Snead Island Boat Works

choice for boating enthusiasts in the Bradenton area.

History and Location

Snead Island Boat Works is a family-owned and operated company located near Bradenton, Florida, at 34221. Established in 1936, it has become one of the best boat yards on the Gulf Coast, providing quality work and personal attention for more than 80 years. Easily accessible via the Manatee River, it boasts good depth and a natural basin supplied by a natural spring making it an ideal location to service, repair, and build yachts and small commercial vessels¹.

The founder of Snead Island Boat Works, Capt. Jim Alderman, took over operations in 1936. But the site had already been in service as a boat yard for nearly three decades due to the entrepreneurial spirit of Edward Ithamar Pillsbury². Pillsbury started the company on Snead Island in 1907². The Pillsbury Boat Shop was the first building to be constructed at the Snead Island Boat Works and later named in honor of his son, Asa Harmon Pillsbury².

Situated to the west of Palmetto, Florida, Snead Island is a small island that is primarily residential³. In addition to the Snead Island Boat Works, there are two private dry boat storage facilities or boatworks located on the island³. Remnants of a former palm tree nursery can also be found on the island³.

Snead Island Boat Works has a rich history and tradition of quality craftsmanship. Over the years, the company has worked on various boats, including a 1926 built towboat and assist boat constructed by Capt. Bat Fogarty⁴. Today, the company continues to serve the boating community of the Bradenton area.

Marina Facilities

Slips and Storage

Snead Island Boat Works offers a total of 75 slips for various boat sizes, providing ample docking space for vessels visiting or staying long-term. In addition to the slips, the marina provides dry storage options for boats that need protection during the stormy offseason. Boats stored in dry storage are blocked and secured with straps rated to withstand hurricane-force winds, ensuring their safety throughout the hurricane season.

Amenities

The marina offers various amenities to make any boater's experience enjoyable, including:

• Haul-out services
• Electrical work
• Mechanical servicing
• Rigging and plumbing
• Fiberglass and carpentry

Showers and other essential facilities are also provided for boaters to use during their stay at the marina.

Security

Security is a top priority at Snead Island Boat Works, ensuring that boat owners can have peace of mind when they store their vessels there. The marina uses four-foot ground anchors to securely fasten boats in dry storage, capable of withstanding hurricane-force winds. Additionally, the marina's staff is dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for all visitors and their boats.

Services Offered

Snead Island Boat Works is a well-established boatyard in Bradenton that provides top-notch services to cater to various boating needs. Their team of skilled professionals is committed to ensuring that your boat stays in pristine condition.

Maintenance and Repair

At Snead Island Boat Works, their comprehensive range of maintenance and repair offerings covers essential aspects such as:

• Bottom paint: Keep your boat's hull protected and ensure optimum performance with their high-quality paint services.
• Electrical: Expert technicians handle all electrical works, including wiring and system upgrades.
• Mechanical: Stay worry-free with their professionals maintaining and repairing your engines, propulsion systems, and more.
• Plumbing: Maintain your boat's plumbing systems with their expertise, including water pumps and sanitation systems.
• Rigging: Whether it's replacing wires or tuning your mast, their team will ensure your boat's rigging is in top shape.
• Carpentry: Skilled carpenters are available to provide custom woodwork and cabinetry for your vessel.

Haul-Out and Transport

Snead Island Boat Works also excels in offering efficient haul-out services. Their travel lift can accommodate a wide range of boat sizes, ensuring safe and secure transfers both in and out of the water. Furthermore, they have the necessary equipment and expertise to transport your boat to and from the boatyard, as needed. Their haul-out and transport services are designed to minimize any inconvenience while your boat undergoes maintenance or repairs.

Specialized Boat Works

At Snead Island Boat Works, they offer a wide range of specialized services for various types of boats, including yachts and fiberglass vessels. Their experienced team is confident in handling your boat's needs, ensuring the highest level of professionalism and care.

One of the primary services they provide is air conditioning (AC) installation and maintenance. As temperatures can soar while out on the water, maintaining a comfortable environment inside your yacht or vessel is essential. Their team is skilled in installing and servicing marine AC systems, keeping your boat cool and comfortable during hot summer days.

In addition to AC services, Snead Island Boat Works is proficient in handling fiberglass repairs and modifications. Fiberglass is a common material used in constructing boats, but it can be susceptible to damage from various sources like collisions, wear and tear, or environmental factors. Their team can assess and repair any issue related to fiberglass, ensuring your boat remains strong and watertight.

Lastly, they also specialize in yacht maintenance and repair. Yachts require special attention due to their size and complexity. The qualified technicians at Snead Island Boat Works have the experience and expertise to pinpoint and resolve any problems while maintaining a high level of quality. Their versatile skillset allows them to manage a variety of issues, from engine maintenance to electrical systems, ensuring your yacht's performance and longevity.

By entrusting Snead Island Boat Works with your boat or yacht, you can be confident that they will provide excellent, knowledgeable, and comprehensive services. With their clear and neutral tone, clients can feel comfortable knowing their vessels are in safe hands for repairs, maintenance, and modifications.

Nearby Maritime Businesses

Retail and Sales

Around Snead Island Boat Works in Bradenton, there are various retail and sales businesses catering to the marine industry. West Marine provides marine equipment, gear, and electronics for boating enthusiasts. For those looking to purchase a yacht, Marlow Marine Sales, Inc. offers a wide selection of luxury yachts and vessels to choose from. If you are interested in more fast-paced watercrafts, Action Kawasaki Yamaha Inc offers a range of personal watercrafts and boats for sale.

