Great Lakes Boating May/June 2015

W H E R E F R E S H W A T E R B O A T E R S G O F O R N E W S

June 2015 • greatlakesboating.com

Engaging Hispanics

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PUBLISHER’S

NOTE

WHERE BOATERS GO FOR NEWS

marine businesses, including professional

I

Publisher & Editor in Chief F. Ned Dikmen

boat builders, boatyards, boat dealers, and governmental agencies.

Managing Editor Karen Malonis

t’s been a long brutal winter, but the time has come to put away

Low gas prices are a welcome sight for

our winter outerwear, grab our

recreational boaters and sportsfishermen

marine gear, and put our boats

on the Great Lakes. The number of people

into the water.

who in recent years have told me that they’re

Associate Editor Jerome A. Koncel Contributing Writers Doug Jensen Emma Norton Art Direction Alex SanFaçon

cutting back on boating because of the high

They say a picture is worth a thousand words,

price of gas is too numerous to count. This

and if that’s the case, then the pictures of

summer, however, these people can enjoy

the Absolute Yachts on our front cover and

the lower prices they have longed for and

our boat feature beginning on page 12 are

begin making those long-planned jaunts to

worth ten thousand words. These vessels

nearby towns and harbors.

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

are absolutely beautiful, both inside and out.

As we all know, gas prices are volatile, so Two additional head turners are the 46

enjoy the low gas prices while they last!

Eastbay SX and Palm Beach 50 boats from Grand Banks that are described in the article

I want to call your attention to very important

GREAT LAKES BOATING® Magazine (ISSN 1937-7274)

beginning on page 22. Beauty is in the eye

article on aquatic invasive species (AIS)

©

of the beholder, but there are some beauties

by Doug Jensen of Minnesota Sea Grant

Boating Publications, Inc., its publisher, 1032 N. LaSalle

that catch everyone’s eyes.

beginning on page 24. Jensen is the

Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

2014 is a registered trademark (73519-331) of Chicago

person responsible for coming up with and

For editorial inquiries, contact Great Lakes Boating

I see some very positive signs on the horizon

designing the slogan of Clean, Dry, and

Magazine at 1032 N. LaSalle, Chicago, IL 60610

encouraging people to enjoy boating this

Drive to stop the spread of aquatic invasive

p 312.266.8400 or e kmalonis@greatlakesboating.com.

summer, and they come in the form of longer

species from one lake or river to another via

Great Lakes Boating Magazine is available online at

days, lower gas prices, and more focused

the bottom of trailerable boats.

greatlakesboating.com and at any of the distribution

efforts to engage Hispanics in boating. On this latter effort, read our editorial on page

While Jensen praises the work of recreational

8 and our article on how the Recreational

boaters in stopping the spread of AIS, he

Boating and Fishing Foundation is targeting

says that now is not the time to stop working.

this key segment of our population. The

His message is quite direct: We all have

article on Hispanics and boating begins on

an important part to play in stopping the

page 18.

spread of AIS, and if we don’t do our part,

A new major boating center has opened in

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.

the consequences for our rivers, lakes, and

Great Lakes Boating Magazine does not assume

streams could be disastrous.

liability or ensure accuracy of the content contained in its articles, editorials, new product releases and

Chicago. West Marine, the world’s largest boating equipment and waterlife outfitter,

And as I get ready to celebrate May Day,

opened its flagship Midwest store on April

Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day, Memorial

23, and the 20,000 sq. ft. facility will cater to

Day, and the arrival of summer, I hope that

all those people who enjoy life on the water,

you will enjoy your time on the waters and

from boaters and fishermen to kayakers and

cherish them.

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

paddle boarders. See our article on this new

reproduced in any form without written consent of

facility on page 32.

the Great Lakes Boating Magazine editorial and executive staff. Past copies may be purchased by

The new store will also serve as the company’s Midwest hub for Port Supply, the wholesale division of West Marine. The Port Supply hub will serve as a resource for

4 GLB | May/June 2015

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.

Exclusive distributor for North America

Forward Ventures Group

email: info@forwardv.com phone: 1-­‐877-­‐500-­‐1686

10 NAVETTA 58

18 FEATURES Features

Specifications:

ABSOLUTE YACHTS........................ 12 HISPANICS & BOATING.................... 18 GRAND BANKS.............................. 22 AQUATIC NUISANCES......................... 24

SPOTLIGHTS Spotlight

BOAT GRAPHICS............................ 28 DIVE TIPS..................................... 30

THE NEWS InIN the News

GREAT LAKES............................... 34 FISHING....................................... 38 MARINAS..................................... 40 NATIONAL.................................... 42 SAILING....................................... 44

28

DEPARTMENTS Departments

PUBLISHER’S NOTE.................................4 EDITORIALS................................................. 8 NEW PRODUCTS...................................46 BOAT CARE AND FEEDING......................48 EVENTS CALENDAR...............................50 ADVERTISER INDEX............................... 52 MARINE MART.....................................53

• READ •

GREAT LAKES BOATING

on your tablet or smartphone

visit: greatlakesboating.com

Join the Great Lakes Boating Federation redesigned www.greatlakesboatingfederation.com

Total Length:.............................55’9” Beam:........................................16’5” Fresh Water Capacity:.............158 gal.

Fuel Capacity:...........................634 gal.

S

ince its launch 12 years ago, Absolute is considered one of the leaders of Italy’s powerboat industry. The company is known for its yachts of superior design and innovation.

The 58 Navetta was created with an experienced ‘old salt’ seaman in mind, while taking the modern yachtsman into consideration.

The vessel can be accessed from one of four entrances, two of which are on the stern platform and two from the side passages. The high bulwarks and protective gunwale along the entire side decks give a feeling of safety.

All external areas provide those on board with clear views of the water.

Safety is again emphasized by the great visibility from both helm stations, by two independent accesses to the engine room, and by the vessel’s superior maneuverability.

Some of the comforts of the 58 Navetta can be found in its three sunbathing areas, two complete galleys, separate accommodations for the owner, and three double cabins with private bathrooms.

As a result of years of experience with IPS technology, the Absolute-Volvo collaboration allows the 58 Navetta to achieve the best fuel economy in its category.

Absolute North America 411 S. Gay St., Ste. A Knoxville, TN 37922 865-924-9321

www.absoluteyachts.net 6 GLB | May/June 2015

An American Dream… conceived and built here.

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rom her fuel efficient, Kevlar® reinforced hull and flawless gelcoat finish, the Marlow-Mainship 32 Pilothouse is a work of art. Interior finishes available in teak or cherry, she is equipped with genuine Corian® counter tops for easy maintenance, after all, who wants to spend time cleaning. Consumate craftmanship is to be found everywhere because after all… She is a Marlow.

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EDITORIALS

BOATING ATTRACTS HISPANICS Sometimes it seems that the recreational boating industry can’t

•

The most significant barrier to Hispanic boating is a

see the forest from the trees. While the industry laments the lack

lack of knowledge or understanding of boating, Most

of young people and minorities who participate in recreational

Hispanics don’t know the true cost of boat ownership and

boating and fishing, it seems to ignore a major demographic of

maintenance, so they perceive boat ownership as a rich

the U.S. population that is both young and growing—Hispanics.

If the industry is to be successful, it can’t ignore Hispanics. It must be pro-active in attracting them to boating.

person’s activity.

•

Few Hispanics grow up in boating households, which is a cornerstone for future participation in boating. In addition, Hispanics do not live near the water or see Hispanic role

In reviewing the boating industry, all is not lost. There is at least

models in boating.

one organization engaging Hispanics, and it is the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF), which initiated a

So, how does the industry get more Hispanics to buy boats?

five-year program last year to increase Hispanic participation

The RBFF study showed that the industry must do a better

in recreational boating and fishing. RBFF has joined forces

job of adapting to the Hispanic culture. There must be more

with Lopez Negrete, a Houston-based marketing services firm

Spanish or dual language speakers at dealerships, more

specializing in Hispanic consumer communications, to map out

Hispanics appearing in boat shows and advertisements,

a plan targeting this key market segment.

and more people showing Hispanics how boat ownership provides a great opportunity for spending time with the

RBFF’s first major project in this effort has been a research

family, which is the single biggest motivator for purchasing a

study of current and prospective Hispanic boat owners in key

boat. Moreover, boat ownership is a great way for Hispanics

Hispanic markets, specifically Houston and Miami. The goal

to escape from the stresses of everyday life.

of this research was to highlight the opportunity for growth in Hispanic boating, identify challenges and barriers to this growth,

RBFF’s study found that Hispanics need to be “invited”

and show some positive things that the industry can do to

to participate in boating, and this includes inviting the

encourage Hispanic boat ownership.

whole family. This participation must be a “positive boating experience,” or else the Hispanic family will abandon any

The Hispanic population represents a great opportunity to

thoughts of purchasing a boat.

grow boating. Research shows that Hispanics are woefully underrepresented in fishing and boating, representing only

Hispanics will visit boat shows to see first-hand the boat of their

about 1.7 million out of a 53 million population. Here are some

dreams. They’ll go to the Internet to do serious research. But

other pertinent facts.

their preferred method is to be formally invited by dealers to visit the showroom. This invitation will do wonders for bringing the

•

•

Hispanics currently account for 17 percent of the U.S.

entire family in for a visit. And during this visit, dealers should

population, and are expected to reach 67 million or 20

treat the Hispanic family with respect. Moreover, this research

percent by 2020.

shows that Hispanics view the dealer as an expert to helping

Hispanics represented 55 percent of the growth in the

them find “the right boat” for their needs.

U.S. population between 2000 and 2010.

•

The Hispanic demographic is youth-focused, with their

Because Hispanics prefer cash to credit, dealers will have

median age being 28 compared to 42 for non-Hispanic

to find alternative financing methods when closing the boat

whites. In addition, 23 percent of all U.S. kids under the

deal. In addition, Hispanics prefer buying a boat from a

age of 18 are Hispanic.

dealer as opposed to an individual. When the deal is closed, dealers will find Hispanic buyers to be loyal, passionate

For all this opportunity, there are some serious barriers or

advocates of the dealer, telling family and friends about their

challenges facing the industry’s efforts to increase the number

prized possessions. And the message they are imparting

of Hispanics who are boating.

to the recreational boating industry is this: Don’t ignore Hispanics if you want to be successful.

8 GLB | May/June 2015

WHO CARES ABOUT BOATERS? At a recent “Great Lakes Stakeholders Meeting” hosted

stakeholders in the Great Lakes. Do people matter or is it

by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE),

only tonnage?

our associate editor learned that federal funding for maintenance projects is prioritized based on the

This got us to thinking: Who really cares about Great

economic benefits related to commercial navigation. In

Lakes boaters?

simple terms, it means that USACE prioritizes its work based primarily on the tonnage coming into and exiting

In this issue alone, we can point to several organizations

the individual ports.

that support boaters, including the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, Minnesota Sea Grant, Sea Tow,

The problem with this methodology is that USACE is also

boat manufacturers, and others. The problem is that when

responsible for 80 recreational harbors on the Great Lakes.

we looked to our elected representatives in Washington,

These harbors also require maintenance and structural

D.C., we see powerful people who don’t seem to listen to

repair work. It’s estimated that shallow draft recreational

the needs of boaters and anglers. They seem to care only

harbors need $15 million annually for dredging and repairs.

about the concerns of lobbyists and political donors. The

Will they get these funds? It’s highly doubtful!

organizations we cited are neither of these.

It seems that USACE does a risk assessment of work

Moreover, our elected representatives only view the

projects, and it’s a competition between commercial and

Great Lakes as a navigation system that is a vital

recreational harbors. Commercial ones have an average

economic strength to the nation, and not as a place where

of 145 million tons of commodities transported between

recreational boaters and anglers can spend time enjoying

and within Great Lakes ports each year vs. 4.3 million

warm breezes, clean waters, and abundant fishing.

recreational boaters. Guess who wins?

Here’s the crux of the issue: In the past decade, What’s even more interesting is that USACE has visited

the amount of money USACE requested to perform

every one of the 80 recreational harbors on the Great

dredging and structural repairs at both commercial and

Lakes, inspected their structures, and provided a rating

recreational harbors has fallen woefully short of what’s

for each federal harbor structure. There are 24 of them

needed. The prioritization that USACE does compares

that are at high risk of failure or closure. When will these

commercial navigation vs. recreational boating, and

federal breakwaters at harbors with small amounts of

there’s no question who will win.

commercial navigation receive funding for project work?

Not any time soon.

To change this picture, boaters must become more united, more involved in the political process, and more focused

How can the primary criteria used for determining

on articulating their issues and economic impact to elected

whether a harbor receives funds for needed repairs be

officials. Only if and when this occurs will we be able to

the amount of commercial tonnage entering and leaving

find out who really cares about recreational boaters. And

the harbor? There’s something wrong when USACE does

you can do all three by joining the Great Lakes Boating

not really consider the needs of 4.3 million recreational

Federation, the voice for the 4.3 million registered

boaters and sportsfishermen, who are integral

boaters on the Great Lakes.

AGREE? DISAGREE? WANT TO COMMENT? EMAIL YOUR THOUGHTS TO LET TERS@GREATLAKESBOATING.COM greatlakesboating.com | 9

10 GLB | May/June 2015

greatlakesboating.com | 11

S P E C I F I C AT I O N S

Total Length:...............................52’6” Beam:........................................14’10” Fresh Water Capacity:............118 gal.

Fuel Tank Capacity:...............422 gal.

