Whaler Volume 5 Issue 1

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whaler THE

B O S T O N

UNSINKABLE

W H A L E R

LEGEND

B O A T S

volume 5 issue 1

M A G A Z I N E

www.bostonwhaler.com

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WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE

EJECTOR SEAT, NO. TOUCH-SCREEN, YES. HOW IS THE ALL-NEW GMC SIERRA 1500 THE MOST ADVANCED TRUCK WE’VE EVER BUILT? ONE WAY: TOUCH-SCREEN TECHNOLOGY. MODERN FIGHTER JETS USE IT TO GIVE PILOTS INSTANT DATA AND DYNAMIC CONTROL. SIERRA USES IT, TOO, AS PART OF THE AVAILABLE 8-INCH DIAGONAL CUSTOMIZABLE LCD SCREEN TO GIVE DRIVERS INSTANT DATA AND DYNAMIC RESPONSE. AND IF IT’S CAPABLE ENOUGH FOR THE SPEED OF SOUND, IT’S CAPABLE ENOUGH FOR US. GMC SIERRA. IT’S MORE THAN JUST A TRUCK. IT’S INCREDIBLE THINKING IN THE FORM OF A TRUCK.

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

©2014 General Motors. All rights reserved. GMC ® Sierra ® WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE ®

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whaler ­president’s­letter Keeping the legend growing.

President,­Boston­Whaler

Huw Bower Vice­President­of­Sales,­ Marketing­&­Customer­Service

Jeff Vaughn Manager­of­Content­&­Event­Marketing

Traci Davis

V

Digital­Marketing­Manager

Jessica Mogus

WHALER

Magazine

President/Publisher

Douglas Leik Account­Executive

Valued­ Time

Annie Brown Editorial­Director

Randy Hess Deputy­Editor

Amy Wideman Associate­Editor

Matthew Grosinger

Time is a precious commodity. In the boating community, we know this well. In fact it may be the primary reason we all boat in the first place—to fill our spare hours in ways that are vibrant and memorable.

Associate­Editor

Elaine Short Editorial­Associate

Kit Fox Content­Marketing­Associate

Kaz Suzuki Creative­Director

Russell Duncan Digital­Creative­Director

Kraig Devenport

At Boston Whaler, we’re driven to create boats that minimize work and worry so that the only thing left to do is savor the hours aboard them, whether spent fishing, cruising, playing or otherwise choosing your own adventure.

With each new model, our design and engineering team finds ever-more brilliant ways of accomplishing this. On the 345 Conquest, for example, time spent in the cabin takes on an innovative new ease—turn to page 24 to explore our award-winning Dynamic Cabin System. We are committed to an aggressive new-product strategy that has included more than a dozen new models in the past three years. And the biggest is yet to come—check out page 4 for an exciting preview.

Time and again, we’ve seen our customers taking full advantage of life on the water, as the stories in this issue prove: ere’s the Wobby family, who use their Whaler as primary transportation along Florida’s Intracoastal (page 14). ere's fatherWe are committed to an and-son duo Bobby and Jeff Amos, who relish fishing from a aggressive new-product Montauk (page 28). Or, perhaps the most personal example, there strategy that has are the customers I was lucky enough to join on the recent Captiva Rendezvous (page 44), whose Whalers unlocked a weekend packed included more than a start to finish with joyful relaxation. dozen new models in the How will you spend your time this boating season? I look forpast three years. ward to seeing you out there, making the most of every moment.

Huw Bower President — Boston Whaler

Production­Director

Robyn Bendle Graphic­Designer

Brittany Huisenga Graphic­Designer

Arlene Waclawek Photographers

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

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.

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whalermagazine

Contents

volume 5 issue 1

features

14 More to Explore Dan Wobby and his family have found that the key to unlock Fort Lauderdale’s best living comes in the form of a Whaler.

22 Inside & Out e award-winning 345 Conquest elevates time on the water by proving there’s more than one way to use onboard space.

28 In the Clear e Tennessee River’s crystal-clear Pickwick Lake delivers crappie at dawn for a father and son team aboard a 210 Montauk.

36 Islands in the Stream A Boston Whaler Dauntless keeps a couple busy exploring the many waterways and islands along the Georgia coast.

44 Captiva Rendezvous

Inside & Out

22

An inaugural Gulf Coast event brings Florida Whaler owners together for a weekend of fun and relaxation.

d e pa rt m e n ts

04

12

Navigate A sneak peek at something BIG, a savory seasonal recipe, cutting-edge navigation gear and a new way to rent out your Whaler for income.

Towing Hitch up your Whaler for a road trip to some of the Pacific Northwest’s sweet spots with an itinerary and advice from the experts at GMC.

on the cover: A 270 Dauntless helps the Wobby family enjoy Fort Lauderdale to the fullest.

Photo by Mike Calabro

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hooks, news, gear and info

navigate whaler

volume 5 issue 1

The Next BIG Thing

H HOW DO YOU IMPROVE ON A LEGENDARY FLEET THAT’S ALREADY EARNED A REPUTATION AS UNSINKABLE?

Boston Whaler is about to answer that question with its biggest, boldest, most inspired model yet: the coming 420 Outrage. Expect to see features never before found on a center console boat. Get ready for incredibly precise handling and powerful performance. And prepare to be amazed.

First teased with an intricate scaled replica at February’s Miami Boat Show (shown here), the 420 Outrage will make its official debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October 2014. In the meantime, be sure to visit www.bostonwhaler.com for the latest news.

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ALL HANDS ON TECH

e evolution of boat navigation technology now culminates in the latest from Raymarine®, the Lighthouse II software. Behind the simple and elegant design, a slate of robust navigation tools ensures you can command your Whaler with confidence. Housed inside Raymarine’s cutting-edge line of touch displays, Lighthouse II comes packaged with 20 new features, including enhanced charts for U.S. waters, pinch-to-zoom capabilities, GPX waypoint transfer, and a smarter, sleeker design for superior usability. Learn more by visiting www.raymarine.com.

peaceofmind Founded in 1983, Sea Tow bolsters the peace of mind you get from your boat by serving as a helping hand, should you ever need it. On major water systems from coast to coast, Sea Tow’s fleet of experienced captains is always on call to assist you on the water. Every new Boston Whaler comes with a standard 95-day Sea Tow Trial Membership and yearly membership options offer a range of services including free boat towing, jump starts and fuel drops.

