Boater's World Bradenton

Reviews

Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.

  justin SHROCK
2 weeks ago
Was going to do a 5 star review but they do 1 star work. Started off with a bad employee that took my 15k and ran. Boaters world said they would make it right and they did "try" I'll give them that. I got my boat back in pieces which is fine but the paint is already cracked, the rub rail wasn't fixed which is what we agreed to and ill let the pictures speak for themselves. Go somewhere else, this place is a joke. They had their chance to make this right and they blew it.

  Kathleen AuClair
a month ago
If you are in the market for a new or new to you boat, then go see Kyle at Boater s World. He was very patient with us and took the time to answer all of our questions. If he didn t know the answer, he was quick to go get the answer. My work schedule is so very crazy and difficult to do anything during normal business hours, but Kyle was very accommodating and made it work. We are very appreciative of Kyle and love our new boat!!

  Keith Schutter
3 months ago
My wife, Suzy and I started working with Kyle Thompson in October 2023 with our Bennington tritoon, which had some ongoing issues. Not only speaking over the phone, but meeting us on site and showing us different boats, this young professional knew so much first hand information on the boats we were looking at that he was able to steer us into a boat that will meet our needs. He worked between us and Bennington for several weeks to iron out a deal. Kyle than took us on a sea trial that lasted nearly 90 minutes on the water...who does that! Kyle Thompson! We will definetly direct anyone we know who are looking for a boat to speak and meet with Kyle at Boater's World at Bradenton!Regards,Keith and Suzy Schutter

  Lisa Swetitsch
a month ago
I am not sure where to start to thank the entire staff at Boater's World! Tom & I felt like we went back in time with the outstanding customer service we received. From the initial contact Eugene's prompt responses, knowledge, honesty, and kindness was exemplary. The entire process was seamless from the moment we stepped into your Bradenton location, until the purchase of our new Cobalt -- a dream of Tom's for decades. Lance & Lars, took the time to ensure all the paperwork was properly maintained even with an outage! And then Garver, who just happened to come by and notice we needed a drop hitch for a more safer 2 hour ride home. You all made us feel like family & We cannot thank you all enough!

  Michael Glazener
11 months ago
I have had excellent experiences working with Richard Boore at Boaters World. He is very knowledgeable, honest, and makes you feel confident you're making the right choice for you. I would highly recommend working with him if you are in the market for a new boat!

  Stephanie Cintron
2 months ago
I love this place!! Recently changed my start craft for a pioneer after dealing with over 10 different boat dealership that weren't able to make it happened. The entire staff is super friendly specifically Kyle he answer all my questions and comun�cate through out the entire process. If you are planning to buy or change your boat this is the PLACE to go.

  M 88
2 months ago
My experience with Boaters World Marine Centers in Bradenton, Florida, has been nothing short of a nightmare, beginning with the purchase of a boat in 2023. The owner's son, who served as the salesperson, lacked essential knowledge, resulting in the sale of the wrong boat. Regrettably, the dealership, seemingly protecting the owner's son, refused to take responsibility and instead shifted blame to the manufacturer.What was intended as a thrilling family weekend toy turned into a prolonged ordeal, with the boat spending a staggering 8 months in the shop within the first 11 months of ownership. The frequent changes in management have created a chaotic environment, leaving employees uncertain on how to address issues.Particularly concerning is the behavior of Stewart Thompson, who holds the position of President but consistently hides in the background. This lack of accountability became evident when issues arose, and his team resorted to strong-arm tactics rather than addressing concerns professionally. It's disheartening that public disclosure was necessary to prompt any form of resolution.To compound matters, the dealership ran my credit report without authorization 11 months later, leading to significant consequences for my family. Despite my status as a business owner and active involvement in the city council and reputable boating community boards, seeking an apology and compensation for the 8 months without access to my boat was met with dismissal.Stewart Thompson's leadership, or lack thereof, sets the tone for an unreliable and untrustworthy team at Boaters World Marine Centers. The manipulation of reviews to highlight only positive experiences adds to the deception. I requested compensation and a public apology, hoping for a fair resolution without resorting to legal action. It's unfortunate that instead of acknowledging their errors, they seem intent on strong-arming me into silence.Furthermore, the appointed GM, Eric, has contributed to the continued lies and hurt caused by the dealership. It's disheartening to witness a manager consistently blame coworkers for issues rather than taking responsibility. If Boaters World Marine Centers aims to rebuild trust in sales, finding professional solutions and resolving matters should be a priority for Eric and the entire management team.Their executive director of operations, Pat, has attempted to intervene at the 11-month mark, trying to resolve the problems. However, it's too late. This dealership is not to be trusted. Pat knows what I have requested to make this right take the current boat with unknown issues back and give me what I had originally thought was purchased, or compensate my family for the damages of non-use of the past year, including the down payment. Along with this, a public apology that everyone can read and see will demonstrate to others that Boaters World Marine Centers wants to do the right thing in the community.Moreover, it is crucial that Stewart's son and other family members learn the products that Boaters World Marine Centers sells, ensuring that all employees, whether family or hired, are treated as equals. This treatment should extend to the resolution of customer issues, allowing hired employees to address problems without the threat of their jobs.

