a wide range of clients, including government bodies, commercial organisations, private developers and investment groups, and collaborates with worldrenowned architects, engineers and other professionals to deliver a client’s vision for any marina or integrated waterfront project.

Marina Projects is certified to the ISO 9001:2015 standard.

By maintaining a robust and effective Quality Management System, it is able to demonstrate its continued commitment to providing the highest quality of service to clients by continually improving processes and procedures to ensure any marina project meets its ultimate goals.

It has also adapted to overcome the challenges posed by Covid-19.

The Directors and senior management have over 200 years’ combined experience in the marina and marine leisure field, and are fully committed to continually develop the company and invest in its employees.

Marina Projects Ltd enquiries@marinaprojects.com www.marinaprojects.com

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

Marine Travelift Inc

With over 60 years of innovation in boat moving techniques and an established reputation for manufacturing world-class boat handling equipment, the team at Marine Travelift, aided by its global network of dealers, understands that it takes hard work to achieve satisfied clients.

From in-house engineers to its knowledgeable CustomerCare team, the company works with marina-owners and boatyard operators to build the machines that keep them in motion for years to come. However, support doesn’t end when a hoist is delivered. Marine Travelift provides operation and service training in the field before the equipment begins

service and, once in use, highlytrained technicians are ready for immediate attendance.

If a repair becomes necessary, only genuine Marine Travelift replacement parts are supplied to match the original specifications of specific machines. An extensive in-house inventory of parts reduces lead times, with global shipping and online parts for same-day order processing.

Marine Travelift implements a quality system, certified by QAS according to Standard ISO 9001:2015, which allows it to offer customers a higher level of consistency with its products and services.

Marine Travelift Inc sales@marinetravelift.com www.marinetravelift.com

COMPANY PROFILES 13

Naval Tecno Sud Naval Tecno Sud specialises in the design, production and supply of equipment for use in boatyards and to store and transport leisure craft in marinas.

It offers a high quality range of cradles, boat stands, safety steps, work platforms dry stack storage racks and fixed and mobile booths for painting and other maintenance tasks.

Versatile boat trailers, both self-propelled and towable, are also available.

Naval Tecno Sud Srl, Via Pino Pascali 28, 70010 Valenzano BA, Italy.

Tel: +39 393 5493586 E-mail: navaltecnosudboatstand@gmail.com Website: www.navaltecnosud.it

www.navaltecnosud.it

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

14 COMPANY PROFILES

S

Pacsoft International Ltd

upporting all the needs of a marine business to maximise growth, PacsoftNG marina management software is a one-stop marine management software solution catering for marinas, harbours and yacht clubs, providing small and large operations with a comprehensive set of rich features to run all aspects of the business.

This software allows both time and money to be saved through automating and integrating daily tasks, serving customers more effectively while maintaining tight control over business processes and performance.

The system provides enhanced management insight and control as its ‘Visual Marina’ provides a simple and easy audit for management to ensure the invoicing system is up-to-date and accurate. Staff can make fast, informed decisions based

on accurate, current and future data, with information at the user’s fingertips. Integrated accounts receivable allows quick and efficient resolution of customer queries online,

visibility of outstanding balances and easy overdue debt chasing.

It also has the ability to interface with ‘Utility Metering Systems’ and can turn meter on, allocate to a boat,

record meter readings, take final reading and turn meter off.

Pacsoft International Ltd sean@pacsoftmms.com www.pacsoftmms.com

RMCS Marine Services The Marine Services team of dedicated industry professionals at Marine and Holiday Park Solutions Ltd (RMCS) can handle all aspects of a project, including design, manufacture, supply, installation and management of marine service pedestals at inland and coastal marinas, as well as top-of-the-range facilities for superyachts.

RMCS moved into a purpose-built factory at Spalding, Lincolnshire in 2016 from where its range of comprehensive and competitively-priced equipment is despatched to customers in the British Isles, Ireland, Europe, the Middle East and further afield.

Two years ago, the NEO range of anodised aluminium electricity and water pedestals was added to the range of pedestals and

metering systems offered

by RMCS. These IP-rated pedestals are particularly suitable for installation at marinas subject to harsh environmental conditions.

They complement those already produced by RMCS and also feature an SOS station to expand the company’s portfolio.

RMCS provides customers with the assurance of over 30 years’ experience in the marina industry and has built up an enviable reputation for service and quality.

The company has sales representatives all over the world, so there are no limitations on the location or size of project that can be undertaken.

RMCS sales@rmcs.co.uk www.rmcs.co.uk

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

BOAT STORAGE 15

DRY STACK BOAT STORAGE SYSTEMS DESIGN

MANUFACTURE

INSTALLATION

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021 sales@wickens.co.uk │ www.wickens.co.uk │ +44 (0)1905 456780

16 COMPANY PROFILES

Rolec Services Ltd

F

or over 30 years, Rolec has specialised in the design, manufacture, supply and installation of service pedestals and associated products for marinas and waterside locations.

