Whaler Volume 4 Issue 2 by Dino Marketing Group

whaler THE

B O S T O N

UNSINKABLE

W H A L E R

LEGEND

B O A T S

volume 4 issue 2

M A G A Z I N E

www.bostonwhaler.com

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE

YOU CAN LEARN A LOT

FROM A SUBMARINE. LOOKING AT SOMETHING THAT APPEARS TO BE WORKING PERFECTLY THEN DEMANDING TO MAKE IT BETTER REQUIRES A VERY UNIQUE MIND-SET. IT IS PRECISELY THIS KIND OF THINKING THAT WENT INTO THE BED OF THE ALL-NEW SIERRA. FOR YEARS, A STAMPED-STEEL BED WAS THE STANDARD, AND STILL IS WHEN IT COMES TO ALL THE OTHER GUYS. HOWEVER, AT GMC WE DECIDED TO USE A ROLLED-STEEL PROCESS FOR THE SAME REASON SUBMARINE HULLS DO: STRONGER, LIGHTER AND MORE DURABLE STEEL. YOU SEE, OUR ROLL-FORMING PROCESS ALLOWS THE USE OF HIGHERSTRENGTH STEEL VERSUS A TRADITIONAL STAMPED DESIGN. THIS ADAMANT DESIRE TO FIX THE UNBROKEN MAKES IT EASY TO SEE WHY THE ALL-NEW SIERRA IS MORE THAN JUST A TRUCK. IT’S INCREDIBLE THINKING IN THE FORM OF A TRUCK.

THE ALL-NEW 2014 SIERRA. THAT’S PROFESSIONAL GRADE.

whaler president’sletter Keeping the legend growing.

President,BostonWhaler

Huw Bower

VicePresidentofSales, Marketing&CustomerService

Jeff Vaughn

MarketingProgramsSupervisor

Traci Davis

Sales&MarketingCoordinator

Jessica Mogus

WHALER

Magazine

President/Publisher

Douglas Leik

AccountExecutive

Annie Brown

EditorialDirector

Inspired

Randy Hess

DeputyEditor

Amy Wideman AssociateEditor

Inspiration comes in many forms. A conversation with a friend, a moving documentary, a pleasant encounter with a stranger—all can provide the “spark” to try something new, or to look at something familiar, differently.

At Boston Whaler, we seek inspiration in the voices of our passionate boaters and, in turn, seek to channel it into boats that empower ever-more terrific days on the water. at’s why we’re pleased to introduce new models designed with active families in mind, including the spectacular new 345 Conquest (catch a glimpse on page 4) and, excitingly, a whole new Dauntless family. Dauntless has always offered great versatility and hassle-free capability, and the new generation embodies this multicapable spirit more than ever. Turn to page 16 to learn more about how our mission to provide inspiration continues to drive innovation. e collection of stories in this issue really bears out that theme, from a boater in Switzerland who improved his daily commute by involving his Outrage (see page 22) to a Maine customer who uses his 345 Conquest to sightsee around New England’s beautiful coast (page 40). History buffs, enjoy a recounting of an We seek inspiration in epic journey through the Northwest Passage by none other the voices of our passionthan Sir Ranulph Fiennes, chartered aboard—you guessed it—a Boston Whaler (page 34). ate boaters and, in turn, Adventure, possibility, inspiration—large or small, far-flung or seek to channel it into close to home, every tale that takes place on your Boston Whaler is boats that empower memorable. Here’s to the many, many great stories that lie ahead.

ever-more terrific days on the water.

Huw Bower

President — Boston Whaler

Matthew Grosinger AssociateEditor

Elaine Short

EditorialAssociate

Kit Fox

ContentMarketingAssociate

Kaz Suzuki

CreativeDirector

Russell Duncan

DigitalCreativeDirector

Kraig Devenport

ProductionDirector

Robyn Bendle

GraphicDesigner

Brittany Huisenga GraphicDesigner

Arlene Waclawek Photographers

Jim Barrett, John Bildahl, Mike Calabro, Steven J. Conway, Jamie Elvidge, Robert Glover

Whaler magazine is published two times a year for Boston Whaler by Dino Publishing LLC. Any correspondence should be directed to: Dino Publishing 350 W. Hubbard St., Suite 400 Chicago, IL 60654 Tel: 312-822-9266 Fax: 312-822-9268 email: dleik@dinopublishing.com The opinions expressed in this magazine are not to be considered ofﬁcial expressions of Dino Publishing or Boston Whaler. 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 © 2014 Boston Whaler.

AUTOMAGIC THE NEW EVOLUTION AUTOPILOT

EV-1 9 Axis Sensor Core

A New Type of Autopilot The culmination of Raymarine autopilot expertise, FLIR Systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s R&D, and advanced aerospace guidance technology, Evolution autopilots deliver a new level of accurate autopilot control. Evolution perceives itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environment and then instantly calculates and evolves without any need for calibration. The result is precise and confident course keeping, regardless of vessel speed or sea conditions. This is autopilot performance so accurate and so simple you will think its autopilot magic.

See all that Evolution can do for you online at www.raymarine.com Imagery for illustrative purposes only.

whalermagazine

Contents

volume 4 issue 2

features

The Family Inspired

Multicapable and cutting-edge, the new Dauntless lineup marks an exciting chapter in the Boston Whaler legend.

Commuting, Improved

A boater in Switzerland finds the best route to work just happens to be by Whaler.

Happy Go Lucky

A Texas fisherman enjoys the best of the Gulf on a pair of Outrages, catching billfish, tuna, snapper and more.

Extreme Passage

In 1981, a Boston Whaler Outrage helped the world’s greatest living explorer chart an incredible course.

The Family Inspired

d e pa rt m e n ts

Navigate Sneak a peek at the new 345 Conquest, feast on a savory mussels recipe, see the latest from Raymarine® and more.

Towing Hitch up your boat and head for New England with our Boston-area road-trip itinerary and tips from the experts at GMC.

Quality Upgrading the sound system on your Whaler has never been easier, thanks to this advice from the JL Audio® team.

The Maine Attraction Boston Whaler helps a busy doctor enjoy the Down East lifestyle to the fullest, exploring Maine’s storybook coastline and entertaining friends.

on the cover: The new 270 Dauntless is in its element whether fishing, playing or cruising to dinner.

