34 Front Runner 43 Cat A matter of balance. By Ken Kreisler
38 An Artful Journey
Fulfilling dreams and cultivating creativity through America’s Great Loop. By
Heather Steinberger
42 Port of Call: Goderich, ON Canada’s Prettiest Town: Dubbed Canada’s prettiest settlement by Queen Victoria herself, the delightful community of Goderich, Ontario, boasts a colorful history and a particularly rich maritime heritage. By
Craig Ritchie
ON THE COVER
The second model in Monterey’s new Elite center console series, the Elite 27 OB boasts a “keep it simple” design philosophy while not lacking in state-of-the-art features, including a nearly automotive starboard-side captain seat on the centerline helm, a head concealed in the console and a responsive ride.
DEPARTMENTS
From the Helm 6
Dock Box 8
Calendar 10
Scuttle 12
Great Gear 21
Marine Maintenance 22
Tech Deck 24
Life on the Loop 25
Boat Spotlights: Grady-White, Regal, Scout, Sea Ray 26
Lakeshore Life: Holland, MI 48
Marina Watch: Yacht Basin Marina 50
Marine Marketplace 53
Classifieds 63
Classic Craft 64
1
1. Boat insurance isn’t just for accidents
2. Accidents can happen to anyone
With comprehensive coverage, you’ll also be protected nancially for theft, vandalism, and unexpected events like storms if you need repairs or replacements due to damage.
3. Boat insurance can cover medical payments
When accidents happen, boat insurance offers liability coverage for damages or injuries you cause while boating, up to speci ed limits. It can also cover lawsuit costs if you’re sued.
Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you’re in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
ve things you should know about boat insurance
Are you ready to embark on your next on-water adventure? Before you set sail, here are ve things to know about boat insurance.
4. Most lenders require boat insurance
If you nanced your boat, you’ll likely need boat insurance since most lenders require boat insurance to protect their investment. Additionally, some marinas or municipalities require proof of insurance for docking.
5. Progressive offers specialized boat coverages
Ever worry about getting stuck on the water?
Progressive’s Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage** can help. It’s an additional coverage that steps in if your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, paying for on-water towing, jump starts, soft ungroundings, and fuel delivery. Fuel cost isn’t included.
Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your voyage. Cruise with con dence thanks to Progressive Boat insurance. Because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes. Go to
to learn more.
Back From the Miami Sunshine
I’ve just returned from the exciting 2025 Miami International Boat Show as we close this issue. This is my favorite show to attend because not only do I get to escape Michigan in February to enjoy Florida’s warmth, but I get to check out the coolest new boats hitting the market (p. 14). This year, I was also honored to be on the judging panel for the Miami Innovation Awards, where we were presented so many cool, innovative products in the marine space, from boats to docks and safety gear. It’s really inspiring to see how companies are solving problems, embracing the future and forming new concepts.
In our feature this month, authors James and Jill Iverson discuss their book, “Exploring America’s Great Loop: Artfully Cruising the Rivers and Canals of North America,” which documents their 2021-22 Great Loop adventure (p. 38). The book includes not only photographs of their journey, but also many entries from Jill’s sketchbook. Read the feature to see sketches exclusively shared with Lakeland Boating readers! If you plan on cruising Lake Huron this summer, make sure you add a stop to Goderich, Ontario (p. 42). This port — reportedly dubbed “Canada’s prettiest town” by Queen Victoria — offers visiting boaters turquoise waters, stunning sunsets, a cool historic district, beautiful beaches and natural areas.
Think spring!
Do you have a story idea you’d like to suggest? Email me at kbush@lakelandboating.com to share your ideas.
AREAS MENTIONED IN THIS ISSUE
HEATHER STEINBERGER
Heather is an awardwinning writer/editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 25 years. She grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan and enjoys powerboating, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding with her husband, professional photographer Richard Steinberger, and daughter, Johanna.
Holland, MI p. 48
Yacht Basin Marina p. 50 Goderich, ON p. 42
READ HER STORIES ON P. 28 AND P. 38
KEVIN KOENIG
Kevin is an awardwinning journalist living and working in Greenwich, Connecticut. His many years in the marine industry have helped him live a fulfilling and adventure-laden life thus far.
READ HIS STORIES STARTING ON P. 26
KEN KREISLER
A multi BWI awardwinning journalist, Ken began his nautical career while in high school, spending summers doing odd jobs in the boatyard of a local marina in Brooklyn, New York. He worked his way through undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate academic studies as the skipper of his own six-pack charter boat, and upon completion of his degree work, secured his first job as a writer in the marine industry and never looked back. Ken splits his seasonal time between the New Jersey Shore and West Palm Beach, Florida.
READ HIS STORY ON P. 34
Judges include (from left): Tim Murphy, Ben Stein, Kate Bush, Kim Knudsen, Kelsey Bonham, Gary Reich and Tony Esposito
CANINE CREW
APRIL 2025
VOLUME LXXIX, NO. 4
Heidi
Heidi is a white Swiss shepherd/Akita mix. We rescued her about five years ago. We weren’t sure if she would take to the boating lifestyle that we enjoy but, as it turns out, she loves the water and cruising on our 2005 Formula 34PC. We spend weekends and vacations cruising the beautiful waters of the 1000 Islands region and the St. Lawrence River. Heidi loves to swim and fetch water toys and will leap off the swim platform all day to chase them down, to the delight of everyone in the anchorage. When dockside, Heidi either goes on otter patrol or just sleeps on the dock.
—Brian & Tracy Carr, Clayton, NY
Name Game
We’re always on the lookout for clever and interesting boat names! Send us a short write-up about why you chose your boat name, along with your name, your home city and state, and a high-res photo of your boat (at least 1 MB). Send to KBUSH@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM and put “Name Game” in the subject line.
PUBLISHER
Linda O’Meara
PUBLISHER IN MEMORIUM
Walter “Bing” O’Meara
EDITORIAL STAFF
Editorial Director: Kate Bush
Assistant Editor: Abby Thorpe
CREATIVE STAFF
Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs
CONTRIBUTORS
Jordan Bohonek, Glenn Hayes, Kevin Koenig, Ken Kreisler, Capt. Frank Lanier, Craig Ritchie, Capt. Tom Serio, Heather Steinberger, Mark Walker
BUSINESS STAFF
National Ad Sales: Mark Conway
Regional Ad Sales: Linda O’Meara
Bane
Here’s Bane and his mom chilling on Lake Charlevoix aboard our 2019 Chris-Craft 23 Launch.
—Jim Dobbs
Calling All Canine (and Feline) Crew!
We want to learn about your furry friends onboard! Send a short write-up with your pet’s name and your home city, as well as a high-resolution photo (at least 1 MB) to: KBUSH@LAKELANDBOATING.COM. Please put “Canine/Feline Crew” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!
Lake Lens
We want to see the gorgeous Great Lakes from your point of view! Send a high-resolution photo (at least 1 MB) and a short write-up about that photo to KBUSH@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM. Please put “Lake Lens” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!
� WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!
Email us at KBUSH@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 1555 Sherman Ave., Evanston, IL 60201. Opinions expressed in “Dock Box” are not necessarily those of the Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
Director of Business Development: Joe D’Onofrio
Accounting: Diane Fairchild
EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE
1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610
INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COM LAKELANDBOATING.COM
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201
CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM
SUBSCRIPTIONS
P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-504-8475
O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC
President: Linda O’Meara
Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh
Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2025, by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. / Business/Accounting and Editorial Offices: 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201, 312-276-0610. / Call 847-504-8475 to subscribe. Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 (U.S.).
Annual subscription rates: United States: $24.95 per year; International and Canadian: $39.95 per year, includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. 894095074-RT 0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $6.50+ shipping for U.S. and Canada, only U.S. funds accepted. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices. / POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069. / Lakeland Boating is a registered trademark of O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., Evanston, IL. Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. / Unsolicited work may be submitted at the creator’s own risk. Lakeland Boating assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited material. All submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage. / All published photos are courtesy of the company/ manufacturer, unless otherwise noted.
CALENDAR
MAR 1 – MAY 10
Water/Ways: A Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibit Sheboygan, WI SHEBOYGANMUSEUM.ORG
APRIL 1
Maritime History on Tap Marquette, MI MQTMARITIMEMUSEUM.COM
APRIL 4 – 6
1000 Islands Clayton Spring Boat Show Clayton, NY 1000ISLANDS-CLAYTON.COM/ BOATSHOW
‘Up North’ Lake & Cottage Show Traverse City, MI TCCOTTAGESHOW.COM
APRIL 5
Gitchee Gumee Brewfest Superior, WI GGBREWFEST.COM
APRIL 5 – 6
1 Maple Weekend Ontario MAPLEWEEKEND.CA
APRIL 10 – 13
2 Brown Trout Tournament & Blessing of the Fleet Baileys Harbor, WI FACEBOOK.COM/BAILEYSHARBOR BROWNTROUT
APRIL 11 – 13 Big Boy Toy Show Traverse City, MI BIGBOYTOYSHOW.NET
3 Dairy State Cheese and Beer Festival Kenosha, WI KENOSHABEERFEST.COM
� ADD YOUR EVENT! Email KBUSH@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM to add your event to our Calendar page.
APRIL 19
Charlevoix Easter Egg Hunt Charlevoix, MI VISITCHARLEVOIX.COM/ EASTER-EGG-HUNT
Easter EGGstravaganza Manitowoc, WI VISITMANITOWOC.COM
Spring Wine Fling Kelleys Island, OH KELLEYSISLANDCHAMBER.COM
APRIL 24 – 26
Upper Peninsula Dark Sky Festival Copper Harbor, MI KEWEENAWDARKSKY.COM
APRIL 25 – 27
Progressive Catawba Island Boat Show Port Clinton, OH CATAWBAISLANDBOATSHOW.COM
Former Correct Craft CEO Walter N. Meloon has died at the age of 87. The grandson of Correct Craft’s founder, Meloon served in the family boat business for 52 years, including 18 years as president and CEO.
SCUTTLE
Dometic Launches DG3 Gyro
Dometic has entered the gyrostabilizer market with its brand-new Dometic DG3. The DG3 is specifically designed for the 35- to 41-foot boat market, serving as the first model in this new series.
What makes this gyro innovative is its groundbreaking spin up/down time, which has been reduced by more than 65% compared to competitors, reaching full readiness in just 16 minutes (compared to 50 minutes). The system also fully lowers in just 20 minutes — about 15 times faster than current systems. This means the DG3 minimizes energy consumption and allows boaters to continue their activities — whether boating or fishing — without needing to adjust their plans to accommodate stabilization setup or downtime.
The DG3 also introduces innovations in energy storage and recapture, enabling the battery to recharge efficiently. It also incorporates Dometic’s proprietary, industry-proven Inverted Roller Screw technology for true dynamic control and significantly improved roll reduction performance.
Featuring a slower-spinning flywheel, larger, more robust bearings, patent-pending inner race cooling, parallel path cooling, and a titanium heat exchanger, the DG3 is designed to stay cool and operate reliably. Overall, the DG3 reduces power consumption by an impressive 40% compared to competing solutions.
Dometic has designed the DG3 as an easy “drop-in” replacement for other comparably sized systems available on the market today. Dometic’s DG3 is compatible with 12-, 24- and 48-volt house battery systems.
For more information, visit DOMETIC.COM.