The organisation’s dedicated team of experienced and professional engineers provides advice and support during every step of a client’s marina services development. Whilst offering the largest array of high quality marine grade marina solutions, its team are ‘all hands on deck’ from project conception to completion.

The extensive range of Rolec marina products and utility services has earned a reputation for providing ideal solutions, suitable for all locations and budgets, which can be seen across numerous destinations, from prestigious marinas and waterfronts to smaller scale

projects. There are now over 25 variations available in its range of service pedestals, so there is a solution for every site.

Options vary from the renowned Classic Pedestal (illustrated), the sophisticated Quantum Pedestal, the unique Fin pedestals and the ultramodern Titan Waterfront USB Charging Pedestal, which are all available in various sizes to suit a variety of different requirements.

Rolec also manufactures emergency service equipment, sanitation pump-out systems and pontoon lighting, as well as various modern metering and management systems.

Rolec Services Ltd rolec@rolecserv.co.uk www.rolecserv.com

Roodberg/Frisian Industries BV Since it was established in 1936, Roodberg (a trade name of Frisian Industries BV) has developed, produced and supplied top-of-theline boat hoists and trailers for use on slipways and to transport craft for yacht builders, boatyards and marinas. The company employs innovative technologies based on over 70 years’ of experience in designing and building both hydraulic and electric hoisting and transportation systems.

Roodberg has concentrated its development, engineering, production, assembly and service operations under one roof, which makes it possible to reduce the time taken to manufacture and deliver orders to a minimum. This makes the production lines and delivery times short and allows the company to respond quickly as new developments and technologies emerge. It also enables customised equipment to be built for customers MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

without delay.

Its wide range of hoisting and moving systems are developed and

manufactured both in standard series and according to clients’ specifications.

Roodberg info@roodberg.com www.roodberg.com

COMPANY PROFILES 17

SF Marina

G

othenburg-based SF Marina, with its main production facility located at Walllhamn on the West Coast of Sweden, celebrated its centenary last year. The company’s heritage began with the construction of Brandholmens shipyard in 1918 to specialise in concrete structures for use on water and it was not

long before floating concrete pontoons became the main product manufactured by the enterprise.

A continuous programme of development and innovation honed though experience shaped by installations in Sweden, where harsh Winter conditions are a good test of marina infrastructure, enabled

the company to design pontoons and breakwaters that provided the strength and durability to perform well under a wide range of difficult conditions from Tropical heat to Arctic ice, as well as challenges presented by storms, tides and constant exposure to salt water and ultraviolet light.

In 1972, SF Marina was chosen as a supplier to the Summer Olympics and delivered pontoons used by six sailing classes at

the event. This was followed by another ‘first’ in 1983, when it installed its first marina in the USA at Boston Yacht Club.

Two years later, the company moved to its new factory in Wallhamn from where pontoons weighing up to 250 tons can be loaded directly on to ships moored at a deep-water quay for delivery anywhere in the world.

SF Marina info@sfmarina.com www.sfmarina.com

Walcon Marine Ltd

Founded in 1963, Walcon Marine is a market leader in the design, construction and installation of marinas, yacht harbours and berthing facilities around the world. As probably the longestestablished and most experienced company in its field, Walcon Marine is a global organisation with manufacturing facilities in the UK and Australia.

Its range of walkway and finger pontoons caters for every need, from low freeboard versions for dinghies and paddleboards to its tubular steel Docking Solutions pontoons for workboats, fishing boats and superyachts, as well as other specialist units for exposed locations.

Today, its pontoons and associated infrastructure can be found in over 30 different countries on five continents. Notable projects in 2021 have included the complete removal and replacement of the

Noss on Dart Marina in the UK’s West Country, resulting in a brandnew, 232-berth facility.

A full list of recent projects and services can be viewed on the company’s website.

Walcon Marine Ltd sales@walconmarine.com www.walconmarine.com MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

18 MARINA VISIT

T

Water Witch Workboats

his family-owned business aims to provide costeffective, efficient solutions to help clean up the marine

environment and is estimated to have cleared more than two million tonnes of plastic trash from the ocean.

Over 200 of the company’s debris collection and trash retrieval workboats operate around the world, including Hong Kong, New York, Cape

Town, Kuwait and London. Its range of workboats has been developed to offer users a versatile, multi-purpose craft or pontoon boat that can perform a wide variety of duties in addition to efficient aquatic trash and debris removal.

The Versi-Cat workboat is extremely adaptable for applications such as providing a fast-response to marine pollution, supplying a mobile pump-out service, lifting moorings (with removable lifting frame), diving and maintenance support.

