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The countdown is officially on to the holidays and of course our beloved Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade!
October was filled with community connections and planning for 2026.
As expenses continue to rise and dues have not gone up in several years, MIAPBC membership dues will be increasing next year by $50 for business members, but if business members renew membership by December 31, then they will remain the same for 2026 (yay). New business members who join MIAPBC this month will receive 13 or 14 months of membership (November/December) at the discounted rate for the price of 12. We also have a NEW and very exciting membership for those businesses looking to get even more out of MIAPBC membership. The cost is $2,000 per year for the new Admiral Membership but it comes with a LOT of great perks. You can find all the details below in the newsletter. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Renewals will be mailed to all members starting this week.
We are also planning another member awards event for end of January. We encourage all members to nominate a person or business for this event!
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FORUM CLUB
WITH GOVERNOR RON DESANTIS
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LOGGERHEAD MARINELIFE CENTER
GO BLUE AWARDS
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It’s also time to grab tickets for the Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade Kickoff Celebration at 1000 North on November 18 and for the VIP Viewing Party on December 6. These events are only open to members, sponsors, and participants of the event. Is it too late to be a sponsor? NO! We still have many sponsorships available, but don’t wait because most materials with logos will be printed within the next week. We also need prizes! Please consider donating a prize for the participating boats in the parade.
In addition to planning, Team MIAPBC was out in full force around the county, including at Washington Elementary in Riviera Beach where Paola and I got to be principal for the morning. We also had a table at the Forum Club event with Governor Ron DeSantis. Congratulations to our friends at Loggerhead Marinelife Center for their recognition two years in a row as the #1 "Best Free Attraction" in USA Today's 2025 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. MIAPBC was also proud to be recognized as finalist for LMC’s annual Go Blue Awards for Blue Business of the Year for our PBIBS Gives Back Grant program in partnership with Informa Markets. Junior Achievement had another successful Laugh Your Assets Off fundraiser comedy show, benefiting students in PBC.
Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving. We are so thankful for our members and supporters!
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Dixie Printing and Letter Press, Inc
Bushra Aijaz
Dixieptg@aol.com
dixieprinting-wpb.com
The Talented Teen Club
Shawn Ho-Hing-King
Shawn_king@talentedteenclub.org
talentedteenclub.org
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EGA Marine LLC
Dan Lund
Info@egamarine.com
egamarine.com
Ubora Property Solutions
Christelle Niamke
Info@uborapropertysolutions.com
uborapropertysolutions.com
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Veteran Marine
Seth Pontecorvo
Info@veteranmarineconsulting.com
Veteranmarineconsulting.com
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Florida Inland Navigation District, 28 years
Albury Brother Boats, 21 years
South Florida Marine, 16 years
Yachting Select, 3 years
TAKE ON TRADES, 2 years
Boatz Services, 2 years
USA Yacht Services, 1 year
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Dear Members,
We’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support this year! Your involvement in the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County is incredibly important to the strength and success of our industry.
After several years without any changes, MIAPBC business membership dues will see a modest $50 increase beginning in 2026. Members who renew by December 31, 2025, can lock in their current rate for another year before the new pricing takes effect.
We know you’re busy, so here are a few key reminders:
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Renew by January 31, 2026 to ensure your business is included in the Boater’s Directory publication.
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All members receive a FREE directory listing, so don’t forget to log in to our website to update your company description — otherwise, your listing will be left blank.
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Need help logging in or a copy of your invoice? Contact Stephanie at assistant@marinepbc.org or (561) 863-0012.
If you’re not yet a member, there’s no better time to join! New business members who join in November or December will receive 13–14 months of membership for the price of 12 at the current (discounted) rate.
We’re also excited to announce our new Admiral Membership—a premium option designed for businesses looking to maximize their MIAPBC engagement. At $2,000 per year, Admiral Members enjoy exclusive perks, increased visibility, and added promotional opportunities throughout the year. See below for more info.
Thank you again for being a vital part of the MIAPBC community. We look forward to continuing to serve you and growing together in 2026!
Click here to login and renew your membership online!
Click here to advertise in the 2025-26 Boaters' Directory!
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MIAPBC will be recognizing members with 10, 20, and 30 years of membership on January 27, in addition to the awards below.