Great Lakes News Boats Must-Have Buzz Events Business
Two Cruise Lines Join Cruise the Great Lakes Marketing Program
Cruise the Great Lakes welcomes two premier cruise lines as its newest members: Victory Cruise Lines and PONANT. Both cruise lines have had ships on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River for several years and have decided to strengthen their commitment to serving the region. They join Pearl Seas Cruises, St. Lawrence Cruise Lines and Viking Cruises as members.
Founded in 2018, Cruise the Great Lakes is the region’s cruise marketing program focused on attracting more passengers. This past December, Cruise the Great Lakes announced that Great Lakes cruises are projected to welcome over 22,000 individual passengers, representing a nearly 10% increase from 2024. It also projects more than 700 port visits planned, up almost 30% from last year.
Victory Cruise Lines announced in 2024 that it would return to the Great Lakes in 2025, bringing its intimate luxury vessels, Victory I and Victory II . PONANT’s striking ships, Le Bellot and Le
Champlain, are also familiar sites around the region. The cruise line has a full 2025 cruising schedule. Cruise the Great Lakes officials announced recently that it anticipates more than $230 million in economic impact across the area in 2025, reflecting a 15% increase from the previous year.
Learn more at CRUISETHEGREATLAKES.COM.
EVENTS
2025 Miami International Boat Show Recap
In February, the Lakeland Boating team traveled down to balmy Miami, Florida, for the 2025 Miami International Boat Show. Below are a few of the new boats that debuted during the show.
Absolute’s Navetta 53 had its North American debut. Notable features of this yacht include an aft terrace cockpit, panoramic views from the primary cabin, a VIP cabin at the bow, a double cabin, and a crew cabin with a private bathroom at the stern.
The Aquila 42 and 46 Coupe had their North American debuts. The new boats feature sleek lines and a standard Hydra Glide Foil System. The boats feature a wide tunnel width, a high bridge deck clearance and will be available with both inboard and outboard propulsion.
Blackfin launched its brand-new 262 Hybrid Bay Series. This new line of boats blends offshore capabilities with inshore experiences.
Beneteau had its world premiere of the Antares 9 and the U.S. debut of the Swift Trawler 54. The Antares 9 is a fun, sporty weekender with a modular aft cockpit and two cabins. The Swift Trawler 54 features a spacious flybridge, six berths, a well-appointed galley with a raised passagemaker dinette, a large salon and an “architectural” flybridge stair.
Highfield Boats unveiled its new ADV7 crossover RIB with fiberglass hull, as well as its 560 VELOX with BRP jet power and a special pink sport 360 RIB for breast cancer awareness. The new ADV7 adventure crossover seats up to eight people, and features a convertible sundeck, an optional picnic table and more.
Hurricane debuted its two new boats at a nighttime party overlooking downtown Miami. The new SunDeck 3200 boasts a lot in its 32-foot package, including a cabin and separate wet head, convertible passenger seat and a spacious cockpit. The 24 Center Console Fishing Boat is a whole new category of boats; from the bow it looks like a deckboat, but is loaded with fishing features aft.
The Prestige F5.7 made her American premiere. This spacious yacht features three staterooms, a flybridge with an opening sunroof and a lateral sliding glass door in the salon that provides access to the deck.
Pursuit debuted its S 328 Sport Center Console. Pursuit took one of its most popular models and completely reinvented it. Highlights include a one-handed settee-to-berth conversion in the class-leading cabin, a hidden head and power provided by twin Yamaha 300 or 350 engines.
Stingray showed off its two new boats, the 259DC and 172DC, as well as a new bright white gelcoat on its entire model line for 2025.
The new 259DC blends comfort, versatility and style, while the 172DC comes with a standard dual windshield, rod holders, four fusion speakers, and so much more.
Tiara had its world premiere of the new 56 LS, featuring expansive fold-down terraces, multiple social zones and tailored aft cockpit configurations for entertaining or fishing.
Pursuit
Stingray
Tiara
Absolute
Blackfin
Beneteau
Highfield
Aquila
Hurricane
Prestige
SCUTTLE
EVENTS
Miami
Innovation Award Winners Announced
NMMA and Boating Writers International (BWI) announced the 12 recipients and three honorable mentions for the 2025 Miami Innovation Awards at the Miami International Boat Show in February. The awards honor manufacturers and suppliers in the marine marketplace that bring new, innovative products to boaters.
Sabre announced that its new Sabre 51 Salon Express, which launches this fall, will feature a new actuated helm step that fully retracts and stows beneath the helm chair box and is controlled with a switch at the helm station.
This year’s judging committee comprised seven BWI members, including Lakeland Boating Editorial Director Kate Bush, along with Tim Murphy (chair), Ben Stein (co-chair), Gary Reich, Kim Knudsen, Tony Esposito and Kelsey Bonham.
“We live in a time of fundamental change in boating — how we store and use energy, how we control our boats, how we collect and send dynamic information, how we draw in younger boaters and those who haven’t tried it yet,” says Murphy. “There are so many new ways to enjoy time on the water, and the 2025 Innovation Awards are showcasing those changes as they happen.”
This year’s category winners are:
• Alternative Propulsion: YANMAR Marine International, E-Saildrive
• Center Console/Walkaround Fishing Boats: SOLACE Boats, SOLACE 37Pilot
• Consumer Electronics, Mobile Applications and Software: Avikus, NeuBoat Dock V2; Honorable Mention: Leopard Catamarans, Leopard Catamarans App with Marine Chat AI
• Personal Watercraft: Yamaha WaterCraft, Yamaha JetBlaster WaveRunner Series
• Tow Boats: MasterCraft Boat Company, XStar
MUST-HAVE
Sunstream Launches Jack-Based LiftBar
Boat lift manufacturer Sunstream
Boat Lifts has “raised the bar in lifting technology” with its brand-new LiftBar universal lifting innovation.
LiftBar is the first boat lift to incorporate a screw jack-based lifting mechanism that is all housed in one tube, delivering high speed, a hidden structure, no sway, increased reliability and enhanced “submergibility.” The lack of cable winders eliminates the need for cable-keepers and prevents tangling. LiftBar can be trickle-charged with 110 volts or solar power, and no underwater AC power means a safer waterfront experience.
Because of its contained design, the lift is submersible, which enables it to be installed out of sight at dock level and provides peace of mind in extreme environments.
Having key components under an air bell cover protects it from flooding and backup power from the battery enables operation even if the dock power is off. The powerful 12-hp system provides speeds multiple times faster than traditional 220V motor lifts with gearboxes, and the inline motor with planetary gears offers a much quieter lifting and lowering experience. The entire lifting mechanism of the LiftBar is hidden within a 6- by 7-inch bar with contained hoses and no external powerpack that needs to sit on the dock.
Available in five sizes, LiftBar can accommodate vessels from 8,000 to 32,000 pounds. It is now available in piling lift, fixed dock and fabricated floating dock (concrete, wood and truss) configurations. Plastic modular dock and freestanding portable lift configurations will be released in the near future.
Visit SUNSTREAMBOATLIFTS.COM for more information.
Blackstone Infrastructure has acquired Safe Harbor Marinas from Sun Communities, Inc. for $5.65 billion. Safe Harbor owns and operates 138 marinas across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Chris-Craft Debuts New Sportster 28 Outboard in Miami
During the 2025 Miami International Boat Show, Chris-Craft debuted the Sportster 28 bowrider in an outboard configuration. The Sportster 28 is the second model in the new Sportster line launched last year, crafted for today’s adventure seekers and watersports enthusiasts.
The Sportster 28 boasts state-of-the-art features such as an intuitive command center with a streamlined dashboard that integrates a custom Chris-Craft interface, refined teak accents and a leather-wrapped stainless steel steering wheel. An innovative pull-down swim step ensures easy water access.
The Sportster 28 offers notable features including an optional hardtop that houses both indirect accent lighting and hidden integrated speakers, a sunpad with a flip-up backrest for ultimate lounging comfort, midship and portside aft compartments, multiple transom storage areas, and a premium audio system with six JL Audio speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer with custom Chris-Craft stainless steel speaker grills.
The Sportster line also includes the Sportster 25 sterndrive and surf, and the Sportster 28 sterndrive. The Sportster 28 surf debuts this spring.
Learn more at CHRISCRAFT.COM.
New Documentary Features Stand Up for Great Lakes
The non-profit charity Stand Up for Great Lakes — whose members have crossed all five Great Lakes on stand-up paddleboards to raise funds and awareness about the lakes — has released a free documentary called “Crossing Ontario.”
The documentary follows paddlers Kwin Morris, Jeff Guy and Joe Lorenz as they battle the smallest of the five Great Lakes, Lake Ontario. It offers an up-close look at the trials the lake presented, along with the personal struggles the paddlers faced during the crossing.
Kwin Morris shares: “Finishing all the crossings was bittersweet but incredibly rewarding. We’ve raised hundreds of thousands of dollars and spread awareness about protecting these waters. These lakes give so much to us, and we’re proud to give back.”
Filmmaker Corey Adkins adds: “We thought Lake Ontario would be simple, but it showed its might and nearly took them out. Never underestimate the Great Lakes!”
Watch “Crossing Ontario” at BIT.LY/4I4DJQ4.
For more information about Stand Up for Great Lakes, visit STANDUPFORGREATLAKES.COM.
1. Sperry Women’s Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe
GREAT GEAR
Must-have goodies, gadgets and more for every boater
3. YETI 35 Carryall Tote Bag
This is the boat shoe that started it all. The women’s Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe
offers a timeless look anchored in the traditions of coastal style. This classic boat shoe features a luxurious leather upper, refined copper eyelets, traditional moccasin stitching and rawhide laces. Sperry’s signature 360-degree Lacing System
offers a customizable fit, while the razor-cut Wave-Siping outsole offers superior traction on wet surfaces. $100 AT SPERRY.COM
2. LOOKOUT AI Camera System
LOOKOUT, an AI pioneer in marine safety, offers this smart camera system designed to detect hazards beyond human capability. The LOOKOUT camera system uses advanced computer vision algorithms to detect and track marine hazards, such as other vessels, buoys, debris and even people in the water. It combines data into a clear, 3D augmented-reality view. This enhances situational awareness, making decision-making more efficient while underway. LOOKOUT uses data from other NMEAcompatible sensors and integrates with modern MFDs from Garmin, Furuno, Raymarine, Simrad, as well as smartphones. STARTING AT $3,995 AT GETALOOKOUT.COM
Meet YETI’s new seasonal color, Big Sky Blue, available in a variety of products, including this 35 Carryall Tote Bag. The bag is the perfect size to have onboard for a day cruise — not too small, not too big and perfectly tough. It features deployable dividers and two interior zippered pockets, as well as a four-loop hitchpoint grid. Made from waterproof, ultra-durable and easyto-clean material with a ThickSkin Shell so you don’t have to worry about a soggy bottom. Note: Not a cooler. Measures 18.1 inches wide and 15.2 inches tall. $150 AT YETI.COM
4. Wet Sounds Portable Speaker
Unleash powerful sound anywhere, no matter where you’re cruising! The speaker boasts 126 dB of rich, crystal-clear sound to fill any space, pro-grade SKAA wireless audio, which provides minimal latency and professional-grade audio quality, as well as Bluetooth connectivity, so you can seamlessly stream your favorite tunes within a 60-foot range. Speaker has an IP67 weatherproof and dustproof rating, integrated LED lighting, an ergonomic handle for easy portability, and weighs 25 pounds. $699.99 AT WETSOUNDS.COM
5. Mantus Marine Dinghy 104
Launching this spring, this brand-new rugged dinghy features a spacious interior, with the same profile as a rigid inflatable yet almost twice the internal volume (64 cubic feet). Features a two-layer wall: Layer one is an HDPE material that easily absorbs shocks and collisions, while layer two is a PE foam material. Measures 10.4 feet long with a 5.7-foot beam, and weighs 220 pounds with a 755-pound weight capacity. The dinghy can accommodate up to four people and has a max hp rating of 15 hp. Purchase includes seats, oars, 6-gallon fuel tank and storage bags. Wheels, swim ladder and canopy are all optional. $6,900 (SHIPPING INCLUDED) AT MANTUSMARINE.COM
6. The Mitten State “Great Lakes,
Great Times” T-Shirt
Prepare for warmer weather and shorter sleeves with this cute “Great Lakes, Great Times” tee. Broadcast your love of the Great Lakes while being comfortable and fashionable. The super soft heather tri-blend poly/cotton/rayon t-shirt is perfectly cozy for spring days out on the water. Designed in Michigan and assembled in the USA. $32.99 AT THEMITTENSTATE.COM
MARINE MAINTENANCE
By Capt. Frank Lanier
I Can See Clearly Now
Keeping your boat’s vinyl in top condition.