The design incorporates various ‘pods’ that sit between the twin hulls, enabling many tasks to be undertaken. The pod system allows heavy items to be loaded directly on to the quayside and lifted aboard the vessel via a crane with no need to manhandle the equipment to the water.

Water Witch Workboats info@waterwitch.com www.waterwitch.com

Wickens Engineering Ltd

A leading dry stack boat storage system manufacturer in the UK, Wickens’ Dry Stack Storage racks are known for their robust design, utilising heavy duty steel beam sections that provide long life and high levels of performance in difficult climatic conditions, together with many other dry stack MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

storage benefits. They are suitable for storing motorboats, rigid inflatable boats and jet skis.

All products comply with current British and CE marking standards, including: minimum safety factor of 2.0 based on ultimate tensile strength; hot dipped galvanised finish to cope with the most

arduous coastal weather; and heavy duty structural steel beam sections in construction for maximum strength.

Wickens is an accredited member of the British Marine Federation and The Yacht Harbour Association.

It offers a full project management

service, including installation, and supplies a certificate of conformity with each finished project to provide peace of mind and complete confidence for marina owners and operators.

Wickens Engineering Ltd enquiries@wickens.co.uk www.wickens.co.uk

MARINA VISIT 19

Complete Pump-Out Range For Every Application

Simple Operation

Efficient & Reliable

Clean & Compact

Bespoke Applications

Mobile Solutions

T: 01295 770000 sales@leesan.com

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

20 DIRECTORY OF SUPPLIERS BOAT LIFTING AND MOVING Alto Service Italia Srl www.altoservice.it Ascom SpA www.ascom-italy.it BoatLift Srl www.boatlift.it Cimolai Technology SpA www.cimolaitechnology.com FGM. Tecnology Srl www.fgmtecnology.com GH Cranes & Components www.ghcranes.com Golden Manufacturing Inc www.goldenboatlifts.com Hostar Marine Transport Systems Inc www.hostarmarine.com Kropf Industrial Inc www.kropfindustrial.com Marine Travelift Inc www.marinetravelift.com Roodberg/Frisian Industries BV www.roodberg.com Wiggins Lift Co Inc www.wigginslift.com Wise Handling Ltd www.wiseboathoists.co.uk

BOATYARD EQUIPMENT Brownell Boat Stands www.boatstands.com

Sailing Technologies www.sailingtechnologies.com

Ibericamar SL www.ibericamar.es

Smart Antifouling www.smart-antifouling.com

Naval Tecno Sud www.navaltecnosud.it

Solbian Energie Alternative Srl www.solbian.eu

Port-Safety www.port-safety.com

CONSULTANCIES

Potona Marine Co Ltd www.potona.com

Arrol Consultancy www.arrol.com

Reid Lifting Ltd www.reidlifting.com

Camper & Nicholsons Marinas Ltd www.cnmarinas.com Daniel S. Natchez and Associates Inc www.dsnainc.com International Waterfront Consultants www.iwclic.com Marina Management Services Inc www.marinamanagement.com Marina Projects Ltd www.marinaprojects.com Marina Solutions International www.marinasolutionsintl.com MDL Marina Consultancy www.mdlconsultancy.com Salt Technologies www.lindley.pt

DECKING DeckSafe Solutions Ltd www.decksafe.co.uk Dura Composites Ltd www.duracomposites.com

Gisatex GmbH & Co KG www.gisatex.de

Pro Composites www.procomposites.co.uk

International NDT Ltd www.int-ndt.com

ThruFlow Inc www.thruflow.comTitanDeck

International Yacht Paint www.international-yachtpaint.com

Voyager Industries www.titandeck.net

Nautipark www.nautipark.com

DOCK FIXTURES

Naval Tecno Sud Srl www.navaltecnosud.it

Aister www.aister.com

Nitty-Gritty Srl www.nitty-gritty.it

Atlantic Aluminium & Marine Products www.atlanticaluminiummarine.com

Sidermarine Sl www.sidermarine.com Xunzel www.xumzel.com

DRY STACK STORAGE Capria SA www.domingocapria.com Drystack Australia Pty Ltd www.drystackaustralia.com.au Nautipark www.nautipark.com Wickens Engineering Ltd www.wickens.co.uk

FENDERS Den Hartog Industries Inc www.denhartogindustries.com E.V.A. Bumper di SL www.evabumper.com Ibericamar SL www.ibericamar.es Inmare Srl www.inmare.net Polytec Thelen GmbH www.polytec-industrial.com Portmere Rubber Ltd www.portmererubber.co.uk SeaEQ GmbH www.seaeq.com Walcon Marine Ltd www.walconmarine.com

MARINA MANAGEMENT Harbour Assist www.harbourassist.com Havenstar www.havenstar.com Marina Master www.marina-master.com Marinacloud www.marinacloud.net Nauticspot www.nauticspot.fr Aister’s pontoons installed at Marina Rubicón on Lanzarote in the Canary Islands are decked with tropical hardwood.

