The NMBA recently released its 2007 Annual Report/2006 Marine Finance Market Summary, which provides the most comprehensive 2006 marine financing data available anywhere in the United States. Among its major findings, the survey reports the average size of boat loans increased in 2006 over the previous years’ total, while the volume of marine loans originated last year was down for the entire 12-month period. Delinquency and charge-off activity also trended slightly downward in 2006.

Valuable demographic information is likewise revealed in the annual survey. Findings indicate the majority of boat loan customers—more than 80 percent—continue to range in age from 35 to 54 years old. Nearly 40 percent of borrowers in 2006 reported an annual household income between $50,000 and $100,000; only slightly more than 12 percent of borrowers reported earning $500,000 or more.

NMBA’s Annual Report collects current information on marine lending performance as well as marine industry trends, and is the only one of its kind in existence. It provides useful data by which marine lending companies can benchmark themselves against others in the industry.

Beginning next year, Marine Industry Certified Dealerships are entitled to reap a number of added benefits through participation in the 23 consumer boat shows owned and produced by the NMMA — including special show signage, “Certified” designation on boat show websites and in event directories, and free tickets to give their current and potential customers.

Certified Dealerships exhibiting at NMMA-owned and produced shows will have special signage posted outside their respective booths identifying them as such and briefly explaining what the Certified designation means. These dealerships will also be recognized in each show directory with the official Marine Industry Certified logo and receive listings on each show website, with a direct link to the dealership’s own web page.

Additionally, each Marine Industry Certified Dealership will receive 50 free tickets to the show(s) in their local market, which they can then distribute to current and perspective customers.

Dealership Certification provides both consumer and dealer benefits fundamental to the industry’s Grow Boating Initiative.

MATES has formally endorsed the Partners Standard Protocol (PSP) as a best practice model for the transaction standards supported by the initiative.

PSP is an agreement among Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), aftermarket companies and dealer management system providers regarding the exchange of business transaction information, with a current focus on parts orders, pricing and availability checks, product registrations and warranty claims. Additional transaction types will be added as prioritized by industry users. PSP allows dealers to transact business with suppliers entirely from within their Dealership Management System (DMS).

MATES is working to unite the marine industry by developing, implementing and supporting a common set of non-proprietary communication and data exchange standards. MATES’ ultimate goal is to create an environment where people and companies in the industry can focus on value-added activity by reducing IT burdens and eliminating system incompatibility, making it easier for companies to transact business with one another.

The NMMA, along with more than 50 of its boat- and engine- manufacturer members, submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding a proposed rule that will likely result in the recreational marine industry’s largest regulatory action.

The proposed EPA rule, officially titled “Control of Emissions from Non-road Spark Ignition Engines and Equipment,” impacts boatbuilders, gasoline engine manufacturers (both outboard and inboard/sterndrive), personal watercraft (PWC) and jet boat manufacturers, and manufacturers of marine generators. Comments from a number of concerned industry representatives—including boatbuilders, engine manufacturers, marine trade groups and members of Congress—were received by the August 3 deadline and will be heavily considered as EPA weighs arguments on all sides of the proposed rulemaking.

The rule, once finalized, will require new exhaust emission standards for all classes of gasoline-powered marine engines and, for the first time in history, impose evaporative emission standards on recreational boats.

The 19th annual San Diego Boat Show was recently honored by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) with its 2007 Silver Anvil Award, recognizing excellence in strategic public relations planning and implementation. The award was presented to representatives of the NMMA, show owner and producer, and c3 Communications Inc., the event’s PR provider, in New York City.

This is the second time NMMA and c3 have been nationally recognized by PRSA for the public relations work on the San Diego Boat Show. PRSA awarded the organizations with a Silver Anvil in 2005.

Considered the top national award for the public relations industry, NMMA and c3 were honored out of 855 national entries—beating out national PR firms, Fortune 500 companies and service organizations and associations from across the country—for their public relations work on the San Diego Boat Show. This year’s Silver Anvil competition was one of the toughest in history, as PRSA received the largest amount of entries on record.

c3 has been promoting the San Diego Boat Show for nearly seven years. The media campaign c3 and the local San Diego Boat Show team executed was recognized by the judges for its innovation, strategy and flawless execution. Additional comments from judges cited accolades for the amount of publicity achieved by a lean PR team with a limited budget that translated into such measurable results and garnering more than 120 TV hits, 98 print hits and 75 radio hits placed solely by PR during the engagement.

The NMMA Marine Data Exchange (MDX) program recently added support for a sixth data standard for communication within its e-commerce network.

The 997 functional acknowledgement is used by a supplier to confirm electronically a purchase order has been received from a buyer. Conversely, the buyer can use the standard to confirm a ship notice or invoice was received from their supplier. The standard can also communicate if a document was rejected, and provide clues to the reason.

MDX is a cost-effective, electronic data interchange (EDI) system used to trade formatted business documents. Developed by NMMA and the National Marine Distributors Association (NMDA), it facilitates trading of purchase orders, order acknowledgements, advance ship notices and invoices over the internet.

The program is available to all marine industry accessory manufacturers, distributors, retailers and boatbuilders, regardless of size. The web-based version of MDX is designed to allow smaller companies with limited IT resources to leverage the benefits of e-commerce.

As a means of stimulating sales and providing additional opportunities for businesses in the sailing industry, the NMMA and Sail America are launching a new “Sailfest” venture at two upcoming NMMA consumer boat shows: The Virginia In-Water Boat Expo, taking place September 14-16; and the Baltimore Boat Show, being held January 23-27, 2008.

In addition to adding the “& Sailfest” tag to the end of boat show titles, the updated show format will feature a mini Strictly Sail show including: Sailboats, gear and accessories; sailing seminars; and other special sailing-related events. The Sailfest shows will be marketed to attract sailors in both the Norfolk, Virginia and Baltimore regions and complement existing show advertising to promote the two events.

“Sailfest was created as a response to boat show attendees asking to see more sailboats at shows where powerboats were primarily featured, as well as a strong desire on the part of exhibitors seeking ways to get their products in front of a larger audience” explains Kevin Murphy, national show manager for Sail America and the Strictly Sail events. “The overall goal of adding a more sail-focused component to these two events is simply to expose Sail America members’ products to more potential buyers.”

Murphy says the Virginia and Baltimore events are test cases for the Sailfest show. If the concept proves successful, the plan is to incorporate additional sail-focused components into future NMMA-produced consumer boat shows and events.

Later this month, the Marine Industry Dealership Certification program will launch its first-ever internet advertising and marketing campaign aimed at consumer audiences. The campaign is intended to raise consumer awareness of Dealership Certification and highlight the many benefits of doing business with a Marine Industry Certified Dealership.

CHICAGO - The NMMA recently announced recipients of the annual 2007 Marine Industry CSI Awards. A total of 64 boat and engine manufacturers—a new record-high—were recognized for excellence in customer satisfaction, as part of NMMA’s Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) program.

Award recipients will be formally acknowledged during the annual Industry Awards Breakfast at the 2007 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX), taking place October 10-12 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

The Marine Industry CSI Awards program honors participating companies actively measuring customer satisfaction to pursue continuous improvement. Award recipients achieved and maintained an independently-measured standard of excellence of 90 percent or higher in customer satisfaction over the past year, based on information provided by consumers purchasing a new boat or engine during the period between April 2006 and March 2007. Participating manufacturers must survey all new boat buyers during this period. To allow low volume manufacturers the opportunity to participate in the awards program, a minimum of 25 consumer responses are required to quality.

The following companies were honored this past year for their efforts to increase customer satisfaction levels in the boating industry:

ALBEMARLE BOATS

Inboard Fishing Express Boats

AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.

Outboard Engines

BENETEAU USA

Sailboats

BENNINGTON MARINE

Pontoon Boats

BOSTON WHALER

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

CABO YACHTS

Inboard Flybridge Sedans & Convertible Boats

CAMPION MARINE INC.

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

CARVER YACHTS

Inboard Motor Yachts & Trawlers

CENTURY BOATS

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

CHAMPION BOATS

Fiberglass Bass Boats

CHRIS-CRAFT

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

Sterndrive Cuddy Express Boats

COBALT BOATS

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

Sterndrive Cuddy Express Boats

COBIA BOATS

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

CORRECT CRAFT

Inboard Watersport Boats

CRUISERS YACHTS

Inboard Express Cruiser Boats

Inboard Motoryachts & Trawlers

Sterndrive Cuddy Express Boats

EBBTIDE BOATS

Deck Boats

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

EDGEWATER BOATS

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

FISHER BOATS

Aluminum Outboard Boats

FOUR WINNS

Deck Boats

Inboard Express Cruiser Boats

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

Sterndrive Cuddy Express Boats

G3 BOATS

Aluminum Outboard Boats

GLACIER BAY BOATS

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

GLASTRON

Deck Boats

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

GRADY-WHITE BOATS INC.

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

GRAND BANKS

Inboard Express Cruiser Boats

HARBERCRAFT BOATS

Aluminum Outboard Boats

HARRIS FLOTEBOTE

Pontoon Boats

HONDA MARINE

Outboard Engines

HURRICANE

Deck Boats

HYDRA-SPORT

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

INDMAR PRODUCTS

Inboard Engines

ISLAND PACKET YACHTS

Sailboats

KAYOT

Deck Boats

LARSON

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

Sterndrive Cuddy Express Boats

MANITOU PONTOON BOATS

Pontoon Boats

MASTERCRAFT

Inboard Watersport Boats

MAVERICK BOATS

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

MCKEE CRAFT BOATS

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

MOOMBA BOATS

Inboard Watersport Boats

PALM BEACH MARINECRAFT

Pontoon Boats

PARTI KRAFT

Pontoon Boats

PATHFINDER

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

PRO-LINE BOATS INC.

