Boat Trader Insider - Official boat blog of Boat Trader

Boat Dealers Who Respond To Leads Within Two Hours Have 20 Percent Conversion Rate

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 06:30:00 +0000

Dealers have a 20 percent conversion rate on leads that get a response within two hours, ARI/Channel Blade director of education Bob McCann told attendees at the recent Marine Dealer Conference & Expo, held Nov. 16-18 in Orlando, Fla.

That rate, he said, drops down to 2 percent for a response that takes four or more hours.

So why then is the industry's average response time 23.91 hours?

"The Internet doesn't sell boats, the good dealers do," McCann said. "The Internet is serving us up opportunities."

However, if not used correctly, the Internet - especially a dealer's Web site - could be a liability. And considering 62 percent of buyer’s use the Web to research a product before purchasing it, dealers can’t afford to miss those leads.

Dealers should think of that initial e-mail contact as a “meet and greet,” after all, if someone walked into the dealership, they wouldn’t be ignored.

McCann said 129 dealers at the conference were "mystery shopped" by being sent an e-mail lead. He heard back from 77 percent - or 99 dealers.

Of those, 60 percent responded with an e-mail, 40 percent with a phone call and 23 percent with both. However, the average response time was 25.86 hours for this group of dealers.

Of 1,347 dealers industry-wide who have been "mystery shopped," only 56 percent responded. Of those, 43 percent responded through e-mail, 26 percent through a phone call and 13 percent through both.

McCann suggested dealers respond with an e-mail and follow up with a phone call. That phone call, he said, should be used to set up a face-to-face meeting.

E-mails, he said, need to contain a dealer's logo on top of the e-mail; a subject line that gives the dealer's name, as well as the brand name; an answer to any questions the potential customer may have asked in their initial inquiry, such as price, and it should set the stage for a phone call.

Dealers may also want to attach photos and include any sales programs that may interest the potential customer.

A template that can be easily personalized is a good idea to keep on hand, McCann said.

Following his presentation, McCann awarded sales people from the following dealerships Pride awards for their lead responses: Bohner Lacefield Marine, Lake Union Sea Ray, Lynnhaven Marine, Dockside Marine and Seattle Boats.

Boating Industry Magazine Announces 24 Of The Top 100 Boat Dealers In North America Are Sea Ray Dealers

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:30:00 +0000

Brunswick has announced that according to a ranking by a leading marine trade publication, 24 of the top 100 boat dealers in North America are Sea Ray dealers. That’s more than any other boat manufacturer on the list.

Brunswick reports that half of the top 10 dealers are Sea Ray dealers, and the number one dealer in the ranking, Sail & Ski Center of Austin, Texas, is also a Sea Ray dealer.

We’re very proud of our Sea Ray dealers that earned recognition on Boating Industry’s Top 100 Dealers List,” said Rob Parmentier, president of Sea Ray. “We have worked diligently with all of our dealers in a true spirit of partnership to deliver the best experience for today’s boater. The fact that we had 24 dealers on this year’s list, compared to 21 last year, shows that we and our dealers continue to improve our customer service and satisfaction.

Source: Brunswick

Plastiki - A Boat Made From Recycled Plastic Sets Out To Help Protect Oceans

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:00:00 +0000

USA Today reports on the upcoming voyage of Plastiki, a 60-foot catamaran made entirely out of recycled plastic bottles.

According to the USA Today story, Plastiki took two years to create and is set for a 11,000-mile next month across the Pacific from San Francisco to Sydney.

Plastiki was created by David de Rothschild, who wants to raise awareness of the problem that plastic waste causes for the world’s oceans.

USA Today also features video of Rothschild explaining the design and construction of Plastiki.

You can learn more about Plastiki at the offical site for The Plastiki Expedtion

Source: The Plastiki Expedition and USA Today

Caterpillar Launches Cat C9 ACERT Engines with Zeus Pod Drives

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:30:00 +0000

Caterpillar Marine Power Systems has announced that the Cat C9 ACERT marine engine is now compatible with the innovative Zeus Pod Drive.

According to Caterpillar, because the Cat C9 ACERT engine is perfectly balanced with the pod drive, customers will notice smoother and more accurate maneuverability from the independent joystick control.

Photo Credit: Caterpillar Marine Power Systems

Another advantage is that the aft-facing pod drive results in greater efficiency, without sacrificing safety because the propellers are protected by the pod’s gear case and a skeg should the drive encounter underwater debris.

The Caterpillar C9 ACERT – Zeus Pod Drive System combination was tested with different yachts under a variety of conditions, including a 44-feet Sea Ray yacht that completed a demo tour along the eastern seaboard of the United States. Regular deliveries of the package began in summer 2009, following great interest expressed by well-known yacht builders world-wide.

Photo Credit: Caterpillar Marine Power Systems

“Engineering the Cat C9 ACERT engine together with the Zeus Pod Drive System reflects the desire of our customers for additional power, control and safety,” said David Shannon, Manager Global Pleasure Craft, Caterpillar Marine Power Systems. “With Cat C-series marine engines already regarded as a gold standard for performance in pleasure craft, they will now also become recognized for unparalleled enjoyment in pleasure craft!”

Source: Caterpillar Marine Power Systems

Gen II 3 Series Lights Offer Double The Output

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:30:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Aqualuma Underwater Lighting

Aqualuma Underwater Lighting offers its Gen II 3 Series Lights, aking the boating experience more illuminating and colorful.

According to Aqualuma Underwater Lighting, innovations from the Gen II range include more than double the light output for the 3 Series.

Another upgrade is Aqualuma's exclusive one-piece, non-corrosive housing, which now features a new tint for enhanced clarity and is resistant to chemicals. This housing enables Gen II lights to be fitted with any sealant approved for below water applications.

Photo Credit: Aqualuma Underwater Lighting

The lights are offered with a standard beam of 12˚ or a wide-angle, elliptical beam of 12˚ x 50˚. They draw less than 0.5 amps at 12V or less than 0.3 amps at 24V. If necessary, the exclusive one-piece housing allows the three LEDs' driver and LEDs to be serviced without hauling out the vessel.

Available in Ultra Blue, Ultra Green or Brilliant White, Aqualuma's Gen II 3 Series Lights come with 12' of tinned cable and a three-year warranty.

