Great Lakes Boating May/June 2009

June 2009

For all who cruise freshwater seas & inland waterways Great Lakes Boating Study?

PORTRAIT OF PETOSKEY MIGHTY MERIDIAN

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Display until July 15, 2009

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PUBLISHERS NOTE

closer and stronger. We’re reminding you that enjoying life is important. And we’re saying boating is the best cure for your anything-bad blues.

I have always believed that the perfect

Publisher & Editor in Chief F. Ned Dikmen Managing Editor Karen Malonis

boat blends cruisability and livability.

We are taking a look at three sedans

Assistant Editor Ted McDermott

from Meridian Yachts that provide cruising comfort and amenities Come all to the new boating season,

while addressing the need for solid

where you’ll find wonderful weather

performance, smooth handling and

for the next six months. That is just

functional design. One of those

enough time to enjoy all the boating

distinctly American sedans featured

you can handle. The winter around the

in this issue may prompt you to get

Great Lakes has been reflective of the

out and join others on a cruise to a

economy. According to the Old Farmer’s

neighboring port or beyond.

Contributing William D. Anderson Writers Joseph S. Gulotti Jennifer McKay

Graphic Design Justin Hoffman Mila Ryk

Almanac 2009, we’re in for a beautiful summer. So can the economy keep

This issue also includes a personal

pace with the weather?

account of a letter in a bottle. Renew your hope in the future with this

Everyone knows there has been a blip in

wonderful tale of a bottle tossed

the boating world: fewer visitors to boat

overboard, which was found several

shows and fewer boats in the marinas.

years later.

That should turn around. Gas prices are way down this year, almost half of what

Also in this issue we’ll take you to

they were last year. No one will have

see the best of Petoskey, Michigan.

to sit in the marina and pretend they’re

It’s a wonderful place to visit and get

enjoying their permanently moored

Petoskey stones, which are fossilized

boat. They can take it out on the water

coral stones found in the bay. Our

to the places they’ve been dreaming of.

fishing feature on plastic worms, tube baits and rigging styles urges anglers

What is needed this summer to help

to experiment with these lures. We

revive the economy is boaters on boats.

also did what you could not: asked the

You will be hard-pressed to find a more

tough questions about the “Great Lakes

economical way to experience boating.

Boating Study.” You’ll be surprised by

In Chicago, a slip can be rented for

the answers we got.

$300 to $500 per month for a 30- to 35foot boat. Compare that to the million

It’s been several months since you’ve

dollar condos listed by realtors.

been able to relax on the water with our magazine. We hope you’re doing just

Is there a cheaper way to bond with

that right now. If not, take your boat out

your children? Can you find an easier

this weekend.

way to make weekend getaways to faraway destinations? Boating provides you with the ability to make your family

READERS! GREAT LAKES BOATING MAGAZINE WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE

ONLINE SIGN UP NOW AT GREATLAKESBOATING.COM/REGISTER Why wait to pick up the magazine when you could read it sooner on your computer for FREE

04 GLB | May/June 09

Web Design Justin Hoffman Advertising | Sales Inquiries p 312.266.8400 • f 312.266.8470 e info@greatlakesboating.com Michigan | Ohio M2Media Company Mark Moyer • p 248.840.0749 e m2mediaco@sbcglobal.net

GREAT LAKES BOATING® Magazine (ISSN 1937-7274) © 2009 is a registered trademark (73519-331) of Chicago Boating Publications, Inc., its publisher 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

For editorial inquiries, contact Great Lakes Boating Magazine at 1032 N. LaSalle, Chicago, IL 60610. p 312.266.8400 or e kmalonis@greatlakesboating.com Online subscription rates are $18/year, $30/two years or $36/three years and are available at greatlakesboating. com. Great Lakes Boating Magazine is available at any of the distribution centers and newsstands in areas surrounding the Great Lakes. Postmaster should forward all undelivered issues to Great Lakes Boating Magazine, 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

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

Great Lakes Boating Magazine does not assume liability or ensure accuracy of the content contained in its articles, editorials, new product releases and advertising. Inquiries may be directed to the authors through the editorial office. Products, services and advertisements appearing in Great Lakes Boating Magazine do not constitute an endorsement or guarantee of their safety by Great Lakes Boating Magazine. Material in the publication may not be reproduced in any form without written consent of the Great Lakes Boating Magazine editorial and executive staff. Past copies may be purchased by sending a written request to the offices of Great Lakes Boating Magazine. For reprints contact: FosteReprints, p 800.382.0808 or f 219.879.8366.

Honda Reliability.

DEMANDIT.

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Power that’s responsive to the throttle. Reduced fuel consumption. Historically lower maintenance. You’ll find all this and more in any Honda four-stroke. Engines so good they’re backed by the best standard warranty in the business. You owe it to yourself to check out hondamarine.com or call 800.426.7701 for a free brochure. See your Honda Marine Dealer for attractive financing available through American Honda Finance Corporation. © 2008 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner’s manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA and CARB emission levels.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

14

OTC 35’10” 12’6” DRAFT: 3’4” FUEL CAPACITY: 250 gals LOA:

FEATURES FEATURES • MERIDIAN YACHTS • Port of Call: PETOSKEY • BOATING STUDY? • PLASTIC LURES

BEAM:

10 14 18 26

Meridian 341 Sedan

SPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHTS • LETTER IN A BOTTLE

22

18 26

22

Meridian’s commitment to the concepts of cruisability, livability and functionality are evident in the 341 Sedan. The salon offers living-room-style seating that provides a home-like environment. Its two-tier integrated window system bathe the yacht’s interior with natural light, from salon and galley to staterooms and heads.

The galley is the heart of the yacht, just as the kitchen is to a home, so Meridian has integrated the galley into the salon while maintaining its distinct functional space with state-of-the-art appliances, generous storage and plenty of countertop space.

Other cruiser-friendly amenities include fully equipped entertainment centers with LCD televisions, CD/DVD players and stereo systems, with Sirius® and KVH TracVision satellite systems available.

The two staterooms allow families and couples to cruise together while enjoying privacy, comfort and convenience. Thre’s plenty of room so that all aboard may enjoy time together and apart.

DEPARTMENTS

Its exclusive Total Command ® system integrates bow- and stern-thruster operation and throttle control in a single, user-friendly joystick.

DEPARTMENTS IN THE NEWS

IN THE NEWS • GREAT LAKES • FISHING • YACHT CLUBS • MARINAS • CRUISING • NATIONAL • SAILING

30 32 34 36 38 40 42

• PUBLISHER’S NOTE • LETTERS TO THE EDITOR • EDITORIALS • NEW BOATS • NEW PRODUCTS • BOAT CARE AND FEEDING • BOATKEEPER • MARINE MART • EVENTS CALENDAR • ADVERTISERS INDEX

04 07 08 44 46 48 50 54 55 56

The 341 offers underwater exhaust; the most reliable, best-performing power systems available; and sophisticated fabrics packages that enhance the yacht’s inviting atmosphere.

Experience for yourself why Meridian Yachts is the best-selling brand of bridge boats in America.*

Meridian Boats 1st Tennessee Plaza 800 Gay Street Suite 1300 Knoxville, TN 37929 (865) 971-6313 meridian-yachts.com

06 GLB | May/June 09

* According to Statistical Surveys Incorporated

sailing program through earned

Fight Against Increased Ethanol

On behalf of the Alliance for the

income alone. This drive for support

On March 6, 2009, a new

Great Lakes, I would like to thank

will ensure that the earned income is

pro-ethanol lobbying organization

you for your advertising contribution

supported by local contributions that

called Growth Energy and 54 ethanol

in support of the 2009 Taste of the

will guarantee the survival of the ship.

manufacturers formally requested that

Great Lakes benefit that will be held on June 11.

The funds raised from this event will support the critical work of the Alliance, which works to ensure a healthy Great Lakes for all generations by educating citizens of all ages about lake issues, restoring fish and wildlife habitats, preserving water quality and keeping the beaches clean.

Cameron Davis President Alliance for the Great Lakes Chicago, Illinois

SOS from U.S. Brig Niagara The Flagship Niagara's sailing program is in danger of being shut down. The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) is considering cutting funding for the ship's sailing program, which is guaranteed to diminish the

ship, the Flagship Niagara League (FNL), which is the 501 c3 non-profi t organization that is chartered to support the ship, can maintain the

the Environmental Protection Agency The goal is to raise $200,000 by September 14 of 2009.

is required by law, EPA on April 21

Flagship Niagara League is only

published a Notice for Comment in the

$25. Visit brigniagara.org to join and

Federal Register, beginning a 30-day

petitiononline.com/10Sep13/petition.

public comment period.

html to sign a petition that will be sent to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

above E10, the current maximum

generate more support for the ship

legal blend level.

and the ship’s sailing program.

Association has set up a website

for updates.

(capwiz.com/nmma/issues/alert/?ale rtid=13199386&PROCESS=Take+A

Claudia Bankert Chagrin Fall, Ohio

From the Finger Lakes The purpose of this note is to compliment you on your fine publication.

services to the ship each year.

products and the industry. We also have some local boatbuilding history with the old Penn Yan boatbuilding facility literally in our backyard.

and Erie and retold its famous history

My staff and I are very excited to have

to more than 650,000 people since

exposure to the well-researched,

1992. Her sailing program has grown

thorough and detailed information in

at a rate of 25 percent per year since

your magazine.

the PHMC will agree to maintain the

ction) where you can easily send an email to the EPA and request it deny the increase.

in continually being updated on new

almost completely self-sufficient. If

The National Marine Manufacturers

Visit causes.com/FlagshipNiagara

worth of volunteer maintenance

Vessel in 2005. The program is now

them has been designed, certified or warrantied to run on anything

boat dealership with a keen interest

the ship became a Sailing School

in operation in the U.S., and none of

the ship to keep sailing if the FNL can

volunteers donate more than $100,000

ship has represented Pennsylvania

There are 18 million boats currently

The Commission has agreed to allow

We are a small on-the-water marina/

volunteers will stop volunteering. The

in gasoline up to 15 percent (E15). As

An individual membership for the

ship’s volunteer program. Niagara

If the ship stops sailing, the

(EPA) increase ethanol blend levels

LET TERS TO THE EDITOR

Taste of the Great Lakes Benefit

John Flick Morgan Marine Penn Yan, New York

Ethanol advocates are mobilizing their forces to submit 20,000 favorable comments about E15, so log on to capwiz.com/nmma/issues/alert/?aler tid=13199386&PROCESS=Take+Act ion, scroll down the page and submit your thoughts BEFORE MAY 21!

Boaters know very well that increased ethanol blends will cause performance problems with their boats and engines, increase maintenance costs, potentially pose safety risks and increase air pollution. E15 will also void manufacturer warranties.

Lake Erie Marine Trades Association Westlake, Ohio

Send a letter to the editor, and tell us what you think. info@greatlakesboating.com

greatlakesboating.com | 07

EDITORIALS

BOATING STIMULATED Great Lakes Boating Federation hails the grants recently awarded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) program. Th is is a small step in the right direction, but there is a lot to be done.

More than $12.5 million has been granted to 11 states for 14 boating infrastructure projects. An additional $3 million will be released at a later date to 40 states willing to match smaller, non-competitive grants.

Not only is it about time the region receives funding to improve the boating infrastructure, but it makes sense since funding for the BIG program comes from boaters themselves, who support it through excise taxes on certain equipment and boating fuels.

The grants prove the government believes in the benefits of boating, but more needs to be done. There are harbors to be dredged and a new study needs to be completed to show the real strength of boating.

Recreational boating suffers from many years of neglect. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) refuses to dredge recreational harbors while endlessly dredging commercial harbors, despite the fact that recreational boaters generate four times as much regional economic impact.

Consider the USACE spent approximately $34.5 million last year to dredge harbors in the Buffalo, Chicago and Detroit

districts combined. Commercial shipping is drying out but the dredging continues, while recreational boat harbors suffer. One report suggests that Great Lakes recreational harbors could be dredged for a mere $5 million per year. Let’s do the math: $34.5 million to produce $4 billion in commercial economic impact, or $5 million to produce $16 billion in recreational impact. The numbers speak for themselves.

Because boating is one of our country’s favorite pastimes, the Great Lakes Boating Federation believes the government should also reconsider their dredging policies. Recreational boating has been making millions of people happier, improving local economies and creating stronger families for decades while the USACE has been spending its time and money on big business. It is time to change.

Recreational boating needs a study to provide accurate numbers on today’s economic impact. It seems litt le to ask Congress to spend $0.5 million to $1 million to conduct a proper study of the recreational boating economic impact on the Great Lakes. The recently released study was supported by data more than five years old (some of which was changed between draft s) and used only one-tenth of the funding it was allocated. It is likely the fi ndings will prove recreational boaters have an even larger impact than we believe today.

It’s time; we deserve our day in the sun.

HELP GREAT LAKES BOATING BETTER SERVE YOU Great Lakes Boating is working to keep the magazine available with strong content while attempting to stay healthy. You can help us through our time of adaptation.

searchability and instantaneous availability. Also, the digital format will allow us to bring you more photographs and more of the stories you like best.

Rather than only fi nding us in print, you can also fi nd us online. Perhaps you get your copy at a local marina or yacht club. But why wait for the issue to be printed and delivered?

You can go to our website and read a virtual version of our print magazine. You can also read updated stories each week as we release the stories in a traditional web format, sometimes including extra features with the story.

In adapting with us, you’ll prove how strong Great Lakes boaters’ environmental stewardship is. We’ll be using fewer trees by not printing the magazine, and we’ll be saving other natural resources that would be used in the production and shipping of our magazine. All this at no cost to you.

