Clarks Landing Customers Featured in Soundings: How the Costellos Found Their Dream Dayboat
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We’re proud to share that longtime boating enthusiasts—and Clarks Landing Yacht Sales customers—Paul and Sandra Costello are featured in the May issue of Soundings Magazine, highlighting how they found their ideal dayboat: the Solara S-310 CW.
Built by the makers of Cutwater, Solara Boats are a versatile brand designed for boaters who want it all—cruising, fishing, and watersports. Perfect for life at the Jersey Shore, the Solara S-310 CW delivers performance, comfort, and flexibility in one sleek package.
A Lifetime on the Water
With over 16 boats in their ownership history, Paul and Sandra Costello are no strangers to the boating lifestyle. From runabouts and PWCs to family cruisers and fishing-focused center consoles, every boat they’ve owned reflected a chapter in their lives on the water.
But as their lifestyle evolved, so did their wish list.
The Search for the Perfect Dayboat
Now in his early 60s, Paul knew exactly what they wanted next: a 30-foot range dayboat with an open bow, a cabin for shelter, and strong fishability. Twin outboards for easy maintenance and a comfortable head were must-haves—along with modern navigation features like twin Garmin screens and a windlass anchor system.
When they walked into the 2022 Atlantic City Boat Show, they weren’t familiar with Solara—an emerging brand from the makers of Ranger Tugs and Cutwater Boats. But right at the entrance, the Solara S-310 CW caught their eye.
They toured other options, including Pursuits and Chaparrals, but couldn’t stop thinking about the Solara. “It has a full windshield, which a lot of the other boats don’t have,” Paul told Soundings. “And the upper windows open—it’s a nice feature.”
Eventually, Sandra turned to Paul and said, “Let’s go look at our boat.”
Welcome Aboard Sunshine & Whiskey
In July 2023, the Costellos took delivery of their new Solara S-310 CW, affectionately named Sunshine & Whiskey. Outfitted with a Yamaha package featuring autopilot and pattern steering, the vessel has quickly become their go-to for cruising the New Jersey coast from Point Pleasant to Atlantic City.
“This boat checks all the boxes,” Paul said. “We use the autopilot a lot when we’re offshore—going from reef to reef, I just push a button and the boat takes me there.”
As one of the first Solara hulls delivered, Paul noted how easy the process was, thanks to the Clarks Landing team in Point Pleasant. From customizing battery placement to resolving a minor leak, our service team ensured everything was dialed in to the Costellos’ preferences.
“The dealership was great to deal with,” Paul shared. “They made sure everything was just how we wanted it.”
Looking Ahead
While the Costellos aren’t in the market for a new boat anytime soon, they’re enjoying every moment on the water with Sunshine & Whiskey. For them, the Solara S-310 CW perfectly fits this stage of their boating life—a day cruiser with comfort, performance, and flexibility.