Boaters who love to spend warmer days on Lake Lanier are not alone - boat sales and services appear to be on the uptick.
This comes despite the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We've actually been busier than in my lifetime," said Paul Stovall, sales manager for Gainesville Marina. "We've just been covered up, and I think it's because boating is thought of - and it is - a safe activity people can enjoy in these odd times."
"Business has been never better."
Stovall said they've seen plenty of demand for both sales and service.
"The worst thing we've had is just the wait times to get boats, we're low on inventory right now as a matter of fact," Stovall said. "But we're trying to fill those orders as fast as we can... hopefully that's going to be just temporary. We're still looking forward to a good season."
Stovall said they feel like the pandemic has helped them in the sales and service sectors because it is an outdoor activity that's pod-friendly. Stovall says that's helping in other sectors of their business as well.
"We're a full service marina. And that too, we're almost 100% full right now [for slips.] We do have a few openings here and there, but that plays right into the same thing."
Stovall's advice for boaters, new and old, is that time is of the essence this boating season.
"If you're looking for a boat, don't delay," he said. "If you find a boat you like, I'd jump on it because they are going fast right now."
Several other marinas and boating service companies contacted by AccessWDUN were unable to provide comment.