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

PURSUIT BOATS

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

RAMPAGE SPORT FISHING YACHTS

Inboard Fishing Express Boats

REGAL MARINE

Deck Boats

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

Sterndrive Cuddy Express Boats

REGULATOR MARINE

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

SAILFISH BOATS

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

SEA RAY BOATS

Deck Boats

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

Inboard Express Cruiser Boats

Inboard Flybridge Sedans & Convertible Boats

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

Sterndrive Cuddy Express Boats

SEASWIRL BOATS

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

Sterndrive Cuddy Express Boats

SEDONA MARINE

Pontoon Boats

SKEETER PRODUCTS INC.

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

STARCRAFT MARINE

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

STINGRAY BOATS

Sterndrive Bowrider Boats

STRATOS BOATS

Fiberglass Bass Boats

SUPRA BOATS

Inboard Watersport Boats

SWEETWATER

Pontoon Boats

SWEETWATER TUSCANY

Pontoon Boats

TIARA YACHTS

Inboard Express Cruiser Boats

Inboard Fishing Express Boats

TIGE BOATS

Inboard Watersport Boats

TRIUMPH BOATS

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

VOLVO PENTA OF THE AMERICAS

Sterndrive Engines

WELLCRAFT MARINE

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

WORLD CAT

Fiberglass Outboard Boats

YAMAHA MOTOR CORPORATION USA

Outboard Engines

CHICAGO, IL - The NMMA is currently accepting nominations for the 24th Annual Alan J. Freedman Memorial Leadership Award. The award, sponsored by NMMA’s Accessory Manufacturers Division (AMD) Board of Directors, honors the memory of Freedman, a former NMMA Shows Committee chairman and active association member who helped found the association in 1979.

It will be presented this year during the 2007 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), taking place October 10-12 in Miami.

The Freedman Award recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the marine industry through leadership, creativity and personal motivation.

Recent past recipients of the award include:

• George Bellwoar, Perko Inc. (2006)
• James W. Taylor, Taylor Made Group Inc. (2005)
• Bob Selig, Davis Instruments (2004)

Carefree, AZ - Dining by the Sea is an exciting online catalog offering upscale accessories to those who have an appreciation for quality and a penchant for dining and entertaining by the sea.

This is a lively and growing market segment today. The baby-boom generation is investing a great deal of money on gourmet food markets, luxury items and vacations homes by the sea, according to publications such as Coastal Living, Gourmet, Travel and Leisure, and Food and Wine. While some retailers offer similar "lifestyle" products under cooking and kitchen accessories, Dining by the Sea products are completely focused on the romantic notion of seaside dining.

The online catalog reflects the founders' passion for two of life's essentials. "I love preparing gourmet meals for friends and family and my favorite place to do that is by the sea," says CEO Pamela Weaver. "We've had great picnics for 18 on the Oregon coast, intimate gatherings on the balcony of our beach house - even squeezed eight for dinner into the cockpit of our motor yacht. The sea just seems to awaken flavorings and seasonings you can't find on the spice rack."

Weaver is a gourmet cook who has studied at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa. She is also an Allied ASID interior designer with thirty-plus years experience in kitchen and home design.

Whether it's a picnic for two by a gently rolling surf, a formal dinner on a seaside terrace or a gathering on the fantail of a yacht, Dining by the Sea offers everything you need to plan a delightful dining experience on or beside the water.

Two prime players in the marine and outdoors promotions markets have announced the merging of their businesses, effective immediately. Both based in Gurnee, Illinois, The Jerry Martin Company has joined forces with Martin Flory Group. The resulting "new" company becomes the world’s largest public relations agency specializing in the marine and outdoors industries.

Laura Martin, president and owner of Martin Flory Group, and Jerry Martin, head of Jerry Martin Co., jointly made the announcement. With this move, the two agencies reunite, after operating as separate firms for the last five years. Future operations will continue to be administered by Kelly Flory, general manager of Martin Flory Group.

The move also marks several anniversaries within the company. Originally formed by Jerry Martin in 1962, Martin Flory Group is now celebrating 45 years in business. 2007 also marks the 25th anniversary with the agency of Martin’s daughter, Laura. Industry involvement has been important throughout the firm’s history. The company has been a member of NMMA (and its predecessors) for 45 years, OWAA for 42 years, MRAA for 35 years and BWI for decades. In addition to publicity services, they have also served as director of NMRA for the past 8 years.

"We are delighted to be able to bring our operations together again," said both Martins in a joint statement. "It will help us sharpen our focus, to provide even greater PR service to our joint client group."

It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of our founder, Jerry Martin. Jerry died peacefully at home, June 2007. He had been ill for some time, but continued to find energy in the activities of his beloved marine industry.

Jerry started in the boating business in 1955, as Johnson Motors' first sales promotion manager. He recognized a need for a liaison between manufacturers and boating magazine editors, and founded Jerry Martin Company in 1962, today celebrating 45 years in business. He also experimented with marine retailing by building Johnson's hometown dealership, The Boat Show and Camping Center, in Gurnee, Illinois in 1964.

This led to a life-long passion for carving out a well-deserved place in the industry for retailers. He was among the founders of the Marine Retailers Association of America, and served proudly as Director of Development for many years.

When the Outdoor Writers Association of America was re-energized in the mid-1960s, he served as a financial liaison to put the organization on firm footing. He was recognized for his dedication to the industry many times over the years. Of special importance to him was the Irv Rosenthal Award from MRAA. He also received the Mel Barr Award from the National Marine Representatives Association. As one of the earliest charter members of Boating Writers International, he was awarded a Lifetime Membership in 1997, one of only 6 individuals to earn this distinction.

He also found great reward in traveling the world as a quasi-ambassador for boating. Jerry was instrumental in the first boat show to take place in Malaysia, as well as exhibiting at the first Shanghai show. He was a true fixture on the international marine scene.

Jerry and his daughter Laura had just announced the merger of their PR businesses the previous day, an event that brought great joy to both. He relished some of the early congratulations.

Jerry was 79 years old. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Barbara, his 7 children, 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Services are pending.

The Massachusetts Marine Trades Educational Trust (MMTET) is proud to announce that the Massachusetts recreational marine trades are the recipient of a $585,000 State Workforce Competitive Trust Fund Grant. Commonwealth Corporation, a division of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce development, featured the ‘Jobs in Boating’ grant award June 7 at a ceremony at Massasoit Community College (MCC) in Brockton, MA.

The Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF) is a program designed to assist ‘critical and emerging’ industries in the Commonwealth to meet their workforce needs, including the solution to workforce issues in these industries. The recreational marine trades in MA have long suffered from a shortage of skilled workers, particularly technicians to build, ‘prep’, maintain, and service boats and marine engines. In addition, the WCTF was established by the State Legislature to enable a broad range of residents, including the aged, at-risk youth, under-skilled persons and under-served minorities to acquire education and skills necessary to move toward economic self-sufficiency through jobs and career opportunities.

In early May, the States Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) presented its most prestigious award, the SOBA Congressional Award, to Congressman James L. Oberstar (D-Minn.) during a small ceremony held in conjunction with the 2007 American Boating Congress (ABC) in Washington, D.C.

SOBA President Terry Boyd (Alabama) and Past President Larry Killien (Minnesota) presented the award to Rep. Oberstar in recognition of his many years of service, dedication and support of boating access. Through his support, the State of Minnesota was able to develop the Lake Superior Safe Harbor Program, as well as fund and develop quality access facilities. The Safe Harbor Program provides boaters and anglers the opportunity to access and use Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world.

“Congressman Oberstar has been instrumental in working to ensure adequate funding and support of boating access not only in Minnesota, but also throughout the U.S. and its territories,” Killien said during the presentation ceremony. “It was an honor for me to nominate you and be able to present to you SOBA’s most prestigious award. On behalf of boaters and anglers everywhere, I thank you.”

Oberstar began representing Minnesota's Eighth Congressional District in Congress in 1975, and is now in his 17th term, the longest service in the U.S. House of Representatives from the state. He currently serves as Chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The committee has jurisdiction over: America's surface transportation; freight and passenger rail; the inland waterway system (including the St. Lawrence Seaway); international maritime commerce; the Economic Development Administration; the U.S. Corps of Engineers' support of the nation's water resources; and the Federal Clean Water Program.

Formed in 1986 by a small group of state boating officials, SOBA was designed to promote the acquisition, development and administration of recreational boating facilities nationwide. Membership in the organization has now expanded to all 50 states and five territories, and includes not only state boating officials but also consultants, engineering firms, manufacturers, suppliers, publishers and other businesspersons interested in boating access.

The HIA recently elected officers and welcomed new members to its Board of Directors. Officers are elected to serve one-year terms (March 2007 through March 2008), while Board members serve two (March 2007 through March 2009).

Members of the 2007-2008 HIA Board of Directors include:

• Pat Duggan, Merrimac Marine Insurance
• Matt Harvey, Fun Country Marine
• Sheldon Graber, Destination Yachts
• Shawn Heinen, Thoroughbred Houseboats
• Greg Kyllo, Twin Anchors Marine
• Steve Lochmueller, Sumerset Houseboats
• Mark Suttie, Aramark/Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas and
• Tom Sutherland, Westerbeke Corporation

Harvey was elected HIA Chairman of the Board, and Duggan was named Vice Chairman. Charlie Game of IMCA became an Ex-Officio Board member for 2007-2009.

