September/October_2012

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Just as outboards have changed, the reality is that they don’t last forever and need to be maintained. Hence, the next story in this issue talks about what’s needed to keep you on the “green

WHERE BOATERS GO FOR NEWS

boating” track.

While everyone views their boats as September/October marks the changing of the seasons. We’re moving from the warm sunny days of summer into the cooler days of fall. Just as the seasons change, so too do the topics

prized possessions, they are also pieces of equipment that can be

Managing Editor Karen Malonis

scratched and dented, and their

Associate Editor Jerome A. Koncel

motors need to maintenance just like our automobiles do.

we cover in the magazine. This issue

And as we’re looking to not only store

is a good example of articles written

and service boats, we offer an article

not only for your reading pleasure, but

on automatic identification systems

also in tune with the different times of

(AIS), one of the hottest pieces of

the year.

marine electronics equipment

Our cover story this month spotlights three “Gold Medal Yachts” from Viking Yachts. Following up on the Olympics, we present pictures and writeups on three of Viking’s newest additions.

While they recall the successful boats of years past, they also remind us that

is currently not widespread among the boating community, it will be soon and choosing an AIS for your boat is quite complex. That’s why we’re offering a two-part series on the basics of AIS and its practical applications.

Another article worth your reading

they’re always changing with the times

discusses the inevitable—winter.

to establish new standards.

Storage options abound for boaters

place, bur rather more than 1,500 islands that dot the border between New York and Ontario. The 1,000 Islands is an idyllic setting, a boater’s paradise as residents spend more time on their boats than in their cars.

looking to put away their boats, but it’s a question of convenience and costs.

Our winter storage article beginning on page 26 examines one storage option that until recently was considered too expensive for most boaters—indoor heated storage.

Boating in these islands is not only the

So, enjoy reading this issue and

favored mode of transportation, but it

remember to do two additional things.

also evokes a time long ago when life

First, visit our newly redesigned Web

was simpler and seemingly happier.

site, www.GreatLakesBoating.com,

Stress and anxiety were confined to

where you’ll find a digital subscription

navigating the river and not reading

and a soon-to-be mobile app for your

emails, texting on smartphones, and

smartphone. Like Viking Yachts, we’re

closing business deals.

constantly changing to meet your

If 1,000 Islands reminds of a time long

needs and forms of communication.

ago, then our story on outboards brings

The second is to join the Great Lakes

us back to the present.

Boating Federation (GLBF), the only

In response to boaters’ demands and government pressure, outboard engine manufacturers have made significant changes to their products resulting in improved fuel effi ciency, reduced harmful emissions and more reliable and enjoyable boating experiences.

Check out our story on page 16 that describes how outboards have evolved over the last 10 to 12 years.

04 GLB | Sept/Oct 12

Contributing Writers Mike Baron Wyatt Hanks Graphic Design Mila Ryk Andrea Vasata

available to boaters. Although AIS

boatbuilders never rest on their laurels,

Our port of call is not one specifi c

Publisher & Editor in Chief F. Ned Dikmen

true advocate for Great Lakes boaters.

For only $10/year, you’ll be working with the only real watchdog for Great Lakes boaters and will avail yourself to some of the highest quality marine products at some of the lowest prices in the region. GLBF is the only voice for the 4.2 million boaters in the Great Lakes. There is no other!

Advertising | Sales Inquiries Neil Dikmen 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) © 2012 is a registered trademark (73519-331) of Chicago Boating Publications, Inc., its publisher 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

For editorial inquiries, contact Great Lakes Boating Magazine at 1032 N. LaSalle, Chicago, IL 60610. p 312.266.8400 or e kmalonis@greatlakesboating.com Great Lakes Boating Magazine is available online at greatlakesboating.com and at any of the distribution centers and newsstands in areas surrounding the Great Lakes. Postmaster should forward all undelivered issues to Great Lakes Boating Magazine, 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

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

Great Lakes Boating Magazine does not assume 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.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

16 OTC

VIKING YACHTS 66 ENCLOSED BRIDGE CONVERTIBLE

FEATURES

FEATURES • VIKING YACHTS • OUTBOARDS EVOLVE • 1,000 ISLANDS • WINTER STORAGE

22

20 32 34

32

5’5” 2,015 gal.

340 gal.

Viking’s 66 Enclosed Bridge Convertible is an amalgamation that combines the hull of a sportishing convertible with a totally enclosed climate-controlled helm station. Many of the features found aboard the 66 Open Bridge Convertible are present in the 66 Enclosed Bridge, including four staterooms, each with a head and shower, a 174 square-foot cockpit with an observation mezzanine, and private crew quarters access.

Inside the enclosed bridge, an L-shaped lounge on a raised platform above the carpeted sole enhances visibility when sitting. This functional and inviting space includes a refrigerator with an icemaker and an entertainment system with a 19inch flat screen television.

The main helm station has a raised dash that houses navigation and communication electronics. Single-lever electronic engine controls with trolling valves and the VIPER (Viking Independent Programmable Electro-hydraulic Rudder) steering deliver exceptional handling.

DEPARTMENTS DEPARTMENTS

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

19’1”

DRAFT:

WATER:

SPOTLIGHTS SPOTLIGHTS

34

66’7”

FUEL CAPACITY:

10 16 22 28

• GREEN BOATING • DON’T GO OVERBOARD • UNDERSTAND AIS

LOA : BEAM:

36 40 42 44 46

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

04 08 48 50 52 52 53

Design options include a customized Sky Bridge that fits atop the enclosed bridge roof. It features a center console helm with electronic stowage, along with port and starboard lounge seating. The vessel can also be outfitted with a tuna tower.

Viking Yachts Route 9 New Gretna, NJ 08224 609-296-6000 vikingyachts.com

06 GLB | Sept/Oct 12

JOIN

GREAT LAKES BOATING FEDERATION TO PRESERVE AND PROTECT BOATING To get your voice heard amidst the din and clatter of a dysfunctional government, boaters on the Great Lakes should join the Great Lakes Boating Federation (GLBF).

Here’s a checklist of reasons on why you should join GLBF:

• There is only one recognized leader when it comes to advancing the rights, needs and interests of recreational boaters and sportsfishermen.

• In the face of harsh and undue regulations on the federal, state, and local levels, GLBF is the face of Great Lakes boaters.

• GLBF has been at the forefront of organizations calling for the reauthorization of the Coastal Zone Management Act so that fishermen and boaters can gain more access to the waters.

• GLBF stopped the Coast Guard’s proposed live fi re zones on the Great Lakes.

When others did nothing to stop this dangerous activity, GLBF stepped up to stop it from happening.

• It has worked tirelessly to improve the dredging of small harbors and gain greater access to boat ramps at all harbors.

• It has sought to increase maintenance of navigational aids and breakwaters.

• It has sought to improve the fish populations of freshwater lakes and inland waterways.

• It has sought to prevent Asian carp and other invasive species from spreading into the Great Lakes.

• It has been the most vocal advocate for recreational boaters in securing the fair use of fees and taxes levied on boaters.

GLBF is the voice for the 4.3 million boaters on the Great Lakes. It is the organization that boaters depend on in advocating and defending the rights of Great Lakes boaters.

For more information or to join the Great Lakes Boating Federation,

www.greatlakesboatingfederation.com, email: glbf@greatlakesboatingfederation.com visit

or call 312-266-8408.

EDITORIALS

Time for a Safety Reminder “Boating mishap leaves one dead, two injured” “Boating accident kills 10 year old” “Three die in holiday boating accident” These headlines are real and remind us about the tragic consequencs of boating accidents. It seems to us that each week of the boating season has been fi lled with some type of boating accident that wrenched our hearts. Maybe it’s just

For those of us who enjoy boating, have been boating for years, if not decades, and believe that safe boating is not happenstance, the coming winter offers an opportunity to attend safe boating education classes. Refresh your mind, renew your boating skills and make every time on the water a safe and enjoyable time.

that we’re hearing more about boating fatalities and injuries,

Boaters will often say there are no classes available in their

but it seems the number of people injured or even killed in

areas. Well, that seems to be an excuse that doesn’t hold

boating accidents increased significantly this summer, and

water. The U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

we don’t know why.

(USCGA), U.S. Power Squadrons and other organizations

As we near the end of our boating season on the Great Lakes and inland waterways, we believe this is an appropriate time to remind everyone that boating is meant to be a

all offer safe boating classes across the Great Lakes. The classes are either free or require a minimum charge, so price isn’t an excuse for not attending.

safe, enjoyable sport. But this will only occur if we follow

In addition to teaching the classes, the USCGA and

and employ safe boating procedures. Th is is particularly true

others offer free vessel safety checks (VSC). Lasting 15 to

when it comes to boating and drinking, which the USCG and

30 minutes depending on the size of the boat, the vessel

other agencies have identified as a major culprit in serious

examiner tells the owner whether the boat is in compliance

boating accidents.

with all state and federal boating laws.

As we head for winter hibernation, let’s all take a minute

What happens if the boat doesn’t pass? Don’t worry, you

and refresh ourselves about safe and responsible boating

won’t get fi ned. The VSC examiner will provide you with a

practices. The National Safe Boating Council encourages all

written report of any discrepancies and how to correct them.

recreational boaters to wear their life jackets and follow these five safety tips:

Local police and sheriff departments, as well as state agencies, such as the Dept. of Natural Resources or Div.

• No matter whether you’re fi shing, sailing, or boating,

of Fish and Wildlife Services, offer boater safety courses.

remember to wear a life jacket every time you’re on

Some states, such as Ohio and Michigan, require boaters to

the water.

complete a NASBLA-approved course before operating a

• Make sure your life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard approved and appropriate for your boating activity.

• Time the time to ensure a proper fit.

• If you are boating with children, make sure the life jackets they’re wearing fit properly.

• Children under the age of 13 must wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket unless they are below

boat. Others mandate attendance at boating safety classes if they are under a certain age.

No matter how young or old you are, boating safety is important, So, take time out this off-season to attend a boating safety class and refresh yourself about safe boating practices. The peace of mind you’ll get from being prepared to meet any emergency situation is well worth the time and effort. And remember, safe boating isn’t an accident!

decks or in an enclosed cabin.

Agree? Disagree? Want to Comment?

Email your thoughts to letters@greatlakesboating.com

08 GLB | Sept/Oct 12

Boating Is for Everyone The November elections for president, vice-president,

of all boaters are also fi shermen. Less than 10 percent of all

senator, representative, state and local officials are drawing

boats can accurately be described as yachts or mega-yachts,

near, and we urge all our readers as part of their civic duty to

yet this is not the picture politicians and others put forth

vote. Th is may prove difficult based on the prolific number

when they talk about “boating” and “boaters.”

of ads and telephone calls coming from the candidates, but we shouldn’t let this stop us from voting.

Somewhere along the line, boaters have failed to tell the public that boating is for everyone. Somewhere in

While reflecting on the elections, the thought kept coming

time, boaters have not made it clear that they are the

up that these elections are tearing us apart instead of uniting

environmentalists and not the polluters. Ask boaters if they’d

us. There’s no ideal candidate, no one person that we would

like to go boating in murky, polluted waters? Ask anglers if

follow because he/she espouses all our views and beliefs, and

they’d like to go fi shing in dirty, smelly waters? They don’t

the issues that divide us don’t hold a middle ground. Then

and that’s why they keep the waters clean and pristine.

it came to mind that boating is a subject everyone likes to talk about, and it is certainly a subject that unites rather than divides. Boating is for everyone and here’s why.

You don’t have to identify yourself as a Republican, Democrat or Independent if you want to go boating. You don’t have to tell people where you live, how much you make, or what’s

The boating lifestyle doesn’t require you to announce your

your cultural lineage to go boating. And you certainly don’t

party affi liation, and it certainly doesn’t take cognizance of

need to be a high school graduate or rocket scientist to go

your race or religion. Boating doesn’t ask people to declare

boating. No, the single most important thing to remember is

their gender or political affi liation. None of those so-called

that boating is for everyone.

important factors that defi ne who you are matter when it comes to boating.

And why not tell your relatives, friends and neighbors about the wonders of boating. Not only will they enjoy

Boaters are diverse. You can be a Turkish immigrant who

the exhilaration of being on the water, they can do so at an

came to the states to avoid religious persecution, the world’s

affordable price. Alert your friends and neighbors that they

most famous golfer, or an electrician who’s spent more time

won’t have to spend hundreds of thousands or millions of

on the unemployment lines than working in the past 24

dollars to enjoy boating. For the price of a mid-sized sedan

months, and all have one thing in common—a desire to enjoy

or certainly an SUV, people can buy a brand new boat. In

the world of water on a boat. No matter if it’s a pontoon boat,

fact, that’s really the point. Boating is for everyone because

a 130-foot megayacht, or a 22-foot cruiser, these are all boats

it’s readily available and imminently affordable.

and the people that bring them to the water to enjoy our beautiful natural resources are all called boaters.

