2012
Pride, Prejudice and the Turning Leaves
I just returned back to Muskoka from Euro-land and was happy to see a feast of fall colors still hanging on however it is an unfortunate marker that its time to pull the boats out. So I jetted across the lake today to a local marina that I have been doing business with for many years to take my two jetski’s out. I walked into the office to pay the fee, greeting the people with a frozen smile but I sensed something was wrong. I was promptly told by Mr. big attitude man, “you can’t remove your boats here, we don’t allow that anymore” Well I have been using this marina for 6 or 7 years, buying gas, using storage, launching boats – removing them, getting service, recommending them, etc. I pleaded my case which they couldn’t care less to hear so I left. I then instructed my friend waiting in the parking lot with the truck and trailer that we are out of luck.
What to do? I remembered seeing the old Wallace Marine had started up again when I visited Abbeys awesome bakery this summer. A quick call and I was greeted by a guy named Dave who remarked, “come on over“. Upon arrival the people were just fantastic and out of frustration I explained the story of what just happened. They acknowledged they have heard the story a few times before. I love it when people and companies understand that its all about the customer. When customers have bad experiences they usually tell on average about 10 people however for these guys I thought I would tell a few more. Thanks Pride Marine for turning me away and forcing me to discover the awesome Summer Water Sports who get it.
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, uncategorized
What a great photo. MA
Exactly the same scenario in the spring of 2012. I had been using that marina since the 60’s. Summer Water Sports it is.
It’s not so long ago that they changed ownership. Isn’t Pride a rather large business, with quite a few marinas? Have they outgrown the cottage casual mindset?
Such a shame.
Funny I went to the old Wallace Marina twice, and would never go back, horrible service
I had some difficulty with Pride Marine on two previous occasions. Once they overcharged me for storage and service of my boats and would not listen whatsoever. Luckily I found a quote which backed it up and they finally adjusted after great lengths of frustration and no apologies. Another time I purchased a used boat and brought it in to launch and they refused me because they noticed a competitors name on the truck that I purchased it from. They lost my business for good with their arrogance and protective ways.
Right on, Ed! I love it when you tell it like it is!
The Summer Watersports guys are the best!
How things change. I remember getting black ball candy and licorice there back in the 70’s, while Mike put gas in the boat…
I used to work for this company. Good move leaving! Miserable assholes, all of them.