“As the new HIA Chairman, I intend to further incorporate houseboating into Grow Boating Initiative (GBI) efforts,” says Harvey. “We’re looking forward to being partners with GBI and plan to be fully integrated into the Grow Boating and Discover Boating programs. Keeping houseboating in the forefront of people’s recreational boating options is a major goal of HIA moving forward.”

The Marine Industry Dealership Certification program will begin hosting its fall series of regional Certification Launch Workshops this August. Attendance at a one-day Launch Workshop is required for all dealerships the initial year of Certification. During the Workshop, program requirements are explained in detail and dealerships are provided with tools necessary to complete the Dealership Certification process.

Upcoming Launch Workshops dates, posted on DealerCertification.org, include:

Chicago IL – One-third (73 million) of U.S adults went boating in 2006, a participation increase of approximately 1.3 million Americans from the 2005 total (71.3 million), according to findings from the NMMA 2006 Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, released today by the association. The Abstract highlights boating sales and participation numbers complied on behalf of the recreational boating industry throughout calendar year 2006.

Coinciding with the increase in boater participation, the Abstract also reveals the number of boats in use increased to nearly 18 million, and boat registrations surpassed 13 million for the first time since 2001. What’s more, the industry grew to an all-time high of $39.5 billion in U.S. sales and services in 2006, a six percent increase from the previous year.

“We are excited to see boater participation increase to 73 million because it reinforces our belief that more and more people are finding out that getting out on the water is one of the best ways to relax, have fun and enjoy time with friends and family,” says Thom Dammrich, NMMA president. “We are proud of the contribution the boating industry and boat owners make to the U.S. economy and the marine industry is dedicated to sharing the fun and relaxation of being on the water with as many people as possible.”

While total boat unit and dollar sales were up more than five percent—buoyed by growth in ski/wakeboard boats, personal watercraft, canoes and kayaks—the traditional powerboat segment saw a decrease in unit sales of nearly five percent to 291,900 total units in 2006.

“Though new powerboat sales were down slightly, the increase in boating participation bodes well for better sales in the years ahead,” says Dammrich. “We anticipated flat to slightly down powerboat sales as higher interest rates and the malaise in the housing market impacted consumer confidence throughout the year.”

Total new boat dollar sales edged upward two percent to $11.5 billion, reflective of an overall increase in the price of traditional powerboats, which also increased two percent to $9.6 billion. NMMA attributes these increases to a rise in production costs for manufacturers, including the escalating price of petroleum-based inputs and efforts to develop cleaner, more fuel-efficient engine technology.

“These increases clearly demonstrate boating is well within the reach of average Americans, allowing them an opportunity to make life long memories with their families aboard a boat,” says Dammrich. “The Grow Boating Initiative is now in its second year, and we believe it will further increase sales in 2008, 2009 and beyond by demonstrating to would-be boaters the many lifestyle benefits of spending time on the water.”

Latitude Industries Inc. (PINKSHEETS: LTDI), announces today that it will be exhibiting at The South Florida Boat Show in sunny Miami Beach, Florida from June 8-11, 2007.

The South Florida Boat Show, situated in The Miami Beach Convention Center with over 250,000 square feet of exhibit space, will showcase about 350 boats, and over 100 exhibitors from around the country.

In a statement, the organizers of the event expressed that they are delighted to feature Latitude Powerboats, a Miami-based company that manufactures some of the finest center console and offshore fishing boats available in the industry. Latitude will be displaying their Latitude 28 SS and 35 SS at their exhibit booth situated in area D-23. With over 1500 square feet of show space, Latitude is sure to get noticed.

With the summer season right around the corner, this show attracts many highly motivated "buy-now-type" customers. "We are convinced that sales will be generated from this show," stated Jonathan Giner, Director of Sales and Marketing.

Carolina Hernandez added that production at Latitude has been running steady on our 28 and 35 models; "We have boats built and ready to deliver in a short period of time," she said.

The NMMA and Boating Writers International (BWI) have announced judges for the 2007 MAATS Innovation Awards, presented during the Marine Aftermarket Accessories Trade Show (MAATS) in Las Vegas on Thursday, July 19.

The Innovation Awards judges’ panel is comprised of BWI members who perform product testing throughout the year and have specific expertise in marine accessories. Judges are selected to participate on the panel by the BWI Innovation Awards Committee, directed by Zuzana Prochazka. Serving as judges for this year’s MAATS Innovation Awards are:

• Jan Mundy (Innovation Awards Chair), editor, DIY Boat Owner magazine
• Jim Barron, technical editor, Trailer Boats magazine
• Mark Corke, editor, Boatworks and SAIL magazines
• Scott Croft, assistant editor, BoatU.S. Magazine
• Alan Jones, executive editor, Boating World magazine
• Zuzana Prochazka, writer, Latitudes & Attitudes magazine
• Alan Wendt, editor, Marine CEO magazine

“We selected a mixture of qualified boating journalists from different publications and varied areas of expertise to sit on the 2007 MAATS Innovation Awards judges’ panel,” says Mundy, who was recently named Innovation Awards chair for the MAATS program and will lead the judges’ panel during its deliberations and product discussions.

NMMA and BWI will recognize up to nine new products, plus one Environmental Award at this year’s MAATS. Exhibiting companies can submit products for consideration in the following categories until Friday, June 22:

• Interior Parts (seating, lighting, galley, plumbing, electrical, ventilation)
• Aftermarket Electronics, Electrical Equipment, Instrumentation, Navigation Equipment (including software)
• Boat Care, Coatings, Chemicals, Maintenance Tools
• Deck Equipment (rigging, rope, docking and anchoring equipment, boat covers, canvas work, mooring gear)
• Propulsion Parts, Propellers (engine equipment, trim tabs, engine maintenance, trolling motors, engine oils, other engine maintenance products)
• Personal Gear, Soft Goods
• Safety Products (all safety products that can be added aftermarket)
• Trailers, Parts & Accessories
• Water Sports & Equipment (fun, non-safety products, dinghies, inflatables, fishing products)

In its seventh year as the premier gathering for the accessories aftermarket, the 2007 installment of MAATS brings together more than 350 exhibitors displaying products in the Las Vegas Convention Center July 18-20. A MAATS Welcome Reception will be held for all attendees and exhibitors on the evening of Tuesday, July 17, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. just outside the show floor. And returning for a second consecutive year is the MAATS Silent Auction, held as part of the opening night event. All proceeds collected from the auction go to benefit the industry’s Grow Boating Initiative.

Once again, MAATS will continue its long-standing association with the National Marine Distributors Association’s S.T.E.P. Conference, being held July 16-17 at the Las Vegas Hilton. Other popular features returning to this year’s event include Buyer-Supplier Meetings, where accessory suppliers have an opportunity to meet buyers in a private setting to discuss new products, and New Product Previews, which give exhibitors a forum to introduce new products to an attentive group of more than 150 invited buyers and media representatives.

Florida’s Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa near Jacksonville is the site for National Marine Bankers Association’s (NMBA) 28th Marine Lending Conference, taking place September 30-October 2. NMBA’s Conference Committee, co-chaired by Peggy Bodenreider of GE Money and NMBA Director Emeritus Don Mattocks, selected the venue based on its facilities, comfortable meeting space, attractive lodging rates, easy travel accessibility, exceptional golf courses and nearby attractions.

The Conference will feature business sessions focused on lending issues and concerns, identify opportunities in the coming year, provide an overview of how the boating industry is faring, deliver a useful general economic outlook, and update industry promotional efforts available to attendees. It highlights networking with colleagues through the traditional golf tourney, planned mixers and side-activities, as well as when the exhibit area is open.

NMBA’s Conference is the annual meeting place for those involved in the marine finance and related service industries and attracts 150-plus participants each year.

Sawgrass is the second largest golf resort in America, with five courses and 99 holes. NMBA’s 11th Golf Tournament, which has been attracting a field of 90 participants in recent years, will use one of the courses that is host to The PGA Tour and Senior PGA Tour, and home of the Players' Championship. For non-golfers, area attractions include historic cities, Walt Disney World and the Daytona Speedway, among others.

With so much to explore during the 16th Annual WoodenBoat Show taking place at Mystic Seaport from June 29 through July 1, visitors should plan to spend the weekend. Luckily, admission to these two great attractions for two consecutive days costs just $17.50 for adults and $12 for children ages 6 to 17!

The 16th Annual WoodenBoat Show will present more than 100 traditional classics and contemporary wooden boats of every type. Large and small; old and new; power, sail, oar and paddle – all will be on display at Mystic Seaport. Everything one needs to outfit their boat will be offered by dozens of national and international manufacturers and distributors. Several daily workshops and demonstrations will provide useful information and diverse skills training. Up to a dozen families and groups will build and launch their own boats throughout the weekend. These are just a few of the exciting offerings available during this year’s show. Many more are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Check the website: TheWoodenBoatShow.com for updates.

While at the show, visitors should also take advantage of all that Mystic Seaport has to offer. They can visit a working shipyard, tour historic tall ships, cruise the Mystic River, explore a re-created 19th-century village, view fascinating exhibits, shop for marine art and learn about stars under the planetarium dome.

