Boats have always had the power to inspire people. They have been the impetus behind countless songs, paintings, works of literature and early retirements.
What has become the world's largest boating supply retailer started modestly enough in a garage in Sunnyvale.
Today, West Marine has more than 400 West Marine stores and BoatU.S. Marine Centers in 38 states, Puerto Rico and Canada. The company now carries more than 100,000 products, ranging from the rope that started it all, to the latest in marine electronics. In addition to its retail stores and Port Supply wholesale divisions, the company serves boaters in more than 150 countries worldwide through its mail order and Internet divisions.