Newsletter October 2019


From The Captain's Chair

From The Captain's Chair

October 2019



Captain's Chair: FLIBS Turns 60!

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. From its humble beginnings as a neighborhood show managed by volunteers to today’s status as the largest in-water boat show in the world, FLIBS is an important and economically significant annual event that provides an $857 million statewide impact. As the owners of the show, MIASF takes its stewardship of marine businesses in the region seriously and ensures the ongoing success of the boat show correlates to the ongoing success of our industry.

During the five days of the show, MIASF will once again be stationed at the heart of the show on the MIASF Hospitality Lounge at Bahia Mar Face Dock, Purple Zone, Slip 13. Onboard we will be hosting several industry events, lectures, the 6th Annual Global Business Luncheon, the NBC Sports Network film crew, the ever-popular Exhibitor Appreciation Party, the Marine Research Hub Summit, and the daily buffet lunch for members and guests. While we know your days will be hectic as well, we hope you have an opportunity to join us at some point.

Our partnership with Informa Markets has allowed for an even greater investment and evolution of FLIBS, with new infrastructure, advanced technology, adding a 3.5-acre Superyacht Village at Pier Sixty-Six South, exciting events and entertainment, and incorporating a charitable component that inspires us all.

Open to all general admission ticket holders, the new Superyacht Village will be home to the show’s largest vessels in the show, with valet parking, an onsite dining destination, the Captain and Crew Lounge, an art installation, an exotic and collectible car display, helicopters and submarines. Additionally, SYV will host some VIP and special events, including the Mayor’s Reception and the 2nd Annual Sunset Soiree and Yacht Chef Competition.

The Windward VIP Club will have a new in-water location next to the MIASF Hospitality Lounge at Bahia Mar Face Dock, and will feature outdoor terraces, premium open bar, gourmet food offerings, and exclusive events by presenting sponsor Delta Private Jet and the Official Timekeeper of FLIBS, Ulysse Nardin.

NBC Sports Network will be onsite for the second year, filming its one-hour post-show FLIBS special that will air on Sunday, December 15th. The Best of Show trophy, created by renowned designer Derek Jenkins, will be awarded on Thursday of the show onboard the winning vessel. 

MIASF and Informa will continue supporting the Hurricane Dorian relief effort for the Abacos and Grand Bahama through the #FLIBS4Bahamas initiative, which includes a voluntary online donation option on the FLIBS ticket order page, onsite donation opportunity at ticket windows, collection at the Bahamas Tourism exhibitor booth, proceeds from yacht chef competition, and through the raffle of a Pioneer Sportfish 180 donated by Palm City Yachts, all benefitting Mission of Hope and ONE Bahamas.

As we already anticipate new opportunities for next year’s show, we know the convention center will be under its long-planned renovation and expansion, and we look forward to working with the Broward County leaders to make accommodations for FLIBS 2020 and beyond.

I look forward to seeing you at the show!


Advocacy Report

Advocacy Report

Once again, MIASF will take the lead on Broward Days’ Marine Industry Impact Team and will begin hosting stakeholder meetings with various marine-related associations this month to develop a list of legislative priorities to take to Tallahassee January 21st and 22nd. Broward Days is an independent, nonprofit and nonpartisan group of people advocating for the diverse needs and concerns of the citizens of Broward County. In 2020, the legislative session will begin in January instead of March because it is a presidential election year. Broward Days is a great way to have collective voices heard on the specific needs of the marine industry. For more information, or to get involved, contact kelly@miasf.org.

The test deviation period for the FEC railway bridge over the New River was set to expire on October 19th but it has been extended until the end of the year while we continue to negotiate a scheduling solution. 

Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) commissioners held a meeting in Broward County this month and passed a resolution to request that the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) move forward with the Project, Develoment, and Environmental (PDE) phase of a new bridge once the updated study is complete. Commissioners followed up with a letter in support of establishing a public-private partnership, known as a P3, as they previously took a position of supporting rail projects by committing funds to raise the Loxahatchee Bridge for the benefit of boaters.


Business Highlight: Bahia Mar Resort and Yachting Center

Business Highlight: Bahia Mar Resort and Yachting Center

The Bahia Mar Resort and Yachting Center is the ultimate hotel and marina destination in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. The marina offers 250 slips capable of handling vessels up to 300 feet along its 3,000-foot parallel dock and more than 5,000 feet of floating docks. The facility offers high speed fueling, free WiFi, cable television, in-slip sanitary pump-out, a marine store, dive shop, a marine maintenance provider and full access to all the amenities located within the property and the hotel, featuring restaurants, shops, pool, and tennis, directly across the street from a pristine sand beach along the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can take advantage of the finest in dockside amenities while enjoying endless activities without having to leave the marina.

