Great Lakes Boating Jul/Aug13

WHERE

BOATERS

GO

FOR

NEWS

August 2013

showcase

Classic Gems

ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM KIDS greatlakesboating.com Display until September 15, 2013 $5.95 US $5.95 CAN

FREE

&

BOATING

INSURANCE BASICS

Boat Ad p52

Sheboygan INVITES you

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

The diversity and range of boats on display is well worth your time and effort.

The boating season is now in full swing, and the 4th of July is one of the busiest times of the year. We hope you’re enjoying the summer and treasuring your days on the water. Never forget that recreational boating is one of our nation’s most enjoyable outdoor recreational activities, so enjoy it whenever you can.

This issue offers a series of contrasts. On the one hand, we delightfully recall the golden days of boatbuilding, when wood, not fi berglass reigned supreme. On the other hand, we present a stark reminder about one of the most serious problems plaguing safe boating: alcohol and boating. It’s not a new message, but it’s one boaters shouldn’t forget.

Clayton, N.Y., may not be a familiar spot to many Great Lakes boaters, but to anyone who appreciates the craftsmanship that went into making recreational boats in the first part of the 20th century, it is “nirvana.” Clayton is home to the Antique Boating Museum (ABM), which houses the premier watercraft collection in North America, if not the world. It recalls a simpler time when artisanship was held in high esteem. It evokes the names Gar Wood, Hacker, and Chris-Craft when they were synonymous with the best of boat building.

Our associate editor visited ABM in May and was impressed. He was struck by both the quantity and quality of recreational boats in the museum’s collection. For classic boating enthusiasts who hesitate to make the journey to the Thousand Islands region because of its remoteness, he says don’t wait.

04 GLB | July/August 13

Our story on ABM begins on page 14 and shows just a few of the “timeless classics” at the museum.

With more than 300 boats in its stunning collection ranging from the one-of-a-kind floating Victorian mansion named LaDuchesse, a 106-ft. long houseboat that was built more than 110 years ago and served as the summer vacation home of George Boldt, who owned the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City, to the indigenous St. Lawrence skiffs that played a big part in the legacy of boating in this area, ABM is a “can’t miss” visit.

In stark contrast to the boating nostalgia of Clayton is the article written by the U.S. Coast Guard that begins on page 24. Its message is quite clear: boating and alcohol don’t mix. The author reminds us that one bottle of beer on the water is equivalent to three bottles on land. While the most common cause of boating accidents is boater inattention, the most common cause of boating fatalities is boating under the influence.

In addition to these main features, we also have stories on kids and boating, marine insurance basics, and how to avoid electrical shocks at your docks and marinas. Our destination spotlight is Sheboygan, Wis., and its transformation into a transient stopover because of its navigable river, epicurean delights, and entertainment district.

WHERE BOATERS GO FOR NEWS Publisher & Editor in Chief F. Ned Dikmen Managing Editor Karen Malonis Associate Editor Jerome A. Koncel Contributing Writers Michael Baron Molly Rienerth

Graphic Design Mila Ryk Andrea Vasata

Advertising | Sales Inquiries Neil Dikmen p 312.266.8400 • f 312.266.8470 e info@greatlakesboating.com

GREAT LAKES BOATING® Magazine (ISSN 1937-7274) ©

2013 is a registered trademark (73519-331) of Chicago

Boating Publications, Inc., its publisher, 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

For editorial inquiries, contact Great Lakes Boating Magazine at 1032 N. LaSalle, Chicago, IL 60610 p 312.266.8400 or e kmalonis@greatlakesboating.com.

Great Lakes Boating Magazine is available online at greatlakesboating.com and at any of the distribution centers and newsstands in areas surrounding the Great Lakes. Postmaster should forward all undelivered issues to Great Lakes Boating Magazine, 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

All manuscripts should be accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope. Great Lakes Boating Magazine is not responsible and will not be liable for non-solicited manuscripts, including photographs.

Great Lakes Boating Magazine does not assume

And peruse our editorials. We educate you about the limited role the IJC has in dealing with low water levels. We inform you about National Ocean Policy Coalition, the only organization speaking for boaters to the National Ocean Policy leaders.

liability or ensure accuracy of the content contained in its articles, editorials, new product releases and advertising. Inquiries may be directed to the authors through the editorial office. Products, services and advertisements appearing in Great Lakes Boating Magazine do not constitute an endorsement or guarantee of their safety by Great Lakes Boating Magazine. Material in the publication may not be

Have a great summer and safe boating to all!

reproduced in any form without written consent of the Great Lakes Boating Magazine editorial and executive staff. Past copies may be purchased by sending a written request to the offices of Great Lakes Boating Magazine. For reprints contact: FosteReprints, p 800.382.0808 or f 219.879.8366.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

24 OTC

MISS 1000 ISLANDS II

FEATURES

FEATURES • TIMELESS CLASSICS • ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM • SHEBOYGAN, WI • Children and Boating

LENGTH: BEAM:

10 14 18 28

BUILDER:

18

SPOTLIGHTS

30’ 7’2” Hacker Boat Co.

POWER:

Chrysler Crusader V-8

DONOR:

Art Yarah

Few boats say “1000 Islands” more than the mahogany runabout.

Designers such as Gar Wood, Chris Smith and John Hacker, who created runabouts that went fast and could turn heads, popularized this truly American variety in the early years of the 20th century.

SPOTLIGHTS DEPARTMENTS DEPARTMENTS • INSURANCE QUESTIONS • BUI • SEA-DOO • ULTIMATE FISHING TOWNS • ELECTRICAL SAFETY

22 24 26 32 33

IN THE NEWS IN THE NEWS • GREAT LAKES • FISHING • MARINAS • NATIONAL • SAILING

34 38 40 42 44

• PUBLISHER’S NOTE • EDITORIALS • NEW PRODUCTS • BOAT CARE AND FEEDING • EVENTS CALENDAR • MARINE MART • ADVERTISER INDEX

04 08 46 48 50 52 52

Read

GRE AT L AKES BOATING on your tablet or smartphone

visit: greatlakesboating.com

VISIT NOW! SUBSCRIBE ADVERTISE VIEW VIRTUAL MAGAZINE

GreatLakesBoating.com

06 GLB | July/August 13

GREAT LAKES BOATING FEDERATION NEW IMPROVED MOBILE FRIENDLY! GreatLakesBoatingFederation.com

In the early 1980s, Morgan Marine on Lake George, N.Y., purchased the rights to the famous Hacker name and began building new boats after the original designs. The construction of the triple-cockpit mahogany Miss 1000 Islands II was based on the designs of John Hacker. In 2012, Hacker-Craft donated their time to restore the vessel for the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, N.Y. ABM houses the premier collection of recreational boats, engines, and artifacts in the United States. It holds an antique boat show each year drawing classic boating enthusiasts from all over the country. This year’s show will be held from Aug. 2 to 4.

While there for the show, or at any time during the season, visitors can enjoy the pleasure of going for a ride on Miss 1000 Islands II.

Antique Boat Museum 750 Mary St. Clayton, N.Y. 13624 www.abm.org

EDITORIALS

No Remedy For Water Woes It’s no secret that water levels in the Great Lakes have been

The IJC doesn’t have any leverage to solve Great Lakes water

falling, much to the chagrin of boaters, sportsfi shermen,

issues, so boaters shouldn’t look to the IJC to do so. The IJC

businesses, and even residents. Lakes Michigan and Huron

will do research and evaluate options, but it has no power

recently reached all-time record low water levels, and boaters

to take direct action against threats to the Great Lakes.

have been feeling the strain. Docks are unusable, and many

Moreover, it has not shown strong support for the multi-

boats have even run aground in shallower waters. Looking to

billion dollar recreational boating industry. Accordingly,

solve these problems, boaters and other concerned citizens

boaters would be better off looking to federal, state, and

have turned to the International Joint Commission (IJC),

local governments.

hoping it would take action to deal with low water levels.

Unfortunately, the IJC has limited authority and resources, and while it can help with managing water levels through research and recommendations, expecting it to solve water level woes is not realistic.

Local and municipal governments have authority to deal with issues that face their respective communities. A city or township may not be able to raise water levels across Lake Michigan, but it can make marina repairs/modifications and implement other methods of dealing with changing water

The IJC was created in 1909 by the Boundary Waters Treaty, in which the U.S. and Canada agreed to form a body to monitor and regulate the Great Lakes and other boundary waters.

Because the Commission has jurisdiction over the entire region, it’s understandable that people tend to view it as an authority and expect it to resolve important issues.

What most people don’t know is that the Boundary Waters Treaty only allows the IJC “to examine into and report upon the facts and circumstances of the particular questions and matters referred.” These reports are merely recommendations, and do not mandate any action. For example, the IJC recently reported that a plan to regulate St. Clair River flow “warrants

levels on a local scale.

State and federal agencies, such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), are another resource for dealing with the challenges of the Great Lakes. These agencies can perform major projects, such as dredging, to rectify the low water levels. But they are not dredging recreational boat harbors due to a lack of funds.

So, if you want someone to deal with low water levels on the Great Lakes, don’t turn to the IJC, but do ask that your elected representatives dedicate more money and authorize the USACE to perform dredging of recreational boat harbors.

more research,” and said in another report that citizens must

In short, while the IJC provides valuable insight and expertise

“adapt to changing water levels.”

on Great Lakes issues, it cannot solve all problems at once, nor

Although such comments can be helpful in determining what to do about a given problem, they do not in themselves solve those problems. The U.S. and Canadian governments are still responsible for using these recommendations to enact policies regarding the boundary waters and take action to

in enough time. Boaters should seek out their federal, state, and local representatives and urge them to take appropriate action. Get involved, and don’t hesitate to contact local and municipal governments, state representatives, and congressmen and senators to voice your concerns.

combat threats to the Great Lakes.

Agree? Disagree? Want to Comment?

Email your thoughts to letters@greatlakesboating.com

08 GLB | July/August 13

National Ocean Policy Coalition Is The Voice Of Boaters In July 2010, President Obama issued an Executive Order

and content of marine planning will be decided by the

calling for the federal implementation of the National Policy

regions themselves.”

for the Stewardship of the Ocean, Our Coasts, and the Great Lakes, otherwise known as the National Ocean Policy (NOP).

The problem with this explanation is that it contradicts the recommendations of the Executive Order, which do not

The NOP is now underway and lacks input from the

provide for such flexibility. Indeed, the Final Plan says that

biggest users of the Great Lakes, recreational boaters and

where states in a region decide not to participate on a Regional

sportsfi shermen. The only organization speaking out for these

Planning Body, federal agencies “will identify and address

users is the National Ocean Policy Coalition (NOPC), of

priority science, information, and ocean management issues

which the Great Lakes Boating Federation is both a member

associated with marine planning as described in the Executive

and ardent supporter. Here’s what it’s facing.

Order.” In short, trust the government to help you.

The NOP requires, among other things, the incorporation of

Since the NOP could have a serious impact on recreational

“ecosystem-based management” (EBM) into environmental

activities in the Great Lakes, users want to have a say in how

planning and review processes, the creation of a “Regional

it’s decided. Unfortunately, there is no formal way of providing

Planning Body” comprised solely of government officials, and

advice to the NOC. The only formal advisory body to the

the development of a “Coastal and Marine Spatial Plan” for the

NOC is the Ocean Research Advisory Panel, and it does not

eight states that border the Great Lakes.

have any members representing Great Lake interests. Th is is

The Obama administration describes EBM as a “fundamental shift” in how the federal government manages ocean, coastal,

unacceptable, especially because the NOP explicitly covers the Great Lakes.

and Great Lakes resources. Good luck trying to determine what

NOPC is the only organization speaking out on behalf of

this means and what its impact on marine activities will be.

recreational interests in the Great Lakes and beyond. Th is

With regard to Coastal and Marine Spatial Planning (CMSP), the Executive Order says that CMSP “identifies areas most suitable for various types or classes of activities in order to reduce confl icts among uses, reduce environmental impacts, facilitate compatible uses, and preserve critical ecosystem services to meet economic, environmental, security, and social objectives.” Various stakeholders, including the

broad-based coalition has raised concerns with the NOC about the uncertainty that this initiative is causing among those who rely on ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources. The Final Plan’s failure to acknowledge the economic engine that is powered by Great Lakes recreational boating and fi shing activities is a slap in the face to the 4.2 million recreational boaters and 1.6 million sportsfi shermen in the Great Lakes.

U.S. Department of the Interior, have likened CMSP to

With the NOP continuing to proceed forward while ignoring

marine zoning.

the voices of recreational boaters, we urge you to support

The National Ocean Council (NOC) is overseeing the implementation of the NOP and recently released its Final Implementation Plan (Final Plan). In seeking to address concerns over CMSP, the Final Plan notes that Regional Planning Bodies will not be established in regions where states decide not to participate, and that the “scope, scale,

NOPC’s efforts. The best way to do this is by contacting your federal, state, and local representatives and the NOC and telling them this new federal effort to manage, “protect,” and zone the Great Lakes region is harmful to Great Lakes recreational interests, and that proceeding forward without them is simply not right or just.

greatlakesboating.com | 09

Timeless Classics he Antique Boating Museum in Clayton, N.Y., is home to North America’s single largest collection of recreational boats and artifacts. It houses more than 300 unique and beautifully preserved boats, and the ones pictured on the following pages are just some of them.

T

Length Beam Builder Power Donor

10 GLB | July/Augus t 13

40’ 7’ Hutchinson Boat Works Chrysler V-8 Cleveland E. Dodge, Jr. and Joan Dodge Rueckert

WILD GOOSE 1915 The Hutchinson Brothers Boat Works in Alexandria Bay, N.Y.,

Wild Goose. For 80 years she served as a family launch for

built Wild Goose in 1915 as a high-speed launch for island

the Dodge family, who devoted much time and conscientious

commuting. Frederick Lovejoy, her original owner, named her

service to the careful maintenance of the boat throughout its

Onondaga III and used her to ferry passengers to and from

life. The open forward cockpit was added in 1938 to make the

his home in Westminster Park on Wellesley Island, N.Y. The

boat easier to manage.

Onondaga III was a very fast boat for her time, powered by a 150 hp Sterling engine.

Cleveland E. Dodge of Grindstone Island and Wild Goose

In 1991, the vessel was completely restored and led the Parade of Boats at the annual Antique Boat Show held in Clinton, N.Y. She was restored again between 2011 and 2012.

