Tag: boat dealers

First-Time Boat Owner?

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

If you’ve recently become a first-time boat owner, congratulations! There’s a lot to consider and learn when you buy your first boat. We’re here to help you out with a few tips. In brief, here’s a checklist from DiscoverBoating.com:

  1. Secure boat insurance.
  2. Learn how to trailer your boat.
  3. Learn how to launch and retrieve your boat.
  4. Determine where you will store your boat.
  5. Understand basic maintenance requirements.
  6. Stock your boat with the proper equipment.
  7. Follow a pre-departure checklist.
  8. Master basic on-the-water operating skills.
  9. Always practice safe and responsible boating.
  10. Enjoy your new boat!

Now, a bit more about these helpful tips:

Secure Boat Insurance

You need to insure your boat, both for liability and for damage to the boat, and in that regard boat insurance is similar to a policy that covers your automobile. But there are some types of coverage that are specific to boats. For example, a policy with specific fuel-spill liability protects you from clean-up claims or third-party damage caused by the accidental discharge of oil or fuel, if you boat were to sink in a marina. If you have an accident while towing, your boat policy pays to repair or replace the trailer. If your trailer causes injuries to people or damage to property your auto policy should cover the liability. Check both policies to make sure you are covered. Other factors to consider are special requirements for boats in hurricane zones, and boats leaving U.S. waters.

Learn How to Trailer Your Boat

Trailering you boat makes it possible to visit new bodies of water, but for many new boat owners towing safely requires another new skill set that is part of boat ownership. The first item to check is that your tow vehicle is rated to tow the boat you will buy. Check the vehicle owner’s manual carefully to find the maximum tow rating, and the Gross Combined Vehicle Rating (GCVR), which is the weight of the tow vehicle and the boat and trailer; and that weight should include the weight of boat fuel, water and gear. Don’t buy a boat only to discover you’ll need a new truck to tow it.

Learn How to Launch and Retrieve Your Boat

The boat launch ramp has its own etiquette, developed to keep things moving smoothly even on the busiest weekend morning. Knowing the drill will help you keep your stress level down and get your day on the water off to a great start.

Determine Where You Will Store Your Boat

You might store your new boat on its trailer, but where will you park it? Not all communities permit boats to be parked-long-term in a residential driveway. Will your boat trailer fit in your garage? Maybe you need a trailer with a swing-away tongue. There are many other boat-storage options, from a dry stack valet service to mooring in a marina.

Understand Basic Maintenance Requirements

Powerboats and personal watercrafts (PWCs) will require at least annual basic engine maintenance, usually an oil and filter change and a fuel filter change, a change of gearcase lubricant, and perhaps propeller inspection. If you live in a cold climate the boat will need to be “winterized” for off-season storage.

Stock Your Boat with the Proper Equipment

Of course, you’ll need a life jacket (also called a personal flotation device, or PFD) for every person onboard, but what other items are you required to keep on the vessel? Check out our Boat Safety Checklist & Safety Equipment. There are other items that often are not part of a new-boat purchase, including dock lines, and fenders to protect the side of the boat when it’s docked.

Follow a Pre-Departure Checklist

A pilot always files a flight plan before takeoff. You should file a “float plan” with family or friends ashore before heading out for the day, just so someone knows where you are headed and when you expect to return. Check out our Pre-Departure Checklist for more “pre-float” ideas designed to help make your day on the water safe and enjoyable.

Gas gauge getting low? It’s time to re-fuel your boat, which presents two areas of concern. The first is putting the correct fuel in your boat. Consult your owner’s manual for any fuel octane requirements, and note especially that marine engines may not use motor fuel with more than 10 percent ethanol (E10).

Master Basic On-the-Water Operating Skills

If you buy a new boat, a good dealer should give you a thorough walk-through of the boat to show you how all the systems work. Some dealers will even take you out on the water for a demonstration run. But there’s more to operating a boat than knowing how to start the engine and steer the wheel.

Always Practice Safe and Responsible Boating

Safe boating is always fun boating for everyone. Consider taking a boating safety and education course such as those offered by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary or by your state or local authorities.

Enjoy Your New Boat!

You’ve got your boat, and all of your gear. You’ve launched and are head away from shore…now what? There are dozens of ways to make the most of your time on the water—fishing, tubing, skiing and boarding, diving, cruising and camping. Or just drop the anchor in a secluded cove and hang out. The trick is to fit boating to your lifestyle, whether you’re a single with friends, a family, or just looking for a little peace and quiet. A boat a great way to get there.

