Gonnason Boats: a gem in Downtown Kent since 1947

Just off Central Avenue in historic Downtown Kent, family-owned Gonnason Boats fills about a block. The simple building and expansive lot have been a fixture in the neighborhood for years.

Many in Kent will remember the founder of this third generation business, Jim Gonnason, who was known as a strong community booster. Possessing a mechanical inclination, he also had an entrepreneurial spirit, and founded both a gas station and a lawnmower retail and repair service. But it’s the boat business that stuck.

Under the direction of his son, Jeff Gonnason, the business grew to new levels, progressively bigger, and expanded beyond boats to include other power sport categories and related services. For example you can rent your U-haul right on site. Or maybe you need some repairs? No problem, they have you covered.

Today, the selection also includes not only boats, but a variety of power sport vehicles including dirt bikes, snowmobiles, quads and much more. Now in the hands of the next generation, the business is staffed by Tori Gonnason, brother Tyler Gonnason and Tori’s husband, Jerid Ronquillo. Some other employees are “like family’ having been on board for over 20 years.

Perhaps the most beloved staff are Tori and Tyler’s dogs, Russ and Stella, who serve as the friendliest of store greeters, ready to welcome you with a wagging tail and a happy sniff or two. Yes, it is a family place, ready to help you create your own family memories embracing the love of getting outdoors and having fun together.

“We want to be your one stop shop,“ Tori said. “We offer entry level boats, move up boats and have access to get you your dream boat.”

They offer a large variety of products including recognizable brands like Viaggio boats in a variety of designs to let the good times roll. The idea is to fit a large variety of budgets and lifestyles and they will evaluate your trade-in as well. They also have all the accessories you need to make your fun time both safe and convenient.

The heart of the business is certainly the boats for sale, both new and pre-owned, and they also offer repair or storage. Along with other power sport vehicles, they can buy or consign your equipment and save you the hassle of marketing and administering your transaction. Financing and extended warranties are other aspects that make this a full service shop.

Gonnason Boats has been in our community for 75 years, and they look forward to serving the community for 75 more. Tori and Jerid have recently welcomed a daughter who could be the next generation to meet, greet and serve the whole South King County area with expert advice and a host of services to help you make your best memories in the great outdoors. For now, you can rely on the this generation to help you discover what’s possible to fill your summer with fun.

You can check them out here:

https://gonnasonboats.com

And even follow Russ and Stella on Instagram for pix of the cutest Barketing Managers ever!