Source: Aqualuma Underwater Lighting

The 450 Sea Ray Sundancer

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:40:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

Sea Ray recently introduced the new 450 Sundancer, equipped with features like standard Axius propulsion system with joystick control, a fiberglass hardtop with retractable sunroof, a cockpit entertainment center with optional grill and TV, and a designated “media room” in the cabin.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

According to Sea Ray, the 450 Sundancer builds upon the versatility of its Sundancer siblings with a seamless hardtop and bonded-in windshield that provide unsurpassed climate control thanks to a forward vent, sunroof, and optional cockpit air conditioning/heating. The benefit is comfortable boating in all kinds of weather. Two, doublewide benches with flip-up bolsters and armrests serve the helm and port console.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

The helm itself comes with a full complement of driving and navigation aids to make operation easier than ever, from the SmartCraft VesselView display, to the Axius or Zeus joystick control, to the amazing Skyhook station-keeping feature. Twin diesel Zeus® pod drives are also available either with the QSB 380’s or the QSB 480’s, allowing customers to personalize their power depending on how and where they boat.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

Leisure possibilities abound at the large, U-shaped cockpit lounge with removable table. The aft-most backrest of this seat is split, and the two sections pivot open to create an extension of the sun pad, which has abundant storage below for lines, fenders, and other necessary items. On the starboard side of the cockpit, a big, L-shaped wet bar with icemaker will keep everyone hydrated, and owners can choose to add an optional grill, refrigerator, and removable 19” flatscreen TV to create an “outdoor galley” atmosphere.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

Under the sleek exterior of the 450 lies a classic-contemporary interior, with top-of-the-line cabinetry from Sea Ray’s Cape Canaveral Woodworking & Finishing Facility, Ultraleather seating, brushed chrome accents, and optional wood floors. Ambient light from the oversized hull windows and skylight gives a natural glow to the earthy materials used in the cabin.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

The forward stateroom features a full-size island V-berth with memory foam mattress and electric extension and Posturepedic backrest, plus a Shoji-style sliding door and separate head and shower compartments with tile floors. The main cabin houses a spacious galley with stainless-steel appliances and loads of storage along the port side; to starboard, a dining area with folding table easily coverts to a sleeper. The Sony stereo located here comes fully outfitted with an iPod docking station, CD player, Sirius satellite receiver, amplifier, subwoofer, and more.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

At the heart of its entertainment-ready interior, the new 450 features a unique media room abaft the salon that comes complete with theater seats, accent lights, and an entertainment system boasting a gaming system port, MP3 port, DVD player, and a 32-inch TV. If it's true surround-sound feel you're looking for and a large-screen experience, select the optional entertainment package that offers the Bose 3-2-1 System and 37-inch flatscreen.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

A long list of options allows the owner to rig the new 450 Sundancer with advanced electronics, generators, teak exterior decking, a foredeck sun pad, hydraulic-lift swim platform, rod holders, and several choices of upgraded stereos and TVs throughout.

Source: Sea Ray

Boat Trader Releases iPhone Application

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:15:00 +0000

Boat Trader has released a free iPhone application on iTunes offering more than 100,000 new and used boats, yachts, sailboats and personal watercrafts at shoppers' fingertips.

The Boat Trader application is GPS-sensitive and shoppers can find a dealer in their vicinity or search for boats by type, new/used condition, price range and model year - in a specific zip code or by location! Users can also view multiple boat and dealer locations on enhanced Google maps and quickly access driving directions.

You can download the Boat Trader app from the iTunes Official Store.

Source: Boat Trader

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Turns 50

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:00:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Show Managment

TCpalm.com reports on the upcoming Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, running October 29 to November 2, 2009, and the hopes for a rebound in the boat market.

Photo Credit: Show Managment

According to the site for the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the world's largest boat show is turning 50 this year and will celebrate with an extravaganza of more than $3 billion worth of boats, yachts, superyachts, electronics, engines and thousands of accessories from every major marine manufacturer and builder worldwide.

Photo Credit: Show Managment

The show encompasses more than 3 million square feet of space, both on land and in water, at six sites and are all connected by the official Show Transportation Network.

Source: TCPalm and The Fort Lauderdale Boat Show

Breathe - Maximize Your Baitwell’s Efficiency

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:30:00 +0000

by Steve Dougherty

It was a steamy dawn along the mainland of Mexico as I boarded a rickety panga in hopes of battling the Pacific’s most powerful pelagics. We pushed the wooden skiff off the beach and battled the shorebreak en route to the local bait boat.

We dumped two 5-gallon buckets of seawater into the front bulkhead and with the addition of a dozen frisky goggle-eye we were on our way. An occasional bucket of fresh saltwater dumped into the makeshift baitwell and our baits seemed as happy as could be, that was until the early afternoon sun finally took its toll on the susceptible scad.

This rudimentary livewell system is still widely used in many impoverished countries, however since the introduction of live chumming, kite-fishing, and release tournaments where anglers are required to weigh their catch alive, the technological advancements onboard baitwell systems have received, and the extent some fishermen go to keep their baits in prime shape, are quite impressive.

It’s no secret that baitfish need clean, cool, oxygenated water to survive. If removed from their natural environment and placed in less than ideal conditions, their chance of survival decreases by the minute. This explains why it’s a challenge to find any new boat that isn’t outfitted with at least one well-plumbed baitwell. The fact of the matter is that the ability to keep baitfish alive throughout the entire day is an essential factor to any angler’s overall success, inshore or off.

An effective baitwell essentially accomplishes three things. It provides life-sustaining oxygen, prevents the accumulation of harmful waste products, and keeps offerings frisky and stress free. Generally, high-powered pumps that provide a constant exchange of saltwater provide plenty of cool and clean water, but under certain circumstances you may need to increase oxygen content. Items such as The OXYGENATOR (www.keepfishalive.com) utilize a scientific process that splits the water molecule into separate elements – hydrogen and oxygen.

The oxygen bubbles quickly dissolve into the water while the lighter and larger hydrogen bubbles rise to the surface where they dissipate back into the atmosphere. Lets not overlook the fact that warm water holds less dissolved oxygen than cool water, so if you believe your precious baits are succumbing too quickly, during the blistering summer months you may well require the benefits of an oxygen infusion system.

Chemical additives that greatly improve water quality are also available and highly regarded among tournament professionals. Additives are beneficial in removing ammonia, detoxifying nitrites, maintaining PH levels as well as promoting the healing of slime coats and damaged scales.

It may come as a surprise, but the type of lid you utilize and interior color of your baitwell also affect your guests’ comfort level. Some species of baitfish seem to live a more stress-free life when they have light in the baitwell. This can be accomplished by adding an LED light, or with the addition of a clear lid. I prefer the natural light that’s provided by a clear lid, as the ambient light acclimates the baits to their natural environment. Another thing you can do to reduce stress levels is paint the interior of your baitwell blue. The soothing color helps to reduce shadows and therefore keeps baits more relaxed.