A beautiful getaway between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, the Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach – a Doubletree by Hilton, is ideally located in a spectacular waterfront destination with panoramic views and the beach. Bahia Mar offers two accommodation buildings: The Marina Wing with standard and marina view guest rooms and the Bahia Tower, rising 16 stories, providing partial ocean and ocean view rooms. Multiple dining options are available onsite including Breezes, Waves Rooftop Bar & Grill, and the High Tide Lounge. For quick snacks, The Market has a variety of beverages, snacks, sandwiches, homemade gelato, and more. Fun-filled activities for the family include water sports, sightseeing cruises, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, and scuba excursions, or guests can lounge by the pool with refreshments or enjoy live music on the patio. The award-winning property features 25,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space and was recognized by ConventionSouth Magazine as one of the 'Best 2019 New and Renovated Meeting Sites'. Bahia Mar has hosted a variety of gatherings — from stylish weddings and corporate meetings to events such as the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and Tortuga Music Festival.


Faces in the Industry: Tim Davey

Faces in the Industry: Tim Davey

Tell us where you are from, what brought you to Florida, and how long you’ve lived here.

Born in New Zealand but grew up in Fiji. Came to Florida after a successful career at sea in the cruise industry to manage port operations and shore excursions for a south Florida cruise line.  Been in South Florida 26 years.

Where do you work, what is your job title, and what does your job entail?

Managing Director of GMT Global Marine Travel. We specialize in flying persons in the maritime community from their homes to vessels and maritime projects globally. We use commercial airlines, private aircraft, helicopters, work boats…. whatever it takes to get people to their place of work and back.  

How did you initially become interested in the marine industry?

Sea The World. No better place for a young person to be, travelling having new experiences, meeting new people - oh and getting paid to do it, what’s not to love about being in the marine industry?

What is your favorite or most valuable benefit of membership in MIASF?

When needed we can bond together as a community to overcome the issue of the day whether it be an advocacy issue or a humanitarian effort such as the recent work done in the Bahamas.

Describe any other community organizations or events with which you are involved.

GMT’s mission is to give back to the community that supports us therefore we sponsor athletic events, networking events and most recently the Ocean Exchange, lets protect our environment.

Tell us about your hobbies and what kinds of things you do for fun.

For fun I like to find ways to keep Phil Purcell’s blood pressure up!!


News

News

Former president of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida and recipient of the group’s Golden Anchor Award, Elmer Strauss who was once named Fort Lauderdale’s Man of the Year and is credited with helping grow the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, passed away on October 7th.

Since the 1970s, he started parts supplier and service providers that include Cable Marine, Boat Owners Warehouse, BOW Worldwide, DS Hull and Yacht Equipment and Parts. Mr. Strauss died on Oct. 7. He was 85. Born in Philadelphia, Mr. Strauss attended Pennsylvania Military Prep School, earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Penn State University, and was in the U.S. Army. Previously married with six children, he and his family lived in Absecon, New Jersey, before moving to Fort Lauderdale in 1972. Mr. Strauss was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Virginia Dell Strauss, and his grandson, Thomas Warren. He is survived by his children, Carla Strauss, Peter Strauss (and Robin), John Strauss (and Mindy), Terri Strauss, James Strauss and Deborah Warren, along with nine grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and a niece.          

Can’t get enough Salty Jobs? This season MIASF has created a new segment called Salty Scenes to give you a look at scenes too salty to make it into each episode. Check out our first scene here as we look back at our Water Taxi episode, which may include a special appearance by everyone’s favorite dummy.           

Soon after the close of the 60th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention Center will begin its next phase of renovation. Alternative accommodations for the 2020 show have been discussed at length with the convention center leadership, Informa U.S. Markets, and MIASF so that an appropriate-sized paved and tented area onsite will be available to house the exhibitors during the transition to a larger, modern, facility with a stunning waterfront ballroom. Planners anticipate FLIBS in 2021 will be the first event held in the enhanced facility.


Member News

Member News

Lauderdale Marine Center announced th opening of YOT Bar & Kitchen! YOT is now offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and will help plan private events. The next best thing to being on the water is being at YOT, Fort Lauderdale’s celebrated new bar and restaurant with 360° waterway views and a cool, blue vibe throughout. YOT offers its own brand of unforgettable hospitality with tempting fare and an inviting, casual atmosphere. Reservations are strongly encouraged by calling 954-953-9000 or kristen@yotlmc.com.        