Upon further reflection, boating and boaters are gett ing a

THE VOICE MILLION BOATERS E VOIC C E off 44.3 .33 M MIL ILLI IL L LI L I ON O BOA

bad rap these days because some politicians accuse boaters of being fat cats with multi-million dollar yachts that pollute the environment, when the reality is just the opposite. Most boaters trailer their 18-foot boats to the Great Lakes, inland rivers and waterways to go fishing. In fact, three-quarters

www.greatlakesboatingfederation.org .greatl g l akes ak kes esb b o at bo ati t in i n gf g f ederat gfe ed

greatlakesboating.com | 09

10 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

66 ENCLOSED BRIDGE CONVERTIBLE LOA Beam Draft Fuel Capacity Water

66’7” 19’1”

5’5” 2,015 gal.

340 gal.

The 66 Enclosed Bridge Convertible combines the hull of a

features include overhead recessed LED lighting, a central

sportfishing convertible with an enclosed climate-controlled

vacuum system, windshield wipers with washers, windshield

helm station that’s accessible from the salon.

defoggers and substantial stowage compartments.

Inside the bridge are a cocktail table and an L-shaped

A lockable door provides access to the aft deck, where a

lounge on a raised platform. Additional amenities include

second pod-style helm is located.

an icemaker and an entertainment system with a 19-inch flat screen TV.

Design options include a customized Sky Bridge that fits atop the enclosed bridge roof. It features a center console helm

The main helm station has a vertically mounted steering

with electronic stowage, along with port and starboard lounge

wheel behind a raised dash that houses navigation and

seating. The vessel can also be outfi tted with a tuna tower.

communication electronics. Single-lever electronic engine controls with trolling valves and the VIPER (Viking Independent Programmable Electro-hydraulic Rudder) steering deliver exceptional handling. Above the windshield is a bank of accessory switches, while a touch screen control panel monitors all of the ship’s systems. Additional

The EB 66 can reverse directions in two boat lengths and comes with MTU V16 Series 2000 M 91 engines that cruise in the mid-30 knot range, topping out at 40 knots.

vikingyachts.com

12 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

42 CONVERTIBLE LOA Beam Draft Fuel Capacity Water

42’7” 15’10”

3’7” 525 gal.

120 gal.

The forward thinking philosophy that drives Viking Yachts

The builder has effectively used every available inch in

provides a commitment to future models. Two models whose

the deckhouse to include a sofa, dinette and galley with

time has arrived are the Viking 42 Convertible and the Viking

under counter refrigeration, good storage and substantial

42 Open. These new Vikings share the same hull and LOA,

counter space.

but they are as distinct as day and night.

The cockpit sports Viking’s signature observation mezzanine,

The 42 Convertible is a well-proportioned vessel with fixed

a salon step box cooler, a transom box, a transom door and

salon windows that have been darkly tinted to blend with the

gate, and plenty of fishing room, while the flying bridge has all

metallic black mask. There’s nearly 16 feet of beam to allow

the amenities found on its larger siblings, including a center

a choice of two or three staterooms. The master stateroom

console helm with outstanding visibility, good electronic

has a full-size island bed and access to a private head with

stowage and ample seating.

a sizeable fiberglass shower stall. The second head, also equipped with a shower, serves the remaining staterooms and is located off the companionway.

Cummins QSB 600 mhp diesels and Zeus pod drives power the Viking 42 Convertible.

vikingyachts.com greatlakesboating.com | 13

42 OPEN LOA Beam Draft Fuel Capacity Water

42’7” 15’10”

3’7” 525 gal.

120 gal.

Utilizing a hull form identical to the 42 Convertible, the Viking

beneath the command bridge, boost the sleeping capacity

42 Open is the ideal day boat with appealing good looks. The

to six.

standard layout features a forward stateroom with an island berth, twin berths beneath the command deck, a full head and shower, a compact galley to starboard and a dinette to port.

The command bridge has pedestal helm seats, along with plenty of lounge seating and ample creature comforts. As with the 42 Convertible, the 42 Open’s cockpit features an

Also available is an alternative layout with accommodations

observation mezzanine, plus room for a fishing chair on the

for four in two private staterooms along with two heads, each

lower level, along with tackle and gear stowage and recessed

with a fiberglass shower stall. The berths, which are tucked in

in-deck fish wells.

vikingyachts.com

OUTBOARDS

&

more efficient

reliable

By Jerome A. Koncel

A

sk yourself these questions: Would I be spending more time on the water if my outboard engine was more fuel effi cient? Are engine manufacturers doing anything to

help me cope with soaring gas prices? The answer to the first question is unknown, but there’s no question that outboard engine manufacturers have made significant improvements in their engines over the last decade to get more boaters out on the waters.

FUEL

EFFICIENCY AND EMISSIONS In discussing fuel efficiency, Sandstrom gives a thumbs up to the outboard engine industry for its efforts. “Let’s first point out that every engine being produced today is far superior

Increased fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and better

to those of 10 to 12 years ago,

reliability are three of the major improvements made in

particularly in terms of reduced

outboard engines in the last decade. But this only prompts

emissions and fuel effi ciency,” Sandstrom said.

boaters to ask: What have you done for me lately? Boating consumers want greater reliability, more durability, and a quieter, smoother ride for their day on the water. Are outboard engine manufacturers doing more to meet these needs?

To answer this question, gain a better understanding of how outboard engines have evolved over the years, and gain a glimpse at what the future of outboard engines might look like, Great Lakes Boating interviewed Karl Sandstrom, a 30-year veteran of the marine outboard industry, and other outboard manufacturers. Sandstrom provided some history into the signifi cant changes in outboards within the past 10 years, described the current state of outboard engine manufacturing and offered some insight into what the future may hold for boaters and their outboard engines.

16 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

Having said that, he acknowledges that while the industry talks about increasing fuel efficiency, there’s no industry standard. The major obstacle seems to be a lack of consensus on how to define the standard.

While industry standards for fuel efficiency don’t exist, it doesn’t mean builders are not concerned with it. On the contrary, all the major outboard engine manufacturers contacted for this article, including Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda Marine, Mercury Marine, Evindrude and others, all take fuel effi ciency very seriously. “It ranks third behind reliability and brand recognition in the reasons why boaters purchase outboard engines,” said Dean Burnett, vice president, Yamaha Motor Group, Kennesaw, Ga.

So what are manufacturers doing to show their serious

fl y-by-wire throttle control and shift assembly that provides

concern over fuel efficiency? The answer varies depending

operating data to the onboard computer, allowing for precise

on the manufacturer. The first thing to note, however, is that

control of fuel and airflow.

overall reliability has never been higher for outboard engines

Steve Drenkard, marketing manager, Honda Marine,

Following the introduction of electronic fuel injection in the

Alpharetta, Ga., says the company incorporates technology

first part of this decade, as well as vast improvements in the

developed for its motorcycles and automobiles into its

reliability of four-stroke engines, today’s outboard engine

outboard engines. This includes programmed fuel injection

manufacturers are focusing their efforts on monitoring

(PGM-FI), BLAST, which it describes as a technology that

how the engine operates and making real-time changes

boosts low speed torque on outboard engines, and variable

to optimize the engine’s operation and efficiency.

valve timing and lift electronic control.

Evinrude says that it uses “stratified combustion” in its E-TEC

Drenkard said this latter technology has enabled Honda to

engines to deliver 2 to 3 times the fuel efficiency at low RPMs.

optimize the air-to-fuel ratio in its outboard engines. He said

Stratifi ed combustion contains the combustible fuel cloud

that when the boat reaches its cruising speed, the onboard

within a small area of the cylinder, with the remainder of the

computer senses this and moves the air-to-fuel ratio to 18-1

air not being fueled. This increases fuel efficiency.

from a standard 14-1. The tendency here is for the higher fuel

Steve Miller, senior product category manager for Mercury Marine in Fond du Lac, Wis., said that when Mercury Marine introduced the Optimax direct fuel injection (DFI) 2-stroke engines in the 1990s, they were 70 to 80 percent more fuel

ratio to make the engine burn hotter, but Honda says it deals with this problem by incorporating its automotive technology to the marine platform to reduce heat, while maintaining fuel efficiency.

efficient than regular two-stroke engines at that time. Today’s

Burnett said that Yamaha, through its profi ciency in other

Verado four-stroke engines are even more fuel efficient, and

manufacturing areas, has gained expertise in moving air

Mercury Marine is committed to reducing friction within the

and is applying this to its outboard engines. He explained

engine. The result: it now emphasizes its “clean burning, fuel

that Yamaha has adapted a variable camshaft firing that

efficient four-stroke engines.”

Suzuki said that it is the fi rst manufacturer to offer electronic fuel injection without the need for battery power in its DF15A and

reduces NoX (nitrogen oxide) emissions and tunes the air delivery system so that it can deliver “the optimum amount of air” at consistent RPMs. He added that Yamaha has also implemented plasma fusion technology inside its cylinder walls to reduce friction.

DF20A four-stroke engines. It also

Sandstrom pointed out that there still are a lot of old two-

incorporates its “lean burn control

stroke engines on boats, and boaters with these engines

system” in its engines to predict

don’t realize the signifi cant amounts of money they could

and deliver the most efficient

be saving by switching to new versions. “It’s now in the best

fuel/air mixture. In addition,

interests of these consumers to make the change to today’s

its DF250A is equipped with a

outboard engines,” he said.

greatlakesboating.com | 17

HYBRIDS

AND ELECTRICS

What about hybrids and all electric motors? Sandstrom said that all major outboard manufacturers are at least looking into and considering these engines, but the technology needed to

on this technology to manufacture the world’s first OEM marine outboard engines that run on environmentally friendly propane. He introduced this new product at the Miami Boat Show in February.

make them cost efficiently and appealing to a broad spectrum

Herzer said propane is an American produced, less expensive

of consumers is just not there.

fuel than gasoline. It does not “go bad” with time, thereby

Sandstrom noted that while a lot has been written about these engines in recent years, the technology needed to move these engines to new levels is not currently available.

Moving electric outboards from 5 hp to 65 hp is “unrealistic,”

avoiding the fuel-related carburetor maintenance and repairs associated with ethanol-added fuels. And Lehr outboard motors are currently available nationwide through West Marine stores and Donovan Marine distributors.

according to Sandstrom. “You’d need 100,000 pounds. of batteries to power these models, making the weight and the

THE FUTURE

cost out of sight.”

Without giving away company secrets, Sandstrom said

Burnett agrees, saying that Yamaha has been looking at hybrids and electric motors for several years, but doesn’t believe the technology is available at the present time or in the near future to make them at a reasonable cost.

One of the most recent innovations in marine engines is the Lehr 2.5 hp and 5 hp propane gas motors, the brainchild of Capt. Bernardo J. Herzer, who founded

18 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

boaters shouldn’t look for major technological breakthroughs in the next breed of outboard motors the way EFI and four-stroke engines changed the boating landscape in the first decade of this century. “What we’ll see in the future is better quality products that run quieter and smoother. I also believe we’ll see lighter weight, more fuel efficient engines,” Sandstrom said.

Miller agrees, saying that innovation in marine engines may not be as significant as in the past decade, but it will be there.

He adds that outboard engine buyers will see continued improvement in fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

Lehr, Inc, an award-winning

Suzuki offers a good example of these incremental quality

technology company that

improvements. Most recently, the company began offering

patented the use of propane

selective rotation to its DF300AP by strengthening the lower

canisters to fuel small

unit’s forward and reverse gearing, which means the lower

engines in 2004. Because

unit will run in either right or left turning rotation. Boaters can

he was a boater, Herzer built

set standard or counter rotation when initializing the engine’s

electronic shift control. They no longer have to wait should a

marine engines several years

counter-rotation model be out of stock.

ago, and his initial tests in this

When it comes to purchasing outboard motors, today's

regard were “quite promising.”

boaters are no different than their predecessors of 10, 20, or

His interest in isobutanol

30 years ago. They went to turn on the key, hear the engine

took on more urgency

start, and they want this to happen day after day, time after

when manufacturers tested

time. “The single most important thing boaters want from their

E-15 in marine engines and

engines is reliability,” Sandstrom said.

found that the engines were

What does separate today’s boaters from their predecessors is that they, like their automobile counterparts, no longer consider reliability as an option when purchasing an outboard motor. “They [boaters] view reliability and durability as the ‘givens’ for any outboard engine purchase,” Miller said.

Boaters are expressing this quite clearly when they tell

gumming up, the carburetors had to be replaced and fuel efficiency seemed to disappear. It was at this time that Wasil approached NMMA, ABYC and Department of Energy for some more serious funding to undertake more practical tests on outboard motors. “So far, 18 months of testing have shown some promising results,” Wasil said.

marketing managers they want to enjoy a “hassle-free” day

In addition to testing, Wasil said a company, GEVO, Inc.,

on the water, and it begins and ends with a reliable engine.

is looking to ramp up its production of isobtanol on a commercial basis. “We need the higher volumes to make

ALTERNATIVE

FUEL

it a more cost effective product,” Wasil said.

