July 22, 2024

Tips to Keep Your Boat in Top Shape

Owning a boat is an exciting adventure, especially for families looking to create unforgettable memories on the water. The thrill of cruising through Charleston’s beautiful waterways, fishing, or simply enjoying a sunny day with loved ones makes boating a cherished pastime. However, the joy of boat ownership comes with the responsibility of keeping your vessel in top shape. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensuring the safety and longevity of your boat, allowing you to focus on creating those special moments. If you’re a first-time boat owner in the Charleston County area, this guide is here to help you navigate the essential maintenance tasks needed to keep your vessel running smoothly and efficiently.

In this article, we will cover:

  1. Regular Cleaning and Inspection
  2. Engine Maintenance
  3. Battery Care
  4. Safety Equipment Check
  5. Trailer Maintenance
  6. Seasonal Maintenance
  7. Conclusion

1. Regular Cleaning and Inspection

Keeping It Clean

Regularly cleaning your boat helps prevent the build-up of dirt, grime, and salt that can cause long-term damage. After each outing in the Charleston area, give your boat a thorough rinse with fresh water to remove salt and other residues. For a deeper clean, use marine-safe soap and a soft brush to scrub down all surfaces. Pay special attention to areas that are often exposed to the elements, such as the deck and hull. Cleaning not only keeps your boat looking great but also helps you spot potential issues early.

At Longshore Boats we offer all of the products that you will need to keep your boat clean and pristine. Our expert staff can help guide you through the steps and products needed to maintain your boat.

Getting maintenance done with us? We will make sure to wash your boat after the maintenance is done. Or if your boat is in a less than ideal condition, we offer full boat detailing including protective wax coating, bottom paint, and overall deep cleaning that will help increase the life of your boat. 

Flushing Your Engine

It is important to flush your engine regularly to maintain its longevity, especially in saltwater environments, by helping to prevent salt build-up and corrosion that cause lead to major issues and costly repairs. Visit our blog to learn more about how to flush your Yamaha outboard motor.

Inspect for Wear and Tear

While cleaning, take the time to inspect your boat for any signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks, blisters, or other damage on the hull. Check the condition of the propeller, making sure it’s free of dents and debris. Don’t forget to examine ropes, lines, and fenders for any signs of fraying or weakening. Regular inspection allows you to address minor issues before they become major problems, saving you time and money in the long run.

Remember, proper maintenance on all of your boat components will help to increase its lifespan and reduce the need for costly repairs in the long run. A little bit of TLC can go a long way. Longshore Boats offers repair and maintenance service, as well as annual maintenance for your boat, keeping it in top shape.

2. Engine Maintenance

Check the Oil

Just like your car, your boat’s engine needs regular oil changes to stay in good condition. Check the oil level before every outing, and change it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Look for any signs of water contamination, such as a milky appearance, which could indicate a more serious issue. Regular oil changes ensure that your engine runs smoothly and efficiently, reducing the risk of breakdowns.

Inspect the Cooling System

An overheating engine can quickly ruin a day on the water. Ensure the cooling system is working properly by checking the water pump and impeller. Replace the impeller if it shows signs of wear, and flush the cooling system regularly to remove any blockages. Maintaining the cooling system is crucial for preventing overheating and extending the life of your engine. This is particularly important for brands like Robalo, EdgeWater, and Chaparral, known for their high-performance engines.

3. Battery Care

Keep It Charged

A dead battery can leave you stranded, so it’s important to keep it charged and in good condition. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them with a mixture of baking soda and water if needed. It is also important to turn off the batteries when not in use, or in a situation like hanging out at the sandbar listening to music, only leave one battery on so you don’t drain both.

Ensure the battery is securely mounted and test it regularly to make sure it holds a charge. Regular maintenance of your battery ensures that you’re never left powerless in the middle of a trip around Charleston’s waterways.

Winterize When Necessary

If you’re not using your boat during the off-season, make sure to remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Keep it charged periodically to prevent it from dying over the winter months. Proper winterization of the battery helps maintain its longevity and performance for the next boating season.

4. Safety Equipment Check

Life Jackets and Safety Gear

Safety is paramount for family outings, and both the Coast Guard and your state, require specific items on your boat to remain legal. Regularly inspect your life jackets to ensure they are in good condition and fit properly. Check other safety gear, such as fire extinguishers, flares, and first aid kits, to make sure everything is in working order and up to date. Included with every new boat purchase here at Longshore Boats, is a Coast Guard Kit with essentials for safe boating. Having functional safety equipment can make a significant difference in emergencies. Contact us today if you need safety gear.