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

Pacsoft International www.pacsoftmms.com

DIRECTORY OF SUPPLIERS 21 MODULAR DOCK SYSTEMS Buldock Ltd www.buldock.com Jetfloat www.jetfloat.com Magic-Float www.magicfloat.ru Marine IP Ltd www.versadock.com Marine Floor Europe SAS www.marinefloor.fr PMS Dockmarine www.pmsdockmarine.com TAFF Modular Floating System www.taf-f.com

Port Solent Marina operated by Premier Marinas on the South Coast of England employs a Water Witch Versi-Cat workboat to remove floating litter.

Seaflex www.seaflex.net

Ronautica Marinas www.ronauticamarinas.com

Shoreline Plastics www.shorelineplastics.com

SF Marina www.sfmarina.com

POLLUTION CONTROL

Solent Marine Ltd www.solentmarina.com

IADYS www.iadys.com

System Group Marine Division www.systemgroupmarine.com

Wave International www.waveintrnational.co.uk

Walcon Marine Ltd www.walconmarine.com

PONTOONS

Yacht Port Marinas SL www.ypmarinas.com

Aister www.aister.com

PUMP-OUT SYSTEMS

ATIC www.atic.fr

Edson International www.edsonpumps.com

Bellingham Marine Industries www.bellingham-marine.com

Keco Pump & Equipment www.pumpahead.com

Bluet Oy Ltd www.bluet.fi

Lee Sanitation Ltd www.leesan.com

Bluewater Marine & Dock Specialities Inc www.bluewaterdocks.com

Sanitrade Srl www.sanitrade.it

Clement Germany GmbH www.clement-germany.de

SIGNAGE AND BEACONS

Gael Force www.gaelforcemarinas.com

Almarin SL www.almarin.es

Ingemar Srl www.ingemar.it

WORKBOATS

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems Ltd www.inlandandcoastal.com

EcoTank www.ecotank-worldwide.com

Marina Pods www.marinapods.com

Efinor Sea Cleaner www.seacleaner.efinor.com

Seijsener Marina Services www.seijsener.com

Marinetek Finland Oy www.marinetek.fi

Water Witch Workboats www.waterwitch.com

Sureline Electrical Modules Ltd www.sureline-em.co.uk

Martini Alfredo SpA www.martinialfredo.it

YACHT TRANSPORT

PILING AND ANCHORING

Metalu Marinas www.metalu.com

DYT Yacht Transport www.yacht-transport.com

DualDocker GmbH www.dualdocker.com

Poralu Marine www.poralu.com

Peters & May Ltd www.petersandmay.com

Hazelett Marine www.hazelettmarine.com

Potona Marine Co Ltd www.potona.com

Sevenstar Yacht Transport BV www.sevenstar-yacht-transport.com

PEDESTALS Depagne www.depagne.fr Eaton Marina Power & Lighting www.marinapower.com Gigieffe Srl www.gigieffe.com Hubbell Marine www.hubbell-marine.com Jo Bird www.jobird.co.uk KEHA3 www.keha3.ee Maricer www.maricer.com Microcustom International Ltd www.microcustom.co.uk M-Tech Marine Technologies www.m-tech.com.au New VMR Srl www.vmrsrl.com Plus Marine Srl www.plusmarine.com RMCS www.rmcs.co.uk Rolec Services Ltd www.rolecserv.com Ruban Bleu www.rubanbleu.com

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

22 BOATYARD OPERATIONS

LEADERS IN MARINE TECHNOLOGY WORLD-WIDE DISTRIBUTION & MANUFACTURING

P R O D U CTS & SERVICES Marina Pedestals

Pumping Solutions

Parts & Accessories

Park Powerhead Pedestals

Emergency Equipment

Sales & Tech Advice

GIVE US A CALL ON +61 7 5580 3041

+61 7 5580 3041 | sales@m-tech.com.au | Unit 1/71 Shipper Drive, Coomera, QLD 4209 W W W. M -T E C H .C O M . AU

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT 23

Co-ordinating the service department

By Dan Natchez*

Two sailing boats supported on chocks for repair.

“

W

hat do you mean my boat is not ready? … but you promised!”

That is among the worst calls a marina can receive and, truth be told, it happens all too often. At this point the customer doesn’t want to know why the boat isn’t ready. It isn’t relevant to them whose fault it may be and they are no longer caring about the various reasons the work may have taken longer. They just want their boat!

The marina may have legitimate reasons for the delay – the technicians were sick, the subcontractor did not perform on time, the parts that came were the wrong parts and had to be reordered, the work became more extensive than was originally thought and the list goes on.

Then, of course, there are times when things just drop through the floorboards.