Photo by Richard Steinberger

hooks, news, gear and info

navigate whaler

volume 4 issue 2

An Inviting Proposition

MEET THE ALL-NEW 345 CONQUEST, A PERFECT MARRIAGE OF RUGGED LUXURY AND SERIOUS PERFORMANCE. Professional-grade design meets purposeful amenities in a boat as well equipped for offshore fishing runs as it is for social gatherings. Highlights include the reimagined helm companion area, where family and friends will want to join the captain in climate-controlled comfort. From the convertible portside seat to the full wet bar to the reversible aft seat, incredible functionality and comfort define the space. Cutting-edge technology at the dash affords precise control, while Whalerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unsinkable hull design means a smooth, dry and safe ride. And of course, a full array of fishing features make it a go-to for hardcore angling. But thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only the beginning. (Did we mention the inviting cabin?) Watch for appearances from the 345 Conquest at boat shows throughout 2014. In the meantime, be sure to visit www.bostonwhaler.com.

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[ never alone ] In 1983, the U.S. Coast Guard ceased responding to nonemergency calls from boaters on both coasts. In response, Sea Tow® created its countrywide on-water assistance fleet that same year to ensure boaters had a reliable resource for non-emergency situations. Today, Sea Tow offers national coverage on both coasts and major lakes and rivers across the U.S. The company’s nationwide fleet of experienced Captains will respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week should you ever need help while boating. The yearly membership options offer a range of services that include free boat towing, jump starts and fuel drops. All new Boston Whalers come with a standard 95-day Sea Tow Trial Membership. Members of the Boston Whaler Owners Club can also receive 14 months of membership for the price of 12 using the code BWF at www.seatow.com. With Sea Tow just a call away, you are never truly alone on the water.

Tows Like A Dream For towing capability you can depend on, the all-new GMC Yukon Denali is engineered to surpass all expectations. With the Yukon Denali’s 6.2L EcoTec3 V8, enjoy a whopping 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. And the Yukon Denali’s suspension with Magnetic Ride Control reads the road over 1,000 times per second, for a smooth and balanced ride. Sit in comfort as you transport your Boston Whaler to far-oﬀ locales: the Yukon Denali’s Quiet Cabin features Bose® noise reduction technology. Advanced Driver Alert Technologies include Forward Collision Alert and Front and Rear Park Assist to help make life behind the wheel a breeze—much like life at the helm of your Whaler. For information on the complete lineup of GMC vehicles, visit gmc.com.

Preproduction model shown. Actual production model may vary. Available Spring 2014.

BETTER TOgEthER A Boston Whaler and the open water combine to create a unique sensation, one that

benefits fully from both parts. Like the complex interplay of senses experienced while cruising offshore, Nobilo’s Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc creates something new and special when paired with seared snapper and saffron mussel broth. The rich aroma of spices and seafood plays against the crisp acidity of the Sauvignon Blanc, forming a complex and balanced sensory experience. Much like picturesque scenery can elevate your time onboard your Whaler, so can the right pairing enhance Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc. Included here are directions for the delicious, savory mussel broth. For the complete snapper recipe or to learn more about Nobilo wine and food pairings, visit www.nobilowines.com

SAFFRON MUSSEL BROTH Ingredients 2 shallots, sliced 2 cloves garlic, sliced 1 Tbsp. olive oil 12 mussels 20 threads saﬀron ½ cup white wine ½ cup heavy cream ½ cup milk

Directions 1. In a deep 10-inch skillet, gently fry the shallots and garlic in olive oil, then add mussels, saﬀron and white wine. 2. Turn up heat to high and cover with a lid. 3. Once the mussels open, carefully remove them from the skillet using tongs. 4. When cool, remove mussel meat, trim oﬀ beards and remove the mussel tongues. 5. Over medium-low heat, reduce liquid in skillet to about ½ cup, then add cream and milk. Cook until reduced by half, then strain. 6. When ready to serve, reheat gently and then foam up with an immersion (stick) blender.

The Power of Touch Commanding a boat from the helm is about touch just as much as vision. From the subtle vibration of the engine to the position of the throttle, a captain in control is one who feels just as much as he or she sees. The new gS Series Glass Bridge from Raymarine® places the boat’s control at your fingertips like never before. The glass display uses multi-touch technology to offer a more immersive and simpler helm experience. Swipe between an array of navigation applications including an interactive chart, radar and fishfinder. The integrated switch panel also allows you to control all of your Whaler’s digital systems from one display. The gS Series does more than just simplify the helm; it offers a more powerful command experience. The gS Series is available on select Whaler models. To learn more, visit www.raymarine.com.

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NEED A BOAT LOAN? You can depend on Essex Credit!

Refinance with APRs* as low as With over 30 years in marine lending, Essex Credit understands your boating lifestyle— you would rather be on the water enjoying time with your family and friends than just about anything else. Essex Credit can help! Refinance your Boston Whaler with an APR as low as 3.99%** and start planning your next trip. Essex Credit offers one-stop shopping; handling every detail of the loan transaction—from paying off your current lender to handling the

$50,000 + $25,000 – $49,999

3.99%** 4.59%**

Rates accurate as of December 6, 2013. See website for current rates and terms, including for loan amounts below $25,000.

titling and registration. We offer competitive rates and a hassle-free loan process to help make lowering your monthly payments easy. Don’t wait - apply online today!

www.essexcredit.com/bw

1-866-377-3948

RAIN OR SHINE

Massachusetts boater Kevin Garvey shares his Whaler tale

“Growing up in Charlestown, I had always been fascinated by the nearby naval shipyard. Time went by and after retiring from a career in public service, my interest in exploring Boston Harbor renewed. My partner Eva and I bought a boat, a 17-foot Montauk, based on my experiences operating Boston Whalers during my career. Stable, maneuverable and family friendly, it’s the perfect boat for us. Our trips always went well, but on a recent outing with my young daughters and two of their friends, the weather took a turn.

After an enjoyable day on the beach, we proceeded down the river into Gloucester Harbor; that’s when I noticed the skies. A band of haze was forming low on the horizon. In almost no time, visibility had dropped to a few boat lengths; beyond that, it was a wall of white. e temperature had fallen and the air was wet and dense. But I had a plan: Reduce speed… Turn on navigation lights… Re-check the girls’ PFDs… Change course… Since the tide was high, I chose to take a route tight to shore. I navigated via GPS and confirmed positions with my chart. The girls kept watch as we approached each waypoint. Rocks, islands and buoys popped out of the mist. When our cotton towels proved too soggy, we passed around survival blankets to keep warm, which the girls thought was cool; they took turns reading aloud the survival tips printed on them. Slow and steady, we found our marks. I’m pleased to say the Montauk delivered us safely back to the dock that day. By no means am I an expert boat operator, but I never leave shore without a plan. I have confidence in my ability to navigate in poor conditions; moreover, I have confidence in my boat.”