Island, N.Y., purchased the boat in 1928 and renamed her

greatlakesboating.com | 11

ZIPPER 1974 Zipper was designed for the Purdy Boat Company of Port Washington, N.Y. Though drawn in the 1930s, the boat was never built. In 1974, brewery magnate John W. Stroh finally commissioned Staudacher Yachts of Kawkawlin, Mich., to construct the craft. While remaining faithful to the original design, Staudacher utilized modern construction methods and gave Zipper a strong, “screwed and glued” double-planed hull with vertically-scarfed mahogany planking on steam-bent oak frames. Zipper is a commuter yacht, representative of a type that was popular from the 1920s and ’30s and used by New York tycoons to travel between Manhattan and Long Island.

Today, Zipper serves as the flagship of the Antique Boat Museum’s in-water fleet. Visitors can rent out the vessel for either dinner or sunset cruises along the St. Lawrence River. Contact the Antique Boat Museum for more information.

Length Beam Builder Power Donor

12 GLB | July/Augus t 13

41’6” 10’6” Staudacher Twin Crusader V-8s Louise S. Stroh

TEAL 1988 Gar Wood Custom Boats, owned by the Turcotte brothers of Brant Lake, N.Y., are among the finest craftsmen now building mahogany runabouts to traditional designs, in their case, by the legendary Gar Wood. Their faithful reproductions utilize the original lines enhanced by wood-epoxy construction technology and modern power plants. Thus, the seamless hull is strong and resistant to the limitations of traditional boat construction.

Teal is designed after Gar Wood’s 1938 triple-cockpit runabout. Its seats are upholstered in luxurious dark red leather that matches the original Gar Wood style.

The boat’s hardware is crafted from molds constructed from the original fittings. Richard Munro, the president of Time Inc., owned the boat and donated it to the museum.

Length Beam Builder Power Donor

28’ 7’2” Gar Wood Custom Boats Chrysler Crusader V-8 Richard Munro

MISS CUT-AWAY 1936 A group of clever and capable museum volunteers decided to creatively restore a small Chris-Craft runabout to show how it was constructed. The vessel chosen for the project was a duplicate in the collection and well-suited for a demonstration model that would help visitors understand special terminology and view construction details up close and personal.

The team removed selected sections of the vessel’s exterior planking that allowed observers to view portions of the interior framing and construction details. Each detail of the exposed construction is labeled to identify the parts of the boat’s construction.

Additionally, portions of the exterior are varnished and painted while other portions were purposely left unfinished to show how neglected wood can be effectively restored.

Her name reflects the numerous open sections of her hull, deck and transom planking.

Length Beam Builder Power Donor

16’ 5’8” Chris-Craft Chris-Craft model B55 hp Frank Maxon

greatlakesboating.com | 13

NOTHING OLD ABOUT THIS MUSEUM

By Jerome A. Koncel

I

f your vision of an antique boat museum conjures up

it houses 270 boats, 30 runabouts, 87 inboard engines, 145

images of musty smelling storage sheds housing old and

outboard engines, 18 Chris-Craft, 6 Gar Wood, 4 Lyman, and

rotting boats gathering dust and spider webs, then you’re

9 H.H. Rushton boats. It has a modern campus that consists

in for a real treat when you visit the Antique Boating Museum

of 10 modern buildings (91,774 sq. ft.), including 30,074 sq.

(ABM) in Clayton, N.Y. There’s nothing old about this museum

ft. of exhibit space and more than 60,000 sq. ft. devoted to

except its unique and beautifully preserved collection of

programming and administrative space. It holds an antique

recreational boats, engines, and artifacts from the old days of

boat show every year bringing together enthusiasts from all

the 20th century.

over the country, and this year’s show (Aug. 2 to 4) marks the

No matter if you’re an admirer of antique boats, a boater who’s

49th consecutive one.

passionate about all things boating, or simply an individual

ABM is spread out over 4.5 acres and includes exhibit

who has an inquisitive nature and a deep appreciation of

buildings, boatbuilding areas, docks, a library, and a gift shop.

history, ABM is for you. It’s dedicated to the preservation,

It has an outlying storage building where it houses more than

collection, and celebration of boats and related artifacts,

200 boats, engines, trailers, and even a training simulator that

while also working to advance the public’s understanding

was used to train seaplane pilots during WWII. But ABM is so

of boating’s role in the cultural history of North America in

much more...

general and the St. Lawrence River in particular.

A tour of ABM’s exhibit halls reveals a blend of old, antique,

The definitive history of boating in the United States is still

classic and miscellaneous boats, and maybe even a few

to be written, but a visit to ABM recalls all that is, was, and

wooden boats that are unique. The exhibits tell stories of long

will be good and worthwhile about boating in the early and

journeys in small boats, of St. Lawrence skiffs that anyone

middle decades of the 20th century. One of the main reasons

from the 1000 Islands region treasure and even revere, and

this museum exists is so that boaters will never forget the

of canoes and paddles whose design and craftsmanship

artisanship and craftsmanship that went into designing and

remind anyone of times long ago when cars and interstates

building a boat during these times.

didn’t exist.

THE OVERVIEW

The quantity and quality of the boats displayed in the museum are significant, although boaters have been prone to argue

ABM houses the premier collection of recreational boats,

about what constitutes a run-about or a utility or the different

engines, and artifacts in the United States, if not the world.

models of “skiffs.” For its purposes, ABM uses the common

From a statistical viewpoint, ABM’s collection is impressive:

terminology used to describe a boat built by the Chris-Craft

14 GLB | July/Augus t 13

Jim Scherzi

while its numerous bedrooms, staterooms, and second floor Grand Ballroom illustrated the best of European woodworking and Victorian design. But it’s just one exhibit, and ABM is so much more...

The “Quest for Speed” Exhibit hall revs up everyone’s instincts as soon as they walk through the doors and spot the boats and engines both on the floor and hanging from the ceiling. It’s a tribute to the builders of the 20th century, their designs and their theories as to what made boats go fast. If there’s one surprise to visitors of this building it’s that no one has broken the boating speed record of 317 mph set more than 30 years ago.

In addition to ground floor exhibits, ABM’s major exhibit hall has a second floor that contains administrative offices, educational conference rooms, boardrooms, and a small library that has become a trusted and respected resource for those people interested in restoring and renovating old boats.

It’s here where 4th graders from the local public school show off their research on boats, boating, and the St. Lawrence River. It’s also here where the staff gathers and discusses how ABM presents itself to the public.

Corp. as a Chris-Craft or one built by the Gar Wood Boat Division of Gar Wood Industries as simply a Gar Wood.

The 20 staff members, 20 seasonal employees, more than 150 volunteers, who donated more than 12,000 hours in 2012 alone, and 28 board members who makeup ABM all share a

As for deciding what makes it into the museum’s collection

common passion for all things boating, and their boating spirit

and what doesn’t, that decision is left up to Emmett Smith,

is both exuberant and contagious. ABM may be the display

the curator, who handles telephone calls, emails, and even

case for recreational boating’s history, but its short-term and

anonymously dropped off boats, engines, and artifacts.

long-term vision is so much more...

Smith’s role is a difficult one, trying to determine which boats to keep, which ones to renovate, and which ones to ship off to auction or trash. It’s Smith’s responsibility to answer three vital questions: What are the important boats of the 20th century? Is this one of them? What’s its condition?

THE MORE The more manifests itself in the quantity, quality, and diversity of ABM’s permanent collection of recreational boats that expands each year. Considered to be one of the most

THE CONTENT Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat tourist, ABM’s

complete collections in the world, ABM doesn’t rest on its laurels, but rather challenges itself to become more complete, more comprehensive. The museum brings together what

collection of recreational boats will impress you. The largest member of the collection, LaDuchesse, is a one-of-a-kind boat. The 106-foot long houseboat was built more than 100 years ago (1903), was once owned by George Boldt, the owner of the Waldorf Astoria in New York City, and has accurately been described as a Victorian floating mansion because of its mahogany trim, gold trimmed ceilings, and Victorian furniture. In the early decades of the 20th century, Boldt hired barges to move the houseboat around the Thousand Islands area and anchor it anywhere in the area where he felt his summertime home would be a place for fun, relaxation, and watersports.

Currently undergoing renovation, this houseboat’s kitchen, refrigerator and cooking area were way ahead of the times,

greatlakesboating.com | 15

vast pool of potential supporters who know nothing about the museum, its history, and will never visit Clayton to fi nd out. “If they won’t come to us, then we should go to them,” Hager said. “Expansion to other markets is both desirable and inevitable.”

To the south are the legends of boating whose history and contributions to recreational boating are both well known and all too soon forgotten. The South and southeastern U.S. became “the home of boatbuilding” in the later part of the 20th century and into the first decade of the 21st. This area is home of some of the great icons of boatbuilding, from cigarette boats to houseboats, from racers to cruising fishing boats. The multi-function boats of today owe their heritage to the builders in this part of the country.

To the west sits one of the most famous hotbeds of can best be described as “game-changers” in the history of

boatbuilding in the 20th century, that being Michigan and

boating whose contributions should never be forgotten.

Wisconsin, the homes of Gar Wood and W.L. Hacker. It’s no

And the more here is that nearly every one of them has

secret that these men had a significant impact on boating

been freely donated.

and boat-building, and that their admirers want to establish

The more manifests itself in the energy and enthusiasm of

its prominence into perpetuity. The north woods of Wisconsin

ABM’s staff. Take for example educator Julie Broadbent,

and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan wouldn’t mind housing

whose love for kids from toddlers to teenagers and infectious

tributes to these men.

enthusiasm for all things boating are immeasurable. Asked to describe what she does, Broadbent smiles and says, “I’m doing what I’ve always wanted to do. I’m bringing my love of

THE FUTURE ABM’s mission of collecting, preserving, and celebrating

boating and the boating lifestyle to the kids and families of

boats is going quite well right now, but its future looks to

Clayton, the 1,000 Islands region, and the universe.”

expansion and exposure to a much wider audience. Before

The more reflects itself in the tireless dedication of Lora

that happens, everyone is invited to Clayton, N.Y., a tour

Nadolski, who joined ABM nine years ago, and is currently

of ABM, and a time to step back and recall the glory of

responsible for the Museum’s public programs. Prior to

bygone days.

joining ABM, Nadolski was a high school teacher, who had spent her summers on a nearby island with her family.

She’s as concerned with offering programs to meet the needs of the Clayton residents as she is in meeting the needs of her river neighbors in Canada. There may be a border between the two countries, but Nadolski doesn’t see it. She only envisions all-encompassing programs that “bring boating to people wherever they’re living.”

The more shows up when Frederick H. “Fritz” Hager, the Museum’s executive director, talks about his long-range plan called “Vision 2020” that seeks to take ABM’s mission of collecting, preserving and celebrating boats to a much wider audience. “Our long-term future can well extend beyond the 1000 Islands,” he said.

Hager is convinced that ABM must be concerned with all things local, while at the same time establishing itself as a nationally recognized nautical museum. As he looks at how to achieve this goal, Hager points out that there’s a

16 GLB | July/Augus t 13

Antique Boat Museum 750 Mary St. • Clayton, N.Y. 13624 • www.abm.org

so much, so clos e

I

n the midst of these distressing times, it’s comforting

most of them never get off the ground because of a lack of

for boaters and sportsfishermen to realize that a gem

funding. It wasn’t until recently that sufficient funds were

exists along the western shores of Lake Michigan that

allocated for a dredging project that eventually removed

offers deep, navigable waters: Sheboygan, Wisconsin. For

400,000 cubic yards of silt and contaminants from the river,

years Sheboygan has been the well-kept secret of fresh-water

resulting in a cleaner, deeper, more navigable boating river.

surfers and competitive sailors. It now wants to be the home for all boaters and anglers.

THE PROJECT

Before the winter freeze of 2012, Sheboygan completed an $80 million dredging and habitat restoration project, opening the harbor and Sheboygan River to more easily navigable boat traffic. This project was the culmination of many years

Sheboygan is a city of 50,000, home of the nation’s only

of effort by the City and County of Sheboygan, the Federal

freshwater training center for Olympic sailing, and the 25-

EPA, and many federal and state agencies to remove the

year host of the Midwest’s largest freshwater surfing event,

Sheboygan River and Harbor from the “Area of Concern

the Dairyland Surf Classic. With miles of open beaches,

(AOC) List.” Sheboygan is one of only two destinations on the

it is understandable why surfers call it the “Malibu of the

AOC list of 30 to be remediated since the 1986 U.S.-Canada

Midwest.” It is also known as the “Bratwurst Capital of the

Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement was signed.

World,” a title gained by a judge’s decree in 1970. Today, Sheboygan is pushing to become known as one of the Great Lakes’ most convenient boating destinations.

“Finishing this project took the effort of many people and departments and is truly a major accomplishment. We hope other areas on the Great Lakes can accomplish the same

In the early years of the 21st century, many boaters stayed

thing to keep our economies and recreational opportunities

away from the city because it was known as one of the most

growing,” said Chad Pelishek, Sheboygan’s director of

contaminated rivers in or near the Great Lakes. Although

planning and development.

the city had great dining and wonderful beaches, transient boaters passed by it because the low water levels of the Sheboygan River made navigation a difficult task.

CURRENT STATUS Sheboygan now offers not only a cleaner, more enjoyable

The city and the county were aware of the navigation problem

river and harbor, but also deeper, more navigable waterways

and proposed efforts to rectify the situation. Unfortunately,

with more recreational options for boaters. When this project

18 GLB | July/Augus t 13

was combined with the state-of-the-art Harbor Centre Marina

staff, full service floating docks, uniformed night watchmen,

and the addition of megayacht facilities for larger boats, it

spotless tile showers and restrooms, on-site mechanical

appeared that Sheboygan had enough going for it to solidify

service and winter storage, wireless internet access (WiFi),

its reputation as a great boating destination. But the City

a fish cleaning station, cable TV, a convenience store, deli

of Sheboygan went one step further. It added convenient

and ships store, laundromat, and tennis courts. Sheboygan’s

courtesy docking throughout its Harbor Center Entertainment

Harbor Center Marina leaves little to be desired.

District, allowing boaters to access all kinds of fun from shopping and dining to waterslides and mini-golf just down the shore from the marina.

In addition to the newly dredged river, Sheboygan added megayacht facilities and ample courtesy docking for boat traffic throughout the River’s entertainment district. It’s

Sheboygan’s Harbor Center Marina offers boaters a home away from home, a place with all the amenities they would come to expect and many they wouldn’t imagine.

Location is an important asset for any marina and Harbor Center is conveniently located in a beautiful park and beach setting. In addition, it has a private swimming pool, whirlpool and comfortable boater’s lounge to meet the needs of all boaters.

