H U RO N | O N TA R I O | M I C H I G A N | E R I E | S U P E R I OR
APRIL 2018
RIVIERA 4800 SPORT YACHT DISPLAY UNTIL APRIL 30, 2018
TOUGH BODY, GRACEFUL DESIGN. p. 34
FOUR WINNS HD 200 OB FREEDOM Fun, affordable deckboat. p. 38
LOST TOWN OF SINGAPORE Did you know that Michigan has a town buried beneath the dunes? p. 46
GALLEY HACKS Tips and tricks for keeping the galley clutter-free. p. 42
PORT OF CALL Port Elgin, Ontario: Laid-back, tree-lined beach town. p. 50
SPOTLIGHTS FAIRLINE ★ TIARA ★ WELDCRAFT ★ WORLD CAT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Features Boat Test: Riviera 4800 Sport Yacht A perfect yacht for an imperfect world. by Capt. Tom Serio ...............
ON T H E COV E R
34
Boat Test: Four Winns HD 200 OB Freedom Experience the lifestyles of the rich and the famous at an attainable price. by David A. Rose ..........................................................
Gourmet Cruising Tips and tricks on stocking your galley. by Marty Richardson ...........
38 42
Michigan's Pompeii An archeological dig in Saugatuck, Michigan may soon reveal the dune-covered ghost town of Singapore. by Kim Racette ......................
46
Port of Call: Port Elgin, Ontario Maples, Gourds and Sunsets: Once known as the Town of Maples in reference to its tree-lined streets, Port Elgin, Ontario has long been a popular destination for Great Lakes boaters thanks to its delightful harbor, inviting beaches and one of the largest pumpkin festivals in the world. by Craig Ritchie ..................................................................
50
@ lakelandboating.com ★ Shop boats for sale by owner ★ Place a classified ad to sell your boat ★ Peruse dozens of exciting destination stories ★ Check out our most recent Boat Tests & Spotlights ★ Purchase our Great Lakes Cruising Guides ★ Access past issues with our online magazine ★ Stay current on all the latest Great Lakes news ★ And much more!
Sign up NOW for our weekly eNewsletter!
2
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Riviera knocks it out of the park yet again with its 4800 Sport Yacht — a tough-riding, entertainment-focused, eye-catching yacht designed to ply any water. Guests will fight over who gets to enjoy the aft deck, featuring a transom grill and windows that open to the salon. But down below, where you'll find two spacious staterooms, is just as alluring.
Departments
4 Dock Box ............................................................................................. 6 Calendar .............................................................................................. 8 Scuttle......................................................................................................... 10 Great Gear........................................................................................24 Don’t Hesitate to Renovate .......................................................26 Beneath the Surface .................................................................... 27 Electronics ....................................................................................... 28 Safety First ......................................................................................29 Boat Spotlights: Fairline, Tiara, Weldcraft, World Cat ......30 Marina Watch: Ludington Municipal Marina........................ 58 Lakeshore Life: Charlevoix, MI ................................................. 60 Marine Marketplace ...................................................................... 61 Classifieds ........................................................................................ 83 Classic Craft ................................................................................... 84 From the Helm ..................................................................................
PHOTO BY CRAIG RITCHIE
50
Fish & Cruise The 206CC is part of the STINGRAY deck boat line, but the versatility of this center console model has many labeling it as the ultimate fish and cruise package.
With seating for up to nine passengers, storage throughout, and a changing compartment that can be upgraded with an optional porta potti, the 206CC is ready for a full day of fun with family and friends! 206CC Deck Boat 20’ 1” | 100” beam | 2700 lbs (w/ popular engine) | 46 gal fuel capacity | 9 ppl, 2400 lbs VISIT STINGRAYBOATS.COM /206CC FOR MORE INFORMATION
FROM THE HELM
CONTRIBUTORS
BY KAT E B U S H
Earth Day is April 22. What advice can you give Great Lakes boaters for keeping Mother Earth clean and green?
On a Roll
Kim Racette
H
aving just returned from the 2018 Miami International Boat Show, I can attest to the fact that the boating industry is on a roll. The show had more boats in the water (about 700 to be exact) and an increase in attendance (more than 100,000 people) over previous years — and that was just at the Virginia Key show! See our roundup of our favorite debuts and innovation award winners (p. 12). The brief trip to Florida (yet somehow long enough for me to get a sunburn) and my morning water taxi commutes to the show were a spring tease. If only the Great Lakes boating season came sooner! While you count down the days to warmer months, take contributor Marty Richardon's advice on how to cleverly outfit your galley for maximum organization and efficiency (p. 42). She offers some great tips. Take that newly-stocked galley over to Port Elgin, Ontario for a weekend getaway (p. 50). Anchor up near the town's beautiful beaches, stroll the maple-lined streets, or visit in the fall to see some of the world's largest pumpkins. For those who love a little folklore, Kim Racette explores the history of Michigan's very own Pompeii —the lumber town of Singapore, which was buried by dunes in the late 1800s (p. 46). The now-hidden town may soon be uncovered thanks to some proposed (albeit controversial) development in Saugatuck. Cheer up...summer is right around the corner!
My personal favorite for keeping our lakes green and clean is to participate in local coastal and river clean-up programs. Make it a family outing and make it competitive! HHH
Craig Ritchie If you spot a piece of trash on the ground or in the water, pick it up. It’s amazing how often people walk right by debris, pretending they didn’t see it. If everyone picked up just one piece of trash, there wouldn’t be any left. HHH
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
Charlevoix, MI p. 60
Port Elgin, ON p. 50
Ludington, MI p. 58 Saugatuck, MI p. 46
4
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Marty Richardson If you subscribe to Lakeland Boating, you must love the Great Lakes. So, check the voting records of your elected representatives (local, state and federal). Have they supported programs to preserve, protect and defend this wonderful resource? Check initiatives like Great Lakes Restoration programs and funding for them, addressing issues such as the aging pipelines under the Mackinac Bridge and invasive species control. Do your elected representatives belong to Great Lakes senatorial and legislative caucuses? Make sure your vote goes to those who work to keep our Great Lakes great!
DOCK BOX
APRIL 2018 | VOLUME LXXII, NO. 4
PUBLISHER Walter “Bing” O’Meara
CANINE CREW
EDITORIAL STAFF Editorial Director: Kate Bush Assistant Editor: Sarah Kollmorgen
Zoey This is Zoey, our Bernese mountain dog, aboard our Carver Voyager. She’s always excited to meet dockhands when we pull into a slip! —Andy & Julie Strickland
CREATIVE STAFF Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs CONTRIBUTORS Helen Aitken, Glenn Hayes, Paul Kemiel, Capt. Frank Lanier, Kim Racette, Marty Richardson, Craig Ritchie, David A. Rose, Capt. Tom Serio, Robert Shapton, Heather Steinberger, Alan Wendt BUSINESS STAFF National Sales: Mark Conway Regional Sales: Patti McCleery Marketing Director: Linda O’Meara Accounting: Marguerite Wristen
Sir Winston Puppers Here is Sir Winston Puppers enjoying a beautiful day out on our 1986 19-foot Wellcraft on Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio. —Aaron Robbins
Calling All Canine/Feline Crew! We want to learn about your furry friends on-board! Send us a short write-up with your pet’s name and home city, as well as a high-resolution photo (at least 1 MB) to: staff@ lakelandboating.com. Please put “Canine/Feline Crew” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!
Everyone looks great in a Lakeland Boating hat! Need a gift for your favorite boater or yourself? Our Lakeland Boating hat is constructed from soft cotton twill for a great fit. Leather band adjustment in back with antiqued brass closure. Available in weathered navy, Nantucket red and khaki. One size. $24.95 + S&H. To order, call 312-276-0610 x22.
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! E-mail us at staff@lakelandboating.com or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 630 Davis St., Suite 301, Evanston, IL 60201. Opinions expressed in “Dock Box” are not necessarily those of Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 630 Davis St. / Suite 301 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 / Fax: 312-276-0619 STAFF@LAKELANDBOATING.COM LAKELANDBOATING.COM
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 630 Davis St. / Suite 301 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 x. 24 / Fax: 312-276-0619 CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM
SUBSCRIPTIONS P.O. Box 15396 North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396 800-827-0289 O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC. President: Walter B. O’Meara Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2018, 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: 630 Davis Street, Suite 301, Evanston, IL, 312-276-0610. • Call 800-827-0289 to subscribe. Subscription correspondence should be addressed to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615 (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. 894095074RT 0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $4.99 for U.S. and Canada. Only U.S. funds are accepted. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices. • POSTMASTER: please send address changes to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396. • 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 manufacturer, unless otherwise noted.
PRINTED IN THE U.S.A
6
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
WHO CARES ABOUT HAVING TOTAL CONTROL? THIS GUY DOES.
GPSMAP® 942xs
9”
INTUITIVE
TOUCHSCREEN
PRELOADED MAPPING
BLUECHART® G2 + LAKEVÜ HD
FULLY
NETWORK CAPABLE
COMPATIBLE WITH
FUSION-LINK™
© 2018 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Wi-Fi® is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.
ACTIVECAPTAIN™ APP READY
WITH BUILT-IN WIFI®
CALENDAR OF EVENTS BY KAT E B U S H
2
1000 Islands Clayton Spring Boat Show Clayton, NY
1
1000ISLANDS-CLAYTON.COM BOATSHOW
APRIL 7
Angry Bear Festival Marquette, MI
ORE-DOCK.COM/EVENTS/ ANGRY-BEAR-FESTIVAL
Gitchee Gumee Brewfest Superior, WI GGBREWFEST.COM
Kingston Craft Beer Festival Kingston, ON VISITKINGSTON.COM
APRIL 7, 14, 21, 28
Spring Blossom Trolley Tour Door County, WI DOORCOUNTYTROLLEY.COM
APRIL 13 – 15
Lubbers Cup Regatta 1 Spring Lake, MI LUBBERSCUP.COM
ADD YOUR EVENT
8
Visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/GREAT-LAKES-EVENTS to add your event to our Calendar of Events page!