Refinance Your Boston Whaler During The Off-Season Essex Credit is committed to transforming your boating daydreams into unforgettable memories by making available hassle-free refinancing. Essex Credit makes the next step toward refinancing your Boston Whaler simple, thanks to competitive fixed rates, a convenient online loan application process and offering boat loans in all 50 states. Right now, during the off-season, is the perfect time to start. Essex Credit is offering some of the lowest rates that may help lower your monthly payments. Even if winter has forced your Whaler into hibernation, soon you’ll be back out there, chasing big fish or big-time relaxation. Let Essex Credit help you reach that carefree state with no-hassle refinancing. For more information, visit www.essexcredit.com/bw or call 866-377-3948. Subject to consumer loans program requirement and credit approval. Certain fees, closing costs and restrictions may apply.

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Kingfisher

™

Sperry Top-Sider’ Top-Sider’s Top-Sider’ op s patented ASV T Technology ech echnology decreases decr eases the effects efffects fects of hull pounding and wave crashing. This significantly rreduces educes muscle fatigue and soreness soreness and leads to a better water. day on the water. sperrytopsider sperrytopsider.com psiderr.com

ASV

OFF TO THE RIGHT START

[ Decisions, Decisions ] Choosing the right boat insurance policy can seem as diﬃcult as choosing the right boat, if you get lost in a sea of options on the way to one that perfectly ﬁts your lifestyle. However, the decision to go with Boston Whaler came naturally. Now, let Boater’s Choice help you pick the right marine insurance to cover it. The representatives at Boater’s Choice will walk you through the process and “shop” with you for the best cost and coverage options from A-rated carriers. Choosing doesn’t have to be hard. Let the professionals at Boater’s Choice make it easy. Visit www.boaterschoiceinsurance.com for a competitive quote or call (800) 768-2121 to speak with a specialist.

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An idle battery in cold winter storage can lose start-up efficiency and charge time. When summer returns, ensure your Boston Whaler gets off on the right foot with DieHard® AGM Platinum Marine & RV batteries, which are specifically engineered to maintain recharge and start-up performance during the off-season. Inside the rugged military-grade protective shell, plates made of 99.99 percent virgin lead hold up to 40 percent more reserve capacity than spiral AGM batteries, so your battery won’t lose recharge or start-up efficiency. at means when warm weather defrosts winter’s chill, your Boston Whaler, powered by a DieHard AGM Platinum Marine & RV battery, will be ready to hit the water for another summer of action-packed fun. Check out DieHard’s short zombie film (really) and much more at www.diehard.com.

Towing your Boston Whaler is easy with the great features and capabilities oﬀered by GMC’s lineup of cutting-edge vehicles. Sights like Georges Island (le) and the Nobska Lighthouse (top right) come into view, and incredible seafood completes the picture of road-trip perfection.

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WHALER

towing

Right at Home

Unite your Boston Whaler with the legendary city that gave the boat its name in this trailering itinerary from GMC Story by Kit Fox | Photos by Mike Calabro

History seeps between the weathered cobblestones still lining alleyways in downtown Boston. You can feel the legend of early America in the old Victorian homes of Dorchester, or the skinny meandering streets in North End—a place Paul Revere once called home, where today the Freedom Trail leads untold numbers of visitors through a fascinating narrative. Boston is a legendary city, which is why its expansive and picturesque harbors are best discovered in the boat that shares its namesake! Behind a GMC, you can trailer your Boston Whaler back to its legendary roots with this road trip itinerary that takes you through Boston and the surrounding area.

Before you begin: follow these trailering tips from the experts at gmC to ensure your road trip goes smoothly. ❚ Before you hit the road, double check that the brake lights and turn signals on the trailer function properly. ❚ Ensure your trailering vehicle has the adequate tow capacity to haul your Boston Whaler. For more information on your specific vehicle’s tow capacity, please refer to your owner’s manual. ❚ On the road, remember that your vehicle accelerates and brakes slower than usual while hitched to a trailer. Make sure to leave plenty of space for traffic when changing lanes. Select GMC vehicles offer Side Blind Zone Alert* to give warning if cars are in your blind spots. As always, observe caution. ❚ When launching the boat, have the operator ready at the helm to start the engine as soon as the prop is low enough in the water. is ensures no delays or backups occur for the people waiting behind you.

“

Boston Harbor Islands: Just off the coast of historic Boston Harbor, a chain of small islands dot the protected waterway, offering natural enclaves with stunning views of the city skyline. A free public boat ramp in the Dorchester neighborhood offers an ideal central location to explore. Pear-shaped Spectacle Island—a 15-minute cruise from downtown— holds hiking trails and sandy beaches. Farther east, the Civil War–era Fort Warren staunchly protects Georges Island. From the perch of your Boston Whaler, you can see the sweeping granite archways that once defended the city in the 19th century. Falmouth: An hour trailering trek south of Boston, Falmouth offers visitors a taste of Cape Cod, where small coastal towns proffer a more relaxed pace with good food and good company. Launch your Whaler at the Falmouth Harbor Landing nestled between coastal cottages, boutique shops and world-class seafood restaurants. Once you cruise past the local charms, the open waters of the Vineyard Sound provide excellent fishing and options to navigate to Martha’s Vineyard. Chatham: Just an hour east, on the edge of the Cape, Chatham welcomes visitors with miles of sandy beaches, a historic lighthouse and traditional hospitality—not to mention some of the country’s best seafood. A public boat ramp provides access to Ryders Cove, one of Chatham’s many protected inlets. Head south to enjoy views of the town’s lighthouse, originally built in 1808.

”

An hour trailering trek south of Boston, Falmouth oﬀers visitors a taste of Cape Cod, with its relaxed pace, good food and good company.

*Before making a lane change, always check the Side Blind Zone Alert display, check the side and inside rearview mirrors, look over your shoulder for vehicles and hazards and start your turn signal.

Quality JL Audio® components are available on nearly every new Boston Whaler, like the 270 Dauntless shown here. Below, three stages of JL Audio upgrades (le to right): Stage 1’s MX650 coaxial speakers; the M770 speakers added to either side of the center console in Stage 2; and the M650 speakers tucked neatly beneath the rod holders in Stage 3.

