Sea Ray Living Vol. 17 Issue 02

SEA RAY

LIVING LAUNCH INTO LIVING

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 02

THE EXPLORATION ISSUE SIGHTSEE IN CROATIA | ESCAPE TO THE BAHAMAS CELEBRATE SUMMER IN MONTAUK | VISIT PANAMA CITY BEACH

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Optional equipment shown. ©2016 General Motors. All rights reserved. The marks appearing in this ad are the trademarks or service marks of GM, its subsidiaries, affiliates or licensors.

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THE MIDSIZE PICKUP ONLY GMC COULD BUILD.

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THE NEW CANYON IS HERE.

S E A R AY L I V I N G

CONTENTS

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SPOTLIGHT

F U L L - C O U RT P R E S S

No onesies and twosies, Sea Ray introduces a full half dozen new models designed to change the way you think about boating, including two outboard-powered thrillers, a handsome spin on the iconic Sundancer, and a luxurious new addition to the L-Class lineup.

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17 ISSUE 02

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S U M M E R C E L E B R AT I O N

A group of boaters known as the “B-Dock Family” joins more than 200 fellow Sea Ray owners in Montauk for MarineMax’s annual summer event. From sandcastles to boat tours to cocktail contests, it’s an event to remember.

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

A new SPX 210 Outboard opens up a world of adventure for a young family in Panama City Beach, Florida. Join the Albanos as they enjoy sugar-white beaches, emerald-green water and the easy accessibility of their zippy Sea Ray.

C R O AT I A

Several Sea Ray sport boats gather to explore Eastern Europe’s breathtaking Dalmatian Coast, darting between the area’s many craggy islands and soaking up world-class sunsets and Mediterranean cuisine.

C H A R M E D I N C H AT TA N O O G A

A Tennessee couple renews their romance with every outing on their Sundancer.

Mixing Caribbean soul with sweet Southern heat, they achieve the perfect balance of action and relaxation.

ISLAND ESCAPE

Tag along with Sea Ray as we chart a course to the historic and glamorous West Indies.

An L650 Fly proves an ideal method of transportation with which to island hop between Bahamian outposts.

08 LIFE

Enhance your Sea Ray lifestyle with the Life Collection—a sampling of finely c afted goods, delectable edibles and desirable experiences, assembled by the editors at Sea Ray Living.

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D E S T I N AT I O N S

The “Show Me State” shows off its best attribute: ac e upon acre of glimmering inland lakes.

A spacious Sea Ray SDX paired with a sophisticated GMC Denali provides the all-access pass.

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TECHNOLOGY

Raymarine delivers cuttingedge technology and beautiful displays that provide for effortless navigation and complement the helm of a Sea Ray yacht beautifully.

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S E A R AY L I V I N G

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Sea Ray Living

VOLUME

17 ISSUE 02

There is nothing quite like discovering a new place. When your mode of exploration is a Sea Ray, the possibilities are endless. Recall the last time you happened upon somewhere that was so amazing, its every sensation planted firmly into your memory. That’s what this issue of Sea Ray Living is all about: Discovering new places, enjoying new experiences, and doing it all confidently, knowing that the familiar comfort of your Sea Ray will get you there and back in style.

At Sea Ray, we take pride in helping our customers explore, whether it’s finding a quiet cove to spend the afternoon or cruising all the way to another country. We want to know what your dreams are. We cherish your feedback as we work hard to build better boats for you, year after year. This season, we’re continuing to push the envelope and are debuting not just one or two but six new boats, making sure that every need and preference is met in exciting new ways.

Whether you are a master entertainer, have a need for speed, or find new technology extremely enticing, there are upgrades and innovations that offer more freedom than ever to design your ideal boating experience. The new Fly 460 elevates entertaining with an expansive flybridge that can be fully enclosed, while its counterpart, the new Sundancer 460, gives express boaters an equally sophisticated option.

On the sport boat side, we’ve got two new outboard-powered SLX models that open the door to effortless all-day cruising and coving. The SLX 350 Outboard is the first Sea Ray to have triple Mercury® Verado engines, and features joystick control—and trust me, it’s a thrill to drive.

Meanwhile, the newest addition to our acclaimed L-Class, the L550 Fly, provides elegance and grace coupled with superior power and performance. Not to mention it comes equipped with the allnew Raymarine EmpirBus Digital Switching System, a revolutionary automation system like those found in high-end homes. (Check out page 20.) And that’s not all. Turn to page 66 to read more about all of the newest additions to our lineup.

The desire to explore is innate, and the occasional escape is good for the soul. With such an expansive lineup and the open waters ahead, it can sometimes be tough to figure out where to begin. Look no further than the pages of this issue of Sea Ray Living for travel inspiration: From Croatia to The Bahamas to Chattanooga, Tennessee, this issue is full of stories sure to awaken your adventurous side. One of our greatest joys here at Sea Ray is giving you the freedom to design your own escape when adventure calls... and we help you answer that call.

Whether you are a master entertainer, have a need for speed, or find new technology extremely enticing, there are upgrades and innovations that offer more freedom than ever to design your ideal boating experience.

Tim Schiek President, Sea Ray Boat Group

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ISSUE 02

CONTRIBUTORS 1

2

3

Robert

3 3

4

1 Jennifer

Chesak

“Charmed in Chattanooga” page 50 Jennifer’s Sea Ray Living adventures have taken her all over the world. Her writing has appeared in Trail Runner, Field & Stream online and many other publications. For this issue, Jennifer explores Chattanooga, Tennessee, onboard Mike and Allyson O’Neal’s Sundancer 410.

2 Mike

Calabro

“Endless Possibilities” page 32 “Island Escape” page 60 An adventure photographer and regular contributor to Sea Ray Living, Mike has documented subjects that include piranha fishing in the Amazon and grizzly bear watching in Glacier National Park. For this issue, Mike spent time with a young family in Panama City Beach and escaped to The Bahamas.

Glover

“Charmed in Chattanooga” page 50 Robert is a commercial photographer specializing in both studio and location photography. He obtained two degrees from the Southeast Center for Photographic Studies in Florida and has received numerous national advertising awards for his work. In this issue, Robert captures a Chattanooga couple who soak up quality time together onboard their Sundancer 410 on the waterways of Tennessee.

4 Beck

Nichol

“Full-Court Press” page 66 A writer based in Portland, Oregon, Beck has written about the city’s tech scene. He also loves blogging about his personal travels around the world, where he makes sure to sample the local fare and explore cultural gems via bicycle. In this issue, he introduces Sea Ray’s newest models.

Tim Schiek President | Brad Anderson Senior VP and General Manager, Sport Boats & Sport Cruisers Scott Ward Senior VP and General Manager, Sport Yachts & Yachts | Shelby Kirby Director of Marketing

SEA RAY

LIVING

magazine

President, Publisher Douglas Leik | Editorial Director Randy Hess Managing Editor Amy Wideman | Senior Editor Elli Purtell Editor at Large Jennifer Chesak | Editor at Large Alexa Poteet | Assistant Editor Colleen Tolan Creative Director Russell Duncan | Digital Creative Director Kraig Devenport Art Director Justin Goode | Graphic Designer Brittany Huisenga Contributors Audrey Bess, Beck Nichols, William Randolph Photographers Mike Calabro, Jim Gallop, Robert Glover, Richard Steinberger

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Sea Ray Living is published for Sea Ray Boats by Dino Publishing LLC. Any correspondence should be directed to: Dino Publishing, 350 W. Hubbard St. Suite 400, Chicago, IL 60654 www.dinopublishing.com email: dleik@dinopublishing.com The opinions expressed in this magazine are not to be considered official expressions of Dino Publishing or Sea Ray. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all editorial or advertising matter. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, or artwork. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph, or ­illustration without prior written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Printed in U.S.A. Copyright © 2016 Sea Ray Boats.