Navigation Lights and Horns

Make sure all navigation lights are functioning correctly, and test your boat’s horn before setting out. Replace any faulty bulbs and carry spare fuses on board. Properly working navigation lights and horns are essential for safe boating, especially in low visibility conditions.

5. Trailer Maintenance

Tire and Brake Check

If you’re trailering your boat, regular maintenance of the trailer is just as important. Check the tire pressure and tread before each trip, and inspect the brakes and lights to ensure they are functioning properly. Grease the wheel bearings regularly to prevent them from seizing up, and make sure to rinse off the salty Charleston water to avoid corrosion. Keeping your trailer in good condition ensures safe and smooth transportation of your boat.

Secure the Boat

Ensure your boat is properly secured on the trailer before hitting the road. Check all straps and tie-downs for wear and replace them if necessary. Make sure the boat is balanced and not shifting during transit. Properly securing your boat prevents damage and accidents during transportation.

Legalities

Beyond day-to-day maintenance, you have to make sure that your trailer is compliant with all state laws and regulations. Your registration must be up-to-date, and your license plate must be valid if traveling out of state. Make sure to check the South Carolina DMV website for laws and regulation regarding your boat trailer.

6. Seasonal Maintenance

Winterizing Your Boat

Before the winter season, take steps to winterize your boat. This includes draining the fuel system, adding antifreeze to the engine, and covering your boat to protect it from the elements. Consult your owner’s manual for specific winterizing instructions for your boat model. Winterizing your boat protects it from harsh weather and ensures it’s ready for use when the season changes.

Spring Preparations

When spring arrives, prepare your boat for the new season by reversing the winterizing process. Replace any parts that may have deteriorated over the winter and give your boat a thorough inspection before taking it out on the water. Spring preparations help you identify and fix any issues that occurred during the winter, ensuring a smooth start to the boating season. This is a great time to bring your boat into Longshore Boats for all of its annual maintenance needs.

Boat Maintenance Need in the Charleston, SC area

Maintaining your boat doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these essential tips, you can ensure that your boat and trailer remain in excellent condition, providing your family with safe and enjoyable outings for years to come. Remember, regular maintenance not only extends the life of your boat but also helps you avoid costly repairs in the future.

Whether you’re looking to purchase a new boat or need advice on keeping your current vessel in top shape, Longshore Boats is your trusted partner on the water. Contact us today to learn more and start making unforgettable memories with your family!

Looking for a boat for you and your family? Visit Longshore Boats, Charleston SC’s premier boat dealership. We proudly serve Charleston, North Charleston, Summerville, Mount Pleasant, and West Ashley. Our expert team is here to help you find the perfect boat and provide all the maintenance support you need.

We offer a range of boats from trusted brands like Robalo, EdgeWater, and Chaparral. Robalo boats, in particular, are perfect for first-time buyers, offering safety and security.

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What our customers say about us

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Cliff McCann
October 25, 2024

Hector made the boat buying experience fantastic. He is a consummate professional. He is always available for consultation and always has the answers. I highly recommend him if you are looking to buy a boat.

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Amanda Stockton
September 21, 2024

Longshore Boats in Charleston, SC exceeded our expectations with their exceptional service and top-quality Chaparral 21 SSIOB. Our sales representative, Thomas Drayton, was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and made the entire buying process a delightful experience. From start to finish, Longshore Boats demonstrated their commitment to customer satisfaction, and we highly recommend them to anyone in the market for a new boat.

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Keagan Stockton
September 21, 2024

Great boat, great price, great service. Love it. Thanks you Thomas

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Liam Stockton
September 21, 2024

I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. We are first time boat owners and Thomas Drayton took care of us every step of the way. Knowledgable, professional, easy to work with. Closing took about five minutes…so easy!!! Highly recommended.

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David Billingsley
September 17, 2024

…. I recently purchased a used Edgewater 185 CC from Longshore Boats and I’m extremely happy with not only the boat, but with all my dealings with them .. My initial email contact was promptly answered by Hector Chavarria from sales, who not only answered all my questions, but did a FaceTime walkthrough of the boat .. throughout the entire buying process he made himself always available and followed through on all my requests .. a big “shout out” to Bennet for promptly dealing with a title issue for the trailer and also to Rose for her efforts .. buying a boat online can be a daunting and perilous experience ! .. not so with the folks at Longshore Boats ! .. A big “Thank You” to them all from an old man up in Pennsylvania fishing for those walleye and steelhead ! …. d. billingsley

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Barbari Griesse
September 9, 2024

We had an exceptional experience working with Hector during our boat purchase. From the start he was knowledgeable, attentive and went above and beyond. His expertise made the process smooth and enjoyable. I highly recommend working with Hector!

