This month we talked to Tylor Hawley, General Manager of Boat Country, which has been an NMTA member for 79 years and exhibited at the Seattle Boat Show 58 times. Located in Everett, WA, it’s a family operated business with deep roots in the Pacific Northwest and is known for its commitment to serving local boaters through maintenance and repair services and new and used boat sales.
What would you like NMTA members to know about Boat Country?
Our NMTA membership spans four generations, starting with my great grandfather who owned Hawley’s Boats and Motors in Bellingham. Today, we remain a family-owned and operated business with a team of ten dedicated employees.
How did the company start?
My parents, Bob and Shannon Hawley, renamed the company to Boat Country when they bought out the Everett location from my grandfather in 1996. We are still located in the same spot alongside I-5 (wave as you drive by) and with easy access to the water for sea trials.
How has the company evolved over the years?
Boat Country began selling used boats at Dagmars Marina in Everett back in 1996. We have grown into one of the largest Honda Marine dealers in the Pacific Northwest and one of the world’s largest Stabicraft dealers, while also still maintaining one of the largest inventories of used boats in the region.
Any favorite Seattle Boat Show memories?
Some of my favorite childhood memories are of visiting my dad at the Seattle Boat Show with my brother and exploring the different booths. Now, as a father, I get to create similar memories with my daughter and son. I also appreciate reconnecting with so many people in the industry—it feels like a reunion every year.
How has the boating industry changed over the years?
It’s changed in too many ways to count. The biggest change in the last 10-15 years is technology. Boaters used to navigate with no GPS and now we have fully integrated technology systems floating on water. What remains the same is the joy and enthusiasm from our customers enjoying their boats. We are lucky to live in one of the most beautiful places to explore by boat.
Photo (Right): The Hawley family at the Seattle Boat Show, left to right: Bob, Tylor, Ray and Brooke Hawley
What do you most appreciate about working with NMTA?
The NMTA’s outreach programs have helped spread the word about the benefits of boating in the Pacific Northwest and created opportunities for more people to enjoy local waters through their advocacy work.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Our family is honored to have served the local community for the past four generations. We appreciate the relationships and memories we’ve built with our vendor partners and the customers who have chosen to partner with us over the years.
Boat Country: https://www.boatcountry.com
Congratulations to Boat Country for years of successful business. The NMTA is grateful for your continued support.