Boat Show a Success
Tuesday September 16, 2008
It’s been a marathon these last two weeks, the journey, setup, show and take down, but all agree that the effort was well rewarded. We have met some wonderful people, seen some familiar faces and got a nice opportunity getting to know a few of our owners a little better.
There were discussions around the office over the last few months about wether or not Newport RI would be a good show for Port Vandemere;that it might be too far away. It seems as though, from all the people we met, not only have they heard of us, or been following the blog, but are actively shopping for property with us or with others in our area.
Here are a few comments we heard again and again.
* Port Vandemere would be a great place to winter their boat, and themselves due to its 12 month season and proximity to even warmer cruising grounds.
*There seems to be a shortage of marina slips, property values and taxes are very high around New England, our new slips and low NC taxes are still a great value.
*Some own boat slips and property in Florida, making the annual fall pilgrimage south. But due to high taxes and skyrocketing insurance rates they are looking to sell their slips there but still maintain a winter residence somewhere that has a temperate climate. Again, Port Vandemere seems to fit.
* Lastly we met some real ‘world cruisers’ that are looking for a new home base somewhere half way between New England and the Bahamas, or ports farther south. More importantly a marina that can take boats with mast heights above the 65′ ICW limitation. Using Ocracoke Inlet makes our well protected marina accessible to these vessels.
The input and comments from everyone at the show, reassured us that our community and marina will have a buzz of activity, and a comradery among neighbors. Oriental all ready has the reputation of being a laid back, active community of interesting and genuinely nice people and it seems Port Vandemere will be just the same.
And one last observation as far as boating goes, we have it pretty good in North Carolina. Now we may not have 100 feet of water under the keel or sweeping cliffs but the weather is nice, most of the time, our winds are fairly consistent and breezy, we have uncrowded anchorages, pristine beaches, very historic and charming small towns, and affordable prices. Time and time again we heard cruisers tell stories of how enjoyable a stop in Oriental was on their way through the ICW.
We look forward to meeting more of you at the upcoming Annapolis Boat Show.
I’d like to thank Pete and his wife for stopping in on Saturday, we really enjoyed the conversation and hope to see you again soon.