Harbor Center Marina boasts of its competitive transient slip pricing starting at $1.75 per foot for daily or $1.50 per foot for weekly stays. Other features include a happy and helpful

greatlakesboating.com | 19

goal is to bring Great Lakes boaters to the area and have

One of the real surprises about a city the size of Sheboygan

them call Sheboygan home, if at least for a few days. “The

is that it is an incubator of amazing culinary offerings most

depth and facilities are tremendous assets when you talk to

people would not expect from a relatively small city. “We may

boaters about their plans and needs,” said George Twohig,

not have as large a skyline from the water as some of our

communications director for Sheboygan Tourism.

counterparts on Lake Michigan,” said Betsy Alles, executive

“Sheboygan’s location along Lake Michigan’s western shore and its easy in-and-out access make it both the perfect final destination and stop-over for any boater on Lake Michigan.

director of the Sheboygan County Chamber, “but our offerings for visitors and residents can go toe-to-toe with any other city you will find.”

Our intention is that the Sheboygan stop-over gets extended

If your travels lean more toward the family outing,

an extra day or two, just to get a feel for what this area has

Sheboygan’s Blue Harbor features a 54,000 sq. ft.

to offer.”

entertainment area and indoor waterpark. Mini-golf is available just off the South Pier courtesy docking and

SHEBOYGAN’S RIVER DISTRICT Sheboygan’s Harbor Centre District is easily accessible by boat or foot from the Harbor Center Marina, and there are plenty of things to do here.

Couples often enjoy dining on the decks of the Blue Harbor Resort while watching kite surfers float above the waves or Olympic-class sailors race along Sheboygan’s south beach.

They can also enjoy dinner downtown at one of many worldclass restaurants. After dinner, visitors can listen to live music as Sheboygan offers free performances for its residents and guests throughout the summer.

Sheboygan’s downtown features hands-on experiences for kids of all ages—even those with grey hair—at the Above and Beyond Children’s Museum. Family dining options are featured throughout the Downtown, South Pier and Riverfront offering something for every taste.

If shopping is on the schedule, Sheboygan has many unique boutique-style shops. Everything a person might want is just a few steps off the water. Whether it’s replenishing staple items, sending gifts to those left behind or taking a spell off the water for some pampering, Sheboygan is a can’t-miss destination on Lake Michigan’s shores. w w w.visitsheboygan.com

20 GLB | July/Augus t 13

Jocelyn Augstino/FEMA

for

By Molly Rienerth

T

here are many questions prospective new boat owners should ask themselves, but one of the most important involves their insurance options. Just as new boat owners have taken the time and spent the effort to research boats before buying one, they also need to spend the time to educate themselves about the various insurance coverage options for their new vessels.

Boats carry distinct risks, such as unforeseen harsh weather, unexpected changes in terrain and equipment malfunctions that requre unique coverage. As a result, not every insurance carrier will insure a boat. Moreover, boaters should seek an insurance agent that specializes in recreational insurance as the best resource for outlining insurance options and

WHAT IS THE AGE THE BOAT ?

AND

VALUE

OF

The age and value of the boat will define the different policies that might be available. To make an informed decision, boaters must understand the different options:

ACTUAL CASH VALUE POLICY is the primary settlement option used for automobile policies and is applicable to boats. This settlement option means that if the boat (or car) is totaled, the policy will pay the insured the current market value at the time of the loss. In other words, this type of policy takes into account the normal depreciation of a boat’s value. This is occasionally the only available option for older boats or can be the best fit for someone looking to carry minimal coverage. It can also be the best means for insuring a classic, potentially appreciating unit.

proposing the best solution for each boater’s needs.

TOTAL LOSS REPLACEMENT/PURCHASE PRICE COVERAGE will replace the boat with a brand

Before speaking with an agent, boaters should ask

new one of the same make and model from the newest model

themselves the following four questions to help determine

year released at the time of loss, regardless of the original

which insurance is right for them.

boat’s depreciation. After five model years, this insurance

22 GLB | July/Augus t 13

option no longer offers a brand new boat, but rather will settle

of a possible breakdown or piracy and/or terrorism. In some

a total loss at the buyer’s original purchase price, inclusive

instances, insurance carriers even offer a rider for a one-time

of tax, tags and title. Total loss replacement coverage is

offshore trip as long as they are notified beforehand.

available only to the original purchaser of a new, untitled boat.

AGREED VALUE COVERAGE can be purchased in lieu of “total loss replacement/purchase price coverage” for the purchaser of a used, previously titled boat. In the event of a total loss, the agreed value coverage entitles the policyholder to the full amount of value at the time the policy was originally

ARE BOATERS ELIGIBLE FOR ANY INSURANCE DISCOUNTS? There are many different ways for boaters to receive insurance discounts, so they should be sure to mention some of the following discounts:

purchased. Typically, this policy will be the best fit for

“RESPONSIBLE DRIVER”: A clean automobile record

customers who purchase used boats or who have already

may provide a discount on boat insurance. The thinking here

owned their boats for more than a full year.

is that a good automobile driver will probably be a good

HOW IS THE BOAT GOING TO BE USED?

captain, too.

The type of boat individuals purchase and how they plan to use their boats will further determine insurance needs.

Most boaters expect their boat insurance to cover damage,

OWNERSHIP E XPERIENCE:

Similar to automobile

insurance, age and experience matter when it comes to insurance rates. With boat insurance, the more experienced the boater is, the better the rate is.

theft, bodily harm, and liability to others, but there is an

BOATER SAFETY COURSE: Boaters may receive

array of other coverages available. For example, hull

a discount after they have successfully completed a boater

insurance coverage includes extras such as trolling motors

safety course administered by their respective state, the U.S.

and electronics. However, for a fisherman, the owner

Coast Guard, or the U.S. Power Squadron. Further discounts

might consider “replacement cost fi shing equipment” that

are also available for persons enlisted in the U.S. Power

covers the cost of any gear that gets lost, is damaged in

Squadron and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Boaters holding

an accident, or gets stolen. If the boater is a competitive

a captain’s license are eligible for even greater discounts.

fi sherman, he might want “tournament fee reimbursement” coverage that reimburses prepaid tournament entry fees

SAFETY EQUIPMENT: The use of safety equipment,

in the event the boater misses or leaves the tournament

such as vapor detection devices, GPS systems, EPIRBs,

because the boat is or becomes inoperable due to a

or ship-to-shore radios on a boat may also get the owner a

covered loss.

significant discount.

When it comes to usage, boaters should be sure to have their

MULTI-POLICY DISCOUNT:

insurance agent tailor the policy to their specific needs. If the

insurance policies with other insurance policies, no matter

owner trailers the boat, the individual may benefit from having

if they’re auto, motorcycle, RV, ATV, or home, the owner

roadside assistance. In addition, if the owner regularly stores

will likely get a discount on both. Besides, if one company

skis, wakeboards, or scuba equipment on the boat, “personal

offers a great rate on marine coverage, then it’s safe to

effects” coverage will be important. Some carriers even offer

assume that the same company will be competitive for

“pet injury” coverage for those who cast off with their dogs or

other insurance needs.

cats aboard.

WHERE ARE THE OPERATORS GOING TO DO MOST OF THEIR BOATING? Most boaters on the Great Lakes will qualify for significant discounts if they do all or more of their boating here. On the other hand, if the boater plans to boat in the Gulf or ocean coastal areas, miles off-shore or across international

By packaging boat

REFLECTION When it comes to buying and operating a boat, it is always important to remember that an educated boat owner is a protected one. Those owners who will take a few moments to evaluate their insurance needs and work with a marine insurance specialist to get the right coverage for their boating lifestyles will be the happiest ones because their insurance coverage will allow them to enjoy their vessels for years to come.

waters, the individual may find it necessary to have an extended navigational territory option (up to 125 miles

Molly Rienerth is senior general agent of Veritas Insurance Group,

off-shore) because of the increased chance of harsher

Inc., Saint Petersburg, Fla.

weather conditions (e.g., hurricane force winds, hail, other windstorms, and currents) and to protect against the perils

greatlakesboating.com | 23

Alcohol Water Don’t Mix AND

By Mike Baron United States Coast Guard Division of Boating Safety

G

ood company, fair weather, and a few rounds…

boating may result in the same decreases in motor skills and

some boaters feel that a drink enhances their time

cognitive abilities as two or three drinks on land.

on the water. The serenity of the water, the lack of

traffic lights and the absence of speed limits contribute to the illusion that operating a boat on the water is safer and less demanding than the highway.

THE FACTS Alcohol use also poses some special concerns for boat operators and passengers. The use of alcohol is involved in

In reality, the marine environment is more taxing and

about a third of all boating fatalities. Falling overboard and

challenging than typical driving conditions. The average boater

being in capsized boats are the most common fatal accidents.

generally has far less operating experience than the average

Alcohol dilates blood vessels, causing a false sensation of

driver. Boat operations are more demanding than driving an

warmth and making an individual exposed to cool or cold

automobile because boats have no brakes operators must

water much more susceptible to hypothermia.

compensate for currents, winds, and waves and navigating around other vessels can be complex. Boaters must constantly remain alert for other vessels with widely disparate capabilities and maneuverability—often sharing the water with kayakers, powerboats, sailboats, and personal watercraft, as well as swimmers, water skiers, and tubers, and commercial craft.

Wave action, glare from the water, and motor vibrations all increase demands on the boater, causing fatigue. Moreover, these factors have been shown to intensify and speed the effects of alcohol consumption, so that a drink on the water may cause more impairment, more quickly than it would on land. Physical exertion while boating and the resulting dehydration also increase alcohol’s affects. One drink while

24 GLB | July/Augus t 13

Alcohol and water don’t mix, so having a “designated operator” who abstains is smart. But it’s also important that passengers don’t overindulge for the safety of all aboard.

Here are a few tips for responsible passenger consumption: • If people want to include alcoholic drinks as part of their time on the water, they should plan a picnic or party ashore.

• Serve hearty snacks or a meal with soft drinks and water.

• Measure wine and liquor in mixed drinks to make sure you aren’t super-sizing portions.

• Use juices rather than carbonated beverages for mixers (carbonation speeds alcohol absorption).

Drinking afloat affects boaters more quickly than on land Would you ride on a boat if you knew the captain had a condition that simultaneously: • Encourage passengers to alternate non-alcoholic beverages with alcoholic drinks.

• Ask passengers if anyone is taking over-the-counter or prescription drugs, including medications commonly used for motion sickness, because they can interact with or accelerate and intensify the effects of alcohol.

• Stop serving well in advance of returning to the boat to allow the affects of alcoholic beverages to dissipate. Check specifically on the status of those passengers who will be drivers at the end of the outing.

THE CONSEQUENCES Law enforcement takes BUI as a very serious offense. Federal law and most states use the same standards of impairment for boat operation as for driving. The federal limit is .08 percent Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) for intoxication. However, boating authorities may charge an operator with boating under the influence with a lower BAC if they observe signs and indicators of impairment.

• Makes it difficult to see, including decreased night vision, problems differentiating red and green lights, and possible tunnel vision • Impairs depth perception and one’s ability to judge distance • Causes loss of balance • Slows reflexes and significantly increases reaction time • Impairs coordination, reducing manual dexterity • Decreases attention, concentration, and the ability to multi-task • Seriously impairs judgment and decisionmaking ability • Impairs memory and the ability to think clearly and logically

field sobriety tests that allow accurate assessment of

• Creates a sense of euphoria that increases the likelihood of risk-taking and dangerous behavior

intoxication without requiring an individual to return to shore

• Causes drowsiness

Many states and jurisdictions are implementing new, seated

and perform the field sobriety tests there.

The consequences for BUI can be severe, including steep fines (which are often multiplied if a minor is aboard) and significant jail time. Increasingly, BUIs can affect one’s driving record and cause suspension of driving privileges, just like

These are all documented effects of alcohol consumption, and impairment begins with the first drink. When it comes to boating and alcohol, remember that there’s no “safe” threshold for alcohol use when operating a boat.

DUIs. And any serious injury or death resulting from a BUI can result in felony charges.

greatlakesboating.com | 25

YOUR OTHE R CR AF T

nce you’ve moored your vessel at the location of

The key to this greater control is Sea-Doo’s intelligent brake

your dreams, the question becomes: How do you

and reverse (iBR) technology. By positioning the brake and

get from the boat to the harbor? There are many

reverse levers directly on the watercraft handlebar, Sea-Doo

O

answers to this question, but one that every boater should

gives operators greater control. And riders can automatically

consider is the Sea-Doo watercraft.

start the Sea-Doo in neutral, meaning they can keep their

The Sea-Doo watercraft is the choice of many boaters

hands on the handlebars throughout the ride.

because of its maneuverability, control, and versatility when

Because an emergency can crop up at any time, Sea-Doo’s

on the water. It is a multipurpose watercraft that provides

iBR braking system, which allows operators to stop up to 100

quick transportation to and from the shore, while also being

feet sooner than any competitor’s PWC, is very important.1

able to tow family members on an inflatable tube.

1

26 GLB | July/Augus t 13

Based on BRP internal testing. Traveling at 50 mph (80.47km/h).

It gives riders complete confidence that they can stop the PWC in any emergency.

When it comes to selecting a Sea-Doo watercraft, BRP offers different lines for every type of rider and use.

• Sea-Doo’s GTX line combines the most advanced technologies available with luxury-minded features.

• For those people whose idea of fun is to use their personal watercraft to make tight turns, cut corners, and be the first to

• If catching air on the perfect wake or towing kids as they hold on to their tubes is a fun day on the water, then a SeaDoo Wake watercraft is a good choice.

• If recreation and value are prime considerations, the SeaDoo Recreational watercraft segment is the answer.

Whatever one’s needs and style, Sea-Doo has a watercraft that will complement an individual’s riding style. w w w.sea-doo.com

cross the finish line, BRP designed its Muscle Craft segment.

greatlakesboating.com | 27

KIDS & BOATING

By Jerome A. Koncel

K

ids + Parents + Boating are a natural summer

The first thing parents and adults need to remember about

combination. The iconic image of kids and parents

kids and boating is that helping youngsters enjoy their time

enjoying a day on the water is one that recalls a simpler

on the water and keeping them safe onboard is a full-time job.

time, when parents, not coaches, taught their kids the basics

Kids are naturally rambunctious and impulsive, and it’s up to

of boating and showed them the joys it can bring.

parents to take certain precautions to rein in their energy and

These lasting images recall those words that many of today’s

keep them safe and secure.

boaters uttered when they were asked, “What brought you

Before leaving the dock, boaters should make sure their

to boating?” Their eager reply, “It was the many summer

kids know the rules of the ride and the importance of

afternoons we spent on the water with our family.”

boating safety. Never underestimate the importance of

In our fast-paced, demanding daily lives where everyone is always busy going places, seeing people, and doing things, time spent on the water with family and friends may be considered “priceless.”