The transition from print to web can be daunting. It is certainly a challenge for us at the magazine. We are continually thinking of ways we can give you more in this new format. Our aim is to provide you instantly with an even more interactive and even more useful experience with our magazine. We want to make sure you continue to get what you’ve come to love: the writing style and subject matter. We do want to enrich your experience in ways the print cannot: links between related stories,

08 GLB | May/June 09

What we’re asking for right now, is for you to register with your email to gain access to the virtual magazine. You’ll fi nd it is just as wonderful. And we promise you more changes to improve your Great Lakes Boating experience. greatlakesboating.com/register

Agree? Disagree? Want to Comment?

Share your thoughts on the redesigned greatlakesboating.com

BOAT SHOWS GOING VIRTUAL The future of the real boat shows we have come to know for decades is about to change and transform into the virtual: the Online Virtual Boat Show. Why wait for a boat show to come to your area that will cost you money to attend and only showcase a few boat lines. Instead you could visit our own show on your computer at any time that’s convenient for you.

In the next few weeks you will have access to view our Virtual Boat Show, presented by the Great Lakes Boating Federation. The virtual showcase is where visitors can learn about new vessels from more than 100 manufacturers. On this community web site you can also learn how to att ain premium boating accessories and services at reduced rates.

You can search or browse. You can also learn about other topics related to owning a boat, such as insurance and lending. When you fi nd your new boat, the site will help you fi nd a nearby dealer. greatlakesboatingfederation.com/abs

A ROAD FLOTILLA – TRY IT!

Guest editorial by Van W. Snider, Jr., CAE President, Michigan Boating Industries Association

In my previous position I managed the Marine Industries Association of South Florida in Fort Lauderdale. I had the opportunity to work with the Bahamas Tourism Office on what was called “Bahamas Boating Flings.”

Boating Flings are the Bahamian equivalent of a road trip, but instead of cars, folks use boats. A lead boat and captain leads the way for a flotilla of pleasure craft on a journey from Florida across the Gulf Stream to beautiful Bahamian islands. After the simple crossing, everyone can relax on white powder beaches or enjoy an itinerary fi lled with exciting activities and still have enough time to snorkel, scuba dive and fish. Flings start on Wednesday and end on Sunday during the summer from June through August.

The Association provided the lead boat with captain and also coordinated the voyage across the Gulf Stream, while the Bahamas Tourism Office coordinated activities in port and on the island. Someone, of course, had to make the trip representing the Association so, only out of the goodness of my heart, I volunteered and sacrificed the time. And yes, I tried not to miss one.

Let me be candid. The Association got involved because we knew many boaters had no experience cruising to the Bahamas and by gett ing them to experience a boating fl ing, they would want to do it again. Hopefully, this would convince them to purchase a larger boat to take advantage of the cruising opportunities available in the region.

So why do I want to tell the Bahamas Boating Fling story? I am convinced a large number of boaters are not experiencing the variety of boating opportunities available to them.

With the start of the boating season, I suggest boaters plan their boating season with the intent of experiencing other boating destinations and experiences. Marinas, boat dealers,

boat manufacturers, boat clubs and yacht clubs often schedule rendezvous to difference marinas or ports of call. Many manufacturers work together with their dealer representatives and plan wonderful cruises to fun destinations. Make a few calls or check out the web for potential boat trips to take advantage of these opportunities.

I have always wondered why rendezvous are directed to only larger boats that have accommodations for living aboard.

Why don’t dealers, who represent trailerable boat lines, also offer destination trips for a group of trailerable boat owners (their customers) and do a road flotilla to a far away and new boating destination?

Another option is to get eight or 10 boat owners together, plan a road trip trailering their boats to a specific location for a two- or three-day boat outing, and meet at one central location to start the trip together on the highway. Coordinate motel or hotel reservations at your destination and parking for boats with boat trailers. Each day everyone launches for a full day of boating activities in that location, experiencing a new location and fun things to do. It may be possible to arrange for dockage at a harbor or commercial marina in the area so each of you don’t have to launch and retrieve every day. Your road flotilla might consist of personal watercraft and jet boat owners, ski boat owners, fi shermen and women, day-sailors, run-abouts, or a mix. In Michigan you’ll have a hard time deciding on a destination because Michigan has so many to choose from.

When you hear rendezvous or flotilla cruise, you’re not excluded just because you don’t have a 42-footer. Pick your boating destination and coordinate with friends for a road flotilla to a new boating experience.

Try it; I think you’ll enjoy visiting other fresh-water Michigan boating opportunities and creating fond memories.

greatlakesboating.com | 09

Overall Length Beam Draft Fuel Capacity Water Capacity

35’10” 12’6” 3’4” 250 gals.

341

Sedan

90 gals.

This big cruising yacht in an efficient midsize package boasts

The guest stateroom features cherry wood with gloss finish,

a sleek profile and nimble performance.

a double berth with pillowtop mattress, hanging locker and

The salon offers living-room-style seating with an L-shaped

access to additional below-deck storage.

lounge with double incliners, and its two-tier integrated

The head features a cherry-wood vanity cabinet, separate stall

window system provides unbroken views of the horizon. The

shower and full-standing headroom.

salon space includes a bottle-storage cabinet, an adjustableheight dining table and an entertainment center with 20-inch LCD TV, AM/FM radio, CD/DVD player, Sirius® satellite radio, four speakers and salon and bridge remote control.

The flybridge and bridge helm station incorporate an adjustable captain’s chair, L-shaped lounge seating, Bimini top, tilt steering, flush-mounted compass, VHF and depth sounder. Instrumentation also includes Meridian’s D.O.C.®

The galley has been designed to be part of the salon living

(Docking On Command®) system, which integrates bow- and

space and features solid cherry-wood cabinetry, an AC/DC

stern-thruster operation from a single, user-friendly control.

refrigerator/freezer, a recessed electric glass cooktop with two burners and cover, a microwave, custom countertops and mahogany flooring.

The two-stateroom floor plan easily accommodates families or a second cruising couple. The forward master accommodations feature cherry wood, a large double berth with pillowtop mattress, two illuminated hanging lockers, reading lights and ample storage.

For additional cruising safety and convenience, the fl ybridge has a companionway hatch and wide molded-in stairs to the cockpit.

A two-year manufacturer’s Express Limited Warranty on all systems and components not covered by other warranties is offered on all Meridians. Meridian also offers five years of blister protection and 10 years of hull and deck protection on all its models. meridian-yachts.com

391

Sedan

Overall Length Beam Draft Fuel Capacity Water Capacity

40’11” 13’11” 2’9” 350 gals.

125 gals.

The 391 Sedan seamlessly blends performance and styling

To port is a head and a separate shower compartment across

with cruisability.

the companionway to starboard. The head has a mirrored

The cherry-wood salon, with its 360-degree views, incorporates a leather double incliner, adjustable telescoping solid-cherry

medicine cabinet and a cherry vanity cabinet with molded sink and storage underneath.

table, raised dining area and an entertainment center with 20-

On the flybridge deck, there’s an adjustable captain’s chair

inch LCD TV, AM/FM radio, CD/DVD player, Sirius® satellite

with flip-up bolster, L-shaped lounge seating, Bimini top,

radio, four speakers and salon and bridge remote.

wood-grain dash panel, flush-mounted compass, VHF and

Integrated into this living space is a galley, which features solid-cherry construction, mahogany flooring, double sink, AC/DC refrigerator/freezer, two-burner electric glass cooktop,

depth sounder, and Meridian’s Total Command® system, which integrates bow- and stern-thruster operation and throttle control in a single joystick.

convection oven/microwave, custom countertops and a

Other touches include the flybridge overhang, which ensures

lighted corner cabinet with carousel. A full lower helm station

additional topside room; a stairway hatch in the cockpit

is also available.

and hinged, molded-in steps that provide stand-up access

There are two large staterooms and separate shower and head compartments. Located forward, the master accommodations

to the engine room; and generator access hatches that accommodate routine service.

provide an island double berth with pillowtop mattress, custom

The flybridge has a companionway hatch and wide molded-

countertops, two hanging lockers and reading lights. The guest

in stairs to the cockpit. Like the rest of the 2009 Meridian

accommodations, located amidships, feature an island double

fleet, the 391 offers standard underwater exhaust; the best-

berth with pillowtop mattress, hanging locker with light, courtesy

performing power systems available; and sophisticated

reading lights, stand-up dressing area and plenty of storage.

fabrics packages.

Overall Length Beam Draft Fuel Capacity Water Capacity

47’2” 14’3” 3’1” 432 gals.

441

Sedan Bridge

150 gals.

The 441 Sedan Bridge is a natural evolution of Meridian’s

double berth, full-size hanging locker, vanity and settee, TV/

popular 411 Sedan.

DVD and plenty of storage.

Sporting a new hull, deck, bridge and shearline, the 441 has

On the bridge deck is a standard wet bar, a multiple-use

more aggressive profile lines than its predecessor.

table and a sun lounge that can be easily stowed beneath the

The full-beam salon incorporates opposing seating, creating

bridge deck’s L-shaped seating.

a living-room-style environment for entertaining or relaxing.

The ergonomically designed helm accommodates two 12-inch

It also boasts a dry bar, new ceiling detail with Ultra-Flow

monitors, two 4-in-1 gauges and two 5-inch tachometers. It

comfort air system and a deluxe home theater system.

also provides convenient hinged access for servicing. Other

The wide-open floor plan creates unbroken lines of sight between the salon, the yacht’s dedicated dinette and the full-service galley, which includes a full-size, dual-voltage refrigerator/freezer, three-burner cooktop and built-in

touches include a bridge-to-cockpit companionway hatch, wide molded-in steps to the cockpit, stand-up access to the engine room from the cockpit, electrical panels located at eye level and standard underwater exhaust.

convection microwave. The integrated two-tier window system

The 441 offers standard 5.91 380-horsepower Cummins QSB

ensures improved visibility from all these interior areas.

V-Drives, while T 425-horsepower and T 480-horsepower

Its two-stateroom, two-head layout provides a gracious

Cummins QSB V-Drives are available.

master suite, located forward, with a queen-size island berth,

The Total Command™ Integrated Vessel Control System

innerspring pillowtop mattress, two cedar-lined hanging

is a low-speed, close-quarters operation system that fully

lockers, reading lights, TV/DVD entertainment system and

integrates control of the yacht’s thrusters, transmissions and

private en-suite head facilities. The amidship guest stateroom,

engines with a single joystick. It also provides for independent

which spans the yacht’s 14-foot, 2-inch beam, features a

actuation of bow and stern thrusters via a switch pad.

Bo a te l S to r a ge S yste m by:

Golden Giant, Inc. www.goldengiantmarina.com

1.800.828.1209

Quaint

By Jennifer McKay

Overlooking the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay on the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, you’ll find Petoskey, a quaint resort community with unmatched beauty and charm.

This Great Lakes playground is a four-season destination, luring thousands of visitors to Little Traverse Bay every year.

14 GLB | May/June 09

Petoskey I

t i s where “light

At the heart of Bayfront Park is the City’s 100 -slip

shines through

marina offering all the amenities a boater could

the clouds” in the

want. Other marinas found along Little Traverse

language of its original

Bay include Bay Harbor Lake Marina at Bay

inhabitants, the Odawa.

Harbor; Walstrom Marine, Irish Boat Shop and

Living between Harbor

the Harbor Springs Municipal Marina in Harbor

Springs and Cross Village,

Springs. Of special note, all of these marinas

they once represented the largest concentration of

in Little Traverse Bay are designated as Clean

natives in Michigan. The region’s splendor attracted

Marinas. Having all of the marinas on the Bay

settlers and resorters, including the United

receive the designation shows that these marinas

Methodist Church, who in 1875 founded Bay View.

understand that good stewardship of our water

As many as seven generations of original members

resources directly impacts not only the economic

maintain these Victorian-era cottages at the

vitality of these Northern Michigan communities,

colony, and the Bay View Association has earned a

but the future of recreational boating as well.

designation as a National Historic Landmark. The family of American literary icon Ernest Hemingway was also among early vacationers. Hemingway spent his youthful summers exploring woods and waters and later used those experiences in his Nick Adams stories.

There are also plenty of marinas on the numerous inland lakes in Northern Michigan. On special interest is the Inland Waterway. The 38-mile waterway has been called “one of the most beautiful small boat trips in the country.” It begins in Crooked Lake, connects via Crooked River with

Among the attractions are the historic Gaslight

Burt Lake to Indian River, then to Mullet Lake.

District in downtown Petoskey, home to art

Finally, it connects to the Cheboygan River out to

galleries, restaurants, cafes, taverns and shops.

Lake Huron. Whether you prefer the serene inland

Petoskey offers one-of-a-kind shops with

waters, the sparkling bay or the open waters of the

handmade jewelry, natural foods, rustic furnishings,

Great Lakes, the Petoskey area offers boating at

a wide array of apparel, antiques, locally-produced

its best. And for those who can’t bring their own

art, literature, some of the finest confections and

boat, rental options are always available.

jams, restaurants and coffee shops.

Recreation and natural resources go hand-in-

A short walk away is Bayfront Park, where a historic

hand in the Little Traverse Bay area. The “Up

train station has been converted into the Little

North” outdoors provides some of the finest

Traverse Historical Society Museum. Bayfront

recreational opportunities known. In addition to

Park is also the setting for the Festival on the Bay,

boating, summers are full of golfing, picnicking,

the biggest event of the year, held every August.

Frisbee golf, waterskiing, camping, fishing and

Among the multitude of activities, music lovers

more. The Little Traverse Wheelway, a 26 -mile

can enjoy an extensive slate of live performances,

paved multi-purpose trail, provides a scenic and

children can play at the Children’s Area, and

safe route for walking, inline skating and biking.

everyone can watch the street performances during

From the northern expanse of Wilderness State

the Sunset on the Bay.

