2025 Docks Expo and Marina Conference Focuses on Designing for Tomorrow

Resiliency and designing for the future were topics of discussion at the 11th annual Docks Expo and Marina Conference. The conference, presented by Marina Dock Age, took place December 2 to 4 at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Marina owners and operators, manufacturers and industry experts gathered for three days of networking. Attendees had the opportunity to meet with 329 exhibitors, which was an increase of 10% over the 2024 conference. In addition to the expanded trade show floor, attendees were able to sit in on 17 education sessions focused on a variety of topics impacting the marina industry.

The 2025 Docks Expo and Marina Conference also hosted its first-ever pre-conference workshop and lunch, led by Robert Smith, safety consultant at Fisher Phillips LLP. Smith walked attendees through common citations issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and how marina owners and operators can create strong safety programs to protect their businesses.

Marinas from across the country, including Tennessee, Florida, Missouri, Georgia and Texas, attended the event. International representatives from Canada, Argentina, Mexico, Northern Mariana Islands and Panama were also in attendance.

Technology and marina infrastructure inspired many discussions at the conference. Attendees were able to meet with industry innovators and learn about the newest products and services on the market to help improve business.

Marina Dock Age also presented the awards for the 2025 Marina of the Year. To read about the impressive rebuild at Nine Marina in Eufaula, Oklahoma, the 2025 large Marina of the Year.

AWARDS

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Newport Harbor Association, Cleveland, Ohio, Customer Service award winner

YOUNG LEADERS

SHOW FLOOR

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From dock hardware and floats to kayak accessories and ladders, attendees were able to peruse the variety of products and services offered by Southeastern Dock Supply.

EDUCATION

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Representatives from several marina management software platforms spoke about how marinas can take advantage of technology to streamline business operations and improve customer service. Left to right: Jamaine Campbell, Elite Dynamics; Noah Elorfi, Sharper Marina Management; Jamie Gilman, DockMaster; Kenny Mass, Scribble Software; Brent Wierson, Storable Marine; Matt Fradette, Dockwa.