Boat owners invest big money in clear vinyl enclosures for protection against the elements and to extend their boating season; however, vinyl panels won’t stay clear and functional unless properly maintained.
Regardless of the different vinyl brands you’ll encounter (Strataglass, Crystal Clear, etc.), they’re all some form of polyvinyl chloride (PVC for short). As the bulk of clear enclosure curtains are coated or uncoated vinyl, this article will concentrate on their care and maintenance. Many of the tips mentioned can be applied to other clear enclosure materials (such as EZ2CY or Lexan); however, you’ll always want to follow the respective manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines.
Coated vinyl care
In 1993, Strataglass introduced the first coated clear vinyl product. Coated vinyl is more scratch-resistant than regular vinyl; however, once scratches occur, they can’t be buffed out or repaired (like uncoated vinyl) without further damaging the coating.
In addition to the general care and cleaning tips discussed below, extra precautions are required to avoid damaging vinyl coatings. These include limiting extensive cleanings and not using abrasives, waxes, polishes or scratch removers.
Cleaning
The first step in cleaning vinyl is a thorough freshwater washdown to remove as much grime and contaminants as possible, preferably before they’ve had a chance to dry.
Use a fine spray of water to loosen salt or dirt (you can lightly rub stubborn patches with your hands) then douse with water again.
Next, wash each panel with mild soap and water using a clean, soft terry cloth or lamb wool-type cleaning mitt (a 10-to-1 solution of vinegar and water works well, too). Never use harsh cleaners or detergents, and be sure to rinse thoroughly before soapy water has a chance to dry. Dried soap film not only affects visibility but can also cause the vinyl to dry out and yellow over time. After cleaning, gently wipe down with a clean, slightly damp chamois cloth.
Application of a plastic conditioner/protectant (such as 303 Aerospace Protectant or Meguair’s PLASTX Clear Plastic Cleaner & Polish) will add
years to the life of your vinyl. Monthly treatments will increase your vinyl’s water-shedding abilities (for better visibility) and add protection against UV rays while providing a slick coating that helps prevent grit and grime from gaining a foothold. Before applying any product, always review the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure compatibility with your vinyl.
Handle with care
While keeping vinyl clean is the first step, handling and storage play a crucial role as well. The first rule is the less you handle vinyl, the better. Avoid rolling up panels, particularly when wet (which promotes fogging) or while coated with salt or grime, which can cause scratches.
Never leave enclosure curtains rolled up once back at the dock. It’s always best to store or secure vinyl flat or in the open position, which helps retain its original shape and prevent distortion.
If you do roll panels up, place a clean piece of white flannel (cut to size) on the panel before rolling. This helps remove moisture and prevent scratches from vinyl-to-vinyl contact.
If your panels fog up, the best option is to secure them open and use sunlight to dry them naturally.
Finally, here’s a quick list of don’ts to keep in mind while caring and cleaning your vinyl enclosures:
1. Don’t use abrasives or high-alkaline cleaners.
2. Don’t use solvents or petroleum-based products, as they can speed up the deterioration of the vinyl.
3. Don’t use any type of “regular” glass cleaners. Most are too harsh and will leach out the plasticizers, speeding up the aging process.
4. Don’t apply cleaners in direct sunlight or let them remain on the vinyl too long. Rinse them off immediately, before they have a chance to dry.
5. Don’t let your curtains come in contact with tanning oil or sunscreen lotions, as both can cause permanent clouding.
6. Don’t use window treatments such as RainX, as they can also cause vinyl damage. Most will specifically state “for glass only.”
Proper care of your vinyl enclosures is time and effort well spent. Do it right and you’ll always see the difference.
The first step is a thorough cleaning and freshwater rinse, followed by drying with a soft cloth or mitt to remove water spots. Then clean with a suitable vinyl cleaner. Finally, apply a UV protectant. Canvas covers add years of life to your clear vinyl windows.
CAPT. FRANK LANIER is an award-winner journalist, boat maintenance guru and owner of Capt. F.K. Lanier & Associates, Marine Surveyors and Consultants. Check out his YouTube channel "Everything Boats with Capt. Frank Lanier." CAPTFKLANIER.COM
Recipe for good vinyl care: Lamb’s wool mitt, appropriate vinyl cleaner, protectant and microfiber buffing cloth
Read Lakeland’s New Web Series!
Join along as Karly and Evan Nietzel, high school sweethearts originally from Iowa, cruise the Great Loop! We are tracking them in real-time on our website. Read an excerpt from a recent post below.
Onward to St. Augustine
W
hen we last checked in, we had just arrived in New Smyrna Beach, capping off our first weekend on America’s Great Loop with an incredible cruise filled with wildlife and a celebratory dinner at The Garlic. Our week in New Smyrna Beach was a bit rainy, but we still enjoyed our stunning anchorage between the mangroves and a sandbar that Ripley absolutely loved. While in New Smyrna, we purchased two electric scooters to assist in grocery runs and expand our exploration radius in all the towns to come.
After three full days of productivity and a little bit of fun, we made our way to Halifax Harbor Marina in Daytona Beach on Thursday. Here we took full advantage of the laundry, unlimited hot water showers, shore power and water to clean off the build-up of salt spray on the boat. This marina is in the heart of Daytona’s historical district, which we had a grand time exploring Friday night.
We started our night at Madeline’s Wine Bar for pre-dinner drinks, then savored some sushi at Ronin Sushi Bar, stumbled upon the Zanzibar Speakeasy where we danced to an incredible jazz band, and capped the night off at One Horse Saloon. Despite all the fun, we still managed to beat the sunrise and start our cruise to St. Augustine on Saturday morning.
Although this was only our sixth cruise of the journey, the scenery from Daytona to St. Augustine was our favorite yet. With a narrow path that shielded us from the wind, beautiful houses to admire and of course no shortage of dolphins, we never found ourselves feeling bored at any point. As we neared historic downtown St. Augustine (where we would be staying for the next week), we were reminded of the weekend we spent here six months
ago for our third wedding anniversary.
St. Augustine is a special place filled with so much history, extraordinary architecture and, of course, wonderful food. We can’t recommend the St. Augustine Municipal Marina enough, as our backyard view is the downtown district. With easy access to the dinghy dock and less than a block away from the nearest restaurant, we are looking forward to our week here. We recently posted our latest video on YouTube showcasing the final prep before departing and our first cruise to Jensen Beach, so be sure to check that out here: BIT.LY/3XJKRGF Cheers to continuing the adventure!
By Glenn Hayes
Under Water
Understanding the waterproof rating on marine electronics.
Whether you’re in the market for tech equipment or are looking into the latest gizmo for your boat, one thing to confirm is that it’s at least some degree waterproof. But what is waterproof? What is water resistant? Can it handle a splash, light rain or an accidental dunking?
Fortunately, a standardized rating system is used to clue you in on how your new gadget or equipment will hold up to the elements while boating. Chances are you have heard these ratings before, such as IPX6 or IPX8, but do you know what they mean? Read on to get a better understanding of how to prevent water-damaged equipment.
The IP Code
A standard known as the IP Code, the Ingress Protection Rating, or the International Protection Rating, was created by the International Electrotechnical Commission so that end users could quantify and reference how well mechanical casings and enclosures are sealed against dust, moisture and accidental contact. Until this standard was created, “waterproof” and “watertight” were just marketing terms that could not be easily defined.
The code is represented by letters and numbers, each representing different information. In the marine world, after the IP, the following letter is usually X. This, if tested, would typically represent a number on a scale to indicate the resistance to dust intrusion. Because that is not usually a requirement in the marine world, it is generally defined with the X. The following number is essential in determining waterproofness, scaled from 0-9, with nine being the most waterproof.
• IPX0: No protection
• IPX1: Protected against condensation or dripping water
• IPX2: Protected against spraying water when tilted slightly from its normal position
• IPX3: The same as previously listed but tilted at more of an angle
• IPX4: Protected against splashing water from any angle
• IPX5: Protected against a low-pressure water stream from any angle
• IPX6: Protected against a high-pressure stream from any angle
• IPX7: Protected against water immersion for 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter
• IPX8: Protected from water immersion for longer times
• IPX9: Protection against close-range high pressure and high-temperature spray downs for prolonged periods
Sealing electronics
The good news is that many of today’s high-quality marine electronics from key manufacturers are usually IPX6-rated or higher. Most multifunction displays and many of the peripherals that connect to them are designed not to allow water ingress under typical boating and marine situations.
For many products, this is accomplished with precision-manufactured casings, excellent seals and dry nitrogen sealing. This sealing purges the air out of the units and replaces it with nitrogen gas, eliminating condensation and other moisture issues. This is also one of the reasons any repairs must be done at the manufacturer, as standard bench techs don’t usually have this capability once a repair is completed.
Of course, even with a good waterproof rating, one should avoid soaking any of your equipment as time, changes in temperature and exposure to the elements can harm those seals. That rating, after all, was done with a brand-new unit that hadn’t been sitting out in the harsh marine environment.
It would be safe to say that most electronics failures are due (at least in part) to failed connections. While the bilge is a common area for water-damaged equipment, behind the console or dash is also where water intrusion often rears its ugly head. While most boaters need not worry about the front of their displays, it is essential to ensure they are sealed where mounted and water cannot find its way behind them to the bevy of wires and connectors that link them all together. Most manufacturers provide seals for their displays if flush mounted. If those aren’t available, silicone should be used along with watertight fittings for cables that must pass through a dash or bulkhead. Liberal amounts of lithium grease on connections and heat-shrinking terminals and connections will ensure water is less of an issue.
So, the next time you purchase any tech equipment for your boat, look at the waterproof rating. It will be a good indication of how well it will hold up to the marine environment. And if it isn’t rated, chances are you may end up with a wet mess.
GLENN HAYES
GLENN HAYES is a marine writer and photographer whose background in the marine industry and in marine electronics spans almost three decades and many thousands of miles at sea traveling the world.
reached at
LIFE ON THE LOOP
By Jordan Bohonek
Casting Off
How to embrace the start of your Great Loop adventure.
Now that you own the boat and you have done the “Four Ps” (planned, packed, plotted and provisioned), the only thing left is to cast off your lines and sail away — right?
For adventure seekers, it is the “hold my beer” part of the adventure. For people who have dreamt of this trip for years, this moment is laced with much excitement. But for us, it was a strange new reality that we were really doing this!
