History Channel boat expert drops anchor in Stuart

If you’re a fan of The History Channel’s hit show, Pawn Stars, you might recognize Bill Ybarzabal, owner of Stuart’s newest boat repair and restoration operation, A1A Marine Tech, Inc.

Ybarzabal’s 30-plus years of experience as a master marine mechanic earned him a role as the Las Vegas-based Pawn Stars’ boat expert. As the Nevada economy plummeted, along with the water level of the Lake Mead reservoir, Ybarzabal recognized opportunity and a more wholesome community in his home state of Florida. So he relocated his wife, three children, business and two staff members – who he affectionately refers to as his adopted sons – across the country and opened A1A Marine Tech, Inc.

In a deal brokered by Tom Hornaman of Florida Industrial Realty, Ybarzabal found a new location for his marine repair and restoration operation at the corner of Commerce Avenue at 3191 S.E. Waaler Street.

Ybarzabal and his staff specialize in the service, repair and restoration of all makes and models, inboard, outboard, sail drives, stern drives, jet drives, four-cycle, two-cycle, diesel, as well as custom paint, rigging and electronics.

An expert craftsman, Ybarzabal uses ultra modern construction techniques to build, restore and customize antique boats, bringing new life, improved performance and environmental enhancements to classic vessels.

“Building and repairing boats is my passion, it’s all I want to do,” said Ybarzabal. “I intend to provide local boaters with quality workmanship at an honest price.”

In addition to improving marine mechanics to meet and exceed today’s environmental standards, Ybarzabal will donate $2 from every sale to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

“I’m a big supporter of the FWC’s efforts to save the manatee,” Ybarzabal added. “I look forward to volunteering and supporting other local organizations that help preserve and protect our waterways, wetlands and the species that live there.”

About A1A Marine Tech, Inc.

“We fix anything that floats.” From bow to stern, prop to bottom, A1A Marine Tech, Inc. is a one-stop-shop for all your marine repair needs. A1A Marine Tech, Inc. guarantees all work and provides estimates free of charge. Pick up and delivery is available. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Call (772) 223-0334 or visit A1AMT.com for more information.