Lewis Marine Supply and Jerry’s Marine Service announce that they are joining forces to offer more products, more services, and more support for customers. Combining product lines greatly increases everything from engines, parts, and oil to plumbing, building supplies, paint and more! Full access to all product lines is available immediately - just ask for product availability or pricing. Customers can also log into the websites at www.Lewismarine.com or www.Jerrysmarine.com - both websites will remain active until a new, integrated website is launched later this year. All the team members at Lewis and Jerry’s will continue to operate in both Fort Lauderdale facilities. Later this year Jerry’s location will be integrated into the Lewis Marine facility, conveniently located just a mile away at 220 SW 32nd St. Fort Lauderdale, 33315. The Charleston location will be rebranded, new products will be added from the Lewis line, and will continue to operate at 3601 Meeting Street Rd, North Charleston SC 29405. Some branding changes will be seen in the coming months, with the long-term plan to operate as Lewis Marine Supply. The Jerry’s Marine name will be kept for engines and motor related business.

De Antonio Yachts, headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, is coming to America by way of Nautical Ventures Group, which has been awarded the entire state of Florida for its sales jurisdiction. Additionally, Nautical Ventures was contracted to set up strategic dealer territories throughout North America and the Caribbean for the De Antonio brand. Founded in 2012 by Stanislas Chmielewski and Mark De Antonio, the pair developed a revolutionary line of hidden outboard powered boats that make better use of onboard space, while improving efficiency, usability and performance. Eight models range from 28 to 46 feet and its flagship vessel, the D46 Open, won the prestigious 2019 European Powerboat of the Year. Their new 42 model was nominated for the 2020 European Powerboat of the Year during the Cannes Boat Show.        

Fort Lauderdale-based National Marine Suppliers has opened a new office at Rybovich Superyacht Marina’s south facility. The new office will be led by Trevor Du Toit, who first worked with the company more than 12 years ago before leaving to work in both the deck and engineering departments aboard yachts ranging from 100 feet (30.4m) to 280 feet (85.3m.) National Marine Suppliers, a yacht supplier and logistical support group for more than 30 years, also has facilities in St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Antigua, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand         

BLU3 Inc., a subsidiary of Pompano Beach, Florida-based Brownie’s Marine Group, has launched Nemo, a diving system that the company says is “ultra-portable, air travel friendly, compact, affordable, and easy-to-use.” Nemo has a submersible battery pack weighing 1 1/4 pounds that powers the automatic air delivery system for an average dive of one hour. The company has stated that it’s ready to begin shipping pre-ordered units.             

Fire Ranger™ and Resolve Maritime Academy announced their coalition partnership to incorporate leading professional training and supply of safety services and equipment for all training courses and certification programs. The alliance will benefit Resolve Maritime Academy students learning U.S.C.G. Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) and Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) certifications using Fire Ranger™ class-approved equipment and services.

Dometic has received a 2019 Red Dot Award in the Brands & Communication Design category. Red Dot awards were started to recognized diversity in the field of design. They are broken down into three disciplines, product designs, brands and communication, and design concept. There were more than 1,800 entries in this year’s program.

“We developed a brand that gave us a common mission for the whole company,” Peter Kjellberg, chief marketing officer at Dometic, said in a statement. “A mission that clearly sets out the direction of our future development and offering to the market. The changes we carried out were extensive. We are now a more modern and inspiring company. The feedback, both internally and externally, has been unanimously positive.”

The Red Dot Award program has been around for 65 years. This year was the first in which companies had the opportunity to compete for the distinction. The Red Dot Award will celebrate this year’s honorees on November 1 at an awards ceremony in Berlin. Approximately 1,400 international guests will be in attendance and the winners’ exhibition, “Design on Stage,” will be there for one night. They will also be featured in the International Yearbook Brands & Communication Design 2019/2020, which comes out on November 14.

 


Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

The 60th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show begins Wednesday, October 30th at noon and will run until Sunday, November 3rd at 6:00 p.m. General admission, preview, and VIP tickets are available online at www.flibs.com or at the show.

MIASF members receive two free show tickets and two free lunch tickets, which are good for the daily buffet lunch onboard the MIASF Hospitality Lounge at Bahia Mar Face Dock Purple Zone 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and 12:00 to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Additional lunch tickets for members are available for $35 each ($40 for non-members) and can be purchased in advance by calling the MIASF office or can be bought at the door.

Members are invited to join MIASF’s 60s-themed Exhibitor Appreciation Party on Thursday, October 31st from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., also onboard the MIASF Hospitality Lounge. Guests will enjoy live music on the top deck, plenty of passed and plated appetizers, and will receive two free drink tickets. A cash bar will also be available. The event is free to exhibitors and members, but donations will be accepted to support Mission of Hope’s Bahamas disaster relief.