So how do you help prevent the above scenario? In most cases, it comes down to better co-ordination and conversation. Simple but true!

Marinas are in the hospitality business and marinas provide service. We have chosen to focus on the actual service department, but the same types of issues apply to the entire marina, whether or not

It is no secret that the boating public’s demographics are changing, with boaters being more demanding and less understanding. After all, most customers think that their problem, even if something relatively minor, is the most significant of all and you should just drop everything to solve it! repair service is part of the facility.

It is no secret that the boating public’s demographics are changing, with boaters being more demanding and less understanding. After all, most customers think that their problem, even if something relatively minor, is the most significant of all and you should just drop everything to solve it!

This translates to those in the marina industry needing to be much more sensitive and responsive to customer perceptions and expectations.

Co-ordination of the service department is of paramount importance and it starts with the

first contact with the customer and continues through the payment of the bills and return of the boat to the customer. The larger the organisation is, the more that coordination is needed.

The first point of contact with a customer for service should be directed to the service manager to have a candid discussion of the service desired. If the service department is backed up, this should be communicated to the customer. One of the common service problems is that the customer’s issue may not be fully communicated to the service manager, may not cover the full extent of the issue or may be undefined. Starting off on the right foot can make a big difference.

On many occasions, a customer will come to the marina and the service manager or lead mechanic is not readily available, and the front office takes down the information. Unfortunately, we know of many instances where the translation of the issues was either not as descriptive as that from the customer or was misinterpreted or left out relevant information, which may have been interpreted as not significant.

An important suggestion is that

the service manager and/or the mechanic, who is or will be working on the project talk directly to the customer. You might be surprised at the little details that an interaction can bring out that can be very meaningful in identifying the problem and finding a solution.

For example, I happen to know of a customer who brought in a high-performance boat and talked with the service manager with a detailed description of the issue and a mindset of what had to be undertaken and how long it should take. The service manager took detailed notes and suggested to the customer that the description provided was very helpful, but also might point to other issues.

The customer thought it was a carburetor problem. The service manager said he would have a mechanic take a quick look at the boat and see if he could quickly provide a preliminary diagnosis.

That afternoon the mechanic reported to the service manager, who quickly called the client and relayed that the problem most likely was not the carburetor, but might be more extensive and provided a timeframe for a more detailed hands-on determination. It turned out there was water leaking into

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

24 NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT at least two of the cylinder valves and, due to age, it would not be cost-effective to attempt a rebuild of the engine. A replacement engine, used or new, was suggested.

The customer was given both a timeframe and cost ‘guestimate’ range, but was told that until the engine was removed, it was unclear if the existing attachments, parts or other fittings could be used or would have to be ‘massaged’.

This, of course, was quite a pile of bad news, but open lines of communication and the respectful way the client was treated made a huge difference in how the diagnosis was received.

We also recommend setting up a sort of triage process when the boat comes in. Instead of just letting the boat sit there until its service turn comes up, have a mechanic take a quick look at the boat issues right away and do a quick diagnosis of the problem, which can allow ordering of parts and/or materials in advance of working on the boat, thereby having the potential to greatly speed up the process. Where this step has been implemented, it has had a significant benefit to the overall turnaround times. As part of this process one will also gain a better idea right from the start as to what the likely amount of work will be required for fitting the boat into the schedule, as well as giving a preliminary estimate to the

Workshop in a marina’s service department. customer of when they might have their boat returned.

Getting a jump on known reoccurring replacement parts ordering may be of even greater importance for many marinas given the current supply chain crisis, which has created some major new workflow problems. As in so many other industries, most marinas in more recent times have tended to carry limited parts inventories, relying on the fact that they can largely be ordered when needed.

Technicians at work on a Striker 29 sport fishing boat.

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

We are, at the moment, increasingly hearing of marinas greatly increasing their inventories of those parts that have a high probability of being needed during the upcoming service/boating season. Where many marina parts inventories were recently being kept around 10% to 20% of a six months’ to year’s supply, we’ve heard of some facilities increasing that percentage to 40% to 80%. As a consequence, that type of stockpiling may create an even greater supply crisis (who

can forget the toilet paper crisis at the onset of the pandemic!), but that impulse can be hard to resist when you are trying to ensure that you will be able to keep your customers happy.

Another aspect of the modern service department where coordination has become of even greater importance relates to the fact that as boats have become more complicated, the types of service needed have turned into more than just tuning up an engine and painting the boat’s hull.

Depending on the type of boat, there can be numerous experts that may be required, especially with respect to the unending electronic components. Outside contractors are one approach to be able to efficiently fill required expertise.

That also means co-ordinating their aspect(s) of the project. It also seems everyone’s schedules and availabilities these days are an increasingly moving target. This can have a significant adverse impact on the timeline for completing the customer’s desired work. On time and on budget are harder and harder to achieve. This adds to the need to continue to update the customer as to revisions to the timeline. When things go wrong – and unfortunately they do – let the customer know immediately. Customers make their

NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT 25 plans based upon when they believe the boat will be returned to them.