When standard in-deck livewells are insufficient to maintain a day’s worth of tournament offerings, veterans add an additional above-deck livewell. When choosing an additional livewell make sure you select the appropriate tank for the species you plan on storing. Threadfin herring, menhaden and Spanish sardines are particularly susceptible to die-off from stress and poor water quality. Any type of well without rounded corners and adequate water flow will provide less than ideal conditions for these not-so-hardy offerings.

If you find yourself contemplating why so many of your precious baits are floating belly up, don’t jump the gun and blame the baitfish. It may be that your baits aren’t getting enough clean, cool and oxygenated water. Whatever the case, keeping your offerings fresh, healthy and active will greatly increase your success no matter where you ply your craft. After all, sensational fishing starts with sensational bait. – Steve Dougherty

Torqeedo's Kayak Motor Allows Anglers to Increase Range

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:30:00 +0000

Torqeedo's homepage features details on the Ultralight 402 outboard motor.

Photo Credit: Torqeedo

When it comes to kayak fishing, every advantage counts. That's why professionals such as Chad Hoover, pair their kayak with an outboard designed specifically for fishing. With a total weight of 15 lbs., including the battery, Torqeedo's Ultralight 402 can be easily mounted onto most rigid kayaks. It's IP67-rated and can operate when temporarily submersed.

"I've taken this motor over cypress knees, shale rock and dense vegetation, including lily pads," said Hoover. "I beat this motor up and it just keeps going. It even performs well in shallow water."

"I'd recommend this motor to other anglers," continued Hoover. "It frees my hands up to fish. The Ultralight is also quiet, fast, lightweight, efficient, smooth and easily adjusted. The speed and presentation can be dialed in to match your technique and not the other way around."

Photo Credit: Torqeedo

With propulsive power equivalent to a 1 hp gas outboard, it can reach a max speed between 5.0-6.0 mph for about half an hour, depending on the type of kayak. At slow speed, it provides a range of 12-15 miles. An integrated board computer combines information from the motor, batteries and a built-in GPS, enabling kayakers to monitor battery charge, speed and remaining range at current speed.

"The Torqeedo kayak outboard is a great addition to any beginning, intermediate or advanced paddling angler's arsenal," continued Hoover. "It helps increase your range and the amount of water you can cover, which can ultimately increase your ability to catch fish."

Source: Torqueedo

WakeWorld.com Choses "The Ghost" Malibu Boats 2010 Wakesetter VLX

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 19:00:00 +0000

The Malibu Boats blog features a story on "The Ghost" Malibu VLX, chosen by WakeWorld.com for their official towboat.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

According to Malibu Boats, “The Ghost” WakeWorld.com Malibu VLX is all white. That and because it haunts the waters of Southern California with big scary customizable wakes in addition to a boatload of new 2010 Malibu innovations.

This year’s WakeWorld.com VLX rocks a weightless fold-down Illusion G3 tower with four new Titan Slide-off Spinner Racks, a new color-matched fiberglass floor with snap-out carpet, new Wakesetter hull graphics, the new MaliView 6.5” Dash System with video and the protection of Malibu Boats Salt Water Package, just to name a few features.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

The WakeWorld.com boat appears to be floating even in tow thanks to the loaded bright white Tandem Axle Salt Water Trailer built by Boatmate.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

WakeWorld.com Discussion, one of the most trafficked rider discussion boards online, was the first forum to publish photos of the site’s new wakeboard boat. That should be expected, but the photos were posted before Williams had even seen his new boat. The images were posted by a WakeWorld.com subscriber. The VLX happened to make a few stops at other Malibu Boats Dealerships before arriving in So Cal. Photos were snapped, posted and the rave reviews began.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

When Williams finally saw his new Wakesetter VLX in person this is how he reacted. “I was blown away before the cover even came off!” Williams explained, “Not only did the Boatmate trailer look unbelievable, but the hull has some great new angles that look really sharp.” Williams went on, “Of course, once the cover came off and the tower went up, I was even more impressed.”

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

This is the 5th time in the last five years WakeWorld.com has chosen the Malibu Boats Wakesetter VLX as the site’s official wakeboard boat. And according to Dave Williams, WakeWorld.com’s Owner/Editor, this is why he continues to make Malibu Boats his choice. “Probably the biggest reason why I think this [Malibu Wakesetter VLX] is the best boat out there is the fact that you can flip a few switches or engage a Rider Preset and you've got a wake that's got a great shape and is more than big enough for 90% of the riders out there. The VLX is good to go right out of the box!”

Source: Malibu Boats

IBEX 2009 A ‘Can’t Miss’ Event

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:29:00 +0000

Your presence at the International Boatbuilders' Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) is more important than ever. As you know, the boating industry has experienced rapid and significant changes in the past year. Now is not the time for sitting still. In just three efficient days at IBEX, you can:

Connect with your current suppliers and discover new ones
Negotiate new pricing
Confirm commitments
Gather competitive information that might help your company gain an advantage
Increase your market share

Now is the time for action and planning. Make your travel plans today.

Discover how you can do more with less at IBEX 2009 – October 12-14 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Register today at www.ibexshow.com and let’s make progress happen!
In addition to being one of the best venues for conducting business with manufacturers, gaining exposure to key industry developments, IBEX 2009 will offer three free seminars designed specifically for marine dealers as part of its new IBEX Dealer Development Days pavilion. IBEX 2009 is being held October 12 – 14 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

“Dealer-oriented seminars are a logical extension of our existing education platform and they enhance the new IBEX Dealer Development Days pavilion,” said Carl Cramer, show co-director and Professional BoatBuilder magazine publisher. “Offering timely, relevant, and useful information to all attendees is a must as we look to innovate, create new business opportunities and understand how to best maneuver the current economy.”

Topics for the free dealer seminars cover a variety of important issues and are presented by leading marine industry experts. A free seminar will be offered each day of the show, running October 12 – 14, including:

Dealer Economics: How to Survive, is presented by Michel Weisz with Berger Singerman, a Florida based business law firm that serves a diverse client base. Being held Monday, October 12, it will address the changing economics of the marine dealership. Weisz will offer insight and guidance on survival in today’s marketplace, including debt conversion, long term workouts, downsizing, and reorganization.

Stop Scaring Your Banker: What You Need to Know, is presented by Bill Thompson with the Cardinal Points Network on Tuesday, October 13. Dealers will learn how to appeal to commercial floorplan lending partners, strategies for finding the right lender, skills for communicating with commercial bankers, as well as how to build a comprehensive and effective floorplan loan request package. Tips on how to achieve commercial lending needs and employing business partner ABCs (Accountants, Bankers, and Legal Counsel) will also be covered.

