Boating Businesses I Support

This is a listing of boating related businesses, services and products that I have chosen to support with my wallet. And as stated in the intro on this blog, I'm a relative newbie to sailing, so I learn from recommendations, reviews, and hands-on experience little by little.  I'll add to the list over time. Any comments, additions, or feedback on suppliers and service providers is greatly appreciated.



Afterguard Sailing Academy

- My wife got me a LivingSocial intro class and it was great.

- Their style is practical and they are cruise-minded (as opposed to racing-minded).
- They also have programs for inner city kids, which makes me want to support them further.
- I have signed up for certification classes throughout the winter, which comes with a $100 discount (I guess some people are afraid of the rain).
- I don't have experience with OCSC or Club Nautique, but I think I've found a personality fit with this group, and will stick with them.

http://www.afterguard.net 

1853 Embarcadero, Oakland, CA 94606

(510) 535-1954



Blue Pelican
- This seems to be THE place for used boat parts, charts, and even foul weather gear.
- I can see saving some serious money finding what I need here, instead of West Marine or Amazon.
http://www.bluepelicanmarine.com 
2021 Alaska Packer Pl, Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 769-4858

Bay Marine Boatworks
- I used this boatyard for my haul out for the pre-purchase survey.
- Their pricing was fair, and everyone I encountered was friendly and helpful.
- Strangely, on Yelp this yard is often given mixed reviews and described as a "sailor's boatyard" not for newbies. 
- I found the guys working there to be happy to talk with me during my survey, and they lent me tools to do an impromptu zinc replacement (my first actual repair to the boat) while I had it out of the water. 
- I'll probably use a yard in Alameda closer to home for any subsequent repairs, but I have only good things to say about Bay Marine at this point.
http://BayMarineBoatworks.com
(510) 237-0140

Campbell Sailor Props -- from West by North Enterprises
- I have a heavily corroded 3 blade fixed prop on the boat I just purchased.
- Campbell Sailor props have good reviews for greater efficiency due to design than traditional fixed props. 
- I ordered a 13" and will install it (actually a diver will) in the next two week, and I'll share an update on the performance after that.
- Price was good compared to other fixed props of the size, and I expect to get better performance from it.
http://www.westbynorth.com/CampbellSailer.aspx
http://www.westbynorth.com/CampbellSailerTests.aspx 

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