And here’s one more way to lighten your load: Members of the Boston Whaler Owner’s Club are eligible to receive 14 months for the price of 12. Just use the code BWF when you visit www.seatow.com.

Go Turbo

Looking to ramp up your tubing, waterskiing or wakeboarding?

Consider the TurboSwing® tow bar, a unique towing system for outboard boats that’s ideal for Whaler owners seeking extra watersports oomph. Easily mounted on your boat, the TurboSwing lets you hook your tow rope to an EZpulley™ that runs smoothly around the motor cowl, meaning the rider’s pull force and the engine’s propulsive thrust converge right at the boat’s point of rotation. e result is heightened stability and response, a tow rope that stays above the wake and lower planing speed. In other words, greater control for the driver—and more fun for the lucky boarder or tuber at the end of the rope. Check out www.turboswingus.com for videos and more information.

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TOTALLY HOOKED Recently, new 210 Montauk owner Dwayne Vernon sent Whaler a batch of photos that revealed his considerable fishing skills, displaying trophy specimens including flounder, kingfish, sailfish and mahi-mahi. A customer of MarineMax Carolinas, he uses the boat several times a week, season permitting.“I am extremely satisfied with my Montauk— this boat is the perfect vessel for this area,” Dwayne says. “e hull design has allowed not only for great entertaining, but also opened a variety of fishing options. As I mostly fish offshore, anywhere from 3 to 25 miles, the Montauk has proven to be a very stable, reliable and capable vessel.”

And he’s got the full fishbox to prove it.

Better Engine Protection and Better Mileage Marine industry experts agree, the best way to prevent ethanol-related problems—which include corrosion, fuel destabilization and phase separation—is to use an ethanol treatment such as ValvTect Ethanol Gasoline Treatment, which received a perfect “A” rating in independent corrosion tests. ValvTect Ethanol Gasoline Treatment contains the petroleum industry’s most effective premium gasoline detergent that can clean up power-robbing carbon deposits (gunk) from carburetors, fuel injectors and combustion chambers. Cleaning up carbon deposits causes the engine to operate more efficiently, generate more power and use less fuel—all good things for your boat’s engine and your wallet.

ValvTect Ethanol Gasoline Treatment is available in handy containers at West Marine and quality marine dealers.

It is also contained in ValvTect Marine Gasoline, available at Certified ValvTect Marinas nationwide. For more information contact ValvTect Petroleum Products at (800) 728-8258 or valvtect@valvtect.com or visit www.valvtect.com.

The Real Thing What’s the difference between dreaming about cruising on a Boston Whaler and actually cruising on a Boston Whaler? It’s something like the difference between pinning photos of chocolate soufflé on Pinterest versus sinking your teeth into a gooey, glorious bite. Both are pleasant, but only one delights all five senses. With superior refinancing options from Essex credit, you can go from dreaming to doing. Essex Credit makes refinancing your Whaler simple with competitive fixed rates and a convenient online loan application process.

For more information visit www.essexcredit.com/bw or call 866-377-3948.

Subject to consumer loan requirements and credit approval.

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TAKE THE EASY ROUTE with gS-Series powered by LightHouse II ™

Series Completely redesigned for clarity and simplicity, gS-Series with LightHouse II makes everything easier Smart Displays – a step beyond black box systems, each gS-Series is a smart touch screen MFD Navigate with new LightHouse vector and raster charts Network with any LightHouse powered MFD Pinch-to-zoom or take command with the RMK-9 remote and Raymarine mobile apps For more information, go to www.raymarine.com

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Flavors oF the season

After a leisurely Sunday cruise or an early fishing excursion on your Whaler, what better way to round out the day than a meal celebrating the flavors of the season? New Zealand– born Chef Matt Lambert developed this recipe for rack of lamb (a regional specialty) with lightly sautéed vegetables— a perfect post-boating feast. As an accompaniment, Chef Lambert suggests Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir, rich with berry aromas and the deep flavor of ripe cherries and plums. Its complex blend of oak and velvety tannins make it a great complement to this dish—and a natural choice for toasting to a day well spent.

lamb with Garden veGetables and herbed Jus Ingredients 2 New Zealand lamb racks 6 cups chicken stock 1 cup Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir 2 basil leaves 4 mint leaves

lemon juice 1 tbsp. butter 8 baby zucchini 8 toy box eggplants 8 yellow pattypan squash

Directions For the lamb: Trim and French the bones. Apply a liberal amount of salt. Wrap in plastic and let stand overnight. Grill or pan roast to an internal temperature of 115°F and let rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

For the jus: In a pan over medium heat, reduce the chicken stock by two-thirds. Add the basil and mint. Separately, reduce the Pinot Noir to 1/8 cup, then add to the reduced stock. Add butter and stir briskly until incorporated. Finish by adding lemon juice to taste.

For the vegetables: Cut all vegetables in half. In a pan coated with olive oil, cook vegetables cut-side down on medium heat until golden brown and al dente, approximately 5 minutes.

To serve: Slice lamb and stack, bone side up, on a rimmed platter.

Arrange vegetables around the lamb. Serve drizzled with warm jus.

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Chosen Wisely Choosing to enjoy life on the water is pretty much a no-brainer.

The same goes for choosing to enjoy the water on a Whaler. When it comes to choosing the right boat insurance, Boater’s Choice can help ensure that your next decision in the process follows suit. The representatives at Boater’s Choice will walk you through all of your insurance plan options, helping you “shop” for the right coverage from A-rated carriers. Let the professionals at Boater’s Choice help you complete your streak of great decisions.

Visit www.boaterschoiceinsurance.com for a competitive quote or call (800) 768-2121 to speak with a specialist.

THE POWER OF FUN Fun can be fueled by many different sources—adrenaline, adventure, family bonding or relaxation, to name a few.

