Steve Arnold

The deal puts New Hampshire-based Irwin Marine under the same ownership as Yarmouth Boat Yard, Moose Landing Marina, Freedom Boat Club of Maine, Sea Tow Portland/Midcoast, Portland Sea Taxi and Maine Boating Academy.

Founded in 1989, the Florida-based company today has hundreds of franchises. The Maine locations have steadily expanded along the coast.

Previously, the closest Sea Tow vessel was stationed in South Portland. The response time for boaters in Kennebunk waters will now be significantly faster.

A topping off ceremony is held at 201 Federal St., a boat club finds winter storage inland, an Old Port hotel is dedicated and an engineering firm will have a short move to its new space.