Newsletter August 2021

From the Captain's Chair: Keep Moving with Forward-Thinking

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

With summer winding down and Labor Day just around the corner, we’re turning our full attention to the biggest event on our calendars – the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. FLIBS has been – and remains - a cornerstone of South Florida’s economy, drawing tens of thousands of visitors from around the world to the Fort Lauderdale area each year.

This year promises to be no different, even as COVID-19 continues to impact travel and various aspects of daily life. We are being proactive to ensure we deliver another safe event this year, relying once again on the services of Informa Markets to provide a secure environment utilizing the new standards like contactless ticketing system and CDC guidelines.
 
Additionally, the Marine Industries Association of South Florida is working with the Department of State to overcome the obstacles related to ongoing U.S. border closures. These closures could impact exhibitors from European and other countries at this year’s show due to travel restrictions. We are lobbying hard for a National Interest Exemption (NIE) that would grant approved exhibitors an exemption to the European travel ban currently in place.
 
Our position in favor of granting the NIEs is logical. FLIBS generates an incredible economic impact to not just South Florida but the global marine industry. With a significant number of vessels being manufactured internationally, potentially restricting that percentage of FLIBS exhibitors from attending inflicts economic harm not just on our industry but the hotels, restaurants, and local businesses that benefit from activity generated by an event of international recognition such as FLIBS.
 
With the backend of Covid elusive, many global leaders are starting to shift their attitudes towards managing the situation. Herd immunity has proven to be a longer road. Countries are rapidly adopting a “we must live with this” attitude, encouraging their citizens to get vaccinated and adapting in other ways to live with these new circumstances.
 
Our industry is adaptive and responsive. The economic harm that continued shutdowns and border closures have are known, questionable and not solution driven. We must work together to identify ways to live with and adapt to COVID-19. It is up to every one of us on an individual level to do our part, and this includes getting vaccinated. By doing so can we lead by example and have a seat at the table of solutions.
 
Ocean Exchange 2021
 
One such event that highlights the importance of forward-thinking initiatives is Ocean Exchange. This annual, marine-technology and solutions focused event is held each year in Fort Lauderdale and is coming up just before FLIBS on October 24-26 at NSU Art Museum. Reflecting the importance of South Florida as the Marine Research Hub, Ocean Exchange is relocating to our community from Savannah, GA in 2021. Ocean Exchange will operate from South Florida.
 
This year there were more than 140 applications to fill the 12 competition spots. Local entrepreneur John Loos was one of those applicants. Loos, a Fort Lauderdale native who is Vice President of Clean Waterways, built a prototype barge to clean hazardous water conditions. The concept uses filtration technology, similar to that of home aquariums, in large protein skimmer devices to extract pollutants from the water.
 
The company debuted this technology in a two-week pilot program on the Himmarshee Canal. There they deployed three of the skimmers to extract blue-green algae, Cyanobacteria, fecal matter, and more from the extremely polluted waterway. It is the goal that these skimmers can successfully be deployed to clean up lakes, waterways, ports, etc. in the near future.
 
Loos is one of the first South Florida business owners to participate in the competition. If his project wins, he will join the likes of Nicholas Flanders, whose company Opus 12 (now Twelve), won the 2019 Neptune Award and received $100,000. Twelve offers technology that converts carbon dioxide emissions into fuel. Since their win, they have received more than $75 million in first-round investor funding and have established working relationships with companies such as Mercedes, Tide, and special interest from U.S. military branches.
 
We wish John and his team the best of luck at this year’s Ocean Exchange competition.

 
Phil Purcell

CEO & President

Advocacy Report

With FLIBS just around the corner, MIASF and Informa Markets are working to have the show recognized as eligible for the National Interest Exemption (NIE). This exemption will permit FLIBS’ global exhibitors to request permission to travel for the show. Congressman Ted Deutch, once again, championed the industry’s cause by reaching out to the Secretary of State Anthony Blinken to emphasize the importance of our international exhibitor’s participation in FLIBS. Individual letters of invitation are available to exhibitors on request to help facilitate the application process.
 
The industry working group met with USCG this month for final comments on the draft before it goes to DC for final review. The working group will now be looking to EPA to address the tier 3 compliance issue that may present a challenge to an older vessel wishing to convert to US flag.
 