On a Boston Whaler, fun is also fueled by one source that promises to supercharge your day: the DieHard® Platinum Marine battery, which provides reliable, durable power with 40 percent more reserve capacity than traditional spiral AGM batteries. Wrapped in a military-grade shell, 99.99 percent virgin lead plates produce enough juice to power all the accessories on your Whaler. Having fun on the water is a powerful feeling. e DieHard Platinum Marine battery makes sure that fun stays fully charged.

For more information visit www.diehard.com.

Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 40% Alc./Vol. Š2014 Imported by William Grant & Sons. New York, NY.

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[ Share the Thrill of your Whaler for Income ] Boston Whaler is pleased to announce a new partnership with Boatbound, the leading fully-insured peer-to-peer boat sharing marketplace. Now launching in Miami and San Francisco, with more markets soon to come, Boatbound’s simple online platform allows you to earn rental income by sharing your boat with its trusted community of pre-screened, qualified borrowers. Now, it’s possible for you to share the thrill of the Whaler experience with others and earn added income when you’re too busy to head out on the water.

List your boat for rent and maintain full control over who can access your Whaler, the duration of the rental and how much it costs. Every rental includes $1 million in renter liability insurance and up to $2 million in boat protection through one of the most trusted insurers in the world, as well as 24/7 on-the-water towing and support from BoatU.S.® For Boston Whaler Owners Club members, the first time you share your boat is commission-free. Visit www.boatbound.com/whaler to learn more.

IT ALL ADDS UP Ask any Boston Whaler engineer: the details matter.

Every inch, every stainless-steel toe rail, molded curve and sealed hatch…it all adds up to a boat more than the sum of its parts. The craftsmen at single malt Scotch whisky distiller Glenfiddich know this as well.

Consider Glenfiddich 21 Year Old, which undergoes an aging process that uses Gran Reserva rum casks from the Caribbean to

FULL-POWER TOWING Trailering your Whaler opens up new possibilities for places to explore, fish to catch and sights to see. Of course, trailering calls for a vehicle with the technology and capability to confidently pull the boat. e 2015 GMC® Yukon Denali rises to the occasion in many instances. With a standard 6.2L Ecotec3 V-8 engine, it’s the leader of its class in power with unexpected efficiency. Magnetic Ride Control and Bose® Active Noise Cancellation technology help create a comfortable and quiet ride, all the way to your next far-flung locale. For more information on the Yukon Denali and the complete GMC lineup, visit gmc.com.

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add a distinctive and complex flavor. Sweet vanilla and floral notes with hints of banana, followed by a soft taste of lime, ginger and spice and a long, complex finish, all combine to form an intensely enjoyable sipping experience. Truly, the magic is in the details.

Visit www.glenfiddich.com to learn more.

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The GMC® Yukon Denali makes an excellent tow vehicle for exploring the Pacific Northwest’s charms, including Gene Coulon Beach Park (shown here). Every 2015 Yukon model features Trailer Sway Control, which employs StabiliTrak® sensors to detect a swaying trailer and apply both the vehicle’s and the trailer’s brakes, keeping you and your trailer heading in the right direction, automatically.

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WHALER

towing

Blazing a New Trail Take your Boston Whaler on a tour of Pacific Northwest highlights with this trailering itinerary from GMC Story by Elaine Short | Photos by Mike Calabro

F

Few places in the world boast more awesome sites on both land and water than the Pacific Northwest. A playground for nature lovers, the region’s bounty of rivers, lakes, beaches, forests and mountain ranges creates a feeling of modern-day exploration. When the route is as rewarding as the destination, it only makes sense to hitch your Boston Whaler to your GMC and take in the treelined roadways, historic waterways and rugged terrain of a Pacific Northwest road trip.

Keep in Mind: Follow these trailering tips From the experts at gmC to ensure a smooth journey. (For more helpFul adviCe, head to gmc.com/trailering-towing.html or Consult your loCal Boston whaler dealer.) ❚ First things first: As you perform maintenance and safety checks before setting out, include the tow vehicle. Inspect fluids, battery and lights. Most importantly, check your tow vehicle’s brakes, which provide primary stopping power even if your trailer has its own braking system. ❚ Attaching your trailer properly to your tow vehicle is crucial. Be sure the trailer coupler fits properly on the trailer ball and the latch is in the down, or locked, position. ❚ When you arrive at the launch ramp, slow and steady wins the race. Give yourself as much room as possible when turning while reversing. Go slowly and try to make lots of small corrections rather than a few large ones.

As you head north of Portland, the state of Washington teases views of snow-capped Mount Rainier.

“ ”

Portland, Oregon: On the Willamette River, you can hook Chinook, steelhead and other big-river fish or explore downtown Portland through one of the city’s most unique vantage points—your own Boston Whaler. e nearly 200-mile-long Willamette moves at a relaxing pace. Coast along its wild edges to spot great blue heron or take in Oregon’s largest city via the Riverplace Marina, a 24-hour public dock within walking distance of downtown Portland.

Renton, Washington: As you head north of Portland, the state of Washington teases views of snow-capped Mount Rainier. Continue less than three hours to discover the small-town charm of Renton, Washington. Its key location drops you and your crew in the center of terrific freshwater fishing and watersports fun at the southeastern edge of the 22-mile-long Lake Washington. Stretching from North Seattle southward, Lake Washington is accessible to the public via Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park’s eight boat launch lanes.

Picnic shelters, golf and tennis, a swimming beach and a botanical walk provide additional entertainment.

San Juan Islands via AnaCortes: e boutique village of Anacortes sits 85 miles north on Fidalgo Island and proves an excellent lunch-and-launch spot for the San Juan Islands. Savor the flavors of one of the many specialized local bistros, station your trusty GMC in the Anacortes Ferry Terminal parking lot and hit the water for the destination of your choice. Stretch your legs on Orcas Island’s hiking trails in Moran State Park, tour San Juan’s Friday Harbor by foot or get close to the National Wildlife Refuge of Lopez Island by kayak.

Whichever island you choose and whichever way you choose to explore it, GMC and Boston Whaler will make the San Juan Islands’ peaceful views of lush forests abreast the Pacific’s blue waters yours to explore.

