Unmatched pulling power, perfectly matched to your boat.
CHOOSE UNRIVALED PERFORMANCE INTRODUCING THE EVINRUDE® E-TEC® G2™ With your new Evinrude E-TEC G2 you can choose to get the most towing power out of your pontoon and burn less fuel doing it. Because of it’s PurePower Combustion which precisely mixes the perfect 14:1 air and fuel ratio, this revolutionary new outboard delivers 20% more torque than the closest competition. Combine that with 15% more fuel efficiency* and 75% fewer emissions than the leading competitors and it’s clear to see that the Evinrude E-TEC G2 delivers uncompromising performance that’s unrivaled in the outboard industry. Experience the power of choice at ChooseYourETEC.com
©2015 BRP US Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®™ Trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. * Based on BRP conducted performance and ICOMIA Fuel Efficiency testing of BRP and competitive engines.
uki Announces z u S
End Of Season Savings Buy a new suzuki outboard this fall and take advantage of year-end savings, cash rebates and “gimme six!” on select models.
FALL
CA$H INTO
Get Up to $800 Cash Back from Suzuki when you buy select models. See your participating dealer for the details. Amounts vary depending on the model, so be sure to ask your dealer.
Get Suzuki’s standard 3-year Limited Warranty, plus their 3-Year Extended Protection Plan at no extra charge. Just say, “Gimme Six!”
Offers end December 31, 2015. See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for details, or visit www.suzukimarine.com.
End-of-Season Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki outboards made between 10/01/15 and 12/31/15. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Customer will have the choice to either apply the cash rebate against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account) or have a check sent directly to the customer. Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki outboard motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 10/01/15 and 12/31/15 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2015 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
NEW MERCURY 115HP FOURSTROKE
Get heavy-duty performance behind you. The Mercury 115hp FourStroke gives your pontoon a real performance punch. A high torque 2.1 liter displacement outboard delivers best-in-class acceleration and overall boat performance. Upgrading to a Mercury Command Thrust model gives you a larger class gearcase that uses a bigger diameter propeller for greater acceleration, better handling, improved maneuverability, and superior stopping power. Mercury’s exclusive Focused Mount System significantly reduces vibration, which in turn increases engine durability and life. It’s good to have Mercury behind you.
› Available with
The Mercury Enertia® propeller
that delivers phenomenal acceleration, top speed and durability.
©Mercury Marine
Blue Sky. Clear Water. South Bay.
Ahhhh Inspiring! MORE POWER.
MORE EYE APPEAL.
• 3.0+ Trifecta Performance Package option • Up to 350 HP • Inboard/outboard motors
• New exterior panel color combinations • Super Sport Trim Package option • New dynamic graphics
MORE COMFORT.
• Optional pillow-top furniture • Soft-touch fabrics • Deluxe option packages
MORE CHOICES. • • • • •
New electric-powered arch models New upper deck models More floor plan options New colors New option packages
A Berkshire Hathaway Company
southbaypontoon.com
It’s About Family and Friends.
FEAT U R ES
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24 28 32 34 40
CHANGING THE GAME Premier Showcases Amazing Innovations HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Something For The Boater In Your Life
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YEAR IN PICTURES Our Favorite Facebook Pics PDB DAYS 2015 A Look Back On A Fun-Filled Weekend HALL OF FAME PDB Inducts Two New Members
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FALL 2015
D E PA RT M E N T S
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PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
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LOOKING BACK PDB Ten Years Ago CAPTAIN’S CHAIR Common Sense Versus Technology BETTER BOATER Keeping Your Boat Safe During The Winter TACKLE BOX Tackle Stowage Matters NO WAKE ZONE Family Boating At Its Best
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ADVERTISER INDEX Page Number Listings TWENTY YEARS OF PDB Years Of Support STAYING IN ‘TOON Installing Hydraulic Steering
Cover Photo by Premier Marine | Cover Design by R.D. Dye
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LET’S CELEBRATE THE LIFESTYLE
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PONTOON & DECK BOAT MAGAZINE STAFF
Looking Back — Fall 2005
FALL 2015
By Austa Cook
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
10
It was a decade ago that Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in all its fury, upending the lives of countless people as quickly as it upended their homes, cars, boats and levees. Considered to be the costliest hurricane to date, the toppling ruins this natural disaster left to settle in its wake were catastrophic. Following the aftermath, PDB Freelancers Gini and Dan McKain were found picking their way through the debris, snapping shots to capture this moment in history. The images they collected were printed in our Fall 2005 issue and told a compelling story of just how furiously this storm pounded the coastal cities. Pictures of pontoons, yachts, and runabouts teetering on matchstick remains of homes and protruding from the sides of apartment complexes were matched only by shots of deck boats balancing impossibly on pilings or on top of other boats. An entire houseboat had been lifted into the air and ended up in the middle of a parking lot, the police officers standing nearby looking miniscule in comparison. It’s a great credit to Gini and Dan that they were able to record such discerning images to share with our readers across the nation, and to further share the inspiring words of those affected by the natural disaster. “What else can be said? We escaped the wrath of Hurricane Katrina with our lives. For that we are eternally grateful,” Judy Massey of Slidell, La., said days after the 2005
storm. “Even though we have lost almost all of a lifetime of physical possessions like our 20-foot Weeres pontoon boat, you can’t take any of them with you when you leave this earth. And all of these can eventually be replaced.” Included in our No Wake Zone was a spotlight on the Coast Guard Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund, a non-profit created to help the well over 2,000 Coast Guard men and women who had been brought in and helped aid those areas that were hit by Hurricane Katrina the hardest and who in turn needed a helping hand to support their families through the aftermath. “Crews are working around-the-clock, despite knowing all they have left is the uniform on their backs,” the spotlight read. You can say this about Hurricane Katrina: after such devastating loss and destruction followed something undeniably beautiful—the intensely compassionate love and growth that turned a deadly situation into a beautiful testament of humankind’s abilities to rise to meet a life-altering challenge. Nowadays, the Coast Guard Foundation is alive and well and still inspiring funds to give back to those who serve our country every day. If you’re interested in donating or finding out more, visit www.coastguardfoundation.org.
EDITORIAL Editor Brady L. Kay Editorial Staff Austa Cook, Jake Manning, Trevor Mason, Vanessa Santoro, Roy Sparks, Rory B. Bellows Editorial Correspondent Dan Armitage Editorial Correspondent Gini McKain ADVERTISING Advertising Director Greg Larsen glarsen@pdbmagazine.com Advertising Executive Terri Duncan terri@pdbmagazine.com Administrative Assistant Terri Duncan terri@pdbmagazine.com MARKETING Marketing Director Greg Larsen CIRCULATION Circulation Director Yvonne Young ProCirc, LLC PRODUCTION Production Manager Janet Chase Layout & Design Artist R.D. Dye HARRIS PUBLISHING GROUP ADMINISTRATION Publisher Greg Larsen Executive Editor Brady L. Kay Administrative Assistant Terri Duncan Production Manager Janet Chase Circulation Manager Yvonne Young Controller Clayton Ward Production Janet Chase Production Jim Donovan Production R.D. Dye Accounting Laura Rafferty HARRIS PUBLISHING EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION Founder Darryl W. Harris President Jason Harris Vice President Chuck Harris Vice President Ryan Harris Vice President Steve Janes Vice President Greg Larsen Treasurer Clayton Ward Secretary Janet Chase
Copyright, PDB magazine is published 11 times per year by Harris Publishing, Inc., sub rates, back copies, foreign, reproduction prohibitions, all rights reserved, not responsible for contents of ads and submitted materials, mail permits printed in Idaho Falls, ID. The basic subscription price is $19.97 for 11 issues. Cover price is $3.95. Canadian and Foreign subscriptions add $20.00 per 11 issues. U.S. funds only. Limited back issues are available for $5.00 each. Copyright 2015 by Harris Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission is strictly prohibited. Call 800-638-0135 to purchase a subscription, to correct your mailing label, or to order back issues. CORPORATE OFFICE Harris Publishing, Inc. 360 B Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83402 (208) 542-2293 • Fax (208) 522-5241 www.pdbmagazine.com Also publishers of Houseboat and Diesel Tech magazines.
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WELCOME TO
PREMIER.
T HE A LL-NE W
DODICI 310 PUB
THERE’S NO PL ACE LIK E IT
P R E M I E R
P O N T O O N S
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Captain’s Chair PDB’s
THOUGHTS FROM THE HELM
Common Sense Versus Technology
FALL 2015
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PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
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arlier this year Ford released an automatic backup system that takes all the thinking out of backing up your boat trailer. It’s actually kind of slick. The system does all the thinking and you just back up straight as an arrow while your steering wheel automatically adjusts. Impressed by this latest technology, I put it up on Facebook as something I felt boaters would find interesting. While a lot of people agreed it was impressive, the overwhelming response from people was if you can’t back up a trailer you shouldn’t own a boat. Yeah, it was a little harsh, but I think the point was actually kind of valid. Technology is taking all the “feel” out of boating, driving, etc., and I think what is being lost is the real world experience of just doing something yourself. It’s kind of like digital cameras. My parents are both professional photographers so I grew up in a house where you learned what an F-stop is at an early age. However, technology has made it possible that any schmuck with a credit card can pick up a camera and achieve professional results without ever venturing off the auto settings. I’m probably a little old fashioned in my thinking, but it would be nice if people learned the basics of photography before just letting the camera do all the thinking for them. Back in July, Mercury introduced
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a very unique throttle system that automatically adjusts the trim for you. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been boating with people who have no idea how to work the trim, or in some cases I questioned if they even knew what a trim switch was. They’ll be plowing through the water and it will take every ounce of self control in my body to not jump up and trim the engine myself, yet I still refrain…most of the time.