Every June and July we see a rotation of personnel in the USCG, this year was no different and thanks to the generosity of Water Taxi we were able to take the some of the USCG officers on an educational tour of the New River to learn about the logistics of navigating to the shipyards and the economic importance of the marine industry. As always, the trip was a success, and we have representatives in Sector Miami with a good understanding of our businesses. They have committed to participate with the CBP at the Captain and Crew Forum on Saturday at FLIBS.
 
The visit from USCG also brought exciting news. The Captain of the Port, Captain Joanne Burdian is now Rear Admiral Select. Her leadership and knowledge of the issues unique to our yachting community have been a benefit to the marine industry during her time in Miami and promise to stay with her when she leaves us in 2022 for her next assignment.
 
FDOT’s Broward Commuter Rail PD&E Study kicked off the last week of August. Of particular interest to the marine community are the four options to address passenger trains crossing the New River without impeding navigation to the businesses that contribute $9.7 billion to the local economy annually. The low bridge option (21’ or 25’) does not achieve results at the New River, nor does it address vehicle and train traffic both running at grade on Broward Blvd. The preferred option needs to provide satisfactory solutions for both issues of concern. The proposed station locations are also revealed. Visit www.browardcommuterrailstudy.com for more information.
 
MIASF met with Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) and a representative from John Deere to learn more about the Right to Repair bill. In Florida, the bill, which failed to make it to the floor last year, was specific to farm equipment. It is anticipated to be refiled in this coming session. Anyone with concerns about this bill are asked to contact patience@miasf.org to discuss so that we may effectively represent our businesses should the issue gain momentum this session.

Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Report

Summer may be ending the new school year is beginning, but the apprentices in the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program have been continuing to progress through the program just the same. The apprentices continue to impress with their on-the-job training tasks they are involved at their respective marine employers.
The class of 2021 is continuing their work in the carpentry module with the 20-year woodworking teacher from Atlantic Technical College. Thus far, the apprentices have been introduced and trained on various floor equipment including table saws, drill presses, belt sanders, and routers. Overall, the goal of the carpentry module is to familiarize the apprentices with marine wood types, hardware, hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring.
 
The class of 2022 is now working on the running gear and machining portion of the course. This module covers most underwater systems including, but not limited to shafts, shaft seals, struts, bearings, rudders, thrusters, stabilizers, props, and more. Rolly Marine is sponsoring an upcoming on-site lesson where the students will learn first-hand the steps involved with disassembling, aligning, and installing a drive shaft. We thank Rolly Marine and all of our other participating employers who have conducted on-site visits as they only enhance the learning and experience for the apprentices in the program.
 
Recruitment to build the class of 2023 has officially begun. Classes for this group of apprentices begins in January 2022 and is limited to 25 students. Space is filling up, so if you would like to enroll one of your current or future employees in the program, please contact Instructor Jon Lowell. Currently, there is no additional cost to the employer to put an employee through the program, with the exception of the employees’ wages. However, CareerSource Broward has a program available for employers to obtain wage reimbursement of up 75% of wages over 6 months for qualifying apprentices in the program.  To become a participating employer in the program, enroll one of your apprentices, or learn more, contact Jon Lowell via email at jonathananthony.lowell@browardschools.com or call 954-524-2733. Let’s continue to build the marine industry workforce together.

Business Highlight: Latham Marine

This month’s member spotlight shines on Latham Marine – an industry innovator, leader, and manufacturer of world-class marine hardware, hydraulic steering, and tie bar systems. Favored by top racing teams around the world, you’ll find Latham parts in some of the fastest, most high-performance boats on the planet.
 
Bob Latham is the creator of the first marine hydraulic steering system, which he designed and tested on the powerboat racing circuit, one of the most punishing marine environments anywhere. To honor his contributions to the boating industry, Bob was nominated for and won the 24th annual Alan J. Freedman Memorial Leadership Award from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) at the International Boatbuilders Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) in 2007. He hasn’t stopped innovating since.
 
He and his wife Kathy have built their business over 35 years, focusing on delivering superior-quality parts to professional racers, law enforcement, emergency services, the military, and recreational boaters who demand the best for their boats. Latham maintains an inventory of over 10,000 parts and 7,000 components – all engineered and built in the USA.
 
