On a hot day like yesterday, the kids like to trek to the Gulf of Mexico and rent a 110 hp Yamaha Waverunner VX110. For years, we have faithfully gone to a small thatched hut at the end of Blind Pass bridge in St. Petersburg to Frenchy’s.
Hailing from Lagny Sur Marne, in the shadow of Euro Disney, east of Paris, Cyrille Serour was into another kind of techno-thrill – auto racing. He was a mechanic and worked for French and Italian car companies and then had his own garage.
8 years ago he moved to Florida and has brought the thrill of speed on the water to countless. Not reckless speed – in fact, there is a long process each time of checking for id's and licenses (he also administers the marine operator test) and a talk where Frenchy or one of his staff go through all kinds of safety rules, while teenagers roll their eyes and bristle. And I usually have to add to the warnings because there is a $ 500 deposit associated with the rental.
What is impressive is how much technology he jams into that little hut. Several phones, GPS units (like the Garmin marine version GPSMAP 76C), fishing rods, radios, a min-fridge, a microwave, a copier, a shredder (yes, it is a relief to see the $ 500 deposit slip get shred after each successful return!) The way he stores his various kayaks, pontoon and other boats and the Waverunners (he also rents out a 4 person, 135 hp SUV1200) in to a compact docking area is equally impressive.
So, if you find yourself with a few hours in Tampa, head over to see Frenchy. The man is full of hands-on talk about application of technology on the water and on the road. Or don't talk to him at all - go enjoy our Gulf and skim by the gorgeous beaches we have to offer.
Comments