“There’s no way I could have done that; I would have been too quick to just hit the guy over the head with a hammer.” When pitching this new throttle system from Mercury to both media and select dealers, one dealer became almost outraged when he questioned if this would really work. “With this system it keeps the speed locked in, even in the corners, by adjusting the RPMs,” said this boat dealer to a Mercury rep. “I don’t like this because if I’m pulling my kids on a tube they could get hurt!” I give props to the rep for keeping a straight face and not cracking up. He politely and in a respectful way replied to the clueless dealer, “You can of course manually override the system at any time.”
There’s no way I could have done that; I would have been too quick to just hit the guy over the head with a hammer. When hearing the reply and realizing his own stupidity, the dealer gave the deer in the headlights look and sheepishly walked away. I guess in his mind he thought he would just set the boat to autopilot and then leave the helm and go sit in the back with his wife. Kind of scary to think there are people like this on the same waters that we boat on, sheesh! In all seriousness, these advancements are a great tool for everyone. Not only will they take the scare factor out of boating for newbies and veterans alike, but they will also get new people into boating and that’s something I’m happy to see. Boating is the greatest hobby you can have and if automatic adjusting trim systems, joy stick docking or auto backing trucks help make it possible for others, then that works for me. And for those purists out there who disagree, take it upon yourselves to do more than just complain. Take the time to teach the next generation boater. The older we all get, the more we tend to forget that at one time we were new to boating.
Brady L. Kay, PDB Editor
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INFINITY has expanded their high performing, dynamically designed offerings for 2016. In addition to Luxury Woven Vinyl, the first choice in marine flooring, INFINITY now offers bimini, awning & canvas material as well as upholstery vinyl! Color coordinate your boat, head - to - toe Infinity, and allow our low maintenance, easy care products help you extend days on the water with family and friends!
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SUPREME™ is the first breathable, colorfast Luxury Woven Vinyl™ Bimini, Awning & Canvas in the Marine Industry.
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UPHOLSTERY VINYL INFINITY now offers complete interior packages with new SUPERIOR™ Upholstery Vinyl.
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Better Boater PDB’s
PLANE & SIMPLE
Trevor Mason
Go Secure
How to keep your boat safe during the long winter months
FALL 2015
What steps would you take to keep your family safe? Would you keep them under lock and key? Replace all your windows with bulletproof Lucite? Install subcutaneous tracking devices on them so you knew their location at all times? Okay, those are all pretty outlandish, but some variant of each of those hare-brained ideas is available for keeping your pontoon or deck boat safe in the winter months. We covered how to winterize your boat in the last issue; now it’s time to figure out how to keep an eye on it when it’s cold out.
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
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Running On Empty
Regardless of how or where you’re storing your boat, there are a few things you can do first that will make life a lot easier for you. After you’ve winterized it, there are still things to do. First, take everything off the boat: life jackets, garbage cans, registration papers, etc. Basically, anything that isn’t bolted down should come off. If nothing else, this step will let you take inventory of your boat’s contents so you know where everything is and if you’re missing anything for next season. In the case of your title and registration, it’s a great idea to keep those off the boat in the event of a theft, so you can prove your ownership after the fact.
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Don’t Fuhgettaboutit
Obviously, the main thing you need to do over the winter is constantly check on your boat. Come up with a schedule that you’re comfortable with, and stick to it. You already do regular maintenance checks anyway (right?) so just translate those checks into is-my-boat-still-afloat-and-not-at-thebottom-of-a-lake checks. Whether it’s docked, dry-docked, or physically in storage somewhere, constant attention is a
What’s the easiest way to keep track of something when you’re not physically present to keep watch over it? If you said, “Well, a security camera, I guess,” congratulations, Captain Obvious. If you said telepathy or something equally absurd, congratulations: the asylum is now accepting new patients. If you said, “Send one of my lackeys,” you have better foresight than I, so, uh, congratulations? Anyway, the point is that security cameras are a good way to keep an eye on things down at the marina (which would be good year-round) or at your storage facility of choice. Luckily, cameras are pretty easy to come by these days, for not (necessarily) a lot of money. One company that has the needs of boaters squarely in mind is Global Ocean Security Technologies (GOST). They offer a wide range of devices that make keeping track of your boat easy. From GPS trackers to wireless camera monitoring, their products will let you keep an eye on your boat from a distance and notify you at a moment’s notice of any foul play. (www.gostglobal.com) If you’re lucky enough to live in a warmer climate where leaving your pontoon at the marina is a viable option, do what you can to make sure the marina is well-lit and has its own cameras. If it doesn’t, that may be out of your hands, but you could try to rally support from others on your dock to convince the marina to install them. As ever, that takes time, so in the meantime, it’s on you to be vigilant.
Wrap It Up
What if you just keep your boat at your house or some other off-site location during the winter? It may sound like a joke, but seriously, watch out for
One alternative to shrink wrapping is a company called Kover Klamps (www.koverklampframes.com). They make custom clamps that secure pieces of conduit into a frame. The conduit that Kover Klamps recommends is 3/4inch inside-diameter “EMT” thin-walled conduit, which is something you can pick up on your own from any hardware
store. That frame goes around your boat and you attach one of their custom covers to it. The covers they sell are durable and designed to last the life of the boat. Once the frame is assembled, they use a custom colorcoding system to mark where each piece goes so that subsequent assemblies go smoothly. Then you can store the frame and cover for future use.
On The Trail(er)
Finally, if your boat is trailered, it’s a good idea to chain up the trailer so some ne’er-do-well can’t just hook onto it and drive off. Also, you can turn the trailer around so the tongue is away from the street (or whatever the point of ingress is). If none of these options works for you, there are companies and services out there that offer heated boat storage in the winter months. They’re going to be pretty localized, though, and will probably only accept local boats, so do some digging and see if there are any in your neighborhood. Typically, they’ll offer features like 24-hour security, temperature alarms, backup generators, and lifts to move your boat around. Now’s the time to start making your winter plans. You don’t want to be caught standing on the dock when you pull your boat out, scrambling to come up with a storage plan. Any of these options (or some combination thereof) will help set your mind at ease while you’re weathering the ravages of winter.
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FALL 2015
Don’t Be Camera Shy
raccoons. Eleanor Roosevelt may have kept one as a pet, but any home owner can tell you what a nuisance they are, especially when it comes to them rooting around where they don’t belong, like, say, your trash cans or under your boat cover. Many a boat has been torn up beyond recognition due to an overzealous gaze of raccoons. (That’s the word for a group of raccoons. Seriously.) So how do you keep the critters at bay? A dog would probably help. But you can also shrink wrap your boat while it’s in storage. Shrink wrapping can be a DIY project, although it does lean a little more to the professional side of things, especially if you’ve never done it before. Companies like Dr. Shrink (www.dr-shrink.com) and ProTect (www.shrinkwrapboats.com) offer tools and supplies for purchase or rental if you decide to tackle it yourself. Be warned: it’s a pretty involved process that’ll require the help of multiple people. Plus, all the components you need can be expensive, so make sure it’s something you’re going to do every year before you commit. You also will have to dispose of the wrap in the spring, so that’s another consideration.
15 PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
must. But what if it’s far away or you just simply can’t be bothered to go check on it yourself?
Tackle Box PDB’s
T I P S
F O R
T H E
A N G L E R
By Dan Armitage
No matter how you choose keep your tackle organized aboard, it needs to be accessible to the action. Plastic “utility” boxes like those offered by Flambeau and Plano are by far the most popular way to organize and store fishing lures and terminal tackle. Some boats are built to offer lockers specifically designed to accept the more popular sizes of boxes.
FALL 2015
There’s something to be said for the simplicity offered by a plain cardboard box tackle storage system.
Tackle Stowage Matters
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
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hile packing for an upcoming fishing trip, I spent an hour or so in my basement going through the various boxes I maintain for containing and organizing fishing lures, line and accessories. I have various sizes of most of the popular—and not so popular—brands of plastic tray-style tackle containers, many of which I have been sent over the years for testing and review. Because they were free and needed, they all see use in my basement even if they didn’t pass muster in the reviews. From faulty latches to leaking seams to odd sizing, all tackle “utility” trays are not created equal. But they
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don’t have to be to see service as storage containers in the dry, climate-controlled confines of the lowest level of my suburban home. They don’t have to be waterproof or of a certain size or shape to fit my hodgepodge of storage shelves. However, the storage boxes do need to be mouse proof, following an accidental introduction of several generations of field mice that took place when I towed a jon boat home after several years of storage in a barn. When I parked it next to the house and used a garden hose on the boat to wash it down, dozens of mice that had been living under the
Today’s tackle storage options include boxes with built-in lights and even speakers and a port to plug in your iPod or other audio device, such as these models from Wild River. (www.go wildriver.com)
Dan’s Pick:
Hotwoods 615 Aluma Sport
The smaller the boat, the greater the benefits of smart, organized tackle storage. One small pontoon I’d love to organize and angle from is Hotwood’s model 615 Aluma Sport, an all-stainless-steel-and-aluminum 15-footer with a deck 14 feet long and 6 feet wide supported and super-stabilized by four 12-inch-diameter logs that give the boat a skinny 6-inch draft. Fishing options such as rod holders and 14- or 20-gallon livewells are offered with the 615 model, as well as all manner of canvas, rail and seating options. Nebraskabased Hotwoods has been building boats for nearly three decades and will deliver and assemble their boats anywhere in the continental USA—or welcome you to pick up your pontoon at their Grand Island manufacturing facility. Hotwoods 615 Aluma Sport Specs Length: .............................................................. 15’ Beam: ............................................................... 6.5’ Weight: ......................................................500 lbs. Weight Capacity: .....................................1,200 lbs. Max HP:.............................................................. 15 MSRP: ....... $5,349 ($1,100 for custom Shoreland’r trailer) 877-407-8645 www.hotwoods.com
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FALL 2015
Hotwood’s 615 Aluma Sport is the Nebraska-based boat (and dock) builder’s most popular pontoon boat model.