The next great evolution for outboard engines may not

Wasil confi rmed that isobutanol testing is currently being

be technological, but rather a new alternative fuel called

done on a variety of marine engines, including a 5.7L Volvo-

“isobutanol,” described by some researchers as the marine

Penta, a 150 hp four-stroke Yamaha, and a 150 hp E-TEC from

industry's answer to E-15 gasoline.

Evinrude. The current testing is a critical step in determining

Jeff Wasil, Engineering Technical Expert for Emissions Testing at BRP, was one of the fi rst outboard engine researchers to investigate isobutanol, which converts fermented sugars from sustainable feedstocks into a fuel that can be added to gasoline. Wasil believed that isobutanol could be a viable alternative to ethanol fuels in

how the product works in marine engines. If the testing proves successful, perhaps DoE will approve the alternative fuel for use in marine engines. Wasil added that he will be submitting tests results to DoE at the end of year, and the federal agency is expected to issue a final testing report on isobutanol in the spring of 2013. Stay tuned!

greatlakesboating.com | 19

ECO-FRIENDLY

T

IPS for YOUR

BOAT

By Wyatt Hanks, Marine Mechanics Institute

O

ne of the best things about boating is enjoying the

Other green options to research include using trim tabs or

clear waters of our lakes, rivers and oceans while

hydrofoils to maximize fuel efficiency and reducing your

breathing the fresh air that surrounds them. To help

boat’s toxic discharge by using a nontoxic antifouling paint

maintain a clean environment for generations of boaters to

for the bottom of the vessel.

come, you can adopt these earth-conscious choices when selecting and maintaining your boat.

START

WITH A

GOOD EDUCATION

MAKE MARINE MAINTENANCE ROUTINE With a steady maintenance routine, you can boost your

Your eco-friendly approach should begin with the boat you

boat’s performance and reduce your impact on the marine

choose. With a little research, you’ll find a variety of vessels

environment. First, prevent fuel and oil leaks by making

that offer fuel-effi cient motors and other environmentally

sure your engine is always well tuned. And when you’re

sound features. Thanks to a simple star rating system that

fueling up, prevent spills by filling the tanks slowly and only

showcases each model’s efficiency and emissions scores,

to 90 percent, allowing room for the gas to expand during

it’s easy to get a clear picture of the “footprint” your new

warm temperatures.

boat will have on the earth.

Though it’s tempting to take care of maintenance issues

If you already have a boat, educate yourself about engine

onboard, avoid cleaning and servicing your boat while

upgrades and other features that will help lower fuel and

it’s in the water whenever possible. When you save those

maintenance costs, as well as your environmental impact.

projects for the boatyard, you’re saving the waterways from

For instance, if you still have an old-fashioned two-stroke

pollution. If you must perform upkeep or make repairs on

outboard, consider replacing it with a four-stroke engine.

the water, contain runoff and waste using tarps and vacuum

In addition to reducing gas consumption and pollution, the

sanders. That way, any drips or debris from your work can be

updated engine will create a more enjoyable experience for

properly discarded when you’re back on land. And when it’s

your crew with less noise and fumes.

necessary to clean your vessel on the water, be sure to use

20 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

phosphate-free, biodegradable soap to minimize the impacts

fishing line and boating equipment pose a danger to wildlife

of “gray water” on the marine environment.

and pollute the water. Keep garbage and recycling bags onboard so your passengers aren’t tempted to toss these

PLAY

IT

SAFE

ON THE

WATER

When accidents happen, it’s best to have a plan in place and

items overboard. And when it comes to discharging your sewage, be sure to take advantage of pump-out stations and shore-side facilities to properly dispose of waste.

a safety kit on board to help fi x the problem fast and with as little environmental damage as possible. Safety kits are

Boating offers a range of recycling opportunities, as well.

handy for quickly addressing minor issues, such as small

Many marinas and waterfront parks offer convenient recycling

leaks or oil spills.

bins for plastic, glass, metal and paper. And your boat’s 12volt, lead-acid battery can easily be reused. In fact, some

With this in mind, one of the most important items for your

boating retailers offer a credit for each battery brought into

kit is an oil absorbent pad or pillow that can be placed in

their stores for recycling. Finally, if you shrink-wrap your boat

the bilge and under your engine where leaks and drips may

for winter storage, that material can be collected for recycling

occur. Once you’ve addressed the leak and returned to land,

at many marinas, boat dealerships and suppliers.

be sure to dispose of the pads as hazardous waste. Other key safety kit items include plastic bags, which also can be

Though one boater’s green habits may seem like a drop in the

used to catch and contain oil drips and leaks, and a working

ocean, each eco-friendly action has a positive impact on the

fire extinguisher.

waters we cherish. By taking small steps like these, you can help conserve the marine environments that first lured you to

WASTE NOT

launch a boat, bait a hook or sail the ocean blue.

Wyatt Hanks is the education manager for the Marine Mechanics

As with camping, hiking or any other outdoor activity, boaters

Institute in Orlando, Fla., a division of Universal Technical Institute

should strive to leave no trace of their presence on the natural

(UTI). Visit w w w.uti.edu for more information about UTI and

environment. Trash such as food and beverage containers,

its programs.

greatlakesboating.com | 21

T

he beauty of this noble stream at almost any point, but especially in the commencement of this journey when it winds its way among the thousand Islands, can hardly be imagined. The number and constant successions of these islands, all green and richly wooded; their fluctuating sizes, some so large that for half an hour together one among them will appear as the opposite bank of the river, and some so small that they are mere dimples on its broad bosom; their infinite variety of shapes; and the numberless combinations of beautiful forms which the trees growing on them present: all form a picture fraught with uncommon interest and pleasure.

Charles Dickens American Notes, 1842

22 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

The St. Lawrence River scene that enchanted

Filled with striking scenery and interesting historic

Charles Dickens 170 years ago is still providing

sites, the region is a popular tourist destination (see

21st century boaters with uncommon interest and

www.visit1000islands.com). The region’s favorite

pleasure. The name, 1000 Islands, may sound like

attractions include scenic river cruises, visits to

hyperbole, but it is actually an understatement.

Boldt and Singer castles, historic forts, the Antique

There are 1,864 charted islands in the region, nearly

Boat Museum and state and provincial parks.

all of them privately owned. As Dickens noted, they range in size from more than 10 miles long to fractions of an acre.

Central to it all is the water. The waterscape that mixes into a dramatic panorama of meandering channels, broad open spaces and cozy bays

The St. Lawrence flows from the eastern basin of

makes the place a boater’s buffet. Glance down

Lake Ontario and runs all the way to the Atlantic

the calendar of summer events and you will find

through Northern New York State, Ontario and

that life centers around the water with power boat

Québec. The 1000 Islands occupy the easternmost

“poker runs,” antique boat shows, tall ship visits,

bays of the Lake Ontario and (generally speaking)

sailing regattas, fishing tournaments, PWC outings

the fi rst 50 miles of the St. Lawrence. The United

and kayak tours. On the New York side of the

States–Canada border zigzags among the Islands,

river alone, 20,000 boats are registered for use

separating New York from Ontario

in Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties.

Ned Dikmen

The 1000 Islands are a unique combination of big Great

estate in the region runs a wide gamut, from grand private

Lakes water that can accommodate large cruisers, yachts,

island homes to modest summer cottages. This is a summer

even freighters, and protected water that generally offers

destination. Most homes are used regularly May through

comfortable conditions for casual days of boating and fishing

October, and many are not constructed for winter use.

even in small craft. Imagine leaving a protected dock in your own front yard and being able to cruise downriver 60 miles before encountering a lock or upriver and out to Lake Ontario, or north into the Canadian Rideau canal system that is a World Heritage Site.

Prices for waterfront cottages with dockage are a relative bargain, starting around $250,000 and ranging to $2 million.

A recent survey by the local tourism office found that about 88 percent of vacation homes in the region are valued at less than $500,000. But be warned, each property is unique,

A decade after Dickens traveled down the St. Lawrence, the

and it takes patience to find the one that suits your own wish

islands began to be sold for recreational use. For the past

list. Many homes pass generation to generation, and buyers

150 years, â&#x20AC;&#x153;summer peopleâ&#x20AC;? have been building vacation

have been known to set up deals on their dream property

homes in the 1000 Islands. Today, thousands of vacation

years in advance of the actual sale. Still, browsing the local

homes occupy the islands and river shoreline. Waterfront real

MLS listings is sure to spark any boaterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s imagination and

24 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

newcomers with a love of water are always welcome

its shores, you encounter a mix of those chosen people,

(www.nnymls.com).

from Generation X’ers who grew up on the river and have

Your front yard will be the side of the home that faces the water. Fundamental to any real estate decision is the character of that waterfront and its improvements. Antique

abandoned urban professions to boomers who have carefully structured their lives and careers to maximize time spent on the water.

boat enthusiasts will want a boathouse to protect their

What creates the 1000 Islands’ sense of community is not

mahogany treasures. Sailors need a dock with good depth;

based on ethnic heritage or a dominant industry, but on a

anglers value locations near proven “hot spots,” paddlers

deep connection to “The River.” The lifestyle here is laid back

may want access to quiet channels. While a beautiful view

and neighborly. Boating and fishing often bring generations

is treasured, it is best complimented by a dock that fits the

together and forge friendships that ignore social stature.

needs of the homeowner.

The St. Lawrence connects a series of waterfront villages. On

Like any community, the river has neighborhoods with

the New York side, the villages are Cape Vincent, Clayton,

individual character. Some neighborhoods are cottage rows

Alexandria Bay and Morristown. On the Ontario side, the

on the mainland shore that share private roads. Others may be

villages include Gananoque, Ivy Lea and Rockport, plus the

larger islands that have been divided into smaller parcels. You

city of Brockville. The villages are absolutely boater-friendly.

can find historic enclaves of Victorian cottages like Thousand

You can tie up at the public dock and stroll to restaurants and

Island Park on Wellesley Island or modern condominium

shops. Many waterfront restaurants in the region offer patron

developments. So, you can choose the convenience of a

dockage, public parks have marinas and even the hospital in

property on the mainland shoreline or fully commit to “boat

Alexandria Bay has a dock.

access only” life on an island. For most, after all the elements are weighed, the purchase is more a commitment to lifestyle, than real estate investment.

As you’d expect, there are plenty of boating services available, with dozens of marinas and boat dealerships dotting the shores near the villages. The deep-water marinas also host

One shopkeeper in Clayton, N. Y., explained, “The River

many summer residents living aboard houseboats and

chooses its people.” Indeed, many of the 1000 Islanders

cruisers (but that’s another story).

are powerfully drawn to return to the St. Lawrence. Along

Photos cour tesy of 1000 Islands International Tourism Council unless other wise noted Ned Dikmen greatlakesboating.com | 25

WinterStorage

By Jerome A. Koncel

A

lthough it’s warm, sunny and breezy right at the moment, boaters know that winter is fast approaching, so now’s the time to start planning for winter storage. Boaters need to decide on the boat storage method that best fits their needs and pocketbooks.

done on their boats. For these people, repair and storage

There are basically four types of winter storage: self-storage,

Some require boaters to reserve their times for pullouts and

or park it by the side of your house or backyard and wrap it in

putbacks. Others tell boaters to come when they want. The

something to protect it from the elements; public self-storage;

standard method for hauling boats out and returning them to

outside boatyard storage, where boats are kept safe, secure

the water are marine travelifts, although overhead cranes are

and in shrinkwrap; and indoor storage.

not uncommon and forklifts and mobile storage units seem to

The fi rst three choices are straight forward, so let’s take a

be essential.

more detailed look at heated indoor storage.

Engine winterization is standard practice at some facilities, an

go hand-in-hand, and they are very loyal to those businesses that provide good customer service. Why? Because their boats are not just pieces of equipment, but rather prized possessions, and there are only a few people they trust with their valuable assets.

When it comes to winter storage, no two facilities are alike.

option at others. Some facilities checkout boats before they’re

OPTIONS AVAILABLE

stored, present a checklist of “action items” to customers and

It used to be that indoor boat storage was confi ned to

then perform routine and special maintenance work, ranging

unheated buildings, but not any more. Indoor heated

from doing cosmetic repairs of small scratches to repowering

storage is becoming much more common and is no

boat engines. Some storage businesses allow boaters to do

longer an exclusive option for boaters.

“some work” on their boats, while others require all work to be done by “their certified marine techs.”

Boaters who choose heated indoor storage do so for safety, security and to protect their boats from the elements, but

Prices vary according to boat size, storage location, whether

they also view this time as an opportunity to have work

the mast is up or down on sailboats and “the hometown discount” for those customers also storing their vessels

28 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

at the marina’s slips in the summer. Businesses charge by multiplying length x width x sq. footage rate. There’s even a difference here as to whether it’s LoA or standard specs.

Finally, some facilities only store powerboats, some store both sailboats and powerboats, some only store sailboats.

Some businesses use a computer template to store boats, others use racks, and still others fi t as many boats as they can. So, let’s highlight some heated storage facilities.