  Cory Crouch
4 months ago
Had an amazing experience with Boaters World. I was extremely skeptical of using their services. I am a Master Captain and have been managing large marinas for 7 years now. I am used to doing every aspect of boating, buying, selling. I eat sleep and live boating. I was very impressed with Miss Tammy Zuschlag. She was so laid back and great communication along with some compassion for a struggling customer. The transportation of the vessels was completed yesterday Alexander Slade. Heidi an amazing job. Rare to find staff of this caliber these days. Thank you guys!!

  Matt P
2 months ago
I consigned my boat at Boater s World Bradenton and received top notch service. My boat was sold quickly and the transaction was seamless. After Boater s world sold my boat I received my new Xpress skiff from them and I m nothing short of amazed with how this boat preforms. Also dealing with the service department has been easier than any other place I ve taken my boat and the work is incredible. Would highly recommend doing business with Boater s World!

  John Anthony's at jn and
3 months ago
Eugene Fornario sold me a used outboard. Working with him was a real easy experience. Communication was exceptional. If I was to be buying a boat I would look up Eugene because if he took that much care with such a small transaction I wouldn t expect anything less. Thanks again Eugene if you ever get up here to Canada to where I live look me up I ll take you for a rip on the boat

  Angie Salazar-Martinez
11 months ago
Kyle was an awesome salesperson from day 1. The process was quick and easy. Highly recommend him and the whole team.

  Jacqueline Prizer
a year ago
We had a great buying experience with Kyle at the Bradenton Boater s World facility. Kyle listened to our needs. He didn t pressure us into buying more than we intended. We are New to the Boating world and want to start out small & slow. Kyle is knowledgeable and helped get us exactly what we were looking for.Thank you so much Kyle! Great job!

  Katya Velikaya
3 months ago
Big shoutout to Kyle, my salesman he's the real deal! Super knowledgeable, answered all my questions, and hooked me up with the perfect boat. Friendly and approachable, he made the whole experience a pleasure. Highly recommend!

  Marc AuClair
3 months ago
We bought our boat from Kyle at Boater's World. He was very helpful and kept in good communications throughout the process. We love our boat and are extremely pleased.

  Tara St. Hilaire
3 months ago
Steer clear of this place. I would give zero stars if I could. Our boat was sabotaged after we pulled our boat listing from them when they wanted to force service on our boat which we declined. After getting the boat back and it not starting, we discovered the coil packs had been unplugged which don't unplug themselves. Luckily no major damage but we will never be returning to this shady place ever again. Hopefully other Boaters World stores do not treat customers this way.

  Kara Fratzke
2 months ago
Thank you for the most outstanding experience with purchasing my new boat. Kyle made this an excellent experience and was able to answer all questions I had and make this one of the easiest decisions I ve ever made! Thank you to everyone at Boater s World.