17 PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
false floor of the craft jumped ship and made a beeline for the nearby foundation, eventually making their way into the crawlspace and the adjacent basement. They have thrived there ever since, nesting in waders, raising mouse families fed by Powerbaits and packaged doughballs and leaving signs of their presence strewn about in discreet locations. I do require that the various plastic boxes I use for long term tackle storage be “worm proof,” after some sticky situations with boxes made of inferior plastic that melted and absorbed some of my favorite twister-tails and soft plastic worms and creature baits. This time of year, when we pull the boat for the season, I spend a few hours re-organizing the tackle I keep aboard the pontoon. When it comes to tackle storage during the fishing season aboard the boat, I hold a higher standard for my boxes. After trying them all, like thousands of other anglers, I have come to rely on the venerable plastic utility boxes from Plano. Offering several models in standardized sizes, even boat manufacturers now design their tackle storage lockers to accommodate the popular 3700 series of tackle storage boxes. With dimensions of 14 inches long by 9.13 inches wide by 2 inches high, the boxes come in a variety of layouts and latches and are pretty much the “go to” boxes among anglers. The 3700 line comes in other designs, sizes and shapes, but with boat manufacturers and even tackle box makers conforming to accept the Plano 3700s, they are all I use aboard the boat or when packing to travel to various fishing destinations. Actually, aboard the family FloteBote, I could use any size boxes, for I keep my tackle trays not secured in a customshaped locker or tote, but loose in the compartment under the flip-up seat, designed by aftermarket pontoon furniture designer Signature as a livewell, where I toss them for safe keeping between fishing trips. When it’s time to wet a line I grab only the ones I need based on their contents, and keep the others out from underfoot—or underhand, as I place the needed tackle box atop a table adjacent to the helm. I have crankbaits for trolling in one, sinkers, hooks and rigs for bottom fishing in another, and bobbers and sinkers and hooks for float fishing in another. One Plano 3700 contains nothing but soft baits, and an extra-deep model 3700 holds various jars and package of Powerbaits, Gulp! and other prepared baits. I learned the hard way to keep the bench seat pad firmly closed and weighted down with a milk crate containing a spare anchor and line. Several seasons ago a raccoon followed the scent of those prepared baits, boarded the docked boat and got a paw ‘tween the loose-fitting pad and the seat base and gained access to a smorgasbord of fishy treats. Evoking the memory of the multi-sensory bomb the resulting mess created is all the incentive I need to remember to secure that flip-up seat pad each time I step off the boat. That’s the theory behind the organized onboard storage system. But by this time of the year, after a season of shifting tactics and grabbing boxes and dodging rainstorms and having a teenager aboard, there’s no telling what tackle I will find in what box. But then that’s the joy of having an “off” season to sort it all out.
No Wake Zone PDB’s
PLACES, FACES, VIEWS, NEWS, PRODUCTS & MORE
Bennington Acquires Nautic Global Group
Since going public with the news that Nautic Global Group was for sale back in August, rumors and speculation in the boating industry became the talk at the dock. Well, the talking is over and it became official in mid-September when news broke that Bennington Marine signed a definitive acquisition agreement whereby the pontoon manufacturer acquired the brands and certain assets and liabilities of Nautic Global Group. Bennington Marine, family owned and operated by the Vogel family since Steve Vogel founded the business in 1997, is the premier maker of pontoon boats in the industry. Nautic Global Group is one of the leading manufacturers of a broad line of some of the best-known brands in the recreational boat industry including Aqua Patio, Sweetwater, Sanpan, Hurricane, Rinker, Godfrey and PolarKraft. (www.benningtonmarine.com/www.nauticglobalgroup.com)
Add A Modern Flair
Turn heads with Stella’s Burano Wheel, which was introduced at the 2015 International Boatbuilders’ Exposition & Conference. Perfect for upscale
FALL 2015
A Boost To BSA
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
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President and CEO of the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation Frank Peterson and Boy Scouts of America Fishing Committee Chairman Ben Jelsema recently signed a partnership agreement to support Boy Scout fishing through its BSA Certified Angling Instructor program. “Our goal is to double the number of Certified Angling Instructors with BSA, increasing the opportunities for Scouts ages 6 to12 to get involved in fishing,” said Peterson. “This partnership aligns nicely with our mission to get more people out on the water fishing and boating, in turn generating critical funds for state aquatic conservation activities.” RBFF will aid the Boy Scouts of America in teaching youth to enjoy the outdoors, enjoy boating and fishing activities, and protect the environment and waterways. (www.takemefishing.
org/www.scouting.org)
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pontoons, the Burano Wheel at 14 inches in diameter features easyto-clean stainless steel, the look and feel of hand-stitched leather,
Who Said It?
Quotes from this issue “We kept expanding our horizons on this project and as it grew, so did the feature content of the new model.”—Page 24
and unique spokes to add to a modern décor to your watercraft. The Burano Wheel retails for $275. (866-7246488/www.schmittongaro marine.com)
Something To Buzz About
New Marker One models released
“We’re responsible for the performance pontoon.” —Page 40 “If you are looking at finishing a project in the shortest amount of time, I can definitely say don’t film it.”—Page 46
Get Ready For Winter With Free Guide
If you haven’t already, protect your boat from harmful freezing this winter. The Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) has published a free, 15-page guide that will help you be ready for chilly weather. Download the guide today for pages tips, tricks, and information that could save you a lot of money. (www.boatus.
com/winterizingguide)
Cobalt and Marker One recently introduced five new models, setting a record for new boats introduced by the company in any one year. Among the big releases that all showed beautiful new styling and performance capabilities was the latest addition to the Marker One Platform Series. The ML4 features a popular L-shaped seating layout, new exterior and interior styling, and a competitive price point. With the fiberglass liner, distinctive fiberglass hull sides, electric swim step, and exciting gel coat color options, the ML4 is clearly going to be buzzed about. (www.cobaltboats.com/ www.markerone.com)
Keep Drinks Cool With Crest’s Eskimo Cup
For over 35 years, Canvasworks, Inc. has been creating highquality, custom canvas and aluminum frames for all your toys, ranging from trailers to custom fit boat covers. Just in time for winter, its new winter storage cover for pontoons features fabric welded seams and 13-ounce Snyder material. Canvasworks’s pontoon storage cover is re-useable for years to come, making it the greenest winter storage cover on the market. (844-223-8148/
www.canvasworksincmn.com)
FALL 2015
Never have a warm drink again onboard a Crest pontoon with the Dometic Eskimo Cup. Running on power from the battery, the Eskimo Cup keeps drinks refrigerator-cold, even after you take them out of the cooler. The Eskimo Cup was designed to mount flush and features marine-quality stainless steel trim ring and corrosion-resistant, non-stick surface for easy cleaning. A built-in drain eliminates condensation, rain and water splashes. Crest is now offering the Dometic Eskimo Cup as a featured amenity exclusively on its high-end Caribbean, Continental and Savannah pontoon boat models. Crest Marine is branding the refrigerated cup holder, installed at the helm, as the “Captain’s Cooled Cup Holder.” (www.crestpontoonboats.com/www.dometic.com)
New Custom Pontoon Cover Released
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No Wake Zone
Double Your Washing Power
Dock Your ’Toon With Surety
The folks at Shurhold Industries are dedicated to helping boat owners clean and care for their boats. Their 6-inch Soft/ Medium Combo Brush allows users to clean easy and tough spots with just one tool. The Combo Deck Brush features long soft fibers for cleaning and medium short fibers for scrubbing. As with all of Shurhold’s brushes, the Combo Deck Brush easily snaps into any of the company’s handles and features a solid wood base with rubber wraparound bumper. The Combo Brush starts at $33.98. (800-962-6241/www.shurhold.com)
Winter Tarp & Frame Systems Wasting $$$ On Shrink Wrap!!!!
Fast & Easy Installation with Instructional Video
CALL FOR FREE BROCHURE, COVER & KOVER KLIP SAMPLE
1-800-447-8536 See Website for Video Demonstration www.koverklampframes.com 151007KovKla16h.indd 1
8/5/15 9:10 AM
FALL 2015
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www.pontoonlegs.com 800.544.2067 ROLL-A-DOCK
CLASSIC DOCK
(www.suredock.usa.com)
Rock Out With boomBOTTLE+
An innovative on-board pontoon lift that travels with you.
Hewitt Pontoon Legs are a pontoon lifting system installed on the underside of the pontoon deck. Four aluminum legs raise and lower your pontoon in seconds at the touch of a button. Park your boat anywhere, and eliminate the hassle of winter lift removal.
SureDock recently introduced the company’s new stainless steel docking arm. Designed to hold and protect pontoon boats while attached to the dock, the arm’s quick-latch system allows for easy docking and undocking. It even allows the pontoon to move with changing water levels. No more redoing knots! It’s easy to install and comes with a lifetime warranty. SureDock can be purchased online for $199, shipping included, and comes standard with two mooring arms, one for the front and back of the pontoon, stainless steel mounting hardware and installation instructions.
Scan the code to view our new line of Pontoon Legs online.
View Hewitt’s full line of boat lifts, docks and accessories at www.hewitt-roll-a-dock.com WIDE BODY BOAT LIFT WITH CANOPY
SCOSCHE’s boomBOTTLE+ lets you jam to your music anywhere, even on the water. This portable Bluetooth speaker features a durable, shockabsorbing, rubberized exterior that withstands drops or vibrations caused by rough water and boasts an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. No need to worry about it going overboard! It also features a 6000mAh rechargeable Lithium-ion battery that provides up to 15 hours of play time. The USB port allows users to charge their mobile devices while listening to music. boomBOTTLE+ includes a micro charge and sync cable and a single 12-watt USB wall charger. It is available in black/ gold, black/gray and sporty blue/green combinations for $179.99. (www.scosche.com)
33047Hewitt13 1 www.pdbmagazine.com
6/3/14 10:24 AM
Blue Sky. Clear Water. Berkshire.