CHICAGO HARBOR SYSTEM A relative newcomer to the winter storage ranks, the Chicago Harbor System is in its third year of offering winter storage, but now offers inside heated storage at its new 31st Street harbor.

The indoor facility is a “green project” that uses lake water

OSELKA’S MARINA

to heat the facility and has five feet of green growth on the

New Buffalo, Mich., has more than 1,000 boats docked in

rooftop. While it accepts both powerboats and sailboats at

its harbor during the summer boating season, and Oselka

its indoor storage, the maximum height of the mast on the

Marina stores 350 of them: 100 outdoor, 100 in unheated

keel can only be 15 feet. As part of its contract, the Chicago

buildings and150 in heated indoor storage.

Harbor System washes the boat’s bottom before storing it away and provides boat stands or a boat cradle at no cost.

The marina prides itself in safely hauling out boats with an experienced crew. “We break our crews up into teams that

A new offering this year is repair service. The Chicago

specialize on various storage activities, such as haulouts,

Harbor System has contracted with Skipper Bud’s to

engine winterization, shrinkwraps, and so forth,” said Mark

perform boat repairs for its customers, adding another

Oselka, service manager. He adds that the marina includes

convenience for customers.

winterization of engines, air conditioners, and generators, as well as powerwashing in its seasonal fee.

greatlakesboating.com gre grea tlakesbo tlak esbo boatin ting.c tin .co m | 29 .c

Rob Hannah, managing partner, says one thing that separates his business from others is the breadth of repair services it offers to customers. “There is nothing we can’t or won’t do for our customers when it comes to repairing their boats,” he said. He added that the business also charges customers according to the boat’s specified length, not LoA. Chicago Yacht Yard uses two 125,000-pound cranes to haul out boats and put them back in the spring. It also uses fulltime employees to move boats in and out of the water. “We haven’t had any boat haulout damages in the last 10 years,” Hannah said. A major reason for this is the experienced crews headed by an operations manager with more than 41 years of experience operating cranes.

Hannah said his storage business experienced a drop off in the 2008-2010 period, but is doing quite well this year. “We’re seeing an uptick in our business and in the industry as a whole,” said Hannah.

ELDEAN’S SHIPYARD Oselka’s biggest challenge is coordinating schedules so that

Eldean’s Shipyard, Macatawa, Mich., is a leader in indoor

boats are put away in a timely fashion. “As hard as we try, it

heated storage and today offers 150,000 sq. ft of space in

always seems there’s a crunch to store boats,” said Oselka.

seven separate heated storage buildings. “Our customers

But for boaters in New Buffalo, Oselka Marina offers a winter

come from all over the Great Lakes, including New Buffalo,

package that eliminates the storage line. “For people who

Chicago, and even Racine and Kenosha (Wis.),” said Matt

dock with us or in the New Buffalo environs, we will pick up

Eldean, co-owner, Eldean Shipyard.

their boats and take them to our facilities at no cost,” said Oselka. He adds that boaters who use the marina’s slips in the summer and storage in the winter also receive either pricing discounts or repair credits.

The shipyard is pro-active in helping boaters enjoy the boating lifestyle. In addition to a seasonal contract, customers receive a list of repair options they can have done and check off which ones they want done, ranging from winterization to complex mechanical repairs of

CHICAGO YACHT YARD Located on the Chicago River only a few miles from downtown Chicago, Chicago Yacht Yard offers 300,000

engines, generators, and so forth. It also offers boaters who store their boats in the summer and winter at Eldean’s some repair credits and discounts.

sq. ft. of indoor heated storage for between 500 to 550

Because all of its storage facilities are indoor heated, the

boats depending on their size.

business does not have a scheduling problem with haulouts.

“We don’t give boaters a date for dropping off their boats, but rather tell them to drop it off here at their convenience, and we’ll put it into storage,” said Eldean.

CROWLEY’S YACHT AND STORAGE YARD, LLC On the southeast side of Chicago sits one of the largest sailboat storage businesses in the country. Crowley’s offers four storage buildings that were built in the 1980s for storage and caters primarily to sailboaters. It prides itself on being home for boaters year-round noting that 80 percent of the boaters who store their vessels here in the summer also use the business for winter storage.

30 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

Grant Crowley, managing partner for Crowley’s Yacht and

acquiring the next door storage facility (Gull Lake Marine) in

Storage Yard, describes his business as “a full-service

2010, and is looking to add employees while others are laying

business,” and this is where challenges crop up. He explains

them off.

that some boaters ask Crowley’s to perform repair work on their vessels that are 25 to 30 years old, and there are no parts available for them. “In many cases, the builders are no longer in existence,” he said. When this occurs, Crowley’s will either build the parts themselves or outsource them.

Rae Ellen Thyer, owner of the business, said the boatyard offers 85,000 sq. ft. of indoor storage in 17 different buildings, both heated and unheated. The boatyard’s biggest challenge is optimizing storage space. “It’s just not a question of fitting boats into buildings,” said Thyer, “it’s also whether the boat

Like Eldean’s, Crowley’s will inspect their customers’ vessels

needs to be repaired and how soon the owner wants the

and invariably will discover some needed repairs, such as an

vessel in the water in the spring.”

old hose or fuel pump or generator that doesn’t work properly.

It will perform these repairs after receiving the customer’s approval of written repairs and estimates.

To entice people to have repair work done during the winter, Thyer offers a reduced hourly rate for its mechanical work, and adds that all repair work is done in heated facilities. The rate drops to $70 per hour compared to $85 in the summer.

NORTHPORT BAY BOAT YARD In the heart of Grand Traverse Bay, Mich., lies Northport

CHOOSING

Bay Boat Yard, whose winter storage and repair operation

Winter is coming soon, but boaters have many options when

has bucked the economic trend of the past four years. The

it comes to winter storage. The key is to select which one is

business has been full for the past five years, has grown by

best for their lifestyle and wallet.

YOUR OPTION

greatlakesboating.com | 31

A

s a young “Coastie” reporting for duty onboard the

To prevent falls overboard, boaters need to make the

USCGC Point Judith, one of the first rules I was taught

boating environment as physically safe as possible. This

when underway was: “One hand for you, and one

includes making safety improvements, such as installing

for the boat.” A boat underway is in near-constant motion—

non-slip decking, raising the height of the railings and

moving forward, arcing into a turn, bobbing up and down. All

taking steps to reduce risky onboard behavior that can

of this activity makes falling overboard a very real risk when

have unintended consequences.

you’re out on the water.

For example, don’t boat alone and make it a rule that no one

Perhaps you slipped on wet decking, got caught in heavy

goes up on deck alone. Boaters should initiate this rule so

weather or had been drinking when you went over the side.

that if anyone should go over the side, you want someone on

If the water was frigid, and you were out on the boat alone

hand to initiate a rescue.

and not wearing a life jacket, your chances of surviving were greatly reduced. Last year 359 boaters fell overboard. More than half of them died, making falls one of the primary factors in boating fatalities.

When moving about the boat, keep three points of contact at all times, i.e. both hands and one foot or both feet and one hand, to maintain stability. Discourage passengers, children especially, from rough-housing or sitting on gunwales and

Falls overboard are a major concern for boaters because there

seatbacks while the boat is underway and set a zero tolerance

is considerable potential for serious injury from the fall itself.

policy for alcohol or drug use on board

Also, if a boat operator is thrown overboard without an installed engine cut-off switch, the boat could continue on, leaving the boater stranded in the water, perhaps miles from shore. More typically, the boat would go into a tight turn and circle back towards the operator in the water, possibly running over him.

32 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

Finally, consider what personal protection you and your passengers will need if—despite your best efforts—someone falls overboard. Make sure that you and your passengers wear life jackets at all times on the water and consider adding

HOW TO KEEP EVERYONE IN THE BOAT …

• • • • • • • • •

Raise the height of railings

Any number of events and situations can cause

Install non-slip decking

even an experienced boater to go overboard. If this

Attach an ignition safety switch lanyard to your

happens, don’t panic, but do raise an alarm. As soon

wrist,clothes or life jacket

as someone notices a person falling into or flailing in

Consider installing an automated Man Overboard

the water, he or she should point to the individual and

alarm system

shout “Man Overboard!” followed by “Port Side!” or

Set a zero tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs

“Starboard Side!” depending on whether the person is

on board

on the left (Port) or right (Starboard) side of the boat.

Don’t boat alone and make it a rule that no one

This is essential in open water where it’s easy to lose

goes out on deck alone

track of a person’s location. Be sure someone keeps

When moving about the boat, try to maintain three

pointing until the person is rescued. Swing the stern

points of contact with the boat at all times, i.e. two

and propeller away from the person in the water, then

feet and one hand or two hands and one foot

remember the maxim to Reach, Throw, Row, or Go:

Keep passengers off gunwales and seatbacks while the boat is in motion.

REACH for the victim and pull them toward the boat.

Make your turns at an appropriate speed and let

Too far to reach?

passengers know when you’re about to turn or make

• • •

speed changes that could throw them off balance

THROW

Don’t allow horseplay on board while the boat

jacket, an empty ice chest, seat cushions, anything

is underway

that floats. Too far out for a thrown object?

the person something buoyant—a spare life

Avoid boating in rough water conditions and bad weather

ROW or maneuver the vessel closer to the person

To be on the safe side, make sure everyone, pets

in the water, being careful to keep the person in view

included, wears a life jacket at all times on deck and,

at all times. Is the victim unconscious or otherwise

if you boat off shore, consider adding whistles and

unable to aid in their own rescue?

personal locator beacons to the life jackets

•

Be sure your boat is equipped with a ladder or sling

Put on a life jacket, take along something buoyant and

to help anyone overboard get back in the boat.

GO to the person in the water. Consider this a last resort.

… or get them back in if they fall

If there’s any doubt about safety, call the U.S. Coast Guard for assistance on your VHF-FM marine radio.

a whistle and a personal locator beacon (PLB) to each life

Therefore, before leaving the dock, take time out for a safety

jacket if you boat off shore.

huddle with your passengers. Knowing what’s expected of

Man overboard devices are another important item for your safety toolbox. Engine cut-off switches have been around for years and use a lanyard tethered to the boat operator to shut down the engine if the operator falls overboard. Newer

them, where safety equipment is located and how to use it can greatly reduce the risk of falls overboard and, equally as important, make your passengers critical assets in a boating emergency.

tethers employ wireless technology with a host receiver to protect the boat operator and up to three passengers on the same boat. Because of wind and engine noise, it is possible for a passenger to fall overboard and the boat operator to be unaware of it. With a wireless tether for operator and passengers, however, if any person onboard should take an unplanned plunge, the system sounds a piercing alarm and shuts down the engine.

By Mike Baron U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety ***** The U.S. Coast Guard reminds all boaters to “Boat Responsibly!” For

Both new and experienced boaters should remember that

more tips on boating safety, visit

prevention is the most desirable type of injury control.

www.uscgboating.org.

greatlakesboating.com | 33

AUTOMATED IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS part 1 A

utomatic Identification System—or AIS—is one of the hottest product categories in marine electronics. In recent years, most manufacturers have added AIS products to their recreational product lines, either as “Stand Alone AIS,” “AIS/VHF Combos” or “Black Box” modules that have no displays of their own but provide AIS target information to compatible systems such as chartplotters, PCs and radar.

CLASS DISTINCTION

While some boaters immediately jumped on the AIS

considering the wide availability of affordable Class B

bandwagon, many others are still trying to figure out if AIS is

systems that perform the functions most boaters need.

If you’re new to the AIS scene, talk of Class A and Class B AIS may confuse you. Class A AIS is “commercial grade” equipment mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for international voyaging ships of 300+ tons and all passenger ships, regardless of size. Although there is nothing preventing recreational vessels from carrying Class A AIS, the expense is often a barrier—particularly

something they really need and will use. One thing is certain, as AIS technology becomes widely available, more accepted and more affordable, it will find its way onto more vessels— especially as older marine electronics packages are replaced with new, integrated helm systems.

Selecting an AIS for your boat is not an easy decision. That’s why the experts at The GPS Store have written a two-part series to help boaters make informed decisions about AIS, to ensure they end up with a system that meets their needs and suits their boating lifestyle.

In this article, the experts offer a basic explanation of AIS and how it works. In part two, which will appear in the next issue of Great Lakes Boating, boaters will gain a better understanding of the practical applications of AIS.

WHAT

IS

AIS?

Wikipedia defines AIS as an automatic tracking system used

Class A systems must have an integrated display, cannot be

on ships and by vessel traffic services for identifying and

made “silent” and transmit at 12W for an effective range of

locating vessels by electronically exchanging data with other

40+ miles. Recreational Class B systems transmit at 2W for

nearby ships and AIS base stations. It also describes AIS

an effective maximum transmission range of five to 10 miles.

as a supplement to marine radar for the purpose of collision

With Class B units, vessel owners can choose “receive only”

avoidance. It does this by providing data, such as unique ID,

or shut off their Class B transmitters for occasions when they

position, bearing, course, speed and other information, to

don’t want to broadcast their vessel’s data.

other AIS-equipped vessels or land stations. This information also includes vessel size, destination and dangerous cargo, if any.