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WHALER

quality

Sounds Like a Winner

Boston Whaler and JL Audio make an ear-pleasing pairing. Here, tips for upgrading audio systems on pre-2013 models. Story by Katie Oxenhorn | Photos courtesy of JL Audio and Boston Whaler

Your Boston Whaler is meant to be enjoyed to its full potential: maximum comfort, maximum safety and maximum usability. It’s about time for “maximum audio performance” to join this list. Just like your boat, JL Audio products are American-made and built to weather any storm—not to mention they are the best performing marine speakers on the market. at’s why nearly every Boston Whaler from model year 2013 forward is available with a stellar JL Audio sound system, either standard or as a factory-installed option. But what if you purchased your Whaler before 2013? Not to worry! You don’t have to put it through invasive “reconstructive surgery” just to add more musical enjoyment to your boating experience. To prove it, the experts at JL Audio borrowed a 2012 Boston Whaler 230 Dauntless from our friend Matt Jackson at Mercury Marine. is gorgeous boat had everything a boater like Matt could ever ask for—except for a premium audio system. e upgrade took place in three stages, from a simple DIY upgrade to an elaborate audio enhancement. e results won’t just be a sonic improvement, but also a step up in quality and reliability: Every JL Audio marine product undergoes 2,000 hours of salt, fog and UV testing exposure (four times the industry standard of 500 hours). Many boaters will be content with the ﬁrst stage, and other boaters will want to push their boat’s system all the way to Stage 3. Stage 1: Noninvasive Install e easiest way to enhance your Whaler’s audio system is to replace your existing 6.5-inch speakers with JL Audio MX650 6.5-inch coaxial speakers. No modiﬁcations were made to the boat in this step, but what an improvement! e boat’s existing head unit can power the JL Audio MX650s. is installation could easily be your next

Sunday afternoon project, or it could easily and affordably be done by a professional. Stage 2: Minimally Invasive Install is stage pushes the boat’s audio system to the next level, with larger speakers and more power. Our pros began by replacing Matt’s existing speakers with two pairs of JL Audio M770 7.7-inch speakers. ese highly efficient speakers are capable of playing loud and clear, even at powerboat speeds, and can produce an amazing amount of bass for their size. is stage required slightly enlarging the existing holes in Matt’s boat. An M400/4 marine amplifier was also added to the setup, feeding 100 watts of power to each speaker. You wouldn’t believe the level of depth and clarity this setup added to Matt’s system! Stage 3: Somewhat Invasive, but TOTALLY WORTH IT! e final stage involved adding a third pair of speakers in the front of the boat, between the rod holders. is step required the installer to remove the rod holders in order to cut a hole behind them. (After the holes are cut, the rod holders remain fully functional and in the same location.) Placing the JL Audio M650 coaxial speakers in the front of the boat allows the sound to reflect off of the back and sides of the boat’s interior, allowing for even dispersion and providing a clean, full sound to everyone onboard. Matt’s Reaction: The Real Payoff When the installation was all said and done, the true test of its success was Matt’s reaction. “I completely love this system!” Matt reports. “Just a few simple improvements made a world of difference. It sounds like there are 20 speakers when there are really only six! My family and I have been bragging about it to everyone.”

Visit www.jlaudio.com for more info and to ﬁnd an authorized JL Audio dealer near you.

the family

inspired multicapable and cuttingedge, the new dauntless lineup marks an exciting new chapter in the boston whaler legend

â&#x20AC;˘

Story by Amy Wideman Photos by Richard Steinberger

ink of your favorite novel.

boat show season, but it wasn’t until this fall that it made its official debut, flanked by several equally charismatic family members: the 170, 210 and 240 Dauntlesses (more on those shortly). Incredibly spacious, ruggedly good-looking, the 270 is defined by its tremendous versatility, its innovative seating and its vast storage spaces. ere truly is room for everyone and their gear, whether that gear consists of dive tanks and snorkels, fishing rods and live bait, wakeboards and tow ropes, or all of the above. “e Dauntless family was designed with active families in mind,” says Jeff Vaughn, Boston Whaler’s vice president of sales, marketing and customer service. “We know that our customers are passionate about a wide range of activities, and they expect a boat to deliver not just functionality, but also enjoyment.” To that end, the 210 Dauntless and 240 Dauntless are sizable newcomers in their own right, with space and amenities for a variety of e evolution of Boston Whaler’s lineup is much like a good story itpassions. e popular All-Activity Tower option elevates watersports acself—we often hear references to boating’s “unsinkable legend,” a phrase tion with a ski pylon and racks. A swim platform with outward-angled with both literary and literal heft. So when a new chapter in this legtelescoping ladder—found on every new Dauntless model—makes it end starts, a seasoned Boston Whaler owner knows instinctively that easy for swimmers to enter and exit, and enforces keeping a safe distance from the prop while in the water. e temptation to jump in the next plot point should be a strong one. is year, that new chapter the ocean and splash around on a hot day can be all but irresistible; brings us not one, but a whole cast of characters—introducing the new Dauntless family. And although it might not be the stuff of Pulitzers, when you travel by Dauntless, there’s no need to fight it. it’s unquestionably a memorable event. One that may well inspire your Rounding out this multicapable family, the 170 and 180 Dauntless own tales of adventure. each pack a ton of utility into a nimble, stylish package. From serious At the head of this Dauntless family is the bold new 270 Dauntless. angling to watersports, cruising and beyond, these boats make an impression. Easy to trailer, they also open up new possibilities for Audiences got their first peek at the flagship model during last winter’s exploring inland waterways and farflung fishing holes. Whatever your What does your story hold? For fishing, cruising, wakeboarding or simply giving the dog a blissful run on the beach, the Dauntless family is activity of choice, the 20 inches of intehere to inspire yours. From the nimble 170 Dauntless to the bold 270 Dauntless, each is well equipped for your action-packed next chapter. rior freeboard help every passenger feel secure and at ease. Like the rest of their Dauntless brethren, the 170 and 180 Dauntless feature robust aft seating that transforms in seconds into a full-width casting platform. Versatility? No doubt. As Vaughn puts it, “e new Dauntless family is the embodiment of a clever transformation. It goes from one activity to the next almost instantly. e Dauntless lineup has long been appreciated for its ability to multitask. It’s now better equipped than ever to do it all—to inspire your own family’s next chapter.” And what Boston Whaler story is complete without a fishing tale or two? e Dauntless design has always rewarded anglers with ample room to cast lines and maneuver freely, and the new family maximizes onboard space more effectively than ever. e 170, 180, 210 and 240 Dauntless each offer a reversible

A long, compelling story with colorful characters and vivid details, with developments that build on each other so naturally that the pages practically ﬂip themselves. When a new chapter begins, it feels signiﬁcant, and welcome. Something important is about to happen, and you can’t wait to discover the next turn.

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ese are boats that deliver not only capability, but also conﬁdence. Because “unsinkable” is more than a philosophy, it’s a reality.