No matter where you fall into these descriptions, trust me, there is no textbook that tells you what is about to happen. Sure, there are webinars, podcasts, social media posts and special interest groups, but the reality is, the Loop is a choose-your-own-adventure that only you can write!
I’ve heard it said recently during a Looper event in Florida: “The Loop is MORE — more challenging, more rewarding, the highs are higher, and the lows are lower.” And while it’s easy to focus on hearing stories of other’s challenges, I am here to tell you that the rewards and experiences you are about to uncover will change your life forever, as they did for our family.
The grace of 30 days
As a busy family of four, the idea of leaving behind life as we knew it was daunting, including selling our home, our cars and lots of other “stuff!” We also had to wrap our heads around the idea of not saying “goodbye;” the whole world seems to think you are dropping off a cliff when the reality is you are a FaceTime or a flight away from maintaining relationships. The other thing we look back on and laugh at is that no matter if you plan to accomplish this epic adventure in a year or three (or even longer), it will truly be gone in a flash, so savor each moment! My wife says it best by advising Loopers to give the trip the “grace of 30 days.” What does this mean you might ask? As studies show, it takes 28 days to break a habit or cycle — sometimes more and sometimes less. In full transparency, for us, it was a bit of a rough start getting going with mechanical issues, adapting to life on the water and inhabiting a much smaller space than we were accustomed
to. I have said to many, “The only reason we didn’t quit, was because we both didn’t want it the same day!”
With that being said, it was an incredible time of exploration: Exploring a new adventure, a new family dynamic and the strength of our relationship. Many say that if your current relationship is in a spot that needs some repair, life aboard may not be the option to fix it; however, for us, I was lucky to have a wife who is a partner in everything that we do — the good, the bad and the boating!
Not just the miles traveled
Looking back, those first 30 days were the foundation for everything that followed. We found our rhythm, adjusted our expectations and leaned into the adventure ahead. The beauty of the Loop isn’t just in the stunning anchorages, the historic towns, or the people you meet along the way, it’s in the way it transforms you.
Somewhere along the waterway, you stop worrying so much about the “what-ifs” and start embracing the “what’s next.” The small victories, like nailing a tricky docking maneuver or watching the sunset from a quiet cove, become just as rewarding as reaching a new milestone. The frustrations fade, replaced by an overwhelming gratitude that you took this leap.
Trust me when I say this: When you cross your wake and the journey eventually ends, you realize that the Loop was never just about the miles traveled. It was about the confidence gained, the memories made and the lifelong friendships forged along the way.
So, if you’re standing at the dock, lines in hand, wondering what’s ahead, know this: The hardest part is leaving. The rest? That’s the adventure — one you’ll never regret and one that, if you let it, will shape you in ways you never imagined.
JORDAN BOHONEK
Originally from southern Minnesota, Jordan now lives on a boat with his family. He combines his love for the water with his passion for helping others find vessels as a yacht broker, enabling them to live their dream on America’s Great Loop. Follow along the Bohonek’s Great Loop journey at their Facebook page “Live the Dash | Traveling America’s Great Loop.”
BOAT SPOTLIGHT
By Kevin Koenig
SPECIFICATIONS
LOA: 22'7"
Beam: 8'6" Draft: 16"
Weight (w/out engines): 3,720 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 70 gals.
Max Power: 300 hp
MSRP: Contact dealer GRADYWHITE.COM
DEALERS
South Shore Marine SOUTHSHOREMARINE.COM
Desmasdon’s Boat Works DESMASDONS.COM
Drummond Marine DRUMMONDMARINE.COM
Jerry’s Majestic Marine JERRYSMAJESTIC.COM
Mega Powersports & Marine MEGAPOWERSPORTS.COM
The Boat House BOATHOUSEH2O.COM
Grady-White 231 Coastal Explorer
The versatile one.
Grady-White is one of the most revered names in boating for good reason. The builder has been turning out exceptional craft since 1959 and does so in Greenville, North Carolina, an area known the world over for being rich in boat-building talent.
The latest in its wide-ranging lineup is the 231 CE, a 23-foot “Coastal Explorer” that stands out among the competition for its exceptional versatility.
“The 231 can easily take on shallow waters and sandbars while also navigating deeper, choppier waters effortlessly,” says Grady-White’s Katie Creech. “Weather and water conditions can be unpredictable on the lake, and the 231 brings rugged capability in a small package.”
The boat also stands out for the absolute loads of sheer fun it can deliver. The 231 has the inshore version of Grady’s SeaV² hull, which delivers soft and smooth rides even in choppy seas, and also offers a feeling of “grippiness” on the water’s surface even
through the sharpest turns. The boat can hit close to 50 mph with power packages that range up to 300 hp in total. The 231 features all of these things in a footprint that is easily trailerable, making it a very tempting purchase indeed.
The boat is also well-outfitted for fishing. To that end, it comes with two large casting platforms, 19 rod holders, a 277-quart fishbox, a 25-gallon livewell, and extra stowage in the form of four tackle trays, a drawer, and a knife and pliers holder. However, it can easily convert into a cruiser as well, with comfortable and adjustable seating both in the cockpit and up in the bow. Furthermore, it has a 29-quart insulated cooler for cold drinks whether you are fishing for walleye or just taking a pleasure cruise on a beautiful summer’s day.
What you’re getting in the Grady-White 231 CE is a rugged little boat with an excellent pedigree that can do anything you ask of her and more.
BOAT SPOTLIGHT
By Kevin Koenig
Regal 42 Grande Coupe Cruising in comfort.
The Regal 42 Grande Coupe is a boat large enough for the ocean yet is also perfectly suited for cruising on lakes, thanks to its smart design, onboard comfort factor, sporty performance, smooth ride and all-around versatility that has garnered her many fans in her young life.
The 42 Grande Coupe — which is sold by Basa’s Marine in Bolingbrook, Illinois — certainly offers a lot to like. The boat can be outfitted with a pair of Volvo Penta IPS600s, each with 435 horses. Those engines offer a respectable top speed of 35 mph with a cruise in the high-20-mph range. Those aren’t quite sportboat numbers, but they are still plenty fast enough for anyone who enjoys a little extra pop out on the lake. The boat also comes with yachty features like a hydraulic swim platform, a three-zone dual-cycle air-conditioning system, an electric sunroof, a shower in the cockpit, a washer/ dryer, a central vacuum system, an oil change
system and an optional Seakeeper gyroscopic stabilizing system. Phew — got all that?
The Regal’s interior is one of its strongest features and one that helps set itself apart in this size and class. The salon has wraparound seating on the port side. The seats are raised ever so slightly so that guests can see out the big windows to either side of the vessel. A television pops down on hinges from the ceiling, while an enormous sunroof overhead allows light to fill the space. Down below, the 42 Grande Coupe has two staterooms, one at the bow and another amidships. The one at the bow has an island-style double berth, an overhead hatch, a hanging locker, and access to a semi-private head with a shower. The stateroom amidships has plenty of sleeping space but is crowded for headroom, making it an ideal spot to stash the kids or some extra bags for longer stays aboard — the latter part of which this boat is well equipped for.
SPECIFICATIONS
LOA: 41'11"
Beam: 13'
Draft (down): 45"
Dry Weight: 24,700 lbs.
Water Capacity: 73 gals.
Power: 2 x Volvo Penta
IPS600s 435 hp
MSRP: Contact dealer
REGALBOATS.COM
BOAT SPOTLIGHT
By Heather Steinberger
SPECIFICATIONS
LOA: 66'9"
Beam: 16'2"
Draft: 41"
Dry Weight: 60,000 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 1,500 gals.
Water Capacity: 118 gals.
Power: 5 x 600-hp
Mercury V12s
MSRP: $6,833,844
SCOUTBOATS.COM
DEALERS
SkipperBud’s SKIPPERBUDS.COM
Maple City Marine MAPLECITYMARINE.COM
TScout 670 LXS Project Everest.
he largest outboard-powered yacht in the world has arrived. Scout Boats unveiled the new 670 LXS during a January VIP event at its headquarters in Summerville, South Carolina, and in March, the public had its first opportunity to see the new flagship yacht at the Palm Beach International Boat Show in Florida.
Boasting five 600-hp Mercury V12 engines, the 66-foot, 9-inch yacht has a top speed of 60 mph, a fast cruising speed of 40 mph and a range of roughly 500 miles.
“We want to continue to raise the bar for class, comfort and style, and we knew the next evolution for the Scout brand was the 670 LX Series,” says Scout CEO Steve Potts, who founded the company in 1989. He explains the flagship series will include both LXS (luxury sport) and LXF (luxury fish) models.
The initiative, known internally as Project Everest, launched in 2021 when Scout found the right design partner in Harrison Eidsgaard,
an acclaimed superyacht design studio based in London, to help create a unique yacht designed to fill a gap in the market.
“The design is a harmony of [Scout’s] sportfishing heritage injected with superyacht detailing and styling,” says Peder Eidsgaard, one of the design studio’s founders.
The 670 LXS features three staterooms, multiple lounge areas, retractable sunroof and windows, dual hydraulic beach platforms, articulating rocket launchers, a SureShade system and much more. It also showcases pioneering manufacturing techniques.
“The hull is epoxy-infused carbon fiber, so it looks like a Ferrari but is built like a tank,” says Alan Lang, Scout’s director of sales and marketing. “It checks all the boxes for cruising, fishing and performance, and you can still pull up to a sandbar if you want to. You can do it all and still feel like you’re aboard a luxury yacht.”
BOAT SPOTLIGHT
By Kevin Koenig
Sea Ray SDX 250
The fun machine.
Boating is all about having fun on the water with friends and family. Sea Ray acutely understands this and has been building boats with the express purpose in mind for quite some time. The latest fun machine from the Knoxville, Tennessee, boat-building giant is the SDX 250 (and her sister, the SDX 250 Surf). These models blend exciting performance with a level of onboard comfort that is hard to beat in this size and class.
“Following the successful redesign of the SDX 270 earlier this year, we’re thrilled to launch the new SDX 250 and SDX 250 Surf,” says Keith Yunger, Sea Ray president. “Both boats present space, storage and amenities to deliver endless adventure. Also, the SDX 250 Surf represents a brand-new 25-foot addition to our surf lineup, complementing the recent introduction of the SDX 270 Surf.”
The 250 takes advantage of its sizable beam to offer space and comfort to all its guests. It has comfortable L-shape seating at the transom, as well as multiple
adjustable seating configurations throughout the boat. It also has an integrated cooler system to offer refreshingly cold drinks to all aboard — particularly useful if you’ve just had a good workout surfing the boat’s wake. A large helm seat and companion seat have movable backrests. Each seat is protected from the wind by a sleek, curved windshield that helps with visibility. Options in the cockpit include a table and inductive charging stations to make sure your phone is never out of juice.
This Sea Ray has a standard 300-hp Mercury MerCruiser 6.2L MPI ECT engine with a Bravo Three drive, SmartCraft technology and Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) controls. The standard model is set up with sterndrives, while the Surf model has a forwardfacing Bravo Four S drive with contra-rotating props to create the easily surfable wakes.
However you choose to configure the SDX 250, one thing is for sure, your days spent on the water will be filled with action-packed good times.
SPECIFICATIONS
LOA: 25'2" Beam: 8'6"
Dry Weight: 6,629 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 65 gals.
Water Capacity: 12 gals.