S

ince its launch 12 years ago, Absolute is considered one of the leaders of Italy’s powerboat industry. Now in its third year in North America, Absolute is making its mark. The recipient of multiple international awards, Absolute is known for yachts of superior design and innovation, using modern construction technologies and materials leading to incredibly spacious interiors, low noise levels, minimum vibrations, and great handling on the water.

Yacht owners wish to enjoy their time on the water with similar comforts they enjoy at home. The Absolute 52 Fly embodies this philosophy. A large sofa in the cockpit greets guests coming aboard. Within reach, there’s a large table where as many as eight people can spend time together while enjoying beautiful outdoor views.

The reclining sunbed on the flybridge is for anyone who wishes to sunbathe. A second sunbed can be found in the bow foredeck area by walking along the wide sidedecks. Here reclining seats help everyone enjoy the environment in comfort.

When accessing the inner spaces, the ‘dining zone’ has a table for lunches and dinners, offering unobstructed outside views through large windows. The galley

12 GLB | May/June 2015

features a full-size fridge, fiberglass stove, microwave oven, and optional dishwasher. It’s conveniently located to serve both salon and cockpit, so that all areas look like one single fluid space.

Going toward the bow, one’s eye catches the helm station with its modern technology. Steering is a pleasure thanks to the comfortable captain helm seat and the precision offered by the IPS propulsion technology.

At night, the lower deck treasures appear. The owner has a full-beam cabin furnished with double bed, sofa, and personal head. A few steps away, the VIP cabin has a double bed and another head compartment. An additional full-size third cabin with two twin beds is ready to accommodate yet more guests on board.

w w w. a b s o l u t e y a c h t s . n e t

52 FLYBRIDGE

greatlakesboating.com | 13

S P E C I F I C AT I O N S

Total Length:...............................54’4” Beam:..........................................15’3” Fresh Water Capacity:........... 148 gal.

Fuel Tank Capacity:........449;502 gal.

Absolute’s reputation as an innovative builder has found its mark in the Absolute 56 STY, a sport yacht with a striking profile featuring a retractable sunroof that floods the interior with sunlight.

56 STY (SPORT YACHT) With a large L-shaped sofa along with a solid teak table, the 56 STY’s cockpit seats up to 10. Doors that slide wide open integrate exterior and interior spaces. The optional electric awning extends far aft to provide shade on

hot days, while the standard cockpit stereo plays one’s favorite tunes.

Inside, the virtues of an open plan layout are evident with a functional galley and a comfy dinette right across. Adjacent is the salon area, featuring a large U-shaped sofa and love seat, both offering superb views outside.

The captain’s helm has an ergonomic dashboard holding two 12-inch GPS screens (15inch screens optional). Sight lines from the helm are superb throughout, so important during navigation as well as for docking using the standard IPS joystick.

The wide companionway provides access to the cabins. The full-beam master features a large double bed, big windows, comfortable sofa, and a wide head compartment with dedicated shower. Guests can count on two full-size cabins: the VIP bow cabin, equipped with another double bed and large windows providing great water views, and the third cabin featuring two single beds with full stand-up headroom.

14 GLB | May/June 2015

S P E C I F I C AT I O N S

Total Length:...............................64’4” Beam:........................................ 16’11” Fresh Water Capacity:........... 171 gal.

Fuel Tank Capacity................792 gal.

64 FLY Offering the most spacious spaces of any yacht in its size class, the impressive Absolute 64 Fly comes with superb performance and seakeeping abilities—all while offering reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

The yacht’s lines carry the unmistakable Absolute signature, extending throughout with fine Italian materials for the interior, natural wood selections, leathers, and stainless steel fixtures. The accommodations layout is beautifully executed. Four spacious cabins welcome guests, offering comfort, privacy, and relaxation. The master and the VIP cabins deserve special mention: their innovative layouts and sheer volume are class leading, not to be found on other yachts of comparable size.

very spacious seating and dining area, with a table easily accommodating eight. The standard electric bimini top or the optional hardtop with electric sunroof provide shade on sunny days. The forward-facing companion seat has space for three, and easily converts into a large sunpad. The flybridge aft area is actually a balcony over the water,

offering majestic horizon views. Last but not least, a full-size bar with sink and serving counter is unique in this size class.

For the owner and his guests, the Absolute 64 Fly will offer unique experiences and memorable moments.

Large windows abound. Natural light and unobstructed views outside make one feel in unison with the outdoors. Full electronic navigation systems come as standard. The captain has two large screens at his disposal along with a full array of controls, all ergonomically and functionally positioned.

The 64 Fly’s upper deck flybridge is stunning.

Largest in its class, the flybridge features a

greatlakesboating.com | 15

S P E C I F I C AT I O N S

Total Length:...............................55’9” Beam:..........................................16’5” Fresh Water Capacity:........... 158 gal.

Fuel Capacity:........................634 gal.

NAVETTA 58 If one were to meet an experienced, seaman, an ‘old salt’, one cannot but admire his experience and ability to handle most all situations on the water. The 58 Navetta was created with the ‘old salt’ in mind, while simultaneously taking the modern yachtsman into consideration.

Access on board can be chosen from one of the four entrances, two of which are on the

stern platform and two directly from the side passages. The high bulwarks and protective gunwale along the entire side decks give a feeling of safety, as do the handrails throughout.

All external areas provide those on board with clear views of the water. Safety is yet again emphasized by the great visibility

from both helm stations, by the two independent accesses to the engine room, and by the vessel’s superior maneuverability in all weather conditions.

The comfort of the 58 Navetta can be found in many of its features: three sunbathing areas, two complete galleys, separate accommodations for the owner, three double cabins with private bathrooms and all accessories, household appliances, hanging lockers, and multimedia devices at owner’s preference.

All areas, from the master cabin to the crew area, from the engine room to the heads, from the living room to the guests’ quarters, feature the highest ceilings in the category. Floors without steps and fullsize doors are just like in a real home.

As a result of years of experience with IPS technology, the Absolute-Volvo collaboration allows the 58 Navetta to achieve the best fuel economy in its category.

16 GLB | May/June 2015

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HISPANICS BOA IN

T

he recreational boating industry’s efforts to attract Hispanics to boating is moving forward at a rapid pace, thanks in large part to the focused efforts of the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF), which recently completed the first phase of a five-year program to grow boating and fishing among Hispanics.

Getting Hispanics attracted to and engaged in boating and fishing is RBFF’s top priority for the next five years. The first phase of its efforts involved a qualitative and quantitative research survey into current and prospective Hispanic boat owners. In cooperation with Lopez Negrete, a Hispanic marketing and communications firm, the research looked into the attitudes of Hispanics toward buying a boat; discovered the major factors motivating their purchases; and identified major challenges and barriers.

RBFF contends that getting more Hispanics into boating is the key factor in the marine industry’s future success, and believes that now is the time is now to make this happen.

Survey results In 2012, RBFF concluded that getting Hispanics into boating was critical to the

18 GLB | May/June 2015

future growth of the marine industry. To achieve this goal, RBFF decided to develop an integrated marketing plan that would encourage greater Hispanic participation in fishing and boating.

The first step in this process was to establish a baseline of Hispanic buying attitudes, motivations for purchasing a boat, and obstacles to boat ownership. Thus, RBFF and Lopez Negrete undertook a qualitative and quantitative research survey of current and prospective Hispanic boat buyers. Why? Here’s the answer.

• Today, there are 54 million Hispanics (i.e., non-Anglos) in the United States, and they account for 17 percent of the total population.

• By 2020, the number of Hispanics in the U.S. will be close to 65 million, accounting for 20 percent of the total U.S. population.

• By 2050, Hispanics are expected to be the single largest demographic population in the United States.

While these statistics are significant, it is also important to note that Hispanics are youthful.

• Hispanics have a median age of 28, while non-Hispanics are 42.

• When looking at kids under the age of 18, RBFF’s research survey found that 23 percent of the kids under the age of 18 are Hispanics. More telling is that Hispanics account for 26 percent of all kids under the age of five.

These facts pinpoint why it’s so important to develop a program now that will attract Hispanics into boating. What they don’t describe are the formidable challenges facing the industry in accomplishing this goal.

ATING

By Jerome A. Koncel

The RBFF survey found that a lack of knowledge and exposure to boating are the most obvious challenges to Hispanic boat ownership. Few Hispanics grow up near water, and even fewer grow up around boating. As a result, there is an obvious lack of exposure to boating among Hispanics.

A second major challenge is that few Hispanic families participate in boating. Research studies have shown that many current boat owners learned about boating from their parents, their families. Passing on the joys of boating from one generation to another is missing among Hispanics.

So what motivates or drives Hispanics to own a boat? The RBFF survey found that the biggest motivator is time with the family.

Everyone in the family can participate in boating, either through cruising, swimming, or sunning. Family time is a key factor in the Hispanic culture, and anything that unites everyone in the family, such as owning a boat, is very important.

Another key reason for owning a boat is that boating is an escape from everyday life.

Boating gets people outdoors, communing with nature, and relaxing with the family.

Barriers

Recommendations

For all the talk about the benefits of boat ownership for Hispanics, there are some major barriers stopping Hispanics from buying a boat.

Given these challenges to Hispanic boat ownership, RBFF’s survey came up with some important steps to help the industry’s sales and marketing efforts.

The biggest barrier is that most Hispanics don’t know the true costs of boat ownership and maintenance. This lack of knowledge leads Hispanics to believe that they can’t afford a boat. They consider boating to be a “rich person’s sport.”

The first recommendation stems from the importance of the family unit in the Hispanic culture. This means that any efforts to get Hispanics into boating must involve the whole family. The industry must be proactive in inviting the Hispanic family to attend boat shows, visit boat dealers, or take demonstration rides on a boat. While the Internet might be the vehicle of choice for inviting Gen Yers to a boating demonstration, Hispanics prefer written, formal invitations sent to the whole family inviting them to visit the dealers, meet the salespersons, and even take the boat for a demonstration ride. If boat dealers want to communicate with Hispanic families, they need to change their marketing efforts to the whole family.

Boat financing is another major barrier.

Hispanics overwhelmingly prefer cash to credit. Because credit is the normal way of paying for boats, dealers are reluctant to come up with financing alternatives.

Another barrier is that there are few Hispanics found in advertising and marketing efforts. Moreover, when Hispanics go to boat shows or dealerships, they find few, if any, salespersons who either are Hispanic or speak Spanish. The scarcity of Hispanics in TV ads, marketing literature, or industry messages leads Hispanics to believe that there are no Hispanic boaters. There’s no emotional connection between Hispanics and boating.

To make Hispanics feel comfortable, dealers and manufacturers will need to employ Spanish-speaking salespeople, translate fliers, literature, and advertisements into both English/Spanish, and teach their salespersons to be sales experts, guiding the

greatlakesboating.com | 19

Hispanic family to the boat of their dreams.

RBFF realized this, noted that actions speak louder than words, so it translated its Take Me Fishing brand into Vamos a Pescar, put boating regulations into Spanish, and even came up with a Spanish version of “Best Fishing Spots.”

this purchase. In addition, Hispanic boat owners are loyal, passionate endorsers of the boat-buying experience. They’ll elevate the boat dealer from just another retailer to a community resource that everyone should visit. Their word of mouth advertising is “priceless.”

RBFF’s survey of Hispanics showed that they view salespeople as experts in the field. They want to establish a “trusting relationship” with this person. There are plenty of boats to choose from on the dealer floor, and the salesperson will guide the Hispanic family to the boat of their dreams.

The payoff

Unlike the typical selling situation between a buyer and seller, the Hispanic sale should include the whole family in the buying decision. Salespersons need to treat everyone in the family with respect and dignity, and must be able to both educate the whole family not only on how the boat operates and its aesthetics, but most importantly, on how owning a boat benefits the whole family.

Sometime before Hispanic buyers come into the dealership to buy their prized possession, they will experience what RBFF calls the “Aha moment.” This is the time when the Hispanic family believes that they can purchase a boat because it is affordable, is a real benefit for them, and is the perfect escape.

It should be noted that Hispanics who purchase a boat actually gain a unique status within their local community. People start looking up to them and admiring them for

20 GLB | May/June 2015

When it comes to selling a boat to the Hispanic family, dealers should make the Hispanic family feel comfortable. At the same time, dealers can “miss the boat” if they don’t treat the individual and his/her family with respect and invite the whole Hispanic family to be boat owners.

Dealers must be hands-on sellers too.

Hispanics love to see, feel, and use the products they will purchase. This goes for the whole family! Dealers can change the boat-buying experience from a task to a “moveable feast” by taking everyone out for a test ride, explaining the boat’s operation and features, and offering an affordable cash financing arrangement.

When it’s time to deliver the boat to the Hispanic buyer, boat dealers should treat this occasion as a big step forward—one that deserves to be celebrated. Instead of simply handing over the keys to the boat to the family, the dealer should turn this moment into a joyous celebration. In some cases, dealers have set aside a separate room for the time when people get their new boats.

