Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Marine Supplies & Services in San Diego
San Diego Marine Exchange has been a trusted name in marine supplies since 1950, offering comprehensive solutions for boat owners and sailors. Our three specialized stores provide an extensive inventory of engine parts, electrical products, rigging hardware, safety equipment, and cruising essentials. With decades of combined experience, our team of seasoned mariners delivers expert guidance and personalized service to meet both recreational and professional maritime needs.We pride ourselves on maintaining competitive pricing while ensuring quality and reliability across all products and services. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in our hands-on approach to problem-solving and our dedication to helping clients prepare for journeys ranging from local excursions to global voyages.
Services
Marine Supplies
Sailboat Rigging
Cruising Guides
Boat Parts
Safety Equipment
Details
- Year established: 1950
Highlights and features
- We have over 70 years of experience serving the maritime community.
- Our staff includes active sailors and certified rigging specialists.
- We offer a comprehensive inventory of marine hardware and safety equipment.
- Our competitive pricing ensures value without compromising quality.
- We provide personalized support for local, national, and international voyages.
Services
Sailboat Rigging
Custom rigging solutions for racing and cruising vessels, including standing/running rigging, furling systems, and lifelines. Our certified technicians provide precision installation and upgrades for optimal performance. Serving walk-in and phone customers with expert consultation and quality hardware.
Marine Supplies
Comprehensive inventory of engine parts, electrical components, plumbing fittings, and safety gear. Specializing in abrasives, cleaning products, and deck hardware for maintenance and repairs. Competitive pricing with global shipping options for all boating essentials.
Cruising Guides
Preparation resources for local and international voyages, including provisioning checklists and anchoring information. Curated links to maritime weather, radio nets, and marina directories. Designed to help plan safe and efficient cruising itineraries.
Boat Parts
Specialty engine components, replacement parts, and technical apparel for motor yachts and sailboats. Focused on durability and compatibility for long-term vessel maintenance. Inventory includes tools, fasteners, and ventilation materials for DIY and professional use.
Safety Equipment
Complete selection of life-saving gear, including life jackets, flares, and emergency beacons. Expert guidance on regulatory compliance and proper usage for coastal and offshore operations. Prioritizing reliability and accessibility for critical onboard safety needs.
People
Judith Gloria Donnelly
Founder
Judith Donnelly co-founded San Diego Marine Exchange in 1950, establishing it as a premier maritime resource. Her leadership shaped the company's commitment to quality and customer service. She mentored generations of staff and sailors until her passing in 2024.
Questions
What services does San Diego Marine Exchange offer?
We provide marine supplies, sailboat rigging, cruising guides, boat parts, and safety equipment. Our stores specialize in both recreational and professional maritime needs.
How long has the company been in business?
San Diego Marine Exchange has served boaters since 1950, with additional stores established in the 1970s.
Do you offer international shipping?
Yes, we provide global shipping for all products through our online store and phone orders.
Are rigging services available for custom projects?
Our rigging shop offers custom solutions for racing and cruising vessels, including specialized installations and upgrades.
What are your store hours?
Our Shelter Island location is open daily with holiday exceptions. See website for full schedule.
Reviews (7)
Dennis Boecker
Jan 31, 2022
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In terms of if you're actually looking for parts as opposed to apparel, this is your place! Fully train star with of years of experience To answer your question.
Sean O'Shea
Oct 25, 2021
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Very polite and courteous going help customer even had an odd products on hand I needed for an older model outboard
Dan Payne
Mar 21, 2021
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THE boat building and restoration supplier in So. Cal. It's where all the professionals and serious amateurs purchase chemicals, fasteners, electrical, deck fittings, interior fixtures, and on and on. Professional staff for straight advice. The real deal.
Thomas Ford
Dec 08, 2020
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Love the friendly staff here, they always make you feel like you're at home. They have a good selection of boating products on their shelves and usually have what I need.
Casey Day
Jul 31, 2020
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You gotta love these guys! I work as a yacht technician and find myself on parts runs here all the time. The staff is super helpful and personable. They know their stuff! Unlike some other marine parts stores that have "non boaters" as staff. Also for the size of the store, the selection is very impressive.
Mark Lasher
Jul 27, 2020
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The best place in Southern California for marine parts. Dan has all the knowledge and skills to help you fix/install anything. On multiple occasions, he has taken the time to make sure I have everything needed to complete the job. Saving me time and trips to get what I need. Thanks again!
Gary K.
Oct 25, 2019
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A landmark of the boating community in San Diego. Competent help available. A great selection of REAL boat parts here and at their sister sailboat store (Downwind Marine). I have done business with them for 30+ years and always a good experience.