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7279 - NAM Generations Daughter - SeaRay_11.875 x 9.375 16/12/2015 09:09 Page 1

Micron: Generations of Innovation Every parent hopes their children will do well and have a better life than they did. At Interlux, we feel the same way about the products we make.

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From the long lasting and always dependable Micron CSC to our new, powerful water-based Micron Optima with Activated Biolux®, we build on our past success to deliver state of the art protection today.

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All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2015.

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[ S E A R AY L I V I N G ]

LI FE LIFE & TIMES:

COAST OF CROATIA Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast offers boaters an endless array of sensory delights, from the breeze wafting over fields of rosemary, to the sparkling blue and turquoise shades of the Adriatic Sea, to the robust, briny flavors of an olive oil- and seafood-rich cuisine. Sights like the “Maiden with the Seagull” statue (at left), perched on the reef beside the Lungomare promenade in Opatija, give visitors plenty of material with which to earn Facebook bragging rights.

Thousands of resorts and hotels stretch along the Makarska Riviera and beyond, providing accommodations for tourists drawn to the area’s stunning bays and beaches. Craggy Mount Biokovo forms a dramatic backdrop. To the south, quiet fishing villages nestled among deep green cypresses and pines provide a peaceful counterbalance. In all, Croatia’s coast may be among the most epic places to captain a Sea Ray. Read more on page 38.

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S E A R AY

LIFE

THE COLLECTION A taste for the finer things is what brought you to Sea Ray. To further cultivate your boating lifestyle, we bring you the Life Collection. Selected by the editors of Sea Ray Living, the Life Collection includes exquisitely crafted goods and covetable experiences—in short, a guide to the well-lived life, both on and off the water.

SILVER LINING

Oscar de la Renta Tulip Gunmetal Tone Crystal Choker Catch the season’s most flattering trend with this gorgeous choker necklace, cast from gunmetal-tone pewter and embellished with crystals the color of a stormy ocean sky. ($1,090; nuji.com)

BOWLED OVER Warp Bowl

For that unadorned nook in your Sea Ray’s galley, the large Warp Bowl from Tom Dixon reflects and refracts light with its luster glaze, an effect reminiscent of an insect’s wing. ($340; tomdixon.net)

TIME AFTER TIME

Vulcain Nautical DLC Men’s Watch

Water resistant to 1,000 feet, Vulcain’s stylish timepiece looks sharp and stands up to a dip in the lake or a dive in the sea.

Stainless steel case features ultra-durable carbon Diamond Like Coating (DLC) and a calfskin leather strap. ($4,533; jomashop.com)

CASE-BY-CASE BASIS Allyn Bag

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This versatile case goes from a day on the water to a night on the town. Available in an array of vibrant, leather-free finishes with a zip-top closure and removable strap, it holds a tablet or large smartphone, notepad and more. ($188; bygofish.com)

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S E A R AY

LIFE

MARCH OF THE PENGUINS Pingy the Penguin by Eero Aarnio

Even if you can’t cruise the far southern hemisphere, you can still enjoy a piece of it with this charming penguin figurine. A rounded bottom allows him to roll, tumble and waddle, mimicking the real thing. ($435; yliving.com)

SHIP’S AHOY!

Pirate Corsair Wood Model Ship Kit Build an authentically detailed model pirate ship with this addictive kit. Includes boxwood blocks and deadeyes, hand-sewn sails and flags, 16 brass cannons and even a tiny model lifeboat. ($265; seagifts.com)

SHUFFLE THE DECK Playing card set

A perfect gift for the bridge player in your life, Son of a Sailor’s King Set includes a deck of beautiful Monarch gold-foil cards in a handsome leather carrying case with a solid brass Chicago screw. ($59; sonofasailor.co)

CATCH THE WAVE

Sea Ray Living

SURFING: 1778-Today, by Jim Helmann Art-book publisher Taschen presents a comprehensive visual history in SURFING, an epic read that draws on years of meticulous research and features more than 900 images. It’s not just a sport; it’s a philosophy. ($200; taschen.com)

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Lucrecia Valdez Master Roller 36 years of experience

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S E A R AY

LIFE

SEE THE LIGHT Lumio Lamp in Walnut

This is no mere notebook; Lumio is a dynamic lamp concealed in a hardcover book. It opens 360 degrees and comes with a custom micro-USB charger, magnetic wooden pegs for mounting and a leather strap for hanging. Brilliant! ($190; hellolumio.com)

WATCHFUL EYE Withings HD Camera

Security is a beautiful thing with the Withings home monitoring system. This sleek, smart HD video camera streams live and recorded surveillance footage to your smartphone or tablet, offering added peace of mind when you’re out on your Sea Ray. ($199; withings.com)

MEMORY SAVER Echo Flash Drive

Store your data in style with this whimsical, hand-painted 16 GB flash drive. Walnut wood comes accented with a choice of bold colors including mustard, periwinkle or bright red, so your files can reflect your good taste. ($36; sonofasailor.co)

GO FOR THE GLOW Sea Ray Living

Bel Occhio Table Lamp

Flood your home with light the way your Sea Ray’s sunroof does with Bel Occhio’s spherical acrylic lamp, available in white or orange. Functions as both a multi-position spotlight and an ambient table lamp. ($385; ylighting.com)

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10/6/16 11:25 AM

#GETOUTHERE

BYOB (BRING YOUR OWN BOAT)

LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED

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Out here, all you need is a boat and a thirst for adventure. From Bimini to The Abacos to Eleuthera to Harbour Island, use your $300 fuel credit to chart your own course across The Bahamas Out Islands.*

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*One instant $300 fuel credit per stay at a certified and participating marina combined with a 4-night minimum consecutive stay at a participating BOIPB member hotel. Not combinable with any other credit promotions.

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S E A R AY

LIFE KEEP BALM IN CARRY-ON Holdall No. 101

Planning an overnight on your Sea Ray? Carry your toiletries in style: Ghurka’s calfskin leather dopp kit features an adjustable fold-end design with ample room for all your essentials. ($275; ghurka.com)

WINE AND DINE

Menu Baggy Wine Coat by Jakob Wagner

Boxed wine has enjoyed a renaissance in recent years, and now there’s a carrying case to match: The Baggy Wine Coat holds a standard boxed wine bag in an attractive, portable satchel, perfect for toting to your next docktail hour. ($63; abodemodern.com)

RAISE A GLASS

Plum Moscow Mule Mug Set

The classic cocktail gets a chic upgrade with this two-mug set. Coated in high-shine copper with stainless steel interior, designer Tom Dixon’s glassware will elevate any evening gathering in the cockpit. ($80; yliving.com)

MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT

Sea Ray Living

GMC Yukon Denali

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With its bold styling and signature Denali grille, the 2017 GMC® Yukon® Denali® makes quite a statement. Whether you’re heading to the launch ramp with your Sea Ray in tow or dropping the kids at softball practice, count on interior features like premium, perforated leather-appointed seating, burnished aluminum trim and poplar wood accents to wrap everyone in comfort. And with a comprehensive array of driver-alert technologies, including Safety Alert Driver Seat, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist and more, the Yukon Denali will earn a place in the heart of anyone who drives it.

Visit gmc.com for more information.

