~ Velasquez: ‘We are still building’ ~
PHILIPSBURG–”I literally started on a strip of rocks. People thought I had gone mad,” said marine and tourism industry pioneer Robert “Bobby” Velasquez about the humble beginnings of Bobby’s Marina half a century ago.
The marina marked its 50th anniversary with a quiet celebration for management and staff on Thursday aboard the marina’s excursion vessel La Nina. A large celebration is planned for year-end.
At age 23 Velasquez started up what was a niche business catering to boats in need of repairs and supplying fuel. Another niche he filled was providing block ice for preserving food. “We had the first ice-making business here in Pointe Blanche,” he said. Boats and residents came to get ice.
The business expanded over the years and served as the catalyst for several of the long-time businesses now operating around Simpson Bay Lagoon. “Many of those businesses got their start here at the marina. When I started, there was nothing in the lagoon. … It was all pristine. The businesses came there way after.”
Bobby’s Marina continues to be an integral part of the cruise industry with the launch of St. Maarten Tender Services. “We built the cruise industry here. We made that happen. … We tendered all the cruise ships, the US air carriers … we did tendering around the clock.” This operation was carried out with some 17 water tenders.
Today, the marina is going strong half a century in. It weathered Hurricane Irma, but not unscathed. A number of boats were damaged. The marina piers stood strong. “We built hurricane strong,” said the marine and tourism industry pioneer.
Asked how long it had taken to build up the marina and its related businesses covering the marine and tourism industry, Velasquez said with his signature grin: “We are still building the business.”
The marina started with only Velasquez on staff. Now, the payroll has some 50 staff members, one for each year of the company’s existence. That number was much higher when the marina ran the water tender services.
Looking back to the beginning, Velasquez said, like the words of his favourite song by Frank Sinatra: “I can safely say I did it my way and have no regrets. My philosophy is ‘failure is not an option.’”
Success does not phase Velasquez. “I have never forgotten that alley I came up. … I love my people. Money or nothing will change me,” said Velasquez, who is affectionately called Bobby by islanders.
To the current generation of the island and those who think it is too tough to strive to build something of their own, Velasquez said, pointing to Great Bay beach from aboard La Nina: This is a li’l local boy born right there on the beach. … If I can do it we all can do it.”
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/79876-bobby-s-marina-sails-into-its-half-century
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