opportunity presented itself (on the docks of Hatteras Marlin Club) to merge with another sales company: Bluewater Yacht Sales of Virginia, Maryland and North Carolina, owned by industry veterans Chris Hall, Earle Hall and Jud Black. “Earle and I came up with that idea together because everywhere we went, we were together: tied up at same docks, same cookouts, same boat shows, all the same events,” recalls Randy. “So we decided to join forces. As Chris put it, ‘maybe one plus one will equal three.’” The merger greatly expanded the company’s territory, boat brands, service yards and partner networks—Bluewater was now the largest sales and service outfit along the midAtlantic and working with a host of elite boat brands, including Hatteras, Viking, Sabre and Princess Yachts, to name a few. GIVING BACK By many accounts, Randy has been gracious and eager to pay forward the many favors that he’s received in his lifetime. “I’ve tried to be an open book. I think that by continuing to help others, it makes our industry better, stronger and moving forward. The way I see it, however I can provide a courtesy to someone, it is nothing but a positive,” Randy explains. “That’s just the kind of guy he is. You reap what you sow,” Jud reiterates. “The best part of the merger was he and I became great lifetime friends. He has an awesome sense of humor… the ability to make other people laugh and enjoy each other’s company. In a serious business meeting, he can bring some muchneeded levity.” Throughout his journey in the marine industry, Randy has also been deeply engaged in many local charities and boards, not only in Carteret County but across North Carolina. For more than thirty years, he has been a board member and unwavering advocate for the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, to include manning the tournament radio and becoming a presenting sponsor via Jarrett Bay Boatworks. Randy’s charm and generosity is on full display each year to the international audiences tuning intoBig Rock Radio while he delivers the morning prayer and handles all the tournament traffic, often finding assistance for any boat in need with poise and immediacy. His philanthropic initiatives also include local projects on Harker’s Island, where he’s behind the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum, Ramsey Youth Center and Habitat for Humanity contributions. At NC State University, he has supported the establishment of an equestrian center, boosted athletics, and held numerous governance positions. Currently serving as the Chairman of the North Carolina University System’s Board of Governors, Randy is dedicated to enhancing higher education statewide. “I do believe if you’re lucky enough to receive gifts, it’s important to give back in a meaningful way. As a member of any community, it is incumbent on us to help others,” Randy says. In 2022, Safe Harbor Marinas acquired both Jarrett Bay Boatworks and Bluewater Yacht Sales, beginning a new chapter in Randy’s career, now holding the title of VP of Operations, but still overseeing the sales company. Why did he sell? “This was succession planning. Now the people that invested in the marine park, our employees, customers, will always have this company and the Safe Harbor network to fall back on.” Carrying out this transition now ensures that the contributions and legacies of the many individuals and team members he has encountered over the years, and helped build Jarrett Bay and Bluewater, will endure into perpetuity. Dylan Ray 26 BLUEWATER
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