Dodger and bimini allow sun-protected sailing

May 1, 2011  |  Marine, Projects

[SeaCanvas] Egg Harbor Township, N.J., U.S.A. SeaCanvas created a traditional style dodger and a bimini connector that zips to the back of the dodger. The dodger’s zip-in, rigid polycarbonate forward windows can be completely removed, or just the middle window can be removed. One-quarter-inch …
Plastic adhesive snap components offer alternative to metal

May 1, 2011  |  Marine, Products

SNAD plastic adhesive snap components offer the marine industry an alternative to existing metal screw studs. Developed by YKK Snap Fasteners America Inc., the plastic components increase application possibilities. Since there is no need for a functional spring in the plastic socket, there is no con…
Terri Madden creatively streamlines workflow

May 1, 2011  |  Features, Management, Marine, Perspective

Terri Madden streamlines workflow while keeping a creative edge. By Sigrid Tornquist “All of the steps required to achieve Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification placed my business practices under a microscope,” says Terri Madden, MFC, owner of Sand Sea and Air Interiors Inc. in San…
Marine fabricators diversify and stay afloat

May 1, 2011  |  Features, Management, Marine

Marine fabricators capitalize on new growth opportunities as the economy begins to improve. By Kelly Frush Like most segments of the specialty fabrics industry, marine fabrication took a hit during the recent recession. Consumers became wary of investing in new luxury items like boats during such a …
High tide in 2011?

April 1, 2011  |  Industry News, Marine

After several years of low tide in the marine industry, 2011 may be the year that finally lifts all boats. “The marine industry is starting to see signs of recovery as we move past the recession,” says Jeff Malehorn, president and CEO of GE Capital’s Commercial Distribution Finance…
Marine, upholstery fabrics available in new patterns

April 1, 2011  |  Marine, Products

Three new patterns join Softside Marine’s offerings, featuring PermaGuard stain-resistant finish. Also mildew resistant, anti-fungal, and resistant to scratches and scuffs, but with its hi-loft backing maintains a soft hand. For marine seating and general use upholstery. An expanded Tempotest …
Environmentally friendly casual furniture fabrics now available from Tri Vantage®

March 24, 2011  |  Marine, Products, Upholstery

GeoBella®, a line of outdoor cushion fabrics combining performance, comfort and recyclability, has been added to furniture fabric offerings from Tri Vantage®. Woven by Phifer Inc. using post-industrial olefin yarn wastes, GeoBella fabrics are PVC-free and 100 percent recyclable. Available in…
Solar cover systems keeps batteries charged

March 1, 2011  |  Marine, Products

A quick getaway on your boat or in a recreational vehicle (RV) can turn ugly when the batteries that power the pleasure go flat during storage. But if the sun shines on your boat or RV cover’s small, flexible solar panel during its dormant days, the battery will always be ready when you are. &…
Recession batters the boat industry

March 1, 2011  |  Industry News, Marine

Despite some improvement in December 2010 sales, economic hard times swamped the boat industry for most of the year, according to the Info-Link Technologies Inc. Bellwether Report. In summer 2009, losses tracked by the report reached their worst point, with mixed or modest recovery since. Sales of p…
At the Miami Boat Show: “The Secrets Behind What YouTubeâ„¢ Can Do For You,” Feb. 17

February 9, 2011  |  Industry News, Marine

With Americans spending more time viewing video online than checking e-mail, YouTube™, with its 455 million users, has great potential as a marketing tool for recreational boating. A leading YouTube and video marketing expert will demonstrate what this rapidly growing social network can do to …