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
Please complete and return the nomination form below. Please write a few lines explaining why you feel this person or company deserves to be Member of the Year. Please cite specific achievements.
MARINE ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR Presented to an individual, group, or organization whose work is recognized as supporting, promoting, and protecting the sound growth of the marine industry in Palm Beach County for the benefit and education of the boating public, and for the boating environment we enjoy. (Does not need to be MIAPBC member)
MARINE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Awarded to the business that initiated, is responsible for, defended, promoted, or otherwise supported enhanced boating opportunities in Palm Beach County. (Must be MIAPBC member in good standing)
Martin E. Murphy Sr.
MIAPBC MEMBER OF THE YEAR Awarded to an association member who has been dedicated to the perpetuation of the highest ideals, trust, and professionalism for the industry. If the award is given posthumously, the recipient must have been a member prior to his or her demise.
OTHER (If you have a person or organization that does not fit into the above award categories, but you feel they should still be considered for an award of excellence, please list them on the nomination form.)
JUDGING
The nominees will be reviewed and voted on by the MIAPBC Membership Committee.
DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS: December 12!
We invite you to nominate your candidates of choice for the annual membership awards. Download the packet below and email it to assistant@marinepbc.org
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30 Year Awards
Barnacle Busters
Marine Business Advisors/US Marina Group
20 Year Awards
Viking Yachts Service Center
10 Year Awards
Downey Yacht Sales
Sybrant Marine Services
The Lacy Wealth Management Group Merrill Lynch
T. Spencer Samuels Insurance & Financial Services
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SAVE THE DATE
Saturday, December 6
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Get excited for our 31st Annual Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade! We are almost 4 weeks away from the brightest night of the year!
Follow us on social media to stay up to date on exciting announcements!
Secure your sponsorship below.
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Boaters – don’t miss your chance to shine on the water!
- Register by November 19 to be eligible to win $500 and PBIBS Winward VIP passes.
- All registered boats will be entered to win a $250 raffle prize.
- New this year: We’ve eliminated the refundable $50 deposit for boats registered by November 19!
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Calling all first-timers: All NEW boats in the parade are competing for the Rookie of the Year award and exciting prizes.
⛵ Sign up today and make this holiday season unforgettable!
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Presenting Sponsor: $15,000 - SOLD
Admiral Sponsor: $10,000 - MULTIPLE AVAILABLE
VIP Viewing Party Hospitality Sponsor: $5,000 - SOLD
Judging Sponsor: $5,000 - ONLY 1 AVAILABLE
Awards Sponsor: $5,000 - ONLY 1 AVAILABLE
Fireworks Destination Sponsor: $5,000 - MULTIPLE AVAILABLE
Shirt Sponsor: $4,000 - SOLD
Valet Sponsor: $3,000 - SOLD
Photo Booth Sponsor: $3,000 - SOLD
Captain Sponsor: $2,500 - MULTIPLE AVAILABLE
First Mate Sponsor: $1,000 - MULTIPLE AVAILABLE
Bosun Sponsor: $500 - MULTIPLE AVAILABLE
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Join us for 2026 Standards Week!
January 11–15, 2026
YOU have a place in making boating safer. Join the conversation during Standards Week and stay ahead of the curve in the development of boating safety standards. Project Technical Committee (PTC) meetings are scheduled throughout the week, Monday through Thursday at the Francis Marion Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina.
PTC Meetings:
- Thermal Appliance
- Electrical
- Hull Performance
- Fuel and Ventilation
Other events during the week include the Standards Week Kick-Off Mixer and ABYC's Annual Meeting.
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New Season. New Shows. New reasons to love The Palm Beaches TV.
We’re turning up the energy with 36 hours of new content packed with adventure, flavor, and fun. From coastal escapes to culinary journeys, the new lineup - featuring fresh faces and new places – captures the vibrant spirit of Palm Beach County, Florida. Watch NOW to see what’s coming soon to PBTV and then get out and experience the very best of The Palm Beaches for yourself.
