Celebrating Black History Month

Meet Stefanie Saleem

When speaking with the Founder of Black Girls Boat, it became clear that her passion for the water runs deep. "I came into boating because I really enjoy it," she shared. "I've boated all over the world—Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Spain, Italy—you name it. When I moved back to Tampa, I knew I wanted to buy a boat, but as a single woman, I wasn’t sure where to start. Joining Freedom Boat Club was my entryway into boating."

This journey sparked her desire to create Black Girls Boat, an initiative that connects Black women with resources to enter the boating world. "A lot of Black people, and Black women especially, don’t have exposure to boating or know where to start. With Black Girls Boat, we’re providing education, connecting people with programs like MarineMax’s Women on Water classes, and encouraging them to explore boating."

Her advocacy goes beyond education. It’s about addressing barriers to entry, such as swimming. "A lot of Black people can’t swim—that’s the truth," she said. "For the Love of Water Foundation provides free swimming lessons to break down that barrier. Swimming builds confidence and combined with wearing a life jacket, it makes being on the water safe and accessible." For information on this program, head to Black Girls Boat instagram page.

She also emphasized the benefits of boating, not just for fun but for mental well-being. "It’s healing. It’s relaxing. It’s great for your mental health and helps you connect with others. That’s why I’m so passionate about sharing it with the Black community."

For her, boating transcends race, but during Black History Month, it’s a powerful opportunity to inspire. "Boating is for everyone. It’s about mental health and relaxation. Being out on the water resets you—it’s energy for the soul."

Meet Ismail Dubose

Ismail Dubose, a talented and knowledgeable technician at MarineMax Clearwater, has been a part of the boating industry for nearly nine years. Starting as a boat detailer after moving to the area, he worked his way up to becoming a skilled technician, admired for his expertise with all types of boats. He finds the boating industry exciting and rewarding, as it allows him to meet people from diverse backgrounds. His favorite vessel is the Boston Whaler 270 Dauntless, praised for its versatile performance on any adventure.

When reflecting on Black History Month, Ismail emphasizes the need for ongoing discussion and education about Black history beyond just one month. "There is so much about Black history that is untold, unwritten, or even rewritten," he shares. He believes it’s essential to recognize not only the history of slavery but also the inventions and achievements of Black individuals throughout history and into the present.

Quoting philosopher George Santayana, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” Ismail stresses the importance of preserving and learning from history. Let’s not forget about it, erase it, or change it. Let’s talk about it and learn about it and from it," he says. His perspective underscores the significance of keeping history alive, not only as a remembrance but also as a guide for progress.

Meet Eddie Wright

Eddie Wright knows the Tampa Bay area waters inside and out! As the owner of a luxury real estate company and a passionate boater, he combines his expertise in waterfront properties with his love for being on the water. With 99% of the homes he sells featuring docks, Eddie often takes his Sea Ray Sundancer 350 out to show properties, making the experience even more special for buyers. His enthusiasm for boating, deep knowledge of the area, and commitment to helping new homeowners find their perfect waterfront retreat make him a standout figure in the Tampa Bay community.

Eddie’s love for boating didn’t start in childhood but grew over time. While serving in the military, he spent weekends renting boats, and upon retiring, he considered buying an RV—until he saw the beauty of Tampa Bay’s waters. Choosing a boat instead, Eddie turned to MarineMax, where he has had positive experiences across multiple departments, from service and parts to sales. He has also taken several MarineMax boating classes, emphasizing the importance of safety. His favorite local boating spots include Pine Key Tampa Bay (Beer Can Island), Egmont Key, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key, and St. Petersburg. For those looking to live on the water, he recommends top locations like Harbor Island, Davis Island, and Apollo Beach.

Reflecting on Black History Month, Eddie sees it as a time to honor the sacrifices of those who came before him. He acknowledges the barriers that once existed in spaces like marinas and yacht clubs and takes pride in being part of a generation that enjoys freedoms his ancestors only dreamed of. "Without a doubt, I know I'm the dream of so many of my ancestors, and I don’t take that lightly," he shares. Eddie plans to celebrate by attending local events in Downtown Tampa and Citrus Park, embracing the significance of the month while continuing to inspire others in the boating community.

In Conclusion

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who shared their personal stories and perspectives on Black History Month. Your insights and experiences enrich our community, and we are honored to be part of your journey on the water. As philosopher Hans-Georg Gadamer once said, “In truth, history does not belong to us but rather we to it.”

No matter who you are, where you come from, or what type of boat you own—or dream of owning—we are all United by Water®. MarineMax is proud to support and welcome boaters from all backgrounds, helping you navigate your boating journey and be part of our ever-growing family.

Did You Know? (Should we make this into an FAQ section?) 

19th Century Mariners

The ocean has long been a source of opportunity, providing not just a means of travel but also steady employment. In the 1800s, many Black Americans built successful careers in the maritime industry, working as fishermen, sailors, and crabbers. By the end of the 19th century, Black mariners had carved out thriving livelihoods, with some stepping into leadership roles and shaping the industry’s future.

The Underground Railroad

Waterways played a pivotal role in history, serving as escape routes during the Underground Railroad. Throughout the early to mid-1800s, secret routes and safe houses helped enslaved African Americans seek freedom. Some even found refuge aboard ships, either hidden below deck or disguised as crew members, using the maritime industry as a pathway to liberation.

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park Day

In 1945, a courageous stand for civil rights took place along the shores of Miami, Florida. Local Black residents staged a "wade-in" at Virginia Key Beach Park, a whites-only beach at the time, demanding equal access. Their efforts led to the establishment of Virginia Key Beach Park, the first beach designated for Black families in South Florida. Today, their legacy is honored every year on August 1.

Black Boaters and Talent to Celebrate

The love of the water takes many forms, and these inspiring individuals have made waves in their respective fields. From a professional female surfer training for the Olympics to a master captain known for his paint-and-sail excursions, and a rising YouTube fishing star, these extraordinary Black figures are shaping the future of boating. Learn more about their journeys in “8 Black Boaters to Follow in Honor of Black History Month.”