Park and Petoskey State Park to smaller gathering

greatlakesboating.com | 15

places such as Magnus Park and Bear River Park,

Directly across the bay from Petoskey lies another

wide open beaches and fishing spots are easy to find

distinct and picturesque community, Harbor Springs.

and enjoy. Or you could just spend time at the shore

Harbor Springs was founded about a century ago with

and enjoy the summer breezes that skim across the

clear water and a harbor for boating fun; the same

bay. You may come across a Petoskey stone; this

still holds true today. The natural harbor of Harbor

unique, 350 -million-year-old fossilized coral and the

Springs and the fantastic waters of Little Traverse Bay

state stone of Michigan can be found scattered along

and Lake Michigan combine for spectacular sailing.

beaches throughout the area. Whenever you visit,

On the waterfront of Harbor Springs is the Little

don’t miss the Petoskey sunset. Coined the “million

Traverse Yacht Club that hosts its annual regatta

dollar sunset,” it is guaranteed to be one of the most

each July, affectionately known as Ugotta Regatta,

breathtaking, magnificent sunsets on earth.

which also included in the Rolex U.S. IRC National

After a day of fun on the water, there is still plenty of

Championships in 2008.

entertainment when the sun goes down. Whether you

Just west of Petoskey is Bay Harbor. Situated on

are looking for an old-fashioned pub atmosphere,

five miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, Bay Harbor

lacing up your dancing shoes to local bands, a casual

encompasses a world-class hotel, conference center,

night out with great fare or gaming at a world class

equestrian facility, golf course and marina. The

casino with nearly 1,500 slots, dozens of table games

deep water harbor accommodates yachts from small

and a poker room—from trendy to traditional, the

runabouts to vessels up to 200 feet in length with

entertainment options are endless.

luxurious amenities and a private yacht club. Bay

16 GLB | May/June 09

Marinas in Little Traverse Bay, Michigan: City of Petoskey Marina Bayfront Drive, Petoskey, MI 49770 (231) 347-6691 ci.petoskey.mi.us Reservations: (800) 447-2757 midnrreservations.com

Harbor offers a nautical lifestyle with a variety of annual events including an In-Water Boat Show and Vintage Car and Boat Festival.

A little farther south is Charlevoix. Its setting in the midst of Lake Michigan, Lake Charlevoix and

Bay Harbor Lake Marina Front Street, Bay Harbor, MI (231) 439-2544 bayharbor.com/lakemarina Harbor Springs Municipal Marina 250 East Bay Street Harbor Springs, MI 49740 (231) 526-5355

Round Lake provides a magical appeal that has attracted guests for more than 100 years. A working drawbridge raises and lowers to let the boats through to a great harbor and a lot of yachts make use of it. Charlevoix is also the departure point for the ferry that runs to Beaver Island, 35 miles northwest in Lake Michigan.

Approximately 60 miles from Petoskey is the famous Mackinac Island. Limited to transportation of horse and buggy, bicycle or foot, it has escaped the vast changes of time. Whether you make a day trip or dock for a few nights, you can step back in time and explore the historic Fort Mackinac, enjoy the hustle and bustle of the downtown, try the different varieties

Walstrom Marine Harbor Springs 105 W. Bay Street Harbor Springs, MI 49740 (231) 526-2141 walstrom.com Irish Boat Shop, Harbor Springs 400 E. Bay Street P O Box 259 Harbor Springs, MI 49740 (231) 526-6225 Toll Free (888) 578-2628 (BOAT) irishboatshop.com

of homemade fudge or relax at the Grand Hotel, famous for the movie “Somewhere in Time.”

Just as each snowflake is unique in design, the character of Little Traverse Bay in Northern Michigan is unparalleled. People come to the area to soak in the rich views, breathe the clean air, eat at worldclass restaurants and shop in the specialty shops and boutiques of the historic downtowns. Each hometown features the gorgeous beaches, the many warm-weather festivals, the fine food and local wine, the spectacular golf courses and, best of all, the unsurpassed freshwater boating and fishing. It

For a full list of marinas and harbors, including information on boat rental options, contact the Petoskey Area Visitor’s Bureau.

The Visitors Bureau will also be able to provide you with complete information on things to do and places to stay.

Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau 401 East Mitchell Street Petoskey, MI 49770 (231) 348-2755 or (800) 845-2828 petoskeyarea.com

is definitely worth it to make the trip “Up North.” It is so special, Ernest Hemingway referred to it as a

All photos courtesy of

“priceless place.”

Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau

greatlakesboating.com | 17

Great

BOATING

By Ted McDermott

It may seem irrelevant to you, a matter better left to policy makers and activists, but a recently released study of recreational boating on the Great Lakes could have a large and direct impact on the basic, everyday way that you boat. ŠHarris Shiffman/123RF

18 GLB | May/June 09

t Lakes

G STUDY? D

oes your home harbor need dredging? Are

The summary report found that “the 4.3 million

your cruising grounds polluted? Are local fish

recreational boaters registered in the eight

populations declining? Is the price of a new

Great Lakes states generate nearly $16 billion in

vessel out of reach due to taxes?

spending on boats and boating activities

Are the docks at your local marina deteriorating?

in a single year” and that this “spending

If your answer to any of these questions is “yes,”

directly supports 107,000 jobs.”

or if you feel in general that your interests as a boater are being ignored in favor of those of commercial shipping and environmentalists, then the “Great Lakes Recreational Boating Main Report,” as it is officially called, is of grave importance. Its findings could decide the fate of our pastime.

So what did the report, which was released at the end of last year, find? In short, it concluded that an “average of 911,000 boaters visit the Great Lakes annually” and that they support 60,000 jobs and have an estimated annual economic impact of $9.4 billion. Upon first glance, that seems like a lot. But

So, what accounts for the huge discrepancy? What changed so significantly and quickly to account for a loss of approximately 3.4 million boaters, 47,000 jobs and more than $6 billion?

According to Terry Long of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACE), “As the project goes through different levels of review, we had comments that came out of that review and so we made adjustments based on those comments and that differed obviously from what the GLC had.”

when one compares these figures to those released on July

The changes, says Long, resulted not from new data but

11, 2007 by the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as part of

from how the region was defined.

a “summary report,” the official data makes boating look relatively minor.

“Are you looking at the entire state border to border, or are you looking at the region along the lake? That’s where

greatlakesboating.com | 19

the discrepancy came. We said, ‘The guy on the west side

Even with the delayed funding and bureaucratic hurdles,

of [Wisconsin] isn’t going to drive across the state to put his

some are asking why it took six years from the initial

boat in on Lake Michigan.’ It became a question of how the

allocation of funds to submit a finished report and why

basin or the state was defined. . . . Rather than account for

it was so costly. In a press conference on July 11, 2007,

the entire state, only the watershed area would count.”

Dave Knight of the GLC stated that the actual cost of the

So whereas the GLC draft report used data sets that included the Mississippi River, Long Island Sound, interior lakes and other bodies of water beyond the Great Lakes, the ACE counted only the use of Great Lakes shallow draft harbors.

Despite this explanation, some are questioning the validity of the study, which has traveled a long and rocky road on its way to final completion. It was commissioned 10 years ago, as part of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 1999, which authorized the “Great Lakes Boating Study” and mandated that it be completed “no later than 18 months after August 17, 1999.” The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, through its Detroit District, was charged with allocating the funds to conduct the study. ACE, in turn, contracted with the Great Lakes Commission to produce it. Why? “At the time, back in 1999,” said Long, “it was with our understanding that the GLC had a lot of contacts in the Great Lakes area. We thought it would be advantageous to bring them in to do the research. It was more an efficiency thing.

They had a more broad overall access to groups. They dealt

study was $203,400 and that a first draft was finished in the summer of 2005. If one takes those figures as gospel, there is a $240,000 difference between the funds allocated for the study and the money spent to conduct it.

In addition to questions about the time and money spent on the study, concerns also have been raised about the methodology. The data that informed the study was “collected from Great Lakes boaters who are members of the National Boater Panel.” The National Boater Panel was a voluntary online survey, not a random sample taken from the entire population of Great Lakes boaters. As a result, questions about the statistical reliability of the survey results have been raised.

But why do questions about statistical reliability, federal allocations of funds and study timelines matter to the average boater? The answer is in the cover letter John Paul Woodley, Jr., Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works), included when he submitted the final report to Representative Nancy Pelosi, D-California, and Congress.

with a lot of boating groups and companies that we don’t

“From a federal perspective,” he wrote, “boat harbors serving

have access to readily. The thought process at the time was

primarily or solely recreational users do not produce high

that they would do some of the work for us.”

priority outputs, as do harbors and waterways that support

According to Long, the first monies for the study weren’t allocated until 2002, when $208,400 was given. During the first year of funding, $57,522.58 was expended. The next year, another $125,463.73 was spent. In 2004, the year the GLC gathered the data, a further $220,413.69 was allocated. And

high volumes of commercial traffic. Therefore, the President’s budget continues to give priority to those harbors and waterway segments that support high volumes of commercial traffic and significant commercial fishing, subsistence and public transportation benefits.”

another $39,947.93 was allocated over the next three years,

In other words, recreational boating has a smaller

bringing the total cost of the study to $443,347.93.

economic impact than commercial shipping, so the federal

The delay in starting the study was due to the fact that funds were not allocated until 2002, making it impossible for the ACE to meet the bill’s deadline, according to Long. “Eighteen months comes with a caveat that you are fully funded,” he said. “If you don’t have funds, you can’t finish it.” Then once the study was completed, it had to be approved by the Office of Management and Budget and the Secretary of the Army, which didn’t come until December 15, 2008.

20 GLB | May/June 09

government should spend its money maintaining and improving the infrastructure of the latter at the expense of the former. For average, everyday boaters, that could mean deteriorating docks, shallow harbors and polluted waters.

The “Great Lakes Recreational Boating Main Report” may seem a complicated document better left to the experts, but its impact could be felt at docks and on decks around the Great Lakes.

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Magic in the Bottle

By Joseph S. Gulotti

I

was an energetic eleven-year-old, and I could sing every Beatles song from memory. My favorite song was “Help!,” which I played over and over on my four-track tape player. That year Richard Nixon finally won the presidency after two failed efforts and inherited a raging Vietnam. Jimi Hendrix played a psychedelic version of “The Star Spangled Banner” at the Woodstock Festival that summer, and rioting and discontent gripped many American cities.

Amidst all of this, I set sail with my Aunt Dora shortly after noon on June 15, 1969 on the T/N Raffaello, an Italia Line ocean liner of luxurious splendor. We put out to sea from Pier 82, one of the numerous piers that fingered out into the murky waters of the Hudson River on Manhattan’s West Side. It was a warm Sunday afternoon and a brilliant sun reflected off of the Empire State Building, which stood out among the countless,

sounds of a great metropolis were carried on a humid

less characteristic skyscrapers that made up the

breeze. As we lifted anchor, the noise of the city’s traffic

skyline. At the furthest point west on 42nd Street, all the

was drowned out by the deep, drawn-out sound of the ship’s powerful foghorns.

After a few days at sea, I began to get homesick. The feeling quickly passed, however, as the next several days were filled with eating and swimming and running, playing with new friends and going to sleep way past my bedtime.

During one of those days, Aunt Dora had an idea.

Somewhere north of Spain’s volcanic Canary Islands off of the northwest coast of Africa, she encouraged me to believe in magic and to dream the impossible. She told me that if I put a note in a bottle and threw it into the sea that surely someone would find it in some distant time, in some distant land. Captivated by that magical possibility, I got a thin sheet of the ship’s blue stationery from the cabin’s desk and began to write.

Below a line drawing of the ship and Raffaello written

Joseph Gulotti with his Aunt Dora, her husband and his two sisters.

22 GLB | May/June 09

in cursive characters, I began my letter promising to

anyone who found my letter a reward. I stuffed the tightly rolled up treasure into an empty wine bottle and sealed it tightly with a cork. That evening, after dinner, I tossed the bottle overboard. I watched it bob on the waves until it disappeared into the loneliness of the sea. As it faded from view, so did its memory.

Until . . .

One day in March of 1972, the postman delivered a letter addressed Joseph Gulotti, Esq. 92-11 52nd Avenue, Elmhurst, New York 11373, USA. I rarely received any letters, and that one wasn’t like any letter I had ever seen. There was no envelope; instead, it was a single thin sheet of letter paper that when carefully unsealed showed the contents of the correspondence on one side and the address written on the other. Just above the address was a yellow and brown stamp that pictured men building a boat out of wood. In the corner of the stamp was the likeness of the Queen of England. I was so excited. Beside the stamp, it read “par avion aerogramme”; and below that, printed to the character of a triangle, was the outline of the southern coast of Florida, Jamaica and Puerto Rico. Within the triangle were several small dots labeled Turks and Caicos Islands, West Indies. I had no idea what to expect when I opened it.

To my disbelief and with complete astonishment, years after I had cast my wine bottle into the ocean I read the words “On 19 March 1972, I found a bottle on

sealed on a sandy beach almost four thousand miles

. . . .” It was so unexpected, so impossible, but it was

away from where I had dropped it into a devouring

true. Someone really did find my bottle in a distant

sea three years earlier.

time on a distant land.

© istockphoto.com

To my relief, the traveler who discovered my bottle I ran down the stairs as fast as I could and burst into

had relinquished me of my promise of a reward and

Aunt Dora’s apartment. Dozing in her chair quietly

instead rewarded me by taking the time to write to me

listening to Vivaldi on her Victrola, she was startled at

and show me that miracles were possible, if you only

my unexpected entrance.

wish hard enough.

I began to read her the letter. “I found your bottle on

On March 19, 1993, twenty-one years to the day

Great Sand Cay with your note in it. This particular

when my bottle was discovered, I experienced

Cay is uninhabited and the purpose for our visit

another miracle. On that day my wife Cornelia and I

there was just for an outing. You offered a reward,”

were blessed with the birth of our only child, April.

it continued, “however, rather than sending me the

Years later, when she was no older than I was when

reward I would appreciate it if you would send me a

I threw my bottle into the sea, she closed her eyes,

letter telling me when you dropped the bottle in the

made a wish and tossed her own bottled message

ocean. I hope you had a good trip.” It was signed,

off the deck of a boat while cruising the tranquil

“Sincerely, William C. Bivin.”

waters off the Ionian Sea. Perhaps Poseidon will once again deliver a child’s dreams of magic and

As if protected by the Greek God of the sea Poseidon

wonder to a distant shore and into the hands of

himself, my bottle was found unbroken and perfectly

someone else on an outing.

greatlakesboating.com | 23

Celebrate Chicago!