Top 10 Recommendations Based on its research survey, RBFF and Lopez Negrete have come up with the top

10 recommendations to get more Hispanics into boating. They are: 1.) Build strategies around the initial boating experience (invitation) 2.) Focus communications on family entertainment, success, status 3.) Integrate identifiable role models and culturally-relevant imagery 4.) Acknowledge Hispanic prospects, susceptible to feeling disregarded 5.) Engage the WHOLE family (including kids) in the show/sales process 6.) Take time to educate shoppers: boat types, operation, after-sale service 7.) Give new owners training basics to promote comfort, safety 8.) Consider alternative financing, e.g., Hispanics have a propensity for cash 9.) Use Spanish-speaking associates, communication materials 10.) Don’t take a “one size fits all” approach to markets, e.g., Miami vs. Houston

The next step RBFF is expanding its website and marketing efforts to California, New York, and Illinois, that is, the cities of Los Angeles, New York City, and Chicago, three major metropolitan areas where a large number of Hispanics live and work, while also being close to large bodies of water, and plentiful boating opportunities.

The next step for RBFF is to take its survey results and turn them into clear, concrete, practical programs that can be used to attract Hispanics into boating and fishing in these major metropolitan areas. Stay tuned for the next step.

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hose boaters who like timeless nautical styling combined with new and innovative technologies will find it in all of Grand Banks Yachts’ recent models, including the 46 Eastbay SX. At the heart of the 46SX’s latest technology is its joystick docking control that provides the operator with superior maneuverability and improved feel in tight docking spaces. The 46’s twin Zeus pod 22 GLB | May/June 2015

drives deftly complement the powerful performance of this Eastbay. Powered by standard twin 600-horsepower diesel engines, the 46SX exceeds 30 knots while her C. Raymond Hunt Associates designed hull provides high performance handling and a safe ride.

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Grand Banks and Palm Beach Yachts are now being represented by Grand Banks Yacht Sales in North America through their new U.S. headquarters located in Holland, Mich., at Yacht Basin Marina. Long-time industry professionals Dave Northrop and Brian Dekkinga are based there, and invite you to make inqui-

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STOP

AQUATIC

HITCHHIKERS

S

un’s out! Water’s warm. Fish? They’re biting and boat’s fueled up. It’s time to either go out for a lazy cruise, drop a line in the water, or hit the lake for an afternoon of waterskiing and tubing with the kids. This day is a memory in the making.

But as Bob Dylan wrote, “The times, they are a-changin’.” And this means some changes are coming to our boating adventures. Put simply, it’s time for all recreational boaters to take that extra step to “clean-drain-dry” their boats and equipment before moving them from one water to another. It’s time to Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!

The problem Over the year, our rivers and lakes have become home to some non-native creatures, some tenacious plants, invertebrates, fish, and pathogens that are known as aquatic invasive species (AIS).

The AIS have caused damages to our favorite watering spots because people don’t properly deal with potentially contaminated boats, motors, trailers, and bait that can spread species like zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, round goby, and spiny water fleas. Water chestnut, hydrilla, and fishhook water fleas are less familiar invaders that can also be accidentally spread on gear, downrigger cables, and fishing lines.

Non-native plants, animals, and pathogens can degrade water quality, clog waterways, and impact fishing. They can cause environmental damage, economic loss, and harm human health. They

24 GLB | May/June 2015

can clog water intake pipes and take away food resources from native fishes.

Ultimately, they harm the environment and the economies of communities that depend upon healthy lakes and rivers.

Having harmful AIS in a lake or river doesn’t mean that anglers can’t still grab their fishing rods and head out for a day on the water. There’s no reason to stop this tradition. For waters to remain clean and productive, however, it’s important for each of us to take actions to prevent the spread of AIS. More than ever, boaters and anglers are taking appropriate actions at water accesses to do just that.

Can the spread of AIS be prevented?

Absolutely. AIS have had plenty of opportunities to move around through the recreational activities of people, yet only a few waters are infested. More importantly, efforts are underway to stop the spread of AIS in the Great Lakes, and they’re working!

For more than two decades, the Great Lakes Sea Grant Network and its many partners have worked with boaters and anglers to encourage actions that prevent aquatic “hitchhikers” from spreading. They’ve done their homework to understand how and where boaters and

anglers receive their information and have gained insight into their attitudes, motivations, and behaviors. It is well documented that most boaters and anglers willingly adopt actions to prevent the spread of harmful AIS. Surveys administered by Sea Grant over the past 20 years show that the vast majority of boaters and anglers are resource savvy, know and understand the threats posed by AIS, and want to be part of the solution. After they were exposed to the Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers! prevention messages of “Clean, Drain, Dry,” 97 percent of boaters and anglers said they were willing to take action at accesses to prevent the spread of AIS. Of those that have not seen the campaign’s logo, nine of 10 respondents knew what it meant.

This is the mark of an effective brand.

Words and actions The keys to preventing the spread of these invaders are individual responsibility and accountability.

If boaters/anglers are out on the water for the day, they should inspect their boat motors and trailers and clean off any aquatic plants, animals, and mud before leaving the water access sites.

They should drain the bilge and livewell

Photos © Chris J. Benson

by removing plugs from these and any water-containing devices. (Be sure to leave the plugs out while transporting the watercraft; some states, such as Minnesota, now require this.) They should dispose of any unwanted live bait, fish parts, and worms in the trash, or give the bait to another angler before leaving the water access. Those who want to re-use their bait should tip and drain all of the water from their bait buckets and replenish it with clean water brought from home. All these things are easy to do if one just plans ahead.

Those boaters who leave their vessels on the water for more than a day should take additional preventative measures.

After inspection and removal of any plants or animals, they should rinse the boat hull, motor, and trailer with

high-pressured, hot water to knock off remaining organisms. Be sure to use low pressure water when rinsing the livewell, bilge, and motor to avoid damaging components. Even just rinsing the hull and compartments that contained water with a garden hose is effective in removing species caught in the dark recesses.

Remember to also dry the boat and gear for more than five days or wipe the boat with a towel before reuse.

By taking these simple and effective actions, recreational boaters can have a memorable day on the water while doing their part to help Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers! Most boaters and anglers are already putting these words into actions.

The spread of aquatic “hitchhikers” is not inevitable. It’s not just a matter of time. Only a small percentage of the

region’s vast network of lakes and rivers are infested, and those left untouched can remain that way if recreational boaters do their part.

The future Stopping the spread of AIS into the Great Lakes and its neighboring rivers and streams is everyone’s responsibility, and the costs can be huge. Some lake communities spend more than $600,000 per year to manage Eurasian watermilfoil through aquatic plant harvesters and herbicide treatments. Public works facilities on zebra-mussel infested waters can spend well over $340,000 per year to bring water to everyone’s faucets.

Electric power plants can easily spend more than $100,000, with nuclear power plants spending more than $2 million per year to keep the home lights burning.

greatlakesboating.com | 25

Each time one turns on their faucets or lights, they are paying to control invasive species.

the only successful eradication story in regards to integrated pest management at a national scale, he added, “It took decades and millions in contributions from industry. The challenge with aquatic invasive species is no less — to alleviate pressure on the science, it would seem wise to look at how we use lakes to see if we might make small changes to reduce risk, at least until we understand pathways of spread.”

Bright people are devoting their careers to developing effective ways to manage AIS. Even so, a clear message emerged at the recent Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference: to control invasive species, societal norms need to shift.

That shift means you, me ... governments, big agriculture, the bait store guy, aquarium owners and water gardeners — all of us need to recognize how we bring non-native species into our lives and how we can stop spreading the harmful ones.

Some likened the necessary cultural shift to those that have us always buckling our seat belts or recycling. Peter Sorensen, Professor at the University of Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center who has spent the better part of his career working to manage invasive fish, including sea lamprey and invasive carp, has concluded that it may be time to rethink how society values and uses its waters. He described lakes and rivers as our heritage and noted that they are

threatened by invasive species in unprecedented ways, and therefore, “unprecedented actions seem to be needed.”

Sorensen and many other researchers are concerned that people expect science to solve problems that could have easily, and much more cheaply, been prevented. He said, “Although fascinating, science directed toward cures is expensive, slow, and time consuming.”

Pointing to the boll weevil as perhaps

Actions boaters and anglers undertake now to protect their lakes and rivers from aquatic invasive species will help preserve future traditions. By taking appropriate actions now to defend our waters from AIS, boaters and anglers can have their lakes…and enjoy them, too!

To find out how individuals and communities can Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!, visit: www.protectyourwaters.net or email djensen1@umn.edu.

Doug Jensen is AIS Extension Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator with the University of Minnesota Sea Grant Program in Duluth, Minn.

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DESIGNING

Your Boat’s Name W

By Jerome A. Koncel

hen it comes to naming your prized possession, it can be creative, cartoonish, familyoriented, or a port of call, but most of all, the chosen name means something to someone. But when it comes to putting that name on your vessel, that’s when you need to call in a professional, a person or company that specializes in producing the highest-quality boat name graphics. That’s when Vinyl Graphix, Inc., St. Clair Shores, Mich., and its owner/operator Chuck Bird come to the forefront.

Whether you have a name already picked out or whether you’re searching for that “perfect graphic” to illustrate that name, Bird will be a big help in producing a customized image. Creating a high-quality customized graphic design isn’t easy; on the other hand, most boat owners take great pride in naming their vessels. That’s why they want design and graphics that exceed their expectations. And that’s why family-run Vinyl Graphix is never satisfied with a run-of-the-mill name or visuals.

The process Once you’ve purchased your boat, giving it a name may sound simple, but this question can be one that vexes one’s mind and thoughts for days on end. It can prompt people to wonder what name is appropriate for their boat, whether they should add a name and image, question how big the name should appear, wonder which typeface should they use, and/or if they should add a port of call. Bird says that Vinyl Graphix works closely with boat owners to answer these questions and produce a graphic boat design that is the envy of fellow boaters.

28 GLB | May/June 2015

“I’ve been doing boat graphics and design since 1987, and I’m extremely proud of my work,” said Bird. “It can be found at local marinas, on the Great Lakes, and throughout the country.” Bird’s creative juices tell owners that “he’ll take that name and make it sing.”

Bird got his start in boat graphics in the mid-1980s, putting vinyl-cut graphics on boats using computers. He was smart enough in those days to archive 350-400 designs from various jobs so that he can show people his work.

The graphics process begins with Bird and the owner meeting together, and from there it becomes a customized process, Bird said.

He will discuss the name and its meaning for the owner, show him various typefaces, ask

if the owner wants any images, and then he’ll proceed to come up with a design. “I have a certain style, but none of my images look the same,” Bird said.

Based on the boat manufacturer, brand, and style, Bird has archived 28 years of graphic designs and more than 1,500 transoms that have been already measured so that he knows the exact measurements and spot for the boat name. He notes that 80 to 85 percent of the time, he already has the boat’s exact measurements.

Armed with the name, ideas about graphic images, Bird will create graphic design options and send them to the owner for review.

“My goal is to think like the owner, so there will be few discrepancies in our thoughts and actions,” Bird said.

With some names, such as “Crazy Beaches,” Bird will have fun with the design, but again it all depends on his feel for the boat’s owner. The names and the type of boat determine a lot for Bird’s design and graphics, but his goal is always to design a graphic that suits the owner, Bird said.

As an aside, Bird said that owners who believe that putting classic names on their boats takes less time than more modern ones would be sadly mistaken.

Once the owner has reviewed the options and decided on one particular graphic design, Bird will begin and complete the installation process. He notes that no job is complete until both the owner and designer are satisfied. “We always ask the owner, ‘Is perfect good enough?’”

Bird said.

The sales effort When it comes to marketing his work, Bird says that it speaks for itself. He notes that word of mouth is the best advertising tool he has for getting information out to the boating world about his craft.

“Boaters tell each other about their boats, and they’re the best advertisers for me,” Bird said. He said that approximately 30 to 35 percent of his work is repeat business.

The biggest challenge he faces is that manufacturers make subtle changes in their boat designs, and in some cases, this means that he has to alter his designs.

“Boats have latch handles in some of the weirdest places, but we work around them,” he noted.

Another challenge deals with the customized, creative efforts. “A lot of people come to me because they want customized designs, ones that will make their boats stand out from the crowd,” Bird said. There’s nothing wrong with this desire, and Vinyl Graphix gladly takes on any boat name and designs, but this comes at a price. At the same time, Bird tells customers that he’s as picky as they are when it comes to adding a name to their prized possessions.

More information To get in contact with Chuck Bird and his graphic design firm for boats, Vinyl Graphix, Inc., either call him at 586-774-1188, or email him directly at: cb@VinylGraphix.com or visit the company website: VinylGraphix.com.

greatlakesboating.com | 29

SAFETY TIPS FOR SCUBA DIVING FROM A BOAT M

any boaters use their boats not just for cruising or fishing, but also as a platform to launch fun watersports activities such as swimming, snorkeling, or wakeboarding. In regions blessed with clear water, interesting underwater terrain, and abundant sea life, scuba diving from a boat is also a popular pastime. But as Capt. Will Beck, owner of Sea Tow Palm Beach (Florida) and a certified scuba diver for more than 40 years, said, this adventurous underwater sport requires training and experience, not only for the scuba divers, but also for the boat operators.

“At Sea Tow Palm Beach, we often see scuba divers who’ve asked a friend with little or no boating experience to run their boat for them while they dive,” says Capt. Beck. “It’s just patently unsafe, because the boat operator might not know how to use the VHF radio or GPS, or can’t re-start the boat after turning the engines off.”

Beck offers the following tips for scuba divers and boat operators.

Tip 1:

Always scuba dive from a boat with an experienced boater at the helm, no matter if you own the boat or it belongs to the operator.