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
‘Up North’ Lake & Cottage Show Traverse City, MI TCCOTTAGESHOW.COM
APRIL 19 – 22
Brown Trout Tournament Baileys Harbor, WI BAILEYSHARBOR.COM
APRIL 20 – 21
Northern Michigan Outdoor Expo Gaylord, MI
NORTHERNMICHIGANOUTDOOREXPO.COM
APRIL 20 – 22 Jeep The Mac St. Ignace, MI
STIGNACE.COM/EVENT/JEEP-THE-MAC
APRIL 21
Dairy State Cheese and Beer Festival 2 Kenosha, WI
KENOSHABEERFEST.COM
Hops on the Water Trenton, ON
HOPSONTHEWATER.CA
Spring Wine Fling Kelleys Island, OH
KELLEYSISLANDCHAMBER.COM
APRIL 21 – 22
Earth Day Faery Fest Huron, OH
MULBERRYCREEK.COM
APRIL 21 – MAY 12 Orillia Perch Festival Orillia, ON ORILLIA.COM
APRIL 26 – 29
Freeland Walleye Festival Freeland, MI
FREELANDWALLEYEFESTIVAL.COM
APRIL 27 – 29
Progressive Catawba Island Boat Show Port Clinton, OH CATAWBAISLANDBOATSHOW.COM
APRIL 28
Chocolate and Wine Walk Vermilion, OH VERMILIONOHIO.COM
Lakeside Spring Cleanup Day Lakeside, OH LAKESIDEOHIO.COM
APRIL 28 – 29
Owen Sound Home and Cottage Expo Owen Sound, ON OWENSOUND.CA
PHOTO 1 COURTESY OF LUBBERSCUP.COM; P HOTO 2 COURTE SY OF DAIRY STATE CHEESE & BEER FESTIVAL
APRIL 6 – 8
MUST-HAVE
SeaDek Announces New Patterns SeaDek has found a new way to make your boat project stand out from the rest with new designer laser-etched patterns. A fish scales pattern is the first in the series, and is available in 5 mm or 6 mm custom orders from a local SeaDek fabricator or installer. DIY boaters can also purchase the laser fish scales pattern in 5 mm large sheets (39 inches by 77 inches); it’s easy to cut the UV-resistant, non-absorbent foam material and stick it on decking, cooler tops, seating and more. The fish scale pattern comes in storm grey, mocha, Bimini blue and olive green. Keep an eye out for more designs in the near future. For more information, visit SEADEK.COM.
SCUTTLE Take a chance! Enter to win a five-day cruise aboard a Great Lakes freighter. The Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum will announce the lucky winner on July 4. The runner-up gets a Shepler’s Lighthouse Cruise. Enter at THEMACKINAW.COM.
ADD YOUR NEWS
10
|
BOATS
|
MUST-HAVE
|
BUZZ
|
BUSINESS
|
PEOPLE & PLACES
Ruling: Indiana Shoreline Belongs to All The Indiana Supreme Court has ruled that the Lake Michigan shoreline is public property. In a landmark case, the court ruled 4-0 that state-owned land extends up to the ordinary high water mark. This means private property owners cannot claim sections of beach between their homes and the water as private. Under the ruling, the court states that Lake Michigan was granted to the state of Indiana at statehood, and thus belongs to all residents. The ruling says that walking on the beach, at a minimum, is a protected public use. Upon publication, it had not been decided if this ruling would be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. BUSINESS
GREAT LAKES NEWS
Irish Boat Shop Opens in Traverse City
IRISHBOATSHOP.COM.
|
|
GREAT LAKES NEWS
The Irish Boat Shop is set to open a store in Traverse City, Michigan; the company president says this has been a goal for decades. The marine retailer will open at a former conference center at 2035 US-31. It will be the third location for Irish Boat Shop, joining Harbor Springs and Charlevoix. The new store sits on the waterfront and has views of the East Bay. It will specialize in boat sales and water-based accessories and toys, and potentially a small but growing service Email kbush@lakelandboating.com to add your company’s component. Visit Great Lakes news to Scuttle!
APRIL 2018
EVENTS
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Invasive Shrimp Found in Lake Superior
As if carp weren’t enough, invasive shrimp have now been found in Lake Superior for the first time. Although only a single shrimp was found, scientists confirmed the bloody-red shrimp (Hemimysis anomala) was found near the Allouez Bay in Lake Superior. The shrimp have been previously found in the other Great Lakes, and scientists are still trying to determine the impact of the shrimp on the environment. The bloody-red shrimp is a native of eastern Europe, moves in swarms typically, and avoids sunlight. Boaters are encourage to practice careful cleaning habits when moving between bodies of water to prevent the further spread of invasive species.
SHORELINE PH OTO BY TOM GILL; SH RIMP PHOTO COURTESY OF GLERL
GREAT LAKES NEWS
SCUTTLE
2018 MIAMI BOAT SHOW RECAP Miami Innovation Awards
■ Cabin Cruisers: 350 Realm, Boston Whaler, Inc. ■ Center Console/ Walkaround Fishing Boats: DC 365, Pursuit Boats ■ Consumer Safety Equipment (Dual Winners): Search and Rescue Yellow TD2401, Throw Raft; CrewWatcher MOB Alert, Weems & Plath
Boston Whaler
■ Docking and Fendering Equipment: Blue Isles Solar Docks, PowerDocks LLC
■ Propulsion Equipment & Parts: BOW-Proportional, Vetus Maxwell, Inc.; Honorable Mention: SurfPointe, Yamaha WaterCraft Group Company
■ Inboard Engines: 3JH40 Common Rail Inboard Diesel Engine, Yanmar Marine International B.V.
■ Electric Motor/ Battery Powered Propulsion/ Hybrids: PropEle Electric Boat Motors Inc. EP Carry, Annapolis Hybrid Marine
Seven Marine
■ Personal Watercraft: Sea-Doo GTX Limited Watercraft, BRP U.S., Inc.
■ Environmental Award: PlasDeck Eco Series, Plasteak, Inc.
■ Cuddy Cabin and Bowrider Boats: Sport 38 LS, Tiara Yachts
Honda Marine
■ Deck Equipment: Outboard Swivel Rigging Hose Connector Kit, Hardin Marine
■ Outboard Engines: 3.4L V6 Outboard, Mercury Marine ■ Personal Gear, Soft Goods: Super Watch Jacket, Grundens USA
Beneteau
APRIL 2018
|
■ Watersport Equipment: Frigid Rigid Pull Cooler, Rigid Boats
World Cat presented its new 280DC-X dual console catamaran, which, according to World Cat, combines, “the unmatched smooth ride of a catamaran with new levels of features and versatility that only a dual console design can offer.” (See page 33 for Lakeland Boating’s spotlight). WORLDCAT.COM Mercury Marine presented the 150 Pro XS, the quickest, lightest and most advanced in the series. And if that’s not enough, Mercury Marine has also introduced a whole new V-6 FourStroke outboard family, which includes 175-hp, 200-hp and 225-hp FourStroke outboards, as well as a V-6 200-hp SeaPro commercial outboard. MERCURYMARINE .COM Beneteau had its world debut of the GT50, which features a planing hull, Volvo IPS 600 engine power, a built-in retractable sun visor in the hardtop and modular side glazing. The model on display had two cabins and a lower L-shaped “cosy” lounge opposite the portside galley. BENETEAU.COM Hurricane Boats debuted five new models: The SunDeck 191 OB; SunDeck 217 OB; Sundeck Sport 192 OB; Sundeck Sport 192 RL OB; and Sundeck Sport 218 OB. All deckboat models feature conversationfriendly layouts at an attainable price point.
Seven Marine launched its Seven Outboard Portfolio, which features new 527- and 577-hp models, as well as a redesigned 627-hp model. These highpower outboards are built on the company’s 6.2L supercharged V8 platform and are offered with Seven’s new twin-prop CR (contrarotating) gearcase option. SEVEN-MARINE .COM Boston Whaler had three new boats on display: The Montauk 190, Montauk 210 and 380 Mercury Marine Realm. The new Montauk models join two previous versions unveiled last summer (the 150 and 170) as a total redesign. The 380 Realm is a new model with a center console layout that emphasizes seating and ease when moving about the boat. BOSTONWHALER.COM
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
HURRICANEBOATS.COM
Chris-Craft unveiled it’s all-new 28 GT, featuring a walk-through transom, a reversible sunpad that moves forward and backward for lounging, a dive door, a new upholstery pattern and a folding tower. The 28 GT is available with sterndrive or outboard power. CHRISCRAFT.COM
Marlow Yachts debuted its newest model, the 75E, featuring four staterooms, a large custom dining area and a commanding pilothouse. MARLOWYACHTS.COM
Marlow
12
■ Tow Boats: Xstar, MasterCraft Boat Company
New Product Announcements
The 2018 Miami International Boat Show was BIG: More than 1,100 exhibitors showcased 1,400 boats in the 1,000,000-square-foot show space, and more than 100,000 attendees from 35 countries shopped the deals. Lakeland Boating walked the docks to find the latest and greatest boats and marine accessories unveiled at the show. A few of our favorites are: Seakeeper took the Seakeeper 3 and made it even smaller. The Seakeeper 2 is 25 percent lighter, 20 percent smaller and designed for boats 27 to 32 feet. And it still eliminates 95 percent of boat roll. The Seakeeper 2 can be installed almost anywhere, including inside the leaning post. SEAKEEPER.COM Yamaha introduced its V MAX SHO 90, the smallest of the SHO family and among the strongest of all the 90hp outboards on the market. YAMAHAOUTBOARDS.COM Honda has redesigned three of its flagship motors, the BF200, BF225 and the BF250. All three motors feature Honda’s new “Progressive V Form,” which includes both aesthetic and technical enhancements. HONDAMARINE .COM
World Cat
■ Sailboats: Walk-Around Deck 490, Jeanneau America; Honorable Mention: 50, Leopard
PHOTOS BY KATE BUSH
Seakeeper
The NMMA and Boating Writers International (BWI) honored winners of the 2018 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show Innovation Awards, recognizing exceptionally ground-breaking new consumer marine products. The award winners are:
Boat insurance serviced by the boating experts. Get a fast, free quote today.
BoatUS.com/insurance | 800-283-2883 See how much you could save on boat insurance. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. Multi-Policy Discount available to auto insureds that have purchased a boat policy through the GEICO Marine Insurance Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. Š 2018 GEICO
SCUTTLE
BUZZ
ValvTect Awards Grand Isle Marina
Michigan’s very own Grand Isle Marina has received ValvTect’s 2017 Marina of the Year Award. This award recognizes a single marina not only for its commitment to business and to the community, but also for the exceptional qualities that set it apart among boaters and other marina operators. The award was presented to Grand Isle’s general manager, Brian Kaloper. Left to right: Paul Craufurd, Grand Isle is a full-service marina in Grand Haven ValvTect regional sales manager; Brian Kaloper, that offers a host of amenities and services to its general manager, Grand members and boaters, including wet slips and dry rack Isle Marina; and Marvin storage, engine service, canvas and carpentry shop, Griffin, president, ValvTect electronic installations, haul-outs and bottom painting. Petroleum Products. Since becoming a Safe Harbor location in 2016, the marina has undergone multiple changes, including personal parking for wet slip members and an indoor pool and spa. Currently, Grand Isle is remodeling its Ship’s Store and Fuel Dock, which is scheduled to be completed by late spring 2018.
BUZZ
Engage with the New BoatU.S. Advocacy Tool
SailTime, an online boat-sharing platform, will now be available in two new locations in Toronto: Port Credit and Outer Harbor. Steve McPherson, owner of the Ontario SailTime franchises, cites Ontario’s young population and Millennials’ love for the sharing economy as reason for bringing SailTime to the city.