Montrose Harbor

Burnham Harbor

Belmont Harbor

59th Street

Diversey Harbor

Jackson Harbor

DuSable Harbor

Monroe Harbor

The Chicago Harbors and Westrec Marinas invite you to join us for a wonderful boating season!

541 N. Fairbanks Ct. Suite 1020 Chicago, IL 60611 p: 312.742.852 s f: 312.747.6598 www.chicagoharbors.info

THE MERIDIAN 341 SEDAN

© 2009 Brunswick Boat Group, Inc.

THE ONLY STIMULUS YOU’LL EVER NEED. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT YOUR NEAREST MERIDIAN YACHTS DEALER TODAY OR VISIT WWW.MERIDIANYACHTS.COM

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408

441

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580

By William D. Anderson

Plastic worms and tube baits are some of the most popular baits around. There are many different types of plastic baits that come in many shapes and sizes. So how do you choose the right one? Some have salt impregnated tails, bioscents, rattles, f lash; and some claim to out fish live bait. All of them will catch fish at one time or another.

So how do you know which one to throw on any given day?

e c i t o n r o p a t t h g i l “You may feel a s .” e d i s e n o o t f f o g t h e l i n e m ov i n There are two popular ways of rigging plastic worms and tubes. The most popular way to rig a plastic worm is the Texas style. A bullet style weight is threaded onto the line, which is tied directly to the hook. The hook is threaded through the tip of the worm, pulled down and re-inserted into the body of the worm so that the hook is weedless. In some cases a small bead is threaded onto the line between the weight and the hook to protect the knot. It is also done to add noise to the rig to help fish find the bait in murkier water.

Texas rigs are better for fishing heavier cover. The weight will stay closer to the worm and is less likely to get wedged between a branch or a rock. Using heavier line with a Texas rig will allow you to pull a fish out of cover before he has a chance to wrap your line around a branch or stump. Casts should be long enough so that you don’t spook the fish, but not too long so that you lose the sensitivity due to line stretch. Start out by moving the worm very slowly. You may feel a slight tap or notice the line moving off to one side.

That’s your signal to set the hook.

The second most popular way to rig a plastic worm is the Carolina method. This consists of a heavy barrel or cone sinker threaded onto the line first. The next section consists of a couple of bearings, then a ball bearing swivel followed by up to three feet of leader material. Many anglers make their own Carolina rigs, while others prefer to purchase ready-made rigs. Whichever you choose, the leader material should be of less tensile strength than your line so that when you snag, all you lose is a hook rather than the entire rig.

A Carolina rig is a better choice for deeper water. You can make longer casts with it and drift across a large area while keeping in contact with the bottom. The feeling transmitted back through the line will tell you exactly what the bottom contents is. Pay attention to the

vibrations you feel just before a fish picks up your bait because that will tell you what type of content they are favoring.

Plastic tubes are just as versatile as plastic worms and come in as many shapes, colors and sizes. Tube baits can be fished so they imitate baitfish or crayfish. You can ad rattles to tube baits so they are easier to find in murky water.

Just like worms, they will give you a good idea of what the bottom content is made up of if you are using the right line.

When using a tube to imitate a crayfish, it’s best to choose a bait that looks as close to the real thing as possible. Crayfish tend to change colors throughout the year and knowing what color the natural bait is will help you choose the right color.

Bass can also be feeding on minnows, perch, gobies, shad or any other type of baitfish. If you are using a tube to imitate baitfish, knowing what bait they are feeding on will help you choose your presentation. Tube baits are great because they are almost 100 percent weedless and you can get them into heavy cover where baitfish tend to hide from predators.

Tubes are generally rigged with a hook that is made specifically for tubes. These hooks always point up and may or may not have a weight built into them. I will generally use what’s known as a vertical drop hook and rig them weedless.

This allows them to drop vertically while keeping the weight concealed inside the tube. The tip of the hook is re-inserted into the top of the bait so that it doesn’t get hung up on anything else. I can also add a rattle just below the eye of the hook to give it more sound and weight.

Many anglers use fluorocarbon or braided lines for fishing plastics baits because they have less stretch and offer more sensitivity. Their ability to transmit vibrations gives the angler the ability to tell exactly what the bottom content is and what types of structure they are fishing. They also hold up better to the rough conditions found where one would normally fish plastic baits. Because your line will come in contact with rocks and branches, you should perform the “knot test” every few casts. Grab the bait in one hand and then grab the line just above

greatlakesboating.com | 27

the bait with two fingers and run your hand up, if you feel any abrasions, cut the line off above that point and re-tie.

Another test you should perform is to grab the lure in one hand and grab the line a couple feet above the lure and give it a good tug. If it breaks, you know it was time to re-tie.

Better to find out that way than by losing a good fish.

Fluorocarbon lines also sink faster than monofilament line and allow you to use lighter weights. In general you should use the lightest weight possible. This will help avoid snags and allow your baits to swim more naturally. Bass will often inhale a plastic worm rather than strike it aggressively so the bite might be undetectable. Using a lighter weight and more sensitive line will help an angler feel these “light” bites.

There are as many ways to fish plastics as there are types of plastics. Worms can be allowed to drop and free fall, they can be dragged along the bottom, or they can be hopped and twitched. You can swim a tube bait like a you would a crank bait or fish it like a plastic worm. If one presentation doesn’t work, keep trying different ones until you find the one that does.

Regardless of how you fish a plastic bait, you will want to use a fairly heavy-duty rod. The rod should have enough backbone to give you a good solid hook-set. With tubes, you can usually pull back sharply to set the hook. With Texasrigged worms you will often have to reel down to a 3 o’clock position then pull up sharply to 12 o’clock. With a Carolina rig, the hook set is generally more of a sweeping motion to one side or the other. Bait-casting rigs are usually preferred for fishing plastic baits although many pros will use spinning gear to pitch tubes far back under docks.

One last word of caution about plastic baits: Never mix them up in your tackle box. The different types of plastic can react with each other leaving you with one big gooey mess and a ruined tackle box. Keep your plastic baits in their original containers and they will last a lot longer.

Plastic bait images by Trigger X. Other photos by William D. Anderson.

28 GLB | May/June 09

“There are as m a ny way to fish p s lastics as ther t y pe s o e are f plasti cs.”

Great Lakes

Photos courtesy ©D. Finnin/AMNH

WATER EXHIBITION IN CHICAGO

Tree states of water.

Cambodia fishing village.

Though boaters are constantly reminded of how important

unique elements that focus visitors’ attention on the area’s

water is, a new exhibition at Chicago’s Field Museum is an

largest source of fresh water: Lake Michigan.

eye-opening look at how truly vital this substance is. The summer 2009 exhibition, Water, is a timely, in-depth, thoughtprovoking experience for the whole family, focusing on how we use water and the future of this natural resource. The 7,500-square-foot exhibition illuminates many challenges

The exhibition incorporates numerous hands-on interactive experiences, including a simulation of a river dam, a 3-D theater, immersive dioramas and a seven-foot globe featuring a multimedia presentation on the global nature of water.

various cultures encounter with water and explores the many

Gold Pass tickets to Water include basic admission to the

ways water shapes life on Earth, making our planet livable.

Field Museum and are priced at $23 for adults, $20 for

The Field Museum is one stop on the exhibition’s international tour, and the Chicago presentation features

seniors and students with ID and $13 for children three to 11.

Discounts are available for Chicago residents. fieldmuseum.org // (866) FIELD-03

IMPROVEMENT IN BALLAST WATER INSPECTION PROCESS “The 2008 Summary of Great Lakes Seaway Ballast Water Working Group” released by the U.S. Coast Guard examined the U.S.-Canada Great Lakes Seaway System ballast water ship inspection program. The report finds that 99 percent of all oceangoing ships bound for the Great Lakes Seaway System ports from outside U.S. or Canadian waters in 2008 received a ballast tank exam, compared with 74 percent in 2007. Moreover, the report found that 98.6 percent of all ships were in compliance with ballast water management requirements, compared with 95 percent in 2007.

In 2008, the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation implemented regulations requiring all oceangoing ships with no ballast in their tanks to conduct A U.S. government report shows a notable increase in

saltwater flushing of their empty ballast water tanks before

the number of ballast tank inspections of oceangoing

arriving in the Seaway.

commercial ships entering the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System from outside U.S. or Canadian waters. Ship operators also improved their compliance with ballast water requirements in 2008 compared with 2007, the report says.

30 GLB | May/June 09

greatlakes-seaway.com

NEW FUNDS TO PREVENT INVASIVE SPECIES Photos courtesy U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Nearly $1 million in new federal money will go toward preventing the introduction of aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes by funding the Great Ships Initiative (GSI), a collaborative effort to hasten shipping free of invasive species on the Great Lakes.

GSI generates much needed independent evaluations of proposed ballast treatments performance and toxicity in fresh water. As regulatory authorities gear up to require ballast treatment prior to discharge into natural waters, the research outcomes are of keen interest regionally, domestically and internationally.

Invasive species cause significant economic and environmental damage to aquatic systems globally, including the Great Lakes. Commercial saltwater ships account for the majority of new introductions of aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes, and all ships that ply the system are potential vectors for the spread of invasive organisms once they are introduced.

Proposed treatment systems include ozone, ultra violet irradiation, chemical additives, deoxygenation and filtration, usually in some combination.

MICHIGAN CITY GETS SUPER BOAT RACE On the Saturday before race day, fans are welcome to join the teams to get an up-close look at the racers, their boats and their equipment. And after the race, spectators are welcome to visit the dry pit area, where the teams will be given their awards.

Michigan City is one of many stops of the 2009 SBIP season. Before Indiana, there will be a number of races at various Florida locations. Afterward, the super fast boats will speed off to New York City and Photos courtesy Jason L Miller, LaPorte County CVB

North Carolina before returning to Florida, where the

Super Boat International Productions (SBIP) has added a

World Championship race will be held in Key West.

race to this year’s schedule in Michigan City, Indiana. Called

superboat.com

the Great Lakes Grand Prix, the race will be held August 9.

Spectators will be able to watch the sleek, fast machines from a viewing area in Washington Park, which is on the southern shore of Lake Michigan.

BAY BREEZE ADDS SALES ASSOCIATE Traverse City, Michigan’s Bay Breeze

A hard worker who really enjoys what

Yacht Sales has announced that

she does, give her a call if you are

Catherine Allchin has joined the

moving up, down or out of the boating

company as a sales associate. Catherine

lifestyle, Catherine will be happy to

comes to Bay Breeze with a lifetime of

assist you in your boating needs. She

experience in the boating industry.

can be reached by phone at the Bay

“I really enjoy the process of helping others create memories on the water, there is nothing like it! It has to be fun.”

Breeze toll free number (866) 941-5884 or on her cell at (231) 883-7645. Visit the Bay Breeze web site to see both new and used boats for sale.

baybreezeyachtsales.com

greatlakesboating.com | 31

Photo courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

MONEY AVAILABLE FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION

Fishing

The grants are funded under the authority of the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act, which provides assistance to states, tribes and other interested entities to encourage cooperative conservation, restoration and management of native fish and wildlife resources and their habitat in the Great Lakes Basin.

Ten projects were selected for funding with 2008 funds. Grant recipients include Ducks Unlimited, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Michigan DNR, Michigan State University, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Superior Watershed Partnership and the University of Illinois.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has made available

Project proposals are developed by interested entities

$593,089 in federal funding for fish and wildlife restoration

and sponsored each year by tribes and states in the Great

projects in the Great Lakes Basin. The projects will be

Lakes in response to a request for proposals from the

matched by $278,810 in partner contributions, and will

Service.

focus on the rehabilitation of sustainable populations of

fws.gov/midwest

native fish and wildlife and their habitats.

ONLINE LICENSE AND GAME CHECK SYSTEM TO LAUNCH IN 2011 The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division

to the March 1, 2011 implementation date, a number of pilot

of Wildlife, has entered into a contract with The Active

projects will be implemented in order to ensure the new

Network, Inc. to build and implement a Web-based license

system’s readiness.

sales and game check system. This new system will replace the existing, hunting, fishing and trapping license/permit sales system on March 1, 2011.

Hunters, trappers and anglers will see minor changes in the appearance of their license, but the licensing process will remain the same. Deer and turkey hunters will be

The new system will incorporate better management and

introduced to a new system that will allow them to easily

integration of license sales information, hunter education,

and conveniently check game at a license vendor, by phone

publication distribution and tracking, special permitting

or on the Internet.

initiatives, controlled hunt allocations, arrest report tracking

wildohio.com

and improved game check processes—all in real time. Prior

SHEBOYGAN JUNIOR COHO DERBY On June 27, kids ages seven to 15 will have a chance to try

Marine, The Sheboygan Outboard Club, Local 833 UAW,

their luck fishing out on Lake Michigan. And no matter how

Daane’s Siding & Roofing and Trout Unlimited.

big their catch, all young participants will receive prizes for their efforts, along with food and beverages.

Many area establishments have made this event possible, including The Wharf Bait & Tackle, Miesfeld’s, Thompson

32 GLB | May/June 09

There is limited availability for children whose parents do not have a boat, and children must be registered by June 21. Admission is free.

