Martinique will be the first 123 person wine and cigar passenger vessel to obtain a liquor license as private company in Middle TN. Martinique will cruise the waterways 7 days a week in a full season earning profits~5 million dollars and net profit ~3 million. The vessel will feature cocktails, an extensive wine list, catered tapas menu, local brewery and a world-class cigar selection.
Management Team
Ramona DeSalvo - Legal counsel
Curtis Harrington - ATC (alcohol, tobacco, & cannabis) counsel
Herman Hick - Financial advisor
Daniel Avoures - Naval architect
Rodney Amos - Chief Chef
Tyra Donald - Concierge
Melinda Drennan - CPA
Ryan Haynes/Will DeNami - Lobbyist
Customer Problem
There is a need for a different type of experience for local and tourist besides downtown Nashville and restaurants. The problem customers have experienced is the lack of lake/river entertainment in the Middle Tennessee area. There are small charters called 6-packs (6 or less on a boat) on the lake where you the customer in most cases have to bring your own beverage and food for the charter for the time on the lake.
Products & Services
Martinique is a 18'Wx75'Lx22'H the first of its kind 123 person wine/cigar passenger vessel to obtain a liquor license as a private company a lifestyle experience that will cruise the waterways Monday-Sunday. With your paid admission you get a cocktail and tapas or cigar and tapas prepared by our local chief chef. Martinique welcomes memberships, special events, wedding, corporate events, pairing/tastings, private event, vessel rental and so much more.
Target Market
Young adults are consuming cigars more than cigarettes since 2009. The average woman (43%) spent between $101 and $500 per year on cigars. 24% of women spend between $501 and $1,000 on cigars per year. The Wine Bars industry is in the growth stage of its life cycle. The industry continues to outpace the broader Bars and Nightclubs industry due to changing consumer preferences and rising incomes in urban areas where wine bars are popular. Our target market is 25-65+ who are wanting something different from the downtown bars, pedal taverns, party buses, loud bands, and other things that makes Nashville the "IT" city. We're also targeting the local Nashville Metroplex of people who are looking to get on the waterways to have a cocktail or cigar and a tapas menu with a little live entertainment from time to time.
Business Model
Martinique will continue to evolve and listen to what our customers and members have to say in order to maintain the lifestyle environment they enjoy. Considering that Martinique will be the first, our model will be based on memberships, ticket sales, special events, wine/cigar tasting and pairings, corporate gatherings, vessel rentals, bridal parties, bachelor parties, weddings, political gatherings, industry events, and celebrations
Customer Segments
Connect with the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp., Area Chamber of Commerce, major hotels, Nashville and Hendersonville concierge services. Also connect with major corporations in the Middle Tennessee area. Along with the entertainment industry, music festivals, award shows, potential NFL/NHL drafts, marathons. Nashville attracted 14.5 million visitors in 2017. In 2019 had 16.2 million visitors and 7.5 billion in visitors spending.
Sales & Marketing Strategy
Through The Andrews Agency Martinique intends to maintain an extensive marketing campaign that will ensure maximum visibility for the business in its targeted market. Implement a local campaign with use of radio, local newspapers, online outlets, and word of mouth advertising. Develop an online presence by developing a website and placing Martinique with links to other business partnerships, and social media outlets.
Competitors
General Jackson- (strengths) 1500 capacity, 4 levels, close to downtown Nashville. (weaknesses) dated
Sunshine Yacht Cruises- (strengths) 5yr in business, 73' cruiser. (weaknesses) capacity 1-12, bring your own food and drinks, no smoking allowed.
Rivership Cruises- (strengths) 14yr in business, 73' cruiser, offer catering options. (weaknesses) capacity 1-20, dated vessel, no smoking, bring your own alcohol beverage.
Competitive Advantage
On June 17, 2020 SB2492/HB1930 Martinique (123 passenger vessel) became the first floating passenger vessel to obtain a liquor license on Middle Tennessee waterways by law. The law states that the vessel must be at least 18'W x 75'L x 22'H and carry no less that 60 people in order to obtain a liquor license.