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Dan Cremer
September 9, 2024

Hector knows his trade and helped me to make an informed decision. My favorite part is that service doesn’t end at the sale. He regularly checks in with me even 6 months after we completed the sale. I have piece of mind knowing that I can always reach out to him with questions and advice.

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Frank Bowdoin
August 11, 2024

What a great time we all had when Longshore Boats invited us out to Bulls Bay Island for an afternoon of fun, food and games. Anchoring at an island and having food and drinks cooked fresh for everyone, come on it doesn’t get any better than that. Thanks for a great day Longshore crew. You show your customers a great time.

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Matthew
August 2, 2024

Great buying experience! Thomas was great to work with!

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Mark Lipsmeyer
July 30, 2024

Thanks to the Longshore team for putting on a fantastic event. We had an incredible experience and look for to next year's event. Thanks so much!

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Key West
July 30, 2024

Thank you so much! The guys in the service department, Dan McBride and Thornton Lacy, did a phenomenal job. I had company coming in for the weekend and, of course, the boat wouldn't start. It needed an ignition switch kit. The guys at Longshore Boats showed me how to remove my old switch kit, and then they fit a new switch kit into my existing bezel. The boat was up and running in no time. Thanks guys!

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Miguel Rodriguez
July 29, 2024

What an awesome event and community! Many thanks to Longshoreboats for having the event local this year, it was a blast!

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Aaron Siegel
July 18, 2024

I purchased a Robalo R160 from Hector and the entire transaction was seamless! He was an absolute pleasure to deal with from my initial information gathering call to him personally delivering the boat to my driveway! If you’re looking for a boat he’s “The guy”. Really appreciate all his hard work and time.

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Art Beyer
July 10, 2024

This was a first time boat purchase and couldn’t have gone better. Worked with Thomas Drayton who was always available to take questions and work with me through the details. Everyone at Longshore including the manage Steve and Thornton and Dan in service have been extremely helpful and friendly. I highly recommend Longshore Boats and encourage you to reach out to Thomas if looking to purchase.

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Wendy Nyberg
July 10, 2024

I cannot express enough how professional and thorough Thomas Drayton was throughout the purchase of my boat at Longshore. From the moment I showed interest in the boat, he provided me the best customer service possible. My transaction could have been a difficult one as I was purchasing the boat from out of state and then transporting it to another state. He assisted with all aspects of the sale and went above and beyond to make sure all services and upgrades I did were executed to the highest level. I have bought several boats from other dealers in the past, and hands down the service and customer first attitude was far superior at Longshore. Id like to also give a shout out to Hector Chavarria on his assistance in providing his knowledge to me on the appropriate electronics and boat trailers, etc. I’ve had my boat for a few months now and I am convinced the best choice I made on this journey was choosing Longshore and working with Thomas and Hector!

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David Troy
June 26, 2024

Hector was professional, honest and extremely responsive. I purchased a boat long distance and it was terribly unsettling to send so much money to someone I didn't know and then hope everything turned out fine. Hector never ghosted me, he always answered the phone or called back and he met all my expectations.

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Stewart Geyer
June 7, 2024

Dan went unbelievably over and above for us. New customer for life.

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Erin Simmons
May 30, 2024

We stopped by Longshore boats on a whim one Saturday morning. We got lucky and got Hector as our sales person. Hector has been incredibly helpful from searching for the perfect boat for our family to the purchasing a boat, and has continued to provide helpful information as a recent boat owner. He is honest, knowledgeable about boats and boating in general in this area. He made this experience seamless and we’re very grateful. We would recommend Hector and Longboats.

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David Stedman
May 29, 2024
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Kevin Jordan
May 25, 2024

Hector Chavarri provided amazing service when I bought a used boat from Longshore. Very knowledgeable and went above and beyond with everything he did. Highly recommended!

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jim
May 24, 2024

From selection to delivery, effortless and enjoyable. All the people at Longshore really go the extra mile. I just took my maiden voyage on my new 23cc and it was a pleasure. Steven , the general manager, even arranged for a captain to accompany me on my first trim. Dan took me thru the boat and made sure I was comfortable with the operation. Thanks guys, see you all on the water.