Greenville Marine & Sport Center

For over 49 years, Greenville Marine & Sport Center has been serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina. We are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer. We offer many brands of boats and engines, and our experienced sales and service staff is excited to help you buy a new or used boat. If you’re looking to buy a new or used boat, look no further! Check out our boat inventory and let us know what catches your eye.

If you haven’t bought your first boat yet because you’re waiting to find the perfect boat, let us help! To contact our boat shop, please call (252) 758-5938. To contact our outdoor shop, please call (252) 758-5945. Come by and see us!

Buying A Boat

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

When is the best time to buy a boat? Each season has its own advantages, but understanding the different seasons for boat-buying can help you find a better deal. Whether you are buying in the height of summer or the chill of winter, knowing how the different seasons affect boat sales can improve your overall shopping and purchase experience.

  1. When is the best time to buy a boat?
  2. Buying new vs. used boats
  3. Why you should buy a boat

When is the Best Time to Buy a Boat?

Spring or Summer

If you were to take a poll of boat owners, you’d likely see that spring and summer are, in general, considered the worst times to buy a boat. These are, after all, the boating seasons—so more people are out buying a boat, driving demand and, in some cases, increasing prices. Because of increased competition for boats and a large pool of people shopping for their next craft, many people avoid shopping in the spring and summer.

However, there’s a reason that so many people want to buy a boat during these months. Summer is boating season, so buying in the spring allows you to prepare for your new activity, and buying in the summer allows you to enjoy the water right away.

Fall

Many people will argue that the fall is the best time for buying a boat. This is because most of the manufacturers start offering discounts around September and October. When demand begins to decline, dealers often provide incentives for buyers in the form of discounts and deep cuts in pricing. For both new and used models, you can often find some of the best prices by searching for a boat during the fall.

In addition to the superior pricing, if you buy a boat in the fall you can use the entire off-season to install equipment and accessories. You can also ensure that there is plenty of time to get the boat ready before the start of next boating season.

Winter, aka Boat Show Season

The winter might seem like an odd time to buy a boat, but many people feel that this is the absolute best time. Why? Because of boat shows! Boat shows bring together a large selection from the most popular manufactures from across the globe, allowing you to explore various models across all ranges of price, size, and style. Exhibitors show off new models and display the latest features, and you can look at many boats from different companies without going from one location to another.

“Boat-show season” usually starts around January and lasts through March, and you can often find great deals at these events. Even dealers in warm climates are trying to sell their year-end inventory, so there is usually a chance for a quality deal even if there is no off-season for boating.

Buy a Boat When You’re Ready

The truth is, there is never a bad time to buy a boat. The best time is when you’re ready for fun and adventure on the water! If you want more information on the best boats, contact us today. We’ll help you make a confident decision on your next boat purchase!

Buying New vs. Used Boats

Why to Buy a Used Boat

Price! You will likely get a much better deal on a used boat than a new one. If you’re buying on a budget, this may be the right choice for you. Like a used car, much of the depreciation value of a used boat has already happened before you’re considering buying it. So what this means: a used boat will hold its value better than a new one.

The disadvantage of buying used is that you can’t always know exactly what you’re paying for. Make sure you’re cautious when buying a used boat, and do a thorough inspection before you buy.

Why to Buy a New Boat

You’ll get exactly what you want. When you buy used, you take what you can get. But when you buy new, you may have the option to customize your boat perfectly to your desires. New boats are clean and shouldn’t have any mechanical issues. For these reasons, this is why many buyers choose to purchase a new boat – for reliability and quality. Manufacturer’s warranties also help!

The disadvantage of buying new is the price. You’ll almost always pay more for a new boat than a relatively similar used one.

Why You Should Buy a Boat

Regardless of what kind of boat you’re thinking about buying,  there are plenty of advantages to owning a boat. If you’re on the fence about buying, let us convince you! Here are several great reasons why you should buy the boat:

Boating reduces stress.

We all know how stressful daily life can be, especially over the last year. Being near water is an instant mood-booster for many people. What’s better than being near water? On it in your own boat! You’ll be happier after you buy that boat.

Boating provides exercise.

Another way to relieve stress, there are so many water sports that you might partake in once you buy a boat. Think water skiing, wakeboarding, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, and even fishing. These recreational activities offer lots of exercise. Get out there!

Owning a boat requires mastering new skills.

You read that right – you’ll have to learn more skills when you own a boat.

Owning a boat can strengthen your relationships.

If you want to take your family out on the weekends, surely spending that quality time together will strengthen your relationships. Boating offers many fun experiences for friends, partners, and families.