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Images for illustrative purpose only

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5/19/16 11:38 AM

LIFE

D E S T I NAT I O N S

SHOW ME THE LAKES Missouri, the Show Me State, is a Sea Ray owner’s paradise

Sea Ray Living

This Midwestern state is situated within a day’s drive of about half of the U.S. population, making it incredibly accessible. It may come as a surprise to learn that Missouri is also home to some of the clearest and largest manmade lakes in the country. Tucked away within its wide green expanses are some must-see bodies of water. Living in the “Show Me State,” Missourians pride themselves on a healthy skepticism and invite all to “come and see” for themselves. But it doesn’t take more than a quick visit to observe that Missouri contains incredible waterways, all within a relatively short drive of one another. Hop into a GMC Yukon Denali with a Sea Ray SDX 240 in tow and the many hidden gems of Missouri are yours to enjoy.

LAKE OF THE OZARKS Deep in the heart of the Ozarks is the meandering Lake of the Ozarks, nicknamed “The Magic Dragon.” The Lake has a surface area of 54,000 acres with 1,150 miles of shoreline and is more than 92 miles long, with a dramatic, serpentine shape. Upon arrival you’ll find wide stretches of lake with clean, clear water, nestled in among the flourishing vistas of the state park. This means, if you can peel yourself away from the water long enough, several other activities await, including hours of hiking, free wine tours and golf galore. The state park also offers nine publicaccess boat ramps with gas docks to launch and load up your Sea Ray for a fun-filled day on the water.

STOCKTON LAKE After you’ve soaked up all that Lake of the Ozarks has to offer, head 80 miles southwest and you’ll find one of the most pristine lakes in the area, Stockton Lake. This glimmering body of water has 300 miles of shoreline, making it the perfect place to drop in your Sea Ray, sit back, relax and enjoy. Cruise around Stockton Lake to find quiet coves and private pockets to drop anchor and swim awhile.

Be sure to gaze in all directions; you’re likely to see a deer drinking from a nearby stream or an eagle overhead. Take several relaxing deep breaths and enjoy all the freshwater and gorgeous scenery that Stockton Lake has to offer.

WRITTEN BY COLLEEN TOLAN TRAILERING PHOTOS BY MIKE CALABRO

SOPHISTICATED STRENGTH The GMC Yukon Denali, like the SDX 240 it tows, is the definition of uncompromised craftsmanship, comfort and capability. True innovation and unmistakable luxury combine to powerful effect in this premium SUV. Visit GMC.com for more information.

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(Above) Sunset over Lake of the Ozarks is truly a sight to behold. (Inset and opposite) A sophisticated GMC Yukon Denali and a Sea Ray SDX 240 make a winning pair.

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By way of Branson, Table Rock is just a short drive from a plethora of activities.

TABLE ROCK LAKE Once sufficiently relaxed, hop in your GMC Yukon Denali and travel south a few hours toward Table Rock Lake. By way of Branson, Table Rock is just a short drive from a plethora of activities. Between the city’s many lively attractions and the beautiful rolling hills of Missouri, your drive will be anything but dull. Emerge from the Dogwood-lined roads onto Highway 76, a.k.a. “The Strip,” Branson’s main stretch of fun, where you’ll find everything from an eclectic array of performing groups to specialty and outlet stores to hundreds of restaurants.

Sea Ray Living

Catch a show at the historic Owen theater, watch the thrilling Acrobats of China or tour the Titanic Museum (shaped like the actual boat) before escaping to the lake.

Upon arrival at Table Rock, you will find several resorts and public launches ringing the 45,000 surface acres the lake has to offer, making for an easy, breezy family vacation spot. Be sure to bring your skis, tube or wakeboard along for maximum excitement on these powerboat-friendly waters.

If watersports aren’t for you, rest assured that the diverse ecosystem of Table Rock Lake offers stunning scenery and great bass and walleye fishing. Pack a map or a reliable GPS, as the twists and turns of this lake can look quite similar and indistinguishable. If you find yourself a little lost, just look for the mile markers to help determine your location on the lake. And with two MarineMax locations conveniently nearby—MarineMax Branson and MarineMax Lake Ozark—you’ve got a friendly crew of experts ready to answer any questions or help with any service needs. SR

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APR is fixed for the life of the loan. Lower rates with shorter loan terms are also available.

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WE ALSO OFFER: Live-Aboard financing | Loans for older boats (1919–1995) | Loans for part- and full-time charters *Estimated APR (Annual Percentage Rate). Subject to consumer loan program requirements and credit approval. Certain fees, closing costs, and restrictions may apply. APR applied to the loan is the APR in effect on the date the application is received and is valid until 30 days after the loan is approved. APRs may vary with loan term. Boat must be 1996 model year or newer; for boats model year 1996 to 2005, add .25% to above rate. Maximum loan-to-value is 90%. Maximum loan term based on model year, loan amount, loan type, and lender guidelines. Other rates with different loan terms are available. Example of a recreational use Boat loan: A 10 year fixed-rate $55,000 loan. Based on an APR of 3.99%, this loan has 120 monthly payments of $556.95 each.

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LIFE

TECHNOLOGY

WHEN SLEEK MEETS SAVVY

Sea Ray Living

Raymarine technology is Sea Ray’s partner in sophistication

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Sea Ray’s L-Class is designed with purpose, with the mission of achieving the perfect balance of style and substance.

Leading marine electronics partner Raymarine® delivers cutting-edge technology and beautiful displays that maintain a yacht’s elegant look and feel. When paired together, Raymarine and L-Class make a sophisticated and highly complementary statement, elevating on-water luxury.

Raymarine’s flagship product, the gS-Series Glass Bridge Multifunction Navigation System, is available on every Sea Ray L-Class yacht. With its all-glass, touchscreen design, the gS-Series blends seamlessly with the sleek L-Class helm. “Where many yacht electronics systems look like a hodgepodge of dissimilar devices, Raymarine’s gS-Series matches the modern styling found on L-Class yachts,” says James McGowan, marketing manager at FLIR Systems, Raymarine’s parent brand.

Underneath its stylish appearance, the gS-Series boasts a depth of technology, running on Raymarine’s easy-touse LightHouse™ II operating system, a high-contrast color interface designed for clear readability in all lighting.

The gS-Series and LightHouse II feature oversized smartphone-inspired icons that take you right to your mostneeded navigation apps. “The gS-Series and LightHouse II may be incredibly intelligent, but the experience is designed to be immediately intuitive,” James says.

Every Raymarine-equipped Sea Ray also includes C-MAP, a worldwide library of highly accurate and easy-toread electronics charts, so you can cruise as far as you’d like with confidence. The C-MAP system aggregates electronics charts from other leading chart makers like Navionics, NVDigital, Standard Mapping and more to give you the best variety and options available.

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Beyond GPS and mapping, the gS-Series system also features Raymarine’s high-definition color radar system to provide all-weather navigation capability. The L-Class can be optioned with a Raymarine Thermal Night Vision camera system by FLIR. This camera works day or night, enhancing safety and situational awareness in crowded harbors and on open seas. The camera is fully integrated with gS-Series displays and can pan and tilt via touch control from any display onboard. The camera can also automatically locate and track other yachts or features of interest that are cued to the camera by touching the electronic map or from the radar’s target tracking system.

As Sea Ray prepares to launch exciting new models in the L-Class lineup, Raymarine has the innovations to match.

The new models will be fitted with the EmpirBus Digital Switching System, a revolutionary automation system like those found in high-end homes. The touch displays can control all of the major electrical, lighting, HVAC and mechanical systems onboard the yacht through a custom graphical interface. The system also provides monitoring for critical systems, alarms and alerts, and even has the ability to communicate and be controlled via remote text messaging.

“Raymarine is always working toward developing ever more sophisticated products, much like Sea Ray,” James says.