You can visit their headquarters at 280 S.W. 32nd Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315, check out their website at www.lathammarine.com, or call them at (800) 422-7267 and (954) 462-3055.

Faces in the Industry: Bob Denison

Tell us where you are from, what brought you to Florida, and how long you’ve lived here.
I was born and raised in Fort Lauderdale and have decided to never leave. I didn’t realize how sad this sounded until I read it a second time. My formative years were spent hanging around Broward and Denison Marine acting like I knew how to build boats. It wasn’t until I was the age of 9 my dad informed me I wasn’t actually in charge of anything. I spent the rest of the summer sweeping up piles of aluminum shavings.
 
 
Where do you work, what is your job title, and what does your job entail?
I now work at Denison Yachting. We help clients buy, sell and charter yachts. We also have a yacht management and crew division. We have 22 offices in the U.S. and I am lucky to have about 150 of the very best people in the industry supporting us. With the Title of President, I sometimes feel like I’m in charge, but my dad and 2 uncles will still ask me to sweep something up for them. Of course, I always say yes.
 
 
How did you initially become interested in the marine industry?
Sort of being born into the marine industry, I’ve always had an interest. My involvement on a daily basis is always morphing. If I’m honest with myself, I’m in the industry as a result of a wicked cocktail of passion, family obligation and fiscal opportunity. This cocktail has led me to some crazy people and places. I’m very sincerely grateful for all of it.
 
 
What is your favorite or most valuable benefit of membership in MIASF?
The MIASF was the very first Association I ever joined. My dad told me it was the place to network, share ideas and be a part of something bigger than our company, and much bigger than myself. He was right.
 
 
Describe any other community organizations or events with which you are involved?
I’m also very involved with YPO Miami and the International Yacht Brokers Association.
 
 
Tell us about your hobbies and the kinds of things you do for fun.
The fun things I do these days is centered around trying to impress my 4 kids and make them laugh to the point of throwing-up. This usually involves pranking mom, cannonballs in the pool and terrorizing our neighborhood on our very old blue golf cart.

CDTC Back-2-School Supply Drive

The past few weeks, MIASF partnered with the Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center to support their Back-to-School Drive collecting school supplies. Their drive benefitted hundreds of kids with special needs beginning school to help them get their school year off to a good start. Our members came through in a BIG way – donating supplies, backpacks, gift cards, and more to support this initiative. When we delivered the supplies to the CDTC, they were overwhelmed with the amount we all collected and extremely grateful to be able to distribute the supplies to all of the kids in need. We would like to thank all of our members who donated such as AccuDock, Advanced Mechanical Enterprises, General Fabrics, Harbour Towne Marina, AERÉ Marine Group and so many more! And we would like to give a special shoutout to the Port Everglades Association for joining us in the supply drive and collecting on behalf of their members to donate to the cause.

Join the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program

The Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program is currently accepting employers to enroll their employees in the upcoming class set to begin in January 2022. There is no cost to the employer to enroll someone from their business in the program and the apprentice can be a current employee or a new hire. The commitment to joining the program is 2 years with the apprentice working full-time with the employer and doing on-the-job training, while attending class once a week in the evening at Atlantic Technical College for classroom instruction. At the end of the program, apprentices will earn a certificate and have a wealth of knowledge in various aspects of a shipyard including carpentry, safety, welding, rigging, heavy lifting, and more! Space in the class is limited so if you’re interested in reserving a spot or learning more, reach out to Jonathan Lowell via email at jonathananthonylowell@browardschools.com or call 954-524-2733.

MIASF Member Special Tickets for FLIBS

Tickets to the 62nd Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show are officially on sale. As a benefit to being members of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, the Boat Show Committee is pleased to offer specially priced Guest Tickets.
 
“Prime Time Preview” takes place on opening day of the show, October 27th, and offers a head start to marine industry professionals and patrons on the General Admission Crowds. The Prime-Time Preview ticket is available to MIASF members for $35.00 and is valid for any one day of the show. The General Public price is $57.00.
MIASF Members who would like to purchase General Admission Tickets can do so for $23.00 per ticket compared to $37.00 for the general public. General Admission Tickets are valid for any one day between Thursday, October 28th and Sunday, October 31st.
 
