Call to Arms in Support of Our Local Chandleries

Mar 19, 2024

By Marc Robic mrobic@aol.com

Most of us have been daydreaming about the coming spring and the hopes for a great boating and sailing season. (guilty as charged…) Now it has arrived (almost) so, let’s also think about how we can play a role in supporting our local chandleries, who like many other retailers, do suffer from those who elect to shop online.

Of course, we all google and explore products online. I use online time to learn about what’s new and exciting in the boating world, from boat models to products to applications.

However, as my local chandlery will confirm, before I purchase anything online, I will call my chandlery to inquire if they have it or can get it for me. If they can, I will purchase it from them. Often, I also tell them the price I see online and they’ve gladly matched it or come pretty close. And I place my order with them.

As a benefit of this support, I have no hesitation in soliciting their technical knowledge and tap into their fast experience. From products to application knowledge, our local chandlery unselfishly provides and shares their knowledge. So it goes to reason, we should support them in return and they should be able to count us.

Local knowledge

Our local chandleries also have the most valuable knowledge of all: Local boating and water conditions experience. They know and understand the local boating conditions, hence can recommend products, and share information that are much more targeted to our needs. You cannot get that from online vendors, who often not even in your country and are simply product marketers.

Buying local also allows much easier returns and troubleshooting when required. It upsets me when I see customers go into a store to get help on how to use or install a product but have bought the product online.

Local chandleries can also recommend local boating service providers. That’s another great way to support your local boating community and the local people who are making their living in the boating world.

So, the next time you’re online, before clicking on the ‘buy now’ tab, take a few minutes and call your local chandlery!  And, thank-you for your support… Please pass it forward…

Marc Robic Marc Robic is a member of the Canadian Power & Sail Squadron. He and his wife sail their Catalina 270, Aquaholic 3, out of the Ile-Perrot Yacht Club in Montreal, where Marc spent 16 years as Harbour Master. They are regular Caribbean bareboat yacht charterers. With over 40 years experience, Marc is also an avid onboard do-it-yourselfer.