“The L-Class provides the ideal platform for running our wide range of beautiful and advanced technology.” SR

WRITTEN BY ELLI THOMPSON PURTELL PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEA RAY

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u A spirit of camaraderie flowed through the balmy August air as MarineMax hosted its annual Sea Ray Summer event, the Montauk Rendezvous. More than 60 Sea Rays, ranging from 29 feet to 59 feet, arrived at the beautiful Montauk Yacht Club in New York to celebrate the height of the season. In all, more than 220 people— both new and repeat Sea Ray owners—descended on the Hamptons, traveling from as far as Connecticut, Rhode Island and New York City, as well as from the North and South Shores of Long Island, for three days of fun in the sun.

A group from the MarineMax marina in Lindenhurst, New York, made the journey together.

The “B-Dock family,” as they’re affectionately known, comprises seven Sea Ray boats, ranging from an Amberjack 290 to a Sundancer 370. The group members’ ages range from the mid 30s up to the late 70s, along with a full contingent of children and siblings who, together, make a family complete. Their unique bond is fueled by their shared love of the Sea Ray lifestyle and a genuine love for one another.

B-Docker and Sundancer 340 owner Bob Stefania explains a bit about the group dynamic.

“I’m on my sixth boat, and my 16-year-old daughter, Maria, has a small boat of her own,” he says. “Every Friday, we all get together and head toward Fire Island or just hang out at the marina. Together we celebrate birthdays, holiday dinners, Caribbean Cruises, and all the MarineMax getaways.”

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Sea Ray Living

“The Sea Ray Montauk Rendezvous is our favorite. Usually everyone in our family takes part, and we have a blast!”

Naturally, Montauk is a popular one for Bob, wife Gina, Maria and the Stefanias’ other children, Claudia and Vincent. “The Sea Ray Montauk Rendezvous is our favorite,” Bob says. “We’ve been going for the last eight years. Usually everyone in our family takes part, and we have a blast! All the kids share in the adventure.”

For 2016, that adventure kicked off with a Mexican-themed docktail party on Friday night. Over spicy tacos, fresh salsa and frosty margaritas, the group laughed and mingled until well after sundown. Three sophisticated new Sea Ray models, the 2016 Sundancer 470, Sundancer 510 and Fly 510, as well as a preowned Sundancer 470, were available for participants to walk through and ask questions.

More than one commented on the Fly 510’s flybridge, noting its capacity for entertaining.

Saturday dawned to brilliant blue skies and a full agenda of events for all ages and tastes.

Early risers started their day with a relaxing hour of yoga in the grass under a cluster of leafy trees. By mid-morning, a group of kids, parents and grandparents were up to their elbows in sand on the beach, joyfully constructing palaces of all shapes and sizes for the No Hassle Sandcastle building.

The B-Dock family—which also includes Sundancer 340 owners Don and Karen Cook; Sundancer 330 owners Jean and Thamani Lambre; and Sundancer 330 owners Lori Stier and Mike Rodriguez—threw itself into the festivities full-on.

This group often finds itself engaged in a little friendly competition; when you’ve been together as long as they have, the games practically invent themselves.

Whether it’s sandcastle crafting, squirt-gun fights, impromptu dance-offs or just relaying the best boating stories from the past year, events like Montauk are a chance to make fun priority number one.

Mike and Darcia Padilla, owners of Sundancer 340 Yassau, have been a part of the scene in Lindenhurst for more than 20 years, and attending events like the Montauk Rendezvous for nearly as long. “Our gang has truly got that family feel,” Mike says.

For them, even smaller dock parties become major events. Mike and Darcia cite the annual Crab Races that take place in the marina’s parking lot, where unsuspecting crustacean competitors “race” through a course outlined in duct tape, and Sundancer 340 owners Joe and Kelly Confessore play referee.

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Multiple generations of Sea Ray boaters converged on Montauk for a weekend of fun, with music and dancing, beach activities and Sea Rays galore.

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Sea Ray Living

Referee skills came in handy during another highlight of the Montauk Rendezvous: a lively mixology showdown in which contestants vied to concoct the best drink. Judges gave careful attention to the colorful brews, with points given to ingredients, presentation and general creativity used in naming each signature creation. Adventurous palates were rewarded.

In true East Coast summer fashion, the weather was hot but the party was hotter as Saturday night rolled around. MarineMax hosted an incredible “Summer Elegance” evening at the Montauk Downs Golf Course, a spectacular setting just 2 miles from the daytime activities. The group was transported to the clubhouse’s beautiful rooftop terrace where, surrounded by panoramic views of Montauk and overlooking a Robert Trent Jones-designed 18-hole golf course, they ate and danced the night away.

The group was transported to the clubhouse’s beautiful rooftop terrace where, surrounded by panoramic views, they ate and danced the night away.

B-Dock boaters Jim and Colleen McLeavy, owners of Jolly-Mon, an Amberjack 290, also cherish the close ties and the memories they make at events like the Montauk gathering and well beyond. “Our marina family travels together in the summer, but the party doesn’t stop there,” Jim says. “We see each other all year long, and each time it’s an opportunity to get more pumped up for the following boating season.”

By Sunday morning, lasting friendships had been cemented and a healthy stash of new memories had been logged. But before the flotillas departed for home, the group shared one last farewell breakfast and hugs over coffee and croissants. And before the lines were cast off and the fenders were stowed, friends old and new were already making plans for next year’s Rendezvous. SR

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Photo courtesy of SeaRay

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ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

A NEW SPX 210 OUTBOARD OPENS UP A WORLD OF ADVENTURE FOR A FAMILY IN PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

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WRITTEN BY AMY WIDEMAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE CALABRO

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Born and raised in Panama City Beach, Allison Albano and her husband, Sal, are a poster couple for the water-centric Florida lifestyle. For as long as they can remember, boats have been a fundamental part of their recreation time, and they’ve worked to ensure the same for their two young kids. “Sal and I both grew up around boats. Our parents each had boats. So we have childhood memories of boating and we wanted that for our children,” Allison describes.

“It’s those memories of throwing a fishing line over the boat, being out on the water…

You hold onto those forever.”

(Previous pages) Sal and Allison cozy up in the bow of their SPX 210 Outboard, a zippy sport boat that appeals to their sense of style.

(Opposite) Luca’s enthusiasm for the sun, sand and water is joyously apparent.

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It doesn’t hurt that those memories are colored in brilliant shades of green, blue and shimmering white. Panama City Beach is a drive-to destination for visitors from all over the Southeast, and it’s easy to see why. Sugar-white sand and emerald water stretch as far as the eye can see.

For nine or ten months out of the year, the temperature stays between 70 and 95 degrees, with October and November topping the glorious-boating-weather charts. And despite any MTV-style antics of years past, a recent ban on beach drinking helps keep the Spring Break craziness to a minimum. “It’s like old Florida. Clean beaches, family-friendly,” Allison says. “And the color of the water is incredible.”

When they were ready to purchase their first boat together, the Albanos didn’t have to search long before landing in a new SPX 210 Outboard. A 200-horsepower Mercury® Verado engine and Select package was an attention-grabber. “The upholstery was a showstopper,” Allison says. “That snazzy two-tone interior is like something you’d get in a car. The outboard power was definitely a factor, too, and so was the safety. We felt like the kids were sitting deep in the boat, snug and secure.”

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“The upholstery was an attention-grabber. That snazzy two-tone interior is like something you’d get in a car.”

(These pages) Allison, Sal, Luca and Bijou prove there’s no bad seat when you’re on a Sea Ray. The bow happens to be a favorite spot for Bijou, who prefers her fun at full-throttle.

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The thrill of owning their own boat after years of relying on others’ was undeniable. “We’d been going out on friends’ boats and renting boats…” Allison explains. “The Gulf is in our backyard!

You need a boat. So we decided, the kids are old enough now, swimming like little fish. It was time. You rent a pontoon, you don’t necessarily know what you’re going to get. We wanted the same quality every outing.”

