Get to Know S3 Maritime: Full-Service Boat Care and a Hands-On Demo Boat for Upgrade Planning
In this episode of the Floatplan, Tim and Matt get together with Paul Zimmer and Kalin Tobin from S3 Maritime at Salmon Bay Marine Center in Seattle. The conversation begins with a discussion about who S3 is, what they do, and the range of services they provide — from refits and repairs to fabrication, electrical, and full-service boatyard work — before stepping aboard their extensively upgraded 2003 36’ Riviera Sportfish to see those capabilities in action.
Kalin and Paul walk us through the systems installed on S3’s demo vessel, including Garmin and Raymarine electronics, FLIR thermal imaging, Seakeeper Ride stabilization, Dockmate remote docking, and a fullVictron lithium power system. The result is a boat that feels dramatically more modern — without the cost of buying new.
This episode is a practical look at what today’s upgrades can actually do on the water. From digital switching and advanced navigation to stability and power management, the team explains how upgrades can be phased over time and tailored to real-world boating needs.
You’ll also see how S3 uses this demo boat to let owners test equipment before investing — whether that’s joystick-style docking, thermal cameras for night navigation, or upgrading electrical systems for extended cruising.
If you own an older boat, are considering upgrades, or want to understand what modern marine systems really offer, this episode provides a clear, real-world example of how a thoughtful refit can extend the life — and enjoyment — of a great boat.
S3 Maritime (www.s3maritime.com)
2360 W. Commodore Way, Suite 200
Seattle, WA 98199
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/s3maritime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s3maritime