Sarles Boatyard and Marina

Benjamin E. "Pop" Sarles opened up shop in 1907. With little more than a wish and a prayer, the former professional boxer hoped like hell to keep his new boatyard afloat. That year, the stock market fell nearly 50% from it's peak in 1906, and there were numerous runs on banks. Its cause was a credit crunch that began on Wall Street and spread across the nation, leading to the closing of banks and businesses. The Panic of 1907 was a financial crisis that sharply depressed the manufacturing sector and underscored the need for banking reform, later accomplished by the creation of the Federal Reserve System in 1913.

More than 100 years later, Debra Smith, owner of Sarles Boatyard & Marina, understands recessionary times. It's getting harder for any business to make money. But the sector hardest hit by this recession might be the small business marine sector. With less money in pocket than bigger businesses and a shrinking customer base, it's getting more and more difficult for smaller businesses to keep it's head above water. But Smith has a bright outlook on the situation. She's thinking forward. "The country has been here before and bounced back," she said. "I intend to do things differently too."

"A happy customer assures a steady stream of revenue plus the most powerful marketing tool - word of mouth," she explained. To that end, Sarles is adjusting to the challenge. Customer's will soon see:

Expanded service hours -- Sarles will also be open on weekends during peak boating season with access to the travelift and railway.
Enhanced customer communications, including: a drop box at the office door for 24-hour customer convenience; improved yard signage; and a blog to communicate new services and events at Sarles.

Smith has also brought on Tom Weaver, founder and managing partner of Weaver Price Design as a management and marketing advisor. Weaver's firm owns Eastport Yacht Company which designed and developed the Eastport 32.

"I'm excited to be part of the Sarles' team," said Weaver. "Right now, the service side of the marine industry is booming and this opportunity gives me the chance to help Deb and the gang continue serving the bay's boating community with a smile."

"With the team that's already in place," said Smith, "Tom's expertise will help ensure Sarles maintains and builds customer relations."

Sarles continues to provide the following on-site services:

Yacht Brokerage - Bob Pierce of Sarles Boatyard Yacht Sales, LLC
Electronic Services - Andy Fegley's Yacht Electronic Systems, LLC
Outboard Services - Mike Altiere of Mike's Marine Services, Inc.
Inboard Gas/Diesel Repair - Stephen F. Maloy Marine Services, Inc.
Yacht Restoration, Custom Boats & Cabinetry - Bill Donohue & Dave Hannam of Annapolis Classic Watercraft, LLC
Power Boat Rentals - Erin Harrington of Annapolis Small Boat Rentals
Kayak Rentals by the Hour, 1/2 Day or Full Day
Custom Shrink Wrapping

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About Sarles

Sarles Boatyard & Marina, at 808 Boucher Ave, has served the boating community for more than 100 years by providing complete repairs, engine work and wooden boat restoration. They also boast the only marine railway in Annapolis, covered yacht storage, dockage and an on-site yacht brokerage (www.yachtworld.com/sarles). To reach Sarles Boatyard & Marina please call 410-263-3661 or email deb@sarlesboatyard.com.