“The first time we met up with friends out on their boats, we sure were excited to bring our Sea Ray instead of a pontoon that says RENTAL on the side,” she adds with a laugh.

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“It’s an added thing we can do: get on the water instead of just on the beach.

And the beach is nice, but the Sea Ray gets us away from the hustle and bustle.”

For nine-year-old Bijou and her five-year-old brother, Luca, the SPX represents playtime at its finest. They get to connect with Sal’s two grown children and grandchildren, enjoying the perks that come with a big family. Not to mention the aunts and uncles; as one of eight siblings, Sal has many relatives who love to visit.

“When they come to town, it’s an added thing we can do: get on the water instead of just on the beach,” Allison says. “And the beach is nice, but the Sea Ray gets us away from the hustle and bustle.”

The solace of their Sea Ray is beneficial in myriad ways. It was important to Allison and Sal that Bijou, who has autism, felt at peace on the boat. They could tell almost immediately that they’d found her happy place. “Bijou likes to go fast. Like, fullthrottle. She loves to hold onto the light at the bow like a little hood ornament. She’s a fixture up there,” Allison says, beaming.

“Where she and Luca used to slowly ease off the back of the boat when they wanted to swim, now they’re jumping off the bow.

Both my kids are spreading their wings.”

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Adding the Sea Ray to their lives has given them an ideal way to bond and relax together.

“We don’t have a conventional family; we’re not soccer parents. We don’t have that typical structured weekend,” Allison explains. “The water is very therapeutic for Bijou. And not just her but the whole family.”

The combination of a Sea Ray and a prime location definitely has its advantages.

The Albanos are able to frequent tranquil Shell Island, a quick five-minute trip by boat, where they can anchor in the bay, explore the dunes, collect the island’s namesake shells, and soak up the sight of the Gulf before jumping back on the boat in search of dinner. Uncle Ernie’s, a popular bayfront restaurant known for its sunset views, is a favorite.

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Sea Ray Living

Future plans for the family include traveling down the Gulf to Destin, Florida, for day trips. The SPX Outboard also gives them the flexibility to pull onto shore and camp overnight. Each July, a visit to St. Joe on the bay will be in order; the healthy scallop population guarantees some excellent dinners. “The bay scallops are so small and so good,” Allison says. “Plus they’re free! You harvest them snorkeling.”

The Albanos credit MarineMax for making their shopping experience seamless, and they look forward to staying involved with MarineMax’s thriving community of Sea Ray owners. “MarineMax was awesome throughout the process,” Allison says.

“Shannon Payne, our salesperson, was my first introduction to boat shopping. He was so informative. Richard Brooks, the manager, was too. We finalized our deal in about a week, and they brought our boat from Stuart. That week MarineMax had a meet-and-greet event on Friday evening, which was a lot of fun.”

“MarineMax has the same mindset where they value the relationship.

The excellent service outweighs anything else.”

“We had other options, being in Florida, but we wanted to establish a relationship with them,” she continues. “Working in real estate and sales, I plan to keep my clients for life. I think MarineMax has the same mindset where they value the relationship. The excellent service outweighs anything else.”

And for the foreseeable future, the Albanos will continue enjoying Panama City Beach to the fullest, venturing into new activities as Bijou and Luca grow older and braver still. “It’s nice to have the option of tubing or wakeboarding, maybe even fishing,” Allison says. “We plan to keep the boat for every bit of five years, if not more. We have room to grow with it.

We’re excited for the possibilities ahead.” SR

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PAIRS WELL WITH A

FREE SPIRIT

lake wakatipu, queenstown, new zealand www.nobilowines.com follow us at facebook.com/nobilowines Please enjoy our wines responsibly. © 2015 Constellation Imports, Gonzales, CA

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CROATI A SEA RAY SPORT BOATS GATHER TO EXPLORE EASTERN EUROPE’S BREATHTAKING DALMATIAN COAST

W R I T T E N B Y ALEXA M. POTEET PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE JONES, MICHAEL KAUFFMAN & RUI BAIÃO

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On the rocky dalmatian coastline of Croatia, sun-browned boaters sip sljivovica, a sweet plum brandy, and trade stories of their afternoon cruising the cerulean Adriatic. There are more than 1,000 islands freckling the sea here, after all, enough for a lifetime of exploring. In recent years, boaters have flocked to this coastal country to enjoy watersports, olive farms and the beautiful dogs that Disney’s Cruella De Vil made so famous stateside. Wherever there’s a great cruising destination, Sea Rays are bound to play, so we took some of our favorite models out to discover the enviable islands and pristine beaches that should make your boating bucket list.

Start your cruise of a lifetime in Croatia’s second-largest city, Split. From the water, you’ll get uniquely beautiful views of Diocletian’s palace, which comprises almost half of the historical center of the city. Built by the late Roman emperor in preparation for his retirement in 300 AD, the fortress lies on a bay on the south side of the coast. The well-preserved complex enjoys status as a UNESCO World Heritage site and houses a maze of attractive shops and restaurants you can explore after you soak up the day’s vitamin D on the bow.

Especially from the comfort of your Sea Ray, you may recognize the palace’s alter ego—a royal backdrop for HBO powerhouse Game of Thrones. Pull into the harbor to enjoy some people watching along the Riva, a palm-studded walkway at water’s edge dotted with cafes good for lunch. For beachcombers, Bacvice

Sea Ray Living

beach is a perfect place to hang on board for an afternoon. There, locals are bound to be playing a game of picigin—a shallow-water game of hot-potato where you keep a ball from falling into the sea.

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There are more than 1,000 islands freckling the sea here, enough for a lifetime of exploring.

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(Left) For residents of Croatia’s dramatic Dalmatian coast, life naturally orients itself toward the water and, at sunset, a spectacular show of light over the Adriatic. (Below) A Sea Ray sport boat is quite possibly the best platform from which to explore the region.

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Split’s status as the third largest port on the Mediterranean means there’s an eclectic mix of languages and food to enjoy, too. Whether you’d like to practice your French, German or simply learn a few words of the native tongue, you’re bound to find a willing conversation partner—a practice made all the sweeter when you can nibble one of the local jelly-filled pastries by water’s edge. In the fall, anglers can hone their skills in Gariful Peskafondo, a squid-fishing tournament. (And even if you don’t fish, bring a little lemon and enjoy the spoils of the tournament instead.)

From Split, cruise on over to Solta, where you can disembark for a local olive oil tour with famed producer Olynthia. Enjoy native Dalmatian olives in the shade of the oldest cultivated tree in the world, nearly 1,000 years old. There, you’ll learn the finer points of tasting olive oil, much as you might with a fine wine.

Afterward, steer your Sea Ray over to Stomorska, a seaside town on the northeastern part of the island with a protected harbor good for mooring. The promenade there features many restaurants and open-air bars good for a cold beverage to wash down the rich olive oil of the morning.

Full of lavender fields and stone fruit trees, the fertile island of Hvar has much in common with Provence.

From there, you can follow winding lanes through several quaint old towns, such as Maslinica and Rogac, with their charming stone houses. For those who like to spend their afternoons in the deep blue, Diving Center Leomar provides opportunities to cave dive and see some spectacular shipwrecks. Plus, you can’t miss the palacinke, or sweet crepes, the Center’s operator, Leo, provides to hungry divers at day’s end.

If all the terra cotta houses, limestone cliffs and stony paths have you craving some greenery, the island of Hvar should be next on your cruising docket. Covered in lavender fields and stone fruit trees, the fertile island has more in common with Provence than the rocky Greek Isles to the southeast. Hvar produces nearly 8 percent of the world’s lavender oil, so bring home a sachet to remember it by. Farm-run lavender walks here are a soothing and therapeutic experience, no spa appointment necessary.