Show goers may witness the lost art of wooden shipbuilding in the Henry B. duPont Preservation Shipyard, an awe-inspiring opportunity to watch skilled craftspeople perform skills made nearly extinct by steel and fiberglass. From a visitors’ gallery, the shipyard offers a bird’s eye view of carpenters’ shops, an amazing 85-foot spar lathe, a rigging loft and a large, open area where the Museum’s vessels are brought indoors for repair.

From the world's last wooden whaleship, the Charles W. Morgan, to the last example of early 20th-century New England fishing vessels, the L.A. Dunton, Mystic Seaport’s vessels offer a glimpse of long-past seafaring days. As both a working vessel and historic icon, the Charles W. Morgan is a reflection of America in more ways than we can imagine. During her career as a whaling ship, the Morgan provided employment and investment opportunities for hundreds of people who supplied lubricating and illuminating oil derived from whale blubber. At the end of her whaling career, the Charles W. Morgan took her place as a National Historic Landmark, educational resource, film and media star, and as a porthole into America’s rich and diverse past.

Visitors can get out on the water for rides along the scenic riverfront aboard several other Mystic Seaport vessels. The Breck Marshall, a 20-foot Crosby catboat reproduction; Resolute, a 26-foot, diesel-powered Herreshoff launch and the 1908 steamboat Sabino all offer guided tours. If one prefers being the captain, Mystic Seaport has several small sailboats and pulling boats visitors can rent and pilot themselves.

The streets of the re-created 19th century seafaring village are lined with more than 30 old New England trade shops and businesses. These aren't all replications – most are real historic buildings, transported from locations around New England. And they're home to many bustling maritime trades, from shipsmiths and coopers to woodcarvers and riggers.

Mystic Seaport exhibits do anything but just hang on the wall. The 19th-century has never felt more alive than in the Museum’s formal exhibits and maritime galleries – the nation’s foremost. The newest exhibits explore the evolution of the pleasure yacht; the contributions of African Americans to maritime history; and the Rosenfeld family's legacy of maritime photography. Don't forget the Planetarium, where one can see the stars like never before - in the middle of the day! Additionally, the Maritime Gallery at Mystic Seaport is the nation's foremost gallery specializing in maritime art.

Younger visitors also have a wide variety of opportunities for learning and fun. Kids seven and under can swab the deck, move cargo, cook in the galley, dress in sailors’ garb and even sleep in ships’ bunks in the Children’s Museum. In the Discovery Barn, designed especially for kids ages 8 and up, parents and kids can explore interactive computer exhibits, furl a sail, or learn to tie sailor's knots. The playscape area, surrounded by mulch for safety and benches for parents and caregivers, offers a sailing ship, lobster boat, and fishing dragger designed just for kids to climb around and explore.

Overnight and weekend fishing is about to become much more comfortable thanks to the introduction of the model 360, a pure fishing machine with overnight accommodations for 4 or 6. This 36' Power Catamaran sports a 14' beam and massive 100-gallon circular bait tank. Powered by twin Yanmar 315hp diesel engines, it can reach top speeds in the 40's and cruise in the mid 30's, with double the fuel economy of similar sized boats.

"We wanted to build a hard-core fishing machine with accommodations for overnight and weekend trips ... not a living room with a balcony to fish from, like so many Express Boats," said Steve Ellis, President of Calcutta Marine. "Having two or three times the deck space of a typical Express Cruiser, this boat has seating and storage for a weekend cruise with family and friends as well."

The NMMA was recently honored with a trio of prestigious 2007 American Inhouse Design Awards by the editors of Graphic Design USA, the premier showcase for inhouse design excellence. NMMA received three Certificates of Excellence in this year’s competition: One for its 2005 NMMA Annual Report; a second for its Media Luncheon Invitation created for the 2006 Marine Aftermarket Accessories Trade Show (MAATS); and a third for the 2007 MAATS Hosted Buyer Invitation.

The American Inhouse Design Awards honor outstanding new work of all kinds, including: Print and collateral; packaging and point-of-purchase; internet and interactive design; broadcast and motion graphics; and corporate identity and logos. The awards recognize exceptional inhouse designers and design teams within corporations, media companies, non-profits and educational and government institutions.

In 2007, the awards program received more than 4,000 entries—a record number for the 40-year-old design competition. Of these 4,000 entries, approximately 15 percent received recognition. The American Inhouse Design Awards are presented by Graphic Design USA and corporate sponsors include AGFA Graphics and The Creative Group.

“It is a real honor for NMMA to receive national recognition for its inhouse design work from a competition of this magnitude,” says Carl Blackwell, NMMA vice president of Marketing & Communications. “The competition pitted NMMA against ‘the best of the best’ from thousands of prestigious associations and ad agencies across the country. Winning these awards is a testament to the talented and creative team of designers we have on staff here at NMMA, and we applaud them for their efforts.”

Chicago IL – Recently the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) signed a proposed rule that, once finalized, will result in the largest regulatory action in the history of the recreational marine industry. The EPA rule, titled “Control of Emissions from Non-road Spark Ignition Engines and Equipment,” impacts boatbuilders, gasoline engine manufacturers (both outboard and inboard/sterndrive) and manufacturers of marine generators. The NMMA is encouraging its members to submit comments to EPA on its proposal by the August 3 deadline.

The effects of EPA’s latest proposal are two-fold, requiring spark ignited (gas) marine engine manufacturers to meet new emission standards beginning in 2009 and boatbuilders to reduce evaporative emissions from boat fuel systems. Under the proposal, outboard and PWC engines will have to be certified to the same stringent exhaust emission standards as will be required by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in 2008. For sterndrive and inboard engines, the EPA rule proposes catalyst-based exhaust emission standards apply beginning in 2009. Boatbuilders will be required to change their fuel systems with requirements for fuel hose, plastic fuel tanks and controlling emissions from the fuel tank vent.

“This is by far the most comprehensive rulemaking ever imposed on the recreational marine industry,” says Thom Dammrich, NMMA president. “It’s not just an engine rule; this proposal directly affects boatbuilders as well as engine manufacturers and will change the way builders design a boat’s fuel system. The entire industry needs to be aware of this ruling and prepare to meet all necessary requirements under the new EPA guidelines.”

This rulemaking culminates nearly a decade of NMMA and industry-wide efforts to work with EPA on several data collection projects related specifically to evaporative emissions and engine emissions, including: The Carbon Canister Diurnal Emission Evaluation; Fuel, Fill and Vent Hose Permeation Emission Test Program; Off-cycle Emission Data Collection Project; and the Fresh and Salt Water Catalyst Test program, funded by EPA, the U.S. Coast Guard and CARB.

“It is very rewarding to be part of an industry that works so closely with government agencies like EPA and the U.S. Coast Guard to create these regulations, which provide cleaner air, improved fuel economy and allow for the creation and development of new products for our customers” says Chuck Rowe, NMMA Chairman and president of Indmar Products Co. Inc.

A public hearing has been scheduled for June 5 in Reston, Va. Members of the NMMA Evaporative Emission Task Force and the Engine Manufacturers Division (EMD) will convene May 14-16 to prepare for the hearing. Written comments are due to EPA by August 3.

Tulsa, OK - Shoreline Boat and RV Repair is opening in Tulsa. Specializing in the repair and detailing of aluminum and fiberglass bass and pleasure boats, RVs, travel trailers, fifth wheels and towing trailers. Shoreline lets customers get back to enjoying the good life…and fast. The average repair time is only five-to-seven days – that’s virtually unheard of in the repair industry!

And because over 90% of boat and RV repairs are covered by insurance, or by the manufacturer’s warranty, the Shoreline staff will take care of all claims and paperwork. Another reason why we are the best in the business!

Conroe TX - Flatstalker®, Inc. the manufacturer of the world’s only self-propelled stand-up fishing craft launches its product to the worldwide market. Its one of a kind craft utilizes patented technology which allows users to either stand or sit while fishing in waters as shallow as 2 inches. This remarkable craft is an innovated and stable alternative for people who fish in kayaks or canoes. For duck hunters, it is the perfect replacement for a hunting blind with camouflage tops and gun port accessories.

The inventor of the Flatstalker, Roy Sanders, who has designed, tested and perfected the Flatstalker for over three years has been fishing the Texas Gulf Coast most of his life. He had always dreamed of building the perfect fishing machine that gave anglers the ability to sit, stand, or sight cast from an elevated platform while still giving the angler the stability, maneuverability, and stalking abilities to fish in areas few crafts could ever access. “I knew I had the perfect fishing craft when I could throw away my wading gear,” Sanders said.

In order to satisfy the growing demand, the “Double Deck” line launched by Yapluka offers owners space and a “quality of life” on board beyond comparison.

Large and spacious owner cabin situated at the front of the main deck so that it has panoramic ocean views, a private terrace and direct access to the private bathroom with hydro-jets and Jacuzzi.

Incredible stability while cruising and mooring.

• Cruising speed: 13 / 14 knots at a consumption 100 L / Hour.
• Sailing speed: between 15 and 20 knots, consumption 0.
• Trifling building price compared to Motor-yacht.

“Double Deck” concept available on YAPLUKA 85”, YAPLUKA 100”, YAPLUKA 115”, YAPLUKA 130”.

Volkswagen Marine is making a splash in the U.S. market with the introduction of their engines. This pond jump for Volkswagen Marine is by way of Ring Power Corporation, a Caterpillar® dealer based out of St. Augustine, Fla. This makes sense, given that a majority of European Volkswagen Marine dealers are Caterpillar dealers, too.

