But Island Blue Marine, which is managed by Jesus Desebel, is now trying to attract even those who are not tourists.
Island Blue Marine offers various rides such as banana boat, monster, gyro, viper, sumo, wake slider, fly fish, turbo blast, parasailing, snorkeling tour, jetski, boat cruising, convertible and an island tour.
Desebel said they have to compete with several other companies even as tourist arrivals continue to decline.
“We have to find more ways and means to attract more customers,” he added.
“That’s why I always see to it that my customers enjoy our rides,” he said. “I have a lot of repeat customers because of my good service.”
Desebel, whose business is located on the beach near the Hyatt, said he offers CNMI residents discounts and a special price.
In 1982, he started working as a Pacific Development Inc. “beach boy” on Managaha.
He was the youngest beach boy and his primary task was to guide tourists in their snorkeling activities.
In 2008, Desebel established his own business.
“This is my humble way of contributing to the tourism industry of the CNMI,” he said.
He believes that the government should help recreational and leisure ride businesses.
He noted that some ride operators have lowered their prices, which affected small-time businesses like Island Blue Marine.
The association of ride operators tried to regulate the fees but failed, he added.
Desebel is hoping that the government will intervene so that small businesspersons like him can survive in this economy.
