Roche Harbor yachters say “Thank You”…

America has been running on tips for a long time. In fact, most of my friends with summer jobs right now could tell you they make nearly as much money in tips as they do in their hourly wages. But why do we tip outside of restaurants? To thank people for the exceptional service they provide. That’s exactly what the party at Roche Harbor Marina represents for its summer dock workers.

A portion of the hardworking dock staff…

Ruth and Lee from the vessel “Salty’s Gambler” have been organizing the party for many years. Thanks for all the work you do!

Every year for the past 10 years, Roche Harbor has thrown a Dock Party for all its employees who help tie up boats, communicate to incoming vessels by radio, and assist visiting boaters in any way they can.

But what is interesting about that in particular? The fact that Roche Harbor isn’t footing the bill themselves. All the money for food and party organization is contributed by vessel owners docked in the marina. What isn’t used up in the execution of a great party is split as a bonus for each dock worker. It’s a great way for the boat owners to say thank you to the workers and enjoy an evening of delicious food (seriously, the ribs from Hailey’s were pretty fantastic) with great company.

Harbormaster Kevin Carleton told me that of the 40 dock workers they have on staff this summer, 22 are locals. It’s a full time job in the sunshine (I would argue the biggest downside is the prominent end-of-summer shorts tan line) that employs high school upperclassmen and older. Although there is quite a bit of turnover amongst the out-of-towners, many of the locals you see on the docks have been part of the summer crew for many years.

Thank you to all the boaters who pitched in for the Dock Party; it’s always nice to tell people you appreciate them.

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