Whether you observe the violet-hued fields from the water or up close, next travel

by Sea Ray to the town of Hvar, one of the oldest in Europe. There, the hills of the Kabal Peninsula and the mountain ridge shield a deep water channel that boasts water so calm it won’t spill your onboard glass of babic, a popular local grape.

Cruise onward to Dubovica beach, one of the island’s loveliest turquoise beaches on the southern coast. Accessible only by boat, you can enjoy the small coffee bar there or simply soak up the unspoiled views. There are no sun beds on this remote beach, so your Sea Ray’s sunpad or open bow is sure to earn its keep. If you need to find extra shade, the Blue Cave and Green Cave of nearby islands Vis and Biševo—named for their cool, otherworldly glows—provide some instant relief.

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(Above) The head-turning SLX 250, shown with a forward-facing watersports tower and a multicolor gelcoat scheme only available in select European areas. (Opposite, top left) Local boaters relax on a Sea Ray Sun Sport 250. (Following page) A sleek new SDX 270 leads the pack.

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Sea Ray Living

If lavender was a highlight for you on Hvar, the olfactory experience of the Dalmatian Coast does not need to end there. The nearby island of Sveti Klement exudes a strong, savory perfume enjoyable even from the water thanks to its fields of aloe and rosemary. This curious little island is a man-made Garden of Eden of sorts.

Composed largely of a 300-year-old estate in Palmizana that was purchased by Italian professor and botanist Eugen Meneghello, the island boasts imported exotic plants from all over the world for a one-of-a-kind botanical park by the sea.

For sunbathers, the most lovely sandy beach on Sveti Klement, Vinogradisce, is only accessible from the water, so on a lucky day you might have the paradise all to yourself. Sea kayaks for rent there provide an opportunity to enjoy some exercise and relish the water up close. If your landlubbing guests are interested in cultural attractions, one of the Meneghello heirs has cultivated an island art gallery named Skorpion with a vast collection of maritime art.

With so many far-flung islands dotting this spectacular coast on the Adriatic, it’s difficult to choose where you might cruise on a given day. For Sea Ray owners, that’s definitely a good problem to have. With an incredible breadth of choices to occupy your days, from historical cruises to modern agrotourism, your next Dalmatian adventure can take on whatever character you choose. And when your feet grow weary from traversing ancient palaces, you can always curl up in your Sea Ray’s salon or cabin with Game of Thrones and a glass of Croatian brandy. Now, that’s living like true royalty. SR

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Historic Bayfront Tennis Estate

Exquisite Residence on San Diego Bay | Private Dock | Mills Act Designation

Offered at $14,750,000 | www.2905Nichols.com

Susana Corrigan & Patty Cohen | 858.229.8120 www.LaJollaResidential.com | scorrigan@lajollaresidential.com Š2016 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. CalBRE 01317331.

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CHARMED IN CHATTANOOGA A TENNESSEE COUPLE RENEWS THEIR ROMANCE WITH EVERY OUTING ON THEIR SUNDANCER

WRITTEN BY

JENNIFER CHESAK PHOTOGRAPHED BY

ROBERT GLOVER

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Michael and Allyson O’Neal call their Sea Ray Sundancer 410 Caribbean Soul as homage to their islandhopping and diving adventures. But anyone who meets the couple can see that they’ve made a mistake in naming their Sea Ray, and not because it rarely leaves Tennessee. Get to know them a bit, and the name they should have chosen becomes obvious.

“Isn’t she the prettiest deck hand you’ve ever seen?” Michael says. He gestures to his wife as she works the lines. She laughs, grabs the fenders and flashes a smile his way. Michael backs out of their slip at Gold Point Yacht Harbor near Chattanooga and heads out onto Chickamauga Lake.

“The quality is terrific,” he says of the Sundancer, preparing to get it up on plane. “We love it, design in and design out.” He looks back at Allyson, as she tears herself away from the 410’s sprawling sunpad, a feature that just begs to be used for stretching out and soaking up rays. Sea Ray designed the U-shaped settee to wrap around the transom, with backrests that swing open like gates to transform the seat into a large lounger. “I didn’t think I would use it that

Sea Ray Living

much,” Allyson admits, “but it’s become my favorite thing.”

(Previous pages) The O’Neals’ Sundancer feeds the Caribbean Soul they both harbor deep-down. (Opposite and following pages) Michael and Allyson get cozy at the helm and up on the bow, delighting in each other’s presence as usual.

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“The quality is terrific. We love it, design in and design out.�

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“The weekend is our time to be together, to unwind from work. Every Friday night, we get into a cove and drop anchor.�

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After a short cruise northward, the O’Neals drop anchor near Hidden Harbor to watch a group of kids catapult themselves from a rope swing and into the water, squealing as they let go. Each “splash!” represents a reprieve from the intense Southern heat. The lake’s shoreline, a lush mix of ash, oak, hemlock and pine atop rocky bluffs, shimmers green in the near distance.

“The weekend is our time to be together, to unwind from work,” Allyson explains, dangling her feet off the swim platform.

“Every Friday night starting in February, we get into a cove and drop anchor.”

The couple prefers secluded coves so they can be alone, except for any wildlife that decides to pay them a visit. (Deer, muskrat and bald eagle sightings are common.) In the warmer months, they like to bring along their stand-up paddleboards and get in some exercise on the lake. When winter comes around, they’ll bundle up and stargaze from the cockpit. “The sky and the air are so clear,” Michael says. “My favorite thing is getting up with the rising mist and having that first cup of coffee on the boat. It’s always the best cup.”

“My favorite thing is getting up with the rising mist and having that first cup of coffee on the boat. It’s always the best cup.”

These days, water activities are their number-one hobby, including diving trips in the Caribbean. Work and family tie them to the Chattanooga area, where they were both born and raised, and where Allyson is a hairstylist and Michael is a partner in a printing business. But when they discuss retirement, they dream about living onboard a Sea Ray in one of their favorite ports of call. “We talk about it all the time,” Michael says.

That’s not to say they don’t enjoy Chattanooga.

Locking through the dam and spending the night on the Tennessee River downtown near the Hunter Museum of American Art and the Tennessee Aquarium has plenty of appeal.

The O’Neals’ Sea Ray dealer, Erwin Marine Sales, has a riverfront location with transient dockage, making it easy for customers to tie up and enjoy the city.

The nearby Walnut Street Bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, and events like Wine Over Water, held in October, make the span a destination itself. “Something is going on musically or entertainment-wise downtown every weekend,” Michael says.

“There’s no shortage of things to do.”

The O’Neals like to hang out as spectators for rowing competitions and triathlons, and when all the people-watching builds up an appetite, Chattanooga’s growing foodie scene has much to offer—including made-from-scratch gelato and paletas at Milk & Honey, and breakfasts crafted with locally sourced ingredients at The Blue Plate. “Main Street Meats has the best burger you will ever eat,” Michael notes.

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(Above) On the bow, in the cockpit or settled into the cabin, the O’Neals enjoy an easy rhythm.

Their Sundancer 410 (opposite) facilitates the flow.

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A glowing sunset shines through the Market Street Bridge, which connects downtown Chattanooga to the Northshore District.

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One of the big boating perks of the region: the Tennessee Valley Authority system and its many reservoirs.

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Heading back to the swim platform, he reaches his hands out and helps Allyson to her feet. It’s a chivalrous gesture natural to them both, the kind that’s been a consistent factor in their 29 years of marriage. He pours her a glass of wine, and she readies a fruit plate with crackers and brie. They set the spread between them on the sunpad and chat about upcoming summer plans.

One of their favorite trips each summer is a weeklong cruise to Watts Bar Lake, living onboard the whole time. “It’s the most relaxing week,” Allyson says. That’s one of the big perks of the region: the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) system and its many reservoirs provide ample opportunity for recreation and allow boaters to explore different bodies of water and cities without ever having to put the boat on a trailer.

