• MRAA Certified Dealer Wins 2 Neptune Awards
MINNEAPOLIS (Feb. 24, 2026) — MRAA Certified Dealer Marine Connection is the inaugural recipient of the Dealership Experiential Marketing Award for its launch of Aiata Boats into the North American market at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The dealership also earned the 2026 Neptune Award for Best Website.
The awards were presented during the 2026 Neptune Awards, hosted by the Marine Marketers of America (MMA). The ceremony took place at the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings of marine marketing professionals.
The MRAA and MMA, in partnership, created the Dealership Experiential Marketing Award to recognize dealerships that deliver in‑person experiences engaging customers and deepening their connection to both the dealership and the boating lifestyle.
Marine Connection’s winning experiential submission focused on the introduction of Aiata Boats to the U.S. market at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Rather than approaching the show solely as a sales opportunity, the dealership centered the activation on helping customers experience the brand’s craftsmanship, design philosophy and positioning firsthand.
Elevating the Full Journey
“Winning the inaugural Dealership Experiential Neptune Award is an amazing honor, and we’re genuinely grateful. To us, it represents something bigger than recognition — it signals that our industry is elevating the full journey, where online and in-person experiences reinforce one another and feel seamless as one,” said Jani Gyllenberg, Innovation & Business Development Manager. “That’s what makes the Neptune Awards so special; it’s not just applause — it’s momentum. It’s proof our industry is evolving fast, and I’m excited for what’s ahead in 2026.”
By designing an intentional, customer‑centered brand experience, Marine Connection exemplified the intent of the new experiential category, demonstrating how event‑based strategies can deepen customer relationships, build confidence in emerging brands and support long‑term dealership success.
Industry Collaboration & Dealer Recogition
“Marine Connection’s approach highlighted how immersive experiences help customers not only understand a brand, but feel connected to it,” said Freya Olsen, MRAA Senior Director of Member Success and MMA Board Member. “We’re proud to collaborate with MMA on this new award category and to see dealerships raising the bar on experiential engagement.”
About Marine Connection
Marine Connection is a Florida marine powerhouse specializing in boat sales, service and repairs. The dealership owns nine locations including its corporate headquarters in West Palm Beach along with Aventura; Miami; Vero Beach; Stuart; Fort Lauderdale; Islamorada; and its two Boaters Exchange locations in Rockledge and New Smyrna Beach.
About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA)
The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas is the trusted catalyst for success in the marine retail industry. Dedicated to fueling dealer growth and strengthening the boating experience, MRAA delivers industry-leading insights, expert guidance and proven solutions that assist marine retailers in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. Through education, advocacy and innovative resources, MRAA empowers dealers to thrive, and help drive a stronger more sustainable marine industry. Learn more at MRAA.com.