Other Services

In addition to retail and sales businesses, there are several other service providers near Snead Island Boat Works in Bradenton. Gulfcoast Marine Power specializes in marine engine repairs, ensuring your boat runs smoothly and efficiently. For boat owners in Palmetto, FL, Marsh Harbor Marina offers both wet and dry storage facilities, along with maintenance and repair services.

Palmetto Yachting is another nearby service provider, offering professional boat detailing and cleaning services, ensuring that your boat looks its best on the water. For yacht servicing and repairs, Jes Yacht Services provides a range of specialized services tailored to your yacht's unique needs.

Community Involvement

Snead Island Boat Works has been a part of the Bradenton community since 1935. This family-owned and operated boat yard has a long history of serving yachtsmen in the area and contributes to the local community in various ways.

One significant aspect of their community involvement is their dedication to preserving the marine environment. The company ensures that their operations are environmentally friendly and prioritize the responsible use of resources. Working closely with the local community, they promote good practices and contribute to the overall well-being of the marine ecosystem around the Florida coast.

Another important way Snead Island Boat Works engages with the community is by supporting local clubs and organizations. For instance, they work closely with the Snead Island Community Association and the Bradenton Yacht Club. These partnerships not only promote recreational boating activities but also enhance the sense of community among boat enthusiasts and residents. By providing essential services and supporting local organizations, Snead Island Boat Works contributes to making Snead Island a thriving part of the Bradenton area.

Furthermore, Snead Island Boat Works actively participates in local events and fundraisers. Through their presence and contributions, they help support various causes and initiatives in the community. By being a socially responsible business, they showcase their commitment to the people of Bradenton and the surrounding areas.

In summary, Snead Island Boat Works is deeply ingrained in the Bradenton community. Their commitment to environmental preservation, supporting local clubs and organizations, and participating in community events demonstrates their dedication to being a responsible business and an integral part of the local area.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Snead Island Boat Works, located in Palmetto, FL, has received a range of reviews from its customers. Many of these reviews praise the excellent work done by the staff and the quality contractors who provide boat services. One such review highlights that the staff's expertise is evident, but also mentions that this is not a DIY facility, as boat owners are not allowed to work on their boats in the work yard.

On Yelp, Snead Island Boat Works has a few reviews with customers sharing their experiences with the business. One customer expressed satisfaction with the fair prices and great service provided by the company.

In another review, a customer highly recommends Snead Island Boat Works, mentioning the professional team and particularly appreciating the service received from Sue and Bill. The competence of the technicians, especially Rich Greene, is also praised by this reviewer.

Across different platforms, it is clear that customers are impressed with the quality of work done by Snead Island Boat Works and the professionalism exhibited by its team. The company's commitment to delivering a great experience to its customers is shown through the reviews they've received.

Snead Island Boat Works Team

The Snead Island Boat Works Team comprises dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to provide top-notch services for their clients. As a full-service boatyard, Snead Island Boat Works Inc has been serving yachtsmen since 1935. With its rich history and extensive experience, the team at the boatyard is committed to quality and ensures your boat receives the best possible care.

One of the essential roles at Snead Island Boat Works is held by the Service Manager, Matt Mathews, who oversees the day-to-day operations and ensures optimal utilization of resources in the boatyard. Matt's expertise and keen eye for detail play a significant role in maintaining the high standards Snead Island Boat Works is known for.

The team of expert craftsmen at Snead Island Boat Works is equipped with the knowledge and skills to cater to a wide range of services. One such specialized service that the team excels at is chainplate replacement, an integral part of boat maintenance. The team's proficiency in handling chainplates ensures that your boat's rigging system remains secure and fully functional for smooth sailing.

Overall, the Snead Island Boat Works team takes pride in offering excellent customer service and maintaining a state-of-the-art facility. With their comprehensive and diverse knowledge of boat maintenance and repair, the team goes above and beyond to accommodate all your boating needs. So when you entrust your vessel to Snead Island Boat Works, rest assured that it is in the hands of skilled and dedicated professionals.

Conclusion

Snead Island Boat Works is a well-established and reputable boat storage and service facility located on Snead Island, west of Palmetto, Florida. The facility offers its customers safe and secure dry boat storage designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, ensuring that boats are well-protected during the storm season on the Florida Coast.

The Boat Works is an essential part of the island's history, with its origins dating back to the Pillsbury Boat Shop. As the demand for larger boats increased, the site expanded to accommodate their construction and servicing needs. Today, it continues to offer a range of valuable services to boat owners and enthusiasts in the area.

One of the key features making Snead Island Boat Works stand out is its proximity to the Bradenton Yacht Club, which boasts a 52-slip basin. Together, these facilities contribute to the thriving boating community on Snead Island and the surrounding area.

In summary, Snead Island Boat Works plays a vital role in the local maritime scene, providing reliable services and fostering a strong sense of community among boat owners. The Boat Works' historical roots and ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety, storage, and maintenance of boats make it a trusted and valued part of the Snead Island and Greater Bradenton area.

Footnotes

1. https://www.sneadislandboatworks.com/about.html ↩

2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida_Maritime_Museum ↩ ↩² ↩³

3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snead_Island ↩ ↩² ↩³

4. https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/2004/04/05/bat-fogarty-was-a-famous-boat-builder/28798212007/ ↩