Rarely do the O’Neals hang out in a boat slip for long, but they appreciate the facilities available to them in the Chattanooga area.

Erwin Marine Sales also owns and operates Gold Point Yacht Harbor, where the O’Neals keep their boat on the lake, and another nearby facility, Chickamauga Marina, near the dam. Michael and Allyson are grateful they’re never far away from an Erwin employee.

“I don’t really look at them as a boat dealer; I see them as friends,” Michael says. He’s known his salesman, Brian McNeal, for more than two decades.

The O’Neals have been boaters since the late 1980s. Their first boat, a runabout, opened their eyes to the possibilities of exploring by water, but after 18 solid years with it they began to crave more than day-use capabilities.

Sea Ray’s Sundancer line caught their attention with its livability; they loved the sense of having all the amenities of home. In 2008, they purchased a new Sundancer 290 from Brian, then upgraded to a 2010 Sundancer 370 before ending up in the 410 in 2012.

“Sea Rays have great resale value, and there’s a reason for that,” Michael says. He credits the top-notch dealer network and the brand’s overall attention to customer service. Both he and Allyson have attended Sea Ray’s Yacht Expo, which they enjoyed immensely.

More than any other aspect, they adore the Sundancer 410 for its outdoor space. And, as an inseparable pair, they appreciate the 410’s natural, open flow from cockpit to helm, which means the captain and his beloved co-captain are never separated.

When Michael and Allyson first met, he told her he’d just found the woman he was going to marry. She was skeptical because, at the time, she was engaged to someone else. But Michael meant what he said, and time proved that he was right. It’s clear by the way he gazes at his wife now that he’s never stopped courting her. Sure, Caribbean Soul has a nice ring to it, but clearly this Sea Ray deserves another name: The Love Boat. SR

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ISLAND ESCAPE AN L650 FLY STEALS AWAY TO THE HISTORIC AND GLAMOROUS WEST INDIES

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W R I T T E N B Y ALEXA M. POTEET P H O T O G R A P H E D B Y MIKE CALABRO

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Throughout history, the idyllic islands of The Bahamas have been prized by everyone from Blackbeard to Christopher Columbus to the British Crown. It’s not hard to see why these shores have charmed so many. From the Crystal-clear water to sugar-white sand, the natural beauty of this country on the Lucayan Archipelago is legendary.

But there is more to be found here than a plethora of umbrella drinks—though rest assured they are plentiful. For discerning cruisers looking for a day at the beach and more, The Bahamas’ historic landmarks and modern glamour make it an enviable cruising destination.

Naturally, a location of such style and cultural substance begs for an equally compelling yacht, which is why Sea Ray Living recently cruised there aboard a new L650 Fly, determined to uncover all the stops you should make on your next island voyage.

With more than 700 islands and cays to explore, choosing where to begin your journey can be an odyssey in itself. Start in Bimini, the westernmost district of the Bahamas, a short 48-mile cruise from Miami. Resorts World Bimini is a perfect home-base and provides the largest yacht and marina complex in the Bahamas for the ultimate in ease. The hotel is an elegant hideaway with six restaurants onsite,

Sea Ray Living

including a full raw bar for discerning foodies.

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The Bahamas radiate a rainbow of colors, including turquoise water as far as the eye can see. A Sea Ray provides the perfect perch.

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Sea Ray Living

With more than 700 islands and cays to explore, choosing where to begin your journey can be an odyssey in itself.

For those seeking world-class angling, take after Ernest Hemmingway and discover Bimini’s exceptional big game fishing. Ernest wasn’t the only heavy hitter with a passion for Bimini, though. Juan Ponce de Leon thought the island home to the mythical Fountain of Youth. Perhaps he was thinking of the Healing Hole, a freshwater pool in North Bimini in a forest of mangroves. Outgoing tides pump mineral-rich fresh water into the Healing Hole due to the limestone bedrock. While we don’t recommend drinking it, a pilgrimage to dip in a toe is certainly a worthy trip.

After a day of exploring, kick up your feet and read about the history of bootlegger Bill McCoy who ran rum through Bimini to America during Prohibition. If you happen to visit onboard an L650 Fly, pour yourself a tipple of the real McCoy up on the flybridge.

There’s a full wet bar up there to keep your drink ice cold.

Next, cruise onward toward Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas on the island of New Providence. Moor your Sea Ray and step onto terra firma to step back in time.

Start your journey at Fort Fincastle, an impressive 18th-century fort constructed by the British to ward off possible invaders who might want to steal control of their lovely and lucrative colony. Fort Fincastle is the tallest point on New Providence, and while historically it was situated to provide a good lookout point, you can enjoy unparalleled views of the turquoise sea here.

Its appearance must have proved sufficiently menacing to marauders, as its cannons were never fired.

While at the fort, seek out the historically important Queen’s Staircase, a 102-foot staircase hand carved out of solid limestone by 600 slaves. The staircase took 16 full years to complete and, fittingly, was later named in honor of Queen Victoria, who signed a declaration to abolish slavery on her ascension to the throne in 1837.

For those looking to delve even earlier into Nassau’s history, stop at Blackbeard’s Tower, another lookout point, though this one from during the Republic of Pirates that ran Nassau from 1706 to 1718. Although the Jolly Roger doesn’t fly here any longer, Blackbeard’s Tower offers a special glimpse into the nation’s exciting and unusual history. If you’ve got romance on the brain, you can’t miss the Cloisters, the remains of a 14thcentury French monastery on Paradise Island across from downtown Nassau. Coated in moss and wildflowers, the monastery is one of only four ever to be removed from French soil—for the first time by newspaperman William Randolph Hearst, who imported it to the United States, and later Huntington Hardford, who brought it to the Bahamas.

The views of the monastery are even better from the water, so a sunset cruise onboard an L650 Fly will be a perfect form of vespers.

From Nassau, chart onward to wrap up your cruise of a lifetime in historic and glamorous Harbour Island near Eleuthera.

Often called the Martha’s Vineyard of the tropics, Harbour Island’s pink-sand beaches are nothing short of magnificent. Enjoy world-class cuisine at the Dunmore, a glam 1960s beach club with top-notch hospitality.

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You can also explore local haunt The Landing, whose perfectly curated British Colonial bar features its own house rum. The island is small, so when you’re not cruising the clearest waters or discovering dinnerplate-sized starfish, make like the locals and hop in a golf cart to scoot around—the island is only 3 miles by half a mile.

On a typical day in The Landing, you’ll probably cross paths with at least one celebrity, but much to everyone’s relief there are no paparazzi in this charming hamlet whose capital city, Dunmore Town, is pretty much the entire island. Diane Von Furstenburg, Dave Matthews and Elle MacPherson frequently visit “Briland,” perhaps attracted by the abundance of highend shops; The Blue Rooster, The Sugar Mill and Miss Mae’s all carry top-of-the-line goods, including local jewelry made out of the pinkest conch shells.

The Bahamas features as much activity below the surface of the water as it does above.

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Those seeking history here should check out Dunmore Cottage, home of former 19th century Virginia governor John Murray.

Loyal to the British during the American Revolution, Murray fled the United States for the Bahamas, along with many other crown sympathizers. He received the title Lord Dunmore for his faithfulness, and his is one of many pastel-colored conchstyle cottages that give this whole island a charmed, dollhouse feel.

You won’t want this journey to end, but boarding an L650 Fly for the Caribbean Sea will certainly make it all a little easier. Sea Ray owners Sarah and Max Gordon, who often cruise the Bahamas, shared, “It’s the perfect luxury destination to relax and refresh yourself during the long winter.”