BoatU.S. has made it easy for boaters to keep track and engage with state and federal legislation affecting boaters and boating issues. The BoatU.S. online Advocacy Tool serves as a one-stop legislative stop for concerned recreational boaters. On the website, boaters can track bills by state, find contact information for relevant elected officials, speak with policy makers, and advocate for policy issues in their community. For example, the Federal Action Alerts tool lets boaters find out if a particular bill requires public action or would have a significant impact on boating. The State Action Alerts tool lets boaters track bills in their state, as well as a bill’s status and sponsor. For more information, visit ADVOCACY.BOATUS.COM.
BOATS
Grand Banks 60 Skylounge The new Grand Banks 60 Skylounge is perfect for those who would rather be on their boat at all times, even in rough weather. The new enclosed bridge on the 60 Skylounge adds interior space for all-season entertaining while keeping the outdoors accessible thanks to windows offering 360-degree views. An L-shaped settee aft and to port make it the perfect place to socialize. The flybridge deck is constructed with carbon fiber, lowering the center of gravity and improving stability, fuel efficiency and speed. Standard power on the 60 Skylounge is a pair of 800-hp Volvo D13 diesels. This hearty but elegant model is available this summer. For more information, visit GRANDBANKS.COM. EVENTS
First Great Lakes Surf Festival
The inaugural surfing festival for the Great Lakes will be held on August 18 at Pere Marquette Park in Muskegon, Michigan. Organizer Joe Bidawid, a former professional windsurfer, says that all watersport enthusiasts — including surfers, stand-up paddleboarders, kayakers, windsurfers and more — are more than welcome to attend the Great Lakes Surf Festival. (Even couchsurfers are welcome to join the fun!) The one-day fest will feature workshops, free lessons, product demos, races, paddleboard yoga and a wave generator. Attendees will be able to purchase food, drinks and merchandise. Those who want the full outdoors experience can sign up for tent camping on Lake Michigan beach on the nights of August 17-18. Visit GREATLAKESSURFFESTIVAL .COM.
BUZZ
SkipperBud’s Dealerships to Offer Barletta Pontoon Boats
Barletta Pontoon Boats, a new pontoon company based in Bristol, Indiana, continues to make an impressive entrance into the boating world. Barletta has inked a deal with SkipperBud’s to distribute the company’s pontoons through its network of 17 locations throughout the Midwest. Almost immediately after its debut in January, Barletta received the 2018 National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Innovation Award for its L-Class series of pontoons. Mike Pretasky, Jr., head of Skipperbud’s, says Barletta approached him before they had even produced a real boat, but he was impressed with the company’s team and mission.
14
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
why we belong... COMMUNITY
DISCOUNTS
ADVOCACY
EXPERT ADVICE
We are the faces of BoatU.S. sail boaters and power boaters, new and seasoned, coastal and land locked. We are passionate about boating and we want to make the most out of our time on the water. That’s why we’re a part of the oldest and largest Association of boaters, because we know it’s better to belong.
$24 a year
JOIN US TODAY! BoatUS.com/Membership
SCUTTLE
GREAT LAKES NEWS
Grand Banks announced it will acquire Stuart Service Yard in Florida to serve as its official U.S. headquarters, consolidating its existing U.S. offices and storage. The marina will also replace the group’s existing rental facilities and berths, acting as a private dock and exhibition venue for its boats.
16
APRIL 2018
|
States, Ontario Join Coalition to Fight Carp BUZZ
Garmin Announces OneHelm System Garmin has made controlling all onboard systems a breeze thanks to its new OneHelm system. This integrated solution brings the power and convenience of controlling onboard boat systems like digital switching, lighting and stabilization to a Garmin multifunction display. The following companies are available for integration into OneHelm: Böning Ship Automation; CZone’s digital switching; Lumishore; The Carling Technologies OctoPlex system; Seakeeper; and Shadow-Caster LED Lighting. OneHelm is currently available for the GPSMAP 8400/8600 MFD series. To learn more, visit GARMIN.COM/ONEHELM.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Last year, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released a draft plan to prevent Asian carp from entering Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes. So far, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin and Ontario have joined the Great Lakes Basin Partnership to Block Asian Carp, in order to help cover the costs of the proposed plan. The Brandon Road Plan got its name from the Brandon Road Lock and Dam, a key choke point between the carp-infested Mississippi and Lake Michigan. The plan calls for an electric barrier, noisemakers, water jets and other devices to block the carps’ path. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2022 and be completed three years later. Some states are calling for construction to start sooner, as an adult silver carp was found in Chicago’s Little Calumet River, about 14 miles from Lake Michigan. Other states, such as Illinois, are hesitant to sign on. Illinois fears the project would disrupt a key area for freight shipping. Indiana, Minnesota, New York, Quebec and Pennsylvania have also not yet joined the coalition. Under the partnership, each state would contribute funds depending on how much of the Great Lakes they contain. For more information, visit BLOCK ASIANCARP.ORG.
fr
ONLY $72
FOR WORRY-FREE
BOATING ALL YEAR
am
t m o o r d o ee
BREAKDOWNS/OUT OF FUEL/JUMP STARTS/SOFT UNGROUNDINGS
Have no worries on the water...TowBoatU.S. is there when you need help.
GET THE BOATU.S. APP FOR ONE-TOUCH TOWING
WE’RE WITH YOU ON THE WATER 24/7 •
Towing details can be found online at BoatUS.com/Agree or by calling.
BoatUS.com/Towing 800-395-2628
SCUTTLE
BUZZ
BUZZ
Hop on West Michigan’s New CycleBoat
Boaters will be able to grab a drink with friends out on the water in west Michigan this summer. A pedal-powered “Cycleboat” is coming to Kalamazoo Lake in Saugatuck and will be available for rental starting Memorial Day weekend. The 16-person pontoon is BYOB, and has guests sit around a community bar in the center of the boat as they pedal around. A staff member is provided with each boat to steer. Cycleboats were first introduced in metro Detroit and Traverse City last year. Boaters can book a trip on the Western Michigan Cycleboat now for $450 to $530, depending on day of the week and season. For more information, visit WESTMICHIGANCYCLEBOAT.COM.
BUZZ
Boatsetter Launches New Website Boatsetter is bigger and better than ever following last year’s acquisition of Boatbound, officials say. The new Boatsetter website features inventory of more than 4,000 high-quality boats in more than 600 domestic and 66 international locations for boaters to rent out. The new website boasts technological updates leading to an improved search algorithm, better fleet management tools, insurance coverage integration and competitive pricing tools. Boaters on the go will appreciate a more reliable mobile user experience. Renters and owners will appreciate automated payments and instant booking capability. Reps say the startup is still growing and expects to become the industry standard for boat rentals and yacht charters. For more information, visit BOATSETTER.COM.
SWFY Adds Boat to Power Fleet
PHOTO COURTESY OF
Southwest Florida Yachts has expanded its power charter fleet with the addition of Couldn’t Wait, a Sea Ray 460 Sundancer. Weekly charter rates are $5,828 during the winter and $4,659 in the summer. Southwest Florida Yachts is offering discounts on charters and power/sail classes during 2018. May charters will be discounted by 5 percent, June charters at 10 percent and 15 percent off July, August and September charters of a minimum of three days. Classes held May 1 through September 30 are reduced by 5 percent. Find more information at SWFYACHTS.COM.
18
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
SCUTTLE
BOATS
On the tails of the Sea Ray 520 Fly debut, the all-new Sundancer 520 was unveiled at the Miami Yacht Show in February. This sister ship to the 520 Fly is bright, comfortable and powerful. Wide-open spaces with ample windows invite the outside in. Two lower level staterooms treat guests and owners alike to luxurious accommodations with abundant storage. An expansive lounging area and an optional sun shade make the bow the place to be. For power, the Sundancer 520 features Cummins QSC 600 engines coupled to Zeus pod drives featuring a joystick propulsion control with Skyhook. For more information, visit SEARAY.COM.
EVENTS
67th Indiana Governor’s Cup
MUST-HAVE
PlasDECK Introduces Eco Series PlasDECK, a synthetic teak boat decking company, has come out with a new eco-friendly line that lowers costs and upholds quality. The PlasDECK Eco Series looks the same as the classic PlasDECK decking, as its made of the same patented flexible PVC. What differentiates the Eco Series is a base layer, which is made up of recycled scraps from the PlasDECK factory. This recycled layer is black and at the bottom of the decking. Eco Series decking is not available with borders, but can be customized with engravings to reveal the black layer of recycled deck underneath. Boaters can purchase flooring by the sheet and cut it to size for DIY installation. PlasDECK comes in more than 20 colors. For more information, visit PLASDECK.COM.
Michigan native Andrew Tate scored his first victory on the Ohio River at the MainSource Bank Madison Regatta. The event was held June 30 to July 2, 2017 at the 67th Indiana Governor’s Cup race in Madison, Indiana. In the Final Heat race, Tate, in his Delta/ Realtrac sponsored hydroplane, passed Jimmy Shane, in Miss Homestreet Bank/Miss Madison, in turn one on the last lap to take the lead and secure the victory. In attendance was Tate’s father, Mark, a nationally-renowned Unlimited driver who was a Madison winner in 1995 and 1996. Tate was presented the Governor’s Cup trophy by Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb. —Paul Kemiel
ExtEnd Your Boating PlEasurE
Swim Platforms Inc. is the world leader in aftermarket fiberglass swim platforms, with thousands shipped to satisfied customers. We provide boaters with superior products and outstanding customer service. once you order one of our Swim Platforms, you will not only enjoy all the benefits of having the extended space on your boat — you will be the envy of every boater at the dock!
swim Platforms inc. 3220 S. 38th Street Phoenix, AZ 85040 602-431-8225
swimPlatforms.com 20
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
RACE PHOTO BY PAUL KEMIEL
Sea Ray Unveils Sundancer 520 at Miami Yacht Show
Call 800.669.6529 moorings.com/lakeland
unwind Life doesn’t come with a reset button, but an undocked vacation without limits could be the next best thing. Out here, sitting on the edge of the world, carefree living comes naturally and undisturbed paradise beckons in every direction. With every breath, capture another unforgettable moment on the water, and unwind— one blissful exhale at a time.
SCUTTLE
BOATS
Aquila Debuts Fishing and Dive Model Aquila wants anglers and diving enthusiasts to know: They have a boat for you. In addition to the Aquila 48 and Aquila 44, the power catamaran manufacturer has unveiled a new fishing and diving edition of the Aquila 36. The new edition includes handy updates, such as a spacious livewell, lots of storage with knife and tool holders, fishing rod holders, a large fish box, dive tank storage and an integrated dive ladder. Layout standards, including two cabins with private ensuite heads, remain the same. Boaters also have the option to upgrade to a second BBQ, more refrigerated space and extra storage. For more information, visit AQUILABOATS.COM.
BUSINESS
Manitowoc Marina Purchases Nestegg Marine
Manitowoc Marine, a family owned full-service marina, has bought Marinette, Wisconsin-based Nestegg Marine. “Almost every aspect of the Nestegg’s business mirrors Manitowoc’s current operation,” says Manitowoc Marina’s president, Rich Larsen. “From boat sales, service and storage to marina dockage and onsite ship store, we feel our experience and attention to customer satisfaction made this a logical extension of boating passion. We are all very excited to earn the trust of the Nestegg community.” All of Nestegg’s current staff will remain. Building and grounds improvements plans are also already underway to help beautify the current Nestegg site. For more information, visit MANITOWOC-MARINA.COM.