Keep Your Dealership a Top-Notch Performer, Volvo Penta and Boating Industry magazine team up to offer a theoretical and real-life review of dealership best practices on Wednesday, October 14. Practical examples of company enhancements, ranging from training/education to product and market planning will be covered. Dealers will learn from case studies on dealership success to gain ideas on growing their individual businesses. This seminar also covers corporate goal setting; planning for dealership as well as market, succession, and financial planning; and a variety of product strategies and tactical activities (service department training, marketing events, inventory management). Speakers for this session are Susan Bonivich and Phil Gaynor (Volvo Penta) and Matt Gruhn (Boating Industry magazine).

To date, three leading boat builders have signed up to participate in the IBEX 2009 Dealer Development Days, the new and innovative boat building stimulus program to assist boat manufacturers and dealers in conducting crucial in-person business at a minimal cost. Discount hotel rooms are being offered to all marine dealers interested in participating.

Boat manufacturers and dealers interested in learning more about the free seminars should contact Tina Sanderson at 802–879–8324 or Anne Dunbar at 716–662–4708.

IBEX 2009 offers a complete seminar and conference series, as well as free workshops. The show will host more than 500 exhibitors, provides special pavilion areas, and hosts a special outdoor demonstration space where industry professionals can utilize the latest products in real-world application situations. Complete information on IBEX 2009, including registration, is available on www.ibexshow.com.

IBEX 2009 will take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The show is open Monday, October 12, from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (with a special opening night presentation featuring Al & Laura Ries at 6:30 p.m.); Tuesday, October 13, from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; and, Wednesday, October 14, from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

IBEX is owned and produced by Professional BoatBuilder magazine and National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and is the largest boating industry gathering of 2009. For boat builders, marine industry dealers, designers, repairers, surveyors, and boatyard/marine operators, IBEX is the single source for the latest boatbuilding technologies, tools, and materials.

Source: www.ibexshow.com.

How Dealers Can Hurt Themselves At Boat Shows

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:26:00 +0000

This tongue-in-cheek blog by Norm Schultz takes a look at how dealers can hurt themselves at boat shows. If you want to make sales at the fall shows, take a look at Norm’s suggestions – and do the opposite!

So, you say, you don’t really have any expectation that you’ll sell boats at your upcoming in-water show. Believe that and you can make it your reality. But it will take some effort to avoid making sales. So, here are some sales avoidance techniques you can use:

1. Don’t exhibit at all. Yes, it’s certain sales will be made at the fall shows. And, while shows won’t create a market that doesn’t exist, they will still draw in those prospects that are actively looking. So, even if attendance won’t be quantity, it’s guaranteed to be quality and the best way to avoid that is to be absent from the show.

2. Make it tough for people to find you. In my experience, dealers do a good job of identifying themselves at indoor shows. But, at in-water shows, they often fail to make themselves stand out. Think about it — hundreds of docks all looks pretty much the same. Moreover, most show managers do a poor job of identifying the docks by directional or information signs. I know . . . looking back, I didn’t do it well, either. So, the prospects looking for you will have a hard time finding you and you can avoid sales if you make your display blend in with all the others.

3. Board by Appointment Only. This is a winning strategy to successful keep people off your boats. Surveys show most people are offended by this requirement. So, if you want to avoid sales, this should do it. But, if you don’t want to be so obvious, the next suggestion can work well, too.

4. No shoes! Sure, many boaters will remove their shoes to board, but many others simply won’t. Perhaps it’s because they once had their shoes “walk off” at a show or someone accidentally kicked one into the water! But it’s a good technique to keep prospects off your boats. The no shoes sign also sends a message that you won’t take the time to put runners over the carpet inside the boat or that shoes will scuff up the deck. But I know a dealer who successfully turns the no shoes mentality to his favor by inviting people aboard his boats with their shoes on while telling them “you can’t hurt a Tiara!” Of course, don’t copy that if you’re trying to avoid sales!

5. Sit down in the cabin. Don’t be in the cockpit to greet people. Make sure people on the dock can see you lounging inside. They’re likely not going to disturb you. To make certain they won’t, hold your cell phone to you ear and lip sync something! No one will feel comfortable interrupting you. Don’t like the cell phone trick? Then, get another member of your sales team and hold a deep conversation. Looking totally absorbed with another employee is a sure-fire way to avoid a possible sale.

6. Make boarding difficult. Forget creating a safe ramp or other method, complete with a handle or handrail so prospects feel confident they can get from the dock to the boat. Women are particularly sensitive to boarding methods, even more so if kids are along. So, keep those wives and kids off the boat and you won’t be bothered by a sale.

7. Don’t put general info where prospects can see it. That means, don’t put a good, readable sign on the boat that gives basic info like make, model and price so people can easily read it from the dock. That way, they’ll have to ask you for basic facts, and you’ll be on the cell phone and unavailable to answer, of course.

The bottom line: The atmosphere at in-water shows is less “formal” than at the winter indoor shows, and it should be. But that also seems to lead us to a more lay-back attitude toward the shows potential. In-water shows are equally important and powerful as indoor shows, and the displays of boats dockside need to be presented as effectively and worked just as hard if sales are to be made. The fall shows, even in this recession, will produce sales for those exhibitors who are seriously up to the task.

If you’re serious about protecting your favorite investment, it’s time you consider a boat lift.

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 19:15:00 +0000

By Billy McCue – Aqua Marine Waterfront Products

While no one can deny the fact that boat lifts offer waterfront homeowners numerous conveniences, “protecting my investment” continues to remain the number one reason boaters invest in these aftermarket additions. After all, keeping your most prized possession above tidal fluctuations and well out of harms reach from abuse by wind, waves, marine growth, and corrosion from harsh saltwater contaminants is critical to the longevity and well being of our vessels.

Much like the rest of the marine industry, the last decade has yielded a plethora of innovation to the boat lift market with more yet to come. Options now exist to suit nearly every dock configuration, tidal range and type of craft. While there are a wide range of manufacturers and styles available, if you do your homework you will certainly find the proper boat lift for your particular application.

For waterfront homeowners, it’s obvious that storing your boat on a lift offers a huge convenience factor. For starters you can forget about crowded mornings at the launch ramp as well as the numerous headaches that go along with maintaining a trailer. And while tying up is nice, lifting your boat high and dry when not in use is even nicer! Not only do boat lifts add enjoyment to your overall boating experience, increase the value of your home and help maintain the value of your boat, boat lifts offer anglers the ability to inspect their vessel with great detail, whether it’s for a safety check, routine maintenance or thorough cleaning. The ability to reach all sides of the hull and visually inspect thru-hull fittings, transducers, trim-tabs and props are all a real possibility. While the boat lift you select will be largely dependent on the weight of your craft, all boat lifts make routine maintenance and docking a breeze.