Owning a boat makes you part of a fun community.

Being part of the boating community is a great privilege. You’ll meet lots of folks you may not have had a chance to meet without a boat. Make new friends!

There are many more reasons why owning a boat will bring more happiness to your life, but these are just a few. Go for it – buy the boat you’ve had an eye on, and get out into the water!

Greenville Marine

We are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer. For many decades, Greenville Marine & Sports Center has been serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina. We offer many brands of boats and engines—both new and used. Our awesome sales and service staff is excited to help you buy a new or used boat!

If you’re looking to buy a boat, look no further! We’re here to help you make the best decision for you and your future boating life. Check out our boat inventory and let us know how we can help you. To contact our boat shop, please call (252) 758-5938. To contact our outdoor shop, please call (252) 758-5945. Come by and see us!

Storing Your Boat

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

New boat owners and seasoned boat owners have something in common: they need to think through where and how to store their boats. Boat storage is very important when it comes to getting the most out of your new or used boat. You’ve spent money, time, and energy on buying your boat; why not store it so that it can last even longer?

The same goes for taking precautionary steps to protect your boat. What kinds of products can you put on your boat to make sure it stays in tip-top shape? Do you always need to cover it after you take it out for a spin?

In this article, keep reading to learn more about:

  1. Storing your boat during the winter
  2. Protecting your boat from UV damage
  3. Other ways to protect your boat

Storing Your Boat During The Winter

When the leaves start falling, it’s a smart idea to start thinking about where and how you will store your boat for the cold winter months. If you’re planning to store your boat outside, there are some things you should know. A couple of options include:

1. Parking your boat on your property

If you have room on your property and your homeowner’s association allows, some owners choose to store their boats at home on a trailer. It makes it easy to work on your boat, and you don’t have to drive to a storage facility to pick it up.

It’s not for everyone and not best for every type of boat, though. Unless you have a small boat or a large piece of property and space from neighbors, you’ll probably want more room.

Pros

  • You don’t have to pay storage fees.
  • Getting to your boat is easy, and you can hitch up quickly.
  • You can keep an eye on your boat yourself.

Cons

  • Neighbors and homeowners associations may not allow this option.
  • Your boat is still outside and exposed to more elements than indoor storage.
  • If you live in a high-traffic area, your boat could be at risk of burglary.

2. Outdoor boat storage at a self-storage facility

If you’re lucky enough to live in an area where winter never gets too harsh, you may want to opt for an outdoor self-storage facility to store your boat. They’re usually the most cost-effective option and still offer better security than storing your boat on your property.

Pros

  • These facilities are the most cost-effective, especially for larger boats that would otherwise have high slip fees.
  • Security systems and guards help dissuade people from messing with your boat

Cons

  • Even with a good cover, your boat will still be exposed to the elements to some degree.
  • These facilities can sometimes have rodent problems, and curious raccoons and mice can make themselves at home in your boat during the offseason.

3. Covered boat storage at a self-storage facility

A step above completely exposed storage facilities, covered storage lots are still accessible and allow you to keep your boat more protected from the elements. These facilities can usually accommodate boats of all sizes and are also a good choice if you have limited space on your property.

While they’re still technically outdoors, these types of storage offer structural shelter from sun and rain and are a good in-between option for those looking for a little more protection.

Pros

  • More protection from outdoor conditions than only your boat’s cover.
  • Most facilities have a surveillance system, and your boat won’t be exposed to as much foot traffic as in a neighborhood.
  • These types of facilities can be less expensive than entirely indoor boat storage options.

Cons

  • Without full indoor storage, your boat is still somewhat exposed to outdoor conditions.
  • These types of facilities are not everywhere, and there may not be one close enough to where you like to boat to be worth the other benefits.

Protecting Your Boat from UV Damage

Just like you should protect your skin from powerful UV rays, you should think about protecting your boat from UV damage as well. Constant exposure from the sun’s UV rays can cause damage to different parts of your boat, resulting in avoidable repairs and costs.

One of the costliest ways UV light damages your boat is by deteriorating the boat’s gel coat. The gel coat is a layer of resin that acts as the outer skin to your boat’s hull or deck and is often pigmented to give your boat its color. Its main purpose is to protect the fiberglass layers underneath from any water or moisture. Even the best gel coats will require maintenance since they are the first layer of defense from the elements. UV rays will break down the pigment in gel coats and cause your boat’s color to fade to a dull shade of its former self. They can also cause the outer surface to turn chalky and deteriorate your gel coat over time. The best way to maintain and protect your gel coat is by regularly cleaning and waxing your boat.