THE ESSENTIALS

this educational effort. Being in a boat on the water is an inherently unstable situation. It’s up to parents to teach their kids about this situation and why it is essential that kids follow safe boating practices.

Pre-planning a boat trip on the Great Lakes begins with explaining the importance of boating safety. Although parents

Although boating with children is a fun time, keeping kids

and older adults may be the most logical choices for teaching

safe before, during, and after their time on a boat requires

kids about boating safety, there are other options available,

some planning. As Carl Blackwell, vice president of marketing

including classes offered by the U.S. Power Squadron, the

for the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA),

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA), and even boat dealers.

points out in the “Grow Boating” chapter on Boating with Children, “Pre-planning helps ensure that time spent on the water is fun and educational—and will encourage your children’s love of boating to grow into a hobby the whole family can enjoy for years to come.”

With that background, here are some tips to help parents enjoy and have fun with their children while boating.

28 GLB | July/Augus t 13

Of paramount importance when boating with kids is the wearing of lifejackets. This is not an option—it’s a mandatory requirement. Lifejackets should fit snugly and have a collar that will turn the child’s face up if he/she goes overboard.

Although some parents think it’s OK to hand on lifejackets from one youngster to another, the reality is that while it may seem to be a good idea, it has a major drawback—kids are

constantly changing in their physical appearances. What was a good fit last year will probably be too small this year.

Although lifejackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs) are designed to ensure that young boaters feel safe and confident while on boats, parents shouldn’t make the wearing of a lifejacket feel like a punishment. One way to do this is by involving kids in the purchase of a lifejacket. Parents can ask their youngsters for help in choosing a lifejacket that is comfortable, comes in bright colors, and maybe even has a design. It’s also a good idea to attach a plastic whistle to the lifejacket and teach the youngster to blow into the whistle in case of an emergency.

So, at what age should parents begin to teach their children about boating? There’s no specific answer to this question because kids are never too young to learn the basics of boating safety. If two-year olds can learn a foreign language, then they’re also old enough to learn about safe boating practices. The instruction should include words, pictures, and hands-on demonstrations. In the case of wearing PFDs, repetition is important, including time demonstrating how kids

An often-overlooked tip for boaters and kids is this one: don’t forget the sunscreen. Although this is a personal safety concern rather than a safe boating practice, parents must emphasize to their kids the importance of wearing sunscreen.

Moreover, it is almost a universal rule among kids under 10 that they’ll never put sunblock on themselves. It’s up to the parents to apply an adequate sunblock before going on the boat and to refresh the sunscreen depending on the heat and the number of hours on the water,

should operate their lifejackets in emergency situations.

BOATING PROCEDURES

As youngsters become older, parents can give them more

If boating really is an activity for the entire family, then parents

responsibilities in loading the boat, using the equipment on

should get their youngsters to feel comfortable with being

board, and informing them of the location and how to use

on the water and boating. In this regard, knowledge about

emergency equipment. For example, parents can show their

boating skills and terminology is essential. Teach kids about

kids where fire extinguishers and first-aid kits are located and

boat handling, docking, basic knot tying, “Rules of the Road”

how to use them. One safety procedure that any youngster

for boaters, and so forth.

can learn is how to steer the boat in an emergency. By the time these kids become teenagers, they’ll be able to know, understand, and follow safe boating practices.

What’s the best age for teaching kids about boating and boating safety? There’s no time like the present. Using the proper nautical terminology is important for both adults and

Kids being kids, they’re bound to complain about their

youngsters, so teach them about the difference between

lifejackets. The jackets are either too heavy, too cumbersome,

starboard, port, forward, and aft. They’ll need to know what

or too hot to wear on warm summer days. In these situations,

these terms mean because they are applicable to any boat.

parents must consider their youngster’s feelings, but also be firm in not allowing their children to remove their lifejackets at any time while on the boat. The one rule that parents and adults should clearly state to kids is this: Lifejackets must be worn at all times because no one knows when an emergency may occur.

Comfort also comes from following the best practices. Here are some basic ones: • Tell kids and make certain they keep their hands and feet inside the boat at all times.

• They should also know how to properly balance a boat by keeping equal weight on both sides of a boat.

• There is no running around while on a boat. Because a boat can be slippery when wet, running can cause children to fall on deck or overboard. Running can also destabilize smaller vessels.

As youngsters get older, that is 10 to 12 years old, parents might ask their youngsters to join them in taking Boating Safety classes or encourage them to attend age-specific classes. For example, the USCGA touts boating as a natural bonding activity between parents and kids, so it offers several programs to help children learn about safe boating. For kids

greatlakesboating.com | 29

a recreational activity that everyone can enjoy, so bring some bait and poles, for all on board.

The most important thing to remember about taking your kids out for a day of boating is to have a positive attitude and employ a fun approach, Warren notes. Exposing youngsters to fresh air, sunshine, marine life and the environment will offer plenty of bonding time for everyone.

WATER SPORTS And discussion of kids and boating must include water sports, of which waterskiing and wakeboarding are the two between the ages of 4 to 9, the USCGA offers “Boating Fun.”

main ones.

For 10- to 12-year olds, USCGA presents its Waypoints class, which is designed specifically for this age group. To find out

Waterskiing can be a fun family sport, but as with boating, the

the availability of classes and the nearest locations, visit the

caveat is that everyone involved in the sport, whether on the

USCGA website: www.usgcaux.com.

boat or on the skis, should know how to ski safely. So, at what age should kids be taught how to water ski? A review of the

When it comes to boating safety, there’s one warning that

literature and discussions with parents reveals that kids can

must be mentioned today that wasn’t in the boating lexicon as

learn how to ski as young as 2, 3, or 4 years of age. Although

late as two or three years ago. It’s the use of cell phones in an

age is an important factor, a more important factor is their

emergency. Every kid carries a cell phone or mobile device

muscle tone and balance.

with them and will dial 911 in case of an emergency. On boats, however, kids should be taught that an EPIRB (Emergency

Whether it's waterskiing or wakeboarding, kids should always

Position Indicating Radio Beacon) rather than a cell phone is

wear lifejackets, and not just any lifejackets. It is parents'

the tool of choice in case of an emergency. Parents should

responsibility to ensure that their kids' lifejackets fit snugly.

explain to their kids that cell phones may get out of range

The next important thing to remember is that the equipment

or die out and that EPIRBs will send out clear sounds to

the kids will use in their respective water sport be “kid-sized,”

emergency stations.

and not for adults. The size and design of waterskis are

FUN TO DOS

different for kids than for adults, and the same thing holds true for wakeboards.

In the “Discover Boating” chapter dealing with kids, Jane Warren, the chapter’s author and outdoor water sports

As for wakeboarding, parents should follow the 3Bs, that is:

enthusiast, urges parents to make boating a fun and

board, boots, and binding. Select the proper board, the right

enjoyable experience, one that strengthens the bonds

size boots, and the proper binding. Introducing your child to

between parents and kids. To do so, she recommends the

wakeboarding may just be the right answer for what makes

following tips:

that family trip to the lake a fun time.

PACK A COOLER—Everyone, both young and old, should

REFLECTION

be involved in packing the cooler for the boat trip. Be sure

Kids and boating are a natural get-together during the

it includes plenty of beverages to keep everyone hydrated.

summer season, a time for strengthening those bonds that

Water and juices, as well as ice pops, yogurt cups, and fresh

make family life so fun and enjoyable. The most important

fruit, are refreshing on hot, humid summer days.

key to keeping both parents and youngsters coming back for

BRING A CHANGE OF CLOTHES—The motto for taking

more enjoyable days on the water is boating safety.

kids on boating excursions is “better safe than sorry,” so

All photos cour tesy of U.S. Coast Guard

bring along an extra change of clothes. Kids have tons of energy, and packing an extra set of clothes allows them to be active without worrying if they’re getting their clothes wet. A swimsuit should be packed away so that kids can have some fun splashing around in the water. The change of clothes will allow them to be dry for the remainder of the cruise or ride.

PLAN ACTIVITIES—Take time to plan activities that will engage kids while out on the water. Simple items such as a snorkel and diving mask can provide hours of fun. Fishing is

30 GLB | July/Augus t 13

ULTIMATE FISHING TOWNS Port Colborne

Thies Bogner

T

Point Breeze

Bruce Landis

he World Fishing Network (WFN) announced Port

then populated with videos, photos, and written comments

Colborne, Ontario, Canada and Point Breeze on Lake

to promote the community’s candidacy and reinforce why the

Ontario, N.Y., as the winners of its “Ultimate Fishing

town is deserving of Ultimate Fishing Town honors.

Towns” of 2013 contest.

Port Colborne is part of the Niagara Region of southern

For winning WFN’s contest, each town will receive a

Ontario. It is located on the north shore of Lake Erie where

$25,000 community donation that is to be used for fishing-

the species are numerous. Between the Welland Canal and

related causes. In addition, they were honored in separate

the Niagara River, Port Colborne’s waterways are world-

ceremonies hosted by WFN’s Ultimate Fishing Town host,

renowned. Big names like Bob Izumi love to fish these waters,

Mariko Izumi. Finally, WFN will also produce a video feature

as do tournaments like the 444 Walleye Tournament, the

about the great fishing both of these Ultimate Fishing

Can-Am Invitational, and the past Pro Am Bass Tournament,

Towns offer. This video will be presented on-air and online

to name a few. Port Colborne faced strong challenges from

throughout the year.

Gananoque and Campbellford in the Ontario region, and fewer

WFN is North America’s only television network, online and mobile platform dedicated exclusively to fishing and

than 100 votes separated Gananoque from Campbellford as the Ontario regional winner.

outdoor enthusiasts. Its programming covers instruction,

“The World Fishing Network’s designation of the City of

tips, tournaments, travel, food, boating, outdoor lifestyle,

Port Colborne as Canada’s Ultimate Fishing Town validates

and more.

Niagara’s South Coast as a fishing hotspot,” stated Mayor

In addition to naming the two winners, WFN presented

Vance Badawey.

regional winners with a $3,500 community donation with

Point Breeze on Lake Ontario, N.Y., a small locale in Upstate

the goal of bolstering fishing-related causes in each of the

New York, led all U.S. vote getters. Point Breeze is formed

respective communities. Regional winners were: Gananoque,

where the Oak Orchard River flows into Lake Ontario and

Ontario; Hampstead, New Brunswick; The Pas, Manitoba;

offers outstanding fishing year-round, with species including

Waddington, N.Y.; Cape Hatteras, N.C.; Cocodrie, La.; Grand

brown trout, salmon and steelhead.

Lake, Colo.; Grand Rapids, Minn.; and Bridgeport, Calif.

“We are a small fishing town elated to win the title of Ultimate

About 700 towns in the U.S. and Canada received nominations

Fishing Town,” said Sharon Narburgh, Point Breeze resident

and were eligible to advance in the quest to become the next

and town nominator. “We have a unique small town with many

Ultimate Fishing Town. Participants were asked to nominate

needs for our fishery and are thankful to our residents and

those towns that were the best places to fish. Town walls were

anglers for their diligence in voting.”

32 GLB | July/Augus t 13

PREVENT Deadly

S

afe Electricity, a program of the Energy Education

becomes energized because of electrical malfunction will

Council, advises boat and dock owners to prevent

trip the GFCI or the circuit breaker.

deadly shocks from occurring by checking their

boats and docks.

• Even if a dock’s electrical system has been safely installed and inspected, neighboring docks can still present a

July 2012 was a particularly bad month for such fatal

shock hazard. Ensure that neighboring dockside electrical

accidents. A 26-year-old woman was swimming in the Lake

systems comply with the National Electrical Code and have

of the Ozarks and was electrocuted when she touched an

been inspected.

energized dock ladder. Also at Lake of the Ozarks, a 13-yearold girl and her 8-year-old brother received fatal electrical shocks while swimming near a private dock; officials cited an improperly grounded circuit as the cause. In Tennessee, two boys, ages 10 and 11, lost their lives while swimming between houseboats on Cherokee Lake, the result of on-board generator current apparently entering the water through frayed wires beneath the boat.

• A professional electrical contractor should perform all electrical installations.

• Because docks are exposed to the elements, their electrical systems should be inspected at least once a year.

Safe Electricity reminds all swimmers that if they feel a tingle, they should avoid metal ladders and objects and get out of the water the best and quickest way possible. Boaters

An important step in preventing such tragedies is to ensure

and anglers should be aware of their surroundings and

proper installation and maintenance of boat and dock

potential overhead electrical hazards and keep at least 10 feet

electrical equipment. Molly Hall, executive director of Safe

between their boats and nearby power lines.

Electricity, advises, “Take the time to inspect all of the electrical systems on or near the water. You wouldn’t put your boat in the lake with a leak in it, so make sure all other aspects of the boat and its operations are safe.”

Safe Electricity, in conjunction with the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers/National Electrical Contractors Association, recommends that: • At a minimum, all electrical installations should comply with articles 553 (residential docks) and 555 (commercial docks) of the 2011 National Electrical Code, which mandates a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) on all

When it comes to a boat’s electrical system, particularly those with alternating current (AC) systems, follow these tips: • Instead of calling a neighbor/electrician friend for advice on how to install something, call an ABYC Electrical Certified Tech. There are some big differences between a house and a boat.

• Household wire is not suitable for use on boats as houses are motionless and generally dry. Even marine-rated wire that is not supported along its length will break with constant motion stress.

• Do NOT use wire nuts or splice connectors! Wire nuts are

dock receptacles. A GFCI measures the current in a circuit.

for solid conductor wire, which should never be on a boat,

An imbalance of that current, such as a discharge into the

and splice connectors cut wire strands.

water, will trip the GFCI and cut off power.

• The GFCI should be tested at least once a month or per the

• Fuses are rated to protect the wire, not the stereo. If a fuse blows continuously, it should NOT be replaced with a larger

manufacturer’s specifications. The GFCI should be located

one just to keep it from blowing again—something else

somewhere along the ramp to the dock so it can be easily

is wrong.

found and tested by local fire departments as needed.

• The metal frame of docks should have “bonding jumpers” on them to connect all metal parts to a ground rod on the shore. This will ensure that any part of the metal dock that

A boat’s electrical system should be checked at least once a year. Boats should also be checked when something is added to or removed from their systems.

SafeElectricit y.org // abycinc.org

greatlakesboating.com | 33

Great Lakes

MUSEUM COMMEMORATES BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE The Toledo

One of the prominent works on display will be the heroically

Museum of

scaled painting “Perry’s Victory on Lake Erie” (1814) by

Art (TMA) will

Thomas Birch. The painting depicts the battle moments

commemorate the

before the British squadron surrendered to the victorious

200th anniversary

Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry in the fall of 1813.

of the Battle of

Another highlight of the 2013 exhibition is TMA’s portrait of

Lake Erie with a

Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry (1818–28) by Gilbert and

special exhibition

Jane Stuart.

this fall.

