I couldn't be more pleased with Helmut's Volvo Penta Marine service! I purchased a used 2001Four Winns H200 with the 5.0 Gi / Volvo Penta SX out-drive. It was going to be my "project boat" for the summer. It turned out to be a much bigger project that I first thought but Helmut's service manager, Giancarlo Schiano and his colleague Eddie were fantastic! They made me feel like my little boat was the most important project in the yard! Communication was excellent. Text messages, email and phone calls kept me informed all along the way. The best part, Giancarlo assigned one Technician to lead the engine/outdrive work so he always had the big picture. This is a big deal. The quality of the workmanship was great! They had all the parts in stock, no delays! For the professional engineering quality, fantastic warranty and super customer service, this is where you want your boat serviced!! read more

I have over 20 years experience on boat and maintenance. I brought my boat for repair due to engine will not start. After 2.5 hours and $487.50. When I went to pickup the boat they said that a outdrive dipstick was over torqued damaging the threads. One I would never over tighten a dipstick screw! The boat is stored in my garage with the outdrive in the up position, so you can't get to the screw without lowering the drive unit. The cost for the Bearing cover was $534.00 ( found it cheaper from another Volvo Penta Dealer under $125,00 cheaper) Wow! They replace a wire and said it was fixed. On the work order, they didn't mention what type of wire or where is was replaced. Just replaced wire. That it. Very vague.They recommend a shift cable be replaced. I approved it.. They replaced two cables instead of one which I did not approve the second cable. Julian is the service advisor just replaced it since it was the same location. No communication at all. Upon returning home, I went to lower the drive unit to replace the bearing cover. The boat didn't start. I called immediately [next day] and spoke with service mgr. Jon-Calos he said to bring it back in. I explained that the alternator had some corrosion and that I would replace it, so I order it for the other dealer for $300,00 plus free shipping. Helmut's was much more expensive. You would of think their mechanic would of notice the corrosion on the alternator since it part of the diagnosis for a non starting engine. By the way, I installed the alternator myself without stripping a single screw. Also mention that I will have construction scaffold in front of my house for a month and can not bring my boat in until Nov.20 when I return from vacation also. After spending over $2,000.00 in repairs and another $325.00 in maintenance parts [impeller kit, lower gear oil for changing oil in lower unit 75-90w, lower & upper O rings, grease and corrosion shield. Still not starting. Also the parts removed to get to the shifter cable were not put back in place. [cover left open & missing screws, and loose to move around to that could cause other damage while on the water, and oil reservoir for trim not attached at all.] So, double check their work. It's very unsatisfactory and unprofessional. Going across the Golden Gate Bridge is also not cheap. I really though I found a great boat repair facility I could count on with all those fantastic reviews. I guess I will have to take it to my trusted boat dealer 100 miles away, but worth it for peace of mind and not feeling of getting ripped off. Dennis San Francisco read more

Parking is difficult and it is a rough neighborhood. The missing letter from the sign on the wall and the customer-bashing spilling over from the other room were a little off-putting. Expect to pay more than you will anywhere else. Plus side=lots of parts. read more

both 2024 and this summer 2025...timing belt and then regular annual service...both techs were knowledgeable and communicated well...service was excellent...got to get in their cue or it can be a tad long wait...they must be good...we'll be back next year for certain...Don Aspen 32 power cat Volvo D3... read more

This is my re-post from my closed account: I was pleasantly surprised to discover how close Helmut's Marine is to me. I emailed them to inquire about some needed parts, and they promptly confirmed they had everything in stock. When I arrived, I could purchase all the parts I needed, and they also gave me helpful advice on a few more items I'll need in the future. Great service and knowledgeable staff! read more

My boat engine suddenly died. Hemut's pushed the manufacturer hard to replace my engine under warranty twice to make sure that I had a good engine at the end. The first replacement had multiple problems. They also replaced the transmission since they thought it got damaged when the original engine died. For me, they really put the customer first. They went out of their way to serve me. read more

If you need Volvo parts for your boat engine Hemuts is where start. All of the other shops who need Volvo parts go through Helmuts to get thier parts. Get your engine in thier system. It will make engine maintenance allot easier. read more