Ronco Plastics holding & water tanks
established in 1976, Ronco Plastics has made holding tanks for the auto, marine and RV industries for 40 years. The company, based out of Tustin, California, currently offers more than 500 tanks to the marine industry. Ronco is dedicated to providing fast, friendly service and ensuring their customers are provided with exactly the tank they need. All tanks are made in the U.S and made of non-toxic, FDA accepted, high-density polyethylene. Marine tanks are available in capacities of 3 to 280 gallons. Ronco’s complete mold shop is available for custom tooling and prototype work, including custom molds or O.E.M tanks for almost any boat or recreational vehicle. n n n n n n n n
Holding and Water Tanks New Systems Auxiliary Systems Replacement tanks for Powerboats, Sailboats and Houseboats Made of non-corrosive polyethylene One-piece seamless construction Heavy wall density construction One-year limited warranty
Ronco-Plastics.com 714-259-1385
22
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
BareSkin Quick Dry Towel Toss your towel that stays wet hours after a boat outing. The lightweight BareSkin Quick Dry Towel does just as its name implies: Dries quickly. It also sheds sand quicker than traditional terry cloth towels. The synthetic material can hold up to three times its weight in moisture and continues to work even when damp. Towels stay soft and are naturally antimicrobial. Available in light blue, tan and pink, and in many sizes, from a small Go Towel to a large Yoga Towel. FROM $17.99 TO $55.99 AT BARESKINTOWEL .COM
GREAT GEAR MUST-HAVE GOODIES AND GADGETS FOR EVERY BOATER .
Dooney & Bourke Regatta Boat Shoes The dock is your runway with the newly-launched Dooney & Bourke Regatta Boat Shoe. These classic, premium leather shoes are hand-sewn in Portugal and feature Italian leather uppers, solid stainless steel hardware from Switzerland, a cork-lined foot bed and durable, anti-slip rubber soles. Men and women’s sizes available in seven colors, including black, biscuit, navy and paprika. Order 1/2 to 1 size larger than you’d normally wear. $135 AT DOONEY.COM
Shurhold SMC Cleaner
TACO Marine Transom Cross Tie Power-loving boaters will appreciate TACO’s new Transom Cross Tie cleat device, which ensures the ability to get dock lines up and away from outboard motors when tying off at the stern. The patent-pending latch mechanism at the base allows easy insertion and locking hold into standard open-bottom rod holders. Extra features, like a center hole for adding a fender at the dock, provide multiple use applications in a single, stowable product. AT TACOMARINE .COM
XPS Marine Engine Oil The line-up of XD engine oil for Evinrude and Johnson outboards has been rebranded as XPS Marine. The engine oils are offered in three products: XD100, XD50 and XD30. The XD100 Synthetic Formula Direct Injection Oil is made for Evinrude outboards. XD50 Synthetic Blend 2-Stroke Outboard Oil is designed for any Evinrude or Johnson outboard that specifies a TC-W3 oil. XD30 Premium Formula 2-Stroke Outboard Oil is formulated for 2-stroke engines that specify TC-W3, API TC or JASO FB certified oils. AT XPSLUBRICANTS.COM
What does SMC stand for, you may ask? Serious Multi-Purpose Cleaner! This powerful, professional-grade degreaser and stain remover contains no bleach, so it’s safe on a wide range of surfaces, including: Vinyl, nonskid, carpet, teak, rubber, plastic, glass, metal, paint and fiberglass. Simply spray on and wipe off. For tougher stains, let the solution sit for three minutes. $11.98 (32 OZ .) OR $29.98 (1 GAL . CONCENTRATE) AT SHURHOLD.COM
Pettit Pontoon Pro Bottom Paint
ADD YOUR GEAR
24
Email kbush@lakelandboating.com to add your awesome product news to Great Gear!
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
There’s nothing worse than a dirty toon. Designed specifically for pontoon boats and aluminum hulls, Pontoon Pro cleans and protects those precious bottoms. Combines the breakthrough, metal-free Econea biocide with a powerful slime fighting agent. Copper-free formula can be applied over all bottom paints and will not cause galvanic corrosion. Selfpolishing ablative paint film eliminates buildup or the need to sand between coats. One or two coats per season are recommended for optimal performance. $199.99 AT DEFENDER.COM
Photo By Joe JohnSon
La
ad bef k ve ore eL nt p a ur la n Br e nn d ow or in bo s bu g y a e yin ou ti g r n nG yo ex ur t .C ne cru om xt isi bo ng at !
Do you love the Great Lakes as much as I do?
We know you love the Great Lakes as much as adorable Charlie. Keep up with all the scuttle at LakeLandboatinG.Com: Don’t miss the latest Great Lakes news and events, the coolest Ports of Call to explore, and boats for sale by owner. See you there!
DON’T HESITATE TO RENOVATE BY C A P T. F R A N K L A N IE R
Boat Health The basics of oil sample analysis.
B
Common OSA Tests Spectral Exam: The oil is vaporized and sent through a spectrophotometer to measure the concentration of various metals and additives at each light wavelength (color). The lab correlates those light levels with the amount of each metal present in the sample. This test is useful in determining excessive wear in pistons, bearings, cylinders, valve train and gears. Viscosity Test: The thickness of the oil sample is tested at various temperatures. The test is useful for finding fuel dilution, breakdown of viscosity enhancers or other oil contaminates. Insolubles Test: Insolubles are generally abrasive solids. Elevated readings typically indicate incomplete combustion. Flash Point: As the name implies, this test checks the temperature at which vapor from the oil sample ignites. Contaminants can cause a specific grade of oil to flash higher or lower than the designated flash point.
CAPT. FRANK LANIER is an award-winning journalist, boat maintenance guru and owner of Capt F.K. Lanier & Associates, Marine Surveyors and Consultants: CAPTFKLANIER.COM .
26
APRIL 2018
|
lood tests are a routine part of many physical exams. Such tests are a valuable tool in checking your overall health and hopefully heading off potential problems via early detection. The same is true for testing your boat engine’s “life blood,” or oil. An oil sample analysis (OSA) not only tells you about the current health of your engine or transmission, but can also warn of potential future issues before they become critical, saving you money and preventing premature failure. The magic of oil The oil that’s so unceremoniously dumped into your boat’s engine is actually a modern marvel of engineering. In addition to providing lubrication, oil also neutralizes corrosive acids generated during operation and cleans internal engine parts of wear material, keeping these contaminants in suspension until removal. The amount of materials and toxins suspended in the oil eventually reaches a level where it begins to affect the oil’s ability to properly lubricate the engine. At this point, it’s time for a transfusion (aka oil change), presenting a great opportunity to test the old engine “blood” for problems. OSA reports An OSA evaluates the types and quantities of metal suspended in the oil, as well as other contaminates (water, antifreeze, fuel, soot, etc.). The report generated by the lab will list contaminants and wear metal (metal that’s worn off of interior components), and flag any suspected issues. In addition to explaining the results, the lab report will also state possible causes of any flagged issues, along with recommendations on how to address them. Sampling kits OSA kits can be easily purchased online or at many local heavy equipment dealers. Costs typically run between $20 to $30. Mail-friendly testing facilities, such as Blackstone Laboratories (BLACKSTONE-LABS.COM) , are popular choices. Blackstone, for example, offers an oil sample kit and analysis for $28 (including shipping) with a 24- to 48-hour turnaround time. OSA kits include a collection bottle with screw-on lid, an information label to be completed by the person taking the sample, a length of plastic tubing, and packaging to mail the sample to the lab. You can also purchase a reusable hand-operated pump to draw samples via the dipstick tube or opening. The one from Blackstone Laboratories uses a vacuum to draw oil into the sample container, which screws into the body of the pump. In this design the oil never touches the pump, eliminating the need to clean it between uses; however, you’ll want to replace the intake tubing, which can be purchased at most hardware stores.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Taking the sample The key to taking oil samples is avoiding contamination. This ensures the sample accurately represents the condition of the fluid in the engine or gearbox. Sampling faux pas include taking a sample from the pan after the oil is drained, allowing the suction tube to touch the bottom of the oil pan when sampling, and reusing tubing or sample jars. You’ll want to follow the instructions from the manufacturer of your OSA kit; however, the following general steps will be useful when taking any sample. ■ Run the engine (don’t just idle it) for about 20 minutes before taking the sample to warm the oil to operating temperature and suspend the particulates. ■ If you’re taking a sample while changing the oil and have access to the oil pan, let about ¼ of the oil drain out before taking your sample. Avoid sampling the first or the last oil out of the pan to avoid samples with excessive contaminates. ■ If you can’t access the pan, then you’ll need to use a pump. Remove the cap from the sample bottle and place it in a clean location to avoid contamination, then screw the sample bottle onto the pump. Cut a section of intake tubing, one long enough to allow you to be in a comfortable position while operating the pump. Insert one end of the tube into the pump and tighten the seal per the pump instructions. ■ The suction end of the tube will be threaded down into the engine (typically 2 to 3 inches) to draw the sample. Before doing this, pull the dipstick, place it beside the tubing, and mark off the length of the dipstick on the tube using a marker or piece of tape. This allows you to gauge how far to insert the tube to withdraw a sample without touching the bottom. Contaminates are more concentrated at the bottom and sampling there will result in skewed readings. ■ Pump the required amount of oil into the bottle (most laboratories will request around 2 to 3 ounces), keeping the pump level during operation. When finished, unscrew the bottle and replace the lid securely. ■ Complete the oil sample information slip. Generally, information requested will include a unit number or name (i.e. port engine, generator, etc.), type of oil, number of hours the oil has been in service, and the amount (in quarts) added between oil changes. ■ Place the bottle and label in the provided container and mail or return it to the equipment dealer you purchased it from. Conducting a regular OSA helps maintain your engine, and the maintenance log of testing it can be a valuable sales tool — one that helps demonstrate the vessel has been maintained by a conscientious owner. ★
OIL CH ANGE PHOTO BY CAPT. FRANK LANIER; SAMPLING KIT PH OTO COURTESY OF BLACKSTONE LABORATORIES
(Above) A perfect time to conduct an OSA test is during a routine oil change. (Right) OSA kits make oil testing simple and easy.
BENEATH THE SURFACE BY HEAT HER ST EI N B ERGER
Here Comes the Sun Although it’s often overlooked, sun protection is an important safety issue for boaters.