Not keeping the customer abreast of issues, even when not definitely known, can end up compounding the issue and, more importantly, overly affecting the customer’s view of the marina.

I’m aware of another situation where a customer had been traveling on business and, when he got back, stopped by the boatyard fully expecting his boat to be back in the water as it was supposed to be finished over a week before.

It was very early in the morning and most of the staff had not yet arrived. A relatively new and younger employee was there and the customer asked where his boat was. The employee pointed to one of the work sheds, told him that everything was still apart and that it would be weeks before the boat was ready. The customer flipped out as he had arranged a major business outing that coming weekend based upon his thinking that the work would be finished. Needless to say

relations deteriorated dramatically.

No-one in the marina had bothered to contact the customer regarding the delays.

Keeping the customer informed by the service manager or mechanic as the repair proceeds really has proven to be extremely helpful in managing customer expectations.

There is also a potential for another silver lining in the service department. As the boat is being serviced, which would take a couple of days or more, call the customer and advise that the work is proceeding and offer to have them come down at a time of their convenience, including on an evening and weekend. You would be surprised at additional number of issues the customer might start to talk about that needed fixing – I call it the ‘mindswell’. As long as the boat is here you might as well fix … and … and that. The work order expands and the customer is appreciative of the personal service and getting other things fixed that were bothersome.

As I mentioned before, coordination and communication extends to all facets of the marina industry. I know of a group of friends that loved to sail and decided to charter a 50 ft sailing boat in the Caribbean for the Winter holidays from a reputable company. While the organiser for the trip kept in touch with the charter company every couple of weeks and was assured that everything was in order, when they arrived they learned that the boat was not available as it had been held up at another port. A substitute boat was quickly arranged and it seemed the crisis had been solved, but on the way out of the harbour the engine overheated and the boat had to be towed back in. It turned out the boat was in for repairs and should never have been sent out to sea in the condition it was in.

Not only did relations turn ugly, but the incident was made known throughout the charter industry and with innumerable prospective charterers. That charter company

never really recovered.

The adage ‘It’s not what you do, but how you do it’ comes to mind, though I think it needs a bit of a rewrite – it’s BOTH what you do AND how you do it that matters!

Wish I could say the boatyard called and my boat was ready to be picked up, but that new part was on backorder for weeks. However, the marina was able to locate one on the other side of the country, with a two-day delay with air freight rather than weeks by other means – kudos for the extra effort by the marina and their continued updates.

*Dan Natchez is President of Daniel S. Natchez and Associates Inc, a leading international environmental waterfront design consulting company specialising in the design of marinas and marina resorts throughout the world. Your comments and enquiries are invited on Tel: +1 914 698 5678, by Fax: +1 914 698 7321, by E-mail: dan.n@ dsnainc.com or on his Website: www.dsnainc.com

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

26 SHOWTIME

Inspiring program for Marinas22

T

he program for the Marinas22 International Conference and Trade Exhibition at the newly refurbished JW Marriott Gold Coast from 23-24 May, 2022, has been conveniently timed to follow the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. A great line up of speakers will deliver relevant, timely and thought-provoking content designed to inspire delegates to capitalise on the strength of the industry.

The 24 conference sessions incorporate plenary addresses,

which tackle broader industry issues, workshops that focus on specific operational matters and sessions that will explore and showcase the opportunities and innovations of

Face-to-face at METSTRADE 2021

This year saw the world’s largest trade exhibition of marine equipment, materials and systems reinforce its pivotal role as the beating heart of the industry by bringing to the RAI in Amsterdam 11,936 industry professionals for effective meetings, research and networking.

The show simultaneously served its wider audience by launching the METSTRADE Connect virtual platform and METSTRADE TV channel.

The show assembled a total of 1,105 exhibitors from 44 countries covering every facet of marine equipment. This was just 13% down on the originallyexpected exhibitor total, following the choice of some businesses to withdraw in the immediate days before the doors opened due to concerns about the Covid-19 pandemic.

Three busy days of METSTRADE saw 14,065 visits registered by 8,459 unique visitors spanning 63 nationalities, accompanied by 3,477 exhibitor personnel.

Of particular importance to the future of the industry, nearly onequarter of all visiting professionals were in the 18-35 age bracket. Their presence was once again encouraged and supported through METSTRADE’s unique Young Professionals Club, with its dedicated lounge, industry ‘meet and greet’ sessions and show tours.

METSTRADE’s Covid-19 precautionary measures included compulsory vaccination or test checks in a dedicated entry marquee, wide airy corridors on the show floor, controlled refreshment areas and encouragement to wear masks.