(Clockwise from bottom left): Easy trailerability is just one of the 240 Dauntless’s many attributes; flip-up bow backrests offer passengers on the 240 a prime seat; every Dauntless provides loads of fishing capability; and reliable Mercury power ensures a smooth, quiet ride.

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pilot seat option with a large livewell, making them a prime resource for hauling in trophy catches. On the 270 Dauntless, fishability is elevated thanks to a deluxe leaning post, decked out for big catches: in addition to the leaning post’s 30-gallon livewell, there’s a handy sink with sprayer, a YETI® cooler, rod holders and more.... Itching to fire up the fishfinder yet? But it’s not just about rod holders and livewells, though both are inexorable from the Dauntless lineage; it’s about excitement. Opportunity. ese are boats that deliver not only capability, but also confidence. Because “unsinkable” is more than a philosophy, it’s a reality. From Unibond hulls that provide a remarkably soft, dry ride, to Mercury® Verado engines that deliver strong, quiet and efficient power, the Dauntless family is designed top to bottom, bow to stern for unfailingly reliable performance. So you can launch any adventure you and your family dream of without worry or hassle. Of course, adventure doesn’t have to entail gills or fins or tow ropes. e Dauntless family is rich with features and amenities that encourage comfortable relaxation and enjoyment of the water, pure and simple. Consider the 270 Dauntless—its roomy bow area features an innovation in seating: two flip-up backrests that offer passengers a comfortable new way to face forward while underway. For sun lovers, there’s no better spot than the plush forward lounge seat, complete with fold-down armrests. Peer underneath and discover a cavernous, lockable storage compartment that holds buckets, rods, PFDs and then some. So, the Dauntless family offers a place to stow every bit of gear, seating to cradle every passenger in comfort, performance and handling to satisfy the most discerning captains, and versatility for just about any activity on the water. What will the rest of this chapter hold? Talk about a page-turner.

Ian knew as soon as he laid eyes on it that the 345 Conquest was his boating destiny. He and his crew often take advantage of the Whalerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many amenities for entertaining. (Opposite, top left) The heavily reinforced walls of Maineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fort Knox.

Commuting, Improved A Swiss boater finds the best route to work just happens to be by Whaler Story by A my W ide m a n | Photos by L or i s von S i ebe nt h a l

T the story of swiss boater tomas garcia came to us originally from a european boston whaler representative who met him at the bustling friedrichshafen boat show. when asked in casual conversation how his 220 outrage was treating him, tomas’s response was an emphatic, “that boat has changed my life!”

Which turned out to be no exaggeration. A resident of the French city of Sciez, Tomas had been working for a dealership located in the Naval de Corsier-Port shipyard, a reasonable 25-minute drive from his home. Then, in October of 2012, he was offered a prime new role: the chance to work for Port Vidoli S.A., an affiliate of Whaler’s Swiss distributor W.A.R. Bootbau, as director of its repair and maintenance shop. It was a much deserved promotion, but one that came with a significant drawback: the drive time was now at least 75 minutes each way. “And that’s if everything goes well!” Tomas says. “Because it involves crossing the French/Swiss border, it’s rather between 90 and 120 minutes each morning and evening.” As anyone who’s endured a long, congested drive to and from work well knows, the situation was less than ideal, to say the least. But Tomas had an idea. He lives surrounded by the vast Lake Geneva. Water is literally everywhere. Boats are woven into the very fabric of the place. What if the Boston Whalers around which he’d built his career could also provide the antidote to his toxic commute? “It didn’t take me a long time to decide I could take the 220 Outrage to work,” Tomas says. “Now, I cross the lake by boat, and it’s less than 30 minutes door to door. Even abiding by the speed limit along the coast, the crossing is very quick,” he says. “I do have the good fortune to lead a private port, where my mooring is just 20 meters from my office.”

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Tomas Garcia elevates commuting to something of an art form, traveling by 220 Outrage across Lake Geneva. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in good company, with landmarks like the Chateau de Chillon (bottom right) and an array of scenic Swiss architecture lining the shores.

(Left) The old castle of France’s Yvoire village charms locals and out-of-towners. (This page) From the helm of his Boston Whaler, Tomas has a clear view of the region’s many waterfront landmarks.

The unconventional commuting method has had other upsides, including a surprise boost to his salesmanship. He recently sold a 210 Montauk to a customer who swore, after a test run on Tomas’s Outrage, that he’d “never seen anyone more passionate about his boat.” As these things tend to be, the best passions are contagious. Tomas might be a bit effusive in describing his new ride, but who among the road-weary former traffic warriors wouldn’t be? “The 220 Outrage is perfect,” Tomas says. “It behaves well in all weather conditions, even the most difficult, and I feel perfectly safe. With the center console and its T-top with the weather curtains set, I’m protected from the wind and rain.” Given that the region sees plenty of both—one weather database describes precipitation that is “not only plentiful but reliable and frequent”—the optional added protection was a smart choice. But the area receives a nice share of sun, too, and benefits from temperatures that are mostly mild, and certainly within acceptable Whaler conditions. Summers on Geneva are spectacular. In addition to its considerable commuting perks, the Outrage affords Tomas the opportunity to explore and play host. “It’s very nice and handy for trips with family and friends,” he says. “Lake Geneva is the largest lake in the Alps, and above all a great playground and a place of wonderful freedom.” He cites numerous can’t-miss attractions that line the shore, including the Chateau de Chillon, a beautiful island castle dating back to the 12th century that draws tourists from around the world with its dramatic architecture. Other favorites include the medieval villages of

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“ ” Lake Geneva is the largest lake in the Alps, and above all a great playground and a place of wonderful freedom.

Yvoire and Nernier, places rich with history and charm that happen to be accessible by boat. There’s also Geneva, with its famous water fountain, the Jet d’Eau, where Tomas and friends travel by Outrage to take in the hour-long fireworks display each summer at the Fêtes de Genève. Beyond the many destinations around the lake, its rich nautical heritage is perhaps its best feature. From old sailing boats like the Barques du Leman, to classic runabouts impeccably preserved, to experimental hydrofoil sailing craft like Syz & Co catamaran and Hydroptere trimaran, the waterways have encouraged innovation and enjoyment for centuries. “You’ll see an impressive number of prototypes that are changing sailing day after day,” Tomas says, rattling off a list of famous craft seen from aboard his Whaler. “There are too many things to say about this magnificent lake! The best solution,” he adds with a grin, “would be to come visit and see for yourself.”