Keeping in mind that manufacturers categorize their products by weight capacity, other important considerations include depth of water at the dock, length of your vessel, and type of hull (deep-V/catamaran) and propulsion (inboard/outboard). It’s also important to remember that the dry weight listed for your boat is not completely accurate.

You must compensate for fuel, water, tackle and gear. Vessels powered with outboard engines do not include the engine(s) weight in the overall displacement either, so that, too, must be factored in. While purchasing a boat lift may sometimes seem like a hefty investment, in reality they actually pay for themselves over time. Go ahead and calculate what it costs to haul-out your boat annually to apply expensive anti-fouling coatings, or the routine maintenance required to keep your trailer functional. It’s an industry fact that applying bottom paint automatically reduces the resale value of your boat by as much as 10-percent. The bottom line is that boat lifts are relatively maintenance free and make your boating and fishing experiences much more enjoyable.

When it’s time to make a final purchasing decision, the congested market of manufacturers will likely overwhelm you. Remember this – there are a few basic types of boat lifts you should consider; standard four point lifts, elevator lifts and custom lifts.

Four point lifts are exactly that. These workhorses provide support on all four sides by way of stainless steel cables running through pulleys on the four corners of the cradle. Four post lifts out-sell all other lifts combined due to the fact they are less expensive and easier to maintain and install. These lifts can be deigned to work with small to medium size boats, as well as larger craft over the 40-foot range.

Elevator style lifts are another popular option and are ideal for use in narrow canals, as they don’t take up too much space and easily allow other boats to pass by. Elevator lifts are specially designed for use where installation with multiple pilings isn’t an option. These lifts are typically mounted directly to the seawall. The only drawback to an elevator lift is a higher price tag than four post lifts.

The final option for homeowners fortunate enough to have a boathouse is the installation of a custom lift, which is nether a four point lift or an elevator lift. Boathouse lifts are popular along the Panhandle and Gulf Coast and are custom designed for each application with supporting rafters and cables that actually lift and support the vessel from above. As a side note, if you are considering building a boathouse, it is important you contact your intended boat lift dealer first to ensure a seamless installation.

For convenient operation most boatlifts are operated by an electrical connection, however a few manufacturers are starting to integrate technologically advanced solar powered options. Once you’ve decided what type of lift will be the best choice for your particular application, now you’ll have to select your options including: aluminum bunk boards, remote controls, higher RPM motors to lift faster, bunk risers for boats with a deep-V hull, anti-theft devices, and whether you want the standard tried-and-true belt drive or a hi-tech gear driven system.

If you’ve done your research and intend on making an online purchase in the hopes of saving a few bucks, be sure the company you’ve selected has verified contact information including a physical mailing address. Should you encounter any problems you want a retailer that you can easily contact. It’s also important that their policies and warranty information are clearly stated and not hidden in fine print. This is where selecting a product from a reputable party comes into play. Golden Boat Lifts stands out as one such company with a reputation that speaks for itself.

Purchasing a boat lift is only one step in the process. Once you’ve decided what’s best for you, you will be faced with the task of selecting and hiring a marine contractor capable of a professional installation. Installing a boat lift is not rocket science, but I have yet to see a “self-installed” lift that compares to the quality of a factory trained contractor installed lift. Never be afraid to ask questions and if the distributor or contractor cannot address your concerns, it might be time to look elsewhere. The most important rule of all is to do your homework. Select a marine contractor with a proven track record and years of boat lift installation experience. This point cannot be stressed enough; an installer that is licensed and insured is critical. References are a benefit as well, and don’t be afraid to ask for brochures, a website address and warranty information.

Another way to ensure you’re considering a reputable contractor is to ask questions about the DEP (Department of Environmental Conservation) and the Army Corps of Engineers. The contractor should be fully up to speed with all regulatory requirements. The permit process is your next hurdle. Even though states do differ, here in Florida no permit is required for a lift that is being installed within the docks original footprint. Piling installation is another matter altogether and usually needs to be permitted. It is better to be safe than sorry, so a quick call to the proper agencies will clear things up. A reputable contractor should take care of all this for you for a small fee and trust me; it’s well worth it.

All in all, boat lifts are extremely valuable. They only account for a small percentage of your overall boating expenses, yet they greatly reduce maintenance while simultaneously increasing safety and the value of your property. According to BoatU.S. insurance claims, for every boat that sinks while making way, four boats sink at the dock. In addition, approximately 50-percent of dockside incidents are the result of failed underwater fittings. If it’s a possibility, stop worrying about the well being of your boat and install a boat lift this season. You’ll be glad you did.

Malibu Boats Introduces Weightless Fold-Down 2010 Illusion G3 Wakeboard Tower

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 17:00:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

Maluibu Boats recently introduced the Illusion G3 tower, a new wakeboard tower standard on all Wakesetter models and features standard Titan Slide-off Spinner Wakeboard Racks, 3” stainless steel tube and billet aluminum construction along with an innovative weightless fold-down feature that folds to standard garage height.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

The new Illusion G3 can be collapsed in seconds with little instruction. The gas spring assisted design of the G3 tower allows for weightless fold-down.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

A single person can collapse this tower and does not have to be strong to do it.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

The Illusion G3 is so light, even with optional accessories like two pairs of Titan Alpha II speakers and an extra set of Titan Slide-of Spinner racks installed the tower can be folded with fingertips.

When a Titan Slide-off Spinner Wakeboard Rack is in use a slight tug on the swivel pin directs the rack to spin and lock for easy loading and unloading of boards. Pull the pin again and the rack swivels back into place. Complete with combo forks, the Titan Slide-off Spinner can accommodate both a surfboard and wakeboard on each side.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

The racks can also slide off their tower mounts for quick storage. And the first pair of Titan Slide-off Spinner racks are standard on every Illusion G3. The tower can host as many as four racks while preserving its weightless fold-down feature.

Source: Malibu Boats

Mercury Racing Releases New OptiMax 200XS Race Outboards

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:15:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Mercury Marine

Mercury Racing has announced the release of the next generation of Mercury OptiMax 200XS ROS (race offshore) and OptiMax 200XS SST (super sport tunnel) outboards. The new race models feature a Gen 2 – 2.5 Liter OptiMax powerhead, which combines components from the Mercury Racing OptiMax 2.5XS outboard and the current Mercury Racing engineered OptiMax 175 Pro XS outboard.

