Hometown News and Views

By Phyllis J. Neuberger

What could be more exciting for boaters than a career in brokering and selling boats?

For Anthony Censoplano, manager of the beautiful Lighthouse Point showroom at 2600 N. Federal Highway and Dan Fry, Sales, that’s the story.

Fry, a lifelong sailor and boat enthusiast, says “We both love talking about boats. We’ve both had long careers in sales, so brokering, selling, and trade-ins are fascinating subjects. Now to be able to offer customers the top of the line new models by Pursuit and ShearWater is fantastic. Our exciting storefront, Ocean Blue’s third in South Florida, will have a grand opening on Feb. 22 and 23, right after the Miami Boat Show.”

Censoplano adds, “Some of our best-selling models will be on display at the Miami Boat Show including Center Consoles, Dual Consoles, and Off Shore boats.”

Ocean Blue’s new boat offerings include ShearWater and Sterling boats, which come in a range of 17- to 27-feet.  They are shallow water fishing boats for in-shore fishing.  Ocean Blue is the exclusive dealer for Pursuits in this area.  Pursuits have in their lineup of boats, those that can go after that “big fish” and others that offer the comfort of cruisers that can make the trip to the Bahamas easily.

He is quick to remind readers that Ocean Blue is also a boat brokerage business that can sell the public’s used boats. “We love showing and selling our new inventory, but we also sell used boats and take in trade-ins.”

Censoplano has high praise for Pursuit. “It’s the Rolls Royce of boats,” he says. “Pursuit has introduced what has to be the most exciting boat in the water. It will be the talk of the Miami Boat Show where the Pursuit SC365i, a new innovative design, will be seen there by boat owners from around the world.  Pursuit, considered to be one of the top quality manufacturers of yachts and fishing boats, has earned its reputation since launching in 1977. It’s a division of S2 Yachts based in Holland, Michigan.”

What makes this new power boat unique is that this twin Yamaha outboard powered cruiser has a fully enclosed engine compartment. In addition, its single-piece, laminated, bonded windshield system is fully integrated with the fiberglass hardtop and comes with a large sunroof to bring the outdoors in on those magical days.

The forward convertible dinette becomes a forward berth when seats are pulled inboard. Single or twin bed arrangements allow four adults to sleep overnight in complete comfort. This SC365i is the most exciting sport yacht to hit the market.”

Tom Russel is one Pursuit owner who can’t say enough good things about this manufacturer. “I have two Pursuits.  I can say there is no finer boat made. The wiring, the parts, the design and the performance in rough water can’t be beat. I bought my first one new in 1985, and it’s still great. I’ve fished the waters of Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and the Atlantic Ocean endless times. I just bought my second Pursuit. It’s 10 years old, and the hull is perfect.  It’s almost a 30-ft. fishing boat. You’re talking to me while I’m on it in the Keys. This one is air conditioned and sleeps two comfortably, four in a pinch.  It has a great shower and bathroom I love it. Just like Anthony says, it’s the Rolls Royce of boats with a top resale value.”

According to Fry, the opening of the new store in Lighthouse Point means clients can enjoy the same great service they’ve had in the two other Pursuit locations in Stuart and Cape Canaveral.  The owners of this three-location dealership are Managing Partners, Joseph Yeni, Jr. and Brian Boyd.  Fry and Censoplano are eager to show their new and used vessels.  “We’re both so proud to be representing and selling these fine boats, but don’t wait for the show; we are open now.” says Fry.

Open Mon. to Fri. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sat. 9 to 4; Sun by appointment only.

Call 954-366-4311 for further information.