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
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06 GLB | July/August 13
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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
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