(920) 458-4406

The round goby is dominating large

Gobies, native to eastern

areas of the Great Lakes and

Europe, were first

connecting waterways. Gobies breed

discovered in the St. Clair

profoundly and eat immense quantities,

River in 1990. Today, about

causing unbelievable changes to the

10 million pounds of gobies

base of a food chain that supports

live in Lake Michigan. That

the Great Lakes $7 billion sport and

is nearly one-quarter, by

commercial fisheries.

weight, of all bait fish in the

New research conducted in Green Bay, Wisconsin, found that gobies were hogging tiny aquatic organisms that other fish species need to survive.

Dave Brenner, Michigan Sea Grant

SPREAD OF ROUND GOBIES

lake. They have been found in all five Great Lakes and in rivers in all eight surrounding U.S. states.

The proliferation of gobies in Lake Michigan has prompted some anglers

Beneficially, they also feast on zebra

Gobies are a food source for some

to speculate that the invaders could

and quagga mussels, both also invasive

larger fish species, including bass and

become a new food source for salmon.

species. This is a double-edged sword:

walleye. But the invaders also are a

Experts said that is unlikely because

shrinking mussel populations reduce

conduit for a naturally occurring toxin

gobies are bottom-feeders and salmon

noxious algae blooms, but the mussels’

that causes botulism,

aren’t, so their paths rarely cross.

shells are often colonized by desirable

or food poisoning.

aquatic organisms that fish eat.

MICHIGAN DNR TO CONTINUE LIMITED WALLEYE PRODUCTION The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will continue

as it maintains a separate facility that will prevent the spread

limited production of walleye fry for the 2009 season as a

of potential VHS into steelhead-rearing facilities should

precaution against spreading viral hemorrhagic septicemia

infection occur.

(VHS) into inland waters.

Currently, there is no proven method for disinfecting walleye

VHS has been found in various parts of the Great Lakes

eggs. All adult brood stock will be tested for VHS, as will

and connecting waterways, which is where the best walleye

samples of walleye fry and fingerlings before they are

broodstock sources are located.

stocked. In 2009, fingerlings will be stocked only in inland

Fisheries staffers will take eggs and milt from walleyes in the Muskegon River and Little Bay de Noc. The Saginaw Bay/ Tittabawassee strain will not be used again this year. Only the Thompson State Fish Hatchery will be used to incubate eggs

lakes that have no inlets or outlets, or into lakes with no direct connections to the Great Lakes. No fingerlings will be stocked in the Lake Superior watershed. michigan.gov/dnrfishing

TO ADVERTISE IN

GLB please email: ads@greatlakesboating.com

greatlakesboating.com | 33

Yacht Clubs

YACHT CLUB PROFILE: GREEN BAY YACHT CLUB

two lighthouses were built in 1872 on the island one and one-half miles north of their current site. They guided ships into the port of Green Bay for many decades until they were decommissioned and ultimately relocated to the club in 1966.

Members and volunteers have donated many dollars and countless hours to restoring the lights. Their efforts have been rewarded with the lights now placed on both the State of Wisconsin Registry of Historic Sites and the National Registry of Historic Places.

The Green Bay Yacht Club (GBYC), located at the mouth of the Fox River, was first incorporated in 1872, making it one of

A host of activities fill the club’s social calendar throughout

the oldest on the Great Lakes. Today the organization boasts

the year. The upcoming Mothers’ Day Brunch is one of the

more than 200 members and has an attractive clubhouse

most popular, featuring an elaborate buffet, dinner music

with full bar and kitchen facilities. The harbor offers 83 slips,

and champagne for moms. Also in May, the club hosts

a 25-ton travelift, gas dock and pump out with seasonal and

the annual Welcome Aboard/Launch party to celebrate

transient docks and winter storage available.

the start of a new boating season. A Poker Run, Luau and a Dinghy Poker Run are among the annual summer fun.

There are two membership levels: boating members who have

There is typically at least one party each month in addition

access to the docks and harbor; and social members who

to weekly activities like Happy Hour, Packer Game Day

just want to enjoy the boating environment and clubhouse.

specials, NASCAR specials and other opportunities to share

The club is a “participatory” organization with members

camaraderie with fellow boating enthusiasts.

volunteering hours to manage and maintain the building and grounds. The resultant cost savings make the GBYC one of

The GBYC is an affiliate of the Lake Michigan Yachting

the best boating bargains on the lakes.

Association and offers reciprocal privileges to other LMYA members. For transient slip availability or additional

The club is particularly proud of the historic Grassy Island

information contact the club.

range lights that grace the entrance to the GBYC Harbor. The greenbayyachtclub.com

MILWAUKEE BAY CHALLENGE On Saturday June 13 and Sunday June 14, the Milwaukee Yacht Club (MYC) will host the Milwaukee Bay Challenge as a benefi t for America’s Second Harvest of Wisconsin.

The Milwaukee Bay Challenge regatta is open to all LMPHRF and one-design boats that meet the requirements in the Notice of Race, which is available at the club website. Eligible boats may mail in an entry form, but there will also be on-site registration available from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday or on Saturday until 8:30 a.m.

All skippers and crew are requested to bring at least one non-perishable food item to MYC at registration on Friday, or sometime during the day on Saturday or Sunday to the MYC Office. Those who do contribute will be given a wristband for free beer at the post-race party on Saturday.

The Bay Challenge is an opportunity for sailors from around Milwaukee Bay and beyond to race together and contribute to charity. milwaukeeyc.com

34 GLB | May/June 09

YC

CLEVELAND RACE WEEK The event will begin on Saturday, June 20 with one design racing. Specialized racing will be held during the week including CR914 and Soling One Meter racing on the evening of June 22, a women’s night of racing on June 23 and a full day devoted to junior racing on June 24. Thursday, June 25 begins the off-shore class racing with the North Coast Mather Race, and Friday, June 26 is the Stewart/ Jones Schnur Race. Saturday, June 27 will be the 46th running of the 50-plus and Kidd Memorial Race, and Sunday finishes the event with the McCrone Memorial Race.

Cleveland Race Week (CRW), June 20-28, 2009, will be held at the Edgewater Yacht Club for the first time. Race organizers

Edegwater Yacht Club (EYC) is located on Lake Erie adjacent

are expecting to have at least 200 boats from more than 20

to the 117-acre Cleveland Lakefront State Park, at the western

classes registered during the entire event. CRW is an Inland

end of the five-mile-long main harbor. EYC was chartered in

Lake Yachting Association counter for the Traveler Series.

1914 as a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the sport of boating. ewyc.org/CRW2009

PETOSKEY’S BAY HARBOR YC TO EXPAND Situated on five miles of Lake Michigan shoreline between Petoskey and Charlevoix, the Bay Harbor community encompasses luxury homes, a world-class hotel, a conference center, a marina, an equestrian facility, a golf course and a 23,000 squarefoot yacht club. The yacht club has 545 members, who enjoy many exceptional amenities.

This July, Bay Harbor Yacht Club will unveil the Lange Center, expanding the club to 61,000 square feet. Included in the new building are 50 percent more space for the fitness club and a 10,000 square-foot ballroom. The ballroom will be used specifically to host special events and private functions for members and guests of Bay Harbor.

Construction on the structure began in September, and is expected to be complete by May. It will not be formally unveiled, however, until late July, during the annual Baynanza event. The project was funded mostly through private donations. bayharboryc.com

greatlakesboating.com | 35

Marinas

NEW OWNER OF HARBOR HILL MARINA

City is struggling with a down turn in the economy. Morgan’s purchase of Harbor Hill Marina will complement the upscale Morgan Waterfront Development Homes that he has built next to the marina.

Morgan, an avid boater himself, understands what boaters like, want and expect in a marina, and he is determined to make Harbor Hill a premiere boating resort. Slated projects include developing the marina into a resort, providing full marina services and adding such amenities as a restaurant, tiki bar, gift shop, playground, covered pavilion, fitness center, sauna and game room. The marine will also provide accommodations for concerts, private parties and other major events, as well as offer shuttle service to downtown Local businessman Jerome Morgan is now the sole owner of

Detroit venues.

Harbor Hill Marina, long renowned as one of Detroit’s most popular marinas. The purchase marks another historical

Morgan and his team also plan to reach out to the community

moment in Detroit as it joins a select number of cities that

through “Give Back” programs that include working with local

have marinas owned and operated by African-Americans.

charities and youth programs.

The business transaction comes at a time when the Motor

harborhillmarina.com

BUFFALO BOAT HARBOR IMPROVEMENTS

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority’s (NFTA) Boat

in time for the marina’s opening on May 15. Work on the

Harbor will receive $1 million in improvements by mid-May,

remaining docks, which have slip space for another 231

when the marina opens.

boaters, will be completed in spring 2010.

Three steel docks, which were damaged during a severe

The refurbished docks are expected to have an additional

storm last fall, are being restored. Heavy winds and waves

life span of 10 years. The total cost of the dock upgrade

last September pulled the docks from their moorings, twisting

project is $544,000.

them out of shape. They have been repaired, sandblasted and repainted making them look like new.

This season’s NFTA Boat Harbor work will also include electrification of the “L” dock, which accommodates 66

The steel docks account for more than one-half of the public

boaters. A new marina fuel tank will also be installed at a cost

marina’s 1,019 slips. The NFTA will have completed repairs

of $300,000.

and resurfacing of docks servicing a total of 328 slip holders

36 GLB | May/June 09

nfta.com/boatharbor.asp

RED ROCK MARINA ENHANCEMENTS Beginning in May 2009, several improvements will enhance the marina. The fueling peninsula dock will be extended to accommodate larger boats and on and off loading of supplies. Two new spines with slips for 16 vessels larger than 40 feet will be constructed. Dredging will also create a safe lane for the larger boats.

New efficient electrical pedestals, a high-end surveillance and security system and larger diesel fuel tanks will be installed as part of the project. The work is expected to be completed The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation is

by October 2009. The marina will remain open during the

providing $415,600 to the municipality to expand and

construction with very little disruption.

improve the capacity at the Red Rock Marina. The marina is located on the western shore of Nipigon Bay in northern Lake Superior. An innovative breakwall, which integrates fish and wildlife habitats into its design, protects the 50-slip marina.

Another enhancement project is planned for the near future to construct a new Waterfront Centre. The building will house washrooms with showers, laundry facilities, an interpretive area, a performing arts venue and storefronts. redrocktownship.ca

GARY HIRES DESIGN FIRM FOR MARINA W.F. Baird & Associates has been awarded a $1.2 million contract from the city of Gary, Indiana to design a marina in Buffington Harbor. The money for the project comes from the Lake Michigan Marina Development Commission, which had set aside state tax dollars for the development of marina projects about 15 years ago. The cities of East Chicago, Hammond, Michigan and Portage have already used money from the fund

SIP, SAVOR

& SMILE TASTE OF THE GREAT LAKES

to build marinas.

The first phase of the project will include 110 season slips, 37 transient slips, a fuel dock and a harbor-front walk. It is expected that 460 seasonal slips will be added during the second phase of the project.

W.F. Baird received $12,900 from the city of Gary in 2007 to conduct a market and economic analysis for the marina development. Once the

Thursday, June 11, 2009 Eat, drink, bid on great packages, enter a raffle, enjoy live music and help celebrate another year of hopeful progress.

Bid online at greatlakes.cmarket.com

company receives the $1.2 million, there will be about $500,000 remaining in the development fund, which may force the city to seek other funds in

Shaw’s Crab House 21 East Hubbard, Chicago 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

order to build the marina.

Ensuring a Living Resource for all Generations

JOIN US!

Tickets at the door, online at greatlakes.org or call 312-939-0838.

4.5 MILLION BOATERS NOW HAVE A VOICE (312) 266-8408 //

GREATLAKESBOATINGFEDERATION.COM

Ensuring a Living Resource for all Generations

greatlakesboating.com | 37

LAKE ERIE INTERCLUB CRUISE

Cruising The Lake Erie Interclub Cruise is one of the few events in the world that provides international country-to-country and portto-port distance racing for its participating yachts. This year’s event, raced by boats from the United States and Canada, will be held from June 26 to July 1.

In addition to the racing and cruising, the regatta provides plenty of time to experience the hospitalities of the participating clubs: Buffalo Yacht Club,

©erieinterclub.com

Buffalo Canoe Club, Dunkirk Yacht Club, Erie Yacht Club, Sugarloaf Sailing Club, Buffalo Harbor Sailing Club and the Port Dover Yacht Club. erieinterclub.com View of 2008 race taken from Powder Hound

FREE CRUISING DAYS Celebrating its 25th anniversary

one free extra day of cruising and

Charterers enjoy cruises 12 months a

in 2009, Southwest Florida Yachts

sailing, said Barb Hansen of Southwest

year through a barrier island paradise

announced that sail and power-yacht

Florida Yachts.

featuring tropical birds and sea-life

charters of three days or more will receive two free days of cruising time for cruises between May 1 through December 13, 2009 and for the same period in 2010.

Southwest Florida Yachts charters power yachts from 28 to 43 feet and sailing yachts from 24 to 34 feet long for cruising and sailing the nearshore Gulf of Mexico and the inland waters

In addition, high season charters of

between the Florida barrier islands of

three days or more between December

Sanibel/Captiva and the village of Punta

14 and April 30 will be rewarded with

Gorda on Charlotte Harbor.

such as manatees and dolphins.

Magazine articles have ranked Southwest Florida among the top 10 yacht sailing and cruising areas in the world and the barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva as among the best islands to visit for their ambiance, beaches, friendliness, restaurants and scenery. swfyachts.com // (800) 262-7939

CRUISERS’ SEMINAR WEEKEND On August 22 to 23, Bob Bitchin, editor and publisher of

Seminar is a two-day basic essentials of marine weather and

Latitudes & Attitudes Magazine, will present an Advanced

forecasting workshop that will teach mariners the rudiments

Cruising Seminar at the Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic,

of forecasting and knowing weather patterns.

Connecticut. The seminar is comprised of 16 hours of easy-to-assimilate sections that cover the selecting of the right vessel, preparing your boat for cruising, safety at sea, communications, provision, route planning, weather and cruising with children.

