KCN Marine

Operating out of Solomons, Maryland, KCN Marine brings a specialized mobile approach to boat repair and marine systems maintenance throughout the Chesapeake Bay region. Founded by husband-and-wife team Chas and Katie Norwood, the business combines over 40 years of combined technical experience in the marine industry with a commitment to on-site service that brings expertise directly to customers' vessels, whether moored at marinas or private docks.

Chas Norwood entered the marine technician field immediately after high school, building expertise across multiple systems over two decades of hands-on work. Katie Norwood graduated from the Diesel Institute of America before joining the marine service sector. The couple began working together professionally in 2018 and married at a waterside ceremony at Spring Cove Marina in 2021, fully embracing the Chesapeake Bay lifestyle they serve. Their personal connection to boating—they own a vessel named North Star and spend their off-hours swimming, fishing, and cruising with their two dogs—gives them practical insight into the needs and priorities of boat owners in the region.

KCN Marine specializes in the installation, troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance of marine electronics and electrical systems, with particular expertise in major brands including Simrad, B&G, Garmin, and Raymarine. Their marine electrical and electronics capabilities extend to complex integrated systems, navigation equipment, and communication devices. Beyond electronics, the team provides comprehensive engine repair and maintenance services for diesel and marine power systems from manufacturers including Cummins, John Deere, Yanmar, Beta, Westerbeke, and Perkins. Their generator service expertise covers Kohler, Onan, Northern Lights, Westerbeke, Phasor, Fischer Panda, and Mase units, ensuring vessels maintain reliable onboard power generation.

The business also addresses climate control and refrigeration systems, handling marine air conditioning installations and repairs that are essential for comfortable extended cruising on the Chesapeake Bay. Their mobile service model eliminates the logistical challenges of bringing boats to traditional repair facilities, instead delivering certified technical expertise to the vessel's location. This approach minimizes downtime and allows boat owners to maintain their vessels without the expense and inconvenience of haul-outs or extended yard stays for systems that can be serviced afloat.

KCN Marine distinguishes itself through an emphasis on clear communication and customer education. Beyond standard repair work, they offer consultation services and one-on-one instruction designed to help boat owners develop their own maintenance routines and better understand their vessel's systems. This educational component empowers owners to perform routine checks and identify potential issues early, complementing the professional services the business provides. Their experience spans both power and sail vessels of all sizes, giving them versatility across the diverse fleet profile typical of the mid-Atlantic cruising grounds.

As a locally-owned operation with deep roots in the Solomons area and the broader Chesapeake Bay boating community, KCN Marine has positioned itself as a responsive alternative to traditional boatyard service departments, offering specialized technical capabilities with the convenience and personalized attention that comes from a dedicated two-person team deeply committed to their craft and their customers' satisfaction.