Attendees welcomed the measures as a pragmatic approach for the essential resumption of face-to-face business research, networking and sales pipeline generation. There was a common expression of relief and pleasure to be back.

The one-off show layout spanning eight halls this year encouraged many visitors to explore companies they had not spoken with before.

Exhibitors consistently reported good business enquiries from new contacts, combined with a celebratory atmosphere as people met up with those they had not seen for a long time.

Speaking after the show closed, Niels Klarenbeek, Maritime Director of METSTRADE, reflected: “Best of all was to see the thrill that was evident on the faces of exhibitors and visitors, thanks to the facility of being able to meet each other in person again”.

In 2022, METSTRADE will take place at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre from 15-17 November.

METSTRADE metstrade@rai.nl www.metstrade.com

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

the future. The full program can be accessed by visiting the website given below.

The event incorporates plenty of time to network. In addition to the

extended breaks where delegates can meet with the exhibitors, three social events will provide time for the marina industry to reunite old friendships, make new connections and celebrate its growing success.

Suzanne Davies, CEO of the Marina Industries Association, commented: “The theme for Marinas22 is ‘Inspiring Business Success’ and I believe that this is exactly what this program will deliver”.

Marinas22 conference@marinas22.com www.marinas22.com

Thailand postpones show for a year On 2 December, 2021, following consultation with industry stakeholders, exhibitors and sponsors, the organiser of the Thailand International Boat Show has announced that the planned 2022 event will be postponed for a year. The new dates for the show to be held at Royal Phuket Marina are 12-15 January, 2023.

“Having discussed with our partners, exhibitors and industry stakeholders, we have taken the decision in the best interests of all to postpone the show until January, 2023,” explained David Hayes, CEO of JAND Events.

“It’s clear from the positive feedback we have had to date that there is an appetite for our show concept. However, due to a combination of factors, we feel hosting it in 2023 will ensure a better return of investment for our sponsors, partners and exhibitors, and will ensure a more visitorfriendly show.

“JAND Events is known for delivering high-quality events and that is our goal for the Thailand International Boat Show – to create an event the likes of which Phuket has never seen before.

While Phuket is open to the world and Thailand is leading the way in reopening its borders to

international travellers, people remain cautious about travel and large gatherings, especially with the concern of a new coronavirus variant appearing.”

As there is another new boat show scheduled to take place in March, 2022, at Ocean Marina in Pattaya, the organiser of the Thailand International Boat Show has set its new dates to avoid any clash and to support the industry across Thailand and throughout the region.

“The support we have received has been extremely positive and our plans for 2022 will be carried over to 2023. We are also in discussions with a number of global brands that are aligned with our vision for a boat show in Phuket and who are interested in sponsoring the Thailand International Boat Show in 2023 and beyond. Working with these brands will support our efforts to put Phuket and Thailand’s marine tourism front of mind amongst global travellers,” added Hayes.

Thailand International Boat Show info@thailand internationalboatshow.com www.thailandinternational boatshow.com

27 BOOK Y OUR STAND AT EAR LY BIRD R ATES BEFOR E 1 MA Y!

YOU’RE INVITED!

HOMEPORT OF THE LEISURE MARINE COMMUNITIES

15 - 16 - 17 NOVEMBER 2022 RAI AMSTERDAM

The METSTRADE Show is the happening meeting place in Amsterdam where the international leisure marine community gathers. In a hospitable and safe environment, we make you feel at home to meet and mingle with the entire industry. Feel connected and charge yourself to optimise your business.

METSTRADE FEATURES

ORGANISED BY

POWERED BY

MEMBER OF

OFFICIAL METSTRADE MAGAZINE

OFFICIAL SYP MAGAZINE

OFFICIAL MYP MAGAZINE

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

28

21JUNE Southampton 232022 United Kingdom TO

Seawork is open for business – all year Reserve now for 2022. Make the most of marketing & PR support from Seawork and our leading commercial marine magazines, in print, online, eNews and via social media.

Europe’s leading commercial marine and workboat exhibition.

Show your latest innovations in vessels, equipment and services to over 7,700 maritime professionals.

12,000m2 of exhibition halls featuring 600 exhibitors.

Over 70 vessels and floating plant.

European Commercial Marine Awards (ECMAs) and Innovations Showcase.

Co-located with:

Also returning in 2022

Speed@Seawork For more information visit: seawork.com contact: +44 1329 825 335 or email: info@seawork.com MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021 #Seawork2022

Media partners:

BOATINGBUSINESS BOATING BUSINESS & MARINE TRADE NEWS

Supported by:

SHOWTIME 29

Blue Innovation Dock to launch at boot Düsseldorf

A

new stage at boot Düsseldorf from 2230 January has been announced by the show organiser and the European Boating Industry (EBI). Blue Innovation Dock (BID) will bring together companies, visionaries, investors and policymakers to make the industry fit for the future and promote sustainability and innovation through boot Düsseldorf’s unique platform. This exceptional forum, which will take place throughout the show, will discuss the steps towards sustainable development of the industry.