I
MIKE PHOTO COURTESY OF SURESH AD E; KIDS PH OTO BY DIANE SELTZER
f you’re a boater, it’s not exactly a news flash that you’re going to be spending a significant amount of time in the sun once the summer season arrives. You’re probably not too worried about it because you carry plenty of sunscreen and hats, and honestly, we’ve come a long way since the baby oil tanning days of the 1970s and ’80s. But here’s the thing: Boaters spend an average of 5.7 hours on the water per outing, and we’re not always aware (or we forget) that we receive an additional 10 percent of ultraviolet (UV) exposure reflected from the water. Then, there’s the additional 10 percent reflected from the boat itself. That’s a lot of UV radiation. Without protection, you’ll burn in about 20 minutes. Raising awareness “Everything is amplified when you’re on a boat,” says Diane Seltzer, marketing director for SureShade, a manufacturer of telescoping boat shade systems, and its Sun Safe Boating initiative. “With reflections from the water and the fiberglass, you’re getting a double whammy. People don’t realize how it adds up.” SureShade launched Sun Safe Boating in spring 2016, along with Sunbrella Marine and the National Safe Boating Council. Lakeland Boating participates as well, as a media partner. To support its public-awareness campaign, Sun Safe Boating has designated the month of July as Sun Safe Boating Month, and it has connected with Winner’s Circle Charities, founded by Baseball Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt. As a longtime boater and a skin cancer survivor, Schmidt supports the initiative through sharing his personal story and promoting sun safety on the water, including tips on how he protects himself. “From the beginning, our goal has been to make this a top-of-mind issue, to put light to it as much as possible,” Seltzer explains. “Our mindset has changed over the years. We’re more health-conscious, and we do have a better understanding of the long-term impact of sun exposure. Unfortunately, people aren’t really talking about it — or acting on it.” Seltzer says the organization hopes to raise awareness at the industry level, as well as among the boating public. “Sun protection tends to get overlooked when we talk about safety issues on the water,” she says. “As an industry, we need to talk about more than just life jackets.” Important tips for sun protection If we were being honest, a lot of us would admit that we put sunscreen on in the morning. Some of us reapply once more during the day (maybe). We wear our hats, and we call it good. We need to do more. “We advocate an integrated approach to sun safety,” Seltzer says. “It works best.”
✔ Wearing sunscreen is a given, but here’s the twist: No matter what you’re doing, be sure to reapply every two hours. ✔ Wear sun-protective clothing. That means in addition to sporting a hat, include a long-sleeve cover-up in your boating wardrobe. SPF protective clothing is best. ✔ Protect your eyes with UVA/UVB sunglasses. ✔ Seek shade whenever possible, particularly between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun is most intense. ✔ If your boat doesn’t currently have an onboard shade solution, start exploring the available options. You won’t regret it. “Adding shade had always been an afterthought,” Seltzer says. “In fact, before SureShade came along with its retractable sun-shade systems, most builders didn’t even have a factory option. They left it up to boaters to come up with a solution, if any.” Today, a variety of integrated shade solutions are available to boat manufacturers, dealers and boat owners. Those solutions are deeply appreciated when you want to continue enjoying the outdoors rather than heading indoors or below decks. Sun safety for children If you have children, their safety on the water is your top priority. You insist they wear their life jackets, you make sure they always have “one hand for the boat,” and you watch dockside and boat-ramp entries and exits like a hawk. When it comes to sun safety, it’s helpful to have a checklist for each child. In the chaos that inevitably ensues as you rush to get out the door in the morning, it’s easy to overlook something. ✔ Kid-friendly sunscreen. Choose SPF 30-50 products that are mineral-based (rather than chemical-based) with a higher percent of zinc oxide. Try to avoid the sprays; while convenient, these don’t provide uniform protection, and some of the ingredients aren’t advisable for the lungs. ✔ A wide-brimmed hat, preferably with an adjustable drawstring so you won’t be fishing it out of the water at some point during the day. ✔ UVA/UVB sunglasses. No, most of us didn’t wear sunglasses on the water as kids — but back then, we didn’t fully understand the potential for eye damage. We do now. ✔ SPF protective clothing (cover-ups and swimsuits). This provides great protection for all ages, and they’re the preferred alternative to sunscreen for infants younger than 6 months. ✔ Umbrellas. If you don’t have an outdoor shade option on your boat, these will work in a pinch. ✔ Books, games and toys. When the kids need to spend a little time out of the sun, they’ll appreciate having something fun to do. You’ll appreciate it too. To learn more, visit SUNSAFEBOATING.COM. ★
(Top): Mike Schmidt, Baseball Hall of Famer and melanoma survivor, is now a huge sun safety advocate and works with SureShade on its Sun Safe Boating initiative. He’s pictured here underneath a SureShade system. (Bottom): It’s essential for children to wear sunscreen, protective clothing and sunglasses while out in the sun.
HEATHER STEINBERGER is an award-winning writer/ editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 20 years. Visit her website at WRITEONLLC.COM.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
27
ELECTRONICS BY G L E N N H AY E S
Pre-Season Prep Outfit marine electronics with the latest upgrades.
T
(Top) Navionics plotter sync. (Middle, from left to right) Navionics SonarChart Live, Shadow Highlight and Fishing Range in action. (Below) Updating cartography can be done with a micro-SD card or via Wi-Fi on a Simrad NSS Evo.
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 trave ling the world. He can be reached at HAYESSTUDIOS.COM .
28
APRIL 2018
|
The once-over Boat owners prepping their craft for the new season should perform standard pre-season electronics checks, such as inspecting batteries, and ensuring all connections are tight and clean. Make sure mice or other animals that may have wintered in your craft didn’t chew through any wires. It’s also important to give your transducers the once-over to ensure they are clear of any growth obstruction and bottom paint that is not specifically for transducers. If the transducer is an in-hull variety, check that it’s fastened firmly if glued in place. If you have an in-hull tank, confirm the tank is full of mineral oil or appropriate liquid and that it hasn’t seeped out or evaporated. Software updates Two important ways to prep your onboard electronics are with software updates and electronic chart updates. Paul Michele, national sales manager for Navionics, says: “Updating software before the season will give the plotters the newest features available.” Some of these features might include chart upgrades with extremely detailed crowd-sourced cartography, such as SonarCharts offered with Navionics cartography. According to Michele, if you already own Navionics cartography you can obtain an upgrade from the Navionics website (NAVIONICS. COM), which will allow you to get daily updates that provide “the latest fishing and safety data for the start of your season and the ability to update anytime during the year.” Michele says other features include advanced map options, which give the ability to highlight shallow water areas with red dots to avoid grounding. There is also a fishing highlight where specific depths can be shown with selectable ranges. These features are available, along with highly-detailed bathymetric depths, allowing for detail not previously available. Navionics collects
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
thousands of logs from the community (to which everyone can contribute), so updating your chart and turning on the SonarChart layer will access 1-foot contours that could be from information submitted as recent as yesterday. If you don’t already have Navionics, your machine may be able to update with a new card or download. If it can’t be updated for Navionics, try a software update that can allow charts with greater detail and features offered by other chart providers. If you own a recent model Simrad, Lowrance or Raymarine that has Wi-Fi capability, Michele says: “Boaters can update their Navionics mobile app and do some pre-planning on routes and fishing spots from anywhere and connect via Wi-Fi to the plotter.” You can then update the chart while connected to the chartplotter via Wi-Fi and transfer all your planned waypoints over as well. You can create dock-to-dock autoroutes and upload them in your plotter from the comfort of your home. 3D transducers Other software updates may allow for the addition and use of advanced transducers, such as one of the many 3D transducers offered by various manufacturers. Some require a module to add 3D capability, while others require a software update and specialized transducers. The variety of transducers offered and the necessary hardware and software required can be a bit confusing, so call the manufacturer’s technical helpline. Tech support should be able to get you a list of all the software and hardware required to bring your fishfinder into the 3D world. Some displays may not have 3D upgrade capability but can accept a wider range of other transducer offerings. Switching to a newer transducer can, in some cases, vastly improve the images and fishfinding capability of your display. Again, it’s advisable to call the manufacturer to find out what will and will not work with your fishfinder display. With better charting and fishfinding capabilities, the upcoming season on the water can be the best yet. Searching for and implementing these updates can make a difference this season. ★
PH OTO ON LEFT BY GLENN H AYES
he boat has been in winter storage for months and a great boating season is on the horizon. It’s now time to get everything ready and inspected so you can have a trouble-free time afloat come summer. Apart from all the standard maintenance and checks, onboard electronics need to be included on your pre-season checklist to vastly increase their performance.
SAFETY FIRST BY HEL EN A I T K EN
Wipe On, Wipe Off Safe alternatives for hull cleaning.
C
leaning a boat’s hull is a necessary chore that’s easier to do immediately after boating. But if you wait until later, cleaning it will take more effort and be more expensive. Gelcoats dull over time because of the environment and pollutants, so commercial products make cleaning easier and reduce work time. It’s important to follow boat manufacturer directions and to use every cleaning product correctly. Why clean the hull? Jeff Deaton of Deaton’s Yacht Service, Inc. (DEATONS YACHTSERVICE.COM) has 35 years of experience detailing fiberglass powerboats, sailboats and pontoons ranging from 17 to 100 feet. “Mother nature never takes a day off — she’s always working on your boat,” he says. “You have to work against her to keep it looking good.” Even if the boat is completely covered or stored, the hull still needs attention to remove algae growth, scum or dirt. Contaminants, pollutants or alien creatures are not only unsightly but may also be transferred to other waters if the hull is not clean. Cleaning types Cleaners span the spectrum from corrosive to biodegradable, handling specific or a broad spectrum of items. Confused? Ask your marina for recommendations and do your research. Forums may offer advice; however, many suggested cleaners can damage gelcoats, like mixing soap with bleach or ammonia, or using toilet bowl cleaners, which are toxic to marine environments. Avoid microabrasive cleaners like kitchen and bath products meant for tile, grout, or showers; their particles scour surfaces. Also avoid magic pads to “erase” scuff marks — these are equivalent to 80-grit sandpaper that will etch fine lines in the gelcoat. Biodegradable products Boat soaps are formulated for gelcoats. Environmentally safe biodegradable soaps don’t contain phosphates or toxic chemicals. Try white vinegar (acetic acid) on small surfaces. Avoid using citrus-based cleaners, strong detergents or bleaches. Products should list all their ingredients, not just what’s missing. Expect many of these products to take longer to work, and prepare for repeated applications and elbow grease. Biodegradable products to consider are Simple Green Marine (SIMPLEGREEN.COM), Slimy Grimy (SLIMYGRIMY. COM) and Star brite Sea Safe Hull Cleaner (STARBRITE.COM). Cleaning methods Simple cleaning methods may work best, and pressurized water may help loosen debris. On a wet surface, use a tiny amount of boat soap as a degreaser/surfactant with a synthetic sponge or soft cloth and apply elbow grease to remove stains.