If you are interested in purchasing any of the above tickets, please email Tiffany Fascher at Tiffany.fascher@informa.com or Terri Kennedy at Teresa.kennedy@informa.com.
 
If you are interested in purchasing a Marine Trade Credential for $250.00, please click here.
 
Show Hours:
“Prime Time Preview”:

– October 27th – 12 Noon – 7:00 pm

General Admission:

Thursday, October 28th – Saturday, October 30th – 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Sunday, October 31st – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Lori Wheeler Named to Tower Forum Executive Committee

MIASF is proud to announce that its Vice President, Lori Wheeler, has been nominated to serve on the Executive Committee of the Tower Forum in Broward County. Established in 1976, the Tower Forum consists of business executives and professionals who are active in the community. The members meet on a regular basis to host thought-provoking discussions on timely and critical topics to encourage positive change in South Florida.

Telly Award Recipient

Last year, the MIASF Team got creative to find solutions and adaptations to our signature events to host them in a way that kept the health and safety of everyone involved as a top priority. Among some of the creative ideas implemented was the use of PSA videos to inform volunteers, attendees, etc. of the changes to be expected. We are so proud to announce that our PSA video announcing the changes for the 44th Annual Broward County Waterway Cleanup won a Telly Award in the Nonprofit category. The Telly Awards was founded in 1979 and annually showcases the best work created within television and video across all platforms. Submissions include more than 12,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents. This is the second Telly Award that MIASF has won in as many years it has entered.

Anchor Meeting Presentations

Each month, the MIASF Anchor Members meet to discuss business as it pertains to our industry and community. Additionally, each month features a guest speaker to present on a relevant topic that is important for our key players to learn and know about. This past month, Anchor Members has the opportunity to hear from two presenters. Ina Lee, President of TravelHost, first presented on current trends and statistics in the hospitality industry. Additionally, she teased the upcoming October issue of TravelHost of Greater Fort Lauderdale which includes a feature about the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. This presentation segued nicely into our other guest speaker, Maria Jannace, President of Maxim Creative Group and Founder of the New York City Concours and Fort Lauderdale Concours. The Fort Lauderdale Concours celebrates the automobile in an exclusively inclusive event for automobile enthusiast and collectors to enjoy a rooftop art gallery of classic cars, collector sneakers, live music, art, fashion, and more. This event is new to Fort Lauderdale this year and will take place in collaboration with the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show on October 29th from 5 pm – 10 pm at the Las Olas Parking Garage. You can purchase your tickets to the event here. And we are pleased to announce there is a special opportunity for attendees to purchase a Friday Winward VIP Ticket and receive a discount for their Concours ticket that night.

Florida Festivals & Events Association Conference

Megan Piggott, Director of Marketing & Workforce Development attended the 27th Annual Florida Festivals & Events Association Conference in Orlando, Florida. Over the three days, the conference was full of breakout sessions, discussion groups, speakers sharing their knowledge of the event industry and beyond. Megan enjoyed attending the conference to network with other professionals, learn about the latest trends, and collaborate and share ideas with her peers. Among one of the highlights was attending FFEA’s SunSational awards luncheon. At the luncheon, MIASF won third place in one of the Multimedia categories for the 44th Annual Broward County Waterway Cleanup PSA Video.

7th Annual SFBJ Special Marine Section and Book of Lists

The Marine Industries Association of South Florida has once again partnered with the South Florida Business Journal to release the 7th Annual Special Marine Section and Book of Lists on October 15th. The SFBJ Lists are a critical component of our community to create a detailed picture of the corporate, professional, and industrial segments in South Florida. Subscribers include CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, and investors. Together, we can help prove that the marine industry is not just ‘an’ industry, but ‘the’ industry in South Florida. By now you should have already been contact by the South Florida Business Journal to take the survey to help make list. TAKE THE SURVEY. It’s easy. It’s important. It’s powerful. While planning ahead for where your company will be in the coming years, use all the tools available, including this Book of Lists to achieve your vision. If you haven’t received the survey, contact Eman Elshahawy at eelshahawy@bizjournals.com.
 
Want to show your support for our industry in a more dynamic way? Consider placing an ad in the Special Marine Section. For more information and to request special advertising and sponsorship rates, contact Yasmine Gahed at ygahed@bizjournals.com.