That same weekend, Lee Chesneau, one of the world’s leading authorities on marine weather, will present an Advanced Weather Seminar. The Advanced Weather

38 GLB | May/June 09

The seminars will run simultaneously, so you can choose the one that is right for you. But the seminars are only two days. Admission price includes books, buffet lunches and Saturday’s waterfront party including buffet dinner and an Eric Stone concert, as well as a three-day pass for Mystic Seaport Museum. seafaring.com // (888) 8-WE SAIL

THE BRUCE COAST LIGHTHOUSE TOUR Stretching from Point Photos by Telfer Wegg

Clark, Ontario, Canada in the south to Tobermory in the north, the Bruce Coast Lighthouse Tour features 15 distinctive lighthouse and marine heritage sites along the shores of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay for you to explore. Plan to spend a week Kincardine Lighthouse

(or more) and tour the scenic

Point Clark Lighthouse

communities surrounding each site. Climb a 150-year-

You can begin your tour at the Point Clark Lighthouse and

old Imperial Tower, become an assistant keeper at Cabot

meander along the Lake Huron shoreline (2 to 3 days). After

Head or Flowerpot Lightstation, view the Ghostly Guardians

touring the Tobermory sites, head back down the Peninsula

of the Bruce Coast exhibit at the Bruce County Museum and

along the Georgian Bay side and end your tour with the Cape

Cultural Centre and take a glass-bottom boat cruise to see

Croker Light (2 to 3 days).

real shipwrecks. The Bruce Coast is 854 kilometres long and

brucecoastlighthouses.com

is home to Fathom Five National Marine Park.

DROP ANCHOR AT ROYAL PLANTATION ISLAND

invited to enjoy their cocktails or a round of billiards at the adjoining bar.

For those individuals seeking a full day Royal Plantation Island, a 50-acre

Offshore package. Priced at $100/

private island located at Fowl Cay in

person, the package includes

the heart of the Bahamian chain of the

unlimited premium cocktails, wine and

Exumas, is now offering two exclusive

champagne in addition to a five-course

deals to cruising yachtsmen, charter

dinner at the resort’s Harbour Club

captains and crews.

restaurant or Limestone Terrace. The

Seafarers in need of a night on dry land are invited to experience dinner at the exclusive retreat with the Escape

fine dining Harbour Club places diners at the center of the ocean, under a vibrant Bahamian sky. After dinner, guests are

away from the sea, Royal Plantation Island has created the Drop Anchor & Spend the Night at Royal Plantation Island at Fowl Cay package inviting guests of the island to choose from a one-, two- or three-bedroom private villa and enjoy fully catered breakfast, lunch and dinner. Villa rates start at $995 per night. royalplantation.com // (242) 357-0095

greatlakesboating.com | 39

National

MAJOR BOATING GRANTS FOR 11 STATES Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar has announced more

on certain fishing and boating equipment and boat fuels.

than $12.5 million in competitive grants that will be awarded

The Service will also release approximately $3 million to

to California, Florida, Illinois, Maine, Mississippi, North

40 states willing to match a smaller, non-competitive grant

Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and the State

program known as BIG Tier One funding.

of Washington for 14 boating infrastructure projects. The grants, which will help fund construction of docks, boat slips and other facilities to support recreational boating, are made available through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) program.

Funding for the BIG program comes from the Sport Fishing

Boating Infrastructure Grant funds are used to construct, renovate and maintain tie-up facilities with features for transient boats (those staying 10 days or less) that are 26 feet or more in length and cannot be transported by trailer. The funds are also used to produce and distribute information and educational materials about the program.

and Boating Trust Fund, formerly known as the Aquatic

fws.gov

Resources Trust Fund, which is supported by excise taxes

SEAWAY RECEIVES FUNDING

investment,” said U.S. SLSDC Administrator Collister Johnson, Jr. “By enacting this law, President Obama and the U.S. Congress have The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (SLSDC) will initiate

recognized the vital importance of the St. Lawrence Seaway to the North American economy.”

its planned 10-year program this year to modernize the

Over the next decade, the ARP will focus on improving

infrastructure of the U.S. portion of the St. Lawrence

aging Seaway infrastructure, conducting maintenance

Seaway, following President Obama’s signing of the

dredging, investing in new technologies, purchasing new

omnibus appropriations bill that includes a total of $31.8

equipment and refurbishing old facilities. This will be the

million for the Seaway.

first time in the Seaway’s history that a coordinated effort

The enacted funding includes more than $17 million allocated to 17 projects under the Seaway’s Asset Renewal

to repair and modernize the U.S. Seaway infrastructure has taken place.

Program (ARP). A significant amount of the ARP funding in

ARP also will complement the asset renewal work already

FY 2009 will benefit the regional economy surrounding the

underway on the Canadian portion of the St. Lawrence

two U.S. locks in Massena, New York.

Seaway System. None of the ARP projects will result in

“After 50 years of continuous use, the U.S. Seaway infrastructure needs significant capital

40 GLB | May/June 09

increases to the authorized depth or width of the navigation channel or to the size of the existing U.S. locks.

VOLUNTEERS REMOVE SEVEN MILLION POUNDS OF MARINE DEBRIS The Ocean Conservancy has released “A Rising Tide of Ocean Debris and What We Can Do About It.” The report features the organization’s annual Marine Debris Index, which is the world’s only country-by-country, state-bystate analysis of trash in our ocean and waterways.

The trash was collected and the data recorded by the nearly 400,000 volunteers around the world who combed their local beaches and waterways during the 23rd International Coastal Cleanup, the largest volunteer effort of its kind. Volunteers removed 6.8 million pounds of debris from 6,485 sites in 104 countries and 42 U.S. states and the District of Columbia with a common mission of improving the health of the ocean. This year’s report zeroes in on the hazardous impacts of trash on wildlife and the resilience of our ocean in the wake of rising sea levels, global warming and acidification, some of the most serious effects of global climate change.

“Trash doesn’t fall from the sky, it falls from our hands,” said Vikki Spruill, president and CEO of Ocean Conservancy. “Humans have created the problem of marine debris, and humans should step up and solve it.”

Ocean trash is one of the most widespread pollution problems of our time, and the report goes beyond the numbers to identify the sources of the pollution and make a series of recommendations to stop marine debris. oceanconservancy.org

FREE VESSEL SAFETY CHECKS Once again this boating season, the U.S. Coast Guard

is discovered, the examiner

Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons have

will give the boater options and

teamed up to offer free Vessel Safety Checks (VSC) to all

information for correcting it.

interested boaters.

Vessel Safety Checks are available

Qualified vessel examiners inspect boats to ensure that

on coastal waters, lakes and rivers

required safety equipment is present and in functional

across the country. The volunteer

condition. The examiners also check for any basic

examiners will make themselves available

mechanical problems, make sure registration and

to schedule a time and place for the VSC that

documentation are current and offer information on a

is convenient for the boaters. These safety checks can be

variety of boating safety issues.

performed on any kind of watercraft—kayaks, canoes, and

The VSC is performed free of charge and without any legal obligations or penalties. If a potential problem or violation

personal watercraft to large cabin cruisers and sailboats. vesselsafetycheck.org

greatlakesboating.com | 41

Sailing

BAYVIEW YACHT CLUB AND CHICAGO CLUB TO STAGE SUPER MAC Bayview Yacht Club and Chicago Yacht Club have announced

“The ‘Super Mac’ will offer a

that they will jointly sponsor a 490-nautical-mile sailing race

unique challenge to sailors

known as the “Super Mac” in July. The start of the Super Mac

around the world,” Frank

will coincide with the start of the 101st Chicago Yacht Club Race

Kern, Chairman of the

to Mackinac on July 18, 2009. The Super Mac will finish in Port

Bayview Mackinac Race,

Huron, Michigan, and serve as a feeder race for the 85th sailing

noted. “This 490-nautical-

of the Bayview Mackinac Race, which will start on July 25, 2009.

mile event will be the

The Super Mac was last run in 2000, starting in Port Huron and ending in Chicago. This year, the Super Mac will reverse course, beginning in Chicago, head up Lake Michigan, through the finish line of the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, cross to the north of Bois Blanc Island and continue on through Lake Huron. The Super Mac will finish in front of the Acheson

world’s longest and most challenging freshwater race in 2009,” Kern added. “We are proud to collaborate with Bayview Yacht Club on the 2009 Super Mac,” Greg Miarecki, Chairman of the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, said.

Venture’s Maritime Center at the intersection of the Black and

All entries must be officially entered and participate in the

St. Clair rivers and across from the Port Huron Yacht Club in

Chicago Race to Mackinac to qualify for the Super Mac.

Port Huron, Michigan.

Registration began April 9. The entry fee is $135 per yacht. chicagoyachtclub.org/racetomackinac // byc.com/mack

TOP-TIER WOMEN RACERS RETURN TO MARYLAND World-class match racing comes to Maryland from May 26 through 30, when the Photo by Justin McCabe, AnnapolisRacing.com

top international women match racers are scheduled to compete in the 18th Annual BoatU.S. Santa Maria Cup. Hosted by Eastport Yacht Club and sponsored by BoatU.S., the regatta is a must-enter for women competing in match racing, a fast-paced duel between two sailboats that often sees the winner crossing the finish line just inches ahead of the challenger.

Each skipper leads a handpicked crew of three. Over the course of three days a series of round-robin heats, each lasting about 15 minutes, will determine who goes to the finals on Saturday, May 30. Unlike sailing races where big budgets and expensive hi-tech boats can have an advantage, these match racers will take to the Chesapeake Bay course in identical J-22 (22-foot) sailboats. santamariacup.org

HOOK RACE The Racine Yacht Club will

There will also be a separate race for racers in a Double-

host the 22nd annual Hook

handed Category.

Race from Racine, Wisconsin to Marinette and Menominee Yacht Club in Menominee, Michigan on July 18.

The HOOK Race is a challenging 197.4-nautical -mile race that begins in Racine and ends near Door County, the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” The HOOK Race combines strong competition with the navigational challenge of Death’s

The first HOOK Race was

Door. Finishing the race so close to Door County provides

sailed in 1984 with 12 boats

opportunities for cruising vacations afterwards. This Category

racing from Racine, Wisconsin

3 race is open to all sailboats eligible to make a race of this

to Menominee, Michigan. In 1986 the finish location was

distance and duration, with full regard to the safety of the

changed to Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. This year the race will

vessel and crew.

return to the M&M Yacht Club in Menominee for the finish.

42 GLB | May/June 09

racineyachtclub.org

NORDIC TUGS 26’ 32’ 37’ 42’ 49’ 54’

QUEEN’S CUPSM RACE The 71st sailing of the

Classic Cruising Trawlers

Queen’s Cup Race from the Southern Shore Yacht Club (SSYC) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to the Muskegon Yacht Club in Muskegon, Michigan will be held on June 26, 2009. It is expected that between 180 to 200 boats will participate in this over-night race.

New to the race for 2009 is a short-handed division. This

RANGER TUGS 21’ 25’ 29’

Trailerable Trawlers

division will be open to monohull entries with a maximum crew size of two. Self-steering devices will be allowed, harnesses must be worn and the crew must be tethered whenever on deck. Boats will be scored using their DHCP ratings.

The race is open to boats of the LMPHRF, LMPHRF multihull and one-design classes that meet the following restrictions: a) 10 entries are required for a one-design class, except three entries for the GL 70 class. If the minimum requirement is not met, the entries may be assigned to the PHRF fleet.

Bay Breeze Yacht Sales BROKERAGE POWER 43 Carver 404 2000 Stellar Condition, Loaded 42 Nordic Tug 2008, Loaded, NEW 40 Regal 402 1997 Owner Motivated 37 Nordic Tug 2007 Loaded, NEW

b) Five multihull entries are required for there to be a multihull fleet.

$119,000* Call Reduced $435,000

37 Nordic Tug 1998 Gen, A/C, Electronics

$299,000

32 Nordic Tug 2009 NEW, Well Equipped

c) Five entries are required for the short-handed division.

$169,900

Reduced $659,900

MSRP $337,300

32 Nordic Tug 2002 Gen, A/C, Radar

$209,000

31 Maxium 2002 Well Equipped, Full Enclosure

$79,000

30 Mainship Pilot Hardtop 2002, Low Hours

$85,000

27 Tiara 2700 1984 Fresh Water, Ready to Fish

$29,900

Thursday, starting at 6:00 p.m.

25 Ranger Tug 2008 Loaded, NEW, 110 Yanmar, Gen, A/C, Trailer, Radar

$139,000

Milwaukee’s Summerfest celebration will be going on

25 Ranger Tug 2008 Loaded, 36 hours, Radar, Gen, A/C, 150 HP Cummins

$145,000

Registration will take place from 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 25, through 3:00 p.m. on Friday. The Queen’s Cup Cocktail Party will be held on

that Thursday and Friday. Shuttle buses will be running between the Summerfest grounds and SSYC both days.

25 Rosborough 246, 2004, 150 Yamaha, 8HP Troll, Gen, A/C, Radar, Trailer $84,000

Muskegon Yacht Club will host the finish.

22 Crownline 220EX, 2009, Deckboat, 32 Hours, Like New

$67,000

ssyc.org/queenscup

SAIL 43 Beneteau 1987, Roller Jib, 200hrs on New Engine $92,000

ARE YOU UP TO DATE ON GREAT LAKES NEWS? WE ARE. GET DAILY UPDATES AT NEWS.GREATLAKESBOATING.COM

32 Beneteau 323 2004, Great Boat, Well Equipped

$78,000

28 S2 8.6 1984 Good Condition, Great Starter Boat

$18,000

BAY BREEZE YACHT SALES 12935 W. BAY SHORE DR. SUITE 125 TRAVERSE CITY, MI 49684 TOLL-FREE: 866.941.5884; 231.941.5884 FAX: 231.941.9548 E-MAIL: INFO@BAYBREEZEYACHTSALES.COM

WWW.BAYBREEZEYACHTSALES.COM greatlakesboating.com | 43

NEW BOATS

CROSSCURRENT

CROSSCURRENT U.23 CARBON ULTRA RIGID INFLATABLE CrossCurrent Marine’s U.23 is a rigid inflatable boat constructed of proprietary carbon and Kevlar® epoxy composite. Lightweight and ultradurable, it is well equipped for coastal cruising or excursions in open water and is perfect for scuba diving, fishing, water skiing or wakeboarding.