Std. Power: Mercury
MerCruiser 6.2L MPI ECT
Bravo Three with DTS
Base MSRP: $133,850 SEARAY.COM
DEALERS
B&E Marine BEMARINE.COM
Colony Marine COLONYMARINE.COM
SkipperBud’s SKIPPERBUDS.COM
Walstrom Marine WALSTROM.COM
BOAT TEST
By Capt. Tom Serio
TMonterey Elite 27 OB Keeping it simple.
here is an old adage I like to live by when I can fit it into my stressful and at times tumultuous life: Keep it simple stupid, or KISS, for short. The adage originated from a design principle to emphasize and incorporate simplicity to avoid complications.
When I got on the new Monterey Elite 27 OB, I felt that I had met my KISS match. This is a simple boat — a pleasure cruiser to help you simplify your valuable free time. After my sea trial and walk-through, I came up with my own, new acronym: KISSS (no, that’s not a typo).
The design philosophy behind the new Monterey Elite 27 is “Keep it simple, strong and safe.”
Understand that keeping it simple doesn’t equate to making it cheap. The Elite 27 is a very stable, responsive craft that can take on conditions other 27-footers would shy away from.
TAKING CONTROL
I like the helm on the Elite 27 for several reasons. First, it’s on the centerline and not tucked to starboard, thereby creating a full walkaround deck. The 15-inch ultra-wide Simrad NSX multifunction display (engine info, nav, digital controls, etc.) is centered, so either the captain on the left or companion on the right can easily access the screen. Pretty much all operations can be controlled from this monitor. And it’s nice having a second set of eyes with direct view of the screen, as well as forward course.
A padded console top, a Fusion Apollo stereo system, two dash storage boxes for gear, inductive phone chargers, a few push buttons for the horn, an anchor windlass and cup holders fit it out. The center part of the console dash extends aft and houses the throttle and trim tab controller — things you need at your fingertips.
Next, the bolstered twin bucket helm seats with armrests rotate 180-degrees, so you can be included with the aft seating crowd. Also consider that you can have an aft-facing spotter close by if enjoying watersports.
An integrated hardtop is secured by double-strut, powder-coated beefy aluminum frames. It covers the helm and a portion of the aft deck. The forward brow reduces direct sun and glare on the instrumentation. Forward is a huge windshield offering perfect visibility.
INHERENTLY STABLE
There’s a lot being offered in just 27 feet. With a beamy hull of 8 feet, 10 inches, wide chines and several lifting strakes, this is a stable platform when drifting or at speed. Thanks to the plumb bow and 21 degrees of deadrise, the Monterey 27 slices head seas and has the speed to get to and from your destinations. This is by no accident. Monterey designed the hull this way as part of its Vertical Stem Technology feature, enhancing performance and comfort. This hull is so well-tuned, it performs great even without a gyro stabilizer (a high-priced item indeed).
Out for a ride, our sea trial didn’t disappoint. Wheel handling was responsive, visibility excellent and the fun quotient very high. Head on a leisurely cruise at approximately 11.3 mph for a miserly fuel burn of 6.8 gph. Or kick it up to 32 mph at 15.6 gph. Push the throttle all the way and the single Mercury Verado V10 400-hp will produce about 52 mph. Of course, your results may vary due to
number of passengers, gear, sea conditions, etc. But there are plenty of ponies under that cowl to give you the speed you need.
NO NEED TO STAND
It’s not just another center console but a very com–fortable ride with plenty of space for guests to relax.
Up forward are seating options. Gather the crew around the forward bench seats with padded combing that rings the bow from port to starboard. Aft backrests convert this area into forward-facing lounge seating. There’s dry storage under the hinged seats as well as the deck. A drop-in table makes this an inviting spot for cocktails or meals.
Nicely designed is that the anchor and windlass are below the forward seat and not on deck.
In front of the console is a dual diamond-stitched seat with outboard flip-up armrests. It’s plush and makes bumpy rides tolerable. Unlock and swing the seat out revealing an enclosed private head complete with a toilet, sink, counter with grabrail and storage.
RELAX AS YOU LIKE
Aft is a mix of seating configurations, so pay attention. The standard layout is the L-settee, with port cushion and low-profile backrest. Across the transom are a split high-backrest and padded seating. Now the larger backrest can fold forward halfway, converting from a forward-facing seat into an aft-facing seat, perfect for watching the kids in the water. Or fold the backrest all the way flat to create a sunpad area. The smaller backrest can be removed and placed at the forward end of the port settee for an aft-facing lounger.
In the cockpit is a wetbar with a sink and an enclosed pull-out faucet that doubles as a shower (cold water only). Monterey knows its customers like to enjoy meals onboard and has added Burnewiin side gunnel mounts for a portable grill setup. Speakers are placed around the entire boat to keep you and your neighbors rockin’ all night. Non-skid decking on the swim platform (with port and starboard ladders) allows for safe passage around the outboard for line handling or powerplant maintenance.
With all this going on, Monterey made the Elite 27 appealing to the eye. High freeboard makes for a dry ride and carries the hardtop and framing in excellent proportions.
Owning a boat shouldn’t be difficult. Keep it simple, strong and safe with the Monterey Elite 27.
By Ken Kreisler
FRONT RUNNER 43 CAT
A MATTER OF BALANCE
FRONT RUNNER BOATS began as a genuine grassroots idea. Back in 2011, fishing buddies Mark Lacovera and Phillip Mahn, both veteran boaters and marine industry alumni, realized an opportunity to buy a 38-foot Fountain, overhaul and restore it, and then sell it.
That first eureka moment saw success and, like an insistent pair of sailfish cutting the surface after trolling baits, the team followed it up by rebuilding, rewiring, repairing and restoring nine other sportfish boats. Their second inspirational flash came as they both questioned, why, in their combined opinions, it wasn’t done right from the beginning? Why could all these boats not live up to their particular standards?
START FROM SCRATCH
After inspecting the insides and outsides of boats from the major builders, they decided to take a leap of faith and start designing and building the kind of boat they always imagined was the right one for them.
By February 2019, that aspiration became Front Runner Boatworks. Presently, its model lineup of six boats — including the big-shouldered, center console 43 Cat with quad 400-hp Mercury V10 power — is making a major statement in this sector. The team’s success with its previous 37-foot Cat prompted its realization of this larger boat.
“We looked at all that was positive with catamaran design and what was lacking,” says Lacovera. “We designed a product that would do all the good things and none of what we didn’t want.”
As with all its models, the Front Runner 43 Cat’s design is by renowned naval architect Erwin Gerards, whose list of top-level builds includes Garlington, Michael Rybovich and Game Fisherman, along with many others, and runs on a stepped hull, lifting strakes and a flared bow. Common to all catamaran hull designs, the beam is carried fully forward making optimum use of deck space. This is quite apparent the moment you step aboard.
ACTION PACKED
Full attention was given to supplying the maximum fishing space possible without sacrificing comfort. To that end, the Front Runner 43 Cat presents a helm featuring a double row of three bolstered seats, an oversized bow sunpad with 14 total rod holders (seven on each side), a kill box under the cushion on one side and storage under the other, a teak leaning post aft with four more rod holders, wide walkways to either side, as well as a large transom area with a pair of 55-gallon livewells. Coaming bolsters surround the interior and deck hatches reveal storage and additional livewells.
The centerline helm features a wide console with plenty of space for a pair of Garmin 8622 22-inch nav screens and all controls, including throttles, joystick, autopilot, 4-foot open array radar and a pair of ICOM VHF radios. Switches and other notable equipment are all within easy reach and visibility. Another noteworthy observation is the robust, solid feel both underfoot and to the touch of just about everything onboard. From the hardtop and its supports to the hinges on the starboard boarding door, to the way hatches and doors open and close, to the conspicuous fine fit and finish, this is a well-built boat. Forward and to starboard of the console is access to the head and storage area, while the aft section features both salt and freshwater washdowns, a telescoping dive ladder, and in-deck access to the
pair of sea chests and deep cycle batteries housed in custom boxes. With a long list of upgrade options such as a pair of 22-foot Gemlux riggers, gap or Marlin tower, electric reel outlets, teaser reels, glass windshield or phone booth enclosure, and teak helm chairs, your Front Runner 43 Cat will be a personal statement of ownership.
SMOOTH, STEADY, STABLE
Equipped with the precision of Mercury electric steering and joystick control, maneuvering her out of her dock space and into the seaway leading to Biscayne Bay, even with a persistent 15-mph breeze, was effortless. With a long no-wake zone ahead, we motored along until the way was clear. With all six of us ready for our performance runs in the 2-foot chop, we slowly increased our speed and noted getting up on plane at about 1800 RPM, holding plane at about 18-20 mph.
Our best cruise speed of 45-50 mph came in at 4500 RPM. We topped her out at 68 mph, with a 74 mph top speed recorded by the company during its own sea trial. We then performed a series of S-turns, some tight, and noted a smooth transition in and out of the maneuvers with no noticeable loss of RPM or bow steering. The speed runs were exhilarating, and at that pace our boat was smooth, steady, stable and always under control with no slapping or tunnel sneezing.
“Our boats are so well-balanced they can supply comfort, performance and all-around practicality in any area,” says Lacovera. “Everything is done in-house, from upholstery, C&C and glass cutting, to the metal work. For the Great Lakes, a boat like the 43 Cat is a great match. With its offshore heritage, along with its quality and strength — especially for recreational use when the wind picks up and the weather goes south — you’ve got a boat under you designed and engineered to take it.”
To further the point, Front Runner took Best in Show at this past Cleveland Boat Show.
Lacovera and Mahn started Front Runner Boatworks with their own money, eliminating corporate investors, loans and silent partners, thus ensuring their combined visions could not only be realized but they could also keep costs under control. Following through on running their business as a passion project, the team — with its six versatile, sea-proven models already making waves — are planning to add others in the near future.
If a big, well-designed center console with the power you need for your kind of boating adventures is up on your radar screen, you should make sure the Front Runner 43 Cat is on your short list of must-see boats. Your visit and sea trial will be well worth your time.
HELM, SEATING AND AFT
LIVEWELL PHOTOS BY ANNA YAKUP
FEATURE
By Heather Steinberger
Artful Artful AN
JOURNEY
FULFILLING DREAMS AND CULTIVATING CREATIVITY THROUGH AMERICA’S GREAT LOOP.
Last year, nautical book publisher Seaworthy Publications released a slender tome titled “Exploring America’s Great Loop: Artfully Cruising the Rivers and Canals of North America.” This little book, distinctive with its hand-drawn cover art, tells the story of James and Jill Iversson, the trawler Alvin James and a yearlong exploration of that celebrated waterway.
This isn’t a typical Looper narrative, however. While most cruiser-authors focus on preparations and how-to advice, the Iversons took a different approach.
“We wanted to focus on the experience itself,” James says.
The result is a true journey of discovery. Through their captain’s log, emails, journal entries and one remarkable sketchbook, the Iversons bring the Great Loop to life in a way that is uniquely their own.
THE WATER CALLS
James was born in Athens, Greece, where his father was stationed with the U.S. Army after World War II. The family returned to Chicago, where the blue expanse of Lake Michigan was a constant source of inspiration for young James.
In his author’s note, he writes that he wanted a boat and to have adventures on the water since he was a little boy.
“Even though my family had no nautical history and very little money to invest in anything as frivolous as a boat, the dream persisted,” he writes. “In adulthood, I read everything I could about small boat voyaging.”