Thomas Birch. “Perry’s Victory on Lake Erie.” Oil on canvas, 1814. Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, Philadephia. Gift of Mrs. C.H.A.Esling.

Sponsored in part by Taylor Cadillac, the exhibition is

The museum

made possible through loans from the William L. Clements

will host “Perry’s

Library (Ann Arbor, Mich.), the Library of Congress

Victory: The

(Washington, D.C.), the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine

Battle of Lake Erie,” as a free exhibition on view Aug. 9

Arts (Philadelphia), the Western Reserve Historical Society

to Nov. 10, 2013, featuring paintings, prints, sculpture,

(Cleveland), and many private collectors.

artifacts, letters, and music on loan and from the Museum’s permanent collection.

CHEMICALS IN MINNESOTA WATERWAYS Two new studies by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

chemicals widely distributed in Minnesota’s lakes. For

(MPCA) confirm that a wide variety of unregulated chemicals

example, the insect repellant DEET was found in 75 percent of

are ending up in Minnesota’s lakes and rivers. The chemicals,

the sampled lakes. One surprise was the detection of cocaine.

including pharmaceuticals and personal care products, are of concern because they have properties that can interfere with the functioning of hormones in animals and people.

The rivers study analyzed 18 chemicals at 150 randomly selected river locations. Although many of the chemicals in the MPCA studies were detected at very small concentrations,

In 2010 and 2012, MPCA sampled lakes and rivers to

such levels are of concern because they have the potential to

determine what’s in the state’s waters. “Our lakes and rivers

adversely affect fish and other aquatic organisms, even at the

are reflecting the chemicals we use and put into our bodies,”

low levels of parts per trillion.

said John Linc Stine, MPCA Commissioner.

MPCA said it plans to continue testing surface waters for

For the lake study, MPCA randomly selected 50 lakes across

pharmaceuticals on a fi ve-year basis to identify any trends

the state. The results were generally consistent with findings

that may be occurring.

from previous smaller studies that found commonly used

DOGS TO SNIFF OUT ZEBRA MUSSELS The Minnesota

Conservation offi cers Todd Kanieski and Travis Muyres

Department of

traveled to California earlier this year to learn about the

Natural Resources

country’s first program successfully utilizing mussel trained

(DNR) will be using

K-9s to prevent the spread of AIS. “A K-9 can find a mussel on

three zebra mussel-

a boat much faster than a human inspector,” said Kanieski.

sniffing K-9 teams for the first time this year to help combat the spread of this aquatic invasive species (AIS). It is only the second state to use trained dogs for this purpose, with California being the first.

34 GLB | July/August 13

The mussel detecting K-9s will also be trained in tracking, evidence recovery, firearms detection, and wildlife detection.

“Combining mussel detecting with these additional skills will add muscle to the DNR’s capabilities and efficiency in protecting the state’s natural resources,” said Kanieski.

GREAT LAKES TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® Although it began last year, the bicentennial commemoration

At each site, the tall ships will be open to the public for

of the War of 1812 will show its real fi repower in summer

viewing and feature dockside exhibits and interactions with

2013, when Tall Ships America’s bi-national TALL SHIPS

crew. Among the ships participating at a majority of the ports

CHALLENGE® series of tall ship races and public maritime

are Norway’s 210-foot Sorlandet Canada’s 72-foot brigantine

festivals sets sail throughout the Great Lakes.

Pathfinder, and the USA’s 198-foot Brig Niagara. The Niagara

In collaboration with local port organizers, Tall Ships America has scheduled visits from members of a fl eet of 25 worldclass tall ships to 22 U.S. and Ontario communities. The

was instrumental in the War of 1812 as the fl agship for Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during the Battle of Lake Erie, one of the war’s most critical battles.

festivities began on June 14 to 16 with the Brockville (Ontario)

Between ports, the tall ships have the option to compete in

TALL SHIPS® 1812 Tour and will culminate Sept. 6 to 8 with

five offshore races, one in each of the Great Lakes.

the Tall Ships® Erie event (Erie, Pa.), but not before a historic

www.tallshipsamerica.org

re-enactment of the 200th Anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie in Put-in-Bay (Ohio) on Sept. 2.

AUVs GATHER LAKE ONTARIO DATA Oswego, Rochester, and Oak Orchard, N.Y. The research will also provide information about how the thermal bar—a seasonal/spring temperature barrier—impacts nutrients in the nearshore aquatic environment.

Each underwater vehicle weighs 42 pounds, has a 6.5-foot long Iver2-580 AUV-EP42 with side scan sonar, and employs multiple sensor payloads, 10 Beam Doppler Velocity Log for bottom tracking, and EcoMapper technology for highresolution water quality monitoring. The vessel generates Two autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) were launched

data to a computer chip, including three-dimensional survey

in Mid-May into Lake Ontario to produce intensive data for

maps on such factors as temperature, turbidity, depths, pH,

analysis of nearshore-offshore interactions, fish productivity,

current, video images, oxygen levels, phosphorus/etc. levels,

changes to the lower food web, and algal abundance.

conductivity, and more.

The high-tech, remote-controlled AUVs that resemble

The research on Lake Ontario is part of the Cooperative

torpedoes were launched on separate days at Sodus Point,

Science Monitoring Initiative between the United States and Canada called for under the Clean Water Act of 1972.

PHOSPHORUS TRADING PROGRAM LAUNCHED To help alleviate high nutrient levels and algal blooms on

GLRI hopes the trading program will foster and support

the Lower Fox River Watershed in Wisconsin, a partnership

voluntary conservation action by private landowners to

between the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) and the U.S.

protect and restore priority watersheds within the Great

Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation

Lakes basin. It also addresses issues in one of the priority

Service (USDA-NRCS) is developing a phosphorous credit

watersheds identified by the GLRI for restoration.

trading program.

The Fox River is one of fi ve Areas of Concern in Wisconsin

Money for this program has been secured through USDA-

and suffers from multiple water pollution problems, including

NRCS Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funds. The

harmful algal blooms (HABs), runoff pollution, municipal and

phosphorus credit trading program is seen as a cost-effective

industrial wastewater discharges, and degraded habitats. In

approach to achieving water quality goals and increasing

most cases, HABs are caused by excess nutrients, especially

overall environmental and economic benefi ts. For example,

phosphorus, which comes from a variety of sources including

it may be more cost effective for a point source, such as a

point sources—cities and industries—and nonpoint runoff

sewage treatment plant, to pay for a credit to reduce pollution

from urban and rural lands.

from urban or rural runoff sources than to install extremely expensive equipment to treat end-of-pipe discharges.

greatlakesboating.com | 35

Great Lakes

NOAA TESTS FREE NAUTICAL CHARTS AS MOBILE APP The National

MyNOAACharts, which can be used on land and on the water,

Oceanic and

has built-in GPS capabilities that allow users to fi nd their

Atmospheric

positions on a NOAA nautical chart. With a touch of a finger,

Administration

users can zoom-in on a specific location or zoom-out for

(NOAA) recently

the big picture. Some of the important locations have been

introduced

“geotagged” into the charts so that they are readable in

MyNOAACharts,

the app. Boaters can download the app from the Google

a new mobile

Play app store.

application that allows users to download nautical charts of the Great Lakes and the U.S. coasts. NOAA said the app is only designed for Android tablets, and is only in the beta testing stage.

Because this is a test version, NOAA said it would only be available until Labor Day, Sept. 2. The NOAA Office of Coast Survey will then evaluate usage and user feedback to decide whether to release a finished version of the app.

CONSERVATION GROUPS SUPPORT PROPOSAL Four conservation groups — Save the River, Clayton; the

the increased risk of erosion under Bv7. The mayor of Sodus

Nature Conservancy; Audubon New York; and Citizens

Point, Christopher Tertinek, argued that the higher water

Campaign for the Environment — sent a joint letter this

levels allowed under Bv7 would flood waterfront properties

spring to New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo urging him to

and cause the village’s sewer infrastructure to fail.

support a new Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River management plan. Plan Bv7, a water regulation proposal submitted by the International Joint Commission (IJC), was created to replace the existing half-century-old management plan.

So far, the groups have gathered 9,170 letters and petition signatures supporting Bv7, which is an increase of more than 7,000 “support expressions” since July 2012.

Advocates argue that Bv7 is a balanced plan that takes into consideration environmental and recreational boating interests neglected under the original management plan.

“Plan Bv7 will replace over 50 years of water level management that has signifi cantly altered the lake and river’s natural processes and dramatically reduced habitat diversity,” environmental advocates stated in their letter to Gov. Cuomo.

Opposition to the proposal has come mainly from residents on the lake’s south shore, who oppose the plan because of

MORE BLUE FLAGS IN CANADA For 2013, 18 beaches and four marinas in Canada have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag eco-certification.

This internationally recognized and respected eco-label is awarded to beaches and marinas that have achieved

Ontario: Port Stanley Main Beach on Lake Erie in the Municipality of Central Elgin Grand Bend Beach • Grand Bend Marina and Port Franks Marina on Lake Huron in the Municipality of Lambton Shores

international standards in water quality, environmental management, environmental education, safety, and services.

• Bayfield Main Beach and Bluewater Marina on Lake Huron in the Municipality of Bluewater

The Blue Flag program has been in Canada since 2005 with certified beaches and marinas currently in Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec. Residents and visitors can be assured that Blue Flag certified beaches are safe and clean, sustainably managed and great for swimming.

Here is the list of the 18 Canadian beaches and four marinas that have received the Blue Flag this year: Manitoba: West Grand Beach and Grand Beach Provincial Park

• Station Beach on Lake Huron in Kincardine • Sauble Beach in Lake Huron in the Town of South Bruce Peninsula • Wasaga Beach Provincial Park on Georgian Bay • Bluffer’s Park Beach •Centre Island Beach • Cherry Beach • Gibraltar Point Beach • Hanlan’s Point Beach •Kew-Balmy Beach • Ward’s Island beach • Woodbine Beach in Toronto\

Nova Scotia: Birch Cove Beach and Dartmouth Halifax

Quebec: Plage de le’Est and Plage de l’Ouest and Plage des

Waterfront, Halifax

Cantons in Ville de Magog,

36 GLB | July/August 13

NO BOAT INSPECTIONS AT LAKE GEORGE Asian clams have invaded the clear, pristine waters of Lake

the commission’s annual boat registration fee. Under the

George in the Adirondacks, and have prompted the Lake

proposal, the fee would rise from $37.50 to $75 for an average

George Park Commission to ask New York’s state legislature

boat, along with a one-time $40 inspection fee on boats

and governor for help in passing a law requiring boats to be

entering the lake from other waters.

inspected before launching into the lake. Unfortunately, the request has fallen on deaf ears.

The time for a reactive approach to aquatic invasive species

by DEC is over, said Walt Lender of the Lake George

The state Lake George Park Commission, which spent

Association, which runs a voluntary inspection program at

more than $2 million to stop the spread of Asian clams

several launches into the 32-mile long lake with a depth of

in Lake George, but ultimately failed, has the support

200 feet. Volunteers have found invasive species on boats

of environmental groups, elected officials, and business

that were intended for launch.

leaders, but not that of the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), which questioned whether such action is needed.

“Our voluntary Lake Steward program can accomplish only so much, and Lake George’s water quality is too important to take risks anymore,” added Lender.

The Lake George boat plan requires support from the governor and the legislature to approve an increase in

GUIDE HELPS WISCONSIN ANGLERS RECOGNIZE INVASIVE SPECIES The Great Lakes Sea Grant

impacts fishing quality, as well as specific steps that can be

Network and Wildlife Forever

taken to prevent its future spread.

have produced an invasive species fi eld guide called “Invaders of the Great Lakes,” which is available from Adventure Publications in Cambridge, Minn.

Tim Campbell, aquatic invasive species outreach specialist for University of Wisconsin Sea Grant, referred to the “Clean, Drain, Dry” three-step process that anglers can use to make sure their boats aren’t harboring invasive species as they move from lake to lake. He added, “Clean, Drain, Dry is naturally where prevention starts, but beyond that, there are

The 171-page guide,

plenty of species-specific things anglers can do to make sure

complete with images

they’re not contributing to the problem.”

and detailed descriptions of Great Lakes invaders, serves multiple purposes.

Specific sections are devoted to aquatic animals, plants, and

The guide is available for distribution this summer, will be available for purchase in UW Sea Grant’s publications store, and may eventually be developed as a smartphone app.

invertebrates. Each species page details how the invader

CLEVELAND HARBOR TRASH PATROL Two specially designed boats are now patrolling and

The Upper Cuyahoga River was a particularly troublesome

removing debris and trash from Cleveland Harbor under a

spot when heavy rains hit the area, because the swollen river

$425,000 grant from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative

overwhelmed the treatment plants. To prevent fl ooding, the

to the Cleveland-Cuyahoga Port Authority.

trash-laden stormwater was diverted into the waterways.

Even as water quality improved and wildlife showed signs

Over the years, Cleveland Harbor noticed that floating debris

of returning to Cleveland Harbor, it faced a major problem.

and trash appeared after heavy rainstorms. It undertook

When heavy rains hit the area, plastics, bottles, and other

many efforts to stop this from happening, but they were

debris were fl ushed into storm drains. Some of the storm

unsuccessful. The trash posed a risk to both humans and

drains spilled their contents directly into the city’s waterways.

wildlife, so the Cleveland-Cuyahoga Port Authority sought

Others merged with sewer pipes and led to treatment plants.

two ships to patrol the harbor gathering the plastic waste and other garbage and keeping the harbor clean.

greatlakesboating.com | 37

Fishing

MICHIGAN DNR ONLY PLANTS 59K SALMON THIS YEAR Michigan DNR/ David Kenyon

reproduce naturally in Lake Michigan tributaries only throws the proportion further out of balance.

Typically, the stocking occurs when salmon fry are placed into net pens at Grand Haven Municipal Marina, a project handled by the Grand Haven Steelheaders. This year, however, the fish were dumped directly into the river.

“We’re two weeks later than normal because the river was flooded,” said Steelheaders president Roger Belter. “The fish started to smolt at the hatchery, and with the river the way it is [high levels of E-coli due to sewage dumped into the river in Grand Rapids], we don’t want to keep them in here any longer than we have to.”

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) poured just 59,000 baby Chinook salmon into the Grand River this spring. That’s quite a drop from the 175,000 salmon fingerlings that were planted here in the last two years, and the 250,000 that were planted not many years ago.