Capable of achieving speeds of 45 knots, the U.23 maintains stability and a comfortable ride at high speeds under reasonable load and conditions. The craft’s teak deck offers accommodations for sunning, sitting and entertaining. The rear seat lounge and leaning post convert to a 3.9-foot-wide sun bed or bench and table for meals, while the front platform extension provides another, more spacious, sunbathing area. The hard-top arch design offers sun protection, an overhead compartment for installing electronics, support for fishing and sun shade poles, mounting for audio speakers and nighttime deck lighting and a mounting point for a wake boarding tow line. The deck of the U.23 slopes rearward for easy cleaning and self-bailing and a telescoping swim ladder is nested under the port platform. The craft’s driving console opens for easy access to the integrated icebox and tube inflator pump.

The U.23 is rated to carry a maximum of five people in wind conditions not exceeding 42 mph and waves up to 13 feet, and a maximum of 12 people in wind conditions not exceeding 28 mph and waves up to 6.5 feet. The U.23 Carbon is protected by a 5-year hull and tube warranty.

With twin diesel Volvo D6 engines (370 hp each), the boat cruises at 25 knots. crosscurrentmarine.com

44 GLB | May/June 09

NORDIC

NORDIC

With an overall length of 26 feet 4 inches, a 9-foot 6-inch beam and 39-inch draft, the 2009 Nordic Tug 26 offers the consumer a pocket-trawler with classic Nordic Tugs styling, manufactured using today’s materials and technology. Just like its larger siblings, the Nordic Tug 26 features a solid fiberglass hull, with full-length keel and stainless-steel shoe and rudder.

TUG 26

P ott o crredit Phot e t for interior: C.I. Hood edit

Powered by a 110 hp Volvo D-3 diesel engine with electronic-controlled high pressure common rail fuel system, the Nordic Tug 26 today is as fuel efficient as its predecessor. Take a leisurely cruise and burn a meager 1.1 gph at 6.8 knots and 2.1 gph at 8 knots, or for quick weekend getaways, take her up to a top speed of 13.5 knots.

With room to sleep four, including a forward stateroom with a wet head plus a convertible salon settee, the Nordic Tug 26 is a great choice for couples and small families.

For pricing and build schedules, contact your local dealer. Dealers are listed on the Nordic Tugs website at nordictugs.com/ dealer.cfm. nordictugs.com

greatlakesboating.com | 45

NEW PRODUCTS

CUSTOM KNOBS FOR YOUR BOAT

Dichrome offers a complete line of custom glass knobs

The full assortment of patterns and designs can be

for watercraft. Available in a wide variety of colors and

viewed on the online catalogue.

styles, each knob is fashioned by artists from handblown glass. There are 16 different thread pitch options in standard and metric measurements.

Prices range from $40 to $200. Knobs are guaranteed to fit and come with a money-back guarantee. dichrome.com // (877) 937-4420

TAG HEUER SPEEDWAY EYEWEAR TAG Heuer Eyewear’s Speedway sunglasses feature a lightweight titanium alloy frame, shock-resistant polycarbonate lenses and super-adherent elastomere tips for a sure grip and long-wearing comfort. The lenses offer ophthalmic-quality and 100 percent UVA and UVB protection.

All TAG Heuer Eyewear lenses are shatter-resistant, ultra-light and provide 100 percent UVA and UVB protection. tagheuer.com/eyewear

3-D DOME REGISTRATION KITS Hardline Products® 3-D dome Decal

the decals to be applied with no bubbles

Number Kit™ gives a poured polyurethane

or wrinkles.

coating to registration numbers for a luxurious three-dimensional look.

The 3-D decals, which are saltwater safe and will not yellow, also resist dents,

The kit is specially designed for users

fading and scratches. The kit includes

to easily cover the factory matched™

138 decals, A-Z (minus Q and I), 0-9,

decals with a thick transparent, poured

doming cartridges, Sticker-On! and

polyurethane coating.

detailed do-it-yourself instructions. The

Easy step-by-step instructions guarantee crystal-clear dome effects for the decals.

design meets USCG guidelines when installed correctly.

The dome material goes on as a thick

Available in six different color

liquid coating that spreads only to the

combinations: blue/black, white/black,

edge of the marine-grade vinyl decal and

silver/black, red/black, solid black and

cures in 24 hours.

solid white.

Every kit includes Sticker-On!™ Decal Application fluid.

The kit retails for $64.99.

Sticker-On! is a high-performance adhesive that allows

46 GLB | May/June 09

hardlineproducts.com // (805) 581-4700

COBRA MARINE VHF RADIOS Cobra incorporates useful features

noise-canceling technology for

into its handheld and fixed mount

crystal clear communication.

VHF radios.

The company’s HH425 handheld

Its MR HH425 handheld model lets

VHF radio and F80 fi xed mount

users seamlessly switch between

radio feature exclusive Rewind-

VHF and GMRS bands with the push

Say-Again™ technology, a digital

of a button. The MR F300 BT is the

voice recorder that allows users

only waterproof handset on the

to replay the last 20 seconds

market featuring Bluetooth® wireless

of audio. All fi xed mount and

technology, allowing boaters to

handheld radios are equipped with

at $189.95 and the MR HH125 (seen in

transmit non-emergency cell phone

noise-canceling technology.

the photo) is $79.95.

calls loud and clear. This unit also employs Cobra-exclusive MicroBlue™

The MR HH45 retails for $169.95, the

www.cobra.com/marine // (773) 889-8870

MR F80 and the MR F300 are priced

PROACTIVE TOXIC GAS DETECTION system will alert crew and passengers

sensors come standard with the unit,

via audio and visual alarms before it

which are simple to install in various

reaches problematic levels.

areas of the boat. Up to 130 sensors

Its central processing unit (CPU) can

can be attached to the system.

audibly instruct crew with spoken

The EvrSafe LCD display provides a

commands to open specific hatches

view of the entire vessel’s layout. It

or vents to remove or disperse gases.

offers large easy-touch icons, access to

If contamination creates a dangerous

the operations manual, rolling displays,

situation, the CPU can also activate

color-coded alerts, emergency

EvrSafe Gas Detection System from

external equipment, such as fans,

checklists and sensor configurations.

Sea-Fire Marine accurately detects

pumps and generators, to bring air

and measures a variety of toxic

quality back to acceptable levels.

gases, including CO, nitrogen dioxide, hydrocarbons, LPG, butane and smoke.

If a hazardous gas is discovered, the

Customizable to any vessel, the EvrSafe system is easy to retrofit. Four

The EvrSafe Gas Detection System has suggested retail prices starting at around $995. sea-fire.com // (800) 445-7680

WIND INDICATOR Utilizing a sapphire jewel suspension

Highly visible, the Windex Vane has a

bearing, large fin/low inertia vane and

reflective underside for night viewing.

easy-to-read, fully-adjustable tacking

Simple to install, it includes a through-

tab system, the 15-inch Windex Vane

bolt or tap mounting socket, as well as

from Davis Instruments is ideal for

stainless steel studs, washers and nuts.

racing and cruising sailboats from 15

Extending above the vane, a bird-proof

feet to more than 100 feet.

spike keeps birds from landing.

This vane works in as little as 2/10 knot

The retail price of the 15-inch Windex

wind. It registers the smallest air puffs

Vane is $59.99. The Windex Series also

and is highly-responsive to breeze

includes models for whip antennas and

changes. Extensively tunnel tested at

small boats and dinghies.

wind speeds up to 80 knots, the sturdy vane will provide years of trouble-free

davisnet.com // (510) 732-9229

service when installed correctly.

greatlakesboating.com | 47

BOAT CARE & FEEDING

MYSTIK JT-4 SYNTHETIC 4-CYCLE OUTBOARD MARINE MOTOR OIL JT-4 Synthetic 4-Cycle Outboard Marine

corrosion protection, excellent low- and high-

Motor Oil SAE 10W-40 can tackle the

temperature performance, scuff/wear protection

harshest of marine environments with

and engine cleanliness.

its special synthetic additive system that

Recommended for use in four-cycle outboard

provides optimum high and low temperature

marine engine applications requiring an API SL,

protection. This balance of synthetic

JASO MA or NMMA FC-W quality oil, this oil is

components enhances fuel economy and

designed for use in Evinrude, Honda, Mercury

improves high temperature thermal and

Suzuki, Yamaha and other original equipment

oxidation stability.

manufacturers’ marine four-cycle engines. It is not for use in two-cycle engines.

The formulation contains premium synthetic base oils and a special additive system that

mystiklubes.com

is designed to provide superior rust and

CAMP DRY WATER REPELLENT AND FABRIC PROTECTOR Kiwi® Camp Dry® Heavy Duty Water Repellent provides superior water resistance on lether, suede, canvas and other heavy outdoor materials. Its formulation contains silicone for tough, long-lasting water protection while allowing materials to breathe. It is ideal for use on boots, tarps, boat covers and outdoor/camping gear.

Kiwi Camp Dry Performance Fabric Protector repels water, dirt and stains on many types of fabric including lightweight, light-colored synthetic, nylon and high-performance fabrics like Gore -Tex®. It has an advanced polymer, non-silicone formula that creates a surface barrier, dries quickly without darkening and discoloring materials and maintains the appearance and breathability of articles. It can be used on all fabrics and apparel such as coats, jackets, fleeces, hats, gloves, light-colored footwear and outdoor furniture.

Both products, which have a suggested retail price of $6.99, are safe to use outdoors. kiwicampdr y.com // (800) 392-7733

ETHANOL GASOLINE TREATMENT Verified by engine manufacturers and American Society

fuel treatments. In the ASTM Water Interface

for Testing and Materials (ASTM) tests, the new ValvTect

test, ValvTect’s additive was 50 percent more

Ethanol Gasoline Treatment is proven to stabilize

effective than enzyme-based additives, thereby

gasoline, prevent corrosion, control moisture to help

better reducing the chance of phase separation.

prevent phase separation, reduce octane loss and clean-

Additionally, ValvTect was substantially more

up carbon deposits.

effective at preventing rust and corrosion.

Ethanol gasoline destabilizes quickly and can prevent

ValvTect Ethanol Gasoline Treatment is available

starting, cause stalling and plug fuel filters. ValvTect

at West Marine stores and other marine supply

Ethanol Gasoline Treatment is test proven to stabilize

dealers in a 12-ounce bottle that treats 120

fuel for up to one year. Under ASTM test procedures, it

gallons of fuel.

improved fuel stability 130 percent more than enzyme

48 GLB | May/June 09

valvtect.com // (800) 728-8258

WIND-POWERED VENT INCREASES UNDER COVER AIR FLOW Dr. Shrink has introduced its new and inexpensive DS-683WP Wind-Powered Vent.

With efficient blades and anemometer cups, this vent moves air under the shrinkwrap cover with even the lightest of breezes and can circulate air 24 hours a day at no cost. The cups can be rotated to either deliver air or remove it, maximizing air flow under the wrap and eliminating moisture buildup.

Easy to install, the base of the vent is self-adhesive. With more than 15 square inches of sticking power, each DS-683WP will remain in place. They can be purchased with or without screens in the base.

Available in white or blue, the DS-683WP Wind-Powered Vent has a retail price of $4.25. dr-shrink.com // (800) 968-5147

SCRATCH SOLUTION Quixx High Performance Paint Scratch Remover is a simple two-step repair system that works easily to permanently remove scratches from painted surfaces. In the first step, a patented compound works with the paint material surrounding the scratch to permanently remove the scratch from the surface. The second step restores the finish to its original shine.

It is available at retailers nationwide for $19.95.

Quixx High Performance Acrylic Scratch Remover quickly and easily removes scuffs, scrapes and scratches from acrylic glass and Plexiglas® surfaces including car headlights, dashboard, wood trim, motorcycle windshields, RV or boat windows and other acrylic household items. It is available for $14.95 at retailers nationwide.

Both products are also environmentally friendly. They do not use volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contain high vapor pressures that are harmful to the environment. quix x.com // (305) 261.6755, ext 203

INFLATABLE BOAT CLEANER Meguiar’s® Inflatable Boat Cleaner™ removes oil, grease and ocean grime from your inflatable boat without damaging its surface.

Meguiar’s environmentally safe and biodegradable formula removes dirt, bird droppings, oil and other stains to restore your boat to like-new condition. It is perfect for rigid inflatable boats (RIB), non-rigid inflatable boats and even kayaks. Simply spray product directly on the surface and allow it to work into the soiled area for 15 to 20 seconds. Wipe dry with a 100 percent cotton terry cloth towel and the surface will look brighter, cleaner and feel as good as new.

A 16-fluid-ounce spray bottle of Inflatable Boat Cleaner retails for $14.99. meguiarsdirect.com // (800) 347-5700

greatlakesboating.com | 49

BOATKEEPER

IMPROVE

FUEL

EFFICIENCY Today’s higher prices for diesel and gasoline make squeezing the most out of every drop of fuel more important than ever. Besides the money-saving factor, you’ll want to ensure that you have maximum range capability each time you fill up your tank. So what steps can you take to optimize the fuel efficiency of your boat and motor? Here are some useful tips: 1

Run Mean & Lean

3

Put Technology on Your Side

Lighten the load whenever possible by taking along only

A quality onboard fuel computer will help you ef ficiently

essential gear and supplies. If you’re going on a one-day

manage what you have in your tank by supplying accurate,

of fshore trip, don’t pack enough gear and supplies onboard

real-time readings of how much fuel you are using at any

for a six-day cruise. By limiting the amount of rods and

given moment. This is a highly desirable alternative to the

reels, tackle boxes, ice chests and the like, you’ll reduce

notoriously inaccurate fuel gauges that come standard on

the weight and drag of your vessel significantly. Not only

many boat models.

will you burn less fuel, you should experience notable improvements in handling and performance as well.