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Will Summers
May 24, 2024

The customer service was absolutely outstanding, the front desk guys were very knowledgeable and helpful!

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Joel Trewartha
May 16, 2024

Called Thornton and the team at Longshore for a trolling motor install. They got me in and out in less than a week from when I called them and did a great job! Highly recommended

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Martin Little
May 14, 2024

Thomas Drayton and Longshore Boats are an A+ crew. They worked greatly with us on our new Chaparral 23 SSI for us to boat with in Charleston. They made the sale very easy, and followed through on their word. Thanks!

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David Campopiano
May 13, 2024

I just took delivery of my fourth boat from Longshore Boats on Clements Ferry in Berkeley County. This one was a 246 Cayman Robalo. The Team at Longshore has demonstrated to me a willingness to work through logistics, customize the boat to your needs and make the whole experience enjoyable. My sales advisor was Hector Chavarria who found me the right boat and arranged with his sales partner Thomas Drayton to find the right buyer for my existing boat to complete the transaction. It was a win win for all of us. Longshore handled all of the paper work on both boats and provided an experienced captain to deliver the new boat with a 4 hour session on the water. It was a team effort including Stephen Parulis, the GM who helped negotiate the two party transaction. If you are in the market for a new or used boat, I strongly recommend visiting Hector at Longshore. He has a wealth of experience and knowledge in boating and fishing. As far as service, Longshore has serviced all of my boats over the years and has allowed me uninterrupted use of my boats on the water. A special thank you to Steven Ellliot for prepping the new Cayman and making it sea worthy.

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Matt Sloan
May 13, 2024

Absolutely fantastic. I was having a terrible experience with a competing firm who did not seem to want my business. I walked into Longshore and met with Hector. No appointment. Just wandered in. Hector was super responsive. He talked me out of a bad decision and within an hour solved my problem of getting rid of my existing boat and sold me a new one. I did not expect to buy a boat that day but thanks to Hector everything fell beautifully into place. He has since gone out of his way to help me with a few customer service matters. He is a pleasure to work. I love Longshore.

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Jeff Kaplan
May 6, 2024

Our family just purchased a previously owned 2021 Robalo through Longshore Boats. We got a wonderful deal and the buying process was enjoyable and stress free. Everyone on staff was great. Our Sales Rep Tom Drayton was attentive and responsive throughout the process. His ability to answer our questions and address our requests made it all possible. The boat was delivered today and we couldn’t be more pleased. We strongly recommend you visit Longshore if you are considering purchasing a new or used boat.

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Tony Scruggs
May 6, 2024

Wow! What a fantastic company to work with. First class in every aspect. The general manager Stephen Parulis was a pleasure to work with. No pressure and very honest in every respect. I purchased a 270 Rabalo and this boat is just perfect for the Charleston lifestyle. No one could match the deal, not even in a Nationwide search.

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Edward Conklin
May 6, 2024

We have been considering a new boat for almost six years. During this time frame we have talked with most the other dealers in the area, attended all the boat shows and did all the research. One thing remained consistent during this time frame, the professionalism of Longshore Boats experts. Our experience was amazing, no pressure, no overselling, always returning phone calls and texts. Following up as needed. I asked a lot of question and they never made me feel as I was overstaying our welcome. Once we decided to move forward with the purchase and since taking possession of our boat, our experience continues been exceptional. They go over and above our expectations. And they still answer the calls and questions at all times of day. When service is needed, they make it seamless. My recommendation if you are looking at a new boat, make sure you stop at Longshore boats.

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Mark Rosenberg
May 2, 2024

Longshore Boats is a first class operation from sales to service. If you are in the market for a Chaparral, Robalo or Edgewater, ask for Hector Chavarria. He has been there a while and he took great care of me with a Chaparral! Thanks Hector!.

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Craig Adams
May 2, 2024

Longshore boat dealership is a great place to buy a boat. Thomas Drayton our salesman made my experience very enjoyable! He is knowledgeable on all the products, he was hands on cleaning and detailing our boat and making sure it was safe and ready to go boating! I highly recommend buying a boat from Thomas at Longshore Boats!

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Griffin Morrow
May 1, 2024

Thomas was great to work with as we worked through the boat purchasing process. He is very knowledgeable on all boats available through Longshore! Highly recommend Thomas and Longshore!!

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Zoher Alimohamed
April 26, 2024

The whole experience buying a boat was incredible! The entire staff was so nice and helpful for us throughout the process. Highly recommend Longshore to anyone looking to buy a boat. Especially, working with Thomas was great! He was always quick to answer questions and answer calls when we needed him. 5/5 for sure!

