News & Events

This past week’s customer appreciation event at Chateau on the Lake in Bolton Landing was a celebration of you, the Pilot Knob boating community. Giving back and showing appreciation is so important and we were delighted to spend quality time with our friends, colleagues, and customers in such a beautiful location.  

To everyone who joined us: thank you. Whether you arrived by boat or by car, with your kids or your neighbors, you reminded us exactly why we do what we do. We loved seeing so many familiar faces (and new ones), sharing stories, playing cornhole and frisbee, and just enjoying time together off the water.  

With a sweeping view of the Lake, live music by local favorite Tim Ortiz, and great company all around, it was everything we hoped it would be: relaxed, joyful, and filled with connection. 

To wrap up the day, owner John Donnelly (JD) shared a few heartfelt words: 

“I can’t thank everyone enough, from the bottom of my heart. One of the things you try to do when you start or take over a business is to make things better. Every day, we work to improve our customers’ experiences. I tell my staff: those are just buildings up there, inanimate objects. Without our customers, we have nothing.” 

It was a reminder that this marina isn’t just about boats. It’s about people. And we’re proud to have built something worth celebrating. 

A special thank you to Mary Clickner, our neighbor and friend, for baking her famous molasses cookies included in each gift bag (Fun fact: Mary’s family originally founded Pilot Knob Marina in 1922!) and thanks to Sasha Pardy, President and Co-Owner of Adirondack Winery for providing a selection of her locally hand-crafted and award-winning wine, two thoughtful touches from our local partners that made the day even more special. 

Mostly, thanks to you, our customers, without which none of this would be possible. For anyone who was unable to make it this time, we hope to see you at a future gathering. We’re planning more ways to connect and celebrate. 

Looking Ahead - What's next & what's new?

This season, we’re excited to welcome a brand-new Chaparral to market, the 2026 Chaparral SSX 8. Please check in with David at the Showroom and Retail Store to learn more. 

And before summer's over, consider leveraging Pilot Knob's Quick Launch Program to help you make the most of every last warm day on the water. With Quick Launch, you can  call ahead and have your boat ready and waiting for you when you want it.

If you have any questions, or just want to say hello, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here, we’re listening, and we’re always working to make your experience even better. 

Cheers from the Pilot Knob team! We’ll see you on the water.