Ahhhh Inspiring! MORE POWER.
MORE EYE APPEAL.
• 3.0+ Trifecta Performance Package option • Up to 350 HP • Inboard/outboard motors
• New exterior panel color combinations • Super Sport Trim Package option • New dynamic graphics
MORE COMFORT.
• Optional pillow-top furniture • Soft-touch fabrics • Deluxe option packages
A Berkshire Hathaway Company
berkshirepontoon.com
MORE CHOICES. • • • • •
New electric-powered arch models New upper deck models More floor plan options New colors New option packages
Get More Out of Life.
No Wake Zone From The Forums
A Sign Of A Great Cover
Excerpts from recent PDB forum exchanges at www.pdbmagazine.com
[BuckeyeBoater]: I like it! Great idea. [WoodenPontoon]: I hope that view is toward the road, where everybody can see it. I’ve heard of other people using those billboards before. How durable are they as boat covers? Of course the price was definitely great! [Drive2Boat]: Super solution. Do you have a normal cover on under that?
One veteran forum member had an incredible idea for a boat cover: [wish2fish]: I wanted to share a picture of my winter cover. It is an unused billboard that we got from a local sign company for free. The frame is made of 2-inch PVC pipes. [bigkahuna]: Nice job! Seems wellcovered for the winter.
[wish2fish]: I have been using this cover since we got the pontoon in 2005 so the cover is entering its seventh winter of use. There are no signs of wear and tear anywhere on the cover. They are really thick plastic. The billboard had a hem all the way around so on the side we slid 3/4-inch PVC pipes through it and then we secured side to side using ropes and rubber straps. We don’t leave any other cover on it and haven’t had a problem yet. The pitch is pretty steep; it has gone through several large snow and ice storms in the six years used so far. My
dad got the idea of the billboard when he spent the winter in Florida. They were using them down there on houses that had shingles blown off by the hurricanes. He called one of the companies and they said they had signs that weren’t going to be used. My brother used one for his speedboat, I used this for the pontoon and I still have one in my shed. [Geno]: Thank you for sharing. I am a new owner of a pontoon. I was looking for a way to build a framework for my pontoon and this looks like it will fit the bill. What other ingenious solutions have you seen for boat covers? Jump on our forum page at www.pdbmagazine.com/ forum and share your thoughts!
Where’s The Paddle?
If you find the paddle hidden inside PDB magazine, your name could be printed in our next issue! In August, the paddle was on page 23 in the middle picture between two waves—although a second real paddle could be seen in the top picture leaning on the dock by the wooden chair. These are the first ten spotters:
FALL 2015
Dave Leonard Jeff Halverson Mark Singleton Luke Mitchell John Frank Ken Braun Ralph and Genevieve Ehrhart Joe Prey Jim Brignolio Jan and Jim Donald
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
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Wanatah, Ind. Crosslake, Minn. Johnston, Iowa Fremont, Wis. Bismarck, N.D. Hartford, Wis. Jerseyville, Ill. Poynette, Wis. Manteca, Calif. Mooresville, N.C.
Try your hand at finding it yourself! As soon as you see the paddle, email your name, your hometown, and its location to paddle@pdbmagazine.com. Paddle on!
www.pdbmagazine.com 150876IMT13.indd 1
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droPs tHe temPerature by uP to
25 degrees!
Reader Submission Photo
Perfect for a Hot day! great for Pontoons • Houseboats • Powerboats
TAKE 10% OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER BY MENTIONING THIS AD The LED lighting on Todd Sturm’s 2011 Bennington 2275 RCW makes a bold statement as it enflames the night at Saginaw Bay, in Sand Point, Mich. Share your best pictures on our Facebook page and yours could be picked for our next issue of PDB! To view the most recent submissions, click the button.
For more information or to order call:
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• COMPLETE KITS WITH OR WITHOUT TANK • EZ TO INSTALL-CONCEALED AND LOOKS PROFESSIONAL • 22 BOAT BUILDERS USE OUR MISTERS • DESIGNED FOR: BIMINI TOPS - HARD TOPS - DECKS ON BOATS visit our website for videos and more info:
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www.PlayCraftBoats.com Dealer Inquiries Welcome
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23 PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
573-765-3265
Every PlayCraft Pontoon is a product of great workmanship. We don’t take shortcuts in quality to make the fastest production pontoons on the market. From the graphics on the hull to the stitching on the sofas, we pay attention to every detail. When it’s time to leave it all behind, isn’t a PlayCraft what you deserve?
FALL 2015
POWER & BEAUTY
By Austa Cook
Changing The Game
FALL 2015
Premier releases three of their biggest innovations
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T
here are remarkably few things in a boat-lover’s life that beat an entire day spent out on the water with the ones you love. In fact, if we could somehow outfit our pontoons for a comfortable night’s rest while we’re out, most of us would probably have already called in sick to work and run out the door with our keys in hand right this second. But in reality, short of a houseboat, there aren’t many comfortable ways to spend the night on a pontoon. Enter Premier Marine.
Encounter
You’ve probably caught wind of a lot of the exciting new innovations that Premier has been unleashing in the last few months as they get their model lines geared for 2016.
www.pdbmagazine.com
With brand-new designs like the Dodici and Escalante, they’ve been on fire, and they call this latest trick the Encounter—the first center-cabin pontoon model to hit the water. Available in 290 and 310 models, this jaw-dropping new game changer comes standard with a 10-footwide layout, 42-inch PTX package, and—most exciting of all—the center-console sleeper cabin that will completely change your weekend boating experience. “This model performs like no other pontoon and features a very spacious interior cabin; it will satisfy our customers who like to spend as much time as possible on the water,” says Premier President Lori Melbostad. So how did this ground-breaking design come to be? John P. Deurr of Premier Marine Engineering says at first, the plan was to develop a tuck-under head and changing room compartment in the center console. But as this concept started to take form, they began to realize how much further it could be developed. “Once we designed the center tube that would allow us to drop down into it for added space, we were on our way,” Deurr says. “We kept expanding our horizons on this project and as it grew, so did the feature content of the new model. Before long we were into full design of the first production Cuddy Cabin Pontoon boat.” The crew at Premier determined that they could provide stand-up head clearance in the cabin to accommodate a 6-foot, 2-inch person while also providing a forward bunk for two adults. Borrowing some concepts from the RV industry, they next put together the convertible dinette that would sit four and sleep two children. Tucking the head into a small area in the aft section of the cabin base was the final touch, and, as Deurr says, “That was the beginning of the Encounter.”
Fine ’Tooning An Idea
FALL 2015
But the team wasn’t out of the woods yet. There were still some practicality tweaks to be made as they worked out the deeper intricacies of the design. How would they keep the interior completely dry? How would they join the interior pan with the exterior cabin structure? Where would they source the components for a boat that has never been built before? It was a lot to work on unraveling, but as the project continued to grow, so did their excitement. “We kept coming up with added features, options, and ideas for improvement. We knew we had something unique in this model and have even obtained a patent on its design and construction,” Deurr adds. With a strong market in the upper Midwest and Canada and as Premier starts to enter the foreign markets, the Encounter is a great show of this manufacturer putting its best foot forward in developing a boat to extend the boating season in cooler climates. And if you’re in an area where waterfront property is limited, the Encounter will definitely provide the extended use necessary for overnight and weekend boating. “It will be a replacement for many of the smaller cuddy cabin boats where deck space is limited,” says Deurr.
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FALL 2015
All Decked Out
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The 290 and 310 models boast 29 and 31 feet in deck length, respectively. Thanks to the very impressive deck footprints, you can be sure that Premier had ample space to fill with beautiful standard features. As a staff we recently had a chance to take a closer look. Tucked under the raised helm, the cabin is decked out with a plush sleeper, custom mattress, sheets, coverlet and plush pillows. Also in the cabin are the head, internal speakers, deck hatch, port lights and windows, and the aforementioned convertible dinette. We couldn’t resist trying out the cuddy area for ourselves and will attest that with the waves gently rocking the Encounter, it’s very tempting to see how quickly a person could fall asleep. Premier spared no expense cushioning everything with accent throw pillows that add a stylish and homey touch. Once we stepped into the sunlight above, we were quick to notice the exterior cockpit Imperial galley with a sink and refrigerator. The doublewide convertible helm seat and bow lounges are impeccably comfortable. There’s even a front-mounted camera for use with the Beacon touchscreen dash display. But it doesn’t even end there. The Encounter also boasts Prosperity furniture featuring the new Heritage marine-grade fabric, high-end Zenith wheel, Seagrass flooring, a front bench seat and sun lounger, new Duro rails and graphics, Marine Audio stereo and speakers, and a refrigerated cup holder at the helm—all standard. The galley area complete with a faux granite tabletop is undeniably unique with its beautiful glass bowl that serves as a sink, over which the goose-necked faucet elegantly curves. When we first stepped aboard the 310 model, this was one of the first things that really drew our eye. That, and the fact that the sun pad and bench seat combo looks absolutely perfect for stargazing at night. That, and the undeniably high-end look of the locking smoked glass door that marks the entrance to the cabin. That, and the comfort level of all the upholstery is like smooth-as-butter leather.
www.pdbmagazine.com
That, and there’s a cabin onboard. Resplendent with LED lights and equipped with a 120-gallon tank that will get you anywhere, this boat comes with so many standard features that the upgrade options are somewhat limited, so Deurr gave us his advice as to what he’d personally select. “I would choose the aft bimini full enclosure for extended camping use,” advises Deurr. “A fresh water washdown would be helpful, and the exterior lighting package looks awesome at night when anchored or parked on shore or an island. The boat will run fine with any of the engine combinations offered. There is no need to run triple engines as the boat performs very well with a single 250.” If you’re interested in checking out the Encounter for yourself, it’s available for sale by any US, Canadian, or foreign Premier Marine dealer. Like Melbostad sums up, “Any boat lover has had those days when they can’t bear to say goodnight to a perfect sunset on the lake. This model lets boaters expand their summers with a place to sleep, lounge, or just get away from it all.”