Tip 2:

The dive or “diver down” flag, a distinctive red flag with a white stripe running from its upper left to lower right corner, is an essential safety tool to have aboard the boat whenever one goes scuba diving, along with a

30 GLB | May/June 2015

means to fly it from the vessel’s highest point. In addition, divers can purchase a dive flag mounted on a float or buoy to tow along with them during the dive. Passing boaters who see the flag must avoid it by a minimum distance mandated by the state where they are boating. In Florida, for example, that distance is 300 feet, unless one is in a narrow navigation channel such as an inlet, when it goes down to 100 feet.

“We see an awful lot of divers who go out without dive flags,” Capt. Beck said. “In other cases, passing boaters don’t understand or recognize that they have to keep their distance or they are on autopilot and not looking out!”

Tip 3:

In order to stay visible to boaters, Capt. Beck recommends that divers bring a “safety sausage” along with them every time they dive. “It’s an inflatable orange wand, about four or five feet in length,” he said. “Upon surfacing, the divers can hold it up so other boats won’t hit them and their own boat can locate them more easily.”

Tip 4:

“Stay on top of the weather,” Capt. Beck noted.

“We’ve had divers go into the water when a big front is coming down the coast. When the front hits, the divers are 10 minutes into the dive, and they don’t realize there is driving rain on the surface. The boat operator panics because he can’t see the divers, and calls Sea Tow. We’ve gone to assist so many times in this situation.”

Tip 5:

Capt. Beck also reminds people who take scuba divers out in a boat to learn about the local currents. “When the divers are in the water doing a drift dive, sometimes the boat operator will lose them because he/she doesn’t understand the current. An inexperienced operator will maintain a position by a buoy, and the divers will resurface in a completely different spot. If the boat operator puts the boat in neutral, on the other hand, the boat will drift with the current in the same direction as the divers, and it will be close to them when they come back up.”

By following these safety tips, both boaters and scuba divers will be in the best position to make their dives again and again.

ABOUT SEA TOW PALM BEACH

Sea Tow Palm Beach is owned and operated by Capt.

Will Beck. It serves Sea Tow members and other boaters in the Atlantic coastal region of South Florida from Hobe Sound Bridge to Boca Raton.

For more information, call 561-844-8056 or visit www.seatow.com/palmbeach.

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Marine Retailer OPENS NEW CHICAGO STORE

West Marine, the world’s largest boating equipment and water-life outfitter, opened its flagship Midwest store in Chicago on April 23. The company held Grand Opening festivities Apr. 23-26. Grand Opening events included a charity cruise to benefit non-profits, seminars and tips from industry experts, product demonstrations, merchandise giveaways, and a raffle.

The new store stocks everything from weatherproof gear to kayaks to sailing equipment and parts and accessories. In addition to core boating equipment, such as maintenance supplies, trailer supplies, and an engine parts counter, the store will have hundreds of marine electronics units on display for mariners to touch and test.

The new location will also serve as the company’s Midwest hub for Port Supply, the wholesale division of West Marine. The Port Supply hub will serve as a resource for marine businesses, including professional boat builders, boatyards, boat dealers, and governmental agencies.

Perspective At 20,000 sq. ft., the new store will be the largest West Marine store in the Midwest. It is nearly three times the size of the company’s previous store in the city of Chicago.

32 GLB | May/June 2015

At a ribbon-cutting ceremony opening the store, Alderman Walter Burnett Jr. of the 27th Ward said he was excited to have West Marine build this store. “We helped with rezoning, allowing a retail store to be built here,” said Burnett. He added that the key to building this store was to hold community meetings explaining the benefits of this operation and then receiving strong community support for the effort.

Matt Hyde, president and chief executive officer, West Marine, said the new facility offers more selections and super savings for boaters.

“The Chicago area is a great area for boating, and we want to serve these boaters by offering them a large selection of items to choose from,” he said.

Hyde notes that it took two years to build this store, due mainly to the strict permitting and building regulations in Chicago. “This is one year more than we normally plan for our stores, but this (Chicago) store is well worth it,” Hyde said.

Asked what the expectations are for this store, Hyde replied that it should achieve a 15 percent return on investment, and its most popular selling items will be: marine electronics in all shapes and sizes, including GPS/fishfinders, thermal cameras, and sonars; maintenance items, such as bottom paints; and gear and apparel.

(L-R) Randy Repass, Ald. Walter Burnett, Pat O’Donnell, Gary Sibilski, Barry Kelley, and Matt Hyde

“I’ve spent most of my life on the Great Lakes, and I couldn’t be happier to ensure everyone in Chicago and the surrounding areas have top-notch products and equipment they need to have amazing experiences on the water,” said Gary Sibilsky, Chicago West Marine general manager.

The future Even as West Marine was just opening its new store, both Hyde and Ald. Burnett said there’s something new already in the works. “We’re looking at the possibility of putting in a dock since we’re located right on the Chicago River,” Hyde said. Burnett added, “If it [West Marine] plans to put in on a dock on the Chicago River, we’ll do whatever we can to make it happen.”

also be local regulations pertaining to speed and hours in areas of operation. And, of course, file a float plan with a close friend or family member for every outing.

greatlakesboating.com | 39

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Great Lakes

ITN | GREAT LAKES

CHICAGO IN-WATER SHOW CANCELLED As a result of feedback from the Chicagoland boating industry and National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) stakeholders, the decision has been made not to produce the Progressive ® Insurance Chicago In-Water Boat Show ® scheduled for June 11-14, 2015. There was not enough market demand or available inventory to warrant an acceptable selling environment for exhibitors and a quality event for attendees, NMMA said.

The consensus is that the industry would be better served focusing on the recently merged, all-new Progressive Insurance ® Chicago Boat, RV & Strictly Sail Show ®, at McCormick Place, which will take place next year from January 14-18. NMMA plans to concentrate its efforts on the newly expanded winter show, a combination of Strictly Sail ® Chicago and the Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show ®, and focus on making it the largest

comprehensive boating event in the Midwest and ideal sales environment for exhibitors.

The NMMA is hopeful this shift in focus to Chicago’s largest boat show will continue to help grow recreational boating in the Midwest.

MINNESOTA POSTPONES AIS TRAILER DECAL PROGRAM The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has postponed the new aquatic invasive species training and trailer decal program that was set to launch on January 31 so that legislators can consider making changes to the program.

Under a law passed by the state Legislature in 2012, anyone trailering a boat or water-related equipment, such as docks and lifts, in Minnesota is required to take aquatic invasive species training and display a decal on their trailer. The effective date for implementing this law is July 1, 2015.

“With the legislative interest in this educational program and ongoing discussions about possible changes, we are postponing the launch until we see if the Legislature acts this session to modify the program,” said Bob Meier, DNR assistant commissioner.

The DNR supports the education that would be provided under this law, but recognizes there are some concerns with the way the law is currently written. For example, as the law is currently written, people transporting boats on trailers through Minnesota to another destination would be required to take the course and display a decal even if they don’t put their boat in Minnesota waters.

Since the training and decal are currently not required until July 1, the DNR wants to remind people that there will be time to see what happens legislatively and still take the course and receive decals. The agency will post online (www.news.dnr.state.mn.us) any updates on trailers and alert the media if there are any program changes.

HEALTHY SOILS HEALTHY WATERS INITIATIVE A new initiative, Healthy Soils for Healthy Waters (HSHW), brings together top researchers and representatives from government, the agricultural community, and environmental groups to develop best management practices for the agricultural lands that impact the Great Lakes and Mississippi River watersheds.

The HSHW Initiative is a collaborative multi-year effort organized around the development of data-driven, region-specific case studies highlighting best management practices to reduce nutrient exports to water resources. It held its first workshop in the fall of 2014, led by Ohio State University with support from Greenleaf Advisors.

34 GLB | May/June 2015

At that workshop, participants presented and discussed current nutrient management options, performance data, and their efficacy at multiple scales. The next step in the process is to convene the workshop participants in May for the Hypoxia Task Force & SERA 46 meeting and in Dec. 2015, they will present their data-driven case study strategies at a symposium in Memphis, Tenn.

The goal of the HSHW Initiative is to deliver science-based, stakeholder-driven, and region-specific case studies that local, state, and federal governments can use to meet national water goals. The best way to do this is by delivering the case studies to key audiences who can then determine which

strategies are appropriate for the range of climatic, agricultural, and soil settings at multiple scales within the study areas.

Case studies will be publicly available for use by key audiences in the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins. Subsequent Symposia will update current undertakings and develop new case studies in the region.

To learn more about HSHW, contact John Andersen, jandersen@greenleafadvisors.net, or Andy Ward, ward.2@osu.edu.

ITN | GREAT LAKES

SPRING BROOK MARINA EXPANDS TO TRAVERSE CITY Spring Brook Marina has added a new office location with broker representation in Traverse City, Mich. Spring Brook will now present the Prestige Yachts line in the Great Lakes region through the Traverse City location and has expanded its broker network by adding Bill Allgaier of Harbor View Yacht Sales in Traverse City.

Allgaier has more than 25 years of industry experience as a broker and surveyor in the Northern Michigan market.

Jim Thorpe, President of Spring Brook Marina, described the new location in these terms, “With the huge success of the Prestige Yachts line in the Great Lakes market, we felt the need for growth and see the Northern Michigan market as being perfect for Prestige

Yachts and Spring Brook Marina. Bill (Allgaier) will be a great fit to our team. He already has had proven success in the area, and we are excited to have someone as qualified and knowledgeable about boats as Bill onboard our team.”

Spring Brook Marina has three locations in Illinois, one in Eastlake, Ohio, and now one in Traverse City, Mich. Thorpe added, “Our goal is to be able to bring the Prestige Yachts line to all of the Great Lakes market through strategic brokers and service partners.

We are a service company first, and that has been the key to our success and longevity.”

FIRST OHIO BOATING SUMMIT DEBUTS IN MAY The Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources (ODNR) will hold the first Ohio Boating Summit on Monday, May 4, at the Nationwide and Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center, Columbus, Ohio. Anyone interested in paddling, fishing, or boating is encouraged to attend this summit.

The summit will provide an opportunity for a number of experts to share their experiences and create a dialogue between ODNR

boating constituents, boating partners, and the public. This summit will encourage a forum for networking while educating attendees on the current topics and trends in boating in the Buckeye State.

Boating Summit presenters include: • Flying Horse Farms (keynote speaker) • Ohio State Parks • Ohio Travel Association • OSU Extension • Ohio Sea Grant • Ohio Fish Management

The one-day conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The registration fee is $25, $10 with a student ID, and $10 for groups of six or more. The opportunity to earn continuing education unit (CEU) credits with this event is available. Lunch may be purchased for $11.50 for people who preregister for the summit.

Registration is available the day of the summit beginning at 8 a.m. when the doors open, with the event starting at 9 a.m. Registration can also be done via email. For more information, go to: watercraft.ohiodnr.gov.

IISG FUNDS GREAT LAKES FISHING AND NUTRIENT POLLUTION RESEARCH Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG) announced three grants for research projects that will use existing data and tools to bolster the success of nutrient reduction plans and determine the economic value of southern Lake Michigan’s recreational fishery. The three projects will receive a total of $300,000 over the next two years.

One project will help watershed planners more effectively tackle nutrient pollution. Bernard Engel and other Purdue University researchers will develop an adaptive management framework to help watershed planners identify and prioritize the most effective ways to reduce nutrients in their region. The tool will also make it possible to monitor the success of nutrient strategies and make adjustments over time.

Researchers in Illinois and Indiana will also use Sea Grant funding to assess the economic value of recreational fishing in southern

Lake Michigan. Sergiusz Czesny and Craig Miller from the Illinois Natural History Survey will survey anglers in the Illinois and Indiana waters of Lake Michigan to determine how far they traveled, how much they spent on equipment or to charter a boat, and which species they hope to catch. Answers will be used to calculate the direct and indirect economic impacts of southern Lake Michigan angling, including the number of jobs supported by the industry.

In addition to estimating the value of a recreational fishing trip in southern Lake Michigan, Purdue University’s Mitchell Zischke and Benjamin Gaming will examine how management practices and environmental changes have impacted economic drivers like trip frequency, time spent on the water, and catch total. The project will shed light on the barriers to further economic growth and provide managers with strategies to overcome them.

greatlakesboating.com | 35

Great Lakes

ITN | GREAT LAKES

YACHT INSURANCE PROGRAM LAUNCHED The Norman-Spencer Agency, Inc., Dayton, Ohio, a leading national property and casualty insurance provider, is now offering yacht insurance through its marine services division.

The Trade Winds Insurance Program will provide flexible pricing and underwriting guidelines for yachts up to $2 million, including high limits for standard coverages at no cost and a suite of easily endorsed options. The new program for large yachts greatly expands the agency’s 35-year

AquaPac program for small to mediumsized vessels, Paul Sexton, vice president of Norman-Spencer’s marine insurance services division, said.

Both programs provide broad, affordable coverage that accommodates the full spectrum of boats, from personal watercraft to large sail and power yachts. Norman-Spencer

is also the endorsed consumer insurance product of the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, a national association representing boat and engine dealers and other retailers across North America.

Norman-Spencer provides industry-leading insurance services to clients and insurance buyers nationwide with more than 10 proprietary in-house property and casualty insurance programs covering various industries, including marine.