The DNR said the main reason for the reduction is the fear that the salmon are beginning to outnumber their primary prey, alewives. The fact that salmon are beginning to

Belter and several other members of the Steelheaders were on hand at the Municipal Marina to help with the planting process, only to find out that the DNR had instead done the plant at the boat launch at Harbor Island.

The consensus was that none of those on hand could remember a year when the salmon weren’t planted in the nets, going back more than three decades.

DNR RESEARCH VESSELS SURVEY FISH POPULATIONS On Lake Superior, the R/V Lake Char is employed primarily to assess lake trout populations and provides information used to generate annual lake trout harvest quotas and provide information on sea lamprey wounding.

Lake Huron surveys are conducted from the R/V Chinook and include specifi c assessments of lake trout and walleye, as well as broader fishery assessments in Saginaw Bay and the St. Marys River to evaluate fish community changes. The R/V Chinook is often paired with the R/V Channel Cat for Saginaw Bay surveys. The R/V Channel Cat also surveys Lake St. Clair and Lake Erie fish populations, focusing on walleye, yellow perch, and lake sturgeon.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

On Lake Michigan, the S/V Steelhead administers spring

announced in May that all four of its research vessels are

evaluations of adult yellow perch, whitefish, lake trout, and

back on the water, conducting annual surveys of Great Lakes

Chinook salmon populations. Later in the summer, the

fi sh populations. The surveys are designed to estimate

S/V Steelhead teams up with vessels from the U.S. Geological

relative abundance, biomass, age and growth, health, diet,

Survey and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to evaluate lakewide

survival rates, natural reproduction, and movements of fish

forage fish abundance.

in the Great Lakes.

Throughout the summer, the public is encouraged to visit

Vessels have homeports in Marquette, Alpena, Charlevoix,

the vessels and talk with the crews about fi sheries

and Harrison Township, but work throughout the lakes on a

assessment operations.

variety of lake-specific efforts.

38 GLB | July/August 13

MARKETING EFFORT TARGETS LAPSED ANGLERS The Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) has

for the participating states. The State Boat Registration

launched its State Marketing Program, a nationwide effort to

Marketing Program, initiated nationwide in 2012, includes

increase fishing license sales and boat registrations among

outreach to lapsed boaters who haven’t renewed their boat

lapsed participants.

registrations for at least one season. A direct marketing letter

The 2013 program, which is being conducted in partnership with 40 state agencies for the State Fishing License Marketing Program and 19 state agencies for the State Boat Registration

is being distributed in four more states in the 2013 campaign than in 2012, which resulted in more than 32,000 boats reregistered and $1.16 million in gross program revenue.

Marketing Program, has expanded to target more than 3.5

RBFF said it will fund both programs, with the participating

million lapsed anglers and boaters with direct marketing

states receiving all of the revenue that the programs

materials that encourage them to buy a fi shing license or

generate. RBFF provides states with customizable direct

register their boats.

marketing pieces. It also works with states to enhance their

Previous years’ programs have been very successful, according to RBFF. Since its inception, the marketing effort has brought in cumulative gross revenues of $28.3 million

overall marketing and communications capacity, as well as provide ways to improve their fi shing license and boat registration processes.

TWO MINNESOTA FISHING ORGANIZATIONS MERGE The Minnesota Fishing Museum in Little Falls, Minn., and

after the merger is completed. “Our vision is to soon share

The Fishing Hall of Fame of Minnesota in Baxter, Minn.,

physical space in the Little Falls area, creating a premier

have agreed in principal to a merger of the two institutions,

destination for families to visit as part of their outdoor lakes

according to a news release issued by the two organizations.

area experience. Together, this facility will be one of the best

Both organizations share a history of celebrating the

freshwater fi shing education experiences in the country for both youth and adults,”

traditions of sport fishing and supporting further education

Mitchell said.

of the sport with the youth of Minnesota. “The synergies of the two organizations are remarkable, and together provide

Both organizations are

a complete archive of the state of Minnesota’s contributions

committed to supporting,

to the sport felt throughout North America,” said Mavis Buker,

preserving, and recognizing

executive director for the Minnesota Fishing Museum.

the state’s fishing community, promoting a continued

Scott Mitchell, principal of Adventure Advertising and

appreciation of the sport

director of the Fishing Hall of Fame of Minnesota, stated

and its rich heritage.

that both organizations will continue to keep their own identity

MICHIGAN OFFERS FREE LICENSES TO MILITARY Active-duty military members who enlisted as Michigan

orders, or other evidence verifying that the applicant is

residents and have maintained residence status can now

a member of the military. The licenses are available at

obtain annual Michigan fi shing or hunting licenses free of

DNR Customer Service Centers and at license retail

charge, according to the Michigan Department of Natural

outlets statewide.

Resources (DNR).

Military members receiving a free fi shing or hunting

To qualify, persons must be active-duty U.S. military members

license must present the license, along with proof of

and, at the time of enlistment, must have been residents of

military status, if requested by a conservation offi cer.

Michigan and must have maintained residence status for the purposes of obtaining a driver’s license or voting. The individuals who met these requirements may receive, free of charge, a resident military all-species fishing license.

Applicants must present proof of military status when applying for the free license. Proof of military status may

In addition to the free licenses for Michigan military members, the state allows non-resident, active-duty military personnel officially stationed in Michigan to purchase all fishing licenses at Michigan resident rates.

For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/dnr.

include military I.D., leave papers, duty papers, military

greatlakesboating.com | 39

Marinas

DUBUQUE OPENS NEW MUNICIPAL MARINA

publicly accessible and an attraction for both tourists and locals. The River Museum recently opened the Mississippi Plaza, an outdoor space with animals and displays for the enjoyment of museum guests. City and museum leaders say they expect the new plaza and marina to attract boaters to the port.

The marina has 70 slips of various sizes, and they’re transient, meaning boaters can come and stay overnight. There are wastewater and fuel facilities at the marina, as well as utility hook-ups.

The marina cost approximately $4 million to construct. City engineer Bob Schiesl said $3 million came from a boating On June 1, the River Museum and city of Dubuque, Iowa, held

infrastructure grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

a joint ribbon-cutting ceremony for the museum’s Mississippi

The other $1 million came from city taxpayers.

Plaza and the city’s new public marina in the Port of Dubuque.

The city believes the riverside attraction will boost tourism by drawing people off the Mississippi and into the port’s many attractions.

The Dubuque County Recorder’s offi ce lists about one registered boater for approximately every 13 people who live in Dubuque County, according to 2010 Census numbers.

Leaders say they hope those boaters living in Dubuque and

Although the new marina is the city’s project, it’s closely tied

the surrounding area will get good use of the marina as well—

to the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium,

not just tourists.

which both share the mission of making the river more

NEW MARINA FOR BENTON HARBOR marina will contain appropriate amenities, such as running water, electricity, cable TV, and access to the hotel or future association swimming pool/clubhouse. Sixty slips will be located in the marina basin, in addition to 20 slips along the Paw Paw River and 25 transient slips in front of the restaurant.

The slips will accommodate boats from 25-feet to 120-feet in length.

Slip rental figures for the West Basin are approximately $80 per lineal foot or $3,200 for a 40-foot slip, $2,800 for a 35foot slip, etc. The marina will be in full operation for the 2014 boating season with all 60 slips available.

By this time next year, Harbor Village, a brand new resort and marina, is expected to be open for business in the Benton

The project is bringing hundreds of jobs to the area and is expected to attract tourists from all over the world.

Harbor (Mich.) area, according to Kerry Wright II, director of

Wright said that a project like this normally takes three to

sales and marketing for Harbor Shores.

fi ve years to get off the ground, but he expects the marina

Harborage marina will have 100 slips containing fl oating docks ranging from 35 to 87 feet in length and will offer 11.5 feet of water (plenty for any boat on the Great Lakes). The

40 GLB | July/August 13

and resort hotel to be up and running by the time the Senior PGA Championship, which is sponsored by KitchenAid, a local manufacturer, takes place in Benton Harbor in May 2014.

MICHIGAN TO FUND MARINA’S DREDGING Great Lakes Memorial Marina in Menominee, Mich., opened

which the city of Menominee is one of the recipients,” said

its boating season on May 15, and will begin its long-awaited

Michael Cramer, city manager.

dredging project as soon as the season wraps up in October.

The city said that all of its engineering reports, studies,

The marina has been dealing with a problem common to

and permits have been completed. It has sent out RFP bids,

many port cities—low water levels. The low water on Lake

and they should be coming back soon. It is estimated that

Michigan and Green Bay, plus the build up of silt, makes it

the city will need more than $2 million to complete the

difficult for larger boats to use the marina for docking. Larger

dredging project.

boats, or those with fi xed keels, can easily bottom out. The only practical way to solve this problem is through dredging, but the city did not have the needed funds for this project.

Jim Kudlicki, head of the Marina Management Group, which operates the marina, said he is very pleased to hear about the dredging funds. If all goes according to plan, he noted,

“Basically what the state has done is to issue an emergency

dredging would begin in October once the boating season

order and transfer funds from other operations, waterways

ends, and should be completed in December.

funds for the most part, into the emergency dredging fund in

SOUTHPOINT MARINA PLANS EXPANSION Although the marina is fully booked for the 2013 season, it urges prospective customers to lock in one of the new slips for 2014 by putting down a $45 deposit. The marina’s website (www.southpointmarina.com) adds that only a limited number of new slips will be available in 2014, and they will be available on a fi rst come, fi rst booked basis. Each slip includes free membership to the private pool and cabana recreational area.

Southpoint Marina is a deep-water marina located on Irondequoit Bay off Lake Ontario. Because the marina is the only one in Monroe County with calm and deep waters, it is especially attractive to recreational boaters.

Southpoint Marina in Rochester, N.Y., will be completing the second phase of a master expansion plan in the fall/spring

The marina currently houses boats from 16 to 47 feet in

of 2013/2014. The plan includes the addition of a swimming

length. In addition, all of its slips include free power and

pool and Cabana Club House, along with the addition of

water, along with access to clean bathrooms, showers, and

new boat slips.

a free parking lot that is well lit, safe and secure.

JEFFERSONVILLE WILL BUILD NEW MARINA Jeffersonville (Ind.) Mayor Mike Moore announced plans to

hopes to complete the marina project in time for next year’s

build a new downtown marina along the Ohio River. Noting

boating season.

that the town’s current docks are in disrepair, Moore said the new marina project will include a complete overhauling of the existing boat docks, increasing the number of slips to 64, adding a new fi shing pier that will extend 200 feet over the Ohio River, and installing a new pumpout station for boaters.

The new downtown marina will cost approximately $2 million and is one of four projects the Moore administration is proposing as a part of its “Pathway 2 Progress” initiative.

The city has received two grants for $153,343 to help fund the project.

Moore wants to make sure that existing dock owners are not displaced during the construction. “It’s important that we take into consideration those people who currently utilize the docks. Their needs and suggestions are vital if we are going to have a marina for everyone to enjoy and be proud of.”

The city expects the new marina to provide an economic boost for the city’s downtown area. Transient boaters will be allowed to dock and shop, dine, and explore downtown Jeffersonville. Moore adds that the fishing pier will be an exciting addition to the riverfront.

“The marina is a redevelopment project. It will transform our riverfront into a destination point,” said Moore. He

greatlakesboating.com | 41

National

NATIONAL RIVER CLEANUP® SEASON AJ Brucks

Over the past 20 years, more than one million National River Cleanup volunteers have removed 13 million pounds of litter from rivers across America.

Healthy rivers provide major benefits like clean drinking water, habitat for fish and wildlife, and opportunities for fishing, boating, and other recreation. Communities nationwide are protecting and restoring their rivers to boost economic growth and quality of life. Unfortunately, millions of tons of trash—including trash bags, old appliances and tires—end up in rivers and streams each year. River cleanups help turn forgotten streams into community assets once again.

American Rivers has kicked off the 2013 National River

Visit www.AmericanRivers.org/Cleanup to learn more about

Cleanup, a program that mobilizes volunteers across the

National River Cleanup, fi nd a river cleanup or organize

country to clean up trash from local rivers and streams.

a cleanup,

`

SPRING BOAT SALES SLUMP Recreational boat sales slipped in April for the third month

With one month to go in the spring selling season, dealers

in a row as the spring selling season continued to be

reported an industrywide drop of 8.1 percent to 42,710 boats.

very disappointing, according to a May 20, 2013 article in Soundings Trade Only Today.

Sales of 11- to 40-foot outboard fi berglass boats managed a slim gain of 40 in April, but the 14- to 30-foot inboard and

The article cited Statistical Surveys Inc.’s April survey results, which reported a 5.2 percent decline for April industrywide boat sales in the 30 early-reporting states at 15,824 boats.

Last year, with all 50 states reporting, sales totaled 26,130 in April.

sterndrive category saw sales fall 12.6 percent to 1,044 boats.

Sales in the bigger-boat categories were more encouraging.

The 31- to 40-foot cruiser segment was up 11 boats to 116, while sales of 63- to 99-foot custom and semi-custom yachts were up four at 25. Sales of 41- to 62-foot yachts fell by fi ve

Builders blamed poor sales in March on chilly, wet early spring weather, but the weather improved by the end of April, leaving no easy answer for why sales continue to lag.

boats to 75.

Sailboat sales rose for the second month in a row, climbing 18.6 percent to 249.

USPS PARTNERS WITH BOATUS FOUNDATION Two boating education

members of USPS, US Coast Guard Auxiliary, Great Lakes

organizations have

Cruising Club and, for a limited time, BoatUS members.

teamed up to offer a fully interactive online seminar for those First Mates who may find themselves needing to take command of the family boat. Partner in Command, from the US Power Squadrons (USPS), in partnership with the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety, aims to acquaint the First Mates with basic skills they may need in an emergency. The seminar is now available online at www.usps.org/edonline. The cost is $70 or $55.30 for

42 GLB | July/August 13

The US Power Squadrons’ partnership with the BoatUS Foundation aims to increase the accessibility to boating education courses by tapping into the Foundation’s expertise at presenting engaging and effective course materials for online study at home. Partner in Command is just the fi rst seminar to be put online. USPS have more than 30 advanced courses and seminars taught by local squadrons that will be made available online in the next two to three years. The next offerings will include seminars on Boating on Rivers, Locks and Lakes, and Using VHF and VHF/DSC Marine Radio, as well as the USPS Seamanship course.

URBAN WATERWAYS PROGRAM EXPANDS The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in

create jobs, and protect Americans’ health through

partnership with the White House Council on Environmental

collaborative efforts.

