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The MIAPBC office will be CLOSED from 12/23/25 through 1/4/26. The MIAPBC Board of Directors and Staff wish you all a very merry holiday season!
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We are still on cloud nine after this year’s Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade and toy drive. The 40+ boats looked amazing this year. The volunteer boats collecting toys with Marines loaded more than 7,000 toys onto All My Sons moving trucks thanks to our amazing community. The fireworks lit up the sky like the Fourth of July. We want to thank all our sponsors for helping make this possible, including our presenting sponsor Lessing’s Hospitality Group. For all the photos and more details from this year’s boat parade scroll down. If you want to watch the entire parade, you can on WPBF Facebook or YouTube page!
Earlier in November we participated in Discover the Palm Beach’s State of the Tourism Industry event where they shared the impressive record tourism numbers from the past year. We also celebrated Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park at their annual gala.
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What’s next?! Well, MIAPBC is celebrating 40 years in 2026 and to kick it off we will host our annual member awards dinner on January 26 presented by MarineMax. We hope you can join us!
Also, don’t forget to renew your business membership dues by the end of the year to keep your same membership pricing! If you want to upgrade to a multi-year membership or Admiral membership, we can help with that, too! Business membership dues will go up by $50 starting January 1. The MIAPBC office will be closed December 23 through January 4 for the holidays.
On behalf of all the staff and the Board of MIAPBC, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and Happy Hannukah and New Year!
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DudeBro Charters
Brad Childs
Brad87chiilds@gmail.com
Dudebrocharters.com
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Keywest Sterling Silver Company
Saundra McGuckian
Info@keyweststerlingsilver.com
Keyweststerlingsilver.com
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Boat Owners Warehouse, 17 years
The Lacy Wealth Management Group Merrill Lynch, 10 years
Dockside Petroleum Services, Inc., 4 years
Corcoran Partners, 3 years
Graze Craze North Palm Beach, 1 year
The Billfish Foundation, 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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2025 PALM BEACH HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE WINNERS
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BEST OF PARADE: NAUTI KITTY
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FAN FAVORITE: PINK PONY PONTOON
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ROOKIE OF THE YEAR: WHIZ WHIT
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1st Place: PALM BEACH PETER BOAT
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2nd Place: FISHFUL THINKING
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2025 PALM BEACH HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE ALBUMS
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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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Palm Beach International Boat Show to Utilize New Clean Energy System in 2026
West Palm Beach’s downtown waterfront will receive an upgraded electrical infrastructure to reduce the Palm Beach International Boat Show’s carbon footprint.
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In a groundbreaking partnership between Informa Markets, Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC), the City of West Palm Beach, and Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), the Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS) will undergo a transformative upgrade of clean energy with the installation of a permanent electrical infrastructure at the downtown waterfront in West Palm Beach. The new energy system will be fully installed and operational for the 2026 Palm Beach International Boat Show, from March 25 to March 29.
Transitioning the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront to an electrical power grid will significantly reduce PBIBS’s carbon footprint by eliminating the need for diesel generators, which are a major source of direct emissions. It will also improve the overall quality of life for the West Palm Beach community and deliver a premium event experience for PBIBS exhibitors and attendees. Stretching 1,200 feet along Flagler Drive from Evernia Street to North Clematis Street, the new infrastructure will feature a large-scale power system rated at 9000 amperes and 480 volts, four FPL transformers, and three, heavy-duty electrical switches, each rated at 3000 amperes and 480 volts.
“This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and our shared vision for a sustainable future,” added Andrew Doole, president of U.S. Boat Shows with Informa Markets. “By partnering with MIAPBC, the city, and FPL, we are not only reducing our environmental impact, but also creating a cleaner, quieter, and more vibrant waterfront for the West Palm Beach community.”
Informa, MIAPBC, the City of West Palm Beach, and FPL are working together to set a new standard for environmentally responsible event management, while also supporting the city’s sustainability and economic development goals. The permanent electrical infrastructure will provide numerous advantages to the local community such as reducing harmful emissions that improve air quality; reducing noise for residents living and working near the waterfront; enhancing public spaces for more attractive and accessible events; and securing West Palm Beach as a leader in sustainability.
“We are excited to be part of this forward-thinking initiative. This project not only enhances the infrastructure for one of the region’s most iconic events, but also demonstrates our commitment to the environment and the well-being of our community,” said Alyssa Freeman, executive director of MIAPBC. “By working together, we are creating a legacy of sustainability and economic growth that will benefit West Palm Beach for years to come.”