I worked with the Service Manager of Helmut's Marine, Giancarlo Schiano, in evaluating and fixing several Volvo Penta engine issues. He promptly scheduled a service technician, followed up with me, and had all my issues resolved. I'm very impressed with the professionalism and customer car exhibited. They work efficiently, are totally organized, and the billing is completely transparent and fair. Scott H. read more

Very knowledgeable team! David was soooo helpful and gave me the information I could not find anywhere else! I was stuck trying to figure out an older Volvo Penta lower unit issue and he showed me the way. Could not recommend them more. read more

good place no issues up to this point they answer the phone quickly and try their very best to please read more

Just picked up my 2013 Chris Craft Launch with a Volvo Penta drive system that was in for a code error that another boat repair shop couldn't fix. Amanda and Giancarlo walked me through the process and kept me informed through out the process via telephone calls and emails. The code error was repaired and when I went to pick up my boat I found it sparkling clean. Although I live in the East Bay Helmut's will be my go to repair shop moving forward for repairs as well as maintenance. I will be happy to refer them to anyone needing Volvo Penta repairs and or service. Thanks Guys!! Charlie read more

I send him a text them what I was looking for? They answer me right away. David mace and Marco they are very helpful.They tried to find the part for you even they did not have it in stock and was obsolete by manufacture. They tried to locate it from different places and they even give you the phone numbers for places they have it. For sure I will do business with them again. read more

I was not able to locate a tool and Marco researched it, found it and called me back! Good Job Marco! I would definitely recommend Helmut's and they will be my first call next time. read more

I called Eddie 3 times and he was such a great help!! I woukd definitely recommend this company for anyone looking to buy. Thanks again Eddie Mick read more

I had to source some Volvo Penta engine parts for a sailing friend in Fiji. I emailed them on a Saturday, they were closed but Dan was still working, he sourced the parts and by Monday morning they were ordered and on their way to me as an overnight delivery. Incredible service, very nice and helpful. Totally will refer them to other boaters. Sadly, my sailboat engine is a Yanmar- so I can't give them any business. read more

I've owned several boats and have decades of experience in seawater and lake boating. I've worked with boating businesses from coast-to-coast. I've used mechanics and I've done my own work on every system on a boat. In my profile, I wrote (and follow) a strict code concerning how I post on Yelp. I write reviews that I wish I had read before I approach a business - to avoid bad experiences, and to find the businesses that are excellent. Helmut's Marine Service is excellent, and this review is a pleasure to write. I especially thank Dan and Helmut himself for their professionalism. CUSTOMER SERVICE In my conversations with Dan (Marine Parts) he said something several times. I'll quote Dan: "We're here to take care of customers." Dan walked the talk. At every juncture his interest in getting my situation squared away was evident in his helpfulness and even his tone of voice. He took the time to discuss issues (see below), and when he said he would do something he gave a timeframe for doing it -- and he met it every time. I got that same treatment from Dave and everyone else at Helmut's. This is a high-toned, professional business. COMMUNICATION Phones were answered. Quotes and documents were e-mailed quickly. Explanations were clear. KNOWLEDGEABILITY First class. I worked with Dan to get me supplied to do an extensive maintenance operation on a Volvo outdrive. He was flawless in his work-up of parts needed and he had insight about the procedures and normal range of conditions that parts experience in operation that guided me in kitting-up for the job. There's a big difference between a professional who can navigate schematics and suggest a part number and a person like Dan. Dan speaks fluent Volvo. That made for an efficient interaction and it inspired confidence in my approaching the job. I should also mention Helmut. He consulted with me about what was an apparent cone clutch issue. I trusted Helmut's advice, and he was spot on. A brand new propeller, not the cone clutch, was the problem. OTHER Helmut's Marine Service is an authorized Volvo dealer. I needed to check the alignment of my engine and, unbelievably, they may lend me the tool to do that job. Parts were shipped promptly, packaged well, and without issue. Before I engaged with Helmut's I used online sources of parts, most of which are on the East Coast. That was an error. Helmut's is price-competitive, and they consult (and know what they're talking about), and my parts are local. If there is any area for improvement, it is that they have not opened a facility in San Jose. Here in the South Bay, the boating business sector has been decimated, in part because some of them were poorly run. A Helmut's Marine Service facility in Morgan Hill or San Jose would be excellent. read more

Helmut's Marine Service - Boating Near Me - San Rafael, California

I have received excellent service and advice over a period of 6 months as I had the challenge of having to remotely maintain my late brother's boat in Alameda. I was guided professionally by Giancarlo who runs the service dept. The repairs, advice and support I received was much appreciated and the boat is finally running perfectly after two years of incorrect repairs by outside mechanics. Giancarlo was incredible as he kept me in the loop of all repairs needed and always was professional and knowledgeable every step of the way! read more

They went above and beyond to get us what we needed. Appreciate the great service.