Tickets are on sale now for the 2nd Annual Sunset Soiree and Yacht Chef Competition, which will be held at Superyacht Village on Friday, November 1st from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The evening will also entertain guests under the stars in Superyacht Village’s lavish oasis which will feature a live performance by The Wheeland Brothers, entertainment and yacht-side fun while the yacht chefs create gourmet affair. For the 2nd year, the event will be featured in an NBC Sports Network special dedicated to The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The winners (chef and vessel) will walk away with prizes and recognition as Best Yacht Chef of the 2019 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show! Click here to purchase tickets online.

Visits www.flibs.com to find more scheduling information about fishing clinics, demonstrations, lectures, and more!


Past Events

Past Events

The International Boat Builders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) was held October 1st   through 3rd at the Tampa Convention Center. Sean Smith, MIASF director of development and host of Salty Jobs videos, was on hand to present a Super Session about marine industry workforce challenges and solutions on Monday before the show, highlighting MIASF’s success with its Workforce and Education Committee, the first-ever yacht apprenticeship program in the country, and the new Marine Dual Enrollment program, which is the first of its kind in the state and will give students the opportunity to earn credits toward their associate’s degree and ABYC certifications at Broward College

A re-scheduled Maritime Monday was held on Monday, October 14th at Pier Sixty-Six’ Pelican Landing, where MIASF members and guests were treated to cool drinks, warm appetizers, and a stunning red-hot sunset. It was the perfect ending to the 2019 Maritime Monday season. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone back again in January 2020!         

More than 100 people joined MIASF and the South Florida Business Journal staff at the release of the SFBJ Marine Industry Special Section and Book of Lists at a Breakfast with the Journal Event on Friday, October 11th. The Book of Lists is an important industry publication that affirms the significance of the marine industry as a major employer and economic driver in the region. Additional copies of the special section are available at the MIASF office.


Did You Know?

Did You Know?

The new Salty Jobs website also hosts an exciting new job board, powered by JoBarto, that allows members to post as many jobs as they want for free until the end of the year! Check it out here.


Welcome Aboard New Members!

Welcome Aboard New Members!

REGULAR MEMBERS:

Antillean Marine Shipping Corp.

Roselvic Noguera

Email: rnoguera@antillean.com 

Website: www.antillean.com 

3038 NW North River Dr.

Miami, FL 33142

Phone: 305-633-6361

Company Description: Ocean cargo shipping vessel delivery/transport - towing – shipyard.

 

JV Connectivity

John Valence

Email: john@jvconnectivity.com 

Website: www.jvconnectivity.com 

21218 St. Andrews Blvd., #203

Boca Raton, FL 33433

Phone: 561-827-5773

Company Description: We specialize in Superyacht Cellular Connectivity, this is our core business. JV|Connectivity understands the services and technology required for peak performance, while keeping your Superyacht connected during the most crucial times. We provide flexible access to the most leading networks, unparalleled services, with top-level support. Backed with over 15 years of direct wireless operator experience and the most trusted relationships with VSAT, Marine AV/IT, and Marine Electronics companies in South Florida. We are eliminating common pain points involving Superyacht Cellular Data.

Cellular Data Services: United States | Mediterranean | Caribbean | Bahamas | Canada | Mexico

 

Marsh

Howard Brod

Email: howard.a.brod@marsh.com 

Website: https://pcs.marsh.com/us/solutions/yacht.html 

1800 SE 10th Ave., Ste 215

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Company Description: The Marsh Private Client Services (PCS) Yacht Practice, a division of Marsh USA Inc., is a team of yacht insurance experts located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Southwest Harbor, Maine. This team is exclusively dedicated to serving the yacht insurance and risk management needs of yacht and mega-yacht owners.

 

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS:

 

Total Window, Inc.

Jesse Stolow

Email: jesse@totalwindow.com 

Website: www.totalwindow.com 

1249 Stirling Rd., Suite 15

Dania Beach, FL 33004

Phone: 954-921-0109

Company Description: For over 30 years, Total Window, Inc. has been the ultimate destination for boutique, innovative, custom window furnishings for the home and marine worlds. We believe that all living spaces must have the proper balance of natural and artificial light. Our team loves tackling every step of the design and implementation process so you can focus on other things. Our in-house installation team guarantees a job done right. And relationships with every major manufacturer of shades, blinds, shutters, and draperies means unparalleled design opportunities for your project.