U.S. Coast Guard Waterway Tour

This month, MIASF welcomed new members, and existing members, of the U.S. Coast Guard to a waterway tour of the New River. Each year, this tour is important to showcase all our marine businesses operating along the river, especially our shipyards. Seeing firsthand many of these businesses gives everyone on the tour a chance to see the magnitude of our industry and the large impact our industry has on the local economy. Additionally, this waterway tour allows attendees to better understand how infrastructure, both present operations and future development, is critical to the continued growth of our industry. We continue to thank Bill Walker and Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale for taking us on this tour aboard one of their vessels.

Member News: Port 32 Marinas

Port 32 Marinas has announced the recapitalization of the company led by New York-based Fireside Investments.
 
Key members of management and several institutional investors, including funds affiliated with D1 Capital Partners and Makena Capital Management, also participated.
 
Following the recapitalization, Port 32 will own and operate four Sunshine State marinas located in Palm Beach Gardens, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa and Tierra Verde.
 
Upon completion of the redevelopment underway in Fort Lauderdale and its Palm Beach Gardens redevelopment, the company will own and operate approximately 2,270 dry and wet slips and more than 115,000 square feet of commercial tenant space across its initial portfolio.

“This transaction will provide us with capital to accelerate our program of acquiring and developing the highest quality marinas in our target markets, will allow us to continue to invest in our operating platform to support our commitment to provide our customers with a high level of service quality, and will strengthen our competitive positioning in the sector," Port 32 founder and CEO Joe H. Miller, IV, said in a statement.

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Port 32 Marinas acquired three Florida marinas — in Naples, Marco Island and Cape Coral — from Walker Marine Group, the company said in a statement. They are the company’s first acquisitions since its announced recapitalization, backed by Fireside Investments.
 
The three marinas comprise around 1,015 slips, as well as sales and service by long-term tenant OneWater Marine. With its Florida investments in Palm Beach Gardens, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa and Tierra Verde — and three marinas it manages in Charleston, S.C. — Port 32 now has more than 4,100 dry and wet slips, and approximately 140,000 square feet of commercial tenant space.
 
“We are delighted to welcome the Walker marinas, their employees and customer base to Port 32,” CEO Joe H. Miller IV said in the statement. “These are high-quality assets which fit tremendously well with our strategy of acquiring best-in-class facilities in each of our target markets.”

Member News: National Marine Trades Council

The National Marine Trades Council (NMTC) announced the recent appointment of Kitty McGowan as Chair and Lori Wheeler as Vice-Chair of the organization. 
 
Kitty McGowan, President of the U.S. Superyacht Association and industry veteran of more than 30 years, views her role as chair of the NMTC as a great way to advocate for the marine trades at the local, state, national and international levels.
 
“I am grateful for this opportunity to take a leadership role and build upon the important work the NMTC and our board predecessors have done over the past 40 years,” she notes. “The Council has a long tradition of bringing industry leadership together and fostering strong partnerships and communication across the national boating community and I’m proud to be able to utilize my diverse experiences to continue to advance our objectives.”
Lori Wheeler is the Vice President of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF). She has been with the association since 2014 and served as Director of Operations prior to her promotion to Vice President in 2020. She is a long-time resident of Broward County, and a strong advocate for the marine industry.

Member News: Horizon Yachts

Since its establishment nearly 35 years ago, Horizon Yachts has continuously invested in its facilities and equipment to maintain and further its position as one of the world’s largest and leading yacht builders. The latest infrastructure investment comes in the form of a brand new 106,745sqft (9,917sqm) production facility constructed on the Horizon grounds in a space formerly used for mold storage. This new space can now accommodate seven yachts up to 120 feet in length and improves production capacity significantly, allowing the group to deliver 20 to 25 new builds per year.

The expansion is the result of a two-year planning process with an overall focus on production efficiency throughout and to this effect includes the re-designation of existing workspaces and an efficient horizontal production queue. The hull production division of Group subsidiary Atech Composites division has also been relocated to the main yard to streamline the manufacturing process of each hull. Now, each critical stage of construction, from hull production to boat assembly and the final testing will be carried out in the same vicinity. In addition to the new facility, which officially began operations in February 2021, construction is currently underway on a materials warehouse and a brand-new office building designed to house the factory management department. The new building is expected to be completed in early 2022.