The OptiMax 200XS ROS is the official power of U.I.M. Class 3C offshore racing, a highly competitive single-engine, mono-hull offshore racing class that competes throughout Europe.

Photo Credit: Mercury Marine

The engines will be produced only in the short shaft “SS” 15-inch drive shaft configuration, with the 1.75:1 Sport Master gearcase. Both right-hand and left-hand rotation models will be available. Models are intended for single or twin engine installations. Right-hand rotation models feature a Sport Master gearcase with a cambered skeg – a natural for single-engine applications such as outboard drag racing.

Source: Mercury Marine

Cobra Marine Offers The MR F80B Fixed VHF radio with Rewind-Say-Again - Play Back 20 Seconds of a Missed Call

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Cobra Marine

Cobra Marine, a division of Cobra Electronics, offers its MR F80B Fixed VHF radio with Rewind-Say-Again, enabling users to record and play back up to 20 seconds of a missed call, possibly preventing problems. It's also one of the official VHF radios of Sea Tow.

A class-D DSC VHF radio, it sends a distress signal or exchanges position information with other boats or stations at the touch of a button. Similar to the caller ID function on a telephone, this radio's DSC Call Log captures an incoming DSC caller's MMSI ID number and any other data included in a DSC message for future reference.

GPS and two-way NMEA compatible, the unit can send or receive position information to or from other boats or stations in an emergency when connected to any NMEA compatible GPS receiver. It can even send the position information of other vessels, for an incoming emergency DSC call, to most chartplotters and most multifunction displays on the market.

Source: Cobra Marine

Shakespeare Introduces Two New VHF sailboat antennas

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 20:30:00 +0000

The performance of Galaxy antennas are now available in two new Shakespeare VHF sailboat antennas. To meet the requirements of demanding sailors, the Galaxy 5445 Stainless Steel Whip with Wind Vane and Galaxy 5440 Stainless Steel Whip are durable yet lightweight, with a straightforward installation.

Combining communication with information, an included wind vane on the Galaxy 5445 provides wind direction to the purist sailor. Both 3-foot, 3dB antennas offer low wind drag and come with 65' of special low-loss RG-58 coax cable and a PL-259 connector.

These dependable Galaxy VHF sailboat antennas feature an offset mounting bracket to simplify installation and help maintain distance from other mast-top devices. An exclusive solderless connector system at the base of the antenna enables easy removal of the 5445 and 5440 for storage and reinstallation.

Source: Shakespeare

The 2010 Yamaha 242 Series Features the Largest Boat Platform Ever Offered by Yamaha

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:42:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Yamaha

The Yamaha homepage features photos and details on the new Yamaha 242 Series. According to Yamaha, this is the series featuries the largest boat platform ever offered by Yamaha, the 24-foot, 10-person, 242 Series replaces Yamaha’s top-selling 232 Series. The 242 Series was designed from direct customer feedback to include their “wish list” of new features and technology as well as new signature design elements from Yamaha.

Photo Credit: Yamaha

The 242 Series features an all new deck and hull design for Yamaha. Above thewaterline, Yamaha increased the height of the freeboard, which gives the 242 Series an impressive profile. The seating area at the bow is wider and longer than ever before to allow the tallest passengers and multiple riders the space to stretch out and lounge while moored.

Photo Credit: Yamaha

The cockpit of the 242 Series is roomy and features a helm layout that is minimalist and sophisticated with large analog gauges and integrated digital information displays that provide independently controlled access to a wide range of new information.

Photo Credit: Yamaha

The 242 Series features an innovative advancement of Yamaha’s signature No Wake Mode. The No Wake Mode will now include three different RPM settings allowing the driver to easily increase or decrease their no wake speed to find the optimum setting.

Photo Credit: Yamaha

Under the waterline is Yamaha’s dual internal drive propulsion system that delivers better performance and more peace of mind than traditional stern drive models. Yamaha’s ultra-responsive internal drive system brings the 242 Series on plane faster and accelerates quicker than comparable boats. The 242’s shallow draft and enclosed impellers increase the boat’s versatility, allowing you to travel to places not accessible to stern drive boats.

Photo Credit: Yamaha

Source: Yamaha

Torqeedo Electric Outboard Reaches New Heights In Efficiency And Power

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 20:00:00 +0000

The Torqeedo homepage features details on the Cruise outboard motor. Torqeedo reports the Cruise that offers boaters more power and range from the same battery supply. With thrust equivalent to a 9.9 hp gas outboard, the Cruise 4.0 R achieves an efficiency of more than 50%.

Photo Credit: Torqeedo

According to Torqeedo, the Cruise converts supplied battery power into propulsion, measured as speed times thrust after all losses. This includes propeller loss at a rate comparable to an 8 hp gas outboard in displacement mode. Extremely powerful, the Cruise 4.0 R recently pushed a well-stocked 24' pontoon boat with 25" pontoons and seven people aboard at a recorded speed of 6.1 mph.

Photo Credit: Torqeedo

It operates on 48 V lead-gel, AGM battery bank or two high-performance lithium manganese batteries from Torqeedo's Power series. An integrated board computer combines information from the motor, batteries and the motor's GPS receiver, so boaters always know how much battery power and range is remaining. This information is easy to view on the remote throttle display, which also provides current speed, speed over ground and current power consumption in watts.

Source: Torqeedo

Powerboats at ‘rock bottom’ prices - Backlog of unsold 2008s and 2009s offers the show shopper a rare opportunity, dealers say

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:57:00 +0000

By Chris Landry
Soundings Senior Reporter

Consumers can expect unprecedented deals at this fall’s boat shows — particularly on leftover 2008 and 2009 models, manufacturers and dealers say.

“Prices have never been lower, frankly,” says Jim Krueger, vice president of operations for Mainship Corp., of Millville, N.J. “Dealers are carrying the high financing costs for the boats, so rather than paying the financing company, they’re passing those savings along to the customer.”

But when that inventory is gone, the bargain prices will be, too. “Dealers cannot continue to sell boats at these prices and stay in business,” says Krueger. “So these boats that are in the field, now is the time to grab them.”

Consumers should realize that prices have hit rock bottom, says Clute C. Ely, president of Boatworks Yacht Sales in Rowayton, Conn., a dealership for Grand Banks, Jupiter, Blue Star, Cabo and Hatteras. “Probably the most difficult thing for the potential buyer today is not to get greedy,” says Ely. “You might be saying, ‘Oh, that was the lowest price I’ve seen for the boat I want, so I have to beat that.’ That’s just not going to be true. Prices cannot go down forever.”

The best strategy, he says, is to be open, and don’t try to play games with salespeople. “People smell blood in the water and try to skirt around the edges. You’re not going to get anywhere with that,” he says.

