Bob's Discount Marine Supply — Local services in Port Orange

I have been either freshwater or saltwater boating and fishing for most of my life. Recently, about 3 years ago we moved to the water in the Port Orange area. We have been using Bob's, on recommendation from a friend, over that time. Unfortunately, that will stop today.

Less than 6 months ago, I purchased a Rule 1100 GPH bilge pump that was recommended by Bob's. After being properly installed, with 7.5 amp fuses on both the auto and switch power supplies, the pump has failed. I tested the pump on a clean 12V power supply, and while the pump will click, the motor never works. So I called Bob's to see about getting a replacement, since the pump has a 3-year warranty. Bob's told me that they do not honor the Rule warranty, and that despite the fact that they have a replacement in stock, I would have to send the pump back to Rule to get a replacement. That's at least a 2 week turnaround, without my primary bilge pump. That is 2 weeks, I cannot use my boat safely offshore.

In the past, the marine supply stores we have used would replace the defective item, and replace their stock with the warranty claim. That makes sense to me as a consumer, They sell the item, and even recommended it to me. They could get me back on the water the same day. It is that type of customer service that makes paying a premium to purchase through a LOCAL retailer all worth it. However, what Bob's told me today is that they are no better than buying through Amazon or any other online retailer. So why pay the premium to support a local business, if that local business is not going to support its loyal customer base? Well the answer for me is...

Wonderful people!! Very helpful, and willing to work with you on anything. We just wish that they would be open on the weekends again. Which was when my husband & I always visited. However, now I guess he's at the Deland location on the weekends, and here at the Port Orange location durring the week. Sadly, my husband really has no "safe" way to visit here durring the week. Not only because of his VERY busy work schedule, but because he drives a big Peterbilt truck. Needless to say, it will not fit in the parking lot, only along the street, which makes it VERY unsafe to park. He has managed to fit it in once or twice before, but its...

I have had some good experiences here. A number of years ago I had excellent service buying a new axle for my trailer. So that was one time. There have been a couple times that the owner acted smart with me. I am not a marine mechanic so I might not always know how to explain something - but I still want help. In the end though, he actually did help me and I got good information. I will give them 5 stars next time I f they can just elevate the...