PBIBS continues to be a major economic driver for Palm Beach County and has grown exponentially with its recent five-day expansion. Historically, PBIBS has generated more than $1.1 billion in regional economic impact, underscoring its role as a cornerstone of Florida’s tourism and marine business sectors. Since 2023, PBIBS also donated more than $1 million to its grant program, Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back, funding marine-related initiatives that inspire and support the next generation of boating enthusiasts.
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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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Jeff Lichterman, Vice President
Albury Brothers Boats
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It is my privilege to announce Albury Brothers in Florida now has a new President, Adam Lichterman. Adam has earned his title and responsibility, so he is well equipped for continued success.
Adam began building our boats full-time almost 10 years ago, but he was born to the business. He skipped school to attend his first Boat Builders Show (IBEX), when he was only 10 years old. Adam was aboard the first 27 sea trial, also at 10. There was no way he was missing it. In the evening, while still in grade school, Adam helped me sea trial and punch out many of our finished 20's and 23's. He Captained his first 23 trip to Abaco at age 18, I had complete confidence in his ability. He also attended Navy Prep High School for a couple years and is a experienced sailor.
When Adam started full time, he excelled in the Assembly Department, while playing a supporting role in sales and marketing. He built his own personal 23 from beginning to completion at age 23. Five years ago Adam started his own boat building business from scratch. He had an agreement to be the sub-contractor of
our new Limited Edition 23 model. This required Adam to lease a facility, staff and equip it from scratch, and pioneer the resin infusion process.
Adam proved up to the challenge. The team he created successfully built dozens of 23's, plus a few Eastport 32's. 2 years ago I purchased his business and merged it into Albury Brothers. Adam learned to operate the Albury Brothers business in its entirety since then, and has been doing so all of 2025. In addition to all this new responsibility in 2025, he managed to have his first child (a son), and complete two FAU College of Business courses in Financial & Cost Accounting, and Corporate Financial Management.
I am proud to state Adam also has the title of "my son", and I look forward to serving under him.
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Get Certified in the New Year!
Courses are now posted through May 2026
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Start your new year off right! Register for the Marine Standards Certification Course, starting on January 20, 2026. This course equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills to apply ABYC standards effectively in their work, ensuring safety, compliance, and industry excellence.
Not sure if you're ready? Take a quick pre-test to preview the question style and difficulty! No score is needed to enroll. It’s just a smart way to check your readiness.
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Whether you're in a no-wake zone or not, you are responsible for any injury or damage caused by your wake.
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Let's face it, pretty much all powerboats create a wake. Especially on inland waters, where primarily small craft operate, wakes can be dangerous. Common courtesy toward other boaters demands that we control our wakes. However, the consequences of failing to do so go far beyond rude gestures and horn blasts. Because here's the one thing you really have to know about wakes: under the law, damage caused by your wake is treated exactly the same way as damage caused by a physical, fiberglass-crunching collision.
Imagine the following scene: After a long no-wake zone and an even longer wait for a drawbridge to open, a motoryacht is just passing through the opening. In a stroke of luck, a behind-schedule, in-a-hurry sportfish arrives at the drawbridge already open for the yacht ahead. After clearing the drawbridge, both vessels pick up speed, creating significant wakes.
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BoatUS Foundation Launches First National Database to Track Abandoned Boats and Derelict Vessels Across US
Database to support ongoing nationwide effort to remove and prevent ADVs
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The non-profit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water has developed a database that will identify the locations of abandoned and derelict vessels (ADVs) across the U.S., freely associated states and U.S. territories and track their removal.
Created in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program, this national database will allow visitors to report abandoned and derelict vessels on their coastlines, allowing the issue to be better understood on a national scale with the support of the public. Eventually, this database will be able to track the impacts of removal and prevention efforts by showing how the number of ADVs across the country may one day decrease.
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Palm Beach finalizes new rules for anchoring, mooring in the Lake Worth Lagoon
Kristina Webb Palm Beach Daily News
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Palm Beach now has stricter rules for vessels that anchor or moor in the Lake Worth Lagoon.
The Town Council has unanimously granted final approval to the new rules, which prevent most boats from dropping anchor for months or years in the part of the lagoon that sits within Palm Beach's jurisdiction.
The vote was the council's second on the ordinance, which has been met with pushback from some boaters. The measure also faced opposition from the Palm Beach Sailing Club, which sits across the lagoon from Palm Beach in West Palm Beach.
The council's approval Nov. 12 came with little discussion aside from Council Member Ted Cooney, who noted that while he previously voted in opposition to the new rules, he decided to vote in favor of them.
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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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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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