Business Details
Expert Boat Repair and Marine Services in Tacoma
At Commencement Bay Marine Services, we have dedicated ourselves to delivering exceptional marine repair and maintenance solutions since our founding. With over 18 years of hands-on experience, our team of certified technicians specializes in inboard boat repair, engine maintenance, and comprehensive marine systems support. As an authorized Mercury and Volvo dealer, we combine factory-trained expertise with genuine parts to ensure optimal performance for every vessel. Our services span marine electrical systems, plumbing, computer diagnostics, and custom installations, tailored to both routine upkeep and complex repairs. We take pride in our ABYC-certified team, including our Lead Technician Jon, who holds the prestigious Master Marine Technician designation.Beyond technical excellence, we prioritize community impact by supporting youth marine programs through the Tacoma Youth Marine Center. Our location on the Foss Waterway provides convenient access for haul-outs, launches, and winter storage, accommodating vessels up to 40 feet. Whether you need emergency repairs, seasonal maintenance, or pre-purchase inspections, our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction remains unwavering. We maintain transparent communication throughout every project, ensuring clients understand all aspects of their vessel's care. This dedication to expertise, integrity, and community makes us the trusted choice for boaters in Tacoma and beyond.
Services
Marine Repair
Inboard Boat Repair
Engine Maintenance
Fuel Dock Services
Boatyard Services
Highlights and features
- We are an authorized Mercury and Volvo dealer with certified technicians
- Our team includes a Master Marine Technician certified by ABYC
- Supporting local youth programs through our services
- Offering comprehensive marine electrical, plumbing, and engine repair services
- Experienced in both diesel and gas engine maintenance and repairs
Associations and certifications
- American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC)
What people say
Runs GREAT
Fantastic repair knowledge
Expert boat repairs
Fair pricing
Friendly service
Services
Marine Repair
Our marine repair services cover complete engine diagnostics, mechanical surveys, and system overhauls for inboard vessels. Specializing in Mercury and Volvo engines, we handle electrical systems, plumbing, and computer diagnostics. With factory-trained technicians and ABYC-certified expertise, we ensure reliable performance for both recreational and commercial boats.
Fuel Dock Services
The Tacoma Fuel Dock provides premium marine fuel options including diesel and non-ethanol gasoline at competitive rates. Our facility includes pump-out services for vessels during fuel purchases. Strategically located on the Foss Waterway, we offer convenient access for boaters needing refueling and basic maintenance support.
Boatyard Services
Our boatyard accommodates vessels up to 40 feet with professional haul-out and launch assistance. We offer pressure washing, bottom painting, and winter storage from October to April. The facility includes specialized equipment for outdrive repairs and hull maintenance, ensuring comprehensive care for both seasonal and long-term storage needs.
Pre-Purchase Inspections
We conduct thorough mechanical evaluations for prospective boat buyers. Our inspections cover engine performance, electrical systems, and structural integrity to identify potential issues. This service helps prevent costly surprises by providing detailed assessments before purchase commitments, following industry best practices for marine asset verification.
Winterization Services
Our winterization process protects marine engines and systems during off-season storage. Services include fluid replacement, system flushing, and corrosion prevention treatments. We also perform spring commissioning to prepare vessels for operation. This seasonal maintenance extends equipment lifespan and ensures reliable performance when boating season resumes.
People
Tom
President/Founder
As founder of Commencement Bay Marine Services, Tom established the company's commitment to quality marine care while creating community partnerships that support youth maritime education through the Tacoma Youth Marine Center.
Jon Loftis
Lead Technician
Jon holds the prestigious Master Marine Technician certification from ABYC. With over 18 years of experience, he specializes in complex engine diagnostics and repairs for both diesel and gasoline-powered marine systems.
Sharon
Office Manager
Sharon oversees daily operations and client communications, ensuring seamless service coordination. Her team manages scheduling, estimates, and customer support to maintain efficient workflow and client satisfaction.
Dan
Business Manager
Dan handles financial operations and business development while maintaining partnerships that enhance service capabilities. He works closely with technicians to ensure transparent pricing and value-driven solutions for clients.
Leonard Velazquez
Yard Foreman
Leonard supervises boatyard operations including haul-outs, launches, and exterior maintenance. His team ensures safe vessel handling and proper storage procedures while coordinating specialized services like bottom painting and zinc replacement.
Questions
Do you offer boat maintenance for new owners?
Yes, we recommend scheduling a mechanical survey for new boat owners to ensure optimal performance and identify potential issues early.
Are repair estimates free?
We provide free 10-minute phone consultations and charge for detailed on-site estimates to cover technician time and assessment.
Why might repair time increase?
Additional issues sometimes emerge during repairs. We always contact clients before proceeding with any extra work to maintain transparency.
Do you work on outboard engines?
We offer basic outboard services and can refer you to qualified specialists for complex repairs outside our current capabilities.
Can I schedule winter maintenance?
Yes, winter is ideal for major repairs. We recommend scheduling early to ensure parts availability and timely completion before boating season.
Reviews (4)
T. I. M. Meldahl M.
Jun 22, 2021
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I take no pleasure in writing these comments, I feel that anyone planning to take their boat into Commencement Bay Marina, (CBM), might want seriously reconsider. Here's why:
1. My boat is a 2018 Monterey 295SY. I had it trailered to CBM after it sat for two months in Seattle at Rockingham Marina, where none of the work to promised was completed. I had to lobby Monterey Boats to allow me to take the boat to CBM, because Rockingham was their go-to marina for boat warranty work. I asked Monterey to allow me to take the boat to CBM because I trusted Jeff, CBM's chief mechanic, and had been
1. My boat is a 2018 Monterey 295SY. I had it trailered to CBM after it sat for two months in Seattle at Rockingham Marina, where none of the work to promised was completed. I had to lobby Monterey Boats to allow me to take the boat to CBM, because Rockingham was their go-to marina for boat warranty work. I asked Monterey to allow me to take the boat to CBM because I trusted Jeff, CBM's chief mechanic, and had been
Mike T.
Jan 27, 2021
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Not a place to take your boat. Lazy mechanic. Hold your boat and does not give updates or estimates. Quote one price on the phone, but charges more when paying.
Larry Stevenson
Jul 19, 2018
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Performance Marine fixed a botched Job by Performance Marine at Dagmar's. Shift Linkages were installed wrong, incorrect distributor would not work with my OMC Cobra. The folks at Commencements Bay Marine took me in after having it towed to them, they went to work and fixed my Boat so it runs GREAT. I recommend them, fare pricing and Fantastic repair knowledge and ability to fix another shops screw up.
Lynn N.
May 01, 2018
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Commencement Bay Marine is a company that cares about its customers, prides itself on quality work and stands behind the work they provide. They are a rare commodity in this day and age.