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Wandering Waterways Dan Wobby and his family have found that the key to unlock Fort Lauderdale’s best living comes in the form of a Whaler Story by A my W ide m a n | Photos by M i ke Ca l ab ro

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I

in some circles, fort lauderdale is nicknamed the “venice of america.” now, architecture, language and local cuisine may suggest otherwise, but in terms of pure accessibility by water, it’s a sound comparison. with its picturesque, winding length of the intracoastal waterway lined with palm trees, restaurants and assorted stopovers, boating through fort lauderdale is more than a means of transportation—it’s a way of life.

(Previous page) The Wobby family happily cruises through Fort Lauderdale on their 270 Dauntless. Seen from overhead, the comparisons to Venice make even more sense. (These pages and following) Dan, Carol, Thomas and Joann—and loyal pup Maddy—all feel right at home, whiling away a holiday weekend onboard.

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Dan Wobby knows this well. He and his wife, Carol, purchased a home in the area about two years ago and quickly found their happy place was on the water.

Dan’s job keeps him in Illinois for much of each month, but he makes the journey south more weekends than not. And thanks to a gleaming 270 Dauntless in their backyard, the trip from home to sea is practically automatic.

“I’ve loved Whalers since I began spending time on Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard years ago,” Dan explains. “ey’re great boats that handle the ocean well and have a timeless beauty. And I’ve always found the unsinkable aspect compelling.”

On Carol’s side of the family, one Whaler in particular has made its mark— a 1979 Sport that her father bought used and kept in pristine condition for decades, motoring the rivers near his home in Virginia. He passed the boat down to Carol and her twin sister, Diane, and together the sisters and their growing families put it to great use around Edgartown Harbor on Martha’s Vineyard. Kids and grandkids grew up fishing, skiing, tubing and going to the beach. e Sport served double duty as a water taxi and photo boat when members of the family were learning to sail. Today, younger sis Susan and her clan still use the boat on the lakes of North Carolina.

For Dan and Carol, though, the Fort Lauderdale house prompted the search for a vessel to call their own. Which manufacturer to go with wasn’t even a question. “We have loved that Whaler Sport for so many years, and we saw how many people had them up in Martha’s Vineyard,” Dan says. “It seemed like practically everyone had a Whaler that had been in their family for generations! at experience definitely influenced our decision.”

Deciding on a specific model came down to how they planned to use it.

“Whenever we’re in Fort Lauderdale, ours is a big house, so we always have a bunch of family and friends around,” he explains. “We needed a boat that was very versatile. We needed to have a place for my daughter and her friends to sunbathe, it needed to be fishing capable, we wanted to be able to do some ocean cruising, and we needed something that would be great for spending a lot of time on the Intracoastal.” ey soon narrowed their choices down to the Boston Whaler Vantage and Dauntless families, but as soon as they laid eyes on the 270 Dauntless at their local dealership, Lauderdale Marina, the decision was made. “e Dauntless suited us perfectly. We loved it right from the moment we saw it,” Dan says. “Clean lines, all the versatility

“ ”

They’re great boats that handle the ocean well and have a timeless beauty.

And I’ve always found the unsinkable aspect compelling.

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(Left) The 15th Street Fisheries restaurant is a popular hangout for Fort Lauderdale residents like the Wobbys, in part because it’s so accessible by water. Friendly locals span a variety of species, including the inimitable manatee.

“ ” The Dauntless suited us perfectly. We loved it right from the moment we saw it.

we were looking for…I mean, to have seating for four adults in the bow, all facing forward, is very unusual—and for our application on the Intracoastal, it’s really nice.” e Intracoastal Waterway extends some 3,000 miles, running between the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the U.S. Its main function is to provide transport ships with a safe, easily navigable route, but it also makes for terrific sightseeing. At the point where it intersects Fort Lauderdale, the waterway is flanked by glamorous hotels, high-end real estate and entertainment complexes that provide plenty of places to stop and indulge, while wildlife including manatees, osprey and all manner of fish offer a natural counterbalance to the glitz. Further afield, the system of canals, rivers and inlets weaves through tranquil marshes and flatlands, making it an ideal spot for relaxed cruising.

With son omas and daughter Joann off at college, the Wobbys are keen on anything that helps them all spend time together during school holidays. Winter and spring breaks are prime time to seize every boating option available.

Florida’s “Venice” is rife with opportunity, and the Wobbys’ house happens to be on a stretch of canal with what Dan calls “an unlimited number of waterfront restaurants with dockage”—to the point where they jump in the boat more often than the car to head to dinner.

When Dan is back in Illinois, Carol often takes the Dauntless out with friends, following the same “my other car is a boat” outlook that makes Fort Lauderdale such a treat. And then there’s the ocean—a playground unto itself. e Wobbys have ventured as far as Miami and figure there may be a Bahamas

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trip in their future. “e ocean side is a beautiful ride, with the beaches and the coastline stretching out beside us. We can be in South Beach in a couple hours,” Dan says.

When they opt to stay closer to home, Fort Lauderdale Beach offers free mooring balls where the Wobbys can tie up for the day and snorkel or take their kayak out on short trips from the Dauntless and back. “ere’s something about that blue ocean…” Dan says wistfully.

He and omas also love to fish for tuna or mahi-mahi, with friends or just father and son. More often than fishing, though, it’s the cocktail cruises that comprise a majority of the Wobbys’ outings. eir faithful dog, Maddy, is more than happy to accompany. “She’s good with the boat—wherever we are, she wants to be,” Dan says.

Frequenting area eateries like Flip Flops and 15th Street Fisheries, they meet plenty of fellow Whaler owners and have run into neighbors who, like the Wobbys, prefer boating as a means of transportation. Gondoliers they are not, but the smiles on their passengers’ faces are as wide as any tourist’s in Italy.

As far as his dealership, Lauderdale Marina, is concerned, Dan gives a special nod to service managers Kevin and Jason, whom he credits with going out of their way to ensure he and Carol are happy with their new boat. “ey’ve actually sent people over to our house to check on it!” Dan says. “It’s been an incredibly positive experience the whole way.” e Wobbys look forward to a summer packed with even more hours on the Dauntless, cruising to new restaurants and scenic spots on the Intracoastal, filling the livewell from time to time, and enjoying the rhythm of a city whose veins course with boating. Maddy may learn a new trick or two, and Joann and omas may well pick up the art of captaining. ey haven’t taken to the helm yet, but Dan’s pretty sure it’s only a matter of time. “Boating’s a huge part of our lives. I think they’ll feel the Whaler influence just like I have.”