Sunlight and UV rays are also very damaging to your boat’s interior. The most common form of interior damage is discoloration. Nothing is sadder than seeing your once vibrant upholstery now look dull, faded, or cracked. The light from the sun causes chemical reactions to the pigments in vinyl and fabrics, causing them to fade. Depending on what fabric is used for your upholstery (vinyl, leather, suede, etc.), the rate of fading will differ, but they all will eventually lose their vibrance after prolonged exposure to the sun. The best way to protect your interior is to use a boat cover when your boat is not in use.

Owning a boat is a big investment, so it is important to take care of it as best as you can. Even though being out on the water on a sunny day can be a great joy, those sunny days can add up and become an invisible threat if proper maintenance is not performed. Regularly cleaning, waxing, and covering your boat will allow it to look as good on its fifth year as it did on its first. The time and energy you put into taking care of your investment will save you from having to burn cash on reupholstering or applying a new layer of gel coat to your boat.

The intense heat can lead to cracked and chipped paint, warped floorboards and railings, and melted plastics. On top of the heat, the summer sees a lot of storms, especially in this part of North Carolina; severe rain can also damage your boat’s surface. 

Other Ways to Protect Your Boat

There are a few ways to make sure your boat is in pristine condition this season.

  1. Full scale clean: Make sure you deep clean your boat at least once a season to get rid of any large particulates and other debris that can cause the surface to chip.
  2. Protectant: This will protect the boat’s material and gel coat. It will prevent them from fading or oxidizing under the torturous heat of the sun. You should always use a heavy-duty product such as a polymer. You will need to reapply the protectant each time you take your boat out on the water.
  3. Rinse after Every Outing: If you’re out in the ocean, make sure to rinse your boat out with freshwater. This gets rid of any abrasive salts and stops the spread of invasive species. 
  4. Cover! Cover! Cover!: You should always cover your boat when you are not using it. Leaving it exposed to the weather elements is a bad idea. The heat from the sun will increase the oxidation process. And harsh weather like hail can damage glass and plastic. 

So whether you’re out on the lake or taking your boat for a spin on the great sea, make sure you take protective measures for your boat. A damaged boat can lead to serious consequences. 

At Greenville Marine & Sports Center, we are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer. For over 50 years, we’ve been serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina. We offer many brands of boats and engines, and our experienced sales and service staff is excited to help you buy a new or used boat.

How to Load a Boat onto a Trailer | Boat Dealers | Greenville NC | Rocky Mount NC

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

The perfect ending for a day on the water starts with a stress-free retrieval of your boat—which includes successfully loading it back on its trailer for a safe trip home. Here are some simple step-by-step instructions for navigating that process.

  1. Start by idling up to the launch-ramp dock, and putting your vehicle driver and crew ashore. While they walk up to the parking lot and prepare to back down the ramp, you can idle and wait out of the way.
  2. When you see your tow vehicle backing down the ramp, get the boat in position.
  3. The driver should put the vehicle in park and set the parking brake.
  4. Your driver can now be ready to hop on the trailer tongue or step into the water to help secure the boat on the trailer.
  5. The trailer should be backed into the water as straight as possible, and at a depth that allows the boat to float over the rear two-thirds of the trailer bunks.
  6. Now, you can idle the boat over the bunks, aligning the bow peak with the trailer bow stop.
  7. If the ramp is shallow you may need to trim your outboard motor or sterndrive up a bit so the prop doesn’t hit bottom.
  8. When the boat bumps the bow stop on the winch post, or gets close, your helper can clip the winch strap to the bow eye, and use the winch to pull the boat up snug to the winch post, and then secure the safety chain.
  9. If the boat ends up a little crooked on the trailer, try backing down the ramp just a little to allow the boat to float and center itself. Now tilt the motor or drive up, and the vehicle driver can slowly pull the boat and trailer up the ramp.
  10. Just as when launching, you’ll want to pull your rig out of the way of ramp activity to unload gear and prepare the trailer and boat for the highway.

We are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer. For many decades, Greenville Marine & Sports Center has been serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina. We offer many brands of boats and engines—both new and used. Our awesome sales and service staff is excited to help you buy a new or used boat!

If you’re looking to buy a boat, look no further! We’re here to help you make the best decision for you and your future boating life. Check out our boat inventory and let us know how we can help you. To contact our boat shop, please call (252) 758-5938. To contact our outdoor shop, please call (252) 758-5945. Come by and see us!