Volkswagen marinized the engines at their Salzgitter, Germany plant with the boating enthusiast in mind. The new Turbocharged Direct Injection engines, particularly the TDI 225-6 model, are without direct competition in power and performance.

The biggest of the SDI/TDI engines available is the 225-6, featuring a dry weight (excluding transmission) of only 717 lbs. This gives a comparative weight advantage of 220 lbs over other diesel marine engines. The TDI 225-6 delivers 225 hp at 4200 rpm, and produces 333 lb-ft of torque at only 2000 rpm. It’s only 36 inches in length, 30 inches in width, and 27 inches in height. Despite all this compacted power, the engines are quiet running thanks to a dual-mass flywheel absorbing transmission and drive vibrations.

If your waters of interest aren’t yet churned, consider the following about the engines:

All were designed with fuel economy in mind, but the V6’s is further increased by the turbocharger with “variable turbine geometry.” That means whether you’re trolling along or pulling a ski-team, you’ll receive maximum propelling power from the engine when you want it and you won’t over boost when you reach top rpm. Another component of the V6 engines is the piezo-controlled injection.

In comparison with a solenoid valve-controlled injection, piezoelectric technology provides several advantages: very short switching times, multiple injections per working cycle, and precisely apportionable injection quantities. One other fun feature is the electric oil extractor pump. This “one touch oil change” keeps the procedure simple and neat.

The ever-efficient, diesel-burning engines provide more power, better nautical mileage, and comply with strict pollution standards. The clean-burn renders the engines virtually smokeless and odorless. The four and five cylinder engines are also biodiesel PME/RME fuel friendly; just remember to check that your hoses and fuel tank are rated for biodiesel too. “Low maintenance” isn’t a phrase boaters may know much about, but the Volkswagen Marine engines are just that. The engineering is excellent and comes with a 24-month/unlimited hour warranty, covering 100 percent of parts and labor during that time. Chuck Lampman, VP of Marine Sales at Ring Power, Tampa, Fla., stated, “As long as the engine is in the planing hull and being used for leisure purposes, you can run the engines twenty-four/seven at full load.”

The National Marine Bankers Association (NMBA) recently approved a change to its by-laws allowing Associate Membership in the organization, and the NMMA has signed on to become NMBA’s first Associate Member.

“NMMA has always been a partner and strong supporter of NMBA and its role in the industry,” says Jim Coburn, NMBA president. “We’re proud to welcome NMMA into our membership ranks and invite other industry groups to follow its lead and become more involved with the association”

In addition to NMMA, several more industry companies have joined NMBA at the Associate level. New NMBA Associate Members are: ABOS Marine Blue Book; Atlantic Boat Documentation Inc.; Butzel Long Attorneys and Counselors; Davis & Company Ltd.; First America Transportation Title Insurance Company; Global Marine Insurance Agency; Harrison Marine Inc.; Lab Marine; Marine Finance Consultants; National Liquidators; and Travelers Insurance.

Associate Members of NMBA receive an Associate Membership Certificate and are entitled to receive all association mailings and communications. Additional benefits include discounts on conference and workshop fees equal to that of full-fledged members and use of the NMBA logo on letterhead, in marketing materials and on websites. Associate Members may also serve on NMBA committees or be committee chairpersons, and a special seat will be reserved on the NMBA Board of Directors.

NMBA encourages companies from all segments of the marine industry to join at the Associate level, including: Marine documentation services; marine recovery agents; marine insurance agencies and companies; marine industry associations; marine surveyors; marine finance software and value publications; admiralty attorneys; marine finance industry consultants; and others, pending NMBA Board approval.

Fourteen more boat dealerships recently became certified under the Grow Boating Initiative’s Marine Industry Dealership Certification program. With the addition of these dealerships, a grand total of 214 marine retail outlets now officially carry the “Marine Industry Certified” designation.

All newly-certified dealerships participated in Marine Industry Dealership Certification Launch Workshops across the country prior to earning their “certified” status and successfully completed an on-site visit.

Newly-certified dealerships are:

• Empire Marine, San Bernadino, CA
• Full Tilt Marine, Grasonville, MD
• Full Tilt Marine, Woodbridge, VA
• G&G Marina Inc., Roach, MO
• Glenn Marine Family Boating Center, Northport, NY
• Ivancic Marine, Cleveland
• Minmar Marine, Sea Isle City, NJ
• Nautica Marine, Georgetown, SC
• Pat’s Boats, Akron, OH
• Schock Boats, Newport Beach, CA
• Sea Ray of Columbia, Irmo, SC
• Sea Ray of Lake Norman, Cornelius, NC
• Sportsman’s Outfitter and Marine, Lee’s Summit, MO
• Texas Marine of Beaumont Inc., Beaumont, TX.

“We salute these dealerships for all the hard work and effort they put forth to become Marine Industry Certified,” says Phil Keeter, vice president of Marine Certification Inc. and president of the Marine Retailers Association of America (MRAA). “This prestigious designation confirms each dealerships’ ongoing commitment to providing the best customer service experience our industry has to offer.”

Dealership Certification actively addresses one of the key factors essential to fostering growth in the marine industry: Customer service. An effective dealership certification program that provides both consumer and dealer benefits is fundamental to the industry’s Grow Boating Initiative. The new Marine Industry Dealership Certification program was developed by dealers, for dealers and focuses on the areas that affect dealership quality—operations, facilities, professional sales/service processes, customer satisfaction and employee training/satisfaction.

The Publicity Club of Chicago (PCC) awarded the NMMA the prestigious Silver Trumpet Award for distinguished achievement in public relations. NMMA and Born Public Relations were specifically recognized for communications efforts on the 2007 Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show.

The Silver Trumpet Award honors distinguished public relations and marketing communications efforts. The award presented to NMMA recognizes outstanding communications strategies for the Overall Show Media Coverage executed around the 2007 Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show. The public relations strategy focused on positioning the Chicago Boat, RV and Outdoors Show as the biggest and best event for outdoor enthusiasts in the Midwest by leveraging the show’s diverse product mix, spokespeople, special features and events.

In addition to comprehensive coverage of the latest boat and RV models on the show floor, media coverage highlighted the show’s family-friendly features, including the First Mate Patch program, Take Me Fishing Center and Captain Kids’ Discovery Point. The First Mate Patch program is a facilitated program designed as an engaging way to educate children on the benefits of outdoor recreation through several learning stations on the show floor.

Making its Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show debut was Captain Kids’ Discovery Point, an interactive exhibit to encourage children to develop interest in water activities, through experience in building model boats, knot tying and boater’s safety. Other exhibit features included designated areas to explore and identify different types of boats, ocean literacy, fishing and conservation.

Also making its first appearance at the 2007 show was the Take Me Fishing Center, developed by NMMA and the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF). Designed for anglers of all skill levels, it featured hands-on activities, technique demonstrations, expert guidance, daily seminars and giveaways.

In an effort to improve Search and Rescue Response the Coast Guard has requested all wireless providers in states other then Alaska to remove the specialized keying sequence, *CG, used to reach the Coast Guard for maritime emergency assistance.

The *CG feature was introduced by some cellular communications companies in the early 1990’s, but never developed into a nationwide service. As wireless providers moved to digital systems, some didn't migrate *CG to the new system and others even lost track of whether or not they were continuing the feature. This patchwork of service is confusing for the mariners who choose to use it, and may, in fact, prevent them from making a timely call for assistance should they find themselves in an area where *CG is not available.

The Coast Guard has found through research and experience that with the multitude of wireless systems and the misalignment of cellular coverage areas with our regions for Search and Rescue response, the use of this specialized service has resulted in misdirection of emergency calls. This has often added significant delays in the Coast Guard response to those calls for assistance.

The one exception to the discontinuance of the *CG specialized keying sequence is the Alaskan cellular phone region. Cell phone companies operating in Alaska all have the *CG feature available, and because the Coast Guard has a single number for routing those emergency calls, the cellular and Coast Guard regions are fully aligned; calls are not missed and can not be misdirected. The *CG feature will remain active in Alaskan waters.

Mariners are encouraged to invest in a VHF-FM radio as their primary means of distress alerting on the water. Communication via VHF-FM radio provides superior alerting capabilities over cellular phones.

A VHF-FM radio provides superior service in a maritime emergency because:

• When a MAYDAY is sent out via VHF-FM radio it is a broadcast, not just one party is receiving the distress call; any nearby boaters can hear the distress call and offer immediate assistance. Cellular phones are point to point; other boaters in the area can not hear the call and consequently will not be able to respond.
  
  
• With the Coast Guard’s Rescue 21 system improvements to the National Distress and Response System (which is monitored by Coast Guard Sector communications centers) coming on line, any call, distress or otherwise, placed over a VHF-FM radio will have an associated line of bearing (LOB). This LOB significantly narrows the area to which Coast Guard or other responders must look to find the boater making the call. In many locations two or more LOB’s will be associated with a call; the intersection of those LOB’s will provide the position of the caller. A cell phone doesn’t do this. If the distressed caller does not know his location it is difficult and time consuming to determine a position through the wireless companies. This is often aggravated by low batteries and poor reception.
  
  
• VHF-FM radios are manufactured today with Digital Selective Calling (DSC). This feature provides the mariner with an emergency feature that will send a distress with the vessel’s information and Global Positioning System (GPS) location at the press of a button. It is important to note that the DSC radio must be properly registered with an MMSI number through Boat US and the radio must be properly interfaced with the GPS in order to send an accurate position to assist emergency responders to respond to the distress.