I have been purchasing parts from Helmut's for several years now. I've always received excellent service. I let them know what I need in advance, and everything ready to go when I get there saving time. On my most recent visit, Daniel helped me and was extremely pleasant and helpful. There are ocloser dealers in the Bay Area where I can purchase parts, oil, filters, etc... for my Volvo engines but make the drive from the east bay over to San Rafael as I've always had great experiences. Highly recommend them! read more

Once again I continue to be impressed by the customer care, knowledge and professionalism of the Helmut's Marine staff. I have recently been into the parts counter for a series of repairs I'm personally addressing on my boat. The team has not only provided me with the parts needed, but also critical advice to ensure that my work is successfully completed. Given that I'm working on my starboard engine's fuel system that extra mile of support is greatly appreciated! If you run Volvo Penta engines, look no further. They installed my outdrives a few years back and did a top notch job. They remember and care about their customers and they've shown their continued dedication to me by supporting my owner executed repairs. Thanks for the assist! read more

We have found some excellent Volvo Penta mechanics in SanFrancisco Bay recently on our way through for repairs. They went out of their way to get us fixed at the dock where we were moored, fast tracked our repairs to keep us on track for our weather-window departure, did the repairs under warranty, got us registered with Volvo Penta warranty system, and has offered to be our Volvo Penta service facility for life! They have partnered service centers in over 130 countries. These folks were soooo responsive, called and coordinated everything flawlessly. The mechanic, Cayland, we had working for us was very informative and genuinely concerned with the success of our engines and the safety of our boat and crew. He gave volumes of good engine advice and gave me personal "how too" demonstrations as he worked. I give them an A+++! read more

Jake in parts knew exactly what I needed and had everything shipped to me directly from Volvo Penta in 2 days! Great service and friendly staff. read more

Helmut's and Jake in parts were fantastic. Jake helped me get all the parts I needed and was extremely helpful and quick to respond. Would give 10 stars if I could. Best service around read more

These guys were too scared to put a disassembled volvo outdrive back together!! I guess they don't like money and gaining a loyal customer! So much for being "Authorized Volvo Penta" mechanics-scared of a tiny outdrive!!! read more

Working with these folks was 100% positive. Super responsive, did what they said the could/would do, friendly, gave more than we asked for, all really helpful. Highly recommended! read more

Fantastic service experience with Helmut's on our 2017 Galeon 445 HTS. Cayland, specifically, went above and beyond as our service technician. The engine room on our boat is cramped and difficult to work in, and Cayland did it with a smile on his face. His professionalism and commitment to getting the job done right makes it easy for us to be repeat customers. read more

They really helped me restore my boat to its original glory with a new outdrive and exhaust manifolds. Giancarlo and Amanda were wonderful to work with. Boat turned out really nice! Thanks again guys! read more

I've been happy with Helmut's Marine Service. I've mainly purchased parts for my Volvo Penta D1-30. They usually have parts in-store; they're prompt to respond and friendly to work with. Recommended! read more

Great service great prices and support. Dan is the man. Very helpful and very thirough

Having recently switched from years of sailing to power (a Ranger tug powered by a Volvo D-300 diesel) , this was my first experience dealing with Helmut's Marine Services and the single best example of proper marine service experienced in over 50 years of boating. Their professionalism is evident the minute you walk through the door, further evidenced by their attention to cleanliness and organization. Every staff member I met, from the front office staff to the professionally trained techs/mechanics, all were customer focused, knowledgeable and beyond helpful. Based on this experience, they've gained a long term customer. J. Cole San Rafael CA read more

I've needed numerous odd parts for an older (30+ years) boat from time to time and the guys in the Parts Department at Helmut's have gone the extra mile for me each time. Some of the parts I though I could pick up at a auto parts store. Items like a distributor, a neutral switch, fuel pressure sensors, it didn't seem to matter. I'd do my search and come up with something close but not precise. I tried the "close enough" twice. Never again. I call Helmuts and they get me the right part, right away. It hasn't failed me yet. Customer Service in this day and age is non existent. Not with the part guys at Helmut's. You think I'm bsing, try it and you'll see what I'm talking about. read more