34 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

Both Class A and Class B units receive all types of AIS signals. Every AIS unit that transmits must be registered with

the vessel’s Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI), a ninedigit ID number exclusive to each vessel.

TO SEND OR RECEIVE, THAT THE QUESTION

IS

Boaters considering Class B AIS have to decide whether they want a unit that sends and receives AIS signals (Class B AIS transceiver) or just receives (Class B AIS receiver). Both offer safety benefits for recreational boaters. A receiver allows you to see and track AIS-equipped vessels in your area, providing the operator with improved situational awareness.

A transceiver adds the ability for other AIS-equipped vessels to see and track you—important for safe navigation, keeping vessels together in group activities, such as tournament fishing or sailing regattas, and for speeding aid to your position in emergency situations.

THE RIGHT SYSTEM RIGHT BOAT

FOR THE

There are many options in Class B AIS. Choosing the right one for a given boat depends largely on where it will be installed and how it will be used. For smaller boats, a

may be able to set up advanced functions like fi ltering of

compact AIS module like the new SI-TEX Metadata—which

targets displayed by type and distance, or the ability to

is waterproof for flexible mounting—is inexpensive and ideal

view AIS targets in different colors based on the class

for integrating with existing navigation systems. It is available

of vessel. Boaters should investigate the AIS integration

in both send/receive or receive only and features an internal

capabilities of their specific navigation systems, and check

50-channel GPS smart antenna eliminating the need for an

to see if any recent software updates have been issued by

external GPS sensor. Hook this equipment to a separate VHF

the manufacturer that could enhance these features.

antenna and onboard plotters, radar or PC with the built-in

Several manufacturers also offer stand-alone AIS units with

NMEA2000, NMEA013 or USB interface (which doubles as a

dedicated displays—from basic monochrome LCDs to large

power source for the module), and you have all critical AIS

color screens with high-detail charting capabilities. These

information available.

require more installation room on the helm and cost more

How you can view/use information provided by black box

to purchase, but can offer more advanced AIS functions,

AIS units can vary based on the software in the device

such as the ability to monitor position, speed and heading of

you’re connecting it to. You may only be able to view AIS

vessels on a “radar”-style display with range rings, set alarms

“stick figures” and vessel information on the display, or you

for Closest Point of Approach (CPA) and Time to Closest Point of Approach (TCPA), filter/analyze AIS target data, and more.

If you frequently fish or navigate in crowded shipping lanes or heavily trafficked commercial waterways and believe fulltime, dedicated monitoring of all AIS targets is important, a dedicated Class B system with its own display may better meet your needs.

UPCOMING Part 2 of this series will be published in the next issue and will examine some of the practical ways boaters can use AIS technology to improve safety on the water and enhance their boating experience.

To learn more about AIS products, call 800-477-2611 or visit www.TheGPSStore.com.

greatlakesboating.com | 35

Great Lakes

GREAT LAKES LIGHTHOUSE FESTIVAL

vehicle), entertainment and vendors. The festival will host more than 100 maritime-related vendors, including lighthouse preservation groups, artists, authors and more.

Tim Harrison, editor in chief and publisher of Lighthouse Digest and president of the American Lighthouse Foundation, said the Great Lakes Festival is the largest in North America.

“There is no other festival like it in the United States,” said Harrison. “The organizers have done a fantastic job of drawing both vendors and lighthouse buffs from around the globe to what has become the largest and best lighthouse The 2012 Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival (GLLF) will take

festival in the nation.”

place October 11 to 14 with the main site for activities being the Alpena APLEX Event Center in Alpena, Mich. Lighthouses from Tawas to Mackinaw, Mich. will be open for tours and visits.

To be included on the Festival’s mailing list and receive the 2012 Program of Activities and Events, send a $3 check to the following address: Melanie Kim, c/o GLLF, 15391 Haverhill, Harrison, MI 48044.

This four-day event provides activities for the young and the old, including lighthouse tours (by air, boat, or personal

BOATING DEATHS LINKED TO ALCOHOL SOAR The number of boating deaths linked to alcohol on Illinois

who disappeared in May was found dead in the Rock River

waterways has increased over the past fi ve years, and the

in Winnebago County after leaving a bar.

nine deaths reported last year makes it the highest number since 2004, according to a report in the August 5, 2012 Chicago Tribune.

Capt. Joe Morelock of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources says drinking plays a role in almost all of the accidents the department investigates. He says the

The U.S Coast Guard said that Illinois ranks second nationally

department is struggling to maintain a police presence

in such fatalities, with only Wisconsin recording more boating

on waterways because of budget cuts.

deaths linked to alcohol. This year, for example, one boater

LAKE ERIE TESTS POSITIVE FOR ASIAN CARP EDNA Six water samples taken from Sandusky and north Maumee

In response to these findings, electro-shocking and netting

bays tested positive for the presence of Asian carp

began in mid-July in Sandusky Bay with no evidence of Asian

environmental DNA in Michigan and Ohio waters, according

carp found. However, the Ohio and Michigan DNRs plan

to federal and state wildlife officials working in conjunction

additional testing and monitoring in conjunction with

with academic researchers.

partner agencies.

The positive samples were among 417 taken from Lake

While the eDNA findings suggest the possible presence of the

Erie in August 2011, and more than 2,000 samples taken

invasive species, officials have no physical evidence the fish

from the Great Lakes Basin since 2010. The Lake Erie batch

have migrated to the Great Lakes.

was recently analyzed and test results were confirmed by eDNA researchers.

Officials from the Michigan and Ohio DNRs, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, the U.S. Fish and

Four samples from Sandusky Bay, in Ohio waters, tested

Wildlife Service, and White House Council on Environmental

positive for bighead carp eDNA, while two samples from

Quality are developing a plan of action in collaboration with

north Maumee Bay, in Michigan waters, were positive for

the eDNA research team to obtain follow-up samples and

silver carp eDNA.

test results as quickly as possible.

36 GLB | Sept/Oct 12

STATES URGE CAUTION ON BOAT RAMPS IDNR-Stephen Forbes State Park

The Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the Indiana Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR) Div. of Fish and Wildlife are urging boaters in their respective states to use extra caution at boat launches because of low water levels resulting from the ongoing drought conditions.

Low water levels increase the risk to boaters putting in or taking vessels out of the water and could cause damage to boats if caution isn’t used, according to the state agencies.

“Water levels on lakes and rivers will probably continue to decrease and so some boat ramps may not be able to accommodate the angle some boats need to get in and out of the water,” said Marc Miller, IDNR director.

Jamie Smyth, fisheries staff specialist with the Indiana DNR The two states own and manage hundreds of public boat

Div. of Fish and Wildlife, which administers boat ramps, said

access areas. At press deadline, they have not closed any

that the Division does not plan to close any boat ramps, but

boat ramps, and boaters may use the ramps at their own

is urging people to use their own discretion when using these

risk. Because conditions change rapidly on rivers, it’s up to

facilities, especially those on rivers.

boaters to use their best judgment to determine if it’s worth the risk to use the boat launches.

NEW TOOL HELPS BOATERS ON ST. LAWRENCE 1000 Islands International Tourism Council.

The Web-based application provides real-time and 12-hour forecasted current and depth data for points all along the St. Lawrence River. Boaters and marina operators can access the site by computer and smartphone. Users can request email and text alerts be sent when their personal preset data point, i.e. a specific water depth or speed, is reached.

Conditions on the St. Lawrence River can change dramatically due to weather events, draw downs in the system, pooling and ponding, Dave White, New York Sea Grant Coastal Recreation and Tourism Specialist, said. “This new technology will help St. Lawrence River boaters plan and adjust their travel based on real-time and immediate future forecasting.”

Recreational boaters traveling the St. Lawrence River

The new tool integrates data from various sources, including

now have a new, easy-to-use, web-based application

Environment Canada. Kelli Page, GLOS program coordinator,

(www.glos.us) to help them on their journey.

Ann Arbor, Mich., said this tool is just the first phase of a larger project. “GLOS has plans to extend the scope of the new tool

New York Sea Grant recently introduced the Great Lakes

across the entire Great Lakes Basin in 2013,” she explained.

Observing System (GLOS) St. Lawrence River Boaters Forecasting tool to the public. This new tool extends Great Lakes global observing technology to the St. Lawrence River with some data specific to the river system.

greatlakesboating.com | 37

Great Lakes

BOATERS GET BUOY DATA THROUGH TEXTS

National Data Buoy Center operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and relays it back to the user in a simplified text format.

Users can access the service by sending a text message to 734-418-7299 with only the station ID in the body of the message. The new service allows for instant access to observations from approximately 40 buoys and 100 shoreline stations from all five Great Lakes, as well as Lake St. Clair.

Visit tinyurl.com/9664me7 for a full list of available stations.

A map version is available at: ndbc.noaa.gov. Station ids for buoys are all numbers and shoreline stations begin with a number. Thus, the buoy located off St. Joseph, Mich., has a station id of 45026.

The latest weather observations from buoys and

The service is provided free of charge. However, a user’s

other shoreline stations around the Great Lakes are

cell phone provider may charge a fee to send and receive

now available to boaters, fishermen, and others through

a text message. Check with your cell phone provider for

a text message service.

more information.

The text message service accesses the latest observations of wind speed, air temperature and wave height from the

FEDERAL FUNDING FOR DEBRIS REMOVAL The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA)

involving the removal of marine debris, providing social

Marine Debris Program, in cooperation with the NOAA

benefits for people and their communities, and creating

Restoration Center, is offering financial grants for the removal

long-term ecological habitat improvements for NOAA

of marine debris. For this grant proposal, marine debris is

trust resources.

defined as any persistent solid material that is manufactured or processed and directly or indirectly, intentionally or unintentionally, disposed of or abandoned into the marine environment or the Great Lakes.

This funding opportunity supports efforts to catalyze the implementation of locally driven, community-based marine debris prevention, assessment, and removal projects that will benefit coastal habitat, waterways, and NOAA trust resources. Financial support will be given to programs offering on-the-ground habitat restoration components

To receive funding, communities and organizations, as well as local, state, and tribal governments need to send an application by Nov. 1, 2012 to NOAA’s Marine Debris Removal Project. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/37gcehl.

Successful proposals selected through a competitive grant process will be funded through a cooperative agreement.

Funding of up to $2 million is expected to be available for Community-based Marine Debris Removal Project Grants in FY2013. Typical awards will range from $15,000 to $150,000.

AUTUMN WINE FESTIVALS BECKON BOATERS As summer wanes, boaters can wind their way along the

On September 23 to 25, boaters can stop in at North

Great Lakes Seaway Trail to attend many wine festivals.

East, Pennsylvania’s Wine Country Harvest Festival. Visit

Here’s a list of some upcoming events.

www.nechamber.org for more information.

On September 17, a wine festival will be held at Boldt Castle

In November, the wineries along Lake Erie from Forestville,

on Heart Islands in the 1,000 Islands region at Alexandria

N.Y. to North East, Pa., invite boaters to stop by November

Bay. For more information, visit www.boldtcastle.com.

4 to 6 and 11 to 13 for harvest season weekends. For more information, check www.lakeeriewinecountry.org.

38 GLB | Sept/Oct 12

WALLACE LAKE REOPENS TO BOATERS Wallace Lake in Berea, Ohio, part of the Cleveland Metroparks

conducted on July 27. At the same time, the Metroparks

Mill Stream Run Reservation, was temporarily closed to

managers decided that fishing and boating were the most

fishing and boating this summer so that a full lake herbicide

likely modes of transporting and spreading Hydrilla to new

treatment could take place to kill a non-native plant found in

locations, so the lake was closed to fishing and boating until

the lake. It was expected to reopen on August 27.

August 27 while the systemic herbicide kills the plant.

According to Metroparks, the non-native plant, Hydrilla,

The current situation is not expected to affect either winter

was found last summer in Wallace Lake and at two nearby

fishing or the stocking of trout at the lake, which is considered

Metroparks wetlands. The findings were the first records of

the Metroparks most popular ice fishing destination.

this plant in Northern Ohio. To stop the plant from spreading, it was treated with an aquatic herbicide wherever it was found.

Continued monitoring of the lake saw Hydrilla spread this

For more information on the fishing/boating ban, contact Mike Durkalec, aquatic biologist, at 440-331-8017 or email him: md@clevelandmetroparks.com.

summer. As a result, a full lake herbicide treatment was

TIPS ON FUEL SAVINGS Rising gasoline and diesel fuel prices are prompting boaters

Croft said that by joining BoatUS or BoatUS Angler for $24/

to look for ways to save on fuel, and BoatUS offers some tips

year, members can receive up to 10 cents off each gallon

to its members.

of fuel purchased at more than 340 BoatUS cooperating

Scott Croft, spokesman for the Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatUS), said that gas and diesel fuel prices were fairly stable at the beginning of the summer

marinas. In addition, members can receive repair discounts at these cooperating marinas, as well as transient fee discounts up to 25 percent.

boating season, but have inched their way up as the season

For more information about BoatUS membership, call

continues. The higher prices haven’t stopped people from

800-395-2628 or visit www.BoatUS.com.

boating, but they have caused boaters to seek ways to save on higher fuel prices.