 

Member News: West Marine

West Marine announced that it chose Eric Kufel as its next chief executive officer. Kufel replaces CEO Ken Seipel effective Aug. 23.
 
Kufel has spent more than two decades in leadership roles. As CEO of Core Power Yoga, he oversaw the company as it transitioned to the country’s largest studio operator. His last role was executive director of Leslie’s, which became the largest omnichannel brand for pool and spa care in the country under his leadership.
 
“West Marine is uniquely positioned to build upon its category-leading position to become the leading tech-enabled platform for boating enthusiasts, providing unmatched product breadth, best-in-class value, expert knowledge, and superior convenience and service,” Kufel said in a statement. “As we look to the future, I couldn't be more energized to lead the company as we work together to capitalize on these opportunities.”
 
Seipel, who was named CEO in December 2018, was tasked with turning the company around as it faced declining sales and an identity crisis. “Ken and the team have done a remarkable job refocusing the company on outfitting, educating, and inspiring all boaters and laying the foundation for a reimagined omnichannel consumer experience,” Kufel said.
 
“I am excited to welcome Eric as our new CEO,” Seipel said. “His depth of experience in consumer-driven businesses and proven ability to accelerate growth, particularly through digital, supply chain and marketing advancements within multichannel retail organizations, make him well-suited to lead West Marine into its next chapter of growth.”
 
Seipel will remain with the company as lead independent director of the board of directors.

Member News: National Marine Manufacturers Association

The National Marine Manufacturers Association announced that it hired Tillie Fowler as senior vice president of government relations and regulatory affairs. Fowler will oversee the association’s advocacy work at the state, federal and international levels.
 
“I am thrilled to welcome Tillie to the NMMA team,” president Frank Hugelmeyer said in a statement. “Her extensive policy and legislative experience across a broad range of issues in both the public and private sectors will no doubt help advance NMMA’s strategic priorities to protect and grow boating and ensure the prosperity of the recreational boating industry.”
 
Most recently, Fowler served as senior vice president of advocacy and government relations for the American Academy of Physician Assistants. Prior to that she was director of legislative affairs for Boeing and represented the commercial aviation side of the business before Congress.
 
Fowler has also worked on Capitol Hill and in the executive branch. She was chief of staff for U.S. Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite (R-Fla.), as well as a senior legislative assistant handling appropriations and transportation and infrastructure committee work for U.S. Rep. Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.).
 
“I'm honored to join the NMMA, the recreational boating industry's premier advocacy organization, and return to my roots in the transportation, manufacturing and environmental sectors,” Fowler said. “Growing up in Florida, I learned how to drive a boat before I could drive a car, and I couldn't be more excited to get to work protecting and growing the recreational boating industry and community.”

Member News: Suntex Marinas

Suntex Marina Investors announced the first acquisition in its new partnership with Centerbridge Capital and Resilient Capital Partners — Faro Blanco Marina in the Florida Keys city of Marathon.
 
“The Suntex team is so excited to add such an iconic destination to our premier network of marina assets,” Bryan Redmond, founder and president of Suntex Marinas, said in a statement. “Faro Blanco fits in perfectly with the type of location and amenities that make the Suntex experience so desirable for our customer base. We are appreciative that owners of the adjacent Faro Blanco Resort, EOS Investors, has entrusted Suntex to take the Faro Blanco Marina to a level of excellence in line with their vision for the entire property.”
 
Located near the Seven Mile Bridge bayside in the lower Florida Keys, the marina provides access to the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico for excellent fishing, diving and pleasure boating.
 
An hour north of Key West and two hours south of Miami, it’s a popular destination for cruising clubs and yacht rendezvous.
 
The marina has 74 slips and accommodates vessels between 35 and 140 feet, with fuel and pump-out services, dockside hookups and a resort-owned restaurant facing the marina. It’s also proximate to amenities in the Keys such as dolphin experiences, private beaches, diving excursions and more. 
 
The contiguous Faro Blanco Resort is pursuing renovations to the hotel and grounds, with an expanded pool area, waterslide, tiki huts and more. Marina guests have full access to the hotel’s outdoor amenities and restaurant.