All maritime boaters should have a VHF-FM radio onboard their vessel to assure any calls of distress are heard immediately. Cell phones should only be used as a secondary means of communications. If the cell phone is the only means of communication available then remember, as with any land based emergency, the number to call rescue personnel is 9-1-1. *CG is no longer available. Have a fun and safe boating season.

Chicago, IL - Beginning January 1, 2008, the State of California will introduce a new, more stringent set of exhaust emission regulations for sterndrive and inboard (SD/I) gasoline marine engines, and the NMMA is encouraging all parties in the SD/I distribution channel—including boatbuilders, engine manufacturers and boat and engine retailers—to understand their individual responsibilities and liabilities associated with the ruling.

Under the new California regulations, the state will require all boats outfitted with gasoline SD/I engines manufactured after January 1, 2008 be equipped with catalyst technology. There are only a few exceptions to this rule; 4.3 liter and 8.1 liter engines manufactured by General Motors (GM will stop producing these models after 2009) and some phased-in Indmar engines (the company began its phase-in program this year) will still have an opportunity to sell these engines un-catalyzed. Engine manufacturers are also required to certify their engines meet the appropriate model year emission standards with the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

Another regulation recently adopted by the State of California, which took effect January 1, 2007, requires boatbuilders (with the exception of those using Indmar engines) to install a low permeation fuel hose between the fuel tank and the engine on boats with engines built after the first of the year. The hose must be marked A1-15. Both the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) fuel systems standard and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1527 fuel hose test methods have been updated to reflect these changes.

California stipulates engine manufacturers must inform boatbuilders when low permeation hose installation is necessary. It then becomes the boatbuilders’ responsibility to install the hose and the dealership’s responsibility to ensure all boats sold in California with SD/I engines built after January 1, 2007 have low permeation fuel hoses attached. Marine retailers may, however, continue selling boats with engines manufactured prior to January 1, 2008, as the CARB regulations do not impose a sales date deadline for regulated SD/I engines.

“It is more critical than ever that boat and engine manufacturers and marine retailers pay attention to these emission regulations,” says McKnight. “Each year, the CARB Enforcement Division issues violations and financial penalties against small engine equipment dealers, automobile dealers and boat dealers selling non-compliant engines. We cannot stress enough how important it is the industry at large comprehends what is expected of it and what the consequences are if these CARB regulations remain misunderstood or ignored.”

Chicago, IL - The NMMA Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) program recently achieved another major milestone—participation of its 100th member. With the recent addition of Southwind Boats of Elkhart, Ind., the program now includes 100 participating boat and engine brands.

“This marks a significant achievement for the NMMA CSI program and all program participants alike,” says Howard Papke, CFO of Pro-Line Boats and chairman of the Marine Industry CSI Steering Committee. “Clearly, the program is growing and the industry has focused its full attention on the importance of taking care of its customers first and foremost.”

“Southwind Boats is serious about customer satisfaction,” says Ron Betzer, director of Customer Service for Southwind. “We launched the brand this past summer to fill a need in this segment for a hybrid in the deckboat/pontoon product categories reflecting our passion for quality, innovative design and best overall consumer value. We plan to achieve the same standard of customer service and CSI recognition as our other brands, including Bennington and Sedona, have in previous years.”

NMMA launched its CSI program in 2001 to provide boat and engine manufacturers with an independently-measured, cost-effective tool to help improve the quality of customer satisfaction in the boating industry. Since the program’s inception, more than 450,000 surveys have been sent out to new boat and engine customers, allowing participating manufacturer companies to monitor customer satisfaction on an ongoing basis, and to benchmark themselves against the industry and their competitors.

In July of 2006, the NMMA CSI program placed expanded Industry Quarterly Customer Satisfaction Data online, making it available to program participants 24 hours a day, seven days a week through www.nmmacsi.com. Program participants can log on using their username and password. The online reporting system provides more detail, better benchmarking data and is easily accessible by all participants.

Chicago, IL – Seven additional boat manufacturers are now officially certified under the NMMA Boat/Yacht Certification program.

The following manufacturers recently earned the “NMMA Certified” designation for their respective products: General Boats, Edenton, N.C.; Mainstream Outdoors, Stillwater, Minn.; Panga, Miami; Sessa Marine, Milano, Italy; and Smoker Craft, Sun Chaser and Sylvan, all of New Paris, Ind.

Certification is an NMMA membership requirement beginning with all products manufactured for model year 2007. To date, 209 NMMA member manufacturers have become NMMA Certified. An additional 163 manufacturer members are currently undergoing the certification process.

While all boats in the United States must meet applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations, boats built by manufacturers participating in the NMMA Certified program must also meet the more comprehensive standards set by the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC). Furthermore, to become NMMA Certified, a boat must pass rigorous third-party inspection to ensure they meet and adhere to all applicable standards, as well as maintain an ongoing, formal Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) program.

The NMMA Certification program covers more than 30 categories of standards, which vary by boat type and size and may include: fuel systems; ventilation; passenger and weight capacity; horsepower capacity; flotation; electrical systems; navigation lights; warning label placement and guidelines; and steering systems.

Chicago, IL - Discover Boating recently unveiled its new creative and 2007 marketing campaign strategies during the Grow Boating All-Industry Update meeting in Miami, before a standing room-only crowd of more than 500 industry stakeholders and marine media.

This year’s campaign kicks off beginning the first week of March and runs through the Memorial Day holiday, largely considered the official start of boating season. The media mix remains relatively steady, incorporating national cable, magazine and internet advertising, but with a few new twists on the successful components of 2006—including new television, print and online creative executions, increased frequency and more value-added opportunities.

Miami Beach, FL - Channel Blade Technologies received accolades when two customer web sites took top honors at last week’s Miami International Boat Show. The awards represented top honors in two of the five categories in the annual North American Marine Industry Web Awards competition.

The Electronic Products Group of the Shakespeare Co., a global leader in RV, outdoor, marine and military antennas, has recently relocated their offices within the company complex.

Effective immediately, the new physical location for the Electronic Products Group is 6111 Shakespeare Rd., Columbia, SC 29223. Phone contact is unchanged at 800-845-7750 or 803-227-1590. Faxes may still be sent to 803-419-3099.

The relocation within the corporate complex puts sales, R & D and military manufacturing under one roof, resulting in improved internal efficiencies.

Chicago, IL - Land ‘N’ Sea Distributing Inc. recently adopted the Marine Data Exchange (MDX) for business to business communication of documents via a standardized internet protocol.

Developed by the NMMA and the NMDA, MDX automates the trade of purchase orders, order acknowledgments, shipment notifications and invoicing between parties on the MDX value added network (VAN). This form of electronic data interchange (EDI) is achieving wider acceptance for enhancing buyer/supplier relationships.

MDX is uniquely positioned as an e-commerce solution developed by the marine industry, for the marine industry. MDX offers an affordable alternative to other trading networks, which charge monthly fees and add costs to every transaction.

Chicago, IL - The NMMA and the International Marine Certification Institute (IMCI) will once again host the CE Certification Seminar, March 19-21 at the Hilton St. Petersburg in St. Petersburg, Fla. The seminar is geared toward boat manufacturers that ship boats or are planning to ship boats to the European Union.

The seminar opens Monday, March 19, with a Welcome Address, followed by a series of presentations explaining basic CE requirements and ISO standards. The opening day’s sessions are intended for individuals and companies new to transporting to the EU and CE Certification. The Tuesday and Wednesday sessions, March 20 and 21, are for audiences both new to and experienced with CE Certification and feature in-depth discussion of topics such as sound assessment, stability, paperwork, and man overboard protections as they relate to CE and ISO requirements.

In an average year, approximately 200 to 250 non-fatal injuries are reported as a result of a person being struck by the propeller and/or propulsion unit of their boat. These non-fatal injuries are life changing. Further -- an additional 25 - 35 deaths are reported each year as a result of these accidents A variety of technologies are available that should be considered by recreational boaters when they are considering means for reducing the risk of propeller-related injuries while boating. An informational brochure is available (www.uscgboating.org) to help boaters understand the risk of propeller injury, and to provide safety tips. Propeller injury avoidance material is included in boating safety courses from the U.S. Power Squadrons, and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, as well as other boating organizations.

Propeller injury avoidance control technologies can be categorized as, guards, alternative propulsion, interlocks, and sensors. Each of these types of technology can be suitable in certain circumstances for particular types of boats. For example, propeller guards may be safely used in some circumstances, but are not universal solutions. In determining the efficacy of a guard device, the operator must consider hull type, propulsion characteristics, and boat operating environment. Other technology such as emergency cutoff switches, or ladder interlocks may be more appropriate for some vessels due to vessel type and usage. Rear-facing video cameras might be more appropriate for larger vessels with restricted fields of vision behind the boat, than for a smaller bow rider, or ski boat.

This article is intended to provide some examples of propeller injury avoidance control technology that boaters may wish to consider. Determination of which control technologies are appropriate to your circumstances can be a complex problem, and the alternatives should be carefully considered. There is no “one-size fits all” control that will successfully eliminate the risk of propeller injuries. Boaters must carefully review the options, and determine for themselves which devices make the most sense to their particular boating experience. Today’s technology can be applied to reduce the risk of propeller injury to recreational boaters.