MICHIGAN INDUSTRY ON FULL THROTTLE this summer,” said MBIA President John Ropp. “There’s a renewed positivity state-wide and measurable growth in our industry—it’s great to see.” he said.

Michigan ranks third nationally in boating registrations with more than 949,000, according to the Michigan Secretary of State. With more than 11,000 lakes and 3,288 miles of coastline, Michigan has the longest freshwater coastline in the U.S. Those looking to access the more than 700 water access sites in the state can find information on boatmichigan.org or from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

The marine industry in Michigan is on full throttle following

Coming September 20 to 23, MBIA will produce the Boating

down years in 2008-2010. Last year, for example, marine

& Outdoor Festival at Lake St. Clair Metropark. The Boating

expenditures in Michigan increased nearly 30 percent

& Outdoor Festival features hundreds of boats up to 60 feet

compared to 2010. That trend is expected to continue in

in length on display and for sale. More information on

2012, according to the Michigan Boating Industries

exhibiting and promotions is available on the show Web

Association (MBIA).

site: www.boatingandoutdoorfest.com.

“We’ve heard a lot of optimistic news coming from marinas on boating activity and from dealers who are selling boats

greatlakesboating.com | 39

Fishing

20,000 FISH DIE AT MISSOURI LAKE T. Lawrence, GLFC

Conservation (MDC) is investigating what may have caused these fish to die.

It is believed that the heat and drought may have played a major role in the fish kill at Lake Contrary. High water temperatures and drought cause low dissolved oxygen levels, causing the fish to die.

If there is a silver lining in this report, it is that most of the fish that died were invasive Asian carp, according to MDC Northwest Regional Fisheries Supervisor Scott Ryan. He added, “The lake’s been experiencing warmer waters and temperatures and depressed oxygen for the last

More than 20,000 fish died this past August at Lake Contrary

several weeks.”

near St. Joseph, Mo., and the Missouri Department of

IDNR URGES CAUTION WHEN FISHING Anglers fishing at Illinois Department of Natural Resources

In addition to urging caution, IDNR is asking the public to help

(IDNR) parks and those fishing on the state’s lakes and rivers

minimize fish kills by keeping pollutants out of surface waters.

are encouraged to use caution and extra care due to drought

The IDNR asks the public to avoid chemical applications

conditions in the state. Both instate and out-of-state visitors

on lawns when possible and encourages private property

are finding in difficult to navigate the state’s lakes and rivers.

owners living near rivers and on lakes to walk their properties

Boaters are calling IDNR to report that in rivers and lakes

to be sure nothing is or can enter the water.

where they previously were able to navigate in the past, they

Illinois residents boating and fishing at IDNR-managed sites

are now becoming stranded because of the shallow water,

are encouraged to check with the specific IDNR park office

said Rafael Guttierrez, IDNR Conservation Police Chief.

for information on current conditions.

COLLEGIANS INTRODUCED TO FISHING INDUSTRY Pure Fishing® and the

“This is an exciting opportunity for graduates that have

Association of Collegiate

shown a passion for the industry, as well as excelling in

Anglers (ACA) have entered

their studies,” said Andrew Marks, marketing director for

into a strategic partnership

Pure Fishing.

to identify college anglers looking to enter the fishing industry. This partnership is designed to support their passion and knowledge for the sport, as well as recognizing and developing the next wave of industry leaders.

Wade Middleton, one of the founders of the ACA, said, “I’m excited about reaching this major milestone in college fishing with our partners at Pure Fishing. Since starting the ACA, our programs and participation have grown, and it is very satisfying to see people within the industry come to us to help

Pure Fishing, Inc., a provider of fishing tackle, lures, rods

fill key roles within the business side

and reels, has a summer intern program and is continuously

of our sport. Companies will find very

searching for industry talent. As part of its partnership with

talented young men and women who are

ACA, Pure Fishing will be sending out communications

passionate about the outdoors, and now

to college anglers regarding open positions, summer

students have a

internships and other potential work-related opportunities,

direct link to employment opportunities

along with posting them on their Web site.

within the business as well.”

40 GLB | Sept/Oct 12

www.purefishing.com

KANSAS LAKE EMPTIED OF WATER AND FISH Kingman State Fishing Lake, a popular state fi shing lake in

of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will refill the lake and eventually

south-central Kansas, will soon be emptied of water and fish,

restock it with bluegill, northern pike, largemouth bass and

according to the state Dept. of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism.

channel catfish.

State wildlife biologists have determined that problematic

This isn’t the first time the state has rehabilitated Kingman

species, such as the invasive white perch, have crowded out

Lake, but fi sheries biologist Jeff Koch says this time the

more desirable sport fish at the site.

public won’t be allowed to salvage any of the doomed fish.

That’s so people don’t mistakenly take white perch and

To rectify the situation, the 144-acre lake will be drained and

introduce them elsewhere.

all of the fish will be poisoned and left to die. The Department

PLANS TO REDUCE SALMON STOCKING GLFC

salmon, reached a record low in 2011, according to surveys by the U.S. Geological Survey.

Major highlights of the plan the committee has proposed include the following: • Wisconsin would reduce chinook salmon stocking 37.8 percent next year and cut plants of coho salmon, brown, rainbow and lake trout by 10 percent beginning in 2014.

• In Michigan, stocking of chinook would be reduced by 66.8 percent.

• Illinois and Indiana, would reduce chinook stocking by

A tentative plan from the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission calls for a significant reduction of salmon stocking in Lake Michigan in the next two years in order to achieve a better balance of predator and forage fi sh in the big lake and

8 percent and 11 percent respectively.

• Lakewide chinook stocking would be reduced to 1.7 million in 2013 from 3.3 million in 2012.

prevent a crash of any sector of the population. Recent

The stocking numbers (2012 and 2013 plans) for the states

studies have shown a declining biomass of alewives and

would be: Wisconsin 1.16 million and 723,000; Michigan 1.69

other forage fish in Lake Michigan. The alewife, considered

million and 560,000; Illinois 250,000 and 230,000; and Indiana

the most important food source for the lake’s trout and

225,000 and 200,000. jsonline.com/sports/outdoors

FINAL DATES SET FOR FISHING TOURNAMENTS The final two dates for the Morristown Marine Team Trail

The Team of the Year (TOY) Classic will be held at Douglas

Invitational and Skeeter/Yamaha Elite Series Fishing

Lake on Nov. 3 and at Cherokee Lake on Nov. 4, subject to

Tournaments are now set for September and October, with the

changes in the schedule.

end of the year TOY Classic scheduled for the first weekend in November. For the first time, the invitational has been hosting a Northern and Southern Division, allowing anglers to visit and fish two pristine lakes.

The Northern Division Skeeter/Yamaha Elite Series Fishing Tournament will be held Sept. 23 to 24 at Cherokee Lake at

Entry fees of $110 per tournament can be paid the morning of the event, which runs from “safe light” until 3:00 p.m.

Each tournament will pay one place for every six boats entered, with a $3,000 fi rst place prize guaranteed for each tournament. boats@morristownmarine.com // 423-587-5555

the Boat Launch Road in Morristown, Tenn. The Southern Division Tournament will take place at Douglas Lake on Oct. 13 to 14 at the Point Marina.

greatlakesboating.com | 41

Marinas

ROGERS CITY MARINA REPORTS UPTICK IN FISHING This year, 45 boaters have rented slips compared to 30 last year, according to Roger Wenzel, harbor master. He added that tieups by visiting boaters and launch fees have also increased this year.

“A lot of people are fishing here this year who haven’t been in the last few years,” Wenzel told a harbor committee advisory meeting on August 14. He noted that weather can have an affect on fi shing and marina usage, but said the good customer service being offered by the marina’s dockhands has also played a part in the better numbers.

Although the marina is seeing more customers this year Rogers City Marina in Rogers City, Mich., has seen a surge in the number of boaters using its facilities due to good weather and good fi shing, according to an Aug. 15 story in the Alpena News.

than last, its finances are “not great,” said Mark Slown, city manager. It will take more than one season to bring the marina’s finances to the point where the city can say they are starting to look better, said Slown.

QUINCY (ILL.) MARINA TO GET REPLACEMENT DOCKS Art Keller Marina in Qunicy, Ill., will get new docks as part of a

The board said the project would be funded by issuing a

$340,000 modernization project planned for the marina during

$200,000 alternate revenue bond, with the balance of the

the next year.

funds coming from the Riverfront Development Fund and

The Quincy Park District Board of Commissioners, which oversees the marina, said the major focus of the project would involve replacing the current E and F docks with a

marina cash reserves. There is currently $87,000 in the Riverfront Development Fund and $169,000 in the marina cash reserves account.

single 22-slip dock. The new dock would feature 25-foot by

The project timeline calls for the issuance of the revenue

10-foot slips, which are the most needed size at the marina.

bond in early 2013, followed by the bidding out of the project

In addition to the new docks, the modernization effort would include a new shoreside boat ramp to make the docks ADA compliant.

in April 2013. Construction of the new dock slips is expected to begin the summer of 2013 and be completed by August, when the marina will begin renting the new slips.

FRANKFORT VILLAGE MARINA EXPANDS The Village of Frankfort (N.Y.) signed a contract on July 12

popular Frankfort Marina and provide a boost to local

with the Mohawk Valley Regional Economic Development

businesses,” said Bjong Wolf Leigh, President of SUNY IT

Authority to expand the Frankfort Marina. It is proceeding

and co-chair MVREDC.

with the first stages of the project thanks in large part to a $113,812 grant received from Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s Regional Council Initiative.

The project will expand the marina’s recreational opportunities to include campsites, recreational walking trails, improved fishing access and a kayak/canoe boat launch ramp. The additional recreational resources are expected to increase visitors to the area and generate economic activity for local businesses and the Mohawk Valley region.

“The expansion will create even more recreational opportunities for community residents and visitors to the

42 GLB | Sept/Oct 12

To expand the marina, the village will purchase and develop 11 acres of underutilized land adjacent to the facility. The village is expected to begin construction of walking trails, campsites and boat launch ramps sometime this fall.

Frank Moracco, mayor of Frankfort, said the expanded marina will be a great boost for local businesses. “The Frankfort Marina is an economic resource for the community, providing a critical stopping point for boaters cruising the canal and hosting popular community events and festivals,” said Moracco.

ERIE BASIN MARINA INSTALLS NEW BOARDWALK The city of Buffalo, N.Y., which manages the East Basin

“The Erie Basin Marina is one of Buffalo’s favorite

Marina, has recently completed a new observation

summertime destinations and continues to grow in

boardwalk at the facility. Originally proposed in 2007,

popularity,” said Byron Brown, Buffalo’s mayor. “With

the new boardwalk will give visitors an opportunity to sit,

a number of new city-funded improvements, including

stand, and see Emerald Beach and the boats in the marina.

the $400,000 boardwalk, new security gates installed

The boardwalk was fabricated off-site, installation began during the last weeks of July and the total cost was $400,000.

for the safety of boaters, and new handicap accessible restrooms, we expect the Erie Basin Marina’s popularity as a destination to soar even higher.”

MARINALIFE HOSTS ANNUAL BEST MARINAS CONTEST For the third year,

community together, and each year the Best Marinas Contest

Marinalife is hosting its

gives boaters a chance to vote for their favorite marina.

annual Best Marinas Contest. Marinalife members and boaters are invited to vote for the Best Transient Marina and the marina with the Best Customer Service by visiting

For two years in a row, Nantucket Boat Basin in Nantucket, Mass., was voted as the Best Transient Marina, having tied for this honor last year with Twin Dolphin Marina, Bradenton, Fla. Harbour Town Yacht Basin in Hilton Head, S.C., won the Best Customer Service award. This year’s winning marinas will be featured in the winter 2012-2013 issue of Marinalife Magazine and will receive a marketing package valued at $2,000.

marinalife.com/marinacontest. Online voting will run

There are more than 8,600 marinas in the Marinalife

through Oct. 31, 2012.

database that are all eligible to be selected as 2012 Best

The annual Best Marinas Contest is a way for Marinalife to engage members, while also recognizing marinas that

Marinas. These marinas cover the cruising areas of the U.S., Canada, Bahamas, Caribbean, and Central America.

contribute to positive boating experiences throughout the

The contest is yet another way that Marinalife connects the

season. The mission of Marinalife is to bring the boating

active boater with marinas and cruising services.

ROCHESTER MARINA WILL ADD 210 SLIPS Southpoint Marina, located at Irondequoit Bay, Rochester, N.Y., plans to complete the second phase of a master expansion plan in the summer of 2013. This phase of the project includes adding 212 more boat slips, a swimming pool, along with a new Cabana Club House.