Helmuts Marine saved my summer plans! - in this post COVID world, parts are hard to come by. I found Helmuts and will never look anywhere else! - not only did they stock the part that Volvo had back ordered for weeks, they were able to quickly turn around my order and expedite my shipment so the vacation was saved! Could not be more pleased. read more

Helmut's is hands down the best repair shop to use if you have a Volvo penta powered boat. Brought them a boat with an older Volvo penta drive that had been worked on by several mechanics prior and the team at Helmut's was able to correct other's work and knew exactly what they were doing with no uncertainty. Nadine was extremely helpful and polite through the whole process! Dan in parts has also helped me order maintenance items and their inventory is extensive with quick shipping! Highly recommend them for all your Volvo penta needs! read more

I contacted the service department today for a shift new cable. After chatting through the problem I was having with my setup, the folks at helmuts recommended replacing an additional component. Boat repairs can be stressful, but helmuts makes the experience enjoyable with their excellence customer service and friendly nature. read more

You know the feeling you get when you find a place that has top experts who love what they do - and are nice people too? That place is Helmut's Marine. My sail drive had sea water mixed with the oil and the boat was hauled so the unit could be removed. Helmut's picked it up, identified the problem, and made expert repairs. Since the boat was hauled I requested an engine inspection and service and I am glad I did! Turns out I had a leaking sea water pump and a clogged riser which most certainly would have led to overheating. The technicians who worked on my engine and sail drive, Larry and Cayland, are master mechanics. They are at the top of their game and are two of the most genuine and down to earth people you could meet. Both were patient answering my questions and generous in sharing their knowledge. I learned a ton, the most significant being to only let people who are experts at what they do touch your boat! Because of Helmut's team, especially Larry and Cayland's capability and attention to detail, I have the confidence to take my vessel across the Pacific Ocean this summer - worry free! Thanks Helmut, Larry, Cayland, Sara, and Nadine for an exceptional customer experience. read more

The entire team at Helmut's marine is fantastic. As a boat dealer and broker, I have referred their services to dozens of my clients with Volvo gas and diesel engines. Every client has been so happy to have worked with them. They are by FAR the most knowledgable Volvo experts in California, and it's not just their job, it's their life. The definition of a family business, they take every client's needs personally. Jumping to prioritize urgent jobs while keeping a punctual and communicative schedule is so important in a service team. While I haven't bought an engine from them or done a re-power, I am confident they provide the best value out there. Volvo makes a great product, and the team at Helmut's Marine are the best to take care of your Volvo! Keep up the great work! read more

Dan in parts went above and beyond to help me with my Volvo Diesel in parts and getting me all the info I needed for my project!! Highly recommended read more

Dan in Parts was very helpful with an odd question about an outdrive support for an older 290 Duo Prop, and he sent me a photo of the part they use and even found a less expensive one that one I had mentioned. This is part of the excellent service I always receive when at Helmut's, including The Boss. Thanks Dan! read more

I have two Volvo V-6 engines in one boat and a Volvo 290-A in my other boat. I rely on Helmut's Marine for service and parts. I have been a customer over 20 years and the business just improves and improves as far as polite, knowledgeable staff and an extensive inventory of parts. Helmut the owner has a vast technical knowledge. Helmut is very accessible and willing to help through any boating problem. He and his service technicians are simply the best. I feel safe boating with the service and repairs I have received at Helmut's Marine. read more

After being ripped off by Mineko Marine, having paid for repair work which was never done by them, my husband took our boat in to Helmut's Marine Service. WHAT A DIFFERENCE!! Helmut's is a busy shop, because they are good.... no, wait.... make that EXCELLENT. They have consistently demonstrated expertise and really know what they are doing, they communicate well with the customer and keep you informed (don't you hate it when you have to keep calling a place to find out the status of the work they're doing? -- that doesn't happen here.) They do what they say -- honesty is everything! Add to that efficiency and good people -- and their prices are fair. This is the ONLY place we're willing to trust for service on our boat. We'd give them 10 stars. read more