4 2

Distribute Weight Evenly

Tune Her Up Regular engine maintenance and tune-ups will contribute greatly to your boat’s overall fuel ef ficiency. If your motor

In addition to reducing the weight of your craf t by

is not operating the way it should, chances are the system

eliminating unnecessary equipment and excess “baggage,”

will be working overtime and consuming more fuel. Have

distributing onboard gear evenly will also help you get

a professional marine technician overhaul your engine

more out of every gallon. If your boat is listing to one side

at least once a year. Also make sure you are running

or the bow is weighted down due to improper placement

your boat within the rpm range recommended by the

of onboard gear, your fuel ef ficiency will suf fer. Instead,

manufacturer for optimum fuel ef ficiency. In addition to

make certain that all onboard equipment and accessories

proper engine maintenance, check other components of

are properly distributed and balanced. This will help ensure

your craf t’s propulsion system, such as the propeller, for

both a smoother ride and increased mileage.

fuel-robbing defects. An improperly sized or bent prop can also contribute to fuel inef ficiency.

50 GLB | May/June 09

5

Time For a Trim

7

Drain That Water

Installing a quality trim-tab system on your boat will

The water in your boat’s bait tank and live wells can add

not only improve the ride of your boat, it will help you

a surprising amount of weight to your vessel. Instead

go farther on a tank of fuel. Trim tabs allow you to

of heading home at the end of the day lugging along

make necessary adjustments to the way your boat cuts

all this ex tra weight, empty your tanks of unnecessary

through the water, planes and handles. By adjusting

water (and bait) before making that long run back to the

your trim according to boat speed/load and the current

docks. You’ll lighten your overall load significantly and

water conditions, you will help optimize performance

get better mileage.

and save fuel.

6

Ar ticle provided by BoatersWorld.com Photo cour tesy of Livorsi Marine

Don’t Carry Along Unwelcome Guests The hulls of boats kept in the water of ten have many “cling-ons,� which resemble coral jungles. If you are carrying a small ecosystem of algae, barnacles or other marine grow th on your hull, you will definitely experience fuel-consuming drag when under way.

Regular inspections of your boat’s underside, along with the use of anti-fouling paint and anti-fouling cleaners,

To advertise in

Great Lakes Boating contact ads@greatlakesboating.com

will help prevent unwelcome guests from hitching a ride.

Making Waves Jeerson Beach Marina‌Anchor of the Nautical Mile A Destination Within A Destination Come ashore and ride the shuttle or walk to the St.Clair Shores Nautical Mile, where you can experience local shopping, dining, special events and attractions.

Lat: 42° 28.05’ Long: 82° 52.52’

Jefferson Beach Marina is a full service marina with fuel dock, service center, wireless internet, shower facilities, on-site restaurant and much more +FòFSTPO "WF 4U $MBJS 4IPSFT .* t 1I t +FòFSTPO#FBDI.BSJOB DPN

greatlakesboating.com | 51

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

Bo

YOUR ADVOCATE IN • GOVERNMENT • MARKETPLACE

at

• Legislative action alerts

Great Lakes Boating Federation membership is free if you are already a subscriber to Great Lakes Boating.

• $10 MEMBERSHIP For $10, receive full member benelts without a magazine subscription.

• Discounts on insurance, lnance and other products and services • Help with buying and selling boats

i n g Fe

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• Access to full community website • Advocacy voice for boaters

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JOIN AND REAP THE BENEFITS

greatlakesboatingfederation.org For questions or comments, CONTACT:

kmalonis@greatlakesboatingfederation.org 312.266.8408

A deadly fish disease is on the move...

HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF VHS Viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) is a serious disease of fresh and saltwater fish recently found in the Great Lakes region of the United States and Canada.

VHS spreads when infected fish and water are moved into unexposed lakes and rivers.

You Can Help Stop the Spread • Thoroughly clean and dry fishing equipment, bait buckets, boats, and trailers before using them again.

• Empty all water from equipment before transporting.

• Remove all mud, plants, and aquatic life from equipment.

• Do not move fish or plants from one body of water to another.

• Do not introduce fish of an unknown health status into populations of farmed fish.

New Web Site!

Learn more about VHS and what you can do to help: www.FocusOnFishHealth.org United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

MARINE MART

POWERBOATS

2002 Mainship Pilot 30: Hardtop

1986 Chris Craft 336 Commander:

presently located in Pine Island,

Needs TLC. Port side V-drive and

20’ Sea Ray w/Cuddy: Skis, LJS,

Florida. 240 hp Yanmar, electric stove,

engine need work. A/C-heat needs

extras. 4.5L 185 Merc I/O, new batteris.

Nova cool fridge and only 197 hours

work. (773) 454-2027. $10,000.

EZ Loader trlr w/new electric brakes.

since new. (866) 941-5884. $85,000.

Kalamazoo, MI. (269) 375-0802 or

(see photo below)

(269) 365-2614.

1987 10.8 Meter Trojan International: Twin 350 Crusaders, good shape, outriggers, new interior carpet. Lots of

1995 Sea Ray Sundancer 250: Very

extras. Motivated seller. Sandusky, OH.

good condition, 5.7L Merc Bravo II,

Contact mysticflight@windstream.net

camper, head, color chartplotter, Eagle

or (330) 995-6088.

custom trailer. (231) 758-4186. $22,900.

1973 36’ Uniflite: Double cabin,

1986 Tiara 2700 Continental: Twin

twin 440 Chryslers, generator, air

260 hp, 265 hours, generator, AC/heat,

conditioning, two heads.

trailer, newer canvas, Humminbird GPS system, Interlux 2000 barrier coat, VC17. (414) 651-3100. $18,900.

1984 272 Formula: Black/silver, new 10,000 lbs. Trailer, new interior, twin 5.7 Mercs. Boat shows like new. New cockpit cover, low hours, extra drive.

(231) 750-4734. $14,895.

1994 Tiara 29’ Open: Excellent condition. Twin Crusader 350s.

Raytheon electronics (radar, autopilot, VHF/hailer, video echo sounder.) New canvas. Electric planner board reels, rod holders, much more.

2002 Sea Ray 320 Sundancer: Like new. Twin 350 MPI Horizons/v-drives.

1960 40’ Chris Craft Sea Skiff: Twin

Low hours. New canvas ’08. Radar/

Lincoln engines. Lots of teak. Sleeps 6.

GPS/heat-ac. (414) 573-9500. $119k.

Full galley. Always stored inside during

1989 32’ Wellcraft St. Tropez: 450 hrs., 454s, generator, air/heat, chartplotter,

1995 Tiara 40 Mid-Cabin Express: Cummins 420s, 400 hrs., 9kW Onan,

yahoo.com. Reduced $33,900.

extended swim platform, cockpit air,

1989 Cruisers 3270 Express Cruiser: Twin Crusaders 350, galley, head,

ash interior, fully equipped.

(313) 949-4392. $239,000 or offer.

chartplotter, side imaging sonar, low

2000 Carver 404: Stellar condition with

hrs.— 450, fresh water only.

all options. Stored indoors winters and

(312) 371-3381. $29,000.

needs nothing. Full canvas and ready

1985 Trojan International 10 meter:

(see photo below)

Twin 454 Crusaders, factory options, radar, fully self-contain, windlass, electronics, sleeps six, air-heat, full camper top, closed water system, exc. condition. (517) 423-7836.

2002 Larson 330 Cabriolet: Twin economical 5.7L Volvo duo-props.

2005 Sea Ray Amberjack 290: Like

Stored heated indoors winters since

new, fresh water only and stored inside

new. Near new condition. Bayfield, WI,

on a rack. T-350 Magnum Horizon

edgo@centurtel.net or (715) 779-3153.

V-drives, Ray Marine 435i GPS, chart-

$64,950.

54 GLB | May/June 09

Phone (815) 223-7878. Asking $25,000.

paint. Call (734) 284-5186, lahey08@

(586) 725-5911. $79,900 OBO.

use. (716) 754-1183. Asking $135,000.

winter. Well maintained. Bid aft deck.

windlass, driplass, 4-blade nibral, VC

See www.LokeLures.com homepage.

plotter and more. Less than 30 hrs. of

Call (440) 759-8145. $29,000 OBO.

to entertain.

(866) 941-5884. $169,000. (see photo below)

2001 42 Regal Commodore 4160: 300 hrs., Volvo diesels. Large galley, two staterooms, two heads. Full Raymarine, color plotter, radar. Zodiac on roller bunk. Perfect condition.

1

2

Contacct Rick at (231) 941-1284.

IOWA

MINNESOTA

MAY 15-17 “That Was Then, This Is Now” Boat Show Mississippi Riverfront Park Muscatine

MAY 16 Solar Boat Regatta Beach at Phalen Park St. Paul

3

4

muscatineboatshow.com

2001 420 Sea Ray Aft Cabin: Volvo diesels, fast and economical. 3

MARYLAND

staterooms, 2 full heads, all the

Fresh water only, stored inside when

MAY 23-24 Annapolis Nautical Flea Market 500 Farragut Road Annapolis

not in use. Full camper top w/bimni

usboat.com

options. Great 2 couple/family cruiser.

(716) 864-1755.

6

1996 42 Fountain Lightning:

7

and 3 boat covers. Triple HP500s.

Very Clean! Email bfischer@ hiltonstorage.com for info. (see photo below)

8

9

MAY 29-31 The Yacht Show at National Harbor 137 National Plaza National Harbor

13

usboat.com

14

MICHIGAN

22

23

2004 459 Meridian Cockpit Motor Yacht: Spacious, luxurious, quiet,

MAY 29 Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Chinook Pier Grand Haven

24

25

grandhavenoffshorechallenge.com

powerful, fast, Safe! Sleeps 6. Perfect for cruising/entertaining. D.O.C. makes docking EASY! LOADED! Tender/15 hp OB, SatTV, Inverter. T370HP diesels.

Call (770) 992-1416.

29

(see photo below)

30

JUNE 19-21 Bay Harbor In-Water Boat Show Bay Harbor Lake Marina Bay Harbor

31

bayharbor.com JANUARY

JUNE 26-28 24th Annual Boat Show “Where It All Began” Algonac Harbor Club Algonac

4

5

antiqueboat.com

6

7

JULY 10-11 Boyne Thunder Poker Run Boyne City Marina Boyne City

6

5

solarboatrace.net

7

JUNE 14 Parade of Boats Centennial Lakes Park Edina

edinamodelyachtclub.org

NEW YORK 13 10

MAY 23 Snake River Wooden Boat Show Wilson Bridge boat access Wilson

14

woodenboatpeople.com/events

19

20

JUNE 12-14 Lake George Donzi Classic Club Spring Dustoff Various locations Lake George

21

lgdonziclassic.com

JUNE 20-21 Clearwater Festival & Great Hudson River Revival Croton Point Park Westchester County

27

28

JUNE 25-28 Trawler Fest Mitchell Park and Marina Greenport

3

26

clearwater.org

1

2

passagemaker.com

OHIO JUNE 13-14 North Coast Harbor Boating & Fishing Fest North Coast Harbor, Voinovich Park Cleveland

8

9

10

16

17

boatingfest.com

boynethunder.com

11

12

13

14

15

greatlakesboating.com | 55

EVENTS CALENDAR

S

JUNE 18-21 Windsor/MacRay Getaways Mentor & Port Clinton marinemax.com

S

(440) 974-9231 (419) 797-4492

JUNE 20 Caesar Creek Lake Fest and Outdoor Expo Caesar Creek State Park Waynesville

M

M

sailcincinnati.com

JUNE 20-28 Cleveland Race Week Edgewater Yacht Club Cleveland

T

ewyc.org

JUNE 27 Summer Splash Walborn Reservoir Alliance

WISCONSIN

S

MAY 15-17 Midwestern Model Ships and Boats Contest and Display Wisconsin Maritime Museum Manitowoc wisconsinmaritime.org

M

JUNE 19-21 LMYA Wisconsin Region Rendezvous Harbor Centre Marina Sheboygan lmya.net

T

CANADA

T

MAY 23 Don’t Rock the Boat Collins Bay Marina Kingston, Ontario

W

PENNSYLVANIA

W

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK MAY 16-22

MAY 29-30 Council of American Maritime Museums Conference Erie Maritime Museum Erie

T

T

councilofamericanmaritimemuseums.org

F

Advertiser Index

Atlantic-Meeco

21

Bay Breeze Yacht Sales

43

Boat U.S.

03

Chicago Park District

24

Dept. of Agriculture

53

Essex Credit

BC

Foremost Insurance

IFC

GLBF

52

Golden Giant

13

Jefferson Beach

51

Meridian Yachts

25

North Point Marina

01

Quebec City Marina

02

Seng’s Marina

29

Taste of Great Lakes

37

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council

35

Totally Clean Marine

33

Trawlers Midwest

29

VisitRochester

05

Collinsbaymarina.com

stateparks.com

W

GLB Magazine

FREE ADS

F

T F

GOT A BOAT TO SELL?

Waukegan Harbor

IBC

Complimentary 25 word classifi ed boat advertisements in the July/August issue.

(NO STRINGS ATTACHED!)

Email your text-only advertisement to

classifieds@greatlakesboating.com.

S

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Free classified boat advertisement offer limited to one boat advertisement per reader.

TO ADVERTISE IN GLB please email:

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All classifi ed ads are subject to publisher’s approval. Space is limited. Free ads will be accepted on a fi rst come-fi rst served basis. Advertisements for the July/August 2009 issue must be received by June 1, 2009.

56 GLB | May/June 09

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