The UN World Tourism Organization has also announced its participation at BID, with a high-level political panel on the development of sustainable coastal and maritime tourism. This will cover the expansion of new and existing maritime and inland waterway tourism destinations, as well as governmental support for marinas and other boating infrastructure.

The BID is actively supported by EBI and will set an example for sustainability for the first time at the Fair. With the forum, boot and EBI want to focus on new, futureoriented approaches in a special setting and encourage politics

and industry to act and develop impulses. There will be networking opportunities in a dedicated BID B2B Lounge at the stage in Hall 9. Topics range from new propulsion systems to investment opportunities and sustainable boating tourism, as well as the future development of marina infrastructure.

In the past, boot Düsseldorf launched the ‘ocean tribute’ award, together with the Monegasque Prince Albert II Foundation and the German Marine Foundation, to promote sustainable and visionary projects at the ‘love your ocean’ stand in Hall 11 at the Fair. It is thus an important focus of innovation in the water sports industry and is continuing this tradition with the BID. In addition to the successful partnership between EBI and boot Düsseldorf for the annual ‘International Breakfast Meeting’, this co-operation will now be extended to address the most important challenges facing the industry and to find solutions. EBI will thus present the drivers of a sustainable maritime industry at boot Düsseldorf 2022, design the BID program and will be able to attract exciting speakers and panel participants.

Diary of events Please check websites for up-to-date information before booking hotels or confirming travel plans.

Petros Michelidakis, Project Director of boot Düsseldorf, stated: “I am very pleased that we will be taking another step towards sustainability with boot. With the Blue Innovation Dock we will offer companies, international associations and global organisations a public platform where they will present innovations, the latest propulsion technology or sustainable materials for boat building. In order to be able to present the topic to a broad public beyond the Fair, the highlights from the BID will be streamed and can be followed live on boot.com. In this way, we are giving the idea of sustainability the space it deserves beyond the boating sector”.

Philip Easthill, Secretary-General of the EBI, confirmed: “Our industry is aware of the need to move towards sustainability. The Blue Innovation Dock is an opportunity to showcase this shift, discover the latest innovations and collaborate within our sector and beyond.

We are very excited to launch this project with our partner boot Düsseldorf and take a big step towards sustainability”. boot Düsseldorf info@messe-duesseldorf.de www.boot.de

boot Düsseldorf Düsseldorf, Germany 22-30 January, 2022 www.boot.de

Miami Boat Show Miami, USA 16-20 February, 2022 www.miamiboatshow.com

Auckland Boat Show Auckland, New Zealand 17-20 March, 2022 www.auckland-boatshow.com

China (Shanghai) Int’l Boat Show Shanghai, China 30 March-1 April, 2022 www.boatshowchina.com

Palma Int’l Boat Show Palma de Mallorca, Spain 28 April-1 May, 2022 www.palmainternationalboatshow.com

Sanctuary Cove Int’l Boat Show Gold Coast, Australia 19-22 May, 2022 www.sanctuarycoveboatshow. com.au

Marinas22 Gold Coast, Australia 23-24 May, 2022 www.marinas22.com

Seawork Southampton, England 21-23 June, 2022 www.seawork.com

Sydney Int’l Boat Show Sydney, Australia 28 July-1 August, 2022 www.sydneyboatshow.com.au

Southampton Int’l Boat Show Southampton, England 16-25 September, 2022 www.southamptonboatshow.com

Index to Advertisers Daniel S. Natchez and Associates Inc

25

Naval Tecno Sud Srl

13

DeckSafe Solutions Ltd

4

RMCS

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems Ltd

11

Seawork International

28

LeeSan

19

SF Marina

IFC

Marine Travelift Inc

OBC

3

Walcon Marine Ltd

5

METSTRADE

27

Water Witch Workboats

8

M-TECH Marine Technologies

22

Wickens Engineering Ltd

15

Salone Nautico Genoa, Italy 22-27 September, 2022 www.salonenautico.com

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021

30

THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE LINEUP OF BOAT HANDLING EQUIPMENT

Marine Travelift has been a leader in the boat handling industry for over 65 years and is recognized for a tradition of excellence on a global scale. We design and manufacture mobile boat hoists, marine forklifts, self-propelled transporters and other related marine lifting products. There are currently more than 4,500 units in service worldwide backed by our extensive global dealer and service network.

To learn more about how investing in a customized Marine Travelift machine can improve efficiency at your marina, contact our sales team at: +1(920)743-6202 | sales@marinetravelift.com MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2021 www.marinetravelift.com | sales@marinetravelift.com | +1(920)743-6202 |