About Us
Our Beginnings and History
Boat Brokers of Tennessee was founded by Dale Thomas, a long-time boating industry expert whose career began with the ownership and expansion of Laurel Marina & Yacht Club & Dealership. The marina, originally established in 1950, had been part of his family’s business and operated on the Tennessee Valley Authority system.

In 1976, Thomas purchased the marina from his uncle. Over the years, he transformed the operation from a small local dock into the largest marina in Northeast Tennessee. He introduced the area’s first covered boat slips in 1988, built the region’s first floating restaurant, added full-service amenities including bathhouses, pump-out facilities, and showers, and created a space where live music and weekend gatherings became a hallmark of the marina’s community appeal.
In 1994, Thomas founded the Laurel Marina Dealership, which was formally incorporated in 1995. Under his leadership, the dealership was recognized multiple times as one of the top boating businesses in North America, earning designation as a Boating Industry “Top 100 Dealer” from 2010 through 2015.
During this time, Thomas also took on leadership roles in the broader boating community. He helped pass the Mandatory Boater Education Act, became a certified Clean Marina operator through the Tennessee Valley Authority, and helped establish the Tennessee Marina Association. His long-standing commitment to boating safety, education, and clean water policies became a defining part of his business philosophy.
Our Core Values and Principles
Selectivity
We do not list every boat we are offered. Because our commission is based on a percentage of the sale, we are committed to selling only boats that meet quality and condition requirements. This benefits both the seller—who receives targeted exposure—and the buyer—who can trust in the boat’s value.
Certified Inspections
Every boat undergoes a professional mechanical inspection before being listed. From hull to engine, electrical systems to safety gear, all components are reviewed by certified technicians. This ensures transparency and helps buyers feel confident in their investment.
Test Drive Availability
When possible, we allow test drives. Since most of our boats are located in marinas, it is often possible for buyers to test the vessel in real-world conditions. This provides a better understanding of the boat’s performance than a showroom walk-through alone.
Slip Transfer Support
One of the key advantages of working with Boat Brokers of Tennessee is that many of our listed boats are already in slips. We regularly assist in coordinating slip rentals or transfers, reducing the pressure and time involved in relocating a newly purchased vessel.
The Founding of Boat Brokers of Tennessee
In 2016, after selling the dealership and marina operations, Thomas turned his attention to brokerage. Boat Brokers, LLC—operating as Boat Brokers of Tennessee—was established to provide a more flexible and customer-centered way of buying and selling boats.
The shift to brokerage allowed for a more selective and higher-quality sales process. Instead of maintaining a large inventory of dealer-owned boats, Boat Brokers of Tennessee represents individual sellers and works directly with buyers. This creates a model based on value, condition, and trust.
Because Boat Brokers of Tennessee operates on a commission-based structure—earning 15 percent of the boat’s final sale price—only boats that meet high standards are accepted. This selectivity ensures every boat listed is mechanically sound, presentable, and marketable.
Our Facility and Regional Reach
We serve boaters and sellers throughout an 80 to 100-mile radius of Bristol. This includes communities across Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina, and Eastern Kentucky.
What We Specialize In
Boat Brokers of Tennessee handles the sale of high-end pontoons, cruisers, houseboats, sport boats, and tow boats. Most of our listings are boats already in the water, docked in marinas. In many cases, the marina slips can be rented by the new owners, eliminating the hassle of finding a new docking location.

Every boat listed is inspected by a certified marine mechanic to verify operational condition and safety. Buyers are provided with detailed inspection summaries, and when boats are water-accessible, test drives are available by appointment.
Meet Dale Thomas
Dale Thomas has spent nearly five decades in the boating industry. From growing a single marina into a regional boating hub, to being honored as one of North America’s top dealership operators, to founding one of Tennessee’s most trusted boat brokerages, Thomas brings experience, integrity, and leadership to every aspect of the business.

His commitment to customer service, environmental stewardship, and boating safety continues to shape Boat Brokers of Tennessee today. Clients trust his deep understanding of boats, marinas, and the regional market.
Why Our History Matters to You
Boat Brokers of Tennessee was built on decades of proven leadership in boating. Our model is selective for a reason: it allows us to focus on quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction. Whether you are selling a high-end cruiser or looking to buy a clean, tested pontoon, our process is designed to serve you with honesty and professionalism.
Contact Us Today
Boat Brokers of Tennessee is located at 515 Melrose Street, Bristol, TN, serving a wide region across TN, VA, NC, and KY.