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Tony Doar
April 25, 2024

Stephen & his team are the folks you want to sell your boat. They handled my transaction from start to finish, bringing a qualified buyer in just a few weeks. Look no further than Longshore Boats if you want to work with professionals. Thank you Stephen. Tony Doar, Charleston,SC

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sean peache
March 29, 2024

I had an amazing boat buying experience with Hector! He was honest and completely transparent through the whole process. He was professional and just a great guy to work with. If you don’t go through Hector when you purchase your next boat, you’re missing out!

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Tip Simons
March 13, 2024

Very friendly, professional, and thorough.

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Forrest Dangerfield
March 12, 2024

We just bought our first boat from Longshore and Hector was our salesman throughout the process. I wrote a request for additional information on the boat I was interested in on a Saturday and didn’t expect a response until Monday. However, within minutes, Hector reached out to me and scheduled a time for me to come in that day. He had the boat ready within 45 minutes and never pressured us not anything other than what we wanted. He made the experience feel comfortable and welcomed my two young children who accompanied us to the dealership. Hector coordinated with the financing companies for us and also helped get our insurance process rolling. After purchasing the boat, he also set up a personalized lesson with an experienced captain. Hector was wonderful and we highly recommend him to anyone wanting to buy a boat without feeling pressured into anything other than what you want.

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I am a very happy costumer as I had the best possible experience buying my first Robalo boat at Longshore Boats. Hector Chavarria and the team at Longshore Boats answered all my many questions and guided me through the whole process. Hector has all the important “As”: Availability, Affability, and Ability. He connected me with captains, local fishermen, and others to make my boating experience more enjoyable and safe!

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Jhoana Jimenez
February 28, 2024

bianey made ordering Robalo parts such a easy process!!

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Christopher Helmke
January 14, 2024

What a great experience we had purchasing a Robalo from Longshore Boats. Our sales rep, Hector Chavarria, helped us every step of the way answering all of our questions. Since we were coming from NY, he effectively coordinated our time to see and test drive the Robalo. Very accommodating and kept everything fast and friendly! Thank you Hector!

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CaptainWaterfront
December 13, 2023

Hector is the best! I’ve bought and sold many boats over the years and have never had anyone close to the level of care and attention Hector provided! He acted as my eyes as I had a lot of work done while I was in back home in Maryland. I knew his eye was as good as my eye and probably more critical! A true pleasure dealing with Hector, who I now consider a friend! They just don’t come any better! 10 Stars!! Thanks again for all your attention to the details! You’re a one off!! 👍🏻👍🏻

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Jennifer
December 6, 2023

Hector was super attentive and knowledgeable. It was our first time getting a boat and he definitely did a great job. Highly recommend Longshore Boats

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Jay Miles
December 5, 2023

Thanks for making my boat shopping experience seamless. Hector answered all my questions and was invaluable in recommending the right accessories for my boating goals.

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Bob Horner
December 5, 2023

I never leave reviews, but today I do it because Longshore Boats broke the bar and all my expectations. Héctor is a highly professional and great person. Thank you, Héctor, for everything.

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Carol Jaworski
August 26, 2023

Yesterday I had a minor emergency before a fishing trip and was delighted by the friendly and quick service by the service team at Longshore Boats. Shout out to Stephen in the service department, along with Mike and new guy Jason! And thank you Stephen in sales for once again pointing me in the right direction. They saved a day of fishing and once again proved that they are the best in the biz!

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Chad Cammer
August 11, 2023

Gian was very helpful.Never felt like I was being sold.Very friendly people and good service

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Jack Townsend
July 27, 2023

Called Longshore on a Friday with fueling problems on a Yamaha outboard. They had that boat out and fixed that Monday, solving a problem that another shop mis-diagnosed. Jason was very easy to work with and they were a reasonable price. Highly recommend this shop.

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Stephan Oster
July 18, 2023

Just had my first service done on my new boat and Jason handled everything like a complete professional and made the process super easy. I will definitely be using Longshore for all my service needs

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Trae Redmond
July 10, 2023

Billy Bentley with the Service department did an excellent job handling my warranty issues. His communication and follow up was top notch! Thank you!

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Mike Milward
July 3, 2023

I cannot say enough about everyone I have dealt with at Longshore Boats. Most recently I ordered multiple add-on’s to my Robalo 222 and Billy has been very helpful and courteous from the beginning to ensure he is ordering exactly what I want.