Member News: Fire Ranger

Effective June 22, 2021, Fire Ranger/Fire Ranger Marine Inc. has joined Summit Fire & Security. The Fire Ranger team, alongside Summit Fire & Security, will continue serving you, your vessels, and your businesses with our proven commitment to safety, excellence, and hard work. The team in Ft. Lauderdale will now have the support and infrastructure to supply all your needs across the entire spectrum of fire protection and life safety categories. This includes fire extinguishers, pre-engineered and engineered suppression systems, special hazard systems, LSA equipment, fire protection planning, fire sprinklers, fire detection & fire alarms.

Upcoming Events

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 3-8 is continuing to host their monthly Boat America – Boating Safety Course. This month, the class will take place on September 18th at the MIASF Office from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. The topics of the class include introduction to boating, boating law, safety equipment, safe operation and navigation, boating emergencies, trailering, and sports and boating and provides the knowledge needed to obtain a boating certificate. The cost of the course is $50 and space in the class is limited. You must register for the class by Thursday, September 16th and can do so clicking here. Check in begins at 8 am and lunch is provided.

 

In recognition of Yom Kippur, September's Member Connect event will be pushed back a week and take place on Wednesday, September 22nd at 5 pm. Stay on the lookout in your email and on social media for more details coming for this networking event!

Past Events

On August 18th we hosted our new monthly networking event, Member Connect. This month’s event took place at the MIASF Office at the Flagship Room and featured networking and a panel discussion with some of our local boatyards. Moderated by Phil Purcell, the panelists included Jim Naugle (Lauderdale Boat Yard), Frank Gernert (Lauderdale Marine Center), and Brent Allsop (RMK Merrill-Stevens). This in-person event provided the opportunity for members to connect over light bites of burritos, flauta, and quesadillas, and drinks while gaining insight into some new projects and happenings at the yards. This month’s event was sponsored by Advanced Mechanical Enterprises, Inc.
 
Mark your calendar for future Member Connect events coming up on September 22nd and October 13th. If you’re interested in sponsoring or hosting, please contact the office at info@miasf.org.

Salty Jobs

The latest Salty Jobs episode will be released soon! In this episode, co-hosts, Megan Piggott and David Chew, head to work with TDW Marine. You may have heard of the popular children’s story The Little Engine That Could, but there is absolutely nothing little about the engines they work on in this episode.
 
Keep an eye on the Salty Jobs website for when the episode is released! If you’re interested in showcasing one of your marine industry jobs in a future episode, contact Megan Piggott at Megan@miasf.org to learn more. 

Featured Job: Yacht Manager

Yacht Manager
Ocean Independence
 
Job Description:
OCEAN Management, a division of OCEAN Independence, specializes in the operational and technical management of luxury super yachts worldwide. We are seeking a Yacht Manager to be based at our Fort Lauderdale office. Your skills must include:
·      Commercial Mate, Captains or Engineer’s certificate or similar
·      Minimum of 2 – 3 years operational experience onboard yachts or passenger vessels, or similar managerial shore-based experience
·      Excellent written and spoken English language skills
·      Strong computer literacy skills, proficient in Word and Excel
·      The ability to work independently and to communicate correctly and effectively with our high-profile clients
 
Responsibilities would include - general yacht management, accounting, refitting and dry-docking activities and crew management. The role involves frequent travel for yacht inspections and ISM audits. This is an exciting opportunity within our young and enthusiastic Yacht Management team. OCEAN Management continues to grow and is planning to expand further in the future, offering very promising prospects for the right candidate.
 
How to Apply: Submit your CV and resume to management@ocyachts.com. 

Did You Know?

Did you know that tickets for the 62nd Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show are now on sale? Purchase your tickets here.

Welcome Aboard New Members!