Happy Go Lucky

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a fisherman enjoys the best of the gulf on

a pair of boston whaler outrages Story by Jennifer Chesak | Photos by Mike Calabro

W whaler owners run the gamut, from hardcore fishermen to fellas who just like to have

a solid boat for cruising. Some seek serious game fish. Others chase thrills at the end of a tow rope, or smiles at the end of a perfectly grilled meal. They may come from different walks of life, but one thing remains constant. When asked why they chose a Boston Whaler, one word is always mentioned:

safety.

“Safety was very, very, very important to me,” says Wallace “Happy” Rogers, owner of both a 170 and a 370 Outrage. “And what I decided is really unique about the Boston Whaler is the way it’s built. ‘Boston Whaler’ is a household name,” he explains. “Everyone knows they are unsinkable. Everyone knows they are well made. When it comes time to sell it someday, I won’t have to explain to someone what it is. Everyone knows and trusts Whaler.” Happy, as he’s known to all, and his wife, Elizabeth, live in San Antonio, Texas, but they keep their boats in Port Aransas where they have a second home. Port Aransas is located on Mustang Island, a barrier island that protects Corpus Christi Bay. The island is 18 miles long, and nearly one third of it is protected as a state park, providing five miles of open beach. The place was named for the mesterios, wild horses the Spaniards brought to the island in the 1800s.

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Port Aransas is the only town on the island, but the southeastern end of Mustang stretches toward metropolitan Corpus Christi on the mainland. Happy and Elizabeth’s home is in a private subdivision where they have access to canals right out their back door. “When we exit the canals, you can be offshore in five minutes or in the flats in five minutes,” Happy says. “It’s a matter of turning right or left.” Happy is an avid outdoorsman who loves to fish both offshore and inshore. In the Gulf, he targets billfish, but the area also offers up trout, redfish, flounder, red snapper, tuna and more. Happy grew up fishing with his father. After becoming nostalgic for the days when his dad, who has now passed away, would take him out on his boat, Happy decided it was time to get his own. “I wanted to get something that I would really enjoy running myself,” he says. “This boat fits the bill. It’s not

Happy Rogers (above right) swears by the unsinkable performance of his 370 Outrage to deliver good times near and far oďŹ&#x20AC;shore around his Texas stomping grounds. Sail & Ski Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Troy Triplett (above left and opposite) was there for the maiden voyage.

Boston Whaler’s Wil Rogers (left, in blue) demonstrates highlights of the 370’s intuitive helm as Happy and a friend look on. Underway, Elizabeth Rogers (opposite), proves there’s no place to relax quite like the bow. Triple Mercury outboards (below) fuel the fun.

so big that you feel like you need a professional captain. I can have one when I want to, but I like running it.” Happy is no stranger to sitting in the captain’s chair—one of his biggest hobbies is flying. He owns a Pilatus PC-12, a single-engine turboprop. And with his son, he also owns a Cessna 206. “I really enjoy the process of learning about and operating machinery,” he says. It’s a trait Happy passed on to both his children, Wallace IV (26) and Emmy Ballantyne (29). Both are single-engine instrument-rated pilots. As for mom Elizabeth, she jokes, “I’d rather be in back with the beer and the gear.” Happy is a fifth-generation San Antonio, Texan. “I’ve lived here all my life,” he says, “and I’d never even consider moving anywhere else.” He is a real estate investor, but he also owns and operates a longstanding family business in San Antonio, The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum, known as the oldest continuously operating saloon in Texas. Happy’s maternal great grandfather, Albert Friedrich, opened the establishment in 1881 when he was only 17. The saloon features an incredible collection of old horns, antlers and rattlesnake rattlers. Turns out that Albert and his wife, Emile, used to accept them as currency for beer or whiskey. The collection morphed into a Hall of Horns display that kept the saloon afloat during the rough times of Prohibition. The Buckhorn has changed locations and expanded over the years, but the curios and even the original cherry-wood bar have always remained staples of the establishment. Now the Buckhorn features a Texas Ranger museum, as well, which opened in 2006. Happy and Elizabeth enjoy visiting the saloon, but they love to spend most of their time outdoors fishing and hunting. “I shot my first deer when I was six, while sitting on my father’s knee,” Happy says. “It’s

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a rite of passage in Texas.” Happy hunts all over the world, taking frequent African safaris. He recently went to Denmark to hunt pheasant and duck, and to Spain to hunt partridge. In Texas, Happy and Elizabeth own a ranch down near the Mexican border where they hunt whitetail deer, wild hogs, dove, quail and geese. The ranch is also home to the family’s beloved herd of Ankole-Watusi cattle, a longhorn breed native to Africa. “That’s the first thing we do when we get to the ranch is go find the cattle,” Happy says. “They are very social.” The Rogers family is pretty social, too, and they have a lot of friends from San Antonio who also own second homes in the Port Aransas area. That’s why they bought the 170 Outrage shortly after buying the 370. “We decided we wanted something that was quick to jump into and run around the corner to a friend’s house or run it over to the beach,” Happy says. He bought both boats from Troy Triplett at Sail & Ski Center in San Antonio. “I have fabulous customer support,” Happy adds. “They have been great, before, during and after the sale. Sail & Ski is the best in the business.” Boston Whaler’s very own Captain Wil Rogers flew in from headquarters in Florida to show Happy all of the ropes. “He explained every screw, every rivet,” Happy says. “He even gave me his cell number. It was just an incredible show of support from Whaler. As an owner, you know that you’re not alone out there.” Happy also attended last year’s Yacht Expo and had the chance to tour the Boston Whaler factory to see how his boat was constructed. He got a firsthand look at the legendary Unibond™ construction process that makes the Whaler name synonymous with safety. He was impressed with the 370’s ergonomic layout and opted for the upper station option for his offshore excursions. “I think it’s a style of boat that’s very traditional,” Happy says. “I was looking for a traditional, solid platform. This boat is functional. It’s not saying, ‘Look at me!’ but naturally, it gets looks.” And that brings us to one last thing Whaler owners always say: “It’s a good-looking boat,” Happy adds with a smile.

S to r y by L o r i Pa p pa j o h n P h o to s co u r tes y o f S i r R a nu l p h F i e n n e s / the Scott Polar Research Institute

p a s s a g e in 1981, a boston whaler outrage helped the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest living explorer chart an

incredible course

The voice on the other end of the phone was decidedly British —an impeccably proper accent relayed an urgent request. ey needed an 18-foot Boston Whaler Outrage rigged to exact speciﬁcations and shipped 2,000 miles, and they needed it immediately. Two men’s lives and the multi-million-dollar, three-year Transglobe Expedition depended on it. e money was ready to be transferred. Please advise.