Ely will have several yachts at the Newport, R.I., Norwalk, Conn., and Fort Lauderdale, Fla., shows, including the 2009 Cabo 40 Zeus with joystick helm control. “That boat can do amazing things,” says Ely. His dealership will also have a leftover 54-foot Hatteras sportfisherman on display. “Someone is going to get an extraordinary deal on that one,” he says.

Once manufacturers begin producing more new models, prices will go up somewhat because costs for raw materials, utilities and insurance continue to rise, says Peter Frederiksen, director of communications for Viking Yachts, of New Gretna, N.J. “Once the existing inventory is picked over, you may not be able to get the boat you want at the same price,” says Frederiksen. “Basically, today’s sale will appear like a bargain tomorrow.” (Viking will introduce the 76 Convertible at the Fort Lauderdale show.)

The Tampa Boat Show (Sept. 11-13) and the Newport International Boat Show (Sept. 17-20) start the fall season, followed by the Norwalk International In-Water Boat Show (Sept. 24-27), the U.S. Powerboat Show in Annapolis (Oct. 15-18), and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (Oct. 29-Nov. 2).

There will be fewer new boats this fall compared to previous years, but well-known builders such as Grady-White, Boston Whaler, Mainship and Sabre will make their presence felt on the show circuit with new models.

Grady-White, of Greenville, N.C., comes to the plate with its largest boat ever — a 36-foot, 7-inch center console powered with either twin or triple Yamaha 350-hp 4-strokes. Like many other big center consoles, the Grady houses a berth, galley and head in the console.

Edgewater, Fla.-based Boston Whaler also has built its largest boat yet, the 370 Outrage, an offshore center console with aggressive deadrise and a plethora of thoughtful design features. “We wanted a very comfortable boat with roominess, accommodations and performance,” says Ron Berman, vice president of product development and engineering for the Brunswick Saltwater Group, Whaler’s parent company. “We started at 36 feet, but to fit all the things we wanted we stretched it to 37.”

Mainship expects to have its new 35 Trawler at the Annapolis show, says Krueger. The 35 rides the same hull as the company’s 34 Trawler, but the builder has rearranged the interior to make room for a second stateroom. The galley has also been moved up to the saloon deck.

Another Zeus-powered boat will be exhibited — the Sabre 40 Sedan, a two-stateroom, New England-style yacht that cruises at 26 mph. And the Back Cove 37, which debuted earlier this year at the Miami International Boat Show, will also be on display this fall. The 37 is the largest model yet for Back Cove, of Rockland, Maine, and its first offering with two staterooms.

Another New England builder, Hunt Yachts of Portsmouth, R.I., will have its 52-footer in the water. Hunt has already sold and delivered two of the yachts, which are built with lightweight materials for optimal performance. The design is a product of C. Raymond Hunt and Associates.

“I tell people you’re getting pilot boat and Coast Guard-boat performance in your recreational yacht,” says Hunt Yachts president Peter Van Lancker. “It will take you at speeds in seas you don’t want to be in.”

Editor’s note: Next month, read about financing options for new and used boats.

Linesiders Lookout…Anglers Are Virtually Disappearing!

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:54:00 +0000

By Captain Mike Genoun

Fish the shallows often? Then you, too, know how incredibly spooky sly shallow water predators can be. Snook, redfish, trout, tarpon, bonefish - all exhibit super shy tendencies, which is why avoiding detection by blending into your surroundings when stalking these keen-eyed killers either from a skiff and especially when wade-fishing can greatly improve angler odds.

Inshore game fish are constantly on alert because they have to be. Their very life depends on their natural ability to detect predators before they are targeted as an easy meal. After all, with birds of prey crashing down from above, hungry sharks and barracuda attacking from below and well-equipped fishermen plying for their fair share; it's a serious war zone in the shallows.

Water inspired patterns minimize detection by providing anglers the ability to perfectly blend in with the exact type of environment they are fishing...

The latest advantage for shallow water angling enthusiasts looking to capitalize on the concealment edge is stealthy camouflage patterns printed on breathable fabrics designed specifically for hot and humid conditions. Aqua Design (www.aquadesign.com) has been designing such high-tech apparel since 1995 and remains an industry leader.

The company’s design experts are outdoor enthusiasts who know wearing camouflage patterns isn’t only about remaining at the forefront of fashion with comfortable, lightweight clothing; it’s about utilizing the latest technology in high performance outdoor wear to achieve a greater level of angling success - all while simultaneously adorning a protective shield against the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Developed from underwater photography – directly from the fish's point of view – water inspired patterns minimize detection by providing anglers the ability to perfectly blend in with the exact type of environment they’re fishing in, regardless if stalking bonefish and permit on an open flat down in the Florida Keys, chasing tarpon along a sandy West Coast beach, or hunting redfish and snook along lush, mangrove encrusted shorelines in any of the state’s fertile backcountry waterways. Concealment: that's the name of the game with camouflage apparel.

If you don’t think blending into your surroundings is a benefit, step off a skiff and stalk a school of tailers’ on a crystal-clear flat just a few inches deep, because if you can see the fish you are chasing they can certainly see you. Even when faced with ideal conditions, keen-eyed crustacean-crushers rarely allow even the stealthiest of anglers to approach within casting distance. Large silhouettes are instinctively associated with danger and immediately trigger blow out. You should also consider for a moment that if a sharp-eyed bonefish can pick off a translucent grass shrimp from twenty feet away, don’t you think that same fish could detect a 6-foot tall angler wearing brightly colored clothing sloshing across the same serine flat? From the fish’s perspective, anglers wearing bright clothing probably look like walking billboards flashing “STAY AWAY!...STAY AWAY!”

From a fish's perspective, it's easy to see why camouflage apparel makes perfect sense.

The segment of seasoned vets who are super serious about the sport know that avoiding detection on the shallows means increased shots at viable targets from shorter distances, which clearly translates into greater success against the shallow’s most admired adversaries, regardless if you are a spin fishermen or if you prefer the long stick.

Hunters have been taking advantage of the same benefits for decades and while concealment may be a new idea for anglers, fish, too, have been using camouflage since the beginning of time. In any aquatic environment, inshore or offshore, any time there is a prey/predator situation camouflage and concealment play a huge role. Just think if shrimp and crabs were colored bright yellow rather than natural tones that blend in with their surroundings, there wouldn’t be a single one left!
Camouflage apparel alone will not make you a more successful fisherman. It is simply one more piece to the angling success puzzle. With decreased stocks and increased pressure, fish are getting smarter.