Get Ready to Go Boating! | Boat Dealers | Greenville NC | Rocky Mount NC

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

Even though it’s cold this week in North Carolina, it has started to feel like spring recently! And you know what that means: it’s time to get out on the water! Whether your boat has been sitting out in the weather all winter (we hope not), or stored somewhere safe, you’ll need to de-winterize your boat for the spring time before you start it up and hit the water. Keep reading to find out everything you’ll need to do once you take off your boat’s winter coat in order to get out on the water!

De-Winterizing Your Boat for Spring

The major systems that need de-winterizing include:

  • Engines
  • Plumbing Systems
  • Batteries and Electrical Systems

In addition to de-winterizing systems, other spring commissioning tasks may include:

  • Removing a Winter Cover
  • Cleaning and Waxing
  • Painting the Bottom
  • Taking Care of Teak

Spring Commissioning for Plumbing Systems

Boats that have freshwater systems, heads with holding tanks, sinks, and showers, should have been treated with antifreeze in the fall. This means that now you’ll need to flush these hoses and lines with freshwater, until you’re absolutely sure all the antifreeze has been washed away.

  1. Fill all the tanks up.
  2. Open all the faucets and showers.
  3. Let them run until you stop seeing any discoloration from the pink, non-toxic, propylene glycol antifreeze.
  4. Then let them run for a minute or two more, just to be sure the lines are completely flushed out.

Spring Commissioning for Batteries & Electrical Systems

In most cases, the only thing you’ll need to do to get your boat’s marine battery ready for the new season is make sure it’s in place, hooked up properly, and fully charged. Many people remove the batteries from the boat and put them on a maintenance-charger over the winter, so in this case they’ll need to be put back into the boat with the leads properly connected. Even if your batteries stayed aboard, however, don’t neglect to hook up a charger before you try launching the boat—the number-one problem boaters report encountering on a spring shake-down cruise is a low or dead battery.

Come see us!

At Greenville Marine & Sports Center, we are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer. For many decades, we’ve been serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina. We offer many brands of boats and engines, and our experienced sales and service staff is excited to help you buy a new or used boat.

If you’re looking to buy a new or used boat, look no further! We’re here to help you make the best decision for you and your future boating life. Check out our boat inventory and let us know what catches your eye.

We are located at 3600 Greenville Boulevard in Greenville, NC. To contact our boat shop, please call (252) 758-5938. To contact our outdoor shop, please call (252) 758-5945. Come by and see us from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday, or 8:30 am to 12:30 pm on Saturday. We can’t wait to work with you!

What Not to Do When Boating | Boat Dealers | Greenville NC | Rocky Mount NC

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

If you’re a new boat owner, there are some important things you should avoid doing out in the water. Everyone has to start somewhere – we all did – but you’ll be a better boat owner if you’re prepared.

For over 49 years, Greenville Marine & Sports Center has been serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina. We are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer. We offer many brands of boats and engines, and our experienced sales and service staff is excited to help you buy a new or used boat. If you’re looking to buy a new or used boat, look no further! Check out our boat inventory and let us know what catches your eye.

Even if you don’t own a boat yet, let us help however we can! To contact our boat shop, please call (252) 758-5938. To contact our tackle,gun and archery shop, please call (252) 758-5945. Come by and see us!

Keep reading to learn about 10 common mistakes when it comes to boating.

1. Failing to Check the Marine Weather Forecast

Tuning in to marine weather prior to each and every trip is a must, unless you want to be surprised by gusty winds, rough seas, and sudden storms. And remember, this means marine weather, not those regular land-based forecasts which regularly post lower wind speeds and no sea conditions.

2. Running Aground

Running a ground is a lot more common than you might think, and can have varying degrees of severity depending on where you do your boating. On a soft mud or sand bottom it’s usually no big deal, but in a rocky harbor, hitting bottom can do some serious damage. You cannot see what is in dark water. Use the local marker buoys.

The solution? Always be aware of where you are and what the local underwater hazards may be. And when in doubt, slowing down is a good idea.

3. Forgetting to Keep Up with Regular Maintenance

Making this mistake can have very serious consequences, especially when it comes to your boat’s propulsion systems. Be sure to peruse these Boat Maintenance pages, create a schedule, and stick to it.

4. Hitting the Dock

There’s an old saying among boaters, and it has a lot of value when it comes to making this mistake: never approach a dock faster than you’re willing to hit it. Even when you’re doing everything right, a sudden power loss or mechanical problem can strike. The net result? Boat, meet dock. Dock, meet boat. Crunch!