  Thomas Flagg
3 months ago
Just purchased a pair of Mercury's 200's outboards, to repower my 2004 Cape Horn 24 Offshore.The process, was super smooth, in ordering and getting the motors in Fast, way ahead of the time quoted.Pricing was Awesome!Kyle, was right on point, keeping me informed and following up immediately, when I had Questions.Kyle made this purchase, easy, from start to finish. Total Proffesional!Thank-youTom Flagg

  Stacey
11 months ago
Eugene ROCKED the house I mean the BOAT Hehehe. All kidding aside he was great! Super friendly, honest, funny & not a typical salesman where you know they are only after one thing! The next time we buy our motor yacht we will go back and find Eugene but this time we got a sweet pontoon! She rides like a Queen!Thank you Eugene!

  Herair K
3 weeks ago
Looked at a boat here last week. Very nice facility and exceptional friendly team! Baot wasn't right for us. But no push and sales guy totally made sure we didn't make the wrong choice. A++

  Greg Motto
10 months ago
Purchased key west 239 from Bradenton location. Eugene was of great assistance. I knew what I was looking for when I called. He provided additional photos before I traveled across state. When I arrived Eugene had everything ready for sea trial, all paperwork with finance, and had the boat detailed ready to go. Great experience and very helpful team.I also spoke with Cliff from Lake Placid store. He was also very helpful.GregOrmond Beach

  Nick Cooper
2 months ago
Recently brought my mercury 300 on my L&B to be serviced. To my surprise I was called by Wil 2 days later saying the boat was ready for pickup! Awesome turn around time and quality service. If you need service give Wil a call!

  c dixon
5 months ago
So honestly at first, my thoughts about boaters world was low from the first impressions, and then I meet kyle. Kyle customer service made a big change in me wanting to further business with them. Thank you for the extra miles you put in to make it go as well as it did.

  Jordan Braamse
11 months ago
Richard Boore is a 5 star guy! His knowledge and expertise were top notch. The professionalism he showed throughout the entire process made me feel very comfortable with this major decision. If you are in need of anything Boater's World, Rich is your guy!

  Mark Addis
6 months ago
This place earned by business by doing one thing - talking to me to understand my need. I own 3 Suzuki outboards and have yet to have a good service or parts experience in the area. Having visited 2 other dealers the same day, both just wanted to book me for service appointments - parts counters run by incompetent people who barely know what an outboard engine is. At Boater's World when the parts team didn't understand what I was asking, they went and got their service lead from the shop - within 5 minutes not only did he sell me the right parts he gave me great tips on how to change it out and his number to call if I ran into any issues. Spent $2k in parts and will gladly drive up there again from Venice just so I can deal with a real marine shop.

  PR Boat Tours
3 months ago
Nice selection of boats and affordable prices. Eugene was very responsive!

  Bobby Coco
5 days ago
Awesum boat dealership, plenty of inventory, knowledgeable staff, and we bought a beautiful new boat from BW, I would highly recommend

  Anthony & Brandy Davidson
6 months ago
To bad zero isn't an option. To start I bought a brand new godfrey sweetwater from this company only 11 months ago and to say the least they don't pride themselves on customer service called on several occasions and got a return call twice and took almost a week. They can't keep people and just know if you buy a new boat it will be worth 50 percent less when you leave the lot. I bought the boat for 48k brand new like I said 11 months ago and ots now worth 25k on a trade with only 30hrs. Supposedly according to them the market took a dive bull****.Check around before you buy from here.

  james vass
5 months ago
Wish there was a rating of zero stars....The sale went smoothly, i have no complaints in that department other than when the sale is completed your sales team is finished with you, they dont even want to talk to you again. My complaint is that i dropped off my boat 3 different times to have it ceramic coated inside and out which i paid extra for $6844 to be exact, oh and the trip is over 2 hours 1 way!!! The service was never done i picked up my boat the last time and said the hell with this place. Im currently looking for a dealership that takes pride in customer service that i can give my business too. DONT DEAL WITH THESE CROOKS THEY LIE AND DONT DELIVER!!!!

  Chris Parker
11 months ago
Rich helped me get into my first boat and I couldn t be happier. He was friendly ,knowledgeable, and worked tirelessly until he found what I was looking for. I will be using him again when it s time to upgrade.

  Brian Hogue
3 months ago
We purchased a used Sea Ray from Boater's World in Bradenton. Kyle was very helpful throughout the process from search to purchase to delivery.