GOOSE ISLAND — A one-stop-shop for all things water opened its doors over the weekend, just in time for Chicago's boating season.
West Marine, the world's largest boating outfitter, opened its 20,000-square-foot flagship store at 1160 N. Halsted St.
The shop is packed with everything from top-of-the-line radar equipment to water skis.
There is also an engine repair center on site.
The shop is ideally located along the Chicago River and includes a freshly constructed river walk.
The new location is three times the size of West Marine's former shop and features twice the number of employees.
"The last couple of years [boating] has been really on the upswing," said Steve Kall, sales manager at the new store. " With the price of gas, people are going to really be out on their boats this summer."
For those of us without a boat, the retailer also caries a wide range of water toys such as kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.
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