Why We're Different

Our Core Principals

Transparent Pricing: We mitigate common industry concerns regarding unpredictable costs by providing fixed-price quotations for all vessel services, ensuring complete financial transparency for our clients.

Rigorous Quality Control: Unlike other regional facilities, all projects undergo a comprehensive multi-stage quality assurance process, utilizing detailed checklists to guarantee that every aspect of the agreed-upon work order is executed to the highest industry standards.

Assured Delivery: Upon work order confirmation, Svendsen’s Bay Marine provides firm start and delivery dates. This commitment is maintained provided the scope of work remains consistent, with clear communication regarding any revised timelines necessitated by client-requested additions.

Unparalleled Expertise: Our workforce comprises highly experienced and skilled tradespeople whose collective proficiency significantly surpasses that typically found within a single boatyard. This expertise consistently delivers exceptional results, fostering long-term client relationships.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Following a substantial modernization project completed in 2025, SBM now boasts cutting-edge facilities, including Northern California's largest Travelift, an exclusive indoor yacht paint booth delivering superior finishes, an expanded engine shop, new floating docks, a comprehensive ship store, and modern administrative offices, all designed to enhance service delivery for the maritime community.

Client Satisfaction: At Svendsen's Bay Marine, client satisfaction is our top priority. We are committed to delivering reliable, high-quality service tailored to each boat owner’s needs. Through clear communication, expert craftsmanship, and attention to detail, we ensure every project meets or exceeds expectations, fostering long-lasting relationships built on trust and professionalism.

Our History

A Legacy of Passion and Precision: In 1977, founder Bill Elliott launched Bay Maritime with a passion for wooden ships. He traveled the country with his crew, leaving their mark on legendary vessels like the Brig Niagara, USS Constitution, and C.A. Thayer. This journey eventually led them to the Historic Richmond Riviera, former site of the Kaiser Shipyards and the current home of Svendsen's Bay Marine.

Through our evolution, we have never lost sight of our core principles: a profound respect for the sea and the deep passion for quality that ocean travel requires. This same passion still anchors our mission today, whether we're serving recreational boaters, commercial fleets, or U.S. government vessels. It is this unwavering commitment to excellence that has earned us the trust of seasoned owners and established the Bay Maritime experience as the industry standard.