REGULAR MEMBERS:
 
Advanced Waterjet Solutions, Inc.
Justin Montes
Email: justin@awjsolutions.com
Website: www.awjsolutions.com
3309 SW 11th Avenue
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Phone: (954) 533-2464
Company Description: Advanced Waterjet Solutions was founded in 2009 to help serve companies operating in South Florida's Marine Industry. Our 90,000 PSI abrasive waterjets can cut a wide variety of materials with a repeatability tolerance of .003" of an inch. Our design engineers can bring your sketch to reality through advanced CAD software. Whether your project is as simple as a luxurious yacht sign, or as intricate as a diesel engine component; Advanced Waterjet has you covered!
Business Category: Machine Shops, Miscellaneous
 
Affordable Bilge Cleaning, LLC
Gael Carlson
Email: bcarlson@rcn.com
Website: www.affordablebilgecleaning.com
1851 SW 2nd Avenue, #A8
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Phone: (561) 666-7374
Company Description: engines and generators cleaning & detailing, mobile pump out
Business Category: Engines – Generators
 
Bluewater Crew Training USA
Stacy Buckley
Email: stacy@bluewateryachting.com
Website: www.bluewateryachting.com
750 W Sunrise Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
Phone: (954) 779-7764
Company Description: Bluewater Crew Training provides training programs for all levels of yacht crews from basic STCW to Masters & engineering courses. BW is USCG, MCA & RYA approved.
Business Category: Captain – Crew Training, Education/Training
 
Glidecoat, A Division of Onan Technologies, Inc.
Sean Smith
Email: sean@glidecoat.com
Website: www.glidecoat.com
7812 SW Jack James Drive
Stuart, FL 34997
Phone: (561) 290-0165
Company Description: Onan Technologies Inc. DBA Glidecoat is the premier manufacturer of ceramic surface protection products for the marine, automotive and aviation industries and is based in Stuart, Florida.  At Glidecoat we continually develop and refine our various products in the marketplace and through independent laboratory testing. Supported by the extensive library of case studies and endorsements available on our website, we can confidently say -  Glidecoat is the Ultimate in Surface Protection.
Business Category: Manufacturer – Accessories, Marine Paint Companies, Specialty Products, Yacht Maintenance
 
Golten Service Company, Inc.
Trevor Mankini
Email: trevor.mankini@goltens.com
10125 USA Today Way
Miramar, FL 33025
Phone: (305) 576-4410
Company Description: Since 1978, Goltens Miami has been providing a full range of preventive and emergency repair services to our Marine, Industrial, Offshore and Stationary power customers throughout the Americas and Caribbean. Goltens Miami specializes in Large Bore Engine Repairs and Services, Engine Control Systems and Parts, In-Place Specialized Machining, Ballast Water Treatment Installations, Major Shipboard Repairs, and Workshop Assistance.
Business Category: Engines – Repair, Machine Shops, Marine Engine Parts, Naval Architects/Marine Engineers
 
Westwind Marine Advisors, LLC
Doug West
Email: douglasmwest@comcast.net
Website: N/A
2145 Wells Place
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
Phone: (561) 601-2590
Company Description: Westwind Marine Advisors, LLC provides guidance for marine businesses in developing strategic business plans, optimizing organizational efficiency and building high performing, engaged teams.  We also specialize in building business development strategies and improving customer experience insight and understanding.
Business Category: Marine Consultants
 
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS:
 
Global Venture Consulting
Emily King
Email: eking@aglobalventure.com
Website: www.aglobalventure.com
1800 N Federal Highway, 202
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Phone: (518) 598-7241
Company Description: Global Venture leverages our ecosystem of innovative partners to pursue unique opportunities in new markets that are open for innovation and growth.
Business Category: Environmental Consultants
 
Jag Insurance Group
Andy Fajardo
Email: afajardo@jaginsgroup.com
Website: www.jaginsgroup.com
999 Pone De Leon Blvd., Suite 800
Coral Gables, FL 33134
Phone: (305) 842-3600
Company Description: Property and casualty insurance agency
Business Category: Insurance – Marine
 
Stimpson
Keith Gentilin
Email: keith_gentilin@stimpson.com
Website: www.stimpson.com
1515 SW 13th Court
Pompano Beach, FL 33069
Phone: (954) 946-3500
Company Description: Stimpson is the leading US-based manufacturer and supplier of marine fastening solutions, including grommets & washers and snaps.  Stimpson maintains the largest and most complete inventory of ISO:9001:2015 certified parts, with most standard products available for same-day shipping from our manufacturing facility right here in Pompano Beach.  Visit us at webstore.stimpson.com to order or call 877-765-0748 for more information.
Business Category: Manufacturer – Accessories