boat, we had no idea what we were looking for,
so we narrowed it down to certain factors such as
size, purpose and price. after going to a few boat
dealerships, he visited marinemax clearwater and
with their assistance, located a pre-owned sea ray
that seemed to be all we were looking for in a leisure
craft. We purchased a 21-foot sea ray in february
and thought that it would fit our entertainment style.
occasions with her, i was ready to retire my sea legs. i
wondered whether it was our total lack of experience
or having chosen a boat that did not fit our needs or
style, that made our experience less than pleasant,
but i was determined to figure it out.
and a special class just for women boaters. i signed
up for the Women on Water class because i was
convinced that it was my inexperience that resulted in
my inability to enjoy our watercraft and my constant
angst regarding the comfort and safety of our 21-foot
boat. on march 8, 2014, i entered marinemax for my
Women on Water class not knowing what to expect.
Herrera, the marinemax coordinator, and taught by capt. Keith
lake. they did an amazing job! at no time did they make me feel
like a novice, although i was one. in addition, the other women
who attended were at the same or similar level that i was, and
made me feel very comfortable. capt. Keith was an expert teacher
and a very patient man. He helped calm my fears regarding safety
by providing readily available tools that i could use in the event
of an emergency. However, the true epiphany for me was when
capt. Keith took us all out on the water for a practice run where
he allowed (compelled) all of us to take turns at docking the boat
and driving it, with his expert guidance and direction. We were
provided a beautiful sea ray 260 sundeck. When i drove that
260 and i felt the difference in the smooth ride (as compared to
my boat) and experienced the luxury of that boat, i knew right
then and there, that my apprehension and aversion to boating
had been caused by our having chosen and purchased the wrong
boat for our family.
and all the knowledge that had been imparted in those four hours.
and all the different features, safety and feel that the 260 sundeck
provided. after several conversations, my husband and i decided
to trade in the boat we had purchased only two months prior and
purchase a 260 sundeck. our salesman, Greg anthony, was very
helpful and understanding and marinemax helped us through the
process to ensure we got a fair deal on the boat that was perfect
for our family.
in the water, but it also made me realize the reason for my
apprehension in that it was not solely based on my inexperience,
but also due in part to the watercraft we had chosen to purchase.
the class inspired me to purchase a beautiful, safe and comfortable
boat that my entire family can enjoy.
friendly and accommodating. i also thank estephanie for putting
together a wonderful and uplifting class and capt. Keith for all the
knowledge that you imparted and assistance you offered me in
the future. i truly feel like part of the marinemax family.