ODNR AWARDS MORE THAN $575,000 FOR MARINE PATROLS Twenty-three Ohio communities will receive a total of $575,745.53

counties, as well as smaller communities located in Knox,

from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to support

Pickaway, and Scioto counties.

local marine patrol units. Provided by the ODNR Division of Watercraft, these assistance funds represent a continued

In 2012, Ohio had a record 435,310 registered recreational

effort to keep Ohio waterways safe, while enhancing recreational

watercraft, ranking ninth nationally. Among this total is a rapidly

boating experiences.

growing number of registered canoes and kayaks that has more than doubled since 2001 and now represents one of every four

The 2015 Marine Patrol Assistance Grants will help local law

watercraft registered in Ohio. As many as 3 million Ohioans enjoy

enforcement agencies provide emergency response to boating-

recreational boating statewide each year on the Ohio River and

related incidents, conduct routine waterway patrols, and purchase

Lake Erie, as well as on numerous inland lakes, rivers, and other

safety equipment for use on marine patrol vessels. The recipient

waterways. A list of Marine Patrol Assistance Grant recipients is

agencies are located in counties statewide, including large urban

available online at www.watercraft.ohiodnr.gov/grants.

areas such as Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton, and Montgomery

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY--50 YEARS OF SERVICE Fifty years ago, boating on the Great Lakes was a real joy. Gas cost $.31 a gallon, mailing a postcard from the marina only cost five cents, and the weekends were full of boaters, waterskiers, and sportsfishermen who spent hours on the water during the day and evenings with their fellow boaters sharing fish stories and the day’s catch.

It was during 1965 when Chuck Sooy began his career in the marine industry at Romp’s Water Port in Vermillion, Ohio. With a firm handshake from Rob Romp, the founder and owner of the business, Chuck became a charter member of Romp’s service department. In the beginning, the new department serviced OMC products, such as Evinrude and Johnson outboards and OMC 36 GLB | May/June 2015

Penn Yan, and Boston Whaler boats. In 1980, he became a certified Master Mechanic for Mercruiser engines and outdrives. In subsequent years, he was honored for outstanding service and professionalism and for providing the highest level of service for his customers. Over the years Chuck has maintained his certification and in the winter can be found in the “big shop” repairing poorly performing motors and broken wooden hulls.

King Cobra outdrives, as well as the inboards found on the lapstrake classics, Lyman Boats.

From that humble beginning, Chuck branched out to selling and servicing Lyman,

This April, Chuck Sooy celebrated 50 years of service at Romp’s and to the boating community of Lake Erie. His knowledge and dedication to his customers have made him a local legend on the shore of Lake Erie.

ITN | FISHING

Fishing

TRAVERSE CITY FISHING PIER HAS PROS AND CONS Traverse City’s city council is considering the addition of a 500-foot long, $5.3 million fishing pier that would extend into the mouth of the Boardman River. Some anglers have cheered the proposal as yielding a very productive fishing spot, while others have criticized it for being located in a spot devoid of fish, according to an article

by Brian McGillivary on the Traverse City Record-Eagle website, www.record-eagle.com.

Critics of the fishing pier contend that it won’t yield good angling.

On the other hand, long-time anglers in the bay contend that the 500-foot-long pier will only improve fishing and create access for the “average fisherman.”

Jesse Brocklehead, a long-time angler, said the pier might initially disrupt fishing, but over the long-term it will only improve fishing opportunities. He added that he’s willing to try out the pier if it’s built.

Heather Hettinger, a fisheries management biologist for the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources based in Traverse City, said the river mouth is a very productive fishing spot, providing a source of nutrients and food for fish that come and go from the river year-round.

Hettinger notes that the rock structure from any pier will attract increased numbers of bait fish, rock bass, yellow perch, small mouth, and suckers. The rocks will attract smaller perch and provide them a spawning habitat, but if the pier extends far enough it might also reach the jumbo perch that lurk in the deeper waters of West Bay.

MINNESOTA SETS LIMIT FOR LAKE TROUT As part of an emergency effort to protect the lake trout population in Lake Superior, specifically the Apostle Islands region of the lake, the Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR) has reduced the number of daily bagged trout to two from three.

adopted this rule based on population assessments over the last six to eight years. These results indicated a decline in the lake trout population tied to harvest levels, according to a January news report on TV station KBJR.

The 2015 emergency rule states that of the two lake trout, one can measure between 20 to 25 inches, while the other can be longer than 35 inches.

this year. The commercial and recreational lake trout fishing seasons run through Sept.

30, 2015.

The goal of the new regulation is to reduce the overall harvesting of lake trout to 50,000

Terry Margenau, DNR Lake Superior fisheries supervisor, said his agency

Lake trout are a slow-growing species, and the emergency rule is designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the fishery, as well as the welfare of state-licensed commercial fishers, Chippewa commercial fishers, recreational anglers, and associated businesses that depend on lake trout.

WISCONSIN PROPOSES NEW TROLLING RULE A new rule that allows motor trolling on all inland Wisconsin lakes is expected to be in place sometime this year.

The rule, which has been approved by Gov. Scott Walker and the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board, must still undergo legislative review. Currently, trolling is allowed on one or more waters in 63 counties statewide, and the new proposed rule would extend the opportunity to all waters, said Tim Simonson, a DNR fisheries management specialist.

Trolling means fishing by trailing any lure, bait, or similar device that may be used to attract or catch fish from a boat propelled by means other than drifting or rowing. Drifting or “row trolling” is allowed on all waters statewide.

38 GLB | May/June 2015

Simonson said the proposed rule would reduce any confusion that may occur when a technique called “position fishing” is used. Position fishing involves fishing from a boat with a line that extends vertically into the water while the boat is maneuvered with a motor.

The proposed rule, which includes a three-year sunset that expires on May 4, 2018, would allow anglers to trail at least one sucker, minnow, or other bait or lure behind a moving motor boat, regardless of whether the occupants are casting other lures. It also would provide additional fishing opportunities for anglers who may have difficulty fishing by other methods and would eliminate the need for disabled anglers to apply for trolling permits.

ITN | FISHING

LAKE ERIE COMMITTEE SETS FISH HARVEST LEVELS The Lake Erie Committee (LEC), consisting of fishery managers from Michigan, New York, Ohio, Ontario, and Pennsylvania—the five jurisdictions that manage the Lake Erie fishery—agreed to a total allowable catch (TAC) of 4.114 million walleye and 10.528 million pounds of yellow perch for 2015.

(Walleye are allocated by number of fish; yellow perch are allocated in pounds.)

These TAC recommendations represent a 3 percent increase in allowable catch for walleye and a 5 percent decrease in yellow perch. The Lake Erie Committee’s TAC recommendations are consistent with the status of Lake Erie’s fish

populations, taking into the account the goal of stable harvesting.

The LEC recommended a 2015 walleye TAC of 4.114 million fish, compared to 4.027 million fish in 2014. Each Lake Erie jurisdiction is responsible for implementing their portion of the TAC. So, of the 4.114 million fish, Ohio will be allocated 2.103 million fish, Ontario 1.771 million, and Michigan 0.240 million. Harvest limits in the eastern basin are established separately by Ontario, Pennsylvania, and New York and remain consistent with lakewide conditions and objectives.

The LEC recommended a 2015 binational TAC of 10.528 million pounds of yellow perch, a decrease from last year’s allocation of 11.081 million pounds.

Under the 2015 TAC recommendation, Ontario will receive 5.052 million pounds, Ohio 4.505 million pounds, Michigan 0.145 million pounds, New York 0.162 million pounds, and Pennsylvania 0.664 million pounds.

The Great Lakes Fishery Commission, a Canadian and U.S. agency on the Great Lakes, facilitates the LEC’s work. Each year the committee recommends a total allowable catch for walleye and yellow perch.

OHIO RELEASES RAINBOW TROUT INTO LAKES More than 98,000 rainbow trout will be released into 63 public lakes and ponds in Ohio on selected dates through May, according to the Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources (ODNR).

Rainbow trout are a cold-water species that do not reproduce naturally in Ohio waters, and these releases provide anglers with the opportunity to pursue a fish they may not otherwise have the opportunity to catch. The trout are raised at state fish hatcheries and released at suitable locations to provide additional opportunities for anglers. They measure 10-13 inches before the ODNR Division of Wildlife releases them. The daily catch limit for inland lakes is five trout.

Anglers age 16 and older must have a current Ohio fishing license to fish in state public waters. The 2015-2016 fishing license can be purchased online at www.wildlife.ohiodnr.gov or at participating retail outlets. A full list of retailers is provided online.

Ohio residents who were born on or after Jan. 1, 1938, and have resided in Ohio for the past six months are eligible to purchase a reduced-cost resident senior license for $10.

Sales of fishing licenses along with the Sport Fish Restoration (SFR) program continue to fund the operation of the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s fish hatcheries. No state tax dollars are used for this activity.

This is a user-pay, user-benefit program.

STEELHEAD EGG COLLECTION ON LITTLE MANISTEE RIVER The Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources collected steelhead eggs at Little Manistee River weir in Stronach, which has served as the sole source for winter-run steelhead eggs since 1968. The eggs are dispatched to fish hatcheries in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana, which produce yearling steelhead © Michigan DNR

that are stocked in select tributaries of all the Great Lakes.

Egg-take operations began in mid-March with the lowering of the weir grates. This stopped the upstream steelhead migration in the Little Manistee River and diverted the fish into holding ponds. Usually during the first two weeks of April the fish ripen and egg-take operations begin, although this year’s harsh winter conditions could delay these operations by one to two weeks. These activities continue daily until the established egg quota has been reached.

During egg-take operations, unripe or “green” steelhead are passed upstream to sustain the wild Little Manistee River steelhead run.

Steelhead that are spawned during operations also are passed upstream and many eventually return to Lake Michigan, as this species is capable of spawning multiple times. Once the quota of eggs is reached, the weir grates are removed and all remaining fish are allowed to migrate upstream.

Steelhead provide one of Michigan’s premier sporting opportunities for both Great Lakes open water and tributary stream fishing.

greatlakesboating.com | 39

Marina

ITN | MARINA

BUFFALO MARINA GETS MAJOR RENOVATION Plans to upgrade slips, electrical and water service, dining facilities, and other amenities at the marina at Buffalo Harbor State Park moved one step closer to reality when the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp. (ECHDC) and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation selected Safe Harbor Development LLC as the new operator of the state’s largest marina.

approximately $10 million on the marina during the first five years of operation.

“Upgrading the marina at Buffalo Harbor State Park is just one step in transforming the Buffalo waterfront into a dynamic and re-energized destination for visitors to enjoy,” said Rose Harvey, State Parks Commissioner.

Provided by NYS OPRHP

Under the terms of the lease, Safe Harbor will oversee the 1,037-slip marina, its 8,000 sq. ft. restaurant and administration building, 214 parking spaces, bait shop, and storage facilities. State Parks will oversee slip rentals and operations until a final lease is approved with the company.

“Safe Harbor Development is committed to improving the marina at Buffalor Harbor State Park and, in the process, Buffalo’s revitalized waterfront,” said Darby Campbell, owner of Safe Harbor Development LLC. The company currently operates marinas, restaurants, RV parks, and housing developments throughout Tennessee.

Safe Harbor’s proposed capital plans calls for replacing old and decaying docks, redesigning the slip layout, and constructing a new full-service restaurant onsite. The company said that it plans to spend

Along with managing marina operations, Safe Harbor will oversee the parking lots related to the marina and several buildings on the property.

OHIO MARINA COMPLETES $2 MILLION RENOVATION Park Place Marina, Put-in-Bay, Ohio is preparing to open for its first full boating season in May 2015 after undergoing a major $2 million renovation and expansion.

KS Associates Inc., Elyria, Ohio, did design, permitting, and construction engineering services for the project.

The marina is located on Put-In-Bay, a popular Lake Erie boating destination on South Bass Island, located five miles off the shores of Sandusky and Port Clinton, Ohio. The marina is a remodeling of the former Ladd’s Marina, and now offers nearly twice the amount of docking space that Ladd’s did.

Floating docks, which require less maintenance, have replaced deteriorated steel crib and fixed docks. The 60-slip marina can now accept boats up to 50 feet in length and offers amenities including restaurants, private showers, wireless Internet, golf cart rentals, 30- and 50-amp electrical service, mooring buoys, and water taxi service.

In addition to offering public docking spaces, Park Place Marina services the new Park Place Boat Club, a private club with more than 300 members. The project also included a new 10-foot-wide, double sheet pile breakwater that extends 266 feet northeast into Put-In-Bay Harbor and wraps around the face of the marina toward the east. The

breakwater absorbs the impact of waves, offering boaters a more comfortable and safe journey into the marina and to the docks.

SOUTH HAVEN MARINA SEEKS TWO DNR GRANTS South Haven, Michigan’s South Side Municipal Marina, a transient facility, is applying to the state’s Dept. of Natural Resources for two grants. One would allow the marina to put a new roof on its administration building and the other would allow it to complete preliminary engineering work on a marina expansion project, according to an article by Andrew Lersten in The Herald Palladium of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph.

One grant the city is seeking would give Grand Haven $125,000 for a marina building renovation project. The marina’s administration building was built in 1990, still has its original roof, and engineers and construction professionals said it needs to be replaced.

The second grant would be for $50,000 to finance half the expense of an engineering study on two topics: an expansion of the existing 40 GLB | May/June 2015

marina docks and how to reduce water surges into the marina and harbor.

Harbormaster Paul VandenBosch said that possible solutions for reducing the water surges in the marina and harbor may include installing shoreline rip rap or submerged, pier-like structures, but only an engineering study could tell whether these are feasible.

VandenBosch said the state grant would only pay for the study, and would not include putting its recommendations into place.

Regarding the marina expansion, plans call for extending the marina’s main dock westward. The scope of the project has not yet been determined, and engineering work would only proceed if the pre-enginering grant was approved by the Waterways Commission, VandenBosch explained.