It is the only marina in Monroe County with calm and deep waters as a result of a 2010 dredging project that dredged the channel to a depth of 7 to 10 feet. To fi nd out details about water depth, visit www.southpointmarina.com and click on the “water depths” link.

Southpointt Marina can accommodate boats from 16 feet to 47 feet at its wet slips. All slips include free power, running water, free Wi-Fi access to the Internet and access to clean bathrooms, showers, and safe, lighted free parking. southpointmarina.com

greatlakesboating.com | 43

National

HANDBOOKS AVAILABLE IN E-BOOK FORMAT Official boating handbooks,

An added benefit of providing boating regulations and safety

which summarize state

advice in an e-book format is that some states can offer

boating regulations and

additional information such as pump-out station locations,

safety information, are now

sunrise/sunset charts, tide tables, and fish identification facts.

available for most states as e-books. These statespecific handbooks, which are published by Kalkomey, parent company of Boat Ed® and www.boated.com, are available for a variety

Boat Ed’s e-books are official publications developed for the state agency responsible for boating safety education. They are available for download on an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iBooks and on a computer with iTunes. In addition, Boat Ed’s e-books are available for the Kindle and Nook devices and apps.

of e-readers.

kalkomey.com

BOAT THEFT STATISTICS The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) recently

Manufacturing (196), Alumacraft Boat Company (148) and

released a report that examines watercraft reported stolen

Bayliner Marine (129).

in the U.S. between January 1 and December 31, 2011.

There were 6,070 watercraft thefts reported during the period, which represents a nine percent decrease from the 6,663

NICB recommends the following tips to help protect your watercraft from theft:

thefts reported in 2010.

• When you dock it, lock it and secure it to the dock with a steel cable

Florida led the states with the most thefts (1,322) followed

• Remove expensive equipment when not in use

by California (550), Texas (437), Washington (224) and North Carolina (205). One state—Hawaii—did not have a single

• Chain and lock detachable motors to the boat

reported boat theft in 2011.

• Do not leave title or registration papers in the craft

The top five boat types that recorded the most thefts were led

• Disable the craft by shutting fuel lines or removing batteries

by the “Jet Ski” category (1,219) followed by runabout (992), utility (437), cruiser (255) and sailboat (60).

• Use a trailer hitch lock after parking a boat on its trailer

The top five manufacturers in watercraft thefts were: Yamaha

• Install a kill switch in the ignition system.

(537), Bombardier Corporation (522), Kawasaki Motors

nicb.org

NMMA DISTRIBUTES E15 WARNING LABELS The National Marine

Agency recently approved a plan submitted by the ethanol

Manufacturers Association

industry that completes the last step in the regulatory

is distributing 100,000 E15

process and allows E15 to enter the marketplace.

warning labels to NMMA member boat manufacturers to place on their boats to alert boaters of the potential dangers of fuel with a high volume of ethanol. The labels will help educate boaters that E15 should not be used in their boats.

Contrary to numerous studies that have shown ethanol to be hazardous to marine engines, the Environmental Protection

44 GLB | Sept/Oct 12

There are serious and well-documented human safety, environmental, and technological concerns associated with ethanol blends of more than 10 percent in recreational boat fuel tanks and engines. Anything above E10 can pose serious problems, including stalling, corrosion leading to oil or fuel leaks, increased emissions and damaged valves, rubber fuel lines and gaskets.

NMMA along with the oil industry, food groups and other stakeholders have continued to oppose the introduction of E15.

NMEA GUIDE OFFERS ADVICE TO BOATERS The National Marine

be cheaper initially than buying from a dealer with trained

Electronics Association

technicians, the overall cost could turn out to be much

(NMEA) has created a

greater for the cheaper electronics because of unanticipated

brochure to educate boaters

repairs, reworking, or replacement later on. Only NMEA-

about the possible hidden

trained technicians can provide the expert advice boaters

costs of purchasing marine

need to ensure proper selection and installation of the

electronics based on price

electronics they purchase. Boaters can also count on the

alone. It’s called “A Guide to

companies that employ these technicians for service and

Boating Electronics: What

warranty support after the sale.

You Should Know When Buying Electronics for Your Boat.”

Get a free copy of the Guide by visiting www.nmea.org or by contacting the NMEA office at 410-975-9425.

The Guide points out that while buying marine electronics from a mass marketer may

WOMEN DRIVING GROWTH A new study by the Recreational Boating & Fishing

Special Report on Fishing and Boating, fishing added a

Foundation and The Outdoor Foundation reveals fishing and

net total of 800,000 new participants, bringing the total of

boating are among the most important ‘gateway’ activities

Americans who fished to 46 million, or 16.2 percent of the

that often lead people, especially youth, to pursue other

population. Females and young children added the most new

recreation experiences. And for the first time in several years,

participants, showing unprecedented interest in this typically

fishing gained more participants than it lost largely due to

male-dominated sport.

women taking up the sport.

The full study is available online at rbff.org.

The study found that fishing remains one of the most popular recreational activities in the country. According to the 2012

EVENT HONORS COAST GUARD HEROES The Coast Guard Foundation, a non-profi t organization

The Weather Channel will also be honored for the impact it

committed to the education, welfare and morale of all Coast

has had highlighting the important and dangerous mission

Guard members and their families, will honor The Weather

of the Coast Guard, which it features in two TV docu-series,

Channel and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and its

“Coast Guard Alaska” and “Coast Guard Florida.”

chairman, Robert D. Somerville, on Oct. 11 in New York City at the 32nd Annual Salute to the United States Coast Guard. The event pays tribute to United States Coast Guard heroes who risk their lives to save others.

The Foundation provides higher education grants to enlisted personnel, reservists and their children, higher education financial support for families of Coast Guard members lost in the line of duty, financial relief to

For more than 25 years, American Bureau of Shipping has

Coast Guard families who have lost

been a strong supporter of the Foundation and its mission.

possessions in natural disasters,

More recently, under the leadership of Robert Somerville,

and support for morale programs,

ABS has supported the sailing program at the Coast Guard

including funding recreation, exercise

Academy, scholarship programs for enlisted members, and

and family-oriented facilities.

special projects that benefi t Coast Guard members and

coastguardfoundation.org // 212-245-6570

their families.

greatlakesboating.com | 45

Sailing

MOUNT GAY RUM ROUND BARBADOS RACE BIM Media Group, Barbados

The Mount Gay Rum Round

The perpetual Al Rapier trophy now joins the other trophies

Barbados Race will be held

awarded to record-breaking yachts competing in this race.

at the Barbados Cruising Club from Jan. 18 to 22, 2013. The optional Two Restaurants warm-up race will be held on Jan. 19.

A new trophy, the Rapier

• The Errol Barrow Classic Yacht Trophy • The Barbados Tourism Authority Superyacht Trophypresented to a record-breaking monohull yacht • The Mount Gay Rum Multihull Trophy • The Barbados Cruising Club Double-Handed Trophy

Trophy, will be awarded to a yacht with a current CSA

• The Andrew Burke Single-Handed Trophy

handicap to celebrate the

• The Mount Gay Rum Caribbean Challenge Shield presented to the fastest regional yacht.

best-corrected time for the circumnavigation of the island.

• The Coca Cola Cup - presented to the fastest Barbadian yacht.

This trophy celebrates the innovative approach that Al Rapier of Trinidad applied to measurement handicapping of yachts

As always, any yacht breaking an existing Round Barbados

in the Caribbean. His approach has enabled yachts to race

Record on January 21 will win the skipper’s weight in Mount

throughout the region using a measurement system that is

Gay Rum Extra Old.

not only fair but allows them to be measured without being hauled out of the water.

MELGES 32S TO JOIN ROLEX REGATTA Things will be different at the St. Thomas Yacht Club’s

first day’s “Harbor Races” from the club to Charlotte Amalie

www.rolexcupregatta.com International Rolex Regatta in

Harbor and back, testing everyone’s focus; the second

2013. First of all, it will happen one week earlier than normal—

day’s “Island Race,” testing navigational nerve by sending

March 22 through March 24—to accommodate holistic shifts

competitors short tacking the length of St. John’s south

on the Caribbean regatta calendar that have been planned

shore and back; and the final day’s “Sound Race,” testing

jointly by various event organizers to give sailors a better flow

sailors’ determination on complex courses around the cays

to their spring racing vacations in the islands. Second, it will

of Pillsbury Sound.

be the International Rolex Regatta’s 40th Anniversary. And third, the Melges 32 class has made the event a destination for its new three-event Caribbean series in 2013.

For handicap (IRC and CSA), One-Design and Beach Cat

For the IC-24 class, there are up to 18 windward/leeward races held over Saturday and Sunday to replace the longer races that the other boats sail. Like the IC-24s, a one-design class can be established with a minimum of six boats.

classes, the International Rolex Regatta offers a variety of

rolexcupregatta.com

courses configured to test a sailor’s skills. Included are the

31ST ANNUAL INTERLINE REGATTA The Moorings-Tortola will

Interline Regatta caters equally to the competitive spirit and

host its Annual Interline

those who want to enjoy the daily pace of “island time.” So,

Regatta from Oct. 9 to 18

whether you’re in it for the structured racing, supporting your

for airline employees and

favorite airline, or making the most of the ideal opportunity

their friends and families.

to discover the British Virgin Islands, there’s something

Entrants will spend this global nine-day gathering sailing the waters of the British Virgin Islands. The Moorings

46 GLB | Sept/Oct 12

for everyone. moorings.com/vacation-options/regattas

2012 SANTA MARIA CUP CANCELLED The Eastport Yacht Club (EYC) in Annapolis, Md., has joined

money/sponsorship constraints on the top teams in Women’s

yacht clubs across the nation and around the world in making

Match Racing. EYC had hoped to be able to overcome these

a tough call for a 2012 non-Olympic event. The Santa Maria

challenges, but it has become apparent that September 2012

Cup Women’s Match Racing Championship has been an

is too soon after the Olympics to secure enough high-ranking

outstanding week of racing on Chesapeake Bay every year

competitors to remain a Grade 1 event this year. Thus, like

since 1991.

many other Women’s Match Racing events worldwide, Santa

The 2012 Santa Maria Cup has fallen victim to three uncontrollable factors that have caused the cancellation

Maria Cup 2012 has been cancelled and EYC will begin planning Santa Maria Cup 2013.

of Women’s Match Racing events across the U.S. and

eastportyc.org

throughout the world: the struggling world economy, the intense schedule and cost to compete for an Olympic berth, and the announcement that Women’s Match Racing will not be an Olympic event in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Each of these factors has put time and

CARIBBEAN 1500 AND ARC BAHAMAS Nov. 4 marks the start of the annual Caribbean 1500. The

Some entrants will choose to enjoy fun competition in the

rally is a cruise in company to either Nanny Cay Marina on

Cruising Division with World Cruising Club handicaps, while

Tortola, British Virgin Islands, or to Green Turtle Cay in Abaco,

others will opt to sail in the non-competitive Open Division.

Bahamas. With 50 to 70 boats starting together, the sailing

All types of boats between 27 and 60 feet are welcome.

adventure begins following a week of shore-based activities in Hampton, Va.

The Caribbean 1500 has two fleets departing from Hampton, Va., starting off Fort Monroe. The main fleet will sail to Nanny

The diverse fleet will include ralliers from the United States,

Cay Marina on Tortola, BVI, about 1500NM, and the ARC

Canada and beyond. Double-handing couples, families with

Bahamas fleet will sail approximately 975NM to Green Turtle

children, serious and not-so-serious racing crews, and even

Cay in Abaco, Bahamas.

pets will participate.

worldcruising.coma

HALL OF FAME 2012 INDUCTEES The National Sailing Center & Hall of Fame (NSHOF) of

Race as well as the 2010 Trophée Jules Verne; yacht designer

Annapolis, Md., has announced the nine sailors who will

Bruce Kirby; 1988 Soling Olympic medalist, winning Volvo

be inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame in 2012.

Ocean Race skipper and America’s Cup tactician John

Following the nomination period this spring, a selection

Kostecki; and three-time Star Olympic medalist and two-time

committee reviewed the nominations.

World Champion Mark Reynolds.

Inductees are American citizens, 45 years of age and older,

National Sailing Hall of Fame 2012 Posthumous Inductees

who contributed to the growth and development of the

are: Olympic medalist Peter Barrett; America’s Cup competitor

sport in the U.S. in the categories of Sailing, Technical/

and journalist Bob Bavier;

Design and Contributor (coach, administrator, sailing

rules expert Gregg Bemis;

media). Nominations of non-citizens were considered if

yacht designer and Medal

they infl uenced the sport in the U.S., and posthumous

of Freedom winner Rod

nominations were also accepted.

Stephens; and founder

The 2012 inductees will be honored on Oct. 14, during an invitation-only ceremony at Southern Yacht Club (New Orleans, La.).