Jill, on the other hand, grew up on the
water. Her parents were educators, and their family split their time between the school year in the United States and summer break at remote fish camps in Canada.
“I never spent a single summer in the U.S. until after college,” Jill says with a laugh. “We didn’t have electricity. We used a generator to pump water. We were very close to nature, and I grew up boating — not sailing, but powerboating and fishing.”
James met Jill in 1980. He told her he had always dreamed of owning a boat.
“I wanted to help make that happen,” she says.
After eight years in the Florida Keys — and enduring Hurricane Andrew in 1992 — the Iversons returned to their beloved Lake Michigan, settling near Milwaukee. They took sailing lessons at the nonprofit Milwaukee Community Sailing Center and purchased a 19-foot trailerable sailboat.
“We sailed on Lake Michigan, and we trailered the boat to the North Channel for a week’s vacation,” James says. “The next year, we did it again, and then it was time to move up to a 24-footer.”
Upon retirement, the couple purchased a Spray 40 steel sailboat that would allow them to spend the entire summer in the North Channel. They named the boat Joshua after Joshua Slocum, the first person to complete a solo circumnavigation, and his celebrated sloop Spray.
Now the Iversons could enjoy adventure in spades. They spent summers in Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay and North Channel, and they explored the Caribbean islands during the offseason with friends aboard their boat.
James also undertook transatlantic crossings, sailing eastbound from Norfolk, Virginia, to Portugal in 2014, and westbound from the Canary Islands to St. Lucia in 2016. Yet something was still missing.
“Jill wasn’t interested in weeks at sea without seeing land, and I wanted a big adventure that I could share with the love of my life,” he says.
A GRAND ADVENTURE BEGINS
That big adventure started with a new boat, although the Iversons didn’t realize it at the time. Friends in the North Channel had a trawler for sale, so they went to take a look at it.
They fell in love.
Named for James’ father, Alvin James is a 1985 Great Lakes 33, a classic 33-foot trawler built by Canadian sailboat manufacturer Ontario Yachts. Founded in 1961, the company is best known today for its production of International Etchells racing sailboats.
“She’s a powerboat that was built by sailors for sailors,” Jill says. “That appealed to us.”
“Isn’t that the progression?” James interjects, chuckling. “Sailboat to trawler to old folks’ home?”
Comfortable, seaworthy and user-friendly, Alvin James carries one turbo-charged, sixcylinder Volvo diesel engine. She can deliver a cruising speed of roughly 7 knots.
“You might get 9 or 10 knots if you push it, but you’ll also burn three times the fuel,” James notes.
He and Jill discussed what they might be able to do with this new vessel. The question of the Great Loop arose.
They had the perfect boat, especially since Alvin James draws just 3 feet, 2 inches. The trip would strike the ideal balance between rivers, lakes and ocean, and between voyaging and harbor-hopping.
They also had the time. They could take a full year to enjoy the wild places and waterfront communities in America’s heartland, along the Gulf Coast, through old Florida and up the eastern seaboard.
Alvin James left the Iversons’ current hometown of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, on September 3, 2021. After more than 6,000 miles and a year of continuous voyaging, she crossed her wake, returning to Manitowoc on September 10, 2022.
In the beginning, Jill says she didn’t understand the significance of the Great Loop.
“We’d been cruisers for a long time, so this was just another big cruise,” she says. “I came to realize the Great Loop really is special. It is pretty darn cool.”
“The epic part of it really sank in after about six months,” James adds.
Their cruising experience came in handy as they navigated the various stresses of life along the Loop, from busy river traffic and sneaky sandbars to crab pots, wind and fog. They also were grateful to Alvin James; its shallow draft allowed easy access to anchorages, especially along the river system, and its size was manageable for them as a couple.
“Plus, fuel prices were spiking,” Jill remembers. “People often confided that they wished they had a smaller boat.”
The business of operating and maintaining
Jill and James Iverson (pictured left) traveled the Great Loop aboard their boat Alvin James, pictured above at an overnight tie-up on a Trent-Severn lock.
Alvin James and planning for the next port of call kept the Iversons busy, but they made a concerted effort to stay connected with the outside world. James kept a detailed captain’s log and sent email updates to family and friends weekly, while Jill shared social media posts with her photography.
“We were laughing because people thought what we were doing was so dangerous,” Jill says. “We wanted to show them what life was really like. The posts and emails were about everyday things to put their minds at ease.”
“Then people started saying, you should do a book,” James says.
THE INNER JOURNEY UNFOLDS
“Once we heard that,” Jill says, “we thought, ‘well, maybe we should!’”
Not only did they have access to the rich information contained in their captain’s log and email updates, but they had Jill’s photo library and journal as well. They also had Jill’s sketchbook — a priceless resource that would transform the manuscript itself into a work of art.
Jill is a lifelong artist, the granddaughter of a watercolorist and puppeteer who shared her talents and passion with Jill as a little girl, who reveled in the Canadian wilderness, unstructured play and unbridled creativity. Jill went on to study art in college but left it behind due to the demands of work and raising a family.
“Even after retirement, I was still so busy,” Jill says. “I was volunteering, still working for others.”
Embarking on the Great Loop aboard Alvin James was an inner journey for Jill as much as it was an outer one. She filled one drawer with art supplies and committed to a daily practice of creating one drawing every day.
“This was do-or-die time because I wouldn’t have the regular distractions on this trip,” she says. “My creative life was going to be nonnegotiable, and the process was simple: Turn off the critical brain and draw for 15 minutes. On the first day, I created a drawing with six vignettes. I think my next book will be all about 15-minute sketching!
“I process life through drawing,” she continues. “With the sketches and my own journal, I am sharing what I remember, how I think and how I connected to what I experienced.”
Jill would go on to create between 350 and 400 sketches during their Great Loop adventure. She captured local landmarks, flora and fauna; memorable encounters like tail-dancing dolphins and a kayaker “drafting” in Alvin James’ wake; and local personalities and new friends, most memorably the three-boat flotilla affectionately called “Peggy’s Pack” after the family pet aboard the motor vessel Sabot .
“We insisted to the publisher that Jill’s artwork had to be in color,” James says. “To do that and hold the price point, we needed to limit our page count to 100-125. It was worth it.”
While the narrative flow of the book was relatively straightforward, the Iversons had a lot of material to organize. Yet just a year after their
return to Manitowoc, Seaworthy Publications released “Exploring America’s Great Loop.”
Seventy of Jill’s sketches bring the narrative into full, vibrant color. Several others, previously unavailable to the public, are shared here exclusively for Lakeland Boating readers.
“We felt a quiet sense of accomplishment,” James says. “We don’t talk to people about the Great Loop all the time, because it’s just something we did — but it was interesting enough to document it, sharing both of our perspectives.”
And once it was done, it was done. Just three months after publication, the Iversons spent three months in Alaska in an RV.
“It was a relief to finish the book, and we still wanted to have adventures,” Jill explains.
TO BE CONTINUED…
James says he still thinks about the Great Loop from time to time, especially when he is enjoying his morning coffee with a view of Lake Michigan. He thinks about it, and he remembers his childhood dream.
“It’s all I wanted since I was 6 or 7 years old, and I never gave up that dream,” he says. “I’m very fortunate to have a partner who wanted to share the dream with me. Some people can’t imagine a year in a confined space with a spouse, but the Great Loop really did make our relationship stronger. Every day for a year, you’re driving, provisioning, problem-solving, doing everything together.”
As it turned out, James and Jill also
cultivated creativity together through writing, photography and sketching. These daily practices became life skills over the course of their voyage, and the Iversons agree this has made them more resilient as individuals and as a couple.
“We went through COVID on the loop, so we learned we really could get through anything,” Jill reflects. “The Great Loop was one of the highlights of my life. We made some amazing friends, like Melanie and Justin on Sabot and all of Peggy’s Pack. That’s pretty special. And it sounds corny, but I have the best partner in the world. After 43 years together, our marriage definitely is stronger today.”
The Iversons aren’t slowing down in the wake of their Great Loop adventure, and neither is Alvin James. Jill says they’re toying with the idea of shipping the boat to the Pacific Northwest so they can cruise the Inside Passage.
Jill says, “When we were in Alaska last summer, James asked me, ‘Jill, do you think we’re too old to do this?’”
They laugh together with delight. Clearly, the next adventure is just around the corner.
“Exploring America’s Great Loop: Artfully Cruising the Rivers and Canals of North America” is available for purchase through Seaworthy Publications (SEAWORTHY.COM) as well as through online retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Another option for purchasing the book is to visit BOOKSHOP. ORG, which works to connect readers with independent booksellers.
(From opposite page clockwise) A collage of Georgian Bay using vintage geological map and watercolor; the ibis in the park across from the marina in Sanford, Florida, were super friendly; Peggy’s Pack crosses the Gulf of Mexico together using the Rim Route; Beaufort, North Carolina, was a great spot to linger for a week and celebrate James’ 72nd birthday; Fells Point, Baltimore.
PORT OF CALL
By Craig Ritchie
CANADA’S PRETTIEST
You would think that a community dubbed Canada’s prettiest town — and by Queen Victoria, no less — must make an inviting port of call for Great Lakes cruisers.
TOWN
Although Her Majesty never actually visited Goderich in person, upon hearing a relative’s glowing descriptions of the delightful settlement situated midway along the Canadian side of Lake Huron, Victoria reportedly remarked that Goderich “surely must be the prettiest town in Canada.” That was all it took, and the appellation stuck.
Dubbed Canada’s prettiest settlement by Queen Victoria herself, the delightful community of GODERICH, ONTARIO, boasts a colorful history and a particularly rich maritime heritage.
First settled in 1827, Goderich is named for Frederick John Robinson, the first Viscount Goderich and prime minister of the U.K. at the time. The community’s position on Lake Huron at the mouth of the Maitland River — and its proximity to some of Canada’s best agricultural lands — quickly brought trade, commerce and more settlers. Piers to protect ships docking in the Maitland River were soon constructed, along with a lighthouse — the first to appear on Lake Huron’s Canadian shore.
Fishing became an important industry, and the pier was soon lined with fish shanties where salted fillets awaited ships to bring them to buyers in Sarnia, Detroit and Toledo. With its booming trade in both fish and produce, the community grew quickly, incorporating as a town in 1850. Goderich’s fortunes really took off after the railway arrived in 1858. With its new rapid transportation link, the port grew exponentially, adding further cargo to its already bustling fish and produce trade. To accommodate this, a large grain elevator was built overlooking the harbor in 1859, along with a modern rail station, which still stands today.
A series of flour mills constructed on the Maitland just upstream of the harbor solidified Goderich’s place as a hub of industry and economic activity. The town boomed further in 1866 after settler Samuel Platt discovered a salt seam while constructing a new flour mill, giving rise to a significant salt mining operation and driving even more ships to visit Goderich’s bustling port.
Menesetung Bridge
Goderich Lighthouse
Lake Ontario
Lake St. Clair
GODERICH Detroit
Sarnia Bay City London
Lake Huron
Lake Huron
Today, the fishing and flour industries have come and gone, and farmers now ship their goods to market by road, leaving the massive Parrish and Heimbecker grain terminal and the Compass Minerals salt mine to dominate the commercial harbor.
The salt mine — the largest underground facility of its kind in the world — harvests rock salt from tunnels 1,800 feet below Lake Huron and extending nearly three miles offshore. To date, more than 150 million tons of salt has been harvested from below the Goderich lakebed and shipped to hundreds of communities around the Great Lakes and all along the St. Lawrence Seaway. The activity ensures a steady stream of lake freighter traffic in and out of Goderich’s ship basin throughout the navigation season.