I was convInced a whaler was our only chance It was July 1981 and the famous British explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes was attempting what no one had done before: circumnavigating the globe pole-to-pole. He had successfully crossed the Antarctic the year prior and was now tackling the notorious Northwest Passage. He had but a small window of time when this dangerous passage was free of ice. Sir Ranulph had begun his Arctic journey in an inﬂatable, but it had capsized in the rough, frigid waters—not a good start. en a few days later, a moment of synchronicity occurred. Sir Ranulph met an Alaskan who owned a Boston Whaler, a vessel obviously built for rough seas. “I was convinced a Whaler was our only chance…” Sir Ranulph writes in his book Beyond the Limits: e Lessons Learned from a Lifetime’s Adventures. M & P Mercury Sales in Vancouver, British Columbia, was the closest Boston (Previous) Bundled up against the cold, Charlie Burton steers Whaler dealer, some 2,000 miles away. the Whaler past giant icebergs. M & P laid up a ¾-inch layer of extra (Above) Spectacular scenery surrounds Sir Ranulph Fiennes ﬁberglass on the bow portion of the hull (left) and Burton. (Following) to withstand the Arctic ice. en the The Whaler frozen in the sea ice in Tanquary Fjord—the end Whaler was trucked 800 miles north of its journey. and airlifted the remaining 1,200 miles

over vast wilderness to the Canadian village of Inuvik, just north of the Arctic Circle. And that’s when the Outrage’s real journey began. Simply put, Sir Ranulph would likely not have made it through the passage in any other boat. What that vessel went through, what it withstood, how it kept him and his expedition partner Charles Burton safely alive is remarkable. Its journey is likely one of the most grueling and dangerous in the history of Boston Whaler. e two men planned to travel more than 3,000 miles through the Northwest Passage and beyond. e area was virtually uninhabited other than a few isolated radar stations and a few Inuit who, frankly, thought the explorers were mad. e men faced extreme weather conditions—roaring winds, blinding fog, unmarked shoals, vicious currents, violent seas and driving rain, sleet and snow. Add to that icebergs the size of houses rolling and pitching about them in the freezing surf like giant beach balls. And try finding an emergency place to land when the only beach between jagged cliffs and thundering surf has been claimed by a polar bear. But first, a little something about Sir Ranulph Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes, 3rd Baronet, who has been called the World’s Greatest Living Explorer.

Sir Ranulph has led over a dozen major expeditions, most of them grueling, including an expedition that made him the oldest Brit (at age 65) to summit Mount Everest. On his expeditions, several to the polar regions, he has struggled with extreme cold, pain, exertion and exhaustion. He has faced death so many times it’s become old hat. e former British soldier has written 20 books, received dozens of awards including the Order of the British Empire and has been named one of the top 100 living geniuses. His many feats include discovering the lost city of Ubar sought by T. E. Lawrence (of Arabia) and being one of the top contenders for the role of James Bond. Simply put, Sir Ranulph isn’t your regular kind of guy. So, with all that in mind, back to Inuvik and the Northwest Passage. is brutally dangerous leg of the around-the-globe odyssey rested on a Boston Whaler. And the Whaler was not about to disappoint. As they started out, an Arctic tugboat captain warned the two adventurers that their charts and magnetic compass would be useless— and navigating by the sun would be near impossible because of the relentless fog. e only possible rescue option was by Canadian military helicopter or local bush pilot—which could be days away in bad weather. He simply said: “Don’t go.” But on July 26, 1981, Sir Ranulph and Charles set out. ey had 35 days to travel some 3,500 miles. Fuel and rations cached a year before awaited them in remote settlements along the way. In short, their journey was epic. Time and time again their Whaler came through for them. In high winds with impossibly short and steep waves, endless icy breakers would crash over the bow, ﬁlling the boat with water. But always, the Whaler continued on. In storms so vicious the local Inuit warned the duo that to proceed would be death, the Whaler nosed on, always pulling them through. At times, the men were hemmed in by roaring waves on one side, jagged cliﬀs on the other and icebergs all around. “If the rolling waves capsized us, as I often thought they would, we would undoubtedly die in the water,” writes Sir Ranulph in his book Beyond the Limits. “Once the boat hung almost on its side as a green wall of water surged by in a rush of power,” he writes in another work, Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know.

In storms so vIcIous the local InuIt warned the duo that to proceed would be death, the whaler nosed on, always pullIng them through. 38

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Twice, during a storm, the heavy-laden Whaler was flung into the Arctic night by “great black walls of water” that struck them broadside. Sir Ranulph grabbed the handrail “as another unseen surge sent us keeling madly to starboard.” at’s when, relieved, as he observed in his book To the Ends of the Earth: “I began to feel nothing could turn us over.” Off Perry Island, the waves were so steep that the Whaler’s bow “plunged off one six-foot wall vertically down its front and into, not over, the next.” e freezing water smashed into the cockpit and cascaded over the men’s heads and into their survival suits. Writes Sir Ranulph: “Somehow the Whaler made it through.” At one point the duo ran the boat 36 hours straight because there was no landing point between the cliffs. At the village of Resolute, the Whaler was nearly crushed during an overnight ice surge. en, as the short Arctic summer began to close in, the duo had to detour 600 miles to avoid seas that had already frozen for the winter. ey were almost out of time. With the help of a bush pilot overhead, they threaded through a labyrinth of jostling ice floes that were freezing in all directions. By now much of the Whaler’s extra layer of fiberglass had worn through. is was the race of a lifetime. Miraculously, on August 31, Sir Ranulph and Charles reached their destination: the remote and uninhabited Tanquary Fjord. e boat sped through the perfectly calm waters as wolves watched from shore. Within days the seas behind them iced over and the Whaler was frozen into the bay. It remained there undisturbed for seven years. After wintering in the Arctic, the men dashed over the North Pole, completing their three-year, around-the-globe journey. And a special thanks goes to the Boston Whaler that got them through the Passage— and helped make history. Information for this article was taken from Sir Ranulph’s books To the Ends of the Earth, Beyond the Limits and Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know; from the Transglobe and Sir Ranulph Fiennes websites; and from Bill Pappajohn, founder of M & P Mercury Sales.