ITN | MARINA

ALTON MARINA LOOKS AT DREDGING On the eve of its 20th anniversary in 2016, Alton Marina, Alton, Ill., a municipally-owned business, is preparing to have parts of its facility dredged, according to an article by Linda N. Weller on the website: www.thetelegraph.com.

seek bids for two dredging methods: hydraulic and mechnical. Hydraulic dredging pumps out the silt through a pipeline; mechanical dredging uses mechanical machinery, such as an excavator, to scoop out the material.

“A couple years ago, during the last flood, we took on some silt,” said Karen Baker-Brncic, general manager of Parrot Pointe Marine, Inc., which manages the marina for the city.

“We need to get it dredged out of there and the marina cleaned up.”

The last time the harbor was dredged, the marina used hydraulic dredging because this was the only means approved by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Since that time, the USACE has modified its permit to allow mechanical dredging.

The Alton city council approved a resolution calling for Baker-Brncic to solicit bids for

Baker-Brncic said the entire marina would not have to be dredged. “It’s only at the

Greg Caffey, Alton director of development and housing, said the funds for the dredging will come from the Marina/River District account. That money is generated by rentals of the 295 slips, fuel purchases, and merchandise sales at the marina.

Baker-Brncic said the marina is selfsupporting and does not receive funding from the city’s General Fund for operations

dredging the harbor. She said that she would

entrance and the thoroughfare,” she added.

and capital improvements.

WORK CONTINUES ON TRENT PORT MARINA Trent Port Marina, Quinte West, Ontario, said the first phase of its new marina, the building and installation of 212 new slips, should be completed by the Memorial Day weekend, despite a slight delay in installing two new breakwaters.

Kehoe Marine, the primary contractor for the 212 slips to be installed at Trent Port Marina, said in a press release that everything is on schedule for completion of the floating docks and its amenities by the Memorial Day weekend.

The company added that installation of two of the three breakwaters at the new marina has been delayed due to structural

engineering concerns, but the south breakwater will be completely installed by the May holiday weekend, and it will provide ample protection for boaters.

Installation of the north and east breakwaters has been delayed so that new castings can be made to ensure that they will provide ample protection for the boats. The design alterations to the north and east breakwaters were required to satisfy the city that the structural integrity of the breakwater units was sufficient for the location. As a result, installation is scheduled for the end of June, six weeks later than originally planned.

BOYNE CITY SEEKS GRANT MONEY FOR MARINA Boyne City (Mich.) officials are seeking grant money from the state to pay for as much as half of the cost of the engineering work needed for a proposed expansion of the city’s marina, according to an article by Steve Zucker in the Petoskey News.

The city commission approved an application that will be sent to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Waterways Commission seeking 50 percent of the estimated $50,000-$60,000 cost of engineering work on the marina project.

Late last year, the city received permit approval from both the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and the Army Corps of Engineers for the expansion project.

The permit calls for the marina to more than double its capacity from the current 41 slips to 98 slips.

Currently the marina offers two 50-foot slips, six 44-foot slips, twelve 40-foot slips, four 35-foot slips and seventeen 30-foot slips.

25 feet to 40 feet and the construction of a new floating 70-foot by 16-foot convenience dock accessed from a floating gangway.

The renovation permit would allow the expansion to two 80-foot slips, seven 60-foot slips, nine 50-foot slips, twenty-three 40-foot slips, thirty-five 30-foot slips and twenty-two 25-foot slips.

Under the plan, a 325-foot by 120-foot area along the shoreline west of the harbormaster’s building would be dredged/excavated to create enough water depth for the new piers in that area.

The permit calls for the removal of the seven floating wave attenuators that currently protect the marina and would replace them with an 825-foot-long and 12-foot-wide structure that would serve both as a wave attenuator and a dock with 43 slips ranging from 30 feet to 80 feet. The permit also would allow for the replacement of the existing floating piers in the marina and reconfiguring them to accommodate 46 slips ranging from

The estimated cost of the marina expansion project is $4 million.

The permit does not require the city to build the total marina expansion project. Michael Cain, city manager, said that the city could build all, some, or none of the project under the permit, which is valid for three years after its approval.

greatlakesboating.com | 41

ITN | NATIONAL

National

SARDINE FISHING ON WEST COAST CLOSED Fisheries managers on the West Coast have decided to call off the sardine fishing season that was scheduled to begin on July 1 because of rapidly declining numbers, according to an April 14 article by Jeff Barnard that appeared on the website: www.columbian.com/news.

The Pacific Fishery Management Council made the decision in April, saying that estimates of sardines have fallen below a mandatory fishing shutdown. “We know that boats will be tied up, but the goal is to return this to a productive fishery,” David Crabble, a council member and commercial fishing boat owner, said in a press release.

Sardine fishing revived in the 1990s when fisheries developed in Oregon and Washington waters, but population estimates have

been declining since 2006 and catch values since 2012. The reasons are not well understood, though it is widely accepted that huge swings in populations are natural and generally are related to water temperatures.

Council member Frank Lockhart of NOAA Fisheries Service said that several other fisheries, such as salmon, lingcod, and rockfish have recovered after going through steep declines.

Geoff Shester, California campaign director for the conservation group Oceana, said this is the first shutdown of sardine fishing on the West Coast since the council began regulating harvests in 2000. He added that sardine fishing should have been shut down years ago, when it first became clear that more fish were being harvested than reproduced.

BOATERS REMINDED TO ‘WEAR IT!’ THIS NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK Always wearing a life jacket is one of the simplest and most effective life-saving strategies for recreational boaters, remind boating safety advocates for National Safe Boating Week, May 16-22.

National Safe Boating Week is the official launch of the 2015 North American Safe Boating Campaign. The year-long campaign promotes boating safety and voluntary, consistent wearing through the national theme, Wear It! U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the officially reported cause of death in three-fourths of recreational boating fatalities in 2013, and that 84 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets.

Throughout the campaign, Wear It! will also remind boaters of the importance of boating sober and knowing navigational rules, such as operator’s responsibility, maintaining a proper lookout, safe speed, crossing, meeting head-on and overtaking situations.

For recreational boaters looking to learn more, the National Safe Boating Council offers a free interactive resource about basic navigation rules, boatoncourse.com. Also, campaign partners will host local events, teach classes, offer on-water training, distribute educational materials, and perform free vessel safety checks.

Wear It! unites the efforts of a wide variety of boating safety advocates, including the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and Canadian Safe Boating Council with the National Safe Boating

Council. It is produced under a grant from the Sports Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, and it is administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.

LOW WATER LEVELS THREATEN GREAT SALT LAKE Faced with the prospect of not having access to the Great Salt Lake due to declining water levels, members of the Great Salt Lake Yacht Club pressed state legislators to come up with funds to dredge the lake. Their efforts did not fall on deaf ears as lawmakers found another $1.5 million to dredge the Great Salt Lake Marina, according to an article by Brett Prettyman on the website: www.sltrib.com.

marinas in 2015, and recommended that the funds go to nearby Utah Lake State Park Marina. Although the Great Salt Lake Marina has 320 rentable slips compared to the 52 at Utah Lake, Utah State Parks director Fred Hayes pointed out that both lakes need help, but there’s only enough money for one, and he recommended dredging funds for Utah Lake State Park Marina.

The number of boaters docking their vessels at the Great Salt Lake’s marina has dropped in recent years as water levels have declined. Without dredging, boaters fear that their boats would become wedged in the mud.

“When we started to look at the total number of launches and the ability to provide search and rescue missions, the greatest number of people could be affected by dredging Utah Lake,” Hayes said.

The problem is that Utah State Parks, which manages the Great Salt Lake State Park Marina, had only received $1.5 million to dredge state

For now, the Utah State Parks will start dredging at both marinas as soon as possible after July 1.

42 GLB | May/June 2015

ITN | NATIONAL

SENATE BILL WOULD REMOVE CORN-ETHANOL MANDATE U.S. Sens. Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) introduced the Corn Ethanol Mandate Elimination Act of 2015, which would eliminate only the corn ethanol mandate portion of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). This provision has been the main stumbling block for opponents of the E15 provision.

Although the bill, which was introduced in early March, does not specifically cap E10, which the marine industry supports, passage of the bill would remove the main driver of higher ethanol—corn.

its members call their elected lawmakers to become co-sponsors of the bill, which has both Democrat and Republican support.

“The RFS is a broken law, which sets unrealistic fuel mandates and requires a long-term fix from Congress,” the NMMA said in a released statement.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association applauds the bipartisan move

by Toomey and Feinstein as they work to address the RFS. BoatUS recommends that

The Senate bill is in addition to Rep. Bob Goodlatte’s Renewable Fuel Standard Elimination Act (H.R. 1461) and another proposal named the Renewable Fuel Standard Reform Act (H.R. 1462).

UNPRECEDENTED DECLINE IN CALIFORNIA FISHING The number of people fishing in California has dropped 55 percent since 1980, according to a recent survey undertaken by the California Sportfishing League (CSL). Although no one reason was given for this decline, Marko Milotic, head of the CSL, pointed to high costs and a lack of value as two of the main causes behind this unprecedented drop of recreational fishing in California.

“In 1980, California’s annual fishing license fee was $5. Today, California’s annual resident fishing license is the second highest in the country, at $47.01 for a base ‘annual’ license, excluding permits and stamps that a substantial number of anglers are required to purchase throughout the year,” according to the survey findings from the California Sportfishing League.

As a result, fewer Californians are being introduced to fishing and many more no longer participate in this family-oriented recreation.

The dramatic downward trend in the number of annual state fishing licenses should be a wakeup call for California policymakers, CSL concluded. If the state of California sees the value of recreational fishing and outdoor tourism, it needs to offer a better value and remove unwarranted barriers.

CSL said the one question it could not answer is whether policymakers will see high costs and barriers to participation as major factors in the decline of recreational fishing. It recommended the state Dept. of Fish and Wildlife undertake a complete review of its operations to reduce costs and make fishing more attractive to the state’s population.

NATIONWIDE EFFORT TO RETURN LAPSED BOATERS BEGINS The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF) launched its State Marketing Program on April 2. This is a nationwide effort to increase fishing license sales and boat registrations among lapsed participants.

The 2015 program, which is being conducted in partnership with 29 state agencies for the State Fishing License Marketing Program and 20 state agencies for the State Boat Registration Marketing Program, targets lapsed anglers and boaters with marketing materials that encourage them to buy a fishing license or register their boat.

The State Fishing License Marketing Program includes outreach to lapsed anglers who haven’t renewed their fishing license for at least one season. This year’s program will consist solely of email messaging in the 29 participating states.

The 2014 program resulted in more than 268,000 licenses being sold and $5.42 million in gross program revenue.

The State Boat Registration Marketing Program includes outreach to lapsed boaters who haven’t renewed their boat registration for at least one season. A direct marketing letter is being distributed to lapsed boaters in 20 states. The 2014 campaign resulted in

more than 43,000 boats re-registered and $1.6 million in gross program revenue.

RBFF entirely funds both programs, with states receiving all of the revenue that the programs generate. RBFF provides states with customizable marketing pieces.

RBFF also works with states to enhance their overall marketing and communications capacity, as well as ways to improve their fishing license and boat registration processes.

greatlakesboating.com | 43

ITN | SAILING

SAILFEST IN OCONTO The city of Oconto, located in Northeastern Wisconsin, is pleased to present “SailFest,” a new sailing festival that will be held on Saturday, June 20.

© Josh Pedroza

Octonto’s Breakwater Park will be the host site for “Sailfest,” a family/community celebration of sailing and the area’s waterways, specifically the Oconto River and the Bay of Green Bay. The highlight of the day will be sailing classes presented by International Youth Sailing Ltd. on the Bay of Green Bay from 1 to 6 p.m.

The north side of Oconto’s causeway on the Bay of Green Bay in Lake Michigan offers ideal conditions for sailing and will be the spot for the sailing lessons. In addition, attendees will be able to see first-hand Oconto’s recently-dredged channel to a 9-foot controlling depth and brand-new solar buoys that safely mark the revitalized channel.

Sailing

Because this will be a family celebration, “Sailfest” has children’s activities such as face-painting and balloon art, mouth-watering food choices and musicians during the day, and a Venetian Parade (sponsored by the local Oconto Yacht Club, Hi Seas Marina, and Sohr’s Harbor Shores) that will take place at dusk.

In addition to presenting sailing lessons at “Sailfest,” International Youth Sailing, Ltd. of Oshkosh will also be teaching sailing to kids this summer at a very reasonable rate (made possible through local sponsorships). The lessons will be held during a fourweek period in July and August.

Oconto invites local and out-of-town sailors and families to boat or drive over to see its parks and harbor and enjoy the festivities.

INAUGURAL CHICAGO YACHT CLUB GRAND PRIX INVITATIONAL The week leading up to the start of the 107th Chicago Yacht Club (CYC) Race to Mackinac will feature a new biennial regatta for high-performance racers, the first Chicago Yacht Club Grand Prix Invitational, on July 3-5, in Chicago. The regatta will be held in odd-numbered years leading up to the Chicago Mac and will feature New York Yacht Club/Swan 42s, Farr 40’s, TP 52’s and HPR Class designs in three days of high-performance sailing.

The CYC Grand Prix Invitational will be held in conjunction with the 2015 HPR Midwest Championships.