The following listing of propeller injury control technologies has been gathered from manufacturer provided public source data available on the internet and through marketing information. This is a dynamic field, and some of the listed products may no longer be available. The listing is not all encompassing, and will from time-to-time be edited to make additions, deletions and changes as credible information becomes available. Listing a device below does not explicitly or implicitly imply any level of approval or recommendation by the U.S. Coast Guard. The list is merely being made available as an aid to boaters searching for information related to propeller injury avoidance.

Do not approach within 100 yards of any U.S. naval vessel. If you need to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. naval vessel in order to ensure a safe passage in accordance with the Navigation Rules, you must contact the U.S. naval vessel or the Coast Guard escort vessel on VHF-FM channel 16.

You must operate at minimum speed within 500 yards of any U.S. naval vessel and proceed as directed by the Commanding Officer or the official patrol.

Violations of the Naval Vessel Protection Zone are a felony offense, punishable by up to 6 years in prison and/or up to $250,000 in fines.

The U.S. Department of Transportation issued a reminder today that daylight saving time will begin at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 11, three weeks earlier than in recent years.

Prior to this year, daylight saving time has been observed from the first Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October. As a result of legislation enacted by Congress in 2005, beginning this year daylight saving time will begin the second Sunday of March and end the first Sunday of November. As a result, this year daylight saving time will run from March 11 to Nov. 4.

When daylight saving time begins, clocks will be set ahead one hour, providing an additional hour of daylight in the evening.

Federal law does not require any area to observe daylight saving time. But if a state chooses to observe daylight saving time, it must follow the starting and ending dates set by the law. In those parts of the country that do not observe daylight time, no resetting of clocks is required. Those states and territories include Arizona, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam and the Northern Marianas.

Daylight saving time is a change in the standard time of each time zone. Time zones were first used in the United States in 1883 by the railroads to standardize their schedules. In 1918, Congress made the railroad zones official under federal law and assigned the responsibility for any changes that might be needed to the Interstate Commerce Commission. In the Uniform Time Act of 1966, Congress established uniform dates for daylight saving time and transferred responsibility for the time laws to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation

Chicago, IL – The Trailer Manufacturers Association (TMA) launched the organization’s first-ever website at the beginning of the New Year, which provides useful information for both trailer manufacturers and consumers.

The easy-to-navigate site gives consumers access to helpful information and points to consider when shopping for a boat trailer. For TMA members, an area of the site is specifically designated to allow them access to information which pertains directly to trailer manufacturers and their business, including updates on safety and regulations changes and trailer certification requirements under the NMMA’s Trailer Certification program. The website also features a TMA blog, accessible through the Members-Only section, where association members can comment on issues affecting their segment of the marine industry.

TMA is comprised of trailer and trailer component manufacturers who are committed to industry promotion and use of the latest technical and safety standards. They are actively engaged in promoting safe trailering via consumer literature, owners manuals, related labels and third-party trailer certification. TMA addresses technical standards and state and national regulatory issues for boat trailers through NMMA’s Trailer Certification Committee and through active involvement with other agencies and organizations monitoring trailer safety.

Chicago, IL - All available space is nearly sold out inside the 2007 Dubai International Boat Show’s USA Pavilion. The NMMA is organizing an American Pavilion at this event for the first time since 2001. The Dubai show takes place March 13-17 at the Dubai International Marine Club in Mina Seyahi. To date, approximately 90 percent of space inside the USA Pavilion is accounted for, and an additional 36 NMMA members will participate outside the Pavilion area.

“News of the Pavilion’s near sell-out affirms Dubai is one of the most rapidly-expanding markets of interest in the worldwide recreational marine industry,” says NMMA president Thom Dammrich. “US companies are eagerly taking advantage of this unique growth opportunity.”

More than 250 exhibitors will be on hand for the 14th annual Dubai International Boat Show, showcasing the latest in recreational marine vessels, equipment and accessories from both local and international manufacturers. Approximately 25,000 people attend the event annually, which has quickly become the Middle East’s largest marine industry exhibition. In addition to the USA Pavilion, several other countries host similar displays during the event, including the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Germany, Turkey, Italy, Australia and New Zealand.

For NMMA members who are unable to actively participate at the 2007 Dubai International Boat Show, a literature display area will also be available. Cost to feature literature inside the USA Pavilion is $300 USD.

Chicago, IL - Using data collected from both the Grow Boating Initiative’s Marine Industry Dealership Certification program and the NMMA's Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) program, it was recently confirmed Marine Industry Certified dealerships achieved significantly higher CSI scores in 2006 than those attained by non-certified dealerships. Additionally, Marine Industry Certified dealerships were also found to have improved their CSI ratings at a faster pace than their non-certified counterparts.

According to 2006 industry data, “Overall Satisfaction with Dealer” ratings from consumers who purchased new boats from a Marine Industry Certified dealership averaged 93.7 percent, versus a rating of 86.6 percent from consumers who purchased new boats from non-certified dealerships carrying manufacturer brands that measure CSI. Additionally, when comparing CSI scores from 2006 with the previous year, it was revealed dealerships earning Marine Industry Certified status improved their “Overall Satisfaction” ratings by more than double—an average of 1.2 points for certified dealerships compared to just a 0.5 point improvement among non-certified dealerships. These figures are based on dealership CSI scores recorded among nearly 100 boat brands participating in the NMMA CSI program. The gap between CSI scores and CSI improvement is likely much larger among non-certified dealerships without access to CSI measurements. Access to CSI measurement is one of the requirements of Marine Industry Dealership Certification.

“The Dealership Certification program is clearly showing measurable, positive results for participants that will lead to increased sales and profitability for Marine Industry Certified dealers", says Thom Dammrich, president of both Grow Boating Inc. and NMMA.

“Improving the boat buying experience is a critical component of the industry’s Grow Boating efforts,” echoes Phil Keeter, Grow Boating Inc. vice president and president of the Marine Retailers Association of America (MRAA).

The new Marine Industry Dealership Certification program was developed by dealers, for dealers and focuses on the areas that affect consumer satisfaction and dealership excellence—operations, facilities, professional sales/service processes, customer satisfaction and employee training/satisfaction. Dealership certification program provides both consumer and dealer benefits fundamental to the industry’s Grow Boating Initiative.

Chicago, IL – Grow Boating Inc. will gather the industry for one of the most important meetings of the year during the Miami International Boat Show on February 14, 2007. The 90-minute program, entitled “Grow Boating 2007: Set for Success,” begins at 3:30 p.m. in Room A 204-205 of the Miami Beach Convention Center. Grow Boating Inc. president Thom Dammrich will interview key industry leaders on the progress of critical Grow Boating programs and plans for the coming year.

“This is a ‘don’t miss’ event for anyone with a vested interest in the recreational boating industry,” said Dammrich. “We’ll be sharing important updates and exciting developments that have yet to be announced to the industry and promise to create a worth-while experience for all who attend.”

Chicago, IL – NMMA recently passed another milestone with its Boat/Yacht Certification program—certification of its 200th boat/yacht manufacturer-member. Everglades Boats of Edgewater, Fla., became the 200th NMMA manufacturer certified under the program.

“This is a major accomplishment not only for the marine industry, but more importantly for the boating consumer,” says NMMA president Thom Dammrich. “The industry’s well aware of the importance product certification holds in relation to success of the Grow Boating Initiative, and the fact we’ve hit the 200-mark with certifying NMMA boat and yacht manufacturer-members is remarkable. Reaching this level of commitment from our industry’s manufacturers is a clear indication we’re well on our way to transforming our improved product goals into reality.”

In addition to Everglades, the following manufacturers are the latest to earn NMMA Certified status for their respective products: AB Inflatables, Miranda, Venezuela; Bestway Inflatables, Shanghai, China; Campion Marine Inc., Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada; Mainstream Outdoors, Inc., Carver, Minn.; Neptunus Yachts, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada.; Sun Country Marine, Page, Ariz.; and Zego, Long Beach, Calif.

To date, 203 NMMA member manufacturers have become NMMA Certified. An additional 168 manufacturer members are currently undergoing the certification process.

While all boats in the United States must meet applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations, boats built by manufacturers participating in the NMMA Certified program must also meet the more comprehensive standards set by the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC). Furthermore, to become NMMA Certified, a boat must pass rigorous third-party inspection to ensure it meets and adheres to all applicable standards. NMMA Certified manufacturers must also maintain an ongoing, formal Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) program.

The NMMA Certification program covers more than 30 categories of standards, which vary by boat type and size and may include: fuel systems; ventilation; passenger and weight capacity; horsepower capacity; flotation; electrical systems; navigation lights; warning label placement and guidelines; and steering systems.

NMMA applauds the passage of H.R. 5946, legislation which reauthorizes and amends the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Management and Conservation Act. The Magnuson Act is the nation’s premier federal fisheries law.

After years of intense negotiations between recreational anglers, commercial fishing representatives and environmental groups, Sen. Stevens (R-Alaska) was able to negotiate a last-minute compromise version of his legislation, which he attached for procedural reasons to H.R. 5946, a high seas fisheries bill sponsored by House Resources Chairman Richard Pombo (R-Calif.). The Senate passed the measure late Thursday afternoon by unanimous consent and the House followed suit early Saturday morning. The measure now heads to the President for his signature into law, which is expected.

NMMA worked with a large coalition of recreational fishing groups and conservation organizations to attain this long-overdue reauthorization of the nation’s most important fisheries legislation.