Watch now 24/7 On Demand: https://www.thepalmbeaches.tv/vod/
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Marine environment relies on strong boating industry - Opinion
It takes a vibrant marine industry to lift all boats, the economy and preserve Florida's water environment
Alyssa Freeman
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While the Palm Beach International Boat Show continues to grow its presence in South Florida, the marine industry continues to face critical challenges that threaten the future of its workforce and the ecological health of our waterways and oceans. With an aging pool of skilled marine industry professionals and the growing environmental concerns, it’s more important than ever to invest in marine career programs and ocean conservation education.
The Palm Beach International Boat Show supports these critical community needs through its grant program, the Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back that opens doors to local youth that would have otherwise remained closed.
I’ve seen firsthand how vital the work of our local nonprofits is for the South Florida community. We have come far in meeting our mission to better serve the citizens of Palm Beach County, pledging $500,000 annually to support local nonprofits that advance environmental and educational initiatives. This support is crucial to sustaining our marine industry and protecting our ocean’s ecosystems.
I have been fortunate to witness grant-funded programs open a whole new world of possibilities through the underwriting of high-quality marine programming and projects. Countless youth have been exposed to the marine industry for the first time, immersing children and young adults in marine trade and STEM-related careers.
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ABYC Foundation Hosts Free Educator Forum
Upcoming meeting on November 13 brings together marine service teachers and industry leaders to discuss resources and opportunities
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The ABYC Foundation will host an online Educator Forum on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, offering an afternoon of collaboration and discussion for high school and post-secondary educators, industry trainers, and administrators involved in marine service technology programs.
This free online event provides a valuable platform to share challenges, explore available resources, and discuss opportunities to prepare students for rewarding marine industry careers. Industry professionals are also invited to participate and learn how to collaborate with schools and build a talent pipeline of career-ready students.
The ABYC Foundation is encouraging the marine industry to help spread the word about this event to local schools.
“The Educator Forum is about building connections that strengthen marine education programs and, ultimately, our industry’s workforce,” said Sarah Devlin, ABYC Foundation Accreditation Director. “Whether a school already offers a marine service program or is just getting started, this event offers practical insights and tools to help them succeed.”
The agenda includes:
- Open Discussion for Educators: Exchange ideas, challenges, and solutions with peers—an interactive session that has sparked many of ABYC’s recent education initiatives.
- Notes from SkillsUSA: Learn how to get involved in SkillsUSA and hear insights from David Broadbent, ABYC’s Senior Director of Business Development and new National Marine Service Competition Technical Chair.
- West Marine Pro and Your Students: Discover how ABYC’s partnership with West Marine Pro gives students access to professional accounts and industry discounts.
- What’s New in ABYC Education: Tim Murphy and Mike Bonicker share updates on ABYC’s growing curriculum, including Advanced Marine Systems Technology and Introduction to Boatyard Basics.
To learn more and register free, please visit www.teachboats.org.
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ABYC Launches Online Course for Entry-Level Boatyard Employees
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The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) has launched a new online course, “Introduction to Boatyard Basics,” designed to help newcomers build confidence and skills as they begin rewarding careers in the marine industry.
Boatyards across the country offer a variety of opportunities for both experienced workers and those just entering the field. With an aging workforce, the industry is looking for new talent ready to learn, grow and build lasting careers in the trades. This course helps those hired for general-labor positions businesses by providing a strong foundation for onboarding and orientation.
“Boatyard jobs are plentiful and can’t be sent overseas or replaced by AI,” said Tim Murphy, ABYC education director. “Beyond steady work, these roles offer community, camaraderie and a connection to the waterfront. New neuroscience has demonstrated heightened well-being among people who solve problems with their hands. There’s never been a better time to build a career in the boatyard.”
“Introduction to Boatyard Basics” provides an overview of common general-labor tasks in boatyards, the responsibilities of new employees and what employers look for in team members. It covers day-to-day expectations, while emphasizing safety, professionalism and environmental responsibility that define successful workplaces. Learners also gain insight into specialized roles that may become available as they gain experience.
Topics include:
• Antifouling preparation and coating
• Corrosion protection through anode replacement
• Detailing painted and gelcoated composite surfaces
• Shrink-wrapping for transport or seasonal storage
• Developing safe working practices
• Applying environmentally responsible working practices
For more information about “Introduction to Boatyard Basics,” visit abycinc.org/onlinelearning.