“Adding another high quality event prior to the Chicago Mac makes a summer on the Great Lakes really enticing to grand prix boats,” explained Jay Kehoe, On-theWater Director at CYC. “The CYC Grand Prix Invitational and the CYC Race to Mackinac will combine scores to create an exciting new opportunity to reward the best of both inshore and offshore racing.

The Chicago Mac Race, starting on July 11, will count as the distance portion, and the combined event scores will determine the winner of the overall CYC Grand Prix Invitational.”

Participants and their families and friends will also get to enjoy all the great events that Chicago has to offer over the long holiday weekend, including fireworks, neighborhood festivals and more.

The CYC Grand Prix Invitational will be held in alternating years, to match up with the years that the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac is held before the Bells Beer Bayview Race to Mackinac.

For more information, send inquiries to racecoordinator@chicagoyachtclub.org.

RACING YACHTS TO SET SAIL FROM CHICAGO’S SHORE Visitors and residents of the Windy City can test out their sea legs and competitive spirit in a state-of-the-art sailing yacht race as Next Level Sailing Chicago brings its fleet to the Lake Michigan shore in Chicago.

Famous Americas Cup yachts Stars and Stripes and Abracadabra will make their maiden voyages in Lake Michigan in May 2015. The yachts will be moored at Burnham Harbor.

Companies or individuals seeking a memorable, exhilarating experience can rent out each of the 80-foot, high-tech yachts. As many as 20 guests per yacht can enjoy the nautical racing lifestyle, perfect for a corporate outing, team building activity, or individual event. Next Level Sailing Chicago is currently the only place in the USA where guests can be involved in hands-on racing on the latest generation of America’s Cup yachts.

44 GLB | May/June 2015

Guests can be involved in the actual race to the extent they are comfortable, and no previous experience or special skills are required. A 3-hour private charter for each yacht and up to 20 guests comes with a maximum rate of $3,150, plus consideration for a gratuity for the four crew members, and a $4 per person docking fee. Soft beverages are available on board, and guests can choose to bring their own drinks, lunches, or snacks. If guests wish, arrangements can be made for both yachts to be rented out simultaneously.

Visit www.nextlevelsailingchicago.com or call 312-798-9807 for more information.

ITN | SAILING

MILLS TROPHY RACE The Mills Trophy Race, presented by the Toledo Yacht Club, will be held on June 5. The race is open to the following classes: PHRF, JAM, DoubleHanded, Multi-Hull and Classics. The three courses offered, depending on class and boat rating, all begin near the Toledo Harbor Light and end at a finish line off of South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay).

The starts will begin in the late afternoon and sailing will continue through the evening and night.

Upon finishing, the boats will proceed to the public docks in downtown Put-in-Bay. Although the race is the centerpiece, Mills Week, June 3-7, includes a number of other events. On the Friday evening preceding the race, the Mills Masters (sailors who have crewed or skippered in at least 25 Mills races)

are invited to a special picnic in their honor. On Wednesday, the winners of the previous year’s race will be feted at a banquet and awards presentation. Thursday evening is the famous Mills Party held on the lawn of the Toledo Yacht Club. This party is open to the public and offers an opportunity to see many of the boats that will race the next evening. A post-race party, held on Saturday afternoon at the Put-in-Bay Yacht Club, will include music, refreshments and the posting of race results.

REVAMPED OLYMPIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Following a $5 million donation by the AmericaOne Foundation, US Sailing has begun implementing a new-look Olympic Development Program (ODP), guided by its Project Pipeline strategic initiative.

Starting in March 2015, promising American youth sailors began to receive world-class coaching support from the program in highperformance classes.

“With the help of AmericaOne and other generous donors, we are excited to launch a completely revamped Olympic Development Program here in the US, and provide significantly improved training to youth athletes looking to increase their high-performance skills,” said Josh Adams, Managing Director of US Olympic Sailing. “We need to help driven youth sailors transition into high-performance boats, provide them with clear pathways in the sport of sailing, and get them the best possible coaching. Through the ODP, we will give dedicated youth athletes in the US a level of support that was previously unattainable. The ODP will strive to establish a culture of excellence with the highest standards, while serving as the top level of youth training in the US.”

Working in conjunction with the major American youth sailing institutions, classes and events already in place, the ODP will help guide the way for motivated sailors who are ready and looking to successfully transition from important skill-building classes like the Optimist, Sabot, Techno 293, and Club 420 into high-performance classes.

Additional information can be found at: www.ussailing.org/olympics/odp/.

NEW COMPETITION IN ANNAPOLIS TO NEWPORT RACE A significant influx of performance cruising designs has enabled the Annapolis-toNewport race committee to create a fun, new competition. The Manufacturer’s Trophy will promote friendly rivalry battles between boat types such as Beneteau, DuFour, J/Boats, Jeanneau, C&C-Tartan and Swan just to name a few.

we created the Performance Cruising class and the response has been very positive,” said Garth Hichens, a member of the organizing committee for the biennial event. “This class is not for the custom racing yachts, but rather for the production boat builders that specialize in performance cruiser-racers.”

“From the outset of planning for the 2015 Annapolis to Newport Race our goal was to increase participation. With that in mind,

The 35th edition of the Annapolis to Newport Race, which begins June 5, has already attracted 84 entries and

many of the registered boats fit into the Manufacturer’s class.

The Manufacturer’s Trophy will be presented to the manufacturer with at least five boats completing the race and whose top five boats score the lowest number of points using the low point scoring system, irrespective of what class they enter. The manufacturer will be presented a perpetual trophy, while each boat will receive an award.

greatlakesboating.com | 45

NEW PRODUCTS

PFDS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN Full Throttle® has added a Ladybug and an Astronaut design to its line of Water Buddies life jackets for small children. These vests fit children from 30 to 50 pounds and are designed to make wearing a PFD comfortable and fun.

Each Water Buddies vest has a uniquely shaped foam back that brings the designs to life. With soothing fabrics and lightweight, durable flotation foam, the vests are extremely comfortable.

All Water Buddies vests feature durable front-zippered closures with fully adjustable waist belts. An adjustable leg strap helps prevent the vest from riding up.

From $29.99 to $34.99 // 320-252-2160 // www.fullthrottlewatersports.com

KITS HELP DECK PLATES DOUBLE AS STORAGE Beckson Marine’s Stowaway Bag Plates and Kits help owners convert empty space below deck to a hidden storage spot. Adding a ditty bag to an existing Beckson Marine Deck Plate is a simple do-it-yourself conversion.

The nylon bag features a rigid ring that fits into a retaining ring on the deck plate that secures the bag. Bags are removable for access below deck and to carry items ashore. The nylon ditty bag is 12 inches in diameter. Extra-long 20-inch bags are available for fender storage.

The kits are available to retrofit Beckson’s 4-, 5-, 6-, and 8-inch ScrewOut and Twist-Out Deck Plates.

From $21.20 // 203-384-6954 // www.beckson.com

NOMADKEY AND NOMADCLIP NomadKey is a portable smartphone cable made in the shape of a house key that’s designed to fit onto a keychain, so a smartphone cable is always close. Use it to charge/sync a smartphone from any USB port, anywhere.

There are currently two version of these charge keys: a MFi certified Lightning cable for Apple devices and a Micro USB for most other devices.

The NomadClip is a portable charging cable in the shape of a carabiner, with versions available for both Apple and Android devices.

Lightning: $24.95;MicroUSB:$19.95;NomadClip: $39.95 // 415-400-4413 // hellonomad.com

46 GLB | May/June 2015

HIDE-AWAY MEDIA PLAYER The rugged and durable IP65-rated waterproof Aquatic AV BlueCube Media Player is designed to be installed completely hidden away, out-of-sight.

Bluetooth enabled smart or MP3 devices can be connected wirelessly to stream and control music directly from the device, or via remote controls (sold separately).

The unit features a 288W amplifier capable of powering up to 8x speakers, or a combination of speakers and subwoofers, 2x high-quality RCA (phono) pre-outs for connecting an external Aquatic AV amplifier or powered subwoofer. $159.99 // 408-559-1668 // www.aquaticav.com

NEW TV ANTENNAS The 3004, 3010, 3015, and 3019 models of the SeaWatch® series of marine TV antennas from Shakespeare® provide over-the-air digital HDTV to vessels.

Featuring omni-directional signal reception, there is no need to re-aim the antenna when a boat is in motion. Each model features a low-noise amplifier and AC, DC, and USB power adapters.

The antennas are built from UV-stable plastic with a high gloss finish and accept common 1-inch x 14-inch threaded mounts. Each model comes with 20 ft. of RG-59 coax cable and F-connectors.

From $56.99 // 803-227-1590 // www.shakespeare-marine.com

WATERPROOF BINOCULARS Weems & Plath Explorer binoculars float and feature an illuminated compass and range finder reticle for users taking readings on the water. Their light weight makes them well suited for safe navigation while racing or coastal cruising.

These binoculars, which are covered by a two-year warranty, feature fold-down eye cups and come with a soft black case, padded neck strap, and lens covers. $299.99 // 800-638-0428 // www.weems-plath.com

greatlakesboating.com | 47

BOAT CARE & FEEDING

ALUMINUM BUFFING COMPOUND Aurora Marine’s ALUMABUFF is a fast acting, water-based buffing compound especially formulated to easily remove stains, streaks, corrosion, salt damage and white cloud from aluminum pontoons and boats without destroying the mill finish.

The compound uses Hypexine to leach the stains to the surface where they can be buffed away instead of grinding away the boat’s damaged metal surface.

It has no VOCs, petrochemical solvents, waxes, or silicones to impact the environment or impair the adhesion of protective clear coats. Users will notice that there is no dust to breath or greasy, black, aluminum oxide residue to coat their skin. $27.95, 16 oz. bottle//866-214-3444 // www.auroramarine.com

OPENING PORTS Beckson Marine’s Newport Opening Ports are designed for maximum ventilation and illumination.

The Self Drain Opening model comes with an angled ramp molded on the inside of the spigot to promote drainage, while also allowing for thru-bolting. The internal incline sits tightly against the gasket and lens, omitting an exterior water retention ledge. They are best for mounting within 15° of vertical.

The Rain Drain version is built for installation where cabin sides have excessive angles. This port drains while tipped up to 45° degrees and will not collect rain and spray. It also has easy-to-clean open ducts that resist clogging.

From $130.75 // 203-333-1412 // www.beckson.com

BOATCAPSULE BoatCapsule is an inflatable bubble that provides indoor or outdoor storage by sealing and protecting boats from impact damage, dust, dirt, corrosion, mildew, and pests.

A high-pressure fan provides continuous airflow that prevents condensation and maintains inflation of the BoatCapsule. Air inside the bubble is exchanged with filtered outside air 3 to 6 times every hour.

Made from 16 mil PVC for hot and cold weatherability, it also blocks UV rays.

The floor is fabricated from 18 mil PVC that is mildew, abrasion and flame resistant, as well as impervious to oil, gas, and coolants. Available in 16- and 18-ft. lengths, and custom sizes. $699 to $1,299 // 219-945-9493 // www.carcapsule.com

48 GLB | May/June 2015

SKI TOW The flush-mounted 198 Ski Tow from Accon Marine keeps the transom clear of protrusions and provides a secure connection for a water skier’s rope.

Featuring a four-piece patented assembly, the ski tow consists of the main body, sealing cup, backing plate and gasket. Each stainless steel ski tow measures 3.5” L x 3.5” W x 1.25” D. Installation is simple. Owners just need to drill a 2½-inch hole and attach the ski tow with four ¼-inch screws. $45.93 // 727-572-9202 // www.acconmarine.com

VALVE LUBRICATION KIT Forespar’s new MareLube Reach kit injects lubrication directly into the valve where it is needed using an extension tube to get into hard-to-reach valve locations.

MareLube is a lubricant specially formulated for use with all types of marine valves.

One squeeze of the pre-loaded syringe dispenses lubrication throughout the extension tube to the inside of the valve ensuring all moving parts work and seal correctly.

The kit includes a 30cc syringe pre-loaded with MareLube Valve Lubricant, extension tube, applicator brush, and reusable syringe cap. $12.95 // 949-858-8820 // forespar.com

SURFACE-MOUNT PUSH POLE HOLDER The 710 Push Pole Holder only requires three #10 screws for mounting. With no cuts needed, owners can simply install the holder on the deck or other surface.

