Looking to build on a successful 2011 campaign, the Marina Operators of The Bahamas (MOB) is particularly optimistic that the organization is poised for more steady growth and exposure in the new year.
The only marina organization of its kind in The Bahamas, the MOB is confident that its upward momentum will carry through into 2012, with growth already seen in membership and activity over 2011, according to a group executive.
"Our membership has already jumped from 9 to 52 members since we were formed two years ago, and the growth that we are having is pretty remarkable," said MOB manager Shamine Johnson. "We're very optimistic going forward."
One of the highlights for the organization was a $40,000 grant it received from the Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE), aimed at developing the marina and enhancing its marketing and strategic vision.  The MOB also became a part of the Caribbean Marine Association (CMA) in June, creating more exposure throughout the region.
A detailed map was also launched by the group, which outlined all of the marinas in The Bahamas for visitors to use as a reference.  An advertising campaign is also in the works for the map, which marinas can use to market their businesses to prospective customers.
The growth in the country's marina sector was not without its challenges, with one of the major ones being high diesel prices throughout the year.  The rising diesel costs made it more difficult for marinas to maintain current profit margins and a high customer base.  The MOB was also active in trying to improve the current boat theft laws, lobbying for an amendment.
The optimism of the group can be seen in the actions of its members, with a Family Island marina operator looking to bounce back after a year filled with challenges, seeking a 10 percent rise in business in 2012.
Owner of Flying Fish Marina on Long Island, Mario Cartwright, told Guardian Business recently that 2011 had its fair share of ups and downs, but despite the challenges he is very optimistic about 2012.
"It has been reasonably steady for 2011, yacht sales have been a little depressed globally but as far as yachting in general we had a solid year," Cartwright said.  "It's the way the business works, it's been up and down all year but for the most part we are looking to improve in 2012."
While Cartwright deemed 2011 a decent year, he admitted that the season had its fair amount of rough stretches.
An unexpected problem came in the form of Hurricane Irene, which caused some damage and thousands of dollars in repairs.  However, Cartwright added that he caught a break when the hurricane arrived during the slower part of the marina season.  However, he realizes that such incidents come with the territory and he is optimistic he will have a strong 2012.
"I feel that 2012 will be a great year for marinas in The Bahamas, and the amount of work the MOB has done to increase the global exposure of marinas is very commendable," Cartwright said.
"I have been here from the start and I believe that the improvement in the global economy will create a domino effect that will translate into growth for the organization and the marina sector in The Bahamas."

Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian