The Port of Bremerton is recruiting local merchants to contribute to a “boater’s bag” for distribution to everyone who arrives in Port Orchard by water, with the purpose of letting visitors know what’s available.

“A lot of boaters dock in Port Orchard and don’t know what to do when they get here,” said Marina Operations Manager Brian Sauer. “With this bag they get a number of options. It gets them off of their boats and into the city, where they spend money.”

Sauer said that 2010 is the fourth year the port has done this promotion. It includes a synthetic bag, similar to the reusable shopping bags available at supermarkets, containing small gifts, coupons and special offers. For instance, the Puget Sound Wine Cellars includes a custom corkscrew, and several local restaurants include buy one, get one free offers.

The Port is selling advertising on the bag, which has one side each for Port Orchard and Bremerton. Including a giveaway in the bag is free, only requiring that it provide added value rather than advertising only.

Sauer said the port gives away about 3,000 bags per season. He is asking participants to supply 300 items at a time. The port will then notify the merchant when the supply needs replenishing.

“This is a good deal because it tells visitors what the town has to offer,” Sauer said.

For more information or to participate call Sauer at (360) 373-1035 or write brians@portofbremerton.org.

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