Constructed from marine-grade 316 stainless steel and UV-resistant glass-filled nylon, this push pole holder is built for years of service. It also folds down flush when not in use to avoid tripping. Three push pole holders are recommended for optimum pole stability. $68.20 // 727-572-9202 // www.acconmarine.com

greatlakesboating.com | 49

EVENTS CALENDAR

May • June • July EVENTS FLORIDA

JUNE 20

JUNE 12-14

International Tug Boat Race

Annual Lighthouse Festival

South Florida Boat Show

Detroit River/Ambassador Bridge Detroit

Multiple Venues Door County

www.tugrace.com

www.dcmm.org

JUNE 26-28

JUNE 20

Antique & Classic Boat Show

SailFest

Algonac Harbour Club Algonac

Breakwater Park Oconto

www.michacbs.com

http://cityofoconto.com/ NewsAndInformation/oconto-sailfest/

MAY 29-31

Miami Beach Convention Center Miami Beach www.southflaboatshow.com

JUNE 12-14

West Palm Summer Boat Show Palm Beach Convention Center West Palm Beach www.southflaboatshow.com

ILLINOIS JUNE 11-14

City of St. Charles RiverFest Multiple Venues St. Charles www.prideofthefox.net

JUNE 27

Cardboard Boat Regatta Lake Ellyn Glen Ellyn 630-858-2462

MICHIGAN MAY 15-17

Great Lakes Boating Festival Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Grosse Pointe Shores www.greatlakesboatingfestival.com

MAY 16-17

Steelheaders Pro-Am Fishing Tournament South Haven Yacht Club South Haven www.southhavensteelheaders.com

MAY 22

Blessing of the Fleet Michigan Maritime Museum South Haven www.southhaven.com

JUNE 19-21

Bay Harbor In-Water Boat Show Bay Harbor Lake Marina Bay Harbor www.bayharbor.com

JUNE 27

Vintage Car and Boat Festival Village at Bay Harbor Bay Harbor www.bayharbor.com

MINNESOTA JUNE 17

Winona Steamboat Days Multiple Venues Winona

CANADA JUNE 25-29

The Great Tugboat Race Roberta Bondar Marina Sault Ste. Marie Ontario

JUNE 19-21

705-759-4800

Wooden Boat Show & Summer Solstice Festival

JULY 4-5

North House Folk School Grand Marais www.northhouse.org

The Quebec Nautical Fest Multiple Venues Quebec www.fetedunautisme.ca

OHIO MAY 16

Ready Set Wear It! Annual Life Jacket Awareness Day Statewide

JUNE 5-7

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

2015 Invitational Mills Trophy Race

MAY 16-22

Toledo Yacht Club Toledo

www.safeboatingcampaign.com

www.mi6657.wix.com

NATIONAL FISHING & BOATING WEEK

WISCONSIN JUNE 6-7

Free Fishing Weekend Statewide www.dnr.wi.gov

Detroit River Days

Wisconsin Carp Championship and Carp Fest

50 GLB | May/June 2015

Main Street Hayward

www.winonasteamboatdays.com

JUNE 6-7

www.detroitriverfront.org

Hayward Musky Festival 715-635-8662

JUNE 19-21 Riverfront Detroit

JUNE 25-28

Shoreline of East and West Twin Rivers Two Rivers 920-794-1351

JUNE 6-14 www.rbff.org

PRODUCTS & SERVICES FREE ADS GOT A BOAT TO SELL? Complimentary 25-word classified boat advertisements and PHOTO in the July/August 2015 issue.

(NO STRINGS ATTACHED!)

Email your text-only advertisement to:

classifieds@greatlakesboating.com Free classified boat advertisement offer limited to one per reader.

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 for the July/August 2015 issue must be received by June 8, 2015.

Advertiser Index Absolute Yachts......................................... 5 Allstate Insurance...................................BC BoatU.S.................................................... 27 Crownline Boats........................................ 3 Eaton Marina Power & Lighting................ 1 GoBoatNY.com......................................... 33 Honda Marine.......................................... 31 Marlow-Mainship...................................... 7 North Point Marina.................................. 10 Oconto, Wisconsin................................... 51

SUBSCRIBE Online!

Port Washington Marina......................... 55 Pro-Line Boats......................................... 21 Progressive Insurance...........................IFC

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)

RBFF......................................................... 54 SkipperBud’s..................................... 37, 56 Spring Brook Marina............................. IBC Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers........................ 33 Waukegan Harbor.................................... 17 Zodiac Marine/Reed Yacht Sales............ 11

VISIT:

GreatLakesBoating.com or CALL: 312.266.8400

52 GLB | May/June 2015

POWERBOATS

VISIT NOW!

1986 Tradewinds 38’ Sundeck Trawler: Single SP135 diesel, bow thruster, generator, Stratoglas enclosure, bimini, cruise ready, pillow top cal-queen, fuel polisher.

Call 330-882-4441. $79,900 OBO. 1948 40’ Chris Craft Challenger: A true classic yacht! Many upgrades that keep her historical charm. Visit www.chriscraft-challenger.simplesite.com or email jmcfarland1@gmail.com.

Only $42,500. (see photo below)

Viking 40 Sportfish with Flybridge: 454 twin Crusaders, generator, teak flooring, surveys 2008 & 2013. Call Larry: 815-715-4820, Milwaukee, WI. $38,000 OBO.

MISCELLANEOUS

GREAT LAKES

BOATING FEDERATION

NEW

IMPROVED MOBILE FRIENDLY! GreatLakesBoatingFederation.com

SELL YOUR BOAT MARINASANDTRANSPORT.COM NEW- and PRE-OWNED MARINA EQUIPMENT Looking to buy or if you have equipment to sell. We also transport boats and offer overseas shipping.

CONTACT: Rob Lee Maritime boattransport@comcast.net 508-758-9409

on our new redesigned Classified Section at www.greatlakesboating.com

greatlakesboating.com | 53

Catch a memory you’ll never release. #FirstCatch First of the day, first of the season or first of a lifetime.

Follow @Take_Me_Fishing and show us your #FirstCatch.

T:10.875”

B:11.125”

S:10.25”

For complete specs & photos of these boats visit: B12935

2007

28’ FOUR WIN

B13383

2009

28’ CHAPARRA 284SUNESTA

288

B13369

2000

29’ SEA RAY

B13547

2000

29’ REGAL

B13386

2000

J0344A B13130

2003

SKIPPERBUDS.COM

$79,995

B13351

36’ CARVER

360SEDAN

$145,000

$68,500

TY0055A 2013

36’ Tiara

36 Coronet

$499,000

290AJ

$29,995

P1343A1 2002

37’ FOURWINN

378VISTA

$105,900

2960COMMODORE

$39,995

B9330

2002

37’ FORMULA

37PC

$179,900

29’ Sea Ray

290DA

$49,900

HF0624A 2006

37’ FORMULA

37 PC

$169,900

2005

29’ FORMULA

292

$54,995

B12161

2001

38’ SEA RAY

380

$139,900

2004

30’ SEA RAY

300DA

$79,900

B13162

2001

38’ SEA RAY

380SUNDANCER

$119,900

B13502

2008

30’ BAYLINER

300SB

$67,500

B12297

2001

38’ SEA RAY

380DA

$139,900

B13444

2000

31’ SEA RAY

310DA

$74,900

B11266

2004

38’ MERIDIAN

381

$169,900

B12947

2000

31’ SILVERTO

310EXPRESS

$59,000

B12233

2004

38’ SEA RAY

380DA

$149,900

B12628

2000

31’ SEA RAY

310DA

$62,995

B12946

2001

39’ SILVERTO

392MY

$119,900

B13329

2001

31’ SEA RAY

310DA

$74,900

B12963

2004

39’ SEA RAY

390SUNDANCER

$182,900

B7505

2001

31’ SEA RAY

310DA

$99,000

B7169

2005

39’ SEA RAY

390MY

$385,000

B13059

2002

31’ TIARA

3100 OPEN

$119,900

B13490

2005

39’ SEA RAY

390MY

$219,900

B13045

2004

31’ TIARA

3100 OPEN

$119,900

B13384

2007

39’ MERIDIAN

391

$249,000

B13480

2006

31’ FOUR WIN

318VISTA

$95,000

B13389

2011

39’ SEA RAY

390DA

$339,000

B12875

2007

31’ FOUR WIN

318 VISTA

$94,900

B11755

2000

40’ SEA RAY

400DA

$169,900

B12822

2009

31’ SEA RAY

310 SUNDANCER

$159,900

B13408

2008

40’ SEA RAY

40 SUNDANCER

$259,000

B12606

2003

32’ SEA RAY

320DA

$79,995

B13153

2002

41’

SEA RAY

410EXPRESS

$149,900

B13457

2003

32’ SEA RAY

320DA

$94,900

B12882

2002

41’

SEA RAY

410SUNDANCER

$169,900

B13252

2005

32’ SEA RAY

320SUNDANCER

$114,900

B5978

2004

41’

MERIDIAN

411SB

$279,900

B13282

2005

32’ SEA RAY

320SUNDANCER

$89,900

B12848

2005

41’

RINKER

410

$139,000

B11798

2007

32’ SEA RAY

320DA

$129,500

B13514

2000

42’ CRUISERS

4270

$159,900

B13152

2008

32’ TIARA

3200OPEN

$214,900

B13095

2002

42’ FOUNTAIN

42LIGHTNING

B12920

2008

32’ BAYLINER

320EXPRESS

$85,000

B10956

2002

42’ AZIMUT

42FLY

$229,900

B13459

2000

33’ Maxum

3300SCR

$48,500

B13247

2003

42’ SEARAY

420 SUNDANCER

$239,900

B12732

2000

33’ LARSON

330CABRIO

$54,995

B12770

2007

42’ CARVER

42SS

$269,000

B13598

2004

33’ CRUISERS

3372

$84,900

B13255

2007

42’ RINKER

420EC

$189,000

B12608

2005

33’ CARVER

33SS

$124,000

B11943

2005

43’ SILVERTO

43

$309,900

B13199

2005

33’ FORMULA

330SS

$94,900

B13411

2005

43’ SILVERTO

43MY

$279,995

B12328

2006

33’ CARVER

33SUPERSPORT

$144,900

B13557

2006

43’ AZIMUT

43S

$374,900

B13325

2006

33’ CARVER

33SS

$134,995

B11899

2007

43’ CRANCHI

43

$385,750

B12599

2008

33’ FOUR WIN

338V

$149,900

TY0063R 2013

43’ TIARA

4300OPEN

$849,900

B13394

2009

33’ SEA RAY

330DA

$174,995

B13217

2014

43’ TIARA

4300OPEN

$969,900

B13304

$99,900

2012

33’ SEA RAY

330DA

$179,900

B13546

2004

44’ CRUISERS

440EC

$239,000

BT0101A 2013

33’ SEA RAY

330DA

$215,995

B13501

2005

44’ CRUISERS

440EC

$265,900

B8629

2000

34’ SEA RAY

340DA

$84,995

B12916

2005

44’ CRUISERS

440EC

$239,900

B12273

2000

34’ Sea Ray

340DA

$79,900

B13604

2007

44’ SEA RAY

44DA

$299,000

B12974

2000

34’ SEA RAY

340DA

$49,900

B12880

2008

44’ SEA RAY

44DA

$439,000

B12390

2000

34’ SEA RAY

340DA

$69,900

B8085

2005

46’ SEA RAY

460DA

$349,000

BT0114B 2001

34’ FORMULA

34PC

$72,995

B13458

2003

50’ SEA RAY

500DA

$399,000

B13322

2003

34’ MERIDIAN

341SB

$94,900

B13570

2003

50’ VIKING

50SCFLYBRIDGE

$389,000

B13440

2003

34’ CRUISERS

3470

$98,900

B13021

2007

50’ SILVERTO

50C

$549,995

B7884

2005

34’ SEA RAY

340SDA

$179,995

B13381

2012

50’ MARQUIS

500SPORTBRIDE

$899,000

B12673

2005

34’ FOUR WIN

348V

$139,900

B13350

2008

52’ SEA RAY

52DA

$549,000

B13235

2001

35’ Silverto

351 Convertible

$89,000

B12070

2003

54’ CRUISERS

5470

$359,000

B13366

2004

35’ SILVERTO

35MY

$119,500

B11893

2002

55’ SEA RAY

550DA

$379,900

B12883

2006

35’ REGAL

3560

$129,900

B10470

2008

55’ SEA RAY

55SUNDANCER

$995,000

B11335

2007

35’ RINKER

350FV

$165,000

B13404

2004

56’ CARVER

56VOYAGER

B10545

2007

35’ LARSON

350CABRIO

$119,900

B13277

2011

58’ SEA RAY

580DA

$1,089,900

B12945

2010

35’ SEA RAY

350SUNDANCER

$219,900

B13172

2006

82’ Sunseeker

Predator

$1,595,000

B11837

2003

36’ SEA RAY

360DA

$145,000

$519,000

famiLy owned and Serving the BoaterS of the great LakeS for over 50 yearS

Spring Brook Marina

Lower Lake michigan crUiSerS yachtS and crUiSerS SPort SerieS deaLer

2014 Cruisers Sport 208 Bow Rider

Special Spring Pricing & Ready to Go

2015 Cruisers Yachts 45 Cantius

Call For Special In Stock Pricing

We g resu et l list yo ts! boat w ur us tod ith ay!

2015 Cruisers Sport 328 Bow Rider

Special Spring Pricing & Ready to Go

excLUSive PreStige / JeanneaU PowerBoat deaLer for the great LakeS

2015 Prestige 420S Express On Order Trades Welcome

2015 Prestige 450 Fly Bridge Call For Special Pricing

2015 Prestige 500S Express On Order, Trades Welcome

2015 Prestige 550 Fly Bridge Call for Special Pricing

Large SeLection of new, USed & Brokerage BoatS | PartS & Service | dockage | Storage

2000 Fountain 47 Lightning Trailer 500hp $89,900

2003 Tiara 4400 Sovran Trades Welcome $359,000

2011 Cruisers 420 Sport Coupe Trades Welcome $379,900

2007 Carver 52 Voyager Well Maintained $449,000

2013 Cruisers 350 Express Axius Joystick $259,000

2013 Cruisers Sport 278 Like News $64,000

2008 Regal 4060 Commodore Volvo IPS $239,900

2011 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius Trades Welcome $649,900

three great lakes locations to serve You seneca, illinois 623 W. River Road 866-418-6696

traverse city, Michigan 12935 West Bayshore Dr. Suite 105 866-418-6696

eastlake, ohio 200 Forest Drive 866-418-6696

www.springbrookmarina.com | sales@springbrookmarina.com