To remain at the top of our game, anglers, too, need to wise up. We need to fish were the fish are and when they are most likely to feed while utilizing the latest tackle and techniques for any particular species under any set of circumstances. And if you are still under the false impression that camouflage has no place in saltwater fishing, think again. It seems like just yesterday when camouflage monofilament fishing line was introduced. Today camouflage apparel is taking the angling community by storm. Tomorrow you may not even be able to see your boat.

Mercury MerCruiser Introduces New, More Powerful Big Block

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 20:44:00 +0000

Mercury MerCruiser have announced the development of the next generation of big-block marine power – a new engine that produces more power and has better mid-range acceleration, lower emissions and superior fuel efficiency.

Mercury MerCruiser engineers in Stillwater, Okla. – drawing on the expertise of the development teams at Mercury Racing – conceived, designed and engineered the new engine with support from Mercury engineers in Fond du Lac, Wis. The next-generation, naturally aspirated big block features high-performance aluminum cylinder heads that improve mid-range acceleration and increase power. High-octane fuel is not required – the engine runs on 87 octane and achieves remarkably low oil consumption.

With boat builder and dealer input in mind, access to service points and connections has been significantly improved to simplify installation and maintenance.“Not only did the team achieve superior performance while adding a catalyst,” said Mercury MerCruisers’ Derric Drake, program manager on the Stillwater-based project, “they maintained fuel efficiency and improved serviceability without adding cost.”

MerCruiser’s next generation of power will be available in sterndrive and inboard configurations with Base and HO ratings. The new models are completely compatible with the host of MerCruiser options, including Axius, SmartCraft, SeaCore and either Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) or Mechanical throttle and shift on the sterndrive models and DTS on the inboard models. It also comes protected by the Guardian system to help prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Source: Mercury Marine

Small Business Administration’s Dealer Floorplan Program Will Need Some Work

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 20:00:00 +0000

Industry leaders are hopeful the Small Business Administration’s dealer floorplan program can help resolve one of the biggest problems facing marine businesses, but they acknowledge the program has kinks that need to be worked out.

“We’re finding a real reluctance on the part of bankers to do this,” says Phil Keeter, president of the Marine Retailers Association of America.

Keeter and others point to two major factors behind the reluctance: complex guidelines set up by the SBA that don’t match the way the marine industry does business, and a lack of understanding on the part of lenders about the industry.

“SBA loans are typically term loans, such as buildings and permanent levels of working capital. Very rarely are they used for transactional lending,” says Tony Wilkinson, president of the National Association of Guaranteed Government Lenders.

Floorplans are transactional because they involve constant cash advances to finance inventory, then payback as it’s sold, then another advance to buy more inventory. This requires lenders to constantly monitor inventory levels.

The SBA program allows dealers to apply for SBA-guaranteed floorplan financing so they can borrow against inventory and increase cash flow. Loans range from $500,000 to $2 million under the SBA 7 (a) loan program. With a maximum repayment term of five years, the loans will come with a 60 to 75 percent government guarantee. The program runs through Sept. 30, 2010.

The MRAA has sent a letter to the SBA asking it to make the following changes:

• allow for application of the program in non-title and title states
• eliminate the $500,000 minimum loan amount
• increase the maximum loan amount to $4 million
• allow SBA loan proceeds to refinance existing or new inventory at the existing lender or for the acquisition or refinancing of inventory at a new lender
• expand the definition of franchise-only dealers, since that business model does not apply to recreational boating
• allow banks to be considered experienced on a case-by-case basis
• be less restrictive on the requirement that dealers provide monthly financial statements

“We’re still plugging away at it,” says Keeter, “and we still have high hopes for it.”

So does the National Marine Manufacturers Association, which worked closely with the retailers and marine bankers to convince the SBA to set up the program

“We really do feel the SBA program is a first step in improving access to credit for dealers,” says Cindy Squires, legislative counsel for the NMMA.

However, she says, dealers have to do their part to find lenders and educate them about the marine industry. “It is going to be a process of educating a lot of regional banks. It’s not going to be a matter of just flipping a switch,” she says.

That’s going to involve relationship-building on the part of dealers — something they haven’t had to do in a number of years, according to Bill Thompson, a former sales manager with KeyBank who earlier this year founded Cleveland-based Cardinal Points Network. The firm helps the marine and RV industries attract and manage commercial floorplan lenders. He’s trying to improve access to financing by building relationships among dealers, manufacturers and lenders.

“Over the last 15 years the industry became very comfortable,” Thompson says.

Wholesale lenders like KeyBank, Textron and GE knew the industry so well they were able to streamline the application process for dealers. The problem now, he says, is that dealers don’t know how to communicate with banks.

“You have to relearn the art of having a relationship with a bank and see on their terms what it takes to secure financing,” says Thompson.

For more on this issue, see the September issue of Soundings Trade Only

Bayliner Receives Three 2009 CSI Awards For Excellence in Customer Satisfaction

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Bayliner Boats has announced that for the second year in a row, Bayliner will receive three prestigious Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awards from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the leading association of the recreational boating industry.

Photo Credit: Bayliner

The NMMA’s Marine Industry CSI program recognizes marine manufacturers whose pursuit of excellence and continuous improvement earns them overwhelming customer support. Matching its performance in 2008, Bayliner received 2009 awards in the following categories: deckboats, sterndrive bowrider boats, and sterndrive cuddy and express boats.

Photo Credit: Bayliner

Companies must actively measure customer satisfaction for award consideration by the NMMA. Upwards of 60,000 consumers participated in the industry-wide 2009 CSI Awards surveys. To receive its three awards, Bayliner achieved customer satisfaction ratings of 90 percent or higher over the past year. Customer satisfaction is measured independently, and based on information provided by all consumers who bought a new Bayliner between April 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009.

Photo Credit: Bayliner

“This year’s Marine Industry CSI Award recipients are at the forefront of our industry’s growth potential and are helping ensure the experience of purchasing and owning a boat add value to the overall enjoyment of the boating lifestyle,” said NMMA president Thom Dammrich.

Photo Credit: Bayliner

Bayliner’s impressive repeat performance is the latest in its long history of winning over customers. The company has received several CSI awards in recent years, including sterndrive bowrider and deckboat awards as well as an award in the fiberglass outboard category.

“These awards are not just a reflection on the quality of our products,” said Jeff Behan, president of Bayliner. “They also validate the fine work and exemplary customer service of our dealers. We couldn’t be happier with their effort to promote and support the Bayliner brand.”

The NMMA will acknowledge Bayliner and the other CSI Award recipients during the 2009 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX), Oct. 12 - 14 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Source: Brunswick