Say hello
Goderich sits on the Canadian shoreline of Lake Huron a little over 10 miles north of Bayfield, or approximately 56 miles northeast of the St. Clair River as it meets the Big Lake. The approach to Goderich is wide-open and hazard-free, with its massive grain elevator and salt mine structure visible for miles offshore as you approach.
Most Great Lakes ports do well to have a good harbor, and Goderich is now blessed with two, each served by adjacent but separate entrances. The larger, newer port to the south is the commercial ship basin accessed by passing through two breakwaters, each terminated with a flashing light. Look carefully here and you can still spot Goderich’s original white lighthouse with its red roof on shore, now partially obscured by trees. The recreational boat harbor, which was the original commercial port, sits immediately to the north of the ship basin, where a long rock pier extending from shore marks the mouth of the Maitland River. Follow the north face of this pier upstream to reach the town’s two municipal marina properties. You’ll spot Inlet Marina nestled in a small basin to port as you pass the beach, but keep going and watch for the entrance channel to Maitland Valley Marina hugging the seawall to starboard just a little bit farther along. Inlet Marina primarily serves residents and doesn’t normally offer slips for transient boaters, whereas Maitland Valley does offer transient dockage and provides much easier access to the downtown core. Visitors without reservations should stop at the fuel dock for instructions or call ahead by phone or VHF 68. The marina
can normally accommodate about 40 visiting boats with a maximum length of 100 feet.
Like the approach into town, the route into the recreational boat harbor is also clear of obstructions, but it’s still a good idea to stay in the marked channel along the seawall, which is dredged to about 9 feet at normal water levels. Note that the Goderich harbor entrance can be subject to surge in strong northwesterly winds, so you’ll want to keep a firm hand on the wheel at all times if the wind comes up. For those towing their boat, Maitland Valley Marina has an excellent launch ramp. An additional launch can be found on the north side of the river off North Harbour Road, just west of the railway crossing.
The prettiest town
Once you tie up and settle in, it’s time to see what this prettiest town stuff is all about.
Goderich’s downtown core sits around a 10-minute walk to the southeast of the yacht marina, centered around the main town square properly known as Courthouse Park (or The Square). Now listed in the Canadian Register of Historic Places, the Goderich town square once housed the main
One of many lake freighters
Maitland Valley Marina party
Courthouse Square Park
Courthouse Square Park Performance Stage
office of the Canada Company, which helped to develop much of the county. Looking at an aerial view of Goderich, one still makes out the original town layout spreading from The Square in the shape of a Union Jack. Is it any wonder Queen Victoria approved?
Rimmed by a variety of restaurants, cafes and trendy shops, The Square is certainly the hub of activity in Goderich. A farmer’s market sets up shop in Courthouse Park each week from mid-May through October, offering a range of goodies from fruits and vegetables to meats, honey, cheese and preserves, to a variety of crafts produced by local artisans.
If you’re looking to stretch your legs after a day or two on the boat, The Square makes a great starting point to explore. One of the best ways to do this is by following one of three marine heritage walks curated by the town. A series of heritage plaques — organized into easy-to-navigate walking tours — identify and describe the key sites, including heritage buildings, stately monuments and key places that played a significant role in Goderich’s past. History buffs will love it.
One of the most popular sites among these heritage buildings is the Goderich Gaol, completed in
1842. Now listed as a Canadian National Historic Site, the gaol is the original town jail and courthouse. Constructed from limestone blocks quarried from the Maitland River, the gaol has housed several of Canada’s most notorious criminals over its history. That includes James Donnelly, patriarch of the notorious Donnelly family from the nearby village of Lucan. Accused of committing dozens of serious crimes during a 25-year span, the Donnelly family was so feared and loathed in their day that in the pre-dawn hours of February 4, 1880, a vigilante mob showed up at their farm, massacred everyone present then burned the house to the ground. For a less violent look into Goderich’s past, make a point of stopping by the Huron County Museum, located on North Street. Permanent exhibitions provide an enlightening and detailed perspective of Goderich’s history through the years, while temporary exhibits explore unique or seasonal facets of the local area.
For a serene stroll, explore one of a dozen local hiking trails, half of which are easy walks on flat groomed surfaces. The Rail Trail, the Falls Reserve Trail, the Morris Tract Nature Preserve, the
Millennium Trail, the Waterfront Trail and the Menesetung Trail to Sifto Loop each provide stunning views and the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of birds and small animals including foxes, red squirrels and chipmunks.
THE BIG STORM
The Big Storm of 1913 holds a special place in the annals of Great Lakes history as the deadliest November gale to date, killing more than 250 people and sinking or severely damaging 38 commercial ships on the Great Lakes. The greatest devastation occurred on Lake Huron where 202 sailors lost their lives, many of them subsequently washing up on the beaches at Goderich.
A severe storm that arrived over the lakes on November 7 brought hurricane winds gusting to 90 mph and huge waves, sending ships scurrying for cover. A second storm that arrived the following day promptly turned the winds 180 degrees, leaving vessels that were safely in the lee of the gale finding themselves on the wrong side of the lake and facing enormous waves up to 50 feet high. Heavy snowfall and driving spray quickly coated their topsides with thick ice, reducing stability even further in the mountainous seas.
In the aftermath of the storm, dozens of bodies were recovered from the shoreline near Goderich. Among the dead were crewmembers wearing life jackets from ships they were not assigned to, suggesting that at least some of these poor souls were rescued after their ship had gone down, only to wind up back in the water again when their rescuers also succumbed to the waves.
A monument remembering the victims of The Great Storm can be found in Goderich’s Cannon Park, along with a special tomb in Maitland Cemetery for the unidentified sailors recovered from Goderich’s shoreline.
Main Beach Shopping
Farmers Market
Goderich Gaol
Goderich is very much a town that’s all about enjoying public spaces, including its multiple parks. Bingham Park is uniquely dedicated to the monarch butterflies that gather there on their epic migrations each fall. A wide selection of natural plants used by butterflies makes Bingham Park one of the most serene and beautiful in town — leading to its popularity as a space for wedding photos. Even the children’s play structures are crafted with butterflies in mind.
Public spaces take on an extra bounce during any of Goderich’s frequent summer festivals. The Goderich Salt and Harvest Festival held the last weekend in August is a perennial favorite, along with the
SHIPWRECKS
Aside from victims of The Big Storm, Goderich has plenty of other wrecks to discover. No less than 57 wrecks are believed to lie in the immediate area around Goderich, which is no surprise given its history as a busy commercial port.
One of the most popular wreck sites among locals is the collection of vessels found off Rotary Beach, where at least five different ships lie in less than 20 feet of water. Look for a white boat fender around 200 yards offshore marking the location. Respectfully anchor a reasonable distance from the site and either swim or come in with a tender.
Multicultural Festival in late June, the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival in early August, and the Art In The Park Festival in July. The town maintains an online events calendar at EXPLOREGODERICH.CA with the latest news and dates. For something more in the flake-and-bake range, you can always just hit the beach. Goderich enjoys no less than three separate bathing beaches — Main, St. Christopher’s and Rotary Cove — each connected by a delightful waterfront boardwalk. For visitors with mobility constraints, mobimats provide secure access across the sandy beach right to the water, while beach wheelchairs and a floating water wheelchair introduced in 2023 support the town’s commitment to making its wonderful beaches accessible to all.
Rotary Cove Beach is where you’ll be able to enjoy the Celtic Blue Highlanders Pipe Band as they “pipe down the sun” every Friday evening during the summer. This annual summer tradition starts about an hour before dusk in July and August, with hundreds of people showing up each week to officially welcome the weekend. Bring a blanket and enjoy a truly unique way of ending the day.
Boredom not included
Once you’ve got the lay of the land, you’ll likely want to spend some time simply wandering Goderich’s downtown for a little retail therapy. Numerous curio shops, clothing stores, antique dealers and interesting little boutiques offer a wide range of unique and local fare, including original artwork and crafts.
Goderich’s appreciation of visual art is evident as you stroll the town, passing multiple galleries along the way. If you like art, you’ll want to make a point of stopping at the public library, which houses the largest collection of works from the renowned (and wildly eclectic) photographer R.R. Sallows. It’s impossible to not smile at Sallows’ whimsical approach to portraiture, in particular.
Visitors more interested in a bit of self-indulgence and personal pampering will find what they seek in Goderich. Allure Spa, on Albert Street, Natural Image Spa, on Victoria St. South, or Eden Springs Float Spa, on Orchard Line, each offer a range of rejuvenation therapies designed to put the bounce back in one’s step.
There’s also the Benmiller Inn
Huron County Museum Monarch migration
“Piping Down The Sun” Square Brew
and Spa, located on the Maitland River about 6 miles upstream from Goderich. You’ll need a taxi to get there, but upon arrival you’ll find the inn offers a full range of spa services along with comfortable overnight accommodations and a lovely restaurant, making it an appealing option for those who really need a night away from the boat. Have the roast duck breast, or give in to the beef tenderloin with butter-poached shrimp. You can thank me later.
That is one thing about Goderich: No matter what you do or where you go, you’ll eat well. For a town with only about 8,000 people, Goderich is blessed by an abundance of dining options, perhaps something to be expected given its proximity to Ontario’s single most productive agricultural region.
If you’re in the mood for some local Lake Huron fish, try the Park House, West Street Willy’s or Goderich Harbour Restaurant — all will leave you full and smiling. For more casual fare, try the perogies at Part II Bistro, or head for Beach Street Station for dinner with a view of the sun setting over the lake.
Thirsty? Square Brew, located you-know-where, is a wonderful and delightfully unpretentious craft brewery that serves up tasty pints made on-site. For something a bit different, check out East Street Cider Company, which offers seasonal ciders made from locally sourced fruit.
For a bit of after-dinner entertainment, it’s tough to beat catching a film at the Park Theatre. Built in 1950 and located right on the square, the 500-seat theater serves up a range of movies throughout the year, from classic gems to modern blockbusters.
Of course, no trip to Goderich would be complete without wetting a line. With a steady flow of nutrients flowing into the lake
courtesy of the Maitland River, the lakeshore around Goderich and the river itself provide excellent angling opportunities. Smallmouth bass, yellow perch and channel catfish can be found just about anywhere you can’t see bottom throughout the summer months, while in the spring and fall shoulder seasons, the colder water attracts rainbow trout and Chinook salmon. You can catch salmon year-round in the deeper waters offshore provided you have the right equipment, but local fishing guides can help if you do not.
Goderich is also a terrific port of call for the golfers onboard. Those itching to get out on the links will enjoy three local courses to try: Sunset Golf Club, the Maitland Golf Club and Woodlands Links. Each offers unique challenges and stunning views, capped by surprisingly attractive green fees to boot. With so much to see and do, and such a deep maritime history, it’s little wonder that Goderich attracts more and more visitors with every passing year. While Queen Victoria never made it to Canada’s prettiest town, there’s no reason you need to miss out. Mark a trip to Goderich on your cruise calendar and prepare to discover one of Canada’s most endearing boating destinations.
The town operates Goderich’s 180-slip Maitland Valley Marina and Resort Park, which offers gas, diesel, pump-out, municipal water, and 30-, 50- and 100amp power at each slip. There’s also ice, washrooms, showers, a swimming pool, picnic tables, a children’s play area, gas barbecues and Wi-Fi. The facility has 50 slips for transient boaters; reservations are suggested, but not always necessary.