Quality, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the U.S. Department of the Interior, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and other federal partners, announced at a May 15 press conference in Grand Rapids, Mich. that the Urban Waters Federal Partnership has added 11

Among the 11 new project locations are the Big River and Meramec River watersheds near St. Louis, Mo., the Grand River in Grand Rapids, Mich., and the Western Lake Erie Basin near Toledo, Ohio.

new locations. Through the partnership, federal agencies are

The partnership is now in 18 communities and is looking

working to revitalize urban waterways and communities that

to expand to the country’s largest cities and underserved

surround them, transforming overlooked assets and driving

communities. These projects will address a wide range

urban revival.

of issues, such as improving water quality, restoring

The goal of Urban Waterways is to restore waterways and

ecosystems, and enhancing public access to urban waters.

their environments, boost recreation, help local economies,

TRANSATLANTIC SCIENTIFIC EXPEDITION MS Turanor PlanetSolar,

phytoplankton and ocean eddies, and whirlpools that carry

the largest solar-

large amounts of energy. The vessel will also conduct

powered yacht ever

environmental clean-up missions by collecting fl oating

constructed set

plastic waste and host educational events in port cities to

sail in April on a

raise public awareness of climate issues.

transatlantic, scientific expedition to study climate change.

The MS Turanor PlanetSolar will sail along the Gulf Stream’s ocean current, one of the most important regulators of European and

The 102-ft. catamaran will dock in 16 different cities along its

North American

journey. The expedition kicks off the vessel’s second global

climates, from

tour and the launch of the 2013 “PlanetSolar Deep Water”

May to August.

expedition, where scientists from the University of Geneva will

planetsolar.org

collect data from air and water to study the key parameters of climate regulation, specifi cally atmospheric aerosols,

BOATING FATALITIES AT ALL-TIME LOW The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) released its 2012 Recreational

other top five primary contributing factors in fatal boating-

Boating Statistics on May 20, revealing that there were only

related accidents.

651 boating fatalities in 2012, making it the lowest number of boating fatalities on record (see Safety Article on pg. 16 of May/June 2013).

Almost 71 percent of all fatal boating accident victims drowned, and of this number, 84 percent were not wearing a life jacket. Approximately 14 percent of the deaths occurred

From 2011 to 2012, deaths in boating-related accidents

on vessels where the operator had received boating safety

dropped to 651 from 758, a decrease of 14.1 percent. The

instruction. The most common types of vessels involved

number of injuries from boating-related accidents dropped

in reported accidents were open motorboats, followed by

to 3,000 in 2012 from 3,081 in 2011, a 2.6 percent reduction.

personal watercraft and cabin motorboats.

The total number of reported recreational boating accidents also dropped to 4,515 in 2012 from 4,588 the previous year, a decrease of 1.6 percent. Boating accidents in 2012 accounted for approximately $38 million in property damages.

Alcohol use was listed as the leading factor in 17 percent of all deaths. Operator inattention, operator inexperience, improper lookout, machinery failure, and excessive speed were the

Only 9 percent of all boating accident fatalities occurred on vessels where the operator had received boating safety instruction from a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators-approved course provider.

To view the 2012 Recreational Boating Statistics, go to: www.uscgboating.org/statistics/accident_statistics.aspx.

greatlakesboating.com | 43

Sailing

MULTI-DAY EXCURSIONS Since 1987, the Traverse

in 12 double-bunk cabins, and fare includes lodging, all

Tall Ship Company of

meals, and sailing activities.

Traverse City, Mich., has been offering sailing adventures on the freshwater Grand Traverse Bay—and beyond, into Northern Lake Michigan.

Throughout the summer months, three two-hour sails are offered each day—at noon, 3 p.m. and 6:30 pm. Speciality cruises include Microbrew Tastings on Sunday evenings, Entertainment Cruises on Wednesday evenings, and the Wine Tasting Cruises on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, both including specially-catered Mediterranean cuisine.

The Manitou is a replica

In addition, passengers can experience a night aboard

of an 1800s “coasting”

ship followed by full breakfast as part of the “Floating Bed

cargo schooner. A

& Breakfast.”

traditional two-masted, gaff rigged, topsail schooner, it measures 114 feet in length.

With a 59-passenger sailing capacity (24 overnight capacity), there is plenty of space for moving around the decks while under sail. Passengers are free to leave the sailing to the

Each September, the Manitou offers its multi-day windjammer excursions that include visits to quaint coastal villages.

crew or lend a hand and learn the arts of the sailor.

The schooner Manitou works with Inland Seas Education Association, providing hands-on environmental education

The 2013 sailing schedule includes the following sailing trips:

to school kids from throughout the region and state. The

4-Day Astronomy Cruise (Sept. 13-16, $685 pp); 4-Day Wine

ship is also available for private charters.

Tasting Cruise (Sept. 20-23, $685 pp); and 4-Day Fall Color

tallshipsailing.com // 800-678-0383

Cruise (Sept. 27-30, $635 pp). Accommodations are provided

LAKE ERIE SOLO CHALLENGE The Lake Erie Solo Challenge is one of four Great Lakes

freighter traffi c, and the ingredients are in place for a

Singlehanded Society membership granting events on

challenge on par with those of any other lake.

the Great Lakes. While Lake Erie may be the smallest and shallowest of the Great Lakes, those very characteristics can make for some extraordinarily diffi cult sailing. Winds can suddenly produce large, steep-faced waves, and summer thunderstorms can turn a placid body of water into a tempest just as quickly. Include a high concentration of pleasure craft, fishermen, and fishnets interspersed with commercial

This year the Lake Erie Solo Challenge begins on Aug. 17, with a start off of North Cape Yacht Club near Monroe, Mich., and the fl eet proceeds past Pelee Island, Ontario and eastward to a rounding of the Seneca Shoal Light near Buffalo, N.Y., then on to a finish off of Presque Isle Harbor at Erie, Pa. solosailor.org/eriesolo.php

TRANS SUPERIOR YACHT RACE Aug. 3 will mark

in conjunction with the Duluth Yacht Club and the Algoma

the start of the

Sailing Club in Sault Ste. Marie.

23rd biennial Trans Superior International Race. The

The race starts in the vicinity of Gros Cap Light in Whitefish Bay, near Sault Ste. Marie and finishes near the entrance to the Duluth Ship Canal in Duluth.

338-nautical mile

Race activities will commence with a skipper’s meeting on

race from Sault

Aug. 2 at the Algoma Sailing Club, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario,

Ste. Marie, Canada, to Duluth, Minn., is held every odd year

and end with an awards dinner and party at a location to be

and is sponsored by the Lake Superior Yachting Association

determined in Duluth. transsuperior.com

44 GLB | July/August 13

LEARN ON YOUR OWN BOAT want to learn on their own boat, in their own waters. This is a real-time experience learning to operate and maneuver the boat, as well as how to manage all the complex systems of today’s vessels.

This personalized, private instruction is available wherever the boat is located. The classes are highly individualized— tailor-made to meet the needs of each individual student. A licensed instructor is there to answer any questions and to teach the how-to’s and why’s of boat handling, systems and safe seamanship.

The Sailing & Powerboating School is teaching customized,

Fees start at $400 per day.

On Your Own Boat© courses this season. These lessons are

seasenseboating.com // 800-332-1404

designed to instruct individuals or couples about what they

GROWTH IN ADAPTIVE SAILING MARKET It was not too long ago that “sailing for the disabled”

along with kids and other people with physical disabilities.

meant holding a regatta to benefit a charitable organization

The inherent stability of the boats, along with the ‘arm chair’

that worked with “handicapped people.” Now, things have

seating arrangement, makes it a perfect boat for this use. We

changed. Instead of acting as the passive beneficiaries

added the center hand steering,

of sailing activities, people with disabilities are now

center foot steering, and mid-

direct participants.

boom sheeting, so the boats could be controlled from either

WindRider International has partnered with non-profit

front or rear cockpit, sailing solo,

Adaptive Adventures, Littleton, Colo., to supply six new

in tandem and even with friends

WindRider 17 trimarans for use on Chatfi eld Reservoir in

and family along.”

Colorado. The Adaptive Adventures “Broad Reach” Adaptive Sailing Program mission is to provide the environment,

WindRider manufactures and

instruction, and support for individuals with special needs

distributes three models

to experience the thrills of sailing.

of trimaran sailboats, which are designed for simplicity,

According to Robert Sanberg, Chief Operating Offi cer of

affordability, safety and fun.

WindRider, “These boats will be used by disabled veterans,

windrider.com

2013 ROLEX FASTNET RACE oldest offshore race entails a punishing 608-nautical mile journey from Cowes, Isle of Wight, to Plymouth via the Fastnet Rock, off the southern tip of Ireland.

As many as 380 yachts could start the biennial race. More than 20 countries and territories from fi ve continents will be represented, with both amateur and professional crews.

The race is as notoriously difficult to finish as it is to win. The handicap system applied to the main body of the fleet means the overall winner can hail from any size of yacht.

The race will start from the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes on Aug. 11.

One of sailing’s greatest contests reconvenes in August in the shape of the 45th edition of the Rolex Fastnet Race. Europe’s

greatlakesboating.com | 45

NEW PRODUCTS

USB CHARGER DOUBLES AS A LANTERN The new Arka USB Charger + Lantern + Flashlight™ from UCO is an all-in-one solution to charging mobile electronics.

Smartphones, cellular phones, GPS units, digital cameras, audio speakers, and any other electronic devices that can be charged through a USB cord.

Powered by a rechargeable 4AH Li-Ion battery, the frosted globe of the Arka can be extended for use as a lantern with diffused white light, or collapsed for use as a flashlight. The lantern has five lighting modes, including high and low light, plus three red LEDs for night vision, strobe, and emergency S.O.S. strobe. $69.99 // 888-297-6062 // ucogear.com

WATERPROOF STORAGE Upano™ Waterproof Duffels and Aquapac PackDivider™ Drysacks form a completely waterproof and lightweight organization system.

Available in 40-, 70- and 90-liter versions, the Aquapac Upano Waterproof Duffel features a durable welded construction, special roll-top closure, and an air-release valve to keep gear dry.

Available in four sizes (2, 4, 8 and 13 liters), the PackDivider Drysack keeps clothing and gear organized and dry.

Duffels: $120-$145; PackDividers: $13-20 // 866 -929- 0639 // aquapac.net

OUTBOARD MOTOR TRANSPORT The Motor Caddy makes hoisting and carrying most 2- to 15-hp outboards quick, simple, and safe.

The Motor Caddy has a self-centering handle that works equally well for lifting motors by hand or with a lanyard or hoist. Its improved design includes a longer harness strap to fi t fourstroke models. A shortened security strap provides extra protection when transporting streamlined engine cases.

A loop tensioner and adjustment buckle make the harness easy to customize to the shape and size of a variety of outboard motors. $29.99 // 510 -732-9229 // w w w.davisnet.com

46 GLB | July/Augus t 13

SMALLEST PLB The rescueME PLB1 is a compact personal locator beacon (PLB) that fits onto any lifejacket and is easily activated.

When activated, the unit will transmit accurate position data from its 66 channel GPS for a minimum of 24 hours, while the integrated strobe light ensures maximum visibility.

Beyond 24 hours of continuous operation, and when the battery power is insufficient to transmit the satellite signal, the PLB1’s homing beacon and strobe light will continue to operate.

It comes with a detachable fl otation lanyard, a snap-in mounting bracket, and a universal mounting strap.

Approx. $299 // datrex.com

BOAT SHOES Unlike traditional boat shoes that are made out of leather or suede, SWIMS offers a water-compatible alternative. The versatile loafers are made with adaptable and breathable nylon, are entirely water-resistant, and can be put in a washing machine for cleaning.

The loafers also feature an anti-slip, natural rubber, and nonmarking sole and EVA insole with ventilation system. $149 to $179 // 713-569-8872 // islandtrends.com/swims

FISHING TOTE The Elite Kevin VanDam Signature Series Bag from Plano comes pre-packed with five 3750 ProLatch™ StowAway® utility boxes for storing lures of most any size and shape, and features four zippered pockets, three external pockets, and multiple interior pockets perfect for sunglasses, scent, and tools. The bag is comfortable to carry thanks to a padded shoulder strap and handle.

The bottom of the bag is made of molded waterproof material to keep it in place on the deck of any boat or dock. $99.99 // 800 -226 -9868 // planomolding.com

greatlakesboating.com | 47

BOAT CARE & FEEDING

CLEANER & DEGREASER Mean Green® Industrial Strength Cleaner & Degreaser is specially formulated for marine cleaning applications, including personal watercraft. It quickly removes grime and stains from hulls and exteriors, cleans vinyl seats and other marine fabrics, lifts scuffs and black marks from vinyl surfaces, cleans fiberglass, floors, and more.

Mean Green is also suited for the surfaces and materials found on ski boats, houseboats, boat trailers, and even removal of grease spots in marina parking lots.

It is available in sizes ranging from a 32-ounce trigger spray bottles to 55-gallon drums. $7.99, 32-oz. bottle // 866 -447-3369 // meangreendegreaser.com/industrial-strength

GLOW-IN-THE-DARK DOCK BUMPER Manufactured out of recycled TPE material, the Glow-in-theDark Boat Dock Bumpers provide all-night glow that has been co-extruded on the upper corner of the bumper profile so they’re visible on the dock or when approaching from the water.

The 8-foot pieces are easily attached using a special fastening that covers the screws, reducing the chance of scratching a boat. The glow strip recharges during the day with or without direct sunlight. The bumper material has no plasticizers to migrate like traditional PVC bumpers providing longer life and improved cushioning at temperature extremes.

715-386-8040 // boatdockbumpers.com

COMPACT DIESEL GENERATOR The 4.2 kW Entec diesel generator is fresh-water cooled, comes with a heat exchanger containing a cupronickel tube bundle, and has removable end caps for easy maintenance. A pre-lube start function prevents damage from dry starts. In an emergency, the genset can be engaged with a hand crank.

At 170 lbs. and just 13” W x 20” L x 18.5” H, the unit fits nicely in tight spaces. An auto safety shutdown system, remote control panel, 20-ft. wiring harness, hand crank, and oil drain pump come standard. $7,800 // 727-522-9471 // mastr y.com

48 GLB | July/Augus t 13

IMPROVED SEWAGE TREATMENT DEVICE Raritan’s new Purasan Ex is a US Coast Guard-approved Type 1 onboard marine sanitation device for vessels up to 65 feet in length. It is electronically controlled and works in a two-minute treatment cycle.

With low power consumption, it operates quietly and is easy to clean and maintain. It also alleviates the need for holding tanks.