5. Running Out of Gas

As you might guess, this is one of the most common mistakes people make. Remember that fuel consumption and your boat’s range can be changed by factors like sea conditions and load. Making matters worse, fuel gauge readings can change as fuel sloshes in the tank, and the fuel gauges on boats are often not as reliable as those found in automobiles in the first place.

As a result, smart boaters will stick with the following formula: use one third fuel capacity going out, use one third coming back, and save one third in reserve.

6. Forgetting to Put in the Drain Plug

This is another mistake that’s all too familiar to many of us, especially trailer-boaters, who commonly remove the plug between uses. No wonder it earns a mention in our article How to Launch a Boat, which we hope all trailer-boaters read through, in any case.

7. Overloading the Boat

This miscalculation can be downright dangerous, so always keep track of the weight of both people and gear when you’re loading up the boat. Check the boat’s capacity plate to make sure you’re in the safe zone, if you haven’t already memorized your boat’s maximum capacity.

8. Getting Lost

Although this happens less and less on the water these days thanks to modern marine electronics and navigation instruments it does still happen. And any electrical systems can have gremlins, so you need to always be aware of your location and how to get home regardless of what electronics you have aboard.

9. Putting Out Insufficient Anchor Line

Anchoring a boat seems like a simple task: just drop down the anchor, cleat off the line, and the boat will stay put… right? Not necessarily.

Even in calm seas if you don’t let out enough line to match three times the depth, the anchor may well pull free. And in a breeze, a “scope” (length of anchor line) of 5:1 or 7:1 as compared to water depth is considered minimal. When it’s rough out, 10:1 may be necessary.

10. Running the Engine Dry

The vast majority of marine engines (excluding air-cooled and electric engines) require a supply of water for cooling purposes. But not only does the water cool the engine, it also lubricates the water pump impeller commonly found in most marine propulsion systems. Run a boat motor while it’s on dry land without a sufficient water supply, and it will overheat, the impeller will be damaged, or both.

Happy New Year! | Boat Dealers | Greenville NC | Rocky Mount NC

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

Happy New Year from all of us at Greenville Marine & Sports Center! We wanted to remind you of what we do here. We are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer; we’ve been proudly serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina for almost 50 years. We deal brands , G3 Boats, Cypress Cay Pontoons, May-Craft, Nautic Star, Robalo, Tidewater, and Phoenix Bass Boats. We also sell Yamaha and Mercury engines. Our experienced sales and service staff would love to help you with a new or used boat purchase! Now’s a GREAT time to buy a boat!

Stop by and visit our great outdoor shop, which is stocked with tackle, rods and reels, clothing, sunglasses, guns, hunting supplies, archery, and even an archery range. Come check us out! Buy local – you won’t be disappointed! 

If you’re looking to buy a new or used boat, look no further! Check out our boat inventory and let us know what catches your eye. 

We have stayed open through the pandemic, and we hope that you will support our business. We want to get you ready for a great summer full of boating, fishing, archery, sun, and fun. Check out our boat inventory and also our outdoor shop. We’re sure to have what you’re looking for! 

We are located at 3600 Greenville Boulevard in Greenville, NC. To contact our boat shop, please call (252) 758-5938. To contact our outdoor shop, please call (252) 758-5945. Come by and see us from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, or 8:30 am to 12:00 pm on Saturday. We can’t wait to see you. Happy New Year from Greenville Marine & Sport Center! 

Why You Should Buy a Boat During Winter | Boat Dealers | Greenville NC | Rocky Mount NC

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

You read that right: you should buy a boat this winter! Many folks considering buying a boat may not think that winter is the best time to buy a boat, and really, any time you want to buy a boat is the right time. But while summer is the most popular time to buy a boat, there may be a better time: winter.

Boats are more expensive during summer.

Why would you want to buy a boat and then wait several months to be able to use it? The answer is simple: it’ll save you money. Higher demand means prices go up, so consider buying your boat during the off-season.

You get a better selection.

Going back to supply and demand, if demand is higher for boats in the summer, then there will be more competition over the same boats. But during winter, you’ll have a better pick of boats on the market, and you’re more likely to get exactly the boat you’ve been wanting.

You can get exactly the specifications you’ve been dreaming of.

Buying a new boat comes with a whole host of specifications for you to choose from. From the color of the upholstery to the electronics, to the type of engine these boats are often built to order. And the waiting lists can be several months long. Place your order in spring and summer and you may very well miss the entire season waiting impatiently for your boat to arrive. Plan ahead, however, and get your order in during winter and you can wait slightly more patiently for your perfect customized boat to be delivered right in time for the boating season to kick off.

