Celebrate National Marina Day
Public invited to visit over 70 in-water yachts, see marine product demonstrations, learn more about the marine industry and tour private club facilities this Saturday, August 9
STUART, FL (August 5, 2008)-In celebration of National Marina Day, Harborage Yacht Club and Marina opens its flagship marina this Saturday, August 9, to highlight water-based recreation and access to one of America's greatest natural resources-its waterway's and oceans.
The day will include a free boat shuttle to Harborage Yacht Club and Marina from the City of Stuart docks (behind City Hall), tours of the marina and private yacht club, 70 in-water boat displays, and land displays by area boat builders, yacht brokers, and marine-related organizations and businesses.
Noting the economic contributions made by the marine industries and the importance of marinas as a gateway to boating in our region, the Martin County Board of County Commissioners issued a proclamation on August 5, 2008, declaring August 9, 2008 as Marina Day in Martin County, Florida.
According to the last figures released by the Marine Industries Association, marinas and marine-related industries in Martin County contribute significantly to the county's economic vitality by generating $688 million annually and providing nearly 5,000 jobs.
Gary Guertin, general manager of Harborage Yacht Club & Marina and the chairman of the Martin County Convention and Visitors Bureau, notes that marinas and the marine-industries also help attract tourists to Martin County and that marinas also serve as stewards of the environment.
"Tourists come by land, but also by sea. Martin County is fortunate to have several world-class marinas to welcome and attract those traveling by water. Additionally, all Martin County marinas serve the community as stewards of the environment. They actively seek protection of the surrounding waterways, not only for the enjoyment of this generation, but for generations to come."
The 2008 National Marina Day celebration at Harborage Yacht Club & Marina is free and open to the public; hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The complimentary boat shuttle service from the City of Stuart dock will run on the half hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beverages and food will be available for purchase. For information, call (772) 692-4000. Harborage Yacht Club & Marina is located at 955 N.W. Flagler Avenue in Stuart.