• Original Boston Whaler canvas patterns dating back to 1997.

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Whaler Ad v2.indd 1

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INSIDE OUT the award-winning 345 conquest elevates time on the water by proving there’s more than one way to use onboard space Story by Amy Wideman | Photos courtesy of Boston Whaler

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Your boat takes you to places both far and wide and near and dear. It’s a vessel in more ways than one, containing that rare, powerful combination of possibility and certainty. It’ll take you offshore to where the wahoo are biting as confidently as it will transport your family to a trove of shared memories. We climb aboard and our perspective shifts, so that facing outward—at nature, at the sun and the water and the sky—and facing inward—toward how boating makes us feel— occur simultaneously.

It’s a bit of a trip, in the best way possible. And it’s a roundabout way of saying, when what’s outside and what’s inside are in harmony, everything just flows a whole lot better.

Boston Whaler designed the all-new 345 Conquest with this sense of harmony in mind, knowing that Whaler owners expect huge capability and major versatility from their boats. The zones of the Conquest that are most open to the outdoors—cockpit, deck, swim platform—serve an array of functions, while the more enclosed areas—helm, port lounge, cabin—boast equal flexibility.

The prime example is a feature that’s already earning raves from industry experts: the Dynamic Cabin System, a recipient of the 2014 NMMA Innovation Award. From a pure enjoyment standpoint, the cabin is an inviting place to get away from the sun, to relax in airconditioned comfort and to connect with a group of friends or a good book. A full galley, refined head and sophisticated entertainment area provide all the amenities you could want during a long day at sea, an overnight trip, or a raft-up that stretches into the wee hours.

A large settee along one side of the cabin converts to form guest sleeping quarters. (And parents of little ones will no doubt appreciate the nap-zone potential.) Abundant, dedicated storage—like optional rod racks above the settee and a cedar-lined locker—keep everything tidily out of sight.

The part of the cabin with the highest “wow” factor, however, is hands-down the V-berth. Here, a large forward dining table offers seating for your whole crew to enjoy a meal or a spirited game of cards, with elbowroom to spare. And when the time comes to call it a night, the dining area converts electronically to form a plush queen-sized bed that’s easily accessible by steps on both sides and available with stylish blue LED lighting. at’s right, electronically. With the simple push of a button. No more wrestling with cushions or telescoping tables. e 345 Conquest

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quite literally does the work for you. It’s not only beautiful on the inside, it’s smart on the inside.

While introducing the feature at February’s Miami Boat Show, Whaler Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Customer Service Jeff Vaughn took to the mic to expand on the subject. “e conversion from table to bed is effortless, and it instantly transforms the whole space,” he said. “It’s an advancement we’re very proud of. e Dynamic Cabin System demonstrates perfectly our commitment to innovation, in the form of purposeful, cutting-edge design that comfortably and fluidly accommodates a variety of uses.”

Topside, there’s lots to love as well. Consider the reimagined helm companion area. Family members and friends will want to join the captain in climate-controlled comfort inside the integrated open windshield/hard-top enclosure—in other words, the best of both indoor and outdoor time. e helm companion space is designed to foster better conversations while lending a clear view of the horizon, with a portside seat that converts via an optional filler cushion into a full lounge. Whether your copilot is a son or daughter home from college or a lifelong fishing buddy, the handy starboard cockpit wet bar—complete with refrigerator/freezer, sink, storage and cutting board—means they don’t have to duck into the cabin just to grab a snack or wash up after a catch.

For the captain’s benefit, the console features an intuitive layout with an easy-to-read display. Ergonomics are well accounted for, with bolsters that flip up or down and an integrated footrest. As for that indefinable thrill factor? Consider it defined: Offshore or close to home, the 345 Conquest performs like a dream. Triple Mercury® Verado FourStroke engines with the state-of-the-art SmartCraft™ VesselView display delivers a smooth, quiet ride and incredible efficiency. Available Raymarine® packages—including the advanced gS Series—and available high-definition digital radar provide industry-leading navigation aid.

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Scan this Tag with your smartphone to see how the Dynamic Cabin System works.

(Left) The helm area on the 345 Conquest features state-of-the-art navigation equipment and convertible seats for ultimate comfort and conďŹ dence. (Below) For getting out of the heat, relaxing with a movie or book, or tucking in for the night, the award-winning Dynamic Cabin System gives you options.

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“

RELIABLE PERFORMANCE, TREMENDOUS

FISHING CAPABILITY, ERGONOMIC COMFORT,

AND THE RIGHT COMPLEMENT OF FEATURES, WITHOUT HASSLES OR HEADACHES.

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As often as not, the main action takes place in the cockpit.

Whaler’s design team ensured that the 345 Conquest was well prepared to accommodate every itinerary, from serious fishing trips to summer cookouts to impromptu swims. The port lounge area’s reversible portside seat switches easily to face aft, with a footrest below the seat that pulls out to let passengers rest their soles. Whenever there’s a fish being reeled in or a cannonball being perfected, observers will find it’s an ideal cheering section.

The cockpit also features a convenient work surface that slides out smoothly, lifts to reveal a handy electric grill, and tucks away securely when your prep work is done or the burgers have all been served. Large drawers provide additional storage underneath, making it a cinch to stay organized.

“The new 345 Conquest is tailor-made for experienced boaters who know exactly what they want in a boat: reliable performance, tremendous fishing capability, ergonomic comfort, and the right complement of features, without hassles or headaches,” Vaughn said.

“While the technology of this boat is cutting-edge, it has the intuitiveness that is a hallmark of the Conquest family, taken to a whole new level.”

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The Tennessee River’s crystal-clear Pickwick Lake delivers crappie at dawn for a father and son team aboard a 210 Montauk

in

the Story by Jennifer Chesak | Photos by Robert Glover

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on a cool spring morning

before the sun has even shown its face, jeff amos and his father, bobby, head out on jeff’s new 210 montauk.