If soap doesn’t cut it, products with muriatic acid (hydrochloric acid), like MaryKate On & Off (CRCINDUSTRIES. COM), should be used. Purchase muriatic acid by the gallon and dilute it for greater savings. Follow the directions precisely, and wear protective gloves and eyewear. If this product comes in contact with skin, wash it off immediately; clothing may get ruined if exposed. Leave muriatic acid on the surface for a few minutes and then rinse it well. Do not leave the product on for longer than the recommended time. Professional process Deaton applies a small amount of boat soap with muriatic acid on a small area of the hull using a wash mitt over protective gloves. He then washes the surface from right-to-left, then back. The hull is then rinsed well, dried with synthetic shammies, coated with a liquid wax applied with a flat hand, and then buffed with a lamb’s wool pad. Stock only the products you need. “I try to minimize the number and types of chemicals being used on a boat [for different cleaning purposes] to minimize cross contamination,” Deaton says. “Never put bleach and ammonia together — that creates ammonium chloride, which can cook someone. At the end of the day, it’s good old-fashioned elbow grease and a few choice products that do a fantastic job. There’s no magical formula, just the right techniques and products used correctly.” Where should you clean your boat? Wash down the boat in a designated area, using plenty of water. If you trailer your boat, completely clean the boat before moving to other water. In the Great Lakes (except around Lake Ontario), there are 164 clean marinas with specialized holding tanks for boat washing. This is perfect for DIY or professional detailing. Otherwise, clean the boat where runoff will not flow directly into the water. Last words “New boats coming off the floor need a good wax before getting in the water — it will protect the hull longer,” Deaton says. “Then boats need a continual maintenance program. When you neglect your boat for long periods of time, the only way to get it cleaned is through restoration, a cost that probably exceeds the cleaning costs otherwise done. Inland water boats and those stored inside should be detailed once a year.” When buying a used boat, the hull offers the first clue as to how a boat was treated. If the appearance is poor, what else hasn’t been taken care of? Brokers spend money detailing boats to make more money, so maintaining the hull’s appearance is worth the effort for value and esthetics, even for the DIYer. ★
HELEN AITKEN is a boating writer, photographer and science educator from eastern North Carolina. She loves classic wooden boats, is a U.S. Power Squadron member and plays in the Intracoastal Waterway. Visit her website at HELENAITKEN.COM.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
29
BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY A L A N W E N DT
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 55'6" Beam: 14'10"
An elevated experience.
Draft: 3'11" Weight (dry): 23.69 tons Fuel Capacity: 637 gals. Water Capacity: 145 gals. Base Price: Contact dealer FAIRLINE .COM
DEALER Spring Brook Marina Chicago, IL; Seneca, IL; Fish Creek, WI; Traverse City, MI; Eastlake, OH SPRINGBROOKMARINA . COM
815-357-8666
30
APRIL 2018
|
Fairline Squadron 53
T
hose who enjoy longer vacations aboard will find a luxurious home on the water in Fairline’s new Squadron 53, featuring three- or four-stateroom layouts, a sizeable flybridge and phenomenal performance. Built on Fairline’s successful 53-foot hull, the new design from the deck upward embodies the builder’s tagline, “Every Perfect Detail,” through its incredibly detailed woodwork, rich textures, fiberglass technology and high-end materials. “There are countless customization options,” says Kyle Stenzel of Spring Brook Marina. “Not many production manufacturers are willing to accommodate the custom requests of a discerning buyer. Fairline will.” Choose from three galley placements: Traditional down, up forward or aft. Added headroom in the master is a welcome change down below. A framed, quilted pattern headboard, solid yet soft-curved nightstands and rich paneling bring a sense of tradition and warmth to the full-beam master. Those high-end touches extend throughout. A single-level sole ties the lower helm station and salon with the aft deck seating. A cushioned, horseshoe-shaped
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
aft lounger positioned around a sturdy teak table provides yet another space for entertaining and relaxing. There's one more surprise: A hidden fold-down bench seat built into the transom that’s connected to the swim platform. The foredeck features a welcoming European design: A single step up to a centerline walkway with a secluded circular lounge area. An optional Bimini (supported by four poles) is available for those moments when you're anchored in an idyllic setting. Flybridge owners understand the sense of command that comes from an elevated helm station. Fairline has two options — triple helm seats or the standard companion helm seat — to create more room for an adjacent sunpad. Both layouts incorporate an enormous L-shaped aft lounge centered around a hi-low teak table and feature a bar unit complete with refrigerator and sink. This elevated space is an excellent venue for sunny days underway and an even better area for privacy while entertaining dockside. Powered by twin Volvo Penta shaft drive diesels, maximum speed ranges from 30 to 34 knots depending on the horsepower you desire. ★
BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY A L A N WEN DT
Tiara C53 Coupe
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 54'6" Beam: 15'11"
A game changer.
O
ne has to admire the daring innovation in the breakthrough Coupe series by Tiara, a company often cautious to change. Sporting a seductive profile with a curved hardtop, the new C53 Coupe adds 30 inches to the running surface over its predecessor. These extra inches create a “hat trick” that significantly improves social zone seating, refines the structure of the optional hydraulic swim platform, and creates a spot in the engine room for a Seakeeper 9 gyrostabilizer, the latest must-have. “We change something only when we can clearly see how it benefits our customers,” says Tom Slikkers, president and CEO of S2 Yachts, Tiara's parent company. Social zoning — another buzzword of the decade — requires a blend of interior design with the deftness of a politician working a cocktail party. This is where the C53 Coupe scores a major victory, with forward bow loungers, a signature aft cockpit and an expanded salon. Inside, the extra room allows for a larger L-shaped lounge on the port side, a convertible companion seat and a loveseat aft of the helm. A high-gloss teak table rotates 90 degrees on a hi-low pedestal to create more dining space without impeding the centerline
Draft: 4'3" Weight: 42,770 lbs.
walkway. The companion seat can slide forward and aft, and the backrest easily converts as well. Warm teak, stainless steel finishes and ultra-leather accents complement the salon interior. Subtle improvements to the aft cockpit include a softer appearance to the molded-in, forward-facing lounge and a hi-low actuator for the cockpit table. Aft-facing seats on either side of the sliding doors include a cooler below and storage. The “Star Trek”-worthy Garmin integration glass cockpit comprised of two 16-inch displays features armrest grid control for switching between mechanical and navigation screens. Volvo’s dynamic positioning joystick offers effortless control while docking or underway. Powered by twin Volvo IPS 950s, the C53 Coupe reaches a cruise speed of 30 mph with a 300-mile range. Below deck, owners can choose a two or three stateroom configuration. Select a pantry/washer/dryer space or over/under bunk stateroom. With the latter, the washer/dryer combo moves to the full-beam master. A forward VIP scissor berth and second head offer couples and families luxurious privacy. Global styling and exceptional value make this Tiara flagship a distinctive masterpiece. ★
Fuel Capacity: 650 gals. Water Capacity: 150 gals. Power: T-Volvo D11 IPS950 Base Price: Contact dealer TIARAYACHTS.COM
DEALERS SkipperBud's SKIPPERBUDS.COM
855-895-7960 Walstrom Marine WALSTROM.COM
231-526-2141
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
31
BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY A L A N W E N DT
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 24'2" Beam: 102" Weight: 2,625 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 65 gals. Power: 300-hp Base Price: Contact dealer WELDCRAFTMARINE.COM
DEALER
Reed Yacht Sales Grand Haven, MI 616-842-8899 LaSalle, MI 419-304-4405 Racine, WI 414-651-3100 REEDYACHTSALES.COM
32
APRIL 2018
|
Weldcraft Maverick 220 DV Heavy-duty family boats.
A
berdeen Proving Ground tests military weapons. Detroit is famous for its General Motors test tracks. But where does one go to test a heavy gauge welded aluminum boat? The answer is the confluence of the nefarious Snake and Clearwater rivers just outside Clarkston, Washington. That’s precisely where Brent Reed and Matthew Bolt from Reed Yacht Sales found themselves testing Weldcraft’s newest models this winter. Yes, winter, because cold water, rocky bottoms and rapids can do things to a hull that no fiberglass builder would dare recommend. Weldcraft, a leader in heavy gauge welded aluminum boats since 1968, has models from 16 to 30 feet that come with a lifetime hull warranty. The boat’s construction stands out, including a one-piece, continuous side/gunwale combination; it's formed from a single sheet of aluminum for strength and appearance, with solid aluminum chines for faster planing. “We took the Maverick 220 DV Partial Hard Top out and were blown away by the speed, stability and maneuverability,” Bolt says. “A 32-degree bow deadrise slices through chop, which softens the ride without compromising performance.”
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
The extreme bow deadrise quickly tapers to 28 degrees where the hull meets the waterline and to 18 degrees at the transom. By mounting the outboard on an external bracket, there's a boost in speed and extra space in the cockpit. That space is important in the fishing market for mounting a pair of downriggers, customizing angled rod holders for trolling and keeping the sole clear for passengers. “Don’t forget to mention space for wakeboards and inflatables,” Reed says, noting the industry trend where family water activities dominate. The Maverick 220 has two swivel captain’s chairs on adjustable pedestal bases and 47-inch bench seats on storage boxes mid-deck that offer comfortable seating for a family. Carpeted side walls, side storage trays, side rod racks and stainless-steel cup holders provide the necessities. On the 220 and 240 Mavericks, a heavy-duty top with side curtains and backdrop folds down for those days when the sun is warm. Like all boats, there are many options. A rear bench seat and bow seating, bow livewell, washdown system, and a swim step with three-step folding ladder add tremendous versatility and make both models great all-around family boats. ★
BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY A L A N WEN DT
SPECIFICATIONS
World Cat 280DC-X
LOA: 27'6" Beam: 9'2"
Fish hard. Drive smooth.