You can spend the whole winter getting your boat ready.

This is especially relevant for used boats which may need a little work or maintenance. Buying in the winter months means you have plenty of time to get it shipshape and ready for a long season of cruising. You’ll find at this time that there is less pressure on shipyards and, with a few months until you want to start using your boat, you can enjoy a leisurely maintenance or refit schedule. It will also allow you to spread the costs over several months. Buy in the summer and you’ll be chomping at the bit to get going and want all your work done as quickly as possible.

Plus, don’t forget that boating in winter is delightful. Buy that boat ASAP and get out there!

Greenville Marine & Sport Center

At Greenville Marine & Sport Center, we are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer. For over 46 years, we’ve been serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina. We offer many brands of boats and engines, and our experienced sales and service staff is excited to help you buy a new or used boat. If you’re looking to buy a new or used boat, look no further! Check out our boat inventory and let us know what catches your eye. 

To contact our boat shop, please call (252) 758-5938. To contact our outdoor shop, please call (252) 758-5945. Come by and see us!

Boat Parts: Terminology | Boat Dealers | Greenville NC | Rocky Mount NC

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

Whether you’re an old pro in the boating industry or a newcomer, it’s always a good idea to know the parts of a boat. Even if you read or watch boating or marine literature, television shows, or movies, it can get overwhelming to remember all the terminology when it comes to boats.

At Greenville Marine & Sport Center, we are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer. For over 49 years, we’ve been serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina. We offer many brands of boats and engines, and our experienced sales and service staff is excited to help you buy a new or used boat. 

In case you didn’t know, we’re also home to the awesome outdoor shop, in which we sell tackle, rods and reels, clothing, sunglasses, guns, hunting supplies, archery, and we even have an archery range. Buy local – you won’t be disappointed! If you’re looking to buy a new or used boat, look no further! Check out our boat inventory and let us know what catches your eye.

We’re here to help with the basics of boating vocabulary, with a little help from our friends at Boats.com

Berth: A sleeping area on a boat. Also, a place where a boat is tied up.

Bilge: The lowest section of a boat where water typically collects and where your bilge pumps are located.

Bimini: A type of folding canvas top used to shield occupants from rain and sun.

Bow: The forward end of any boat.

Bulkhead: Typically a transverse structural component in a boat that often supports a deck.

Cabin: An enclosed and protected area on a boat.

Casting Platform: A raised, open deck on a fishing boat used for casting a fishing rod.

Chine: The part of a boat where its hull sides and bottom intersect.

Cleat: A metal or plastic fitting used to securely attach a line.

Coaming: Raised edges, or sides, designed to help keep waves and water from entering a certain area of a boat.

Cockpit: Any semi-enclosed, recessed area that is lower than the surrounding decks, such as the cockpit of a sailboat or a center-console powerboat.

Companionway: An entryway that provides access to the below-decks spaces on a boat.

Console: A raised area above the deck or cockpit that occupants often sit or stand behind while the boat is underway. It is also where the steering of the vessel is done.

Deck: Essentially any exposed, flat exterior surface on a boat that people stand on.

Dinette: An area for dining on a boat, typically with a table set between two seating areas.

Flybridge: A steering station, sometimes with a small entertaining space, built atop a boat’s cabin. It’s also sometimes called a ‘flying bridge’.

Foredeck: The forward-most deck on a boat.

Galley: An area on a boat where food is prepared.

Gunwale: The top edge of a boat’s hull sides.

Hardtop: A supported fiberglass or composite roof-like external structure that covers a portion of a boat.

Hatch: The cover or door that closes over any opening in a boat’s deck or cabin top.

Head: The bathroom on a boat.

Helm: The area of a boat where the steering and engine controls are located.

Hull: The physical portions of a boat that sit in the water.

Inboard Engine: An engine that is mounted inside the hull of a boat.

Jib: Generally the smaller of two or more sails on a sailboat, flown forward of the mast.

Jump Seats: Small, pop-up seats usually located in the aft cockpit of a powerboat.

Lifelines: Cables or lines used to prevent people or gear from falling overboard.

Livewell: A specialized compartment on a boat designed to keep fish, shrimp, and other fishing bait alive.

Locker: An area on a boat where gear is stowed.

Mainsail: Generally the largest sail on a sailboat.

Mast: A vertical structure, usually made of aluminum, which supports sails on a sailboat.

Keel: The lowest portion of a boat’s hull as it sits in the water. Also, a hull appendage that improves stability.

Outboard Well: A recessed area on a boat just forward of where an outboard engine is mounted.