It’s worth noting that the marina offers free transportation into town and to local restaurants. It has also put together a visitors’ guide with information on places to eat and local stores, services and attractions. MAITLANDMARINA.ON.CA • 519-524-4409
■ Argyle Marine & Small Engines
Located a 15-minute drive from town, Argyle Marine is a mobile repair service that works on all makes and models of boats. Argyle can also haul out vessels up to approximately 30 feet in length and bring them back to the shop for repairs or winter storage. Its marine store carries a large selection of engine parts, electronics, charts, rope, marine hardware and fittings, and cleaning supplies. ARGYLEMARINE.WIXSITE.COM/ARGYLEMARINE • 519-524-5361
LAKESHORE
By Abby Thorpe
ADDRESS
1627 South Shore Dr. Holland, MI 49423
SPECS
Bedrooms: 4
Baths: 3 full, 1 half
Square Footage: 3,674
Acreage: 0.70
Shoreline: 141 feet
Price: $2,300,000
CONTACT
Andrea Crossman
Coldwell Banker
Woodland Schmidt
616-218-0267
ANDREACROSSMAN GROUP.COM
DHolland, MI
Create your waterfront escape.
elivering some of the best views on Lake Macatawa, this charming ranch-style home offers idyllic waterfront living in Holland, Michigan. Built in 1955, the home boasts 3,674 square feet of living space with expansive views from the large windows. The impeccably maintained home features multiple updates, loads of natural light and a liveable, single-story floorplan.
Two fireplaces — one wood-burning and one gas — offer cozy warmth in the colder seasons, and four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms provide plenty of space for visitors.
Outdoors, entertain on the deck and patio. A large, flat and sun-drenched lawn provides room for relaxation and play, while 141 feet of private water frontage with a dock is the perfect place to enjoy Lake Macatawa. A sheet-piling seawall offers protection from the lake. Relax and play in the large in-ground pool — the perfect space for entertaining or
enjoying time with family and friends while soaking up beautiful views of the lake just steps away.
Situated on 0.70 acres of prime Lake Macatawa real estate, this property includes a generous building envelope for those who wish to design their own unique waterfront escape.
“Whether you choose to remodel the existing home or build your dream residence, the value lies in the land, with a generous building envelope extending just north of the pool area,” says the listing from Andrea Crossman of Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt.
Exploring Lake Michigan ports is easy and quick, thanks to the nearby Holland channel. Enjoy easy access to nearby attractions, marinas and restaurants, with downtown Holland less than a 10-minute drive away.
This charming mid-century home offers pictureperfect living on the lake, with limitless opportunity to create your dream waterfront escape, perfect for summers spent in true Pure Michigan style.
MARINA WATCH
By Abby Thorpe
1866 Ottawa Beach Rd.
Holland, MI 49424
616-786-2205
YACHTBASINMARINA.COM
AMENITIES
Transient slips: N
Pump-out: Y
Gas: Y
Diesel: Y
Lifts: Y
Launch ramp: N
Engine repair: Y
Hull repair: Y
Marine store: Y
Restaurant: Y
Showers: Y
Laundry Facility: Y
High-Speed Internet: Y
Pool: Y
IYacht Basin Marina Protected
water in Holland, Michigan.
n the sheltered Big Bay waters of Lake Macatawa, Yacht Basin Marina offers premier marina services with easy access to Lake Michigan.
Originally started in the 1950s by Bob Linn as Bay Haven Marina, the DenHerder family acquired the marina in the 1990s, obtaining sole ownership in 2006, and transforming it into the current vibrant, thriving Yacht Basin Marina. This year, the marina will celebrate its 70th anniversary, remaining locally owned and operated since its founding.
“Our marina is a place where lifelong friendships are made — it’s a destination for relaxation, socializing and escaping life’s stress,” explains Yacht Servicer Isaiah Mundy. “Our goal is to offer a welcoming, well-maintained and sustainable marina environment that makes every visit a memorable experience. Looking forward, we plan to continue growing and adapting to meet the needs of our clients, while preserving our roots as a locally owned and operated business.”
Yacht Basin provides a wide range of services and amenities, with over 350 slips for boats up to 70 feet, 200 in/out racks and lots of storage. A fuel dock and experienced service department is convenient for boaters in the Holland area, and the marina also provides a wide range of amenities, including multiple restaurant options, a pool, playground, grilling area, fish cleaning station, showers, laundry room, and salon and day spa. If you’re in the market for a boat, Walstrom Marine and Hinckley Yacht Sales offer an exceptional selection of boats. Members-only Bayshore Yacht Club is a haven for local boaters. Freedom Boat Club also operates out of the marina, offering guests access to the membership-based boating club.
Enjoy great service and amenities, or join in one of the fun events happening this summer, including Fishing with Veterans in July, The Big Red Classic Fishing Tournament July 31 to August 3, 2025, and the VanderLeek Cup Hospice Regatta on August 16.
YACHT BASIN MARINA
WANTED: LUXURY BOAT SALES PROFESSIONALS
Bay Marine Yacht Sales, a family-owned and second-generation boat dealership, has been a trusted name for over 50 years. With multiple locations across the Great Lakes and Southwest Florida, we represent a premium range of high-quality power boats, including center consoles, bowriders, offshore fishing boats, cruisers, trawlers, and luxury motor yachts.
LOCATIONS: Grand Haven, MI and Waukegan, IL
JOB DESCRIPTION: As a Boat Sales
Professional, you will have the exciting opportunity to sell and deliver a variety of high-end boats and yachts. This is an excellent position for someone who has a passion for boating, enjoys building lasting relationships, and thrives in a competitive, customer-focused environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Sell and deliver a diverse range of boats and yachts, from 18’ to 78’
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring long-term satisfaction and repeat business
• Capture and manage client data effectively, leveraging CRM tools to nurture both new and existing client relationships
• Demonstrate expert knowledge of the products you’re selling, including Bay Marine’s brands
• Take part in major boat shows across the Midwest and Florida
• Identify innovative ways to help grow and improve the business
• Be flexible with working hours, including weekends and holidays
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Previous marine sales experience is preferred but not required
• A passion for boating and the marine industry
• Self-motivated with a positive mindset and strong organizational skills
• Excellent communication and networking skills, with active involvement in the local community.
• Proficiency in CRM programs
BENEFITS:
Opportunity to work at major boat shows in the Midwest and Florida • Health, Dental, Life and Vision insurance • Short-Term Disability • Simple IRA with company match • Competitive commission pay/compensation, base on experience
TO APPLY: Please send a resume and cover letter to sales@baymarine.net.
If you’re passionate about boating and ready to take your career to the next level, apply today to join the Bay Marine family!
2023 FOUR WINNS H260 Check out this almost-new Four Winns H260. Gray with Mercruiser 6.2L 350-hp, only 10 hours on the engine. Tandem axle custom trailer, floor storage, anchor locker, head with sink, depth finder, docking lights, ski/wakeboard tower with Bimini top, JL Audio system, lots of under-seat storage, stainless steel cleats, swim platform and much more! Asking $98,986. Contact info: tom@ centerpointesales.com or 414-232-2955. CNT
2005 SEA RAY 200 SELECT Excellent condition, freshwater boat! Merc 5.0l B3, 357 hrs, dual battery. Bimini, travel & storage covers, stored on covered lift, heated garage, tandem trailer with folding tongue. Maintenance records available. Asking $22,500. Call/ text Brad @ 319-573-4008. APR25
2019 RANGER TUGS R-27 LUXURY EDITION Great Lakes only, nicely maintained and clean. Equipped with Yamaha F300, bow thruster, air conditioning with reverse cycle heat, AGM batteries, autopilot, Garmin with remote, swim platform rails, navigation package, Garmin 7612, 4kw HD radar dome, solar panel and much more! Asking $185,900. Call Chuck @ 734-497-3721. RYS
2023 PURSUIT DC 246 Fresh low-hour trade! On a trailer and ready for an adventure. Low hours on a Yamaha F300 (16 hours) and is properly equipped with the latest tech. Contact for more information or to set up an appointment to see at our Milwaukee location. Asking $159,000. Contact PJ Tamer for more information at pj@centerpointesales.com or 262-424-9627. CNT
2004 BOSTON WHALER 270 OUTRAGE Cruise or fish — this boat can do it all. Ready to go w/ twin Mercury Optimax 225-hp outboards, Fosgate stereo w/ Bluetooth, Bluave amps with 8 Bluave speakers, Icom VHF marine radio w/ antenna, Lenco trim tabs, NOCO Genius Gen Pro Dual Bank Battery Charger. Comes with Vantage tri-axle trailer. Asking $52,900. Call Bob @ 616-843-1225. RYS
2018 RANGER TUGS R-31CB LE Designed with comfort in mind, and gets you there with minimal stress. Electric windlass, Volvo D4 300 diesel engine, generator, Bimini top and more! Two cabins and ample space throughout. The comment is usually “I can’t believe that this is a 31.” Asking $295,000. Call Chuck @ 734-497-3721 RYS
2013 PURSUIT ST 310 SPORT Freshwater, 409 hours. Well maintained, buffed and waxed in July. Twin 4 Stroke 300-hp Yamaha outboards, Lenco trim tabs, Raymarine touchscreen electronics. Wraparound bow seating, ready to fish! Asking $169,900. Contact Chris DePrey @ 920-366-4320. BAY
2009 WINDSOR CRAFT 36 HARD TOP
Live the romance of the golden age of boating! Teak floors, rosewood dash panel and mahogany all around. Large galley cooktop and day grill. Power sunroof to enjoy a warm breeze on a perfect summer evening. Twin Volvo 5.7 Gi sterndrives with only 186 hours. Asking $239,000. Contact Chris DePrey @ 920-366-4320. BAY
36' 2022 BENETEAU ANTARES 11 FLY Excellent opportunity, 100% freshwater, well-maintained. Popular Beneteau model. Options include: joystick w/ autopilot, Panda generator, AC, Garmin elect. incl. radar, VHF, plotter. Full galley, 2 staterooms, head w/ separate shower. Asking: $389,000. Contact Joe today 414-7930195 or joe@centerpointeservice.com. CNT
Johnnie Walker Red 1940 25' Chris-Craft “Red and White” Express.
My 1940 25-foot Chris-Craft “Red and White” Express has been totally reconstructed and saved by Alan Mackie at Mackie Boat Works in Algonac, Michigan. My mom and dad also had a “Red and White” Express before their seven children were born while they lived in Windsor, Ontario, on Lake St. Clair (pictured on the right).
This boat was the same year as my parents’ and could possibly be the same boat, as both boats spent their whole life on Lake St. Clair. Both boats also had a raised windshield.
When I found the boat, it needed to be completely restored; however, it did float. The owner never had it in the water, as he was going to restore it but never got around to it. Before we transferred the boat from his trailer to mine, we put it in the water and that was the first time the previous owner saw it wet.
Another amazing part of this story is that the attorney who represented the second previous owner was the son of my dad’s best friend, who lived in Grosse Point, Michigan. I contacted him after I bought the boat and he helped me with some history. He also felt this could have been the same boat, as there were only a couple that spent their life on Lake St. Clair.
My dad’s name was Johnnie Walker and he loved his scotch whiskey — thus the name Johnnie Walker Red. Also notice the Pac-Man lettering, which was original to this boat in 1940, well before Pac-Man came out.
The boat is used at least two to three times every week in the summer, and we are often seen out on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day on Lake Huron. What a great boat!