We couldn’t agree more. After experiencing the charms of these islands yourself, you might start feeling as though all those loyalists had the right idea after all. SR

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VOLUME 17 ISSUE 02

S E A R AY S P O T L I G H T

FULL-COURT PRESS WRITTEN BY BECK NICHOL | PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF SEA RAY

Fly 460

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Sea Ray Living

No onesies and twosies, Sea Ray introduces a full half dozen new models designed to change the way you think about boating.

he process Sea Ray undertakes to develop a new model is comprehensive and exacting, all with the goal of delivering an excellent boat and boating experience. It’s a massive undertaking that involves talented people throughout the organization. It requires taking feedback from customers and dealers, working that through the development and engineering teams, integrating it into the manufacturing stream and out into the dealer network, with thousands of other tiny and huge steps along the way.

Sea Ray employees are justifiably proud each time a new model arrives at dealer showrooms and docks. This fall they outdid themselves, however, introducing six completely new models to help launch Model Year 2017 in style. With breakthroughs spanning the lineup, from versatile new sport boat propulsion options, to exciting new flybridge and coupe cruiser models, to an elegant new L-Class yacht, Sea Ray has something to please a wide variety of boaters this fall.

“We have set the stage for a phenomenal Model Year 2017,” says Tim Schiek, Sea Ray Boat Group president. “There are some truly innovative boats making their public debut, boats that address customer needs and preferences in exciting new ways.

We eagerly anticipate the fall season and the year ahead.”

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Sundancer 460

FLY 460—Elevated Entertaining Making its world premiere at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, this gorgeous new flybridge model advances Sea Ray performance and entertaining capabilities. The expansive flybridge, sure to be a social hub, is available with a stylish arch or a hardtop that can be fully enclosed. Rich finishes and premium amenities combine with an open, light-filled floorplan and gracious living quarters, while an optional Transom Gourmet Station with grill and a hydraulic swim platform with unique self-deploying stairs enhance water interaction. Sea Ray’s commitment to impeccable naval architecture is apparent in the Fly 460’s superior ride and handling, and an available joystick control system allows for effortless docking with shaft or Zeus systems.

SUNDANCER 460—Express Yourself The Sundancer 460 provides an express take on the Fly 460, and the two yachts can be seen side-by-side at the Fort Lauderdale show.

These brilliant entertaining platforms serve the needs of a diverse range of cruisers, offering a new level of style and performance.

From the full-beam master stateroom with abundant storage, to the expansive sunroof illuminating the salon, to the social cockpit with power-actuated aft seat and optional sunshades for superior protection, the Sundancer 460 delivers on Sea Ray’s promise of better boating.

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Sea Ray Living

L550 Fly

“With its luxurious modern styling, exquisite lines, superior performance and effortless livability, the new L550 Fly is a fitting addition to the L-Class lineup and an enticing new option for yacht customers.”

L550 FLY—Sophisticated Modern The stunning new L550 Fly joins the acclaimed L-Class family this fall. Like its larger L-Class siblings, the L550 Fly is a seamless marriage of style and substance, blending a sophisticated, modern aesthetic with the latest advances in design and propulsion. The interior boasts a beautiful sunlit salon and three luxurious staterooms.

A well-appointed flybridge is geared toward entertaining, and both the upper and lower helm stations feature state-of-the-art Raymarine® electronics. Twin 850-horsepower Caterpillar® inboards are available with joystick control for effortless docking, and an available Seakeeper® gyroscopic stabilizer adds comfort to what is already a resoundingly impressive ride.

“We’re thrilled to introduce the L550 Fly,” says Scott Ward, senior vice president and general manager, Sea Ray Sport Yachts and Yachts. “With its luxurious modern styling, exquisite lines, superior performance and effortless livability, the new L550 Fly is a fitting addition to the L-Class lineup and an enticing new option for yacht customers.”

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Sundancer 350 Coupe

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SUNDANCER 350 COUPE—Top It Off This exciting new variation on the iconic Sundancer series will also enjoy its debut and world premiere in Fort Lauderdale. Key attributes include the full-pane forward windshield; a full walkaround to the bow with its comfortable new foredeck seating; a spacious and social cockpit; and an interior that is distinctly inviting. The Sundancer 350 Coupe’s beautiful profile will make it a standout at any marina, while an expansive sunroof and opening side windows allow open flow of light and air. Below deck, two staterooms and a spacious head with enclosed shower lend extra comfort on long days and overnights.

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“Sea Ray is proud to offer boaters more freedom— freedom to select the layout, the power configuration and the features that best suit their boating environment and lifestyle” SLX 350 OUTBOARD—Triple Threat The versatile new SLX 350 Outboard, Sea Ray’s first model with triple outboard propulsion, and a fitting complement to Sea Ray’s popular SLX 350, also makes its debut at the Fort Lauderdale show.

The SLX 350 OB features an array of Next Wave™ innovations—the noise-quashing powers of Quiet Ride™ with Tuned Transom®; the precision and stability of Dynamic Running Surface™; the agility of Axius® joystick technology—all in a sleek, head-turning package, with a hardtop with retractable sunshade that delivers both good looks and ample shade from the sun.

“Sea Ray is proud to offer boaters more freedom — freedom to select the layout, the power configuration and the features that best suit their boating environment and lifestyle,” says Brad Anderson, senior vice president and general manager, Sea Ray Sport Boats and Sport Cruisers. “The SLX 350 Outboard delivers all the premium benefits of the beloved SLX 350, along with cutting-edge Mercury® Verado outboard power. For those who demand a boat geared for beaching, coving, speed, watersports and entertaining, without a single sacrifice in quality, comfort or style, the SLX 350 Outboard is second-to-none.”

SLX 350 Outboard

SLX 310 Outboard

Sea Ray Living

SLX 310 OUTBOARD—Free to Choose Sea Ray features another outboard option this year with the debut of the SLX 310 Outboard. Much like its sister model, the SLX 310, the Outboard embodies Sea Ray’s dedication to Orchestrated Excellence: the perfect balance of performance, convenience, technology and ease. Adding another propulsion option to the SLX 310 platform gives boaters the freedom to boat the way they want to.

Schiek sums it up nicely: “Sea Ray continues to push the envelope for performance, design and capability.” SR

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New Canvas.

New Adventures.

Whether you enjoy long weekends in a secluded cove on your Sea Ray or day trips enjoying watersports, you count on your boat’s canvas to make your boating experience more comfortable. When it’s time to replace your canvas, go directly to the company that Sea Ray trusts. Great Lakes Boat Top has more than 22,000 original canvas patterns so your new canvas fits and looks as good as it did on the showroom floor.

Request a no obligation quote online or call one of our canvas experts to confirm that we have your pattern available.

Through November 30, 2016, Sea Ray owners get 20% off any replacement canvas orders by using promo code: SRLNov16.

GREAT LAKES

• Original canvas patterns dating back to 1993.

• Fast turnaround — ships within 7 - 10 business days.

• 100% Satisfaction Guarantee and superior customer service.

• Bimini tops, cockpit covers, bow/tonneau covers, full enclosures and much more.

• Sturdy construction and marine hardware.

• Industry-leading Sunbrella canvas with a 10-year fabric warranty.

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S E A R AY

HORIZONS WAVE OF THE FUTURE

Coming in January 2017, Sea Ray will rewrite all the rules with a revolutionary new sport boat unlike any you’ve ever experienced. Luxury fit and finish, superior ride and handling, innovative hull design and cutting-edge propulsion technology will come together to elevate your time on the water into something totally new—and totally thrilling. Prepare to meet the newest player in the adrenaline-raising game. Prepare for Orchestrated Adventure.

*U.S. only (contiguous 48 states & District of Columbia).

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