E
ven in the boating world, there is room for the phrase “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” World Cat knows that catamarans aren’t the sexiest boats; but as any true romantic knows, looks aren’t everything. Take the new World Cat 280DC-X for example. Based on the wildly successful launch of the 280CC-X, designers took the obvious attributes of a cat — a soft ride, high speed performance, better than double the fuel economy of a traditional boat — and began sketching ways to soften the outward appearance of a shape that is rectangular. They added a modern frameless windshield and upgraded upholstery, included a stand-up head, did a nip/tuck to exterior lines, and ended up with selling features no one else can claim. First, there is more stability at rest. Buoyancy is found in the outer edges of the boat instead of the middle. That translates into less roll when drifting or trolling and superior stability when entertaining at the dock. Cats don’t draw much water, which is an advantage if you operate in skinny water. Fuel efficiency is outstanding. With a pair of twin Yamaha F200s and a full load of 220
Draft: 14"
gallons of fuel, the 280DC-X gets 2 mpg at 30 mph, and better than 1 mpg at a wide-open speed of 49 mph. World Cat beefed up the helm with a Garmin interface, and an optional Optimus 360 electronic steering and joystick. Because its outboards are spaced wider than a traditional dual console, the boat is easy to maneuver in tight quarters. The joystick makes the task simple for novice skippers. Enter the water for swimming, diving, fishing or watersports from a dedicated swim platform with a built-in stainless ladder featuring hoop-like handrails. This makes reboarding safe and easy for those of us who find telescoping ladders physically challenging. Standard equipment includes a leaning post with a 30-gallon livewell and tackle stowage, wraparound bow seats with insulated stowage below and twin 355-quart fishboxes that double as rod lockers. Easy mechanical access to pumps, hydraulics and batteries is located through a hatch in the cockpit sole. World Cat’s 280DC-X is an all-around family boat that can fish hard and deliver a smooth ride and solid performance. ★
Weight (dry w/ T-200s): 7,250 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 220 gals. Water Capacity: 16.5 gals. Base Price: Contact dealer WORLDCAT.COM
DEALERS Catawba Moorings 419-797-4775 CATAWBAMOORINGS.COM
Central Marine 800-538-2164 CENTRALMARINE .CA
Traverse Bay Marine 231-943-4400 TRAVERSEBAYMARINE.COM
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
33
BOAT TEST
Riviera 4800 Sport Yacht
A perfect yacht for an imperfect world. by Capt. Tom Seri
34
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
I
PHOTOS COURTESY OF RIVIERA
n a perfect world, scheduling sea trials would go as initially planned. Trying to get on the Riviera 4800 Sport Yacht proved a daunting trial in itself. The scheduling was delayed, the yacht was not in the planned location, the yacht was needed at the Miami Boat Show, the company rep was out of town, etc. Alas, I was able to get on-board a mere two days before the story’s deadline. The aforementioned issues actually afforded me two things: To meet the local dealer who was a wealth of Riviera information and to test the 4800 on a not-so-spectacular day. That in itself was gold as I was able to see first-hand the attributes of the 4800 in 4- to 5-foot seas, as well as in calm waters. With an eye on the white-capped sea as we headed towards the inlet, I told Rick Young — general manager of Grande Yachts International in Dania, Florida (with additional locations in Jupiter, Miami and Deerfield Beach) and my new friend who bailed me out — to forget it as I didn’t want to bang up his yacht. I might as well have been speaking to a deaf guy. Young pointed the 4800 square into the confusion, telling me how the yacht will handle the mess. You know what, the 4800 performed exactly as Young described. It wasn’t a white knuckled ride but rather a sure-footed, solid and quiet ride.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
35
Numbers game
While sitting next to Young in the portside dual helm leather bucket seats, I did not detect any creaking, squeaking or other sounds that would indicate inferior construction, even from below. Entry into the charging waves was soft without pounding or bone-jarring. When I asked how the yacht was able to run in these conditions, Young explained that Riviera properly balanced the hull by pushing the twin 600-hp Volvo D8-IPS800 engines farther forward for better weight distribution, with the pods connected via jackshafts. The engine locations also allow for a large garage that can house a tender. Grabbing a few speed numbers, the 4800 was running within range of Riviera’s performance chart. Mind you these were not the best conditions for getting numbers and I did not run reciprocal courses, but Young hit 1,940 rpm for a speed of 15.1 knots and 28 gph combined. Pushing the Volvo throttles, we saw 23.2 knots at 2,430 rpm with 42 gph, and 31.4 knots at 3,000 rpm and 64 gph. Checking the Volvo Penta engine display, Young pointed out that once the 4800 is up and running, the IPS drives with forward-facing props, and the “distance remaining” display stays pretty constant as rpm changes. You can run to your favorite destination knowing how far you can go without drastic swings.
Stately rooms
Riviera has designed the flush main deck and lower accommodations with families, cruising couples and owner/ operators in mind — with a few surprises. Below are the staterooms, with a master in the forward peak. Satin varnished walnut cabinetry surrounds the walkaround queen berth. Hullside windows bring in ambient light. A cedar-lined hanging locker is to starboard. An ensuite head includes a glass shower stall with teak-capped seat, basin sink and Vacuflush head. The guest stateroom is midship with three single beds (the two on the port side can slide together for a double bed). It’s a neat addition for an extra couple or a few kids. This full-beam stateroom has hullside windows with portholes on both sides. Guests can use the dayhead, with glass shower stall, Vacuflush head and basin sink. Swap the linen closet with an optional washer/dryer. The atrium lounge Riviera designed into the center area of the lower level is a nice surprise. With more than 6 feet of headroom and light pouring in from the open staircase and hull windows, the L-settee is the perfect place to hide out below deck without having to be in a stateroom. Stretch out with a book, lazily gaze out the window, watch TV or enjoy your own “time out,” away from the activity above. Of course you can relegate the kids to the atrium while the adults enjoy up top.
The main attraction
Speaking of up top, the flush main deck is enclosed and can be opened to enjoy those spectacular days on the water. Side salon windows open, the aft door slides to port and a large bulkhead awning window swings up. The electric sunroof over the helm also slides open and allows for air flow through the salon. Essentially, you can have the wind in your hair and
36
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
enjoy the outdoors while inside. The aft deck is covered by an extended awning with side curtains that help to reduce wraparound spray. Seating is across the transom bench settee or on the starboard L-settee with hi-low electric table. All seats are well padded with comfortable backrests. To port is a wetbar with an Isotherm icemaker and Vitrifrigo fridge, sink and Corian countertop. Access the transom grill station from the hydraulic swim platform; here you’ll find dual cooktops, a food prep area, a backsplash and hatch-mounted lights for evening use. Keep your balance with the stainless grabrail that runs the width of the area.
Grand central
For additional meal prep, there’s a portside galley just inside the salon. With the 4800 opened up, this becomes the entertainment focal point. Any meal can be crafted in this galley that’s complete with high-end appliances, including a Frigidaire convection microwave oven, a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher, a Whale two-burner electric cooktop, three Isotherm fridge/ freezer drawers, a deep stainless steel sink and plenty of Corian counter space. Riviera designed dedicated drawer space for the eight-person dining set. Crystal water, wine and rocks glasses have dedicated space in the cocktail cabinet. Interior dining takes place at the starboard leather U-settee with wood table. It’s on a raised platform that allows for better views out the windows and adds a little height to the guest stateroom below. Location is everything, and the forward part of the dinette is across from the portside helm, allowing for the operator to stay engaged with their guests.
At the con
Tucked forward to port is the helm station. Riviera’s inhouse design team did a great job designing the ergonomic station, with exceptional line of sight and access to the controls and Volvo Penta dual Glass Bridge multifunction displays. Throttle, joystick and Garmin mouse are on the left arm console, with the 7-inch Volvo Penta engine monitor display to the right. It’s a clean design with flush, lighted buttons for key operations like horn, bilges, sunroof and lights. What adds to the ease is the CZone digital switching system that replaces switches and fuse panels, making operations like getting ready to cruise or departing the yacht essentially a single button effort. As previously mentioned, the twin Volvo Penta engines are set forward in the engine room. But it still affords some room to get below and have full access to the fuel filters, raw water strainers, pumps and other maintenance items. A 17kw Cummins Onan generator is centered between the engines. Other niceties on the 4800 are the second control station on the port aft deck, large sun loungers on the bow with a fold-away sun awning and timber finish Royal Oak flooring inside. As Rick Young put it, this yacht is designed for everybody, from those coming down from larger yachts to owner/operators and newbies to yachting. With joystick operation, there’s a quick learning curve. And with the Riviera pedigree built into every yacht, it may just make your world a little more perfect. ★
Riviera 4800 Sport Yacht SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 50' Beam: 15'1" Draft: 3'10" Weight: 42,000 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 555 gals. Water Capacity: 106 gals. Power (tested): T-Volvo Penta D8IPS800 600-hp engines Power (standard): T-Volvo Penta IPS700 550-hp engines Base Price: Contact dealer RIVIERA .COM. AU
DEALERS Bay Marine BAYMARINE .NET
847-336-2628 Lake Michigan Yacht Sales LAKEMICHIGANYACHTSALES.COM
231-439-2675 Onekama Marine, Inc. ONEK AMAMARINE .COM
231-889-5000
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
37
BOAT TEST
R U FO Experience the lifestyles of the rich and the famous at an attainable price. BY DAVID A. ROSE 38
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
S N N I W
P HOTOS COURTESY OF FOU R WINNS
HD 200 OB Freedom
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
39
...the champagne of boats that even those with a beer budget are still able to enjoy.
I
n the 1980s and ’90s, Robin Leach hosted “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous,” a TV show telling tales of, well, the lifestyles of the rich and famous. Many episodes ended with a scene of the well-to-do on their appointed vessel as a summer sunset fades into the horizon. And the host’s signature catch phrase at the end of the show? “Champagne wishes and caviar dreams.” There’s no doubt that at some point in our lives, we’ve all yearned for a taste of the good life. Maybe not a life of sipping bubbly and nibbling on salted eggs from some rare sturgeon every day, but one of at least motoring along on a picturesque lake or anchored up along the edge of a sandbar in the comfort of a stylish, well-built boat. When I stepped onto Four Winns’ new HD 200 OB Freedom this past fall, the latter is what first came to my mind. But I must admit, it took a little imagination. It wasn’t a lack of comfort; it wasn’t an absence of craftsmanship; it was more the weather on that particular day I put the vessel through the ringer. It was cold. It was windy. And, every so often, it rained. It was the kind of day you’d look out at the lake and say, “Maybe we’ll go boating tomorrow, instead.” But the impending cold front conditions were ideal for a test ride and really allowed me to put the HD 200 OB Freedom through her paces. “Four Winns — the name has always been recognized with producing only the highest-quality boats,” says Doyle VanderPol, marketing manager for Groupe Beneteau Americas. “The HD 200 and HD 200 OB Freedom surprise a lot of people; once they see the price tag, their response is usually ‘I’m able to get into a Four Winns for only how much?’” To put it simply, the Freedom line is the champagne of boats that even those with a beer budget are still able to enjoy.
Creature features This Four Winns deckboat series consists of two models, one sterndrive and the other rigged for an outboard motor. The HD 200 Freedom has two inboard engine offerings, from a 4.5-liter 200-EC/Alpha 200-hp MerCruiser to a V6-200C/DI/SX 200-hp Volvo. The HD 200 OB Freedom — which is the model I tested — comes standard with a 115-hp Four-Stroke Mercury or F155XB Yamaha outboard. Both models have loads of power to pull any waterskier or tuber, and to get you and your guests back to the dock should an impending storm suddenly appear. Speaking of guests, the Freedom’s 20-foot, 1-inch length and 8-foot, 3-inch beam allows up to 11 people to be on-board when powered by an outboard, and 10 people can be on-board with the sterndrive. The amount of family, friends and water toys that can come along to enjoy the good life is impressive, indeed. The Freedom’s interior is comfortable for everyone. Massive cushioned seating wraps around the HD’s classic
40
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
round bow, each cushion flipping up easily to reveal cavernous amounts of storage space. Toward the aft, a hinged L-shaped lounge seat allows for an easy sit or sprawl, and the storage space underneath has enough room for a large cooler and so much more. An optional porta-potti can be installed under the port bench seating to make all-day excursions more pleasurable. The Bimini includes a large privacy curtain. In-floor storage between the dashboards allows even more gear to be packed under foot yet out from under your feet. Cushioned captain’s chairs provide a stable ride for the pilot and copilot; both have flip-up fronts to create a well-padded bench-like sitting platform to bolster the occupant and raise one’s line of sight up and over the windshield. Four Winns’ signature low-profile windshield encompasses the cockpit of the HD 200 Freedom line, and finishes off the boat with a sporty, classic look. I can vouch from the undesirable day I powered her around the lake that despite its sleek design, the windshield offers more than adequate protection from the elements. A curved dashboard and stainless gauges, toggles and switches are just a few things that add to the aesthetics of the interior. There is also thoughtful placement of cup holders and power ports to fulfill everyone’s needs.
The ins and outs Personally, the most important consideration of any vessel is whether you can get in and out of the craft without worrying about taking a nosedive into the drink. The HD 200 OB Freedom passed that test with flying colors, as the integrated rear deck allowed for effortless entry. While there’s plenty of room on the swim platform for watersports prep, there’s an optional extension that can be added for even more space. When the wet ones climb back into the boat from the swim platform or optional bow ladder, the Freedom’s Water Intrusion Management System (WIMS) has water draining from its floor in seconds. The Freedom’s 20-foot, 10-inch frame allows it to be launched and loaded easily at most any boat launch. Options are endless when it comes to the waterways you can explore. The vessel has a 40-gallon capacity for fuel to boot, so no matter where you go there will be no worry of refueling.
Sip and nibble Even in such inclement weather, my test drive was pleasurable. While my lifestyle may never make it on one of the episodes of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous,” spending a day within the gunwales of the HD 200 and HD 200 OB Freedom had me feeling as if it should be. As for the champagne wishes and caviar dreams, I’ll leave the sipping of sweet bubbly and nibbling of gooey fish eggs up to others. ★
Four Winns HD 200 OB Freedom SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 20'1" Beam: 8'3" Draft: 18"/35" Weight: 3,200 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 40 gals. Person Capacity: 11 Base Price: $32,073 FOURWINNS.COM
DEALERS SkipperBud’s 847-201-4040 SKIPPERBUDS.COM
Hall’s Sport Center 231-733-2433 HALLSSPORTCENTER.COM
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
41
PHOTO COURTESY OF BACK COVE
PHOTO BY KATE BUSH
GOURMET CRUISING
42
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM P HOTO COURTE SY OF RE GA L
P HOTO BY M A RTY RI C HA RDS ON
Tips and tricks on stocking your galley. by Marty Richardson
B
oaters are a unique breed. We spend an inordinate amount of time and money buying the perfect boat, fancy sails, powerful engines, and all the latest-generation, high-tech navigation equipment. But once you have the boat, what about setting up your galley for gourmet meals aboard? Captains and crew expect first-rate cuisine to magically appear at the right time, preceded by delectable appetizers and cocktails, followed by some wonderful dessert concoction and aperitifs. If you make your galley shipshape, you can provide that ultimate culinary experience for all aboard.
Outfitting your galley
How do you decide what your galley will feature? Your first step: Get the basics so you can make all the recipes you can’t live without. If your morning starts with a good cup of java, you’ll need to select a coffee maker. A blender is a must-have for most boaters to mix up summer cocktails or nutritious smoothies. Consider what you like to cook and your favorite dishes, and make room for the equipment necessary to prepare those dishes. What about pots, pans, utensils and small appliances? Unlike many homes with expansive kitchens and pantry space, boat galleys are often referred to as “one butt” or “two butt” — a reflection of the limited space. You probably won’t be able to store all the equipment and gadgets you enjoy at home. To conserve space, I lean toward multi-use appliances. Remember that a one-cup-at-a-time coffee maker takes up more room than a percolator. While a slot toaster is the ideal way to make toast, it doesn’t bake muffins; my galley has a small toaster oven, which does both and more. I don’t have galley space for storing an electric crepe maker, a large wok for oriental dishes, a crock pot, rice cooker or panini maker. Instead, I opt for heavy gauge, non-stick frying pans in three nesting sizes with sloped sides, which can serve up anything from crepes to wok-inspired dishes to yummy omelets, including my popular One Pan Boat Breakfast (see sidebar on p. 44). To top all the pans, I have one large, universal lid. LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
43
Rather than finding room for Bundt, angel food cake, springform and tart pans, plus a Dutch oven and roaster, stick with the bakeware basics. I stock two round cake pans, two pie tins, two bread pans, two cookie sheets (also good for pizza), one brownie pan and one 9-by-13 casserole dish; many nest together. Nesting items are key space-savers — think mixing bowls (colorful ones can also stand in for serving bowls), pots and saucepans. Electric appliances can take up an excessive amount of room. Think about stocking your galley with combination, multi-purpose appliances. My classic (old) Oster, for example, has a power base with various toppers that plug into it: A blender, a mixer, a food processor, etc. If you don’t have room for a rolling pin for making pie or pizza, I’ve found a rum or other straight-sided bottle does the trick.
Glass, metal or plastic?
The material of kitchen tools used will depend in large part upon your appliances. For baking pans — as I have a microwave convection oven — I look for the most versatile material, usable in all instances. For this oven,
RECIPES One Pan Boat Breakfast (Serves 4) 1. In a large non-stick frying pan, cook 1/4 lb. of diced bacon and half diced onion until tender and slightly browned. 2. Add 1 cup of leftover, diced and cooked potato (baked or French fries) and continue cooking until browned. 3. Meanwhile, scramble 4 eggs with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt. Pour into frying pan. Do not stir, but let egg mixture flow evenly. Continue to cook on low heat. 4. When partially set, sprinkle shredded cheese liberally on top. Cook until melted. 5. Serve up in pie-shaped slices, accompanied by toast or other breakfast bread. 6. Garnish with a grinding of black pepper or spicy salsa, if desired. Embellishments: Feel free to add whatever sounds good from your refrigerator: Colorful peppers, green onions, shrimp or lobster, ham, asparagus — you get the idea!
Peach Cobble Up (Serves 6) 1.
Mix 2 cups Bisquick baking mix, 2/3 cup milk, 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
3. Drain one 29-ounce can of peaches, reserving 1 cup syrup. 4. Arrange peaches on mixture in pan; pour reserved syrup over top. 5. Bake at 400°F until golden, about 40 minutes. 6. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream. Embellishments: Use any canned fruit in place of peaches, or use fresh fruit with compatible fruit juice to substitute for liquid from canned fruit.
44
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
PH OTOS BY MARTY RICHARDSON
2. Spread in a 9-inch square or round pan.
COOL GALLEY GADGETS • Take nesting to a new level with collapsible/nesting items, like measuring cups, colanders, mixing bowls, funnels, graters and dish drainers — even silicone bakeware. • Special salt and pepper shakers have snap lids with pins that keep the tiny holes clear — perfect for high humidity nautical environments. • Salad spinners, while handy, take up lots of space. Here’s an alternative: A cotton bag with drawstring. Mine’s called The Greens Keeper. Just rinse the lettuce, insert in the bag, take outdoors and swing it around at arm’s length. Store in the refrigerator for fresh, crisp greens. It launders easily, then stores in no space at all. • Green boxes, like the Debbie Meyer brand, help produce last longer.
• Most boats don’t have a dishwasher, so you’ll need a good draining rack; look for the collapsible type. For overflow after dinner parties, I like a thin foam and fabric drying pad; place on the countertop to drain and air dry the extra dishes. • Soda takes up a lot of room in cupboards or in the refrigerator. Consider a compact soda machine, like Sodastream. Or use dry noncarbonated mixes, like Crystal Light, and mix as needed.
it’s glass, which works in both the convection and microwave mode. While breakable, oven glassware is quite durable. I store it with a protective towel between layers. Melamine is often used for dinnerware; however, it usually isn't safe for microwave use, and I have found that it's not unbreakable. A big storm sent my melamine flying like Frisbees around the cabin, resulting in a new set of Corelle — and new latches on cupboard doors! While Corelle is not unbreakable (really, what is?), it’s quite durable and microwave-safe. Plastic, insulated Tervis tumblers are the go-to nautical drinkware; you can even microwave soup in them. However, after five years of full-time cruising, we became tired of cocktailing “in plastic” and have lovingly bubble-wrapped two Waterford glasses for occasional elegance.
Galley gourmet food storage tips
When cruising away from your home port, remember which items hold up best when stored, and plan menus accordingly. ■ Broccoli and regular or Napa cabbage keep for up to three weeks or more in the refrigerator. ■ Grapes have a good shelf life when kept in the refrigerator, but protect them from being crushed. ■ Apples and citrus have a good shelf life in a well-ventilated area. ■ Washed and chilled lettuce can be kept for about one week in the refrigerator; if fresh from a farmers market, it may keep up to two weeks. ■ Onions and potatoes are good staples, but don’t store them in the same bin or container as they will rot. ■ Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature to preserve flavor, but they must be refrigerated once cut. ■ At the beginning of an extended trip, start with all meats frozen and thaw as needed. ■ Milk may be purchased in non-refrigerated form, such as the Parmalat brand. Alternately, consider non-fat dry milk; when mixed well and refrigerated overnight, most people can’t tell a difference from fresh skim milk. ■ Eggs are safest kept in the fridge. ■ Unopened cream cheese keeps for many weeks in the refrigerator and is invaluable as a base for your favorite appetizers. ★ LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
45
PH OTOS THIS PAG E COU RTESY OF TH E SAUGATUCK- DOUGLAS H ISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Chronicle, a charming quarterly publication distributed at the Old Schoolhouse, continues to recreate and publish copies of old newspapers from the time of Singapore’s demise. The front-page headline, “Singapore Swallowed by Dunes, Lumber Boomtown Lived Fast and Died Young,” is a popular attention grabber. According to Nietering, 15,000 copies of the newspaper are printed each quarter and quickly snapped up by tourists visiting the area. Several buildings and homes from Singapore were moved to Saugatuck; they are now located throughout town and are still visible today. These buildings are identified on the walking tour route published in the Chronicle and on the History Center’s free mobile app (Saugatuck Douglas History Center). “The sawmill ghost town is part of local legend, and most people learn about it once they come to town by reading the Historical Marker in front of Saugatuck City Hall on downtown’s Butler Street,” Nietering explains. One surviving Singapore home is owned by Travis and Sandra Randolph. Travis’ great-grandfather worked in the sawmill; after the city closed down, his home was
eventually relocated from Singapore to Saugatuck in the mid-1870s by sliding it on wooden logs across the frozen Kalamazoo River. “He came to this area around 1854 as a boy of 9 or 10 from the Netherlands,” Travis says. “They came to this location because of the similarity to their native land, with land that was flat and rich.” Travis’ great-grandfather returned from the Civil War,
(Main) Singapore in 1869 showing the new O.R. Johnson & Co. mill on the right and an older sawmill in the background. The boat on the left is the schooner O.R. Johnson. (Above) The SaugatuckDouglas Historical Chronicle republished an old newspaper article.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
47
their native tongue with services in Dutch, and most remained in the area throughout their lifetimes.
(Top) Rooftops of buried buildings stick out from underneath dunes in 1918. (Above) A map of Singapore from 1837 showing the plot of land and