Other Game Changers
We couldn’t end this spotlight without giving a deep bow to the other two heart-stopping models we saw fresh from Premier’s engineering department. One offers the ultimate family escape with a split level that includes a slide, upper lounging area, and spiraling staircase that expertly turns extra space into the patent-pending Stairway Galley. The other boasts a 12-foot-wide deck space with plush accommodations for 26 people and three roaring outboards capable of rocketing us to a top speed of 60 mph when we got behind the throttle. The 2016 Escalante and Dodici models, respectively, offer even more diversity to Premier’s remarkably diverse line of pontoons. The Escalante is, in the words of Melbostad, “the ultimate pontoon for families who love to entertain and take advantage of everything boating has to offer. It’s got all the seating, storage and convenient, luxury features to make the adults happy, along with that slide that’s just irresistible to kids of all ages.”
310 ESCALANTE SPECS LOA: 31’ 5” Width: 10’ 2” Max HP (PTX 36”): 350 hp Outside Tube Diameter: 27” Approximate Weight: 3,900 lbs Fuel Capacity: 47 gallons Total Persons (PTX 36”): 20 lower, 4 upper Max Weight Capacity (PTX): 5,200 lbs
FOR MORE INFORMATION Premier Marine 800-815-6392 www.pontoons.com
310 ENCOUNTER SPECS LOA: 33’ 5” Width: 10’ 2” Max HP (PTX 42”): 400 hp Pontoon Diameter: 27” Approximate Weight: 4,000 Fuel Capacity: 120 gallons Total Persons (PTX 42”): 16 Max Weight Capacity (PTX 42”): 5,400 lbs 310 DODICI CRUISE SPECS LOA: 33’ 5” Width: 11’ 10” Max HP (PTX 42”): 400 Outside Tube Diameter: 27” Approximate Weight: 3,975 lbs Fuel Capacity: 120 gallons Total Persons (PTX 42”): 26 Max Weight Capacity (PTX 42”): 5,400 lbs Test Engines: Triple Evinrude 300 Maximum Speed: 60 mph 0-20 MPH: 3.72 seconds
www.pdbmagazine.com
FALL 2015
Following the industry dinner and PDB Hall of Fame banquet this year, we honored Premier Marine with two PDB Innovation Awards. All pontoon and deck boat manufacturers were given the opportunity to submit boats or specific features to be considered for this award. The first Innovation Award was given for the patent-pending Ricochet Ladder System. Gas springs enable the ladder to self-retract while the boat is in motion. A safe and easier alternative to traditional swim ladders, the completely automatic Ricochet ladder requires no input from anyone onboard to operate. Premier received the second Innovation Award as well for its newly-released 310 Encounter, the first boat to combine the luxuries of a pontoon with the convenient comfort of a cabin cruiser.
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Irresistible to us, too, as it happens. Likewise, as the first of its particular kind in the industry, Melbostad says of the Dodici that they are “confident this model will wow even the most seasoned pontoon veterans.” Two models, the 290 and 310, and two layouts, the Cruise and the Pub, are currently available, and you’ll start to get a grasp for how impressive the Dodici line is when you hear that we went 0 to 20 mph in less than 3.72 seconds—and yes it literally was a breathtaking ride. We haven’t even gotten to the exceptional handling and turning, and you better believe the Dodici cut shockingly tight corners! You could say we’ve seen with our own eyes how each of Premier’s recent innovations serves as further testament to this talented manufacturer’s vision of what pontooning can become. After all, Melbostad says, “Premier has always been known for innovation. Our designers and engineers love to challenge themselves to create something new that will fill a niche in the industry.” And with the Encounter, the Escalante, and the Dodici, that is precisely what they’ve done.
Click here to see the self-retracting ladder in action.
PDB Holiday Gift Guide The end of the year is upon us again. Hard to believe, really. There I was, enjoying pleasant summer afternoons when suddenly the thought, “Don’t forget to get gifts this year” reared its ugly, responsibility-laden head. Yes, gift giving season is coming, and it’s coming fast. So, here’s my attempt at a meaningful, boat-lover’s gift guide, a little something something for everyone.
Something for the inner techie:
Liquipel Waterproofing It’s no secret that technology has become an important part of our lives. Whenever I leave my phone at home, I may as well be dead to the world. As the old adage goes, if no one on Facebook knows it happened, did it really happen at all? Electronics and water don’t mix well, as you know, and I’d bet you have a horror story or two to prove the point. That’s where a company like Liquipel comes in, offering a much-needed middle ground between not bringing any electronics and sticking them in a bulky water-tight bag. What Liquipel offers is a process that puts a liquid-repellent substance on electronic devices, inside and out. They claim their process protects from 80 percent of all liquid damage scenarios without the use of a case. While it probably wouldn’t save your phone from a phone-overboard situation, it would protect from misting and splashing that is common on the water. They have a pretty cool video on their website where they show off their product by dumping milk, champagne and soda onto protected devices. Pricing varies among devices, but phones start at $60 and tablets at $90. (www.liquipel.com)
Something last-minute:
Magazine Subscription A genuinely good last-minute gift is an incredibly difficult gift to give. Believe me, I’ve tried. Magazine subscriptions have turned out to be one of the best because they share a piece of the world you enjoy with someone else. They’re a conversation starter and a way to get your friends interested in your hobbies. Like boating, for example! A Pontoon & Deck Boat magazine subscription (hint, hint) is only $19.97 for the entire year and is a great way to get your friends excited about boating. (www.pdbmagazine.com)
FALL 2015
Something expensive:
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GoPro HERO4 Session Camera If you do anything sporting, head-mounted cameras are pretty neat, and GoPro is the go-to company for them. Nowadays, they’re also pretty affordable for what you’re getting. The GoPro HERO4 is durable and waterproof (a must for the water). It even captures full 1080p video, so your footage looks great. Even if you’re not water skiing or tubing, there are tons of accessories that would make it a really cool purchase. For example, they make extendable arms that you can use to record underwater footage. They also make a body harness that you can wear while snorkeling. (www.shop.gopro.com/cameras)
www.pdbmagazine.com
Something for everyone.
By Jake Manning
Something to eat:
MAGMA Cabo Gas Grill I can’t think of a single thing that doesn’t taste better grilled. Do you like corn? Roast it, salt it, and slather it in butter. How about steak, chicken or pork? Throw some veggies on, dice, and skewer. Bam! Delicious kebabs are easy and fun to eat. What about something different like asparagus? Wrap it in bacon and grill. You might even get the kids to like it. The MAGMA Cabo Gas Grill is this year’s pick for the something to eat category. It falls in a nice middle ground for portable grills, not too big or too small, not too cheap or too expensive. The Cabo uses standard one-pound propane canisters and puts out up to 11,200 BTUs of heat. If free standing isn’t your thing, they also sell railing mount adapters. (www.westmarine.com)
Something for the party:
Red Cup Living Products A good cup is hard to find. You can add that to your list along with a good mechanic, a good doctor, a good electrician, and a good man. But when you do find a good one, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for anything else. My something for the party selection this year is the Red Cup Living brand of products, available from West Marine. All their products are made of durable, break-resistant plastic and are reusable and dishwasher safe. Red Cup Living sells a four-pack of 5-ounce cups, a single 18-ounce version and a party bucket, perfect for keeping drinks cool. They even look the part of the classic party cup, minus the mess. (www.westmarine.com)
Something cozy:
Crocs Classic Sandal
FALL 2015
Let it be known that I’ve never claimed to be a fashion guru. If anyone tells you otherwise, feel free to show them this. In my something cozy category, Crocs win the prize. Say what you will about their looks, they’re surprisingly comfortable, exceptionally practical for being on a boat, and reasonably priced. They’re also waterproof, clean easily and float. The Crocs classic sandal starts at $34.99 and comes in more colors than most cars. Accessorize to your heart’s content, ladies and gentlemen, and stay cozy. (www.crocs.com)
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www.pdbmagazine.com
PDB Holiday Gift Guide Something for everyone.
Something for Mom:
Lagu Beach Blanket The Lagu beach blanket isn’t like any normal blanket, and it’s not very often I get excited about a blanket. So what makes it different? It’s a sand repellent blanket. How cool is that? The stuff simply doesn’t stick to it, dry or wet. When you’re done for the day, pick it up, give it a shake, and all the sand falls off. The Lagu blanket was created to counter the effects of beach erosion. Basically, every time we leave the beach, we take a little bit of sand with us. If only one person ever visited, that wouldn’t be a problem. But if millions of people take a little bit of sand—well, you can see the problem. The blanket measures 45 by 60 inches and comes in a variety of colors. Lagu blanket is sold online and at various retailers. Let beaches stay sandy and everything else not. (www.lifeonthesands.com)
Something for the kids:
Kids Snorkel Set
FALL 2015
Snorkeling can be a lot of fun and is a way for kids to explore the underwater world too. For its price and practicality, TUSA’sMini-Kleio Dive kit wins this year’s spot. The kit comes with a full-face snorkel mask, snorkel with drain chamber and purge valve and flippers. A new experience from a high-quality product at a low price is a win in my book. (www.westmarine.com)
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www.pdbmagazine.com
Something for the dog:
Welcome Home Mat: Fido’s Home Away from Home I realized early on while pontooning in northern Wisconsin that most boats don’t have bathrooms. For a 10-year-old, that was hardly a problem. Open water was all I needed. For dogs, however, that might not work as well, so why not make a spot for Fido to do his business? That makes this year’s pick for your dog a bit of do-ityourselfer, a door mat pet potty. I found one at Home Depot for about $15, but just about any retail store should carry them. You’ll have to train your dog to use that mat, as initially he might be hesitant. I hear your dog might recognize the mat as an acceptable place for business if you *cough* scent it yourself. Not that I would ever use it, but you know what I mean.