The legislation contains important conservation measures, retaining the 10-year rebuilding timeframe and adding a deadline to end overfishing for depleted stocks, as well as provisions to strengthen the science committees which guide management decisions on allowable catch limits. The bill also contains provisions which will improve the collection and use of recreational fisheries data, including social and economic data. H.R. 5946 strengthens science-based management, builds in safeguards for limited access privilege programs and includes freedom to fish language that will guide fishery managers in the designation of marine protected areas under the Act. The bill requires that any such closure be based on the best available science, include economic and social impact assessments, first consider less restrictive alternatives and be reviewed periodically.

Volvo Penta of the Americas Inc. recently announced it will assist its dealers in becoming certified under the Marine Industry Dealership Certification program by helping defray certification costs. Beginning with the 2007 Model Year, Volvo Penta dealers successfully achieving Marine Industry Certified status can use up to 100 percent of their accrued Volvo Penta advertising co-op funds to cover costs associated with the Dealership Certification program. Volvo Penta dealers that have already become Marine Industry Certified are encouraged to submit their certification letters to Volvo Penta for verification and recognition.

Dealership Certification actively addresses one of the marine industry’s primary concerns: customer service. An effective dealership certification program that provides both consumer and dealer benefits is fundamental to the Grow Boating Initiative. The Marine Industry Dealership Certification program was developed by dealers, for dealers and focuses on the areas that affect dealership quality—operations, facilities, professional sales/service processes, customer satisfaction and employee training/satisfaction.

To date, a total of 415 dealerships have enrolled in the Marine Industry Dealership Certification program, 132 of which have completed the certification process and earned the official “Marine Industry Certified” designation.

The Grow Boating Initiative is an integrated effort among organizations with an interest in the recreational marine industry to promote the boating lifestyle and improve the boating experience. A strategic set of programs focusing on all areas of boating including water access, dealer and product certification, marketing, and research is designed to increase participation in boating and improve sales of marine products and services.

CHICAGO, IL — The NMMA announced recently an expanded promotional partnership with the RBFF to create a new feature exhibit for some of its consumer boat and sportshows. The Take Me Fishing Center is an educational and entertaining interactive information center that will promote freshwater, saltwater and fly fishing depending on the market of each show.

Take Me Fishing Centers will be unveiled at six NMMA boat and sportshows in 2007: San Diego Boat Show (January 4 – 7), Atlanta Boat Show (January 10 – 14), New Orleans Boat Show (January 10 – 14), Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show (January 17 – 21), Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow (January 27 – February 4), and the Des Moines Sportshow (February 14 – 18.)

A key educational component of the Take Me Fishing Centers will be guidance and instruction from on-site fishing experts on everything from equipment and water access to tips and skills. In addition, attendees will have an opportunity to get involved in the “Anglers Legacy” program.

The Center’s display area will feature video monitors highlighting the fishing and boating lifestyle and new product information as well as interactive kiosks that will identify fish types, local activities, clubs, fishing-related opportunities, and information on aquatic stewardship.

For more information on NMMA boat and sports shows, as well as the Take Me Fishing Centers, please contact Kelly Kaylor at kkaylor@nmma.org or 312-946-6262.

CHICAGO, IL - Since its launch this past July, the upgraded, web-enabled version of the NMMA's Marine Data Exchange (MDX) program—MDX Web 2.0—is improving buyer/supplier communication throughout the marine industry.

MDX Web 2.0 is a cost-effective, electronic data interchange (EDI) solution used to trade business documents in real time. Developed by NMMA and the NMMA, it is used to electronically exchange items such as purchase orders, order acknowledgements, ship notices and invoices.

For some companies already trading on MDX, communication is via secure file transfer, sending text files in a standardized EDI format. The program’s Web 2.0 version converts these EDI documents into easy-to-use forms and reports on the Internet, making MDX available to all marine industry accessory manufacturers, distributors, retailers and boatbuilders, regardless of size or the MDX method deployed by their strategic partners. As such, MDX is uniquely positioned as the e-commerce solution developed by the marine industry, for the marine industry.

CHICAGO, IL – Attendance at the NMMA's 2006 consumer boat shows was up a total of seven percent over the previous year’s figures. The combination of several factors contributed to the rise in attendance across the 23 boat shows, including the creation of unique boat show advertisements, increased interactive marketing efforts and strong support from public relations activities.

Marketing initiatives that helped boost attendance range from Internet marketing and grassroots activities, to new advertising and strong public relations efforts.

New, award-winning boat show advertising was a hit and contributed to the attendance increase, notes Wold. Every market in which NMMA’s “Captain” ad ran, boat show attendance increased by double digits. NMMA received both a 2006 Silver Hugo Award and a 2006 Silver Telly Award—the highest honor of its kind—for the commercial. In addition, public relations generated overwhelming media coverage, reaching an all-time high of more than 600 million impressions nationwide. Stories designed to generate excitement and interest ran in the weeks preceding each NMMA boat show. Nearly every television station, newspaper, magazine and website within each boat show market covered that market’s show.

Moving forward in 2007, Wold says these boat show marketing initiatives will not only increase, but be improved upon. “One plan is to send every hot prospect generated through DiscoverBoating.com two free tickets to the upcoming boat show in their area. That’s somewhere between 10,000 and 12,000 people who will receive tickets,” he says.

NMMA is also developing all new boat show creative advertising for the 2007 show season.

For more information, contact NMMA trade communications manager Lindsey Savin Johnson at (312) 946-6204.

CHICAGO, IL - Mercury Marine and Mercruiser recently announced they will help dealers become certified under the Marine Industry Dealership Certification Program by reimbursing dealerships for a portion of certification costs. Any Mercury or Mercruiser dealership pursuing certification can earmark available advertising co-op funds to cover up to 50 percent of costs associated with the program. Dealerships will be reimbursed upon completion of the process. The 50 percent reimbursement applies to both initial certification costs, as well as annual certification renewal fees. Mercury and Mercruiser dealerships that have already completed the program and earned official “Marine Industry Certified” status are welcome to submit their certification letters for verification and reimbursement.

Dealership Certification actively addresses one of the main issues limiting growth in the marine industry: customer service. An effective dealership certification program that provides both consumer and dealer benefits is fundamental to the Grow Boating Initiative. The new Marine Industry Dealership Certification program was developed by dealers, for dealers and focuses on the areas that affect dealership quality—operations, facilities, professional sales/service processes, customer satisfaction and employee training/satisfaction.

To date, a total of 400 dealerships have enrolled in the Marine Industry Dealership Certification program, 121 of which have completed the certification process and earned the official “Marine Industry Certified” designation.

The Grow Boating Initiative is an integrated effort among organizations with an interest in the recreational marine industry to promote the boating lifestyle and improve the boating experience. A strategic set of programs focusing on all areas of boating including water access, dealer and product certification, marketing, and research is designed to increase participation in boating and improve sales of marine products and services. For more information visit GrowBoating.org. Dealers are encouraged to contact individual manufacturers regarding specifics related to Dealership Certification support programs.

CHICAGO, IL – Eight more boat manufacturers are now officially certified under the NMMA's Boat/Yacht Certification program.

The following manufacturers recently earned the “NMMA Certified” designation for their respective products: Cabo Yachts, Adelanto, CA; Concept Boats, Opa Locka, FL; Dusky Marine, Dania, FL; Harbercraft, Vernon, BC, Canada; Hobie Cat, Oceanside, CA; Mercury Inflatables, Fond du Lac, WI; Xpress Boats, Manlius, NY; and Z1 Boats, Fort Lauderdale.

To date, 191 NMMA member manufacturers have become NMMA Certified. An additional 182 manufacturer members are currently undergoing the certification process.

While all boats in the United States must meet applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations, boats built by manufacturers participating in the NMMA Certified program must also meet the more comprehensive standards set by the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC). Furthermore, to become NMMA Certified, a boat must pass rigorous third-party inspection to ensure they meet and adhere to all applicable standards, as well as maintain an ongoing, formal Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) program.

The NMMA Certification program covers more than 30 categories of standards, which vary by boat type and size and may include: fuel systems; ventilation; passenger and weight capacity; horsepower capacity; flotation; electrical systems; navigation lights; warning label placement and guidelines; and steering systems.

For additional information on the NMMA Certification program, or to schedule an inspection, contact NMMA manager, engineering standards Robert Newsome at (312) 946-6275.

CHICAGO, IL - Under direction of the NMMA Mutual Efficiency Forum (MEF) OEM Task Force, a new set of industry standards has been adopted to streamline supply chain communication efforts between accessories manufacturers and boatbuilders.

Task Force members agreed to use the Interleaved 2 of 5 (I 2 of 5) barcoding system, allowing OEMs to scan barcoded information and have it simultaneously entered into the boatbuilders’ computer systems. The stored data is then easily accessible by both parties, increasing supply chain efficiencies for everyone involved in the transaction.

The I 2 of 5 barcode is the same system MEF Aftermarket Task Force members agreed to adopt back in January. By accepting the same standard at the OEM level, one universal barcoding system is now being used throughout the entire supply chain process. However, certain customizations have been made to the OEM guidelines to accommodate this group’s specific needs.

In addition to the group’s barcoding recommendations, the MEF OEM Task Force is also formally urging all OEMs to adopt forecasting methodology in order to create additional efficiencies within the supply chain process. Forecasting is a method in which an OEM informs the manufacturer of its anticipated needs sometime in advance, so the manufacturer will more easily be able to fulfill an OEMs order when the time comes.