Steam rises from the surface of Pickwick Lake in Alabama, creating an eerie scene as the pre-dawn light begins to set the inky surface aglow. Like a ghost ship, the Montauk drifts in and out of the fog bank looking at times as if it’s only half there.

(Above and right) Jeff Amos and his father, Bobby, savor the hours aboard their Montauk. Pickwick Lake and its tributaries offer an abundance of fish and have a way of deepening the father-son bond with each catch.

The rising vapor is an indication that the water temperature is warmer than the air. And the warmer water temperature is an indication that the crappie are feeding aggressively in preparation for spawning. Jeff and his father aim to take advantage of this sweet spot in the crappie season over the next two weeks. In fact, Jeff has even taken time off from work so that he can camp with his father on the banks of Bear Creek, a tributary of Pickwick northwest of the Muscle Shoals-Florence area, and fish every glorious morning in his brand-new Boston Whaler.

Jeff bought the Whaler from MarineMax Chattanooga after doing plenty of research about what would be the best fishing boat to get into. “What I had in mind was a boat I could use to fish in both freshwater and saltwater,” he says. “I kind of knew what I wanted.

Performance and safety were the main things. I saw the Boston Whaler at the dealership and really liked it.”

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Anywhere I go And for whAtever I wAnt to cAtch, I should be Able to use thIs boAt.

“

Jeff had his mind set on a center console layout for easy maneuvering while fishing onboard and had been specifically eyeing the Montauk, which he says has “top-of-the-line” customer reviews. Once he took a look at a few key options, like adding rod holders in the bow, he was sold. “The guys at MarineMax in Chattanooga were so professional,” he adds. “They understood exactly what I was looking for.” is morning, Jeff and Bobby set to work targeting a slough. Here they have a good chance of finding hungry crappie en route to shallower waters and shoreline cover. Crappie aren’t picky when it comes to bait; worms, minnows and artificials will do just fine. e fish are, however, a bit finicky when it comes to color. So the lure of choice— depending on water clarity and amount of sunlight—might make all the difference between simply fishing and actually catching. Darker lures are best in clear water, but brighter presentations work well in murkier depths. On cloudy days, rumor has it they prefer darker lures, and on brighter days, they opt for color. Obviously, the most important rule is to switch it up if the fish seem bored.

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”

“is time of year, I go for chartreuse and whites,” says Jeff, “but lately they’ve been hitting on blues.” Jeff and Bobby swear by Go-Getter lures. In the early spring, they troll the flats at about 10 to 15 feet down. “We’re actually getting ’em at about 6 feet now,” he says. e guys fish Pickwick all year for crappie, but they switch to trolling with crankbaits in the summer. “I like the rod holders off the back,” Jeff says. “ey work really well for trolling.” e Whaler’s versatility was a huge selling point for Jeff, who wanted something that can get in the shallows on Pickwick but also work well for plying the coast for redfish and trout. “Anywhere I go and for whatever I want to catch, I should be able to use this boat,” he says.

While he hasn’t had a chance to test it out on the sea yet, Jeff says that massive Pickwick holds its own when it comes to rough waters, and the Montauk has proven its mettle so far. “When it gets real windy out here, it gets rough,” he says. “But I feel really safe. e boat is sturdy.” e 200-hp Mercury® Verado also does a stellar job of getting the guys from location to location on the big lake. “It’s very quiet

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(Above) Steam rising off the lake bodes well for the early-morning fisherman in search of crappie. (Left) Jeff shows off a sampling from the day’s bounty.

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and it gets up on plane easily,” Jeff says. Aside from the Montauk’s merits in durability and performance, Jeff says he doesn’t mind the fact that it earns him lots of compliments, too. e sun finally peeks its head above the high banks, casting a sheen on the blossoming shoreline. Among the evergreens are the showy violet shades of the redbud trees and the white sprays of dogwood. As the temperature climbs, the guys peel off their outer layers. ey use the morning light to reconfigure their setups, and it’s not long before Jeff hooks up with a bite. e prize is on the smaller side, but soon he snags another. Although Pickwick is also known for its bass, Jeff and Bobby simply prefer going after crappie. “ey’re good eatin’,” Jeff says. Ultimately, that’s what the choice comes down to. e guys are also big into hunting deer, turkey, rabbit, squirrel and anything else that pleases their palates. But there’s more to fishing than just catching dinner. “It’s relaxing to get out on the water, and it’s a lot of fun,” Jeff adds.

With the sun on his face, Bobby smiles at his son. ey work around

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each other on the boat as if they’ve been doing the exact same thing together forever. In truth, they have. Bobby used to take Jeff out on his boat when Jeff was a kid, and now Jeff gets to return the favor.

Jeff, who grew up in Muscle Shoals, now lives in Chattanooga, where he works for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), but he makes it back to Alabama as often as possible to fish with his father. “is boat hasn’t been broken in yet,” Bobby says to his son with a smile. “I think you’d better leave it with me.” Bobby, now retired from working as an electrician for the TVA, has just a little bit more time to get at those crappie these days. e Chattanooga area has a lot to offer for an angler as well. It’s situated on the Tennessee River, and TVA reservoirs like Chickamauga and Nickajack are in close proximity. Jeff says he hasn’t had a chance to fish them yet. He claims he prefers Pickwick because it’s terrific for crappie, but now that the sun has burned off the fog, the truth is a little clearer: He simply likes having his number-one fishing buddy onboard.

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(This page) Thanks to the Montauk’s reliable performance and fishing capability, Jeff and Bobby look forward to many fruitful seasons ahead.

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Story by Jennifer Chesak | Photos by Mike Calabro

I s l a n d s in the s t r e a m A Boston Whaler Dauntless keeps a couple busy exploring the many waterways and islands along the beautiful Georgia coast

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D

Dan and Patty Cook tie up their Boston Whaler Dauntless at A-J’s Dockside Restaurant, a favorite on Georgia’s Tybee Island near Savannah.

Patty ogles the standup paddle boarders and kayakers who are making their way out into the Wilmington River and its maze of tributaries that cut through the marshlands.

“We should do that sometime,” she says to Dan. Patty’s love of the water surprises her. “I actually grew up in the desert in Texas,” she explains. “I was a military brat.” Yet it was Patty who chose the couple’s second Whaler, which they bought in 2009 from Hall Marine. “I picked out the 200 Dauntless,” she adds. “It’s got the head and it seats a lot of people.

We can get the whole family onboard.” The family includes two adult daughters and two grandchildren who like to tag along on the weekends.

Dan and Patty find a sunny spot on the patio and order up a Southern-style smorgasbord of conch fritters, buffalo shrimp, fries, chicken fingers and slaw.

While they eat, they reminisce about their previous Whaler as if talking about an old friend. “She was an awesome, awesome boat,” Patty says of the 210 Conquest the Cooks had for 13 years. The couple is quick to point out that even after more than a decade of solid use, the Conquest is still a fantastic vessel and that another local boater is currently enjoying the heck out of it.

(Previous page) The Cockspur Island lighthouse was established in 1849 to guide travelers through the island-dotted stretch of river leading to the port of Savannah. These days Dan and Patty Cook (previous inset and left) rely on their Dauntless to ferry them safely around the area’s waterways.

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(This page) Georgia’s Barrier Islands give the Cooks ample playground to put their Whaler through its paces. A natural abundance of wildlife sweetens the deal and inspires delicious local fare.

“I made six trips to Bimini with that boat,” Dan says. “I was even featured in a documentary about the Bermuda Triangle. e first year when we went to the Bahamas, there was a hurricane. ere are not many 21-foot boats I would trust to be out in 6-foot seas.”

Luckily, close to home, the Cooks generally get to contend with the best that Mother Nature has to offer. “In the late afternoon or early evening, you can take advantage of some really nice cruising,” Dan says. ey take it over to the Barrier Islands when they’re looking to get away. Conservation laws have prevented over development, which provides Georgia with one of the most uninterrupted coastlines on the eastern seaboard.

Only four of Georgia’s eight clusters of Barrier Islands are accessible by car: Tybee, Sea, Jekyll and St. Simmons. e other four, accessible only by boat, offer wide stretches of ever-changing soft and sandy beaches and beautiful dune scapes. ese islands are also colored with stunning wildflowers and fringed with golden sea oats. A maritime forest provides a canopy of southern magnolia, pine, palm and the iconic majestic live oak dripping with silvery Spanish moss. e Barrier Islands protect the mainland from wind and waves coming in off the Atlantic, but the varying habitats also create a home for fauna ranging from alligators to ghost crabs.

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If Dan and Patty are in the mood for a little wining and dining instead, they’ll head to Hilton Head, South Carolina, about a 75-minute ride by boat to the north. e island offers everything from world-class theater and symphony performances to destination food and wine festivals. Hilton Head is also a PGA tour stop and features a famous course designed by golf legends Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus. e Georgia coastline is 110 miles long, but the many islands create miles and miles of navigable waterways for when the Cooks get the itch for a little discovery. Tybee, Wilmington and Skidaway Islands provide a magnificent trifecta right near metro Savannah. e creeks and rivers that carve through these landmasses would take months and months to completely explore. e Cooks will have fast access now that they are building a home on Skidaway at South Harbor, a boating community. e couple is excited to pick up the plans from the architect for their new house tomorrow. At South Harbor, they’ll have access to a community dock, a lift and dry storage and be near plenty of other likeminded water lovers.

Dan pushes the baskets of fried fare to the side, wipes his hands on a napkin and looks out over the water. e high tide has dredged up the pluff mud, which creates a beautiful dark bloom around the chartreuse sea grass. “I grew up around Whalers and always wanted to have

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The Dauntless’s soft, dry ride means Dan and Patty can crank the throttle without hesitation. Vistas like the Tybee Island Lighthouse (opposite) lend additional reason to sightsee by water.

one,” he says. Dan was raised in Fort Myers, Florida, and spent a lot of time out on the Caloosahatchee River.

“Whalers are very dry boats,” Patty adds. “ey’re durable and safe.

And they’re also well-rounded boats.” Patty has full confidence in the Whaler when Dan takes it offshore on fishing trips. She knows he and his buddies will come back safe and sound, especially with the dependable 200-hp Mercury Verado FourStroke powering it.

“I like the Mercury for its durability,” Dan says. “It’s quiet and has good fuel economy.” Dan, who has mostly favored offshore excursions in the past, is looking to get in on the inshore scene. “We call it the inshore slam,” he says. “Redfish, trout and flounder. at’s what happens around here. People get into catching versus fishing. But I’m not complaining. I’ve got the right boat for just about anything, and I like the peace and tranquility.”

When Dan is out fishing, Patty likes to catch mischief. One day she headed out to get a goldfish, something to keep her company, but she ended up coming home with Winston, a Lab and golden retriever mix she rescued from Save-A-Life. “It’s his dog now,” Patty says, smiling and rolling her eyes.

Dan nods in agreement. He was a little surprised about the new addition to the family at first, but he and Winston became fast friends.

“He absolutely loves the boat,” he says. “You pick up the beach bag and he knows we’re going.” Curious by nature, Winston favors checking out the coastal wildlife. “e dolphins will come up to the swim platform and they will talk to him,” Patty explains. e Cooks even opted to add a freshwater wash

to their Whaler, just for Winston, so that he can freshen up after a dip with his finned friends.

Winston gets to tag along on most excursions, especially if Dan and Patty head in to downtown Savannah to enjoy the city’s beautiful squares. “We love to go down there, take the dog and get pizza at Vinnie Van GoGo’s,” Dan says. e New York–style pizzeria sits on the corner of Savannah’s famed City Market, where visitors can enjoy live music, run in and out of shops and dine alfresco.

Architects and planners have lauded Savannah’s city layout for its beauty and abundance of green space. Founder General James Oglethorpe originally intended the first squares, designed in 1733, as space for military training and exercise. In recent decades, the American Society of Civil Engineers has honored Savannah as a National Historical Civil Engineering Landmark. Today, the squares feature statues honoring generals, presidents and other important figures.

Patty works in Savannah, not far from the historic district, as a civil mediator for the state of Georgia. Dan is the service director for a major car dealership. He’s even sold his Whaler salesman, Paul Williams at Hall Marine, various vehicles over the years. “Paul set us up great,” Dan says of his Dauntless. “Before it’s all over, I will probably work for Paul, selling Whalers. I like the boating industry.”