Something for Dad:
Leatherman Squirt PS4
FALL 2015
I’ve thought of something else that’s hard to find: a good multi-tool. That is, a good multi-tool that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. That’s where the Leatherman Squirt PS4 comes in. At around $40, the Squirt PS4 offers nine of the most basic tools you need, including needle-nose and regular pliers, wire cutters, scissors, flat/Phillips screwdriver, bottle opener, wood/metal file and a small knife. The Squirt PS4 is not the most extensive Leatherman out there, but you’d be surprised how often a simple tool like this one comes in handy. It’s available in three different colors and has options for personal engravings and gift boxing online. (www.leatherman.com)
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www.pdbmagazine.com
Shane Kouflie
Kenny Roberts
Rodney Boone
Shane Morrison
Y EA R I N P IC TURE S
Patrick Schoon
SaLisa Moore
Trish Sims
FALL 2015
Ben Halbert
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www.pdbmagazine.com
Ou r fa v or i te Fa ce b o o k pi cs fr o m 2 0 1 5
Eric Jones
James McBride
Tammy Viola Brewer
Now that the season is winding down, it’s time to look back and reminisce on all the good times summer brought us! Here are a few of our favorite shots our Facebook friends shared with us this year.
FALL 2015
Terri Duke
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Kelly Lamberson
www.pdbmagazine.com
PDB Days Rolls On
The Premier Dodici 310, at over 33 feet long and nearly 12 feet wide, was the talk of the dock with triple 300hp Evinrude outboards. The pontoon is capable of going 60 miles per hour and attendees voted it the best family-friendly model because of all the amenities onboard.
One-of-a-kind show invades Indiana
FALL 2015
PDB Staff
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After years of keeping our Shootout Boat Test location a secret as we rounded up all of the major pontoon and deck boat manufacturers each fall, we’ve recently discovered how much fun it is to include the public. Our once-invitation-only event has turned into PDB Days, where consumers are able to see the new models on the water before anyone else. We created PDB Days last year and because of the overwhelming positive feedback we decided to make it an annual tradition. This year PDB magazine took over Fourwinds Resort & Marina on Lake Monroe in Bloomington, Ind., for a two-day public celebration, followed by our annual Shootout boat test.
www.pdbmagazine.com
We once again invited every pontoon and deck boat manufacturer to join us at one location like we do each year.
www.pdbmagazine.com
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The Fourwinds Resort & Marina in Bloomington, Ind., provided the ideal setting for our PDB Days event.
Unlike a traditional boat show where you can look but not ride, PDB Days offers a unique experience to compare boats side by side and not just the look of the boat, but the power and performance as well. “After researching pontoons online we came to PDB Days with a plan to buy one of two specific boats that we liked,” said Dennis Sheets at the show. “But after getting out on the boats those two aren’t even in the running anymore and we have two other manufacturers that we’re now considering. Being able to get out on the water really made a huge difference in our boat buying decision.” The Fourwinds dock was packed with boats from Angler Qwest, Bennington Marine, Caravelle Boats, Crest Marine, Island Boats, JC TriToon Marine, Manitou, Premier, Qwest, Regency, Sun Tracker, Tahoe Deck Boats and Tahoe Pontoons, with most manufacturers bringing multiple boats. Plus, companies like Sideshift, manufacturer of the pontoon thruster system, and Power House, with its water bubbler, were also on the water demonstrating their products. “I heard time after time that it was great for people who are interested in buying a boat to be able to test ride the boats, especially the new 2016 models,” said PDB Days Event Coordinator Mitch Brian. “Couple that with
FALL 2015
Why We’re Different
the fact that many of the manufacturer representatives were available to talk and it was a boat buyer's dream event.” Under the large tent nearby, it was the engine manufacturers who had the biggest presence. PDB Days sponsors Evinrude, Mercury and Suzuki all had large displays including Mercury Marine’s semi truck that helped anchor the on-land exhibitors. Another event sponsor, Sunbrella Marine, was also part of the additional exhibitors that included Conrad Marine (Tap Fins), Mist-er-Comfort Misting System, Pontoon Wholesalers, Protomet/PTM Edge Watersports, SwirlyGig Industries, Thomas Docks and Vantage Resource Group.
Reader Choice Awards
Before our staff had an opportunity to test the boats, we gave attendees a chance to get out on the water and more importantly, offer up their feedback as well. At the show you could test drive these boats as well as ask dealers and manufacturers any questions you had. If you’re like most boat consumers, you’ve been to plenty of boat shows inside convention centers but there you can only look without ever knowing how they truly perform on the water. With our PDB Days show, you could see the boats and then try them out. At the end of the day, when the attendees had demoed as many boats as they could, we asked for their feedback. We asked what they liked and what they didn’t, what they wanted to see and what they would change. Then, as they left, we asked for their top picks in specific categories. We tallied up all the votes and below are the results, which came straight from the public.
Event sponsor Mercury Marine helped anchor the on-land exhibitors with its massive semi truck trailer that came loaded with several engines that were displayed during the two-day public show.
Evinrude helped sponsor the event and also had its popular (and powerful) outboards on display on water as well as under the tent.
• Best Fishing Model: Angler Qwest 820 with Suzuki 150 • Best Value Model: Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 DLX with Mercury 150 • Best Luxury: Crest 250 Continental with Mercury 250 • Best Deck Boat: Tahoe 2150 with Mercury 150
FALL 2015
• Best Performance Model: Manitou X-Plode XT with Evinrude 250
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
36
• Best Family-Friendly Model: Premier Dodici 310 with Evinrude 300 Triples “Lots of attendees who were interested in pontoon boats but had never had an opportunity to ride in one commented that they are much more stylish, powerful and performance oriented than they had thought,” added Brian. “Buying a boat is one thing; buying the right engine and accessories make the experience of PDB Days even more useful as a boater because you can talk to engine reps and aftermarket companies who are there in person.”
www.pdbmagazine.com
All attendees were given the chance to provide feedback on the boats displayed as well as vote for their favorite models in each category.
Barrel Race & Sunset Cruise
The official recap for our Barrel Race will run in the February issue of PDB magazine, but coming to PDB Days meant you had a front-row seat. We’ve been talking about this event for years, but to actually get to share it with the public was so much fun. After the race was over, both participants and attendees headed out on an evening cruise around Lake Monroe. We felt pretty spoiled cruising around the lake on a Premier photo boat that was on loan from Strait Productions. Owner Mike Menne tossed us the keys so we could video and photograph the McKainer Barrel Race and we were in no rush to return the twin Evinrude pontoon that is perfectly set up for taking photos on the water. After the cruise, we all headed back to the Fourwinds Resort to hear local recording artist Haywire, the hottest sound in Southern Indiana, perform. There’s no better way to end the first day than with live music.
Not only were there new models at the dock, attendees came from as far as four hours away just to see demonstrations like the pontoon thruster from SideShift on display.
Very Special Thanks To Our Sponsors
Providing rides on one of the four pontoons Manitou had on display paid off as the X-Plode XT earned a Reader Choice award for best performance model at the show.
Both JC TriToon Marine boats spent plenty of time away from the dock as attendees were anxious to see how well each performed.
www.pdbmagazine.com
37 PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
BoatUS once again provided loaner lifejackets so both kids and adults had an opportunity to get out on the water safely.
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Apex Marine’s Brad Lemerand (L) looks like he’s just out for a Sunday cruise, but despite the smile he really was working. Both Apex boats on display were powered by Suzuki Marine, which was one of the major sponsors of the show.
Sun Tracker Giveaway
Bruce Myers from Bloomington, Ind., raises his hands as his name is announced as the winner of the Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 DLX.
Tracker Marine once again donated a brand-new Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 DLX with a Mercury 115 on the back with a trailer to be awarded to one lucky attendee of PDB Days. We had hundreds of entries, but at the end of the show on day two, it was Bruce Myers who raised his hands in victory when his name was called. Bruce and his wife Gina are locals who came to the show to see the new models and ended up leaving with one. “I felt like we had a good chance, but you never think you’re actually going to win something like this,” said Bruce. “We’re both extremely excited right now and we couldn’t be happier with our new Sun Tracker.” Other companies like Sportsstuff, PTM Edge and Airhead made sure that others were able to walk away with prizes as well as seven other packages that were awarded in the drawing. Besides Tracker Marine, a big thanks also has to go to Fourwinds Resort & Marina, who helped us put on a first-class event by providing the ideal facility to meet and exceed our needs. We had so much fun this year that plans are already in the works for our next PDB Days event in 2016, which promises to be even bigger and better. Until then, thanks to everyone who came out to support our event, as well as our sponsors Evinrude, Mercury, Suzuki and Sunbrella. We hope to see you next year.
Bruce Myers and his wife Gina pose for a photo by their new Sun Tracker pontoon that includes a trailer and a Mercury 115 four-stroke engine.
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Mike and Nicole Farmer celebrate with their children after leaving the show with more prizes than the family could carry. Sportsstuff, PTM Edge and Airhead provided prizes in our giveaway contests.
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
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www.pdbmagazine.com
Jason and Ashley Buis celebrate with their twin daughters Monroe (L) and Paris after winning a Sportsstuff tube and pump as well as a life jacket in the drawing.