Outboard Engine: An engine that is generally mounted to the transom of a boat that has a self-contained engine block, transmission, and lower drive unit.

Pod Drives: Inboard engines mounted above articulating drive units that protrude through the bottom of the boat.

Propeller: A rotating device that is paired with an engine to propel a boat through the water.

Rigging: The lines and wires that support and help control a spar or mast.

Rubrail: A protective outer element on the hull sides that helps protect the hull from damage.

Rudder: A vertical hull appendage that controls steering.

Saloon: A room in the cabin on a boat that’s usually the primary entertaining area.

Scuppers: Deck drains that channel water from rain and spray overboard.

Sheer Line: The outline of a boat’s deck at the gunwale or hull-deck joint from bow to stern.

Stateroom: An enclosed cabin in a boat with sleeping quarters.

Stern: The aft-most section of a boat’s hull.

Stern Drive: A propulsion system consisting of an inboard engine with a steerable drive system that is mounted to the transom.

Swim Platform: A structure on the stern of a boat designed to make getting in and out of the water easier.

T-Top: A metal structure on a boat that is usually topped with a section of canvas or a hard top to protect occupants from sun, spray, and rain.

Tiller: A wood, metal, or composite handle that is connected to the rudder(s) or a small outboard and used to steer a boat.

Toerail: A wood or fiberglass rail or fiddle located around the outside edge of a boat’s deck, usually situated near where the hull sides meet the deck.

Topsides: The portion of a boat’s hull that is above the waterline.

Transom: The aft-most section of a boat that connects the port and starboard sections of the hull.

Trim Tabs: Adjustable metal plates on a powerboat’s hull bottom or transom that help adjust the boat’s running attitude, pitch, and roll as it moves through the water. On a sailboat, a single trim tab may be located on the aft edge of the keel to help the boat steer better in certain conditions.

V-Berth: A berth that is situated in the bow of a boat.

Waterline: The line around a boat’s hull where it intersects the water.

How Are Boats Built? | Boat Dealers | Greenville NC | Rocky Mount NC

Posted on by Randy Hobbs

Who is Greenville Marine & Sport Center? We are your local boat, motor, and trailer dealer, and we’ve been serving Pitt and Beaufort counties and Eastern North Carolina for 49 years. Check out the brands we deal, and let us know if we can special order anything for you. Our experienced sales and service staff would love to help you with a new or used boat purchase!

Have you ever wondered how a boat is built? Unlike the way that antique and classic powerboats were built, modern fiberglass boats are built using high-tech methods. From Boats.com, here’s a little bit about how new boats are made:

Prior to the development of fiberglass construction techniques, boats were built of wood, steel, and other materials, by assembling pieces and parts into a structure which was then sheathed with a hull. With fiberglass boat building, however, the major components of the boat – the hull, deck, liner, and large parts like consoles—are molded from fiberglass. Usually, this means starting with a female mold. The mold is first sprayed with gelcoat, then fiberglass cloth is applied, and then resin is used to saturate or “wet out” the fiberglass. When the resin cures, you have a hull or a boat part (for an explanation of the different boat parts, see our Beginner’s Guide to Boat Terminology).

Structural reinforcements like stringers and bulkheads can be molded separately and then fiberglassed to the part, or may in some cases be laid up at the same time. While the hull is still open and exposed, items that will be located below deck level like fuel and water tanks or inboard engines can be mounted. This is also when plumbing and wiring may be run. Then the major components are assembled. For most modern powerboats, that means the deck and/or liner is lifted, often with a crane, and lowered into the hull.

Many boats are designed with a “shoe-box” joint where the hull and deck have mating flanges, or overlap one another. Often mechanical fasteners such as screws or through-bolts are used to secure the parts together, in addition to the use of a chemical bonding agent and sealant like methyl methacrylate or 3M 5200, which also makes the joint water-tight. Additionally, some build fiberglass around the perimeter of the hull to deck joint.

With the major parts of the boat assembled, interior fittings like seats and steering wheels can then be added. Finally, the details and finishing touches can be taken care of.

Visit the article “Boat Building: Basic Construction of Resin, Fiberglass, and Cores” to learn more.

When you’re looking to buy a new or used boat, look no further! Check out our boat inventory at Greenville Marine and let us know what catches your eye. We are located at 3600 Greenville Boulevard in Greenville, NC. To contact our boat shop, please call (252) 758-5938. To contact our outdoor shop, please call (252) 758-5945. Come by and see us from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday, or 8:30 am to 12:30 pm on Saturday. Come on in!