National Sailing Hall of Fame 2012 Inductees include:

and first commodore of the New York Yacht Club John Cox Stevens. nshof.org

navigator Stan Honey, winner of the 2006 Volvo Ocean

greatlakesboating.com | 47

NEW PRODUCTS

‘FISH INVISIBLE’ AND LEAVE NO TRACE® Formulated with all organic compounds, No Trace ® quickly and naturally eliminates the artificial odors that repel fish of all species. Apply the clean, unscented sanitizer directly to your hands to terminate odor molecules, including smoke, gas, bug spray, other synthetic contaminants, and even certain offputting human pheromones. Go from smelly and fishless to clean, invisible and successful.

It’s also totally safe for fi sheries. Any No Trace that enters the water has absolutely zero impact—it’s sort of the other meaning behind the name. $9.95 // rippinlips.net

WASHING TOOL Swobbit® has introduced a microfiber washing tool specially designed to clean smooth fiberglass, plastic enclosures and acrylic without marring the surfaces.

The tool has hundreds of microfi ber strands that hold more soapy water than other washing tools to clean surfaces faster and more efficiently. It is adapted to the Swobbit swivel plate that attaches to the patented Swobbit Perfect Pole. $29.95 // 203-453-3090 // swobbit.com

TRUMPET HORN UPGRADES Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products’ line of single- and dualtrumpet horns are enhanced with moisture-blocking resins and lubricants to help combat corrosion.

The deluxe stainless steel Single Trumpet horn is 16.5 inches long with a 120 db rating, while the Shorty model measures 13.5 inches long with a 114 db rating. The deluxe stainless steel Dual Trumpet has a 125 db rating and is 18.5 inches long, and the Shorty model, rated at 120 db, measures 16 inches long.

Every horn comes pre-wired for simple installation and fi ts existing hole patterns for upgrade projects.

From $107.85 // 866 -724-6488 // schmittsteering.com

48 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

TOUCHLESS FLUSH FlushSense® makes toilet operation sanitary by letting users operate the head without touching any panel or push-button.

Easy to use, an object or hand has to be within two inches proximity of the switch in order to start a flush cycle.

The control features a reliable electronic design, draws low power and requires only modular wiring.

Its normal fl ush cycle provides maximum effi ciency with minimal water use. An optional multifunction panel offers water-saver, water-only and empty-only functions. Raritan’s 12- and 24-V DC Marine Elegance, Atlantes Freedom, SeaEra and other marine toilets can be easily upgraded with FlushSense. $375.90 // 856 -825-4900 // raritaneng.com

LEAD CORE FISHING LINE The Sufix 832® Advanced Lead Core is the first lead core fishing line to combine both Dyneema® and GORE® performance fibers.

When compared to other lead core lines, Sufix 832 Advanced Lead Core dives 30 percent deeper and is 70 percent stronger and infinitely more sensitive.

With 10 color sequences, anglers can get baits to the preferred depth with ease, and with three times the abrasion resistance, underwater obstacles can’t wear this lead core down.

Sufix 832 Advanced Lead Core is available in 12- and 18-pound test in 100- and 200-yard spools.

Suggested retail price: $29.99 (100 yd.); $49.99 (200 yd.) // 888-468-5873 // rapala.com

GAGE DECK-BOSS BIBS The Deck-Boss Bib Pant is made from 10,000mm three-ply waterproof nylon fabric that seals out rain and spray, yet breathes to keep fi shermen and mariners from overheating during strenuous activity. A high-cut bib design provides ample coverage, while simple suspender hook-ups make it easy to get geared up. Additional features include neoprene and Velcro leg closures to keep moisture out, a secure inside chest pocket and a spacious thigh cargo pocket.

The bib is available in solid black or red with black thigh pocket/ seat in sizes from XS to 5XL at authorized Grundens dealers throughout North America. $169.00 (sizes 3XL-5XL slightly higher) // 800 -323-7327 // grundens.com

greatlakesboating.com | 49

BOAT CARE & FEEDING

LUBRICATING OIL Max-Lube lubricating oil works on everything from a boat’s steering cables to all types of chains and gears. Equally effective on ferrous or non-ferrous metals, it can also be used on fishing reels, tools and camping gear.

This proprietary synthetic fi lm delivers superior corrosion protection. It remains very stable at extreme temperatures and will flow at up to -40° C. Its formula reduces friction and can lower operating temperatures by 10 to 20 percent.

Its 3-fluid ounce container has a built-in applicator tip. $9.99 // 510 -732-9229 // davisnet.com

SPRAY WAX Meguiar’s® Flagship Ultimate Quik Wax™ uses hydrophobic polymer technology to create spectacular shine, lasting UV protection and water beading that lasts for weeks.

The wax chemistry used in this formulation allows the user to wax anywhere, even in full sun. It sprays on fast and wipes off effortlessly without leaving behind a white residue.

Flagship Ultimate Quik Wax™ is compatible with all Meguiar’s marine compounds, polishes and waxes and can be found at major retailers and suppliers nationwide. $16.49 // 800 -347-5700 // meguiars.com

VOLT-SEEKER The Volt-Seeker Battery Combiner efficiently distributes charging power to all onboard batteries when the engines are running, and when the engines are shut down, automatically isolates the start battery from other batteries.

The easy-to-install, weatherproof Volt-Seeker also features a unique Emergency Start Switch, conveniently located near the controls. If the start battery fails to start the engine, the operator engages the emergency switch and is able to draw on all the batteries to help start it. Works with all engine and battery configurations, and is essential whenever an inverter is in use. $240, $295 // 423-638-2042 // wellsmarinetech.com

50 GLB | Sept /Oc t 12

LINE CUTTER The Sea Saber is an efficient and cost-effective tool to clear entangled rope, netting and kelp before they do damage to the propeller shaft and drive train. Its one-piece design ensures noise- and maintenance-free operation. The cutters are produced in Canada from high-grade 316 stainless steel, and they will never corrode.

The kits include all necessary hardware for installation and are available to fi t most standard propeller shaft diameters from .75 inch to 4.5 inches in SAE sizes and 20mm to 70mm metric sizes.

From $202 // 250 -472-8495 // seasaber.com

LITHIUM BATTERY Torqeedo’s Power 26-104 Li NMC battery provides protection against short circuits, overloads, deep discharge and wrong polarity. Measuring 22.7” L x 10” W x 8.6” H and weighing 55 pounds, it delivers 2,685 watt-hours.

This battery features a steel cylinder cell housing with four hardware safety mechanisms, each with 336 cells. It also features an electronic battery management system.

The Power 26-104 can be submerged underwater for 30 minutes unharmed. In case of flooding, the voltage is shut off from the poles to prevent damage. $2,599 // 815-444-8806 // torqeedo.com/us

DECKING GLOWS IN THE DARK The new PlasDECK Azure Series provides the ability to see the deck after dark. New phosphorescent technology is incorporated into the caulk lines in the material. After it is charged by normal daylight, the lines glow a soft azure blue from dusk to dawn. This brings a new level of comfort, security and safety after dark.

PlasDECK Azure is currently available only in pre-made mats based on templates. Contact company for a quote.

800 -320 -1841 // plasteak.com

greatlakesboating.com | 51

MARINE MART

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES 1991 56’ Ocean: 3 staterooms w/full baths, salon seats 12. Excellent exec/ entertainment yacht. Many recent upgrades. Great Lakes vessel, Ontario. $269,000. Call 416-571-8147; email

POWERBOATS Classic 40 Ft. Wooden Cris Craft show winner: Same owner past 24 years. Twin engines. Never in salt water. Call 815-223-7878.

chris@chrisrichie.com. (See photo below)

(See photo below)

Advertiser Ad i Index I d 1,000 Islands Chicago Harbors/Westrec

MISCELLANEOUS 1998 400 Sea Ray S/B: Mint, loaded, twin cats with only 500 hours. 3 state L/O. New canvas, interior and upholstery. Best one on Lake Ontario. $129,900 (fi rm) Contact Gerry at 905-681-7555 (days) or 905-333-9024 (evenings).

1987 Trojan 10.8 Meter Convertible: F/water boat /TW 454s w/ gen., carpet & frig new. Always stored inside. $44,900. Call 269-927-4471

NEW BUFFALO MICHIGAN HARBOR 41’ BOAT SLIP Picnic table, storage, electricity, parking, pool, hot tub, clubhouse.

Priced to sell at $24,200.

Call Beth 773-255-3534.

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A MARINA? CONTACT: Eddy A. Dingman, CNS 847-987-6626 COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL, NRT

NATIONAL GOLF AND MARINA PROPERTIES GROUP Visit: http://golfcourseandmarinasales.com

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

CONTACT: Rob Lee Maritime boattransport@comcast.net.

508-758-9409

FREE ADS GOT A BOAT TO SELL?

F

Complimentary 25-word classified boat advertisements and PHOTO in the Nov./Dec. 2012 issue.

(NO STRINGS ATTACHED!)

Email your text-only advertisement to:

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

S

S

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

Free ads will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Advertisements for the Nov./Dec. 2012 issue must be received by Oct. 5, 2012.

52 GLB| Sept/Oct 12

Cruisers Yachts

1 56 5

Direct Boat Insurance

21

Essex Credit

BC

Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show 27

or 574-551-0381. (See photo below)

F

Chicago Yacht Yard

26

North Point Marina North Port Bay Boat Yard

Princecraft Progressive Insurance Ski Safe/Sea Safe Spring Brook Marina Windy City Yacht Brokerage

3 55 2 IFC 15 IBC 54

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 11-14

SEPTEMBER 28-30

Annapolis City Dock/Harbor Annapolis

SEPTEMBER 7-9

usboat.com/us-powerboat-show/home

Ohio River Levee/Front & Greene streets Marietta

PROGRESSIVE I NSURANCE TAMPA B OAT S HOW Tampa Convention Center Tampa tampaboatshow.com

SEPTEMBER 28-30

EMERALD C OAST B OAT S HOW Emerald Coast Convention Center Fort Walton Beach

U NITED S TATES POWERBOAT S HOW

O HIO R IVER S TERNWHEEL FESTIVAL

MICHIGAN

ohioriversternwheelfestival.org

SEPTEMBER 7-8

A NTIQUE & C LASSIC B OAT S HOW

SEPTEMBER 12-16

Black River/St. Clair River Port Huron

PROGRESSIVE I NSURANCE N ORTH A MERICAN I N -WATER B OAT S HOW

michacbs.com

Cedar Point

emeraldcoastboatshow.com

OCTOBER 25-29

FORT L AUDERDALE I NTERNATIONAL B OAT S HOW Six venues Fort Lauderdale

Sandusky SEPTEMBER 20-23 Lake St. Clair Metropark Harrison Twp.

SEPTEMBER 14-16

boatingandoutdoorfest.com

Freshwater Farms of Ohio 2624 US Hwy 68

OCTOBER 11-14

NOVEMBER 8-11

G REAT L AKES L IGHTHOUSE FESTIVAL

Harborside Event Center/City Yacht Basin Fort Myers

cedarpointboatshow.com

B OATING & O UTDOOR FESTIVAL

showmanagement.com

FORT M YERS FALL B OAT S HOW

O HIO FISH & S HRIMP FESTIVAL

Urbana ohiofestivals.net

APLEX Event Center Alpena

WASHINGTON, D.C.

lighthousefestival.org

SEPTEMBER 27-29

MISSOURI

U RBAN WATERFRONTS 2012: THE O NCE AND FUTURE WATERFRONT C ONFERENCE

fortmyersboatshow.com

INDIANA OCTOBER 5-7

I NDIANAPOLIS FALL B OAT & RV S HOW Indiana State Fairgrounds Indianapolis

OHIO

Mayflower Renaissance Washington, D.C.

SEPTEMBER 20-23

ACBS I NTERNATIONAL B OAT S HOW

waterfrontcenter.org

Big Cedar Lodge/Table Rock Lake Kimberling City tablerock2012.com

WISCONSIN SEPTEMBER 1

renfroproductions.com

M ARINA FEST

MARYLAND SEPTEMBER 25-30

TRAWLER FEST U NIVERSITY/ B OAT S HOW Baltimore Inner Harbor Marine Center Baltimore trawlerfest.com

Sister Bay Marina Sister Bay

NEW YORK SEPTEMBER 7-9

N IAGARA FRONTIER A NTIQUE C LASSIC B OAT S HOW

sisterbaytourism.com AND

SEPTEMBER 28-30

Buffalo Launch Club Grand Island

G ENEVA L AKES A NTIQUE C LASSIC B OAT S HOW

oldboatsbuffalo.org

Abbey Resort

AND

Fontana OCTOBER 4-8

U NITED S TATES SAILBOAT S HOW Annapolis City Dock/Harbor Annapolis usboat.com/ussailboat-show/home

SEPTEMBER 7-9

genevalakesboatshow.com

CNY FALL B OAT S HOW New York State Fairgrounds Syracuse cnyboatshow.com

greatlakesboating.com | 53

EVENTS CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER