From fanny packs and chunky sneakers to dad jeans and windbreakers, dozens of people dressed up for an ‘80s themed party to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Atlantic Boats Inc. on Saturday, Sept. 28. 

“Better Boating, Better Life” has been the business’ motto since 1989, the year in which John Cornish established Atlantic Boats on 2820 Cranberry Hwy near the intersection with Route 25 in East Wareham.

Back then, the business occupied a small, 1.2-acre facility. Initially, Cornish had no immediate plans to sell new boats but just to store and service boats. 

Over the next three decades, Cornish expanded to 6.5 acres, became a dealership, constructed new buildings, added services, hired more people, and bought Stone Bridge Marina in Onset. 

Today, Atlantic Boats sells used and new boats, offers boat storage and hauling, and provides an array of professional services, including waxing, winterization, and fuel recirculation. 

“I always say, if we can't do it better than the customers, we should not do it,” said Cornish.

Atlantic Boats has received more than 250 awards and has been in the Suzuki National Top Performing Club since 1992. But, despite a multitude of accolades, what Cornish says he cherishes most is seeing his long-time employees making strides in life: “getting married, buying homes, having children.”

“Some employees have been here from nearly the beginning,” he said. “I hired one of my employees in his twenties and now he has three kids, one of whom is in college.”

The guests wished the best for the Atlantic Boats’ birthday during the Saturday celebration.

“Happiness and success!” said Linda Vanwagenen, while John Cornish’s brother, Jaime Cornish, wished the business “profit.”

“I wish them 30 more years of success, and hopefully more,” said Sandy Montgomery. 

To learn more about Atlantic Boats, visit atlanticboats.net.