After their early dinner, Dan and Patty climb back onboard their boat and shove off from A-J’s dock. e sun hangs low in the sky, lighting up the silky fronds in the marsh and casting a golden glow on Wilmington. At the helm, Dan takes a deep breath and looks over at his wife. “Well, dear,” he says, “which way would you like to go?”

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Captiva Rendezvous an inaugural gulf Coast event brings florida Whaler oWners together for a Weekend of fun and relaxation Story by Amy Wideman | Photos by Mark Kellum

•

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By definition, a legend is an historical account— often one that can be hard to believe and gathers momentum like a wave.

O

One… two… three… TUG! Ah, the age-old competitive tradition that is tug o’ war. Historians trace its roots to ancient Greece, where displays of brute strength were a surefire way to draw a crowd. Two teams square off, positioning themselves at intervals along a rope’s bristled length. A dozen or more pairs of feet stake their claim in the sand; forearms flex and burn with anticipation; and sweat beads on foreheads like condensation on an ice-cold piña colada. In those laden moments before the official’s signal, the teams crouch lower, staring daggers into their opponents’ eyes. And then the cue is given. And then a few seconds of full-on exertion dissolve into peals of laughter as bodies collapse in a sandy, elated heap.

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(Previous page) Setting out from Captiva for Saturday’s flotilla, the merry band of Whalers made an impressive sight. (These pages) Highlights of the Rendezvous included beach games, swimming, fishing and a cookout feast. (Top right) Nightfall at the South Seas Island Resort, a welcoming home for the Boston Whaler group.

Such was the scene at Charlie Pass on March 8, where teams from the MarineMax and Boston Whaler staffs went head to head in a fiercely entertaining showdown. ey were there to host a lively group of Whaler owners, all gathered for the inaugural Captiva Rendezvous.

Sandy competition was a marquee event at the afternoon’s island cookout, but just one of many. On that brisk spring afternoon, cannonballs were perfected and doggy paddles practiced. Fishing poles were expertly wielded and boats put through their paces. Sunscreen was generously passed. And a feast of potato salad, sun-warmed cookies and freshly grilled burgers and dogs was happily consumed.

In addition to the activities at Charlie Pass, the Rendezvous agenda was packed with album-worthy moments. ings had officially kicked off Friday evening with a welcome party at the luxurious South Seas Island Resort, where guests mingled over appetizers and music. Earlier in the day, many had taken the opportunity to demo the new Boston Whaler models available for test rides, including the inspired 270 Dauntless and the all-new, Innovation Award–winning 345 Conquest (see page 24). e group had faced less-than-ideal weather on the trip down, braving high winds and a chill in the air, but nothing that could quash the unsinkable Whaler spirit. “Friday we didn’t have the best

conditions but our salesman, Diamond Neely, encouraged us to go, and it worked out great,” said MarineMax Naples customer Jody Newhouse, who boated down with her husband, Ronald, on their 270 Dauntless.

“It was our first time on a group trip like this, and everybody was so sweet and kind and gracious.”

“We were pleased to see nearly 100 percent attendance from everyone who registered, despite some iffy weather at the beginning,” said Jeff Vaughn, Boston Whaler’s vice president of sales, marketing and customer service, who attended with his wife and parents. “Gatherings like this prove, time and again, that Whaler owners truly know how to have fun. We’re always happy to provide opportunities for our customers to get together in a relaxed, beautiful setting and just enjoy nature, their boats, and each other’s company.”

Saturday morning, many awoke bright and early to prepare for the West Coast Slam, a catch-and-release fishing tournament. Participants documented each catch with a photograph, and then sent the results to the honorable Captain Wil Rogers. “We saw quite a showing,” Wil confirmed. “We’ve got some skilled fishermen in this bunch.”

Not long after the fishing teams set out, a flotilla of Whaler clans departed from South Seas, setting out for their ultimate destination, the cookout at Charlie Pass. It was an impressive sight, more than a

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“GatherinGs like this prove, time and aGain, that Whaler oWners truly knoW hoW to have fun.”

Aerial photo courtesy of South Seas Island Resort, Captiva, FL

(Top left) An aerial shot of the island hints at the tranquility guests of Captiva enjoy. (Top right and above) With matching Captiva shirts and abundant Whaler pride, the group was readily identifiable.

(Left) Whaler President Huw Bower and his son soak up the sunshine and flurry of beach activity.

dozen boats stretched across the turquoise horizon in a gleaming array. “ey led us on a tour around the area, and we all had our radios and communicated back and forth,” Jody described. “e leaders pointed out different sights, the lighthouse and so on. We saw all sorts of things you can only get to by water, which was really interesting.”

After the cookout, the victories and heartaches of the aforementioned tug o’ war, and several hours of premium-grade Vitamin D, the group headed back to Captiva for the evening. But not before preserving some of the highlights on their smartphones—posting shots to Facebook and Twitter with hashtag #WhalerCaptiva2014 earned them entry into the weekend-long Selfie Contest. The resulting portraits were creative, colorful and, in many cases, downright hilarious.

President Huw Bower was there to partake in the whole works. “It was such a pleasure to spend time with a really terrific group of owners, and to have my family share in the experience,” said Bower. “Captiva was a perfect setting for the event. There were a lot of standout

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moments, but nothing topped seeing several generations of Whaler fans all fishing, swimming and playing beach games together at the cookout.” at evening, guests caught their second wind over cocktails on the waterfront. Music wafted through the cool air on a breeze that rustled the palms and fluttered the red Whaler flags dotting the harbor. en dinner was served—a hearty spread of seafood, colorful salads, and, of course, dessert. “e food was great, the resort was beautiful, the people were wonderful. It was just such a relaxing weekend,” Jody said, summing up the positive vibes. “Everyone was just so down-to-earth and real.”

As dinner and dancing came to an end, the guests slipped off to their respective accommodations—some in the resort, some onboard a Whaler bobbing gently in the marina, all of them delightfully stuffed with food, laughter and fond memories of an unforgettable Captiva Rendezvous.

Sea Tow Services International, Inc. ©2014. All rights reserved.

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