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Below Deck Med star Captain Sandy launches innovative specialty plate designed to feature the spirit of the marine industry
Celebrate Florida’s vibrant maritime culture with the new Boating Capital of the World license plate, now available for pre-sale through Captain Sandy Charities.
Created by Below Deck Mediterranean star Captain Sandy Yawn, this limited edition plate is more than just a way to show your love for boating – it’s a way to give back.
Every purchase helps support Captain Sandy’s mission to expand marine employment opportunities and fund critical job training and education programs throughout Florida. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or searching for the perfect gift, this plate is the ideal way to contribute to Florida’s maritime workforce while proudly showcasing the state’s boating legacy.
Captain Sandy is excited to see this initiative take off and hopes to spot the new plates on the road soon. “Anyone with a passion for the marine industry will love this plate,” she says. “It’s a powerful way to support a cause that impacts so many lives.”
Don’t miss out! Pre-register today and join the movement to strengthen Florida’s maritime industry. Pre-register now at: boatingplate.com
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Dealer Week: Boating Industry’s Only Event Focused on Dealer Growth December 7 to 10, 2025 | Tampa Convention Center | Tampa, FL
We’re proud to support Dealer Week, hosted by the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), as the must-attend conference for marine dealers looking to Prepare For What’s Next.
This conference brings together top industry experts and solution providers to help dealers navigate today’s most pressing challenges. With educational sessions built around three key pathways: Leadership, Sales & Marketing, and Service & Parts. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to improve your operations, strengthen your team, and drive success into the next season.
As part of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, you’re eligible for $50 off registration with the discount code: COHOST50
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MICHAEL RYBOVICH & SONS BOAT WORKS
NOW HIRING:
· Boat Builder/Carpenters
· Marine Electricians
· Mechanics
· Painters/Varnishers
Parts Department Associate
Must be bilingual
Must have a strong attention to detail, computer experience, clean driving record, excellent communication skills.
Responsibilities:
- Data entry required (efficiency and accuracy a must)
- Drive company truck for parts pickup
- Have a clean driving record.
- Maintain a clean and organized parts area
- Receiving parts
- Able to work in an open-air parts room.
- No smoking or vaping on property
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
Come join our family-owned and operated custom sportfishing operation in Palm Beach Gardens. Work with some of the best craftsmen in the business!
Call Monday-Friday for additional information: (561) 627-9168
and/or send your resume to: info@michaelrybovichandsons.com
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Executive / Finance & Accounting / Administration
In general, the Accounting Manager is responsible for producing a monthly trial balance to the Controller according to GAAP and Governmental Accounting Standards. In this process the Accounting Manager will work with and coordinate the accounting staff towards this end.
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Position Title: Project Manager
Brief Position Description: The Project Manager position is responsible for developing initial project plans and managing the service projects for Willis Custom Yachts (“WCY”). Job activities will include working with WCY business development department, WCY trade shops, WCY authorized outside contractors and WCY billing department. This position is also responsible for regular project status communication with WCY customers.
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MARINE HVAC Technician/Installer
The HVAC Technician/Installer will be responsible for performing routine maintenance and service repairs on heating, ventilating, air conditioning systems, and marine water maker units. This position will also be responsible for the installation according to specifications and established safety guidelines of new units or replacement parts for existing units. Candidate must be capable of working independently with high attention to detail, ability to troubleshoot and communicate equipment issues, have a plan of action, assess and order parts and supplies needed for each job to completion.
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Job Description: Sales Floor
No. Of Positions Available: 3
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday and Sunday-Thursday 9:30am-6:00pm
Company Overview: Boat Owners Warehouse is a fast-growing, high-volume 60+ year established Marine Distributor and Retailer located in sunny South Florida, with locations throughout the Southeastern US. We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and high-quality products to our customers and community and strive to create a welcoming environment where customers can enjoy a seamless shopping experience.
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MARINE ELECTRONIC SOLUTIONS & SERVICE, LLC
WEST PALM BEACH, FL
Full Time - Monday to Friday
Paid Holidays
Paid education for OEM Brands
This is a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy working with their hands and minds, have a strong attention to detail and thrive in a
collaborative team environment.
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Alyssa Freeman
Executive Director
Paola Pineros
Marketing & Membership Manager
Stephanie Button
Administrative Manager
Rena Blades
PBIBS Director of Community Relations and Government Affairs
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