CRW400 Captive Reel Anchor Windlass Designed for Pontoon boats, Deck boats and small fishing boats with an anchor up to 22lb Strong, stylish UV-stabilised Powerful, integrated 400W motor/ gearbox Integrated controls and 30A circuit breaker for overload protection Supplied pre-fitted with 115ft of 1/4� anchor rode Strong stainless steel chassis suitable for salt-water use
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ADVERTISER INDEX WEB ADDRESS
11/11/14 3:23 PM 154802WilPon16v.indd 1
PG. #
Avalon Pontoons
www.avalonpontoons.com
48
Berkshire Pontoon
www.berkshirepontoon.com
21
Caravelle Boat Group
www.caravelleboatgroup.com
47
Crest Marine
www.crestpontoonboats.com
2
Evinrude
www.evinrudepontoonseries.com 3
Hewitt Machine & Mfg., Inc.
www.pontoonlegs.com
Infinity Luxury Woven Vinyl
www.infinitylwv.com
13
JC Tritoon Marine
www.jcpontoon.com
19
Kover Klamps
www.koverklampframes.com
20
Lewmar, Inc.
www.lewmar.com
39
Mercury Marine
www.mercurymarine.com
6
Mister-Comfort Marine Misting Systems
www.mist-er-comfort.com
23
Playcraft--Pontoon & Deck Boats
www.playcraftboats.com
23
Premier Marine, Inc.
www.pontoons.com
11
Sky Smith Specialty Insurance
www.skysmith.com
45
Southbay Pontoon
www.southbaypontoon.com
7
Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
www.suzukimarine.com
5
Tahoe Pontoons
www.tahoepontoons.com
4
Touchless Cover, LLC
www.touchlesscover.com
22
Wilson Pontoons, Inc.
www.plasticpontoon.com
39
7/20/15 1:53 PM
20
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1
39 PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
A D150012Lewmar13.indd VERTISER
19502 Comal River Drive Cypress, TX 77433 Phone: 419-675-0002 Toll Free: 877-456-2531 Email: info@wilsonpontoons.com
www.pdbmagazine.com
Welcome To The
Hall
Industry gathers for PDB Hall of Fame dinner PDB Staff In 2014, PDB magazine established its own hall of fame and inducted four members into its inaugural class. In late September, two new members were welcomed as the PDB Hall of Fame expanded to include Jim Dorris, founder and owner of PlayCraft Boats, and Bob Deputy, former president and CEO of Godfrey Marine. A private industry dinner was held to honor these two men for their accomplishments in helping build the pontoon and deck boat industry.
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Robert “Bob” Deputy
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
40
Bob Deputy’s contribution to the growth and vitality of the pontoon industry cannot be overstated. His commitment to his former company, the industry, and his community has made a lasting impression that can still be felt today and will for years to come. Godfrey Marine was the first company to build an all-aluminum pontoon boat, the Sanpan, which was introduced at the 1958 World’s Fair in Chicago, Ill. At the time, most other companies built them out of steel because it was cheaper. Godfrey took a risk in implementing more expensive aluminum because they believed it was a superior alternative. As we can see in the industry today, the gamble paid off.
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Bob was instrumental in the driving development of new technology and innovations, such as decay-resistant pressure treated wood; spacious, versatile floor plans; reliable electrical systems; and durable upholstery. “The pontoon industry today is a very mature industry,” says Bob. “When you go back to the early days, it was pretty darn small. People didn’t think much of pontoon boats; they were basically just a patio on the water. The business has changed, but what made it fun for all of us is we weren’t growing by leaps and bounds, but we were growing a little each year. It kept your interest.” Bob gives a lot of credit to his competitors for driving him to stay ahead of the curve. “You had to work hard to make sure you stayed ahead of John Cripe or the Harris family, or some of the others who were darn good companies. That competition kept you working.”
After his first 20 years of successfully building Charger Boats for a company he started, Jim began brainstorming on combining the comfort of a pontoon boat with performance. “I was getting a little older, but I still wanted to go fast and run with the big boys,” recalls Jim. “So we developed the Hydrotoon that would later be known as our PowerToon.” Jim did more than just dream; he triggered the concept of performance pontoons when he first entered the Ozark Shootout in 1995 with a newly engineered Hydrotoon. Carrying a small-block 350, extra cross members and at the time those mysterious Rac-R-Fins welded to the tubes to help lift the boat, the pontoon went 46.8 mph and stole a lot of attention away from other performance boats that year. It didn’t take PlayCraft long to begin establishing pontoon speed records, but it was surprising how quickly Jim continued to break those records year after year with even faster production models. It was in 2001 that at Mercury’s Lake X in Florida he set the record at that time with an unheard-of speed of 81 mph and in 2010 it was PlayCraft who was the first to top the 100 mph mark.
His claim to fame will always be speed and his legacy in the pontoon industry really began in 1995 with that PowerToon design that truly changed the pontoon industry. “We’re responsible for the performance pontoon,” says Jim. “We’ve taken the pontoon to a different level. With the PowerToon we gave consumers a pontoon that would perform more like a runabout. We live in the Show Me State and we showed others what pontoon boats were truly capable of when no one else was doing it.” While speed and performance are what Jim is best known for in the boating industry, it’s his connection with his family and those who have helped him get where he is today that is the most important to him. “My wife Carolyn who puts up with me, my family, my employees and all of my associates are what matter the most,” says Jim. “We have guys who have been with me 40-plus years and it’s amazing how hard they are to replace. You can’t find quality workers like you could 25 years ago. We wouldn’t be who we are today without the Ozark craftsmen who build our boats.” At some point each of his children has been a part of the success at PlayCraft and have all played a significant role in the company’s growth over the years. And of course a common bond in the Dorris family will always be racing. In fact, the next generation of Ozark racing has evolved as Jim’s grandson, JT Dorris, is now winning races. While Jim loves to be innovative and he may be best known for his role in introducing performance pontoons, it really just comes down to the fact that he simply loves boating.
Members Only
The PDB Hall of Fame now includes six total members after John Cripe, founder of JC Manufacturing and TriToon inventor; Maurice Shell, founder of Maurell Products and Crest Pontoons; Harold Shrock, former Starcraft Marine president and innovator; and Ambrose Weeres, who is credited with inventing the modern-day pontoon, were inducted last year as the inaugural class. Special thanks to Evinrude, Mercury, Suzuki and Sunbrella for sponsoring the Hall of Fame dinner and to PTM Edge Watersports for sponsoring the drinks.
www.pdbmagazine.com
FALL 2015
Jim Dorris
From L to R: Jim Dorris, Carolyn Dorris, Bo Dorris and Joe Dorris.
41 PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
During Bob’s time leading the company, Godfrey Marine grew from a small manufacturing plant into the largest family-owned independent builder of recreational boating and fishing boats in the U.S. Bob helped the company grow from one factory in Elkhart, Ind., to 13 plants in four states with more than one million square feet of manufacturing capacity. The Godfrey family of brands included such boats as Sanpan, Aqua Patio, Sweetwater and Parti Kraft pontoons, and Hurricane deck boats. Some hallmarks of Bob’s career were his dedication to product development and his commitment to relationships with employees, dealers and suppliers. He strived to create a family environment at Godfrey Marine and treated everyone, from employees to retail customers, as family. Since his retirement in 2005, Bob has stayed busy with his civic and community duties. “I’m allegedly retired, but seem to keep busier than I ever did when I was working,” says Bob. Indeed, he has spent time serving as Chairman of the Elkhart County Community Foundation, Chairman of the IUSB Advisory Board and helping lead the campaign to build the IU South Bend Elkhart Center. In 2008, Indiana University, his alma mater, bestowed upon him an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters to recognize his lifetime of community service. In the end, Bob’s philosophy can simply be described with the word “family.” According to his family, “His most enduring legacy is to treat everyone as if they were family and to remember that it’s not where you start but where you finish.”
Celebrating
B
PDB Staff Report
20 Years of PDB Manufacturers provide us THEIR feedback Before we head into 2016 we wanted to take one last opportunity to celebrate our 20th year as a publication focused on pontoon and deck boats by getting a little feedback from the manufacturers who know us best. Granted, we only chose to highlight the positive feedback (hey, it’s our party and we make the rules), but it was fun to hear what some of the top builders in the industry had to say when surveyed.
Question: Please share your thoughts on our magazine and the connection we have developed with your company over the last two decades. Answers: “We appreciate that PDB provided events and comparative analysis that no one else provided when pontoons weren’t as popular as they are today. We feel PDB contributed to the current popularity of pontoon boats.”
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–Tahoe Pontoons
“We feel we have grown alongside the PDB family, having recently celebrated our own 20th anniversary. We have shared the common industry ups and downs and have been a supporter of PDB from the beginning.”
–Chaparral Boats
–Premier Pontoons
42 PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
“Chaparral considers PDB magazine to be at the forefront of boating publications. Throughout the years, we have valued the information provided in your magazine as a source of unbiased and educational print. Everyone we have worked with at the publication has exceeded our expectations in terms of professionalism and boating knowledge. Congratulations on your anniversary and we look forward to another 20 years of working with PDB magazine.”
“We too are celebrating an anniversary, our 45th year. Lowe Boats and PDB magazine have developed a fruitful relationship that has benefits for both parties. Lowe truly depends on PDB to promote and encourage their readers to enjoy our pontoons.”
–Lowe Boats
www.pdbmagazine.com
“Pontoon and Deck Boat magazine offers reputable information for the boating enthusiast. It is always exciting to get a copy of PDB, which we immediately open to look for features and industry information.”
–Sea Ray Boats
Sun Tracker has been building pontoon boats since 1983 and we appreciate the great customer resource that was created when Pontoon & Deck Boat came on the scene. It has provided customers with a wide breadth of information from which to make their purchase decision.”