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the Maine attRaction

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A pair of Boston Whalers helps a busy doctor enjoy the Down East lifestyle to the fullest Story by Jennifer Chesak | Photos by Mike Calabro

Beyond the many sailboat masts dotting the marina, stark white church steeples rise out of the gold- and red-tinged treeline. Bucksport’s harborfront on the Penobscot River is storybook Maine. And for Dr. Ian Dickey, owner of a 345 Conquest, it was in books that he first learned about the beauty of the area. “What do you think of when you think of Maine?” he asks. The answer, for him, is author Stephen King. The master of horror lives just upriver in Bangor in a mansion—with a cast-iron spider-webbed gate—not far from Ian, who has been a fan since he was young. The anecdote goes that when Ian was still in the womb, Ian’s grandmother gave his mother a copy of The Shining for future story time. Later, Ian, a Vancouver native, had the chance to visit Maine while attending a wedding. He fell in love with the state. When his work as an orthopedic surgeon and orthopedic oncologist later brought him to the East Coast, he was thrilled. Not long after his move, Ian bought a Whaler 170 Montauk and then followed that up with a 285 Conquest and then a 345 Conquest. Now he uses the 170 as his taxi boat to travel down the Penobscot from Bangor to Bucksport. He ties it up next to the 345 and then hops on that to tour Penobscot Bay or the Atlantic. “They’re my girls,” he says, standing on the dock at the marina admiring the beauties in his side-by-side slips.

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For visitors and residents of Maine, the Penobscot River aďŹ&#x20AC;ords picturesque views and classic East Coast charm. For Dr. Ian Dickey, exploring by Whaler is the best way to soak it all in.

After shoving off from Bucksport, Ian captains the boat past Maine’s Fort Knox, located on the west bank in Prospect. “ere are two Fort Knoxes,” he explains. “ere’s the one in Kentucky that everyone thinks of, and then there’s ours. Bangor used to be a big deal.” e fort’s batteries were indeed built to protect the lumber mecca the town was back in the mid-1800s. e Conquest slips under the nearby Penobscot Narrows Bridge. e newly built cable-stayed span features two towering obelisks with one hosting an observatory, offering 360-degree views of the river, bay and surrounding towns. Once under the bridge, Ian pushes the throttle of the triple 300-hp Mercury® FourStroke Verados. He looks back at the wake and smiles. “at’s what I grew up with, a Merc,” he says of the small Whaler model he had as a kid and its 10-hp engine. “With these Verados, there’s no noise, no smell. You know you’ll get back.” Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Ian was no stranger to boating. His father was the head of the West Coast shipyard. He constructed boom boats for the logging industry and also built the Vancouver fireboats. “I’ve lived a very nautically inspired life,” Ian says. “I was very blessed that we spent so much time on the water.” e family boated on British Columbia’s Sakinaw Lake. “You could cut it in bits and it wouldn’t sink,” Ian says of the family’s small Whaler,

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paying homage to the iconic Boston Whaler image in which founder Richard Fisher is shown floating around in a cut-in-half 13-footer. “e Unibond construction became a big selling feature for me,” Ian adds. When he first moved to Maine, buying a Whaler from Port Harbor Marine was a no-brainer. “When I bought the Montauk, I thought it was the perfect boat,” he says. “It’s so portable and so seaworthy. With the reverse chine, it’s so dry, too. I’ve been out in 4-foot waves and remained dry. I could take it out on the ocean and then throw it on the trailer and take it over to a friend’s lake. And that’s how I got into Whaler Nation,” he adds with a laugh. Eventually, Ian wanted to upgrade to get a few extra creature comforts for all-day or overnight trips, but he wasn’t willing to give up his Montauk for use on Pushaw Lake, just north of Bangor. At first, he bought a 285 Conquest, which he loved, but then he caught sight of the big guns, the 345. “One of my favorite features is the autopilot,” he says. Ian shows off with a “look Ma, no hands!” gesture as he idles near the historic Fort Point Light. e lighthouse was built in 1836, and its nineteenth century Fresnel lens remains in use today. “You have everything that a Whaler sportfishing boat has to offer,” Ian continues, raving about the 345. “And you have the superiority of

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“I’ve lived a very nautically inspired life,” Ian says. “I was blessed to spend so much time on the water.” Marshall Point Lighthouse, located in Port Clyde, West Penobscot Bay

In the waning hours, the 345 Conquest shines as a beacon in the harbor. Locals drifting past oﬀer admiring glances before leaving Ian to enjoy another pleasant evening onboard.

“I could take the Conquest out in the height of summer or on a rainy day in the fall and return without a blemish.” the finish, design and durability.” Ian admits that the only fish his Whaler will probably see is a piece of sushi, but he likes having the reliability of a boat that a hardcore fisherman would trust. Add in the amenities like a ceramic cooktop in the galley and an electric grill on deck, and it doesn’t matter who caught the fish, it can still be prepared and eaten right onboard. Ian captains the boat into the harbor at Castine to a favorite lunch spot. e gleaming 345 is the center of attention. It even garners stares from crewmembers aboard a much bigger vessel, the T/S State of Maine, the training ship for the Maine Maritime Academy. Ian ties the boat up at Dennett’s Wharf, makes his way up to the patio and orders a heaping plate of steamers and a lobster roll. While Ian has no trouble embracing and devouring Maine culture (he even describes himself as a “Mainiac”), he retains quite a soft spot for the Pacific Northwest, where he still owns a house. “e Conquest is the ultimate Vancouver and Seattle boat,” he says. “I could take it out in the height of summer or on a rainy day in the fall and return without so much as a blemish.” Of course, Maine has plenty to offer for boaters and adventure seekers, as well. e town of Belfast is just to the south on Penobscot Bay at the mouth of the Passagassawakeag River. It features a beautiful seaport and charming Greek and Gothic Revival style architecture. South of Belfast is Camden, which is known as a high-class summering

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hotspot. But it fills up in February, too, when the annual U.S. National Toboggan Championships are held there. One of the most epic Maine destinations is Bar Harbor to the east, which is also the jumping-off point for Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island. Visitors to the park can enjoy cycling, hiking, birding and just listening to the waves crashing up against the rocky shoreline. Bar Harbor has a wealth of shops, restaurants and inns for refueling, resting up and passing time. As Ian enjoys his lunch, locals and other boaters stop by to say hello. Dr. Dickey and his new boat have been a fixture at Dennett’s Wharf all summer. e peninsula where the town of Castine is located was once a lucrative fur and lumber trading site. Its history can be seen in its antique architecture. And authors such as Harriet Beecher Stowe and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow have honored the town’s beauty in their literature. After every last steamer has been shucked and consumed, Ian makes his way back onboard and steers the Whaler towards Bucksport. e afternoon sun casts a warm glow on the Verso Paper Mill on the west side of the harbor, and the whitewashed town gleams in the distance. Storybook Maine, for sure. Fittingly, across the street from the marina sits an old pub, MacLeod’s Restaurant, owned and operated by George MacLeod, a former college roommate of none other than author Stephen King. Ian heads there often to grab a drink and chat with George about the author who inspired his love for Down East.

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