Meet Jim Nester - General Manager
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By PAMELA BARKER
Community Reporter/Social Media Editor North Palm Beach Life/[email protected] Walking along the sidewalk of North Palm Beach Marina the song, "Sail on Sailor," by the Beach Boys comes to mind. Saltwater and beautiful floating vessels are simply compelling. While jumping onboard one of these beauties would be, most-definitely, frowned upon, I continue to picture myself doing it. Thank goodness I have excellent self-control. Still, the allure of a marina, filled to capacity with boats in various sizes and shapes, is fascinating and romantic. Of course, through my flight-of-fancy, I completely realize managing a marina is also a business that must be run like a finely tuned Evinrude. Someone has to see that the Captains and Mates have fuel, provisions and local information. So, while boats of varying sizes fill the 107 slips, some of them with flags flapping in the breeze, some with people lounging in chairs, while others are being polished to a glimmering shine, Jim Nester, general manager, and his staff, are on hand to ensure that everything sails along without a hitch. A Fort Lauderdale native, and graduate of Florida Atlantic University, Jim is married and the father of two young children. Although his degree is in Business Management, he explained that he has been involved in boating virtually all his life, and a professional for the past 16 years. Through the years, he has handled a variety of boating duties in several countries, and has been everything from Mate to Captain. Living and working in Costa Rica for seven years, seeing whales up-close-and personal, are among his highlights, as well as going through the Panama Canal several times, then boating up the California coast. "This type work is challenging, but rewarding. The most challenging thing is dealing with differing personalities and keeping people happy." Apparently, Jim and/or his staff, who are available seven days a week to see to the needs of boaters, have figured out the secret to keeping people happy. They currently have a 5-Star rating on Active Captain. Presently 100 percent occupied, the Marina is open from 8:30-5:30 Monday-Friday, and from 7:30-5:30 on Saturday and Sunday. The one thing Jim wants known about the North Palm Beach Marina, which has been serving boaters for over 50 years? "We have a very professionally-run marina, with knowledgeable and friendly staff. So, come visit us anytime!" |
This type work is challenging but rewarding." 
Jim Nester (NPBL Photo)
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