“PDB has been a tremendous asset to the entire pontoon and deck boat industry, and our hats go off to them for doing such a fine job promoting what we all love to do.”
–PlayCraft Boats
–Sun Tracker Boats
“The relationships that have been built with the staff at PDB over the past 20 years have been superb. Even though we as manufacturers had to show them the ropes when it comes to pontoons, they showed us the ropes on how to market to our industry and customer base. We look forward to another 20 years with PDB.”
–Hampton Pontoons
“Pontoon and Deck Boat magazine has helped JC become one of the leaders in the pontoon industry. We love your articles on new features, manufacturers, as well as the Shootout Boat Test issue. Your magazine has put the focus on the pontoon industry.”
–JC TriToon Marine
“PDB has always been a bridge for the pontoon manufacturers and the consumers.”
–SilverWave
“PDB has been a great partner that connects a community of people who enjoy the lifestyle that pontoon boating offers.”
–Avalon Pontoons
“We have found PDB to be an excellent publication for boat buyers to discover the unique attributes about our company and the market in general. It can be dizzying for one to attempt to learn the various distinctive aspects of each brand. PDB provides boat buyers a fair evaluation of what each builder can provide, which helps them make the best choice for their recreational investment.”
–Misty Harbor
“Since 1997, PDB magazine has been paramount to the rapid success of the Bennington brand within the segment of success which is pontooning. Customer advocacy and never-ending assessments and testing are the reasons for our success.”
–Tahoe Boats
–SunChaser, Starcraft & Sylvan
“As Caravelle entered into the pontoon segment of the boating industry, we were told repeatedly by our consultants that PDB was a MUST! They were correct.”
–Caravelle Boats
www.pdbmagazine.com
43 PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
“Since Tahoe entered the deck boat market, we have been grateful for the annual opportunity to have our products presented in the Pontoon & Deck Boat Buyers Guide. Each year the guide offers an informative and well-presented overview of the deck boat segment, aiding serious buyers in making an informed decision.”
“We have been a partner with PDB magazine for over 15 years and have created not only working relationships, but friendships. Whether it was the Shootout, boat shows, or attending our dealer meetings, we always appreciate the staff for all the hard work and time they put into presenting our products.”
FALL 2015
–Bennington Marine
“First, I want to congratulate PDB magazine on this milestone. We are new in the pontoon market and have only known everyone at PDB for a short time. However, the professionalism and personal attention that comes from meeting the staff shows you what a great organization you are dealing with. This, backed up by continued meetings or phone calls, tells you this is a company that follows through and will make a good partner for years to come.”
–Island Boats
“Like Crest, PDB magazine is very focused—it just so happens that they are focused on pontoons AND deck boats. In today’s world, with today’s consumers being everything to everybody, a ‘jack of all trades’ so to speak, is difficult to be excellent at. However, being specialized and focused allows for excellence and that is why Crest and PDB magazine have such an extraordinary relationship. PDB magazine has been pioneering and trailblazing in the pontoon segment, just like Crest. Our goals and priorities are in sync with each other.”
–Crest Marine
“G3 Boats has had the pleasure of working with PDB for many years. As a premier source of pontoon and deck boat information, PDB has been a driving force in the increased popularity of this innovation boating segment. The G3 line of SunCatcher pontoons has, without a doubt, benefited from our partnership with PDB.”
FALL 2015
–G3 Boats
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
44
www.pdbmagazine.com
“The first year we participated in a Shootout boat test it was such a big event for our company. It was our first big stage to market our compact pontoon boat concepts. Since then, a lot has changed within our company and yours. You might say Apex and PDB have grown together. It’s been exciting to be part of the crazy growth of the pontoon boat industry.”
–Apex Marine
“We love the magazine and hope to be a bigger part of it next year. We appreciate the exposure.”
–Montego Bay Pontoons
“PDB is a very reliable magazine that publishes factual tests and informs, the clearest way possible, the consumers.”
–Princecraft Boats
“We have been huge fans of the magazine, and the staff. We feel they are part of our family as much as our employees. They have helped us pioneer several products through the years and we could not have done it without PDB magazine. They have also helped make the pontoon segment of the market the fastest-growing part of the marine industry.”
–Palm Beach
“PDB magazine continues to be one of the premier magazines in our industry. They provide a great avenue to share our latest products with our current and future customers.”
–Veranda
your LIFE IS 153105SkySpe13.indd 1
3/17/15 10:09 AM
WAITING
Pontoon and Deck Boat magazine is the only source of information for all things pontoon boats in the industry. We have worked with them nearly every year since they began. The annual roundup has allowed us to work with them in person. We appreciate what they do for the pontoon industry.”
45
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PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
While we of course enjoy the compliments, don’t worry: we won’t let it go to our heads. Without the support of manufacturers as well as our readers pushing us to be better each year, we couldn’t have made it this far. Thanks for your support and here’s to the next 20 years.
FALL 2015
–Manitou
Stayin’ In ‘Toon PDB’s
B OATING
To view the full version of this column visit www.pdbmagazine.com or for digital subscribers, click here.
T I P S A N D O B S E R V A T I O N S with Sky Smith
Installing Hydraulic Steering
M
any pontoons already have hydraulic steering, but not mine. So I thought I could buy a new boat with hydraulic steering or just add hydraulic steering. Buying a new boat would be cool but expensive, so instead I saved money and added hydraulic steering to my existing boat. To begin, you need the hydraulic steering parts or kit. SeaStar Solutions (www.seastarsolutions.com) makes the most popular hydraulic steering kits and the one for the 60 horsepower engine is the BayStar package. The total conversion only took a few hours. It actually took us longer because we were taking photos and video to document it. Sometimes you need to put things back together to get a better shot of taking it apart. If you are looking at finishing a project in the shortest amount of time, I can definitely say don’t film it. In our case we probably should have hired a professional camera crew and actors, but the budget didn’t allow it. The videos are now on YouTube but be forewarned, we made them.
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WHAT YOU NEED
PDB Pontoon & Deck Boat
46
It doesn’t take very many tools to complete the install. You might need a hole saw to cut the dash area for the helm unit and a 5/16-inch drill bit for the helm mounting bolts. The kit includes the mounting template to place on the dash to use for drilling and cutting. You will also need a handful of combination wrenches for installing the helm, tubing and cylinders. We also needed a 15/16 socket and ratchet for removing the steering wheel nut and a rubber mallet to help with said steering wheel. I also like zip ties to hold things in place and some sort of wrap or cable covers to prevent wear on the tubing from rubbing the deck or any edges. Read the instructions a couple times and look at the pictures. I don’t think they were the most detailed instructions, but overall it was pretty easy to understand.
www.pdbmagazine.com
10 BASIC STEPS
Remove the steering wheel. Getting the center cap off could be the most difficult part, but once you pry the cap off (without scratching or nicking it), remove the nut and lift off the steering wheel. Remove the mechanical helm. This will require access to the backside of the “dash” and loosening and removing the mounting bolts or nuts. Once done, you can slowly lift the old helm unit out if there is enough cable movement, or you may need to disconnect the mechanical cable first. Once the old helm is removed, disconnect the mechanical steering cable from the engine and slowly pull it down through the floor and under the boat from the rear. Since I was already under the boat, we ran the BayStar hydraulic tubing from the rear of the boat, above the pontoons and up into the helm area. The tubes come with caps on each end (red and green) so make sure you leave the caps on and even add a little tape to keep the caps installed during the process. The reason for the caps is to keep junk out of the lines and to know which line is which. Before connecting the lines you need to make sure the helm unit is ready to install. When I lined up the template, a couple of the mounting holes were on the edge of the existing opening. I added a couple of extra washers under the nuts to make sure we had a good grip area. Remember which fitting (you can use leftport-red or right-starboard-green) you connected to which color. Install the helm and tighten the nuts; it’s that easy. Reinstall the steering wheel (make sure Woodruff key is in the slot) and tighten the nut. Installing the cylinder to the outboard was pretty straightforward. I’m not going to go in detail. Just follow the installation instructions to mount the jack plate to the steering arm and the support brackets in the transom mount. Biggest issue is clearance when you tilt the engine.
Install the lines to the cylinders. You might need to cut off excess line. But make sure the routing of the lines clears during turns and when tilting the engine. Make sure you get the correct line to the correct side. This is important. If you hook them up backwards the steering will be backwards Filling and bleeding the lines. The kit comes with a threaded fitting to attach to the fill port on the helm reservoir. Once it’s threaded in, connect the other end of the tube to the cap on the bottle of hydraulic fluid. The vacuum created by the sealed circuit won’t let you fill the reservoir so you need to punch a hole (SeaStar provides a small pin for that) in the bottom of the bottle. This allows the fluid to drain into the reservoir. Bleeding the lines and cylinder takes a second person. Where the lines attach to the cylinder are two bleeder screws. One person will open the bleeder valve while another person turns the wheel in one direction to pump fluid into the lines and cylinder. The person at the bleeder valve needs to tighten the valve when the fluid stream is steady with no air bubbles. Then do the other valve the same way. It took nearly one bottle of fluid to fill and bleed the air out of the system. The BayStar kits (for one engine up to 150hp) can be purchased around $500 on sale. If you have a smaller boat or you have an older boat that doesn’t have hydraulic steering it is a simple cost effective upgrade. Plus if you install it yourself you can save a few more dollars. Was it worth it? Yes! What a change in maneuvering and docking. Sky Smith, PDB Staff Writer
Scott “Sky” Smith is the author of “Ultimate Boat Maintenance Projects” and an independent agent insuring boats, custom vehicles, drones and aircraft nationwide. Sky@SkySmith. com. Follow on Twitter @scottskysmith.
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