It is offered in 12 and 24V DC options and is backed by a oneyear limited warranty. $1,940 // 856 -825-4900 // raritaneng.com

HUB KITS FOR SMALLER HP ENGINES Designed for smaller 8- to 20-hp engines with a 2½ -inch gear case, the new 200-series hub kits work with Turning Point’s Hustler aluminum 3-blade propeller housings.

The 200-series hubs are comprised of a one-piece bushing with corrosion-resistant, glass-reinforced nylon over brass splines that eliminate the spinning and cracking problems commonly associated with plastic splines and multi-part hub systems. A shock-absorbing polymer cushion reduces gear shock and engine/drive damage while minimizing vibration.

The hubs can be reused even after most propeller impacts. $27 // 847-437-6800 // turningpointpropellers.com

BARNACLE SCRAPER The Barnapole barnacle removal tool helps boaters scrape barnacles, mussels and other crustaceans from seawalls and dock pilings.

It features curved and flat scraper blades made from solid stainless steel and a handle attachment block made from solid aluminum extrusion.

The Barnapole can remove up to 9 inches of buildup with each pass, and is designed to be used from the top of a dock.

The Original Barnapole attaches to any standard threaded pole, such as a paint roller or broom handle (handles not included with either unit). $39.98 // 800 -92-6241 // shurhold.com

greatlakesboating.com | 49

EVENTS CALENDAR

JULY FLORIDA JULY 20-21

O RLANDO N AUTICAL FLEA M ARKET/ S EAFOOD FESTIVAL Central Florida Fairgrounds Orlando flnauticalfleamarket.com

SEPTEMBER 6-8

PROGRESSIVE I NSURANCE TAMPA B OAT S HOW Tampa Convention Center Tampa

SEPTEMBER JULY 30 – AUGUST 4

AUGUST 9-11

S UPER B OAT G REAT L AKES G RAND PRIX

S HIP

Washington Park Michigan City mcsummerfest.org

AUGUST 22-25

PROGRESSIVE I NSURANCE M ICHIGAN C ITY I N -WATER B OAT S HOW Michigan City Port Authority Michigan City

MICHIGAN JULY 13

C HINATOWN D RAGON B OAT R ACE Ping Tom Memorial Park Chicago chicagochinatown.org

Navy Pier Chicago navypier.com/tallshipschicago/

AUGUST 7-11

C HICAGO M ATCH C UP Navy Pier Chicago chicagocup.org

JULY 13

CARDBOARD B OAT DASH Washington Park Michigan City michigancityparks.com

50 GLB| July/August 13

solosailor.org/eriesolo.php

MINNESOTA JULY 26-28

visitduluth.com/tallships2013

harborbeach.com/maritime/

JULY 12-14 ®

tallshipcelebration.com

NEW YORK JULY 20-21

K EUK A L AKE R EGATTA Depot Park Hammondsport winecountryclassicboats.com

JULY 13

H ARBOR B EACH M ARITIME FESTIVAL Over Lake Huron Harbor Beach michiganfireworks.com/events/harborbeach-maritime-festival/

JULY 25-28

O SWEGO H ARBORFEST Multiple Venues Oswego oswegoharborfest.com

JULY 20

JULY 28-29

B ELL’S B EER BAYVIEW M ACKINAC R ACE

EVANGOLA PIRATE FEST

Southern Lake Huron Port Huron

Evangola State Park Brant/Angola piratefest.civilwarsignals.org

byc.com

AUGUST 2-4

LTYC U GOTTA R EGATTA

49 TH A NNUAL A NTIQUE B OAT S HOW & A UCTION

Little Traverse Yacht Club Harbor Springs

Antique Boat Museum Clayton

ltyc.org/sailing/regattas/

abm.org

AUGUST 6-12

AUGUST 9-18

M ICHIGAN PIRATE FESTIVAL

B ILL J OHNSTONS PIRATE DAYS

Multiple Venues Grand Haven

Alexandria Bay Alexandria Bay

michiganpiratefestival.com

visitalexbay.org

JULY 26-28

INDIANA

North Cape Yacht Club Monroe

Duluth Harbor Duluth

Down at the Beach Harbor Beach

Multiple Venues Bay City

TALL S HIPS C HICAGO 2013

L AKE ERIE S OLO C HALLENGE

H ARBOR B EACH M ARITIME FESTIVAL

C HICAGO YACHT C LUB R ACE TO M ACKINAC

AUGUST 7-11

AUGUST 17

TALL S HIPS® D ULUTH 2013

TALL S HIP C ELEBRATION: BAY C ITY

cycracetomackinac.com

harborcountry.org/Ship-and-ShoreFestival-119/

JULY 11-15

JULY 14

Chicago Yacht Club Chicago

S HORE FESTIVAL

michigancityboatshow.com

tampaboatshow.com

ILLINOIS

AND

Whittaker Street New Buffalo

SEPTEMBER 6-8

SEPTEMBER

PENNSYLVANIA

CANADA

New York State Fairgrounds Syracuse

AUGUST 9-10

JULY 19-21

PRESQUE I SLE BAY M ESSABOUT

SAILS

cnyboatshow.com

Bayfront Maritime Center Erie

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

bayfrontcenter.org/Presque-else-baymessabout

algoma1812.com

CNY FALL B OAT S HOW

OHIO JULY 4-7

PORT OF C LEVELAND 2013 TALL S HIPS® FESTIVAL Cleveland Harbor Cleveland clevelandtallships.com

ON THE

S T. M ARYS

EVENTS CALENDAR

JULY

JULY 26-28 AUGUST 20

CARDBOARD B OAT R EGATTA Bayfront Maritime Center Erie bayfrontcenter.org/cardboard/

M USKOK A I N -WATER B OAT & C OTTAGE S HOW & M USKOK A R IBFEST Muskoka Wharf Gravenhurst, Ontario muskokashows.com

JULY 12-14

H URON R IVER FEST Huron Boat Basin Huron huronriverfest.com

AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 2

BATTLE OF L AKE ERIE B ICENTENNIAL EVENTS

AUGUST 3

TRANS S UPERIOR I NTERNATIONAL YACHT R ACE

Multiple Venues Lake Erie battleoflakeerie-bicentennial.com/

transsuperior.com

JULY 18-21

L EUKEMIA C UP R EGATTA

Algoma Sailing Club Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

WISCONSIN

AUGUST 4-6

JULY 13

THE PIRATE FESTIVAL

leukemiacup.org/noh/

H OOK R ACE

Country Heritage Park, Ontario

JULY 26-27

Racine Yacht Club Racine

B URNING R IVER FEST

racineyachtclub.org

Whiskey Island Cleveland

AUGUST 16-18

Cleveland Yachting Club Cleveland

thepiratefestival.com

AUGUST 16-18

TALL S HIPS® 1812 G EORGIAN BAY ®

burningriverfoundation.org

BAYLAKE BANK TALL S HIP FESTIVAL G REEN BAY

SEPTEMBER 6-8

Downtown Riverfront Green Bay

1812bicentennial.com/

Put-In-Bay South Bass Island

tallshipgreenbay.com

AUGUST 30 – SEPTEMBER 2

tallshipserie.com

AUGUST 23-25

S OUTHWESTERN O NTARIO: SAILS TO S EE

SEPTEMBER 7

PORT WASHINGTON M ARITIME H ERITAGE FESTIVAL

Multiple Venues Windsor, Ontario

Lakefront Port Washington

1812ontario.ca/

TALL S HIPS® ERIE 2013

G REAT L AKE ERIE FLOAT B OAT Lower Edgewater State Park Beach Cleveland

Multiple Venues Owen Sound, Ontario

portmaritimfestival.com

cmnh.org/site/conservation

SEPTEMBER 9-12 SEPTEMBER 12-15

G REAT L AKES WEEK

PROGRESSIVE I NSURANCE N ORTH A MERICAN D EMO B OAT S HOW

Delta Convention Center Milwaukee

Cedar Point Marina Sandusky

conference.healthylakes.org

clevelandboatshow.com

greatlakesboating.com | 51

MARINE MART

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Advertiser Ad ti Index I d 1000 Islands

7

Bennett Trim Tabs

31

Captain’s Classes

52

Chicago Harbors/Westrec

3

Hagerty Insurance

55

Essex Credit

1

Michigan City In-Water Boat Show North Point Marina

17 IBC

Pro-Line Boats

21

Progressive Insurance

2

Sabre Yacht

SkipperBud’s

FREE ADS GOT A BOAT TO SELL? Complimentary 25-word classified boat advertisements and PHOTO in the September/October 2013 issue.

F

F

(NO STRINGS ATTACHED!)

Email your text-only advertisement to:

classifieds@greatlakesboating.com

Free classified boat advertisement offer limited to one per reader.

S

S

for the September/October 2013 issue must be received by Aug. 5, 2013.

52 GLB| July/August 13

5, 53, 54

Solar Shield

55

Visit Sheboygan

BC

Waukegan Harbor

56

SUBSCRIBE Online!

SUBSCRIPTION RATES US Customers 1 yr $21.50 (6 issues) 2 yr $40.00 (12 issues) CANADA (USD) 1 yr $27.50 (6 issues) 2 yr $46.00 (12 issues)

All classified ads are subject to publisher’s approval. Space is limited.

Free ads will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Advertisements

IFC

VISIT:

GreatLakesBoating.com or CALL: 312.266.8400

MARINE MART

MISCELLANEOUS

POWERBOAT 1989 280 Baja Sport: Good entry level performance boat. Twin 454s, trailer included. Located Southeast Michigan.

Call Chuck at 419-356-4522.

Asking $21,900 OBO.

44’ Sea Ray Sundancer 1992 Model: Clean and fast with twin low-hour Cat diesels. Full electronics and rev-cycle air conditioned owner’s queen and guest staterooms. Located Chicago.

Call 312-671-1700 or email jro@theyachtexchange.com for complete details. Asking $77K

Boat Handyman/Assistant: A friendly, fun, hard working and honest young man is looking for a summer job as boat handyman/captain assistant. Can take professional photos, help with boat party or pre-sail organization, etc. Contact Alex at wolf7haldenstein@gmail.com or 312-459-9761.

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A MARINA? CONTACT: Eddy A. Dingman, CNS Lic: Marina Realestate/Business Broker

847-987-6626 Edingman@cbcworldwide.com COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL, NRT NATIONAL MARINA PROPERTIES GROUP

Financing available to qualified buyers.

Visit: http://golfcourseandmarinasales.com

greatlakesboating.com | 53

B11299 B11398 P1922 B11617 B11114 B10899 B9837 B11406 B8629 B10545 B11335 B11229 B11179 B11711 B11428 B10928 B11655 B9756 B10552 B11577 B11167 B11789 B11583 B11869 B11798 P1852A B10278 B11409 B11848 B11742 B9941 B11830 S0031A B7287 P2541 B10784 B11321 B11361 P2561 B11582 B10847

1989 2006 2004 2004 2004 2000 2008 2006 2000 2007 2007 1999 2008 1997 1988 2010 1988 1989 2002 1998 2006 1988 1982 2004 2007 1998 2005 1999 2002 1988 1997 1997 1996 2004 1982 2005 2008 1987 1975 2004 1978

54 GLB| July/August 13

34’ 37’ 37’ 42’ 30’ 30’ 32’ 34’ 34’ 35’ 35’ 42’ 52’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 31’ 31’ 31’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 34’ 34’ 34’ 35’ 35’ 36’

CARVER FOUR WINNS CRUISERS SEA RAY SEA RAY CHRIS CRAFT RINKER SEA RAY SEA RAY LARSON RINKER UNIESSE SEA RAY DORAL SEA RAY REGAL Sea Ray SEA RAY SEA RAY SEA RAY FOUR WINNS CARVER ENDEAVOUR BENETEAU SEA RAY CHRIS CRAFT CHAPARRAL RINKER MAXUM CRUISERS SEA RAY SEA RAY SEA RAY DORAL CARVER RINKER MERIDIAN SEA RAY CHRIS CRAFT SILVERTON TROJAN

$35,900 $149,995 $154,995 $299,900 $99,900 $43,900 $109,995 $180,000 $84,995 $129,000 $165,000 $229,000 $639,900 $39,900 $13,500 $199,900 $13,500 $24,900 $79,900 $49,900 $84,900 $24,500 $22,000 $74,900 $139,900 $39,995 $109,000 $59,900 $59,900 $22,900 $54,900 $49,900 $59,995 $109,900 $5,000 $94,997 $199,500 $34,995 $8,000 $154,995 $27,900

B11837 B11364 B10231 B11145 B10922 F1021R N0018A B9330 B11576 B10370 B10350 B11677 B11181 B10882 B11588 B10924 B8852 B11379 B11171 B11618 P1701A B11174 B11838 B11326 B9656 B11551 B11062 B8085 B11037 B11735 B11796 B10470 B10736 B11271 B11561 B11851 B11347 B11083 B11611 B9473 5146C

2003 2003 1980 1997 1995 2011 1997 2002 2002 1987 2008 2000 2004 2006 2000 1999 1997 1988 2004 1996 1998 2006 1992 2008 1995 2009 1987 2005 2002 1990 1999 2008 2007 1995 2005 1977 1993 1994 1998 2003 1991

36’ 36’ 37’ 37’ 37’ 37’ 37’ 37’ 38’ 38’ 39’ 39’ 40’ 40’ 40’ 41’ 41’ 42’ 42’ 42’ 42’ 43’ 44’ 44’ 44’ 45’ 46’ 46’ 47’ 50’ 50’ 55’ 60’ 35’8 32’ 32’ 34’ 36’ 38’ 42’ 46’

SKIPPERBUDS.COM SEA RAY CARVER HERSHINE SEA RAY SEA RAY FOUR WINNS SILVERTON FORMULA SEA RAY CHRIS CRAFT CRUISERS CARVER CRUISERS SEA RAY SEA RAY MAXUM MAXUM CRUISERS TIARA SEA RAY SEA RAY SAGA SEA RAY REGAL SEA RAY FORMULA SEA RAY SEA RAY WELLCRAFT SEA RAY SEA RAY SEA RAY SEA RAY TIARA RINKER TROJAN BAJA TIARA CRUISERS SEA RAY TROJAN

$145,000 $169,500 $39,900 $105,900 $69,900 $249,995 $69,995 $179,900 $149,900 $49,900 $249,900 $134,900 $174,900 $259,900 $209,000 $145,000 $129,995 $54,900 $359,900 $139,900 $139,995 $249,000 $89,900 $319,900 $119,000 $525,000 $76,000 $375,000 $179,000 $129,900 $245,000 $1,099,000 $799,000 $114,995 $75,995 $25,000 $29,500 $129,900 $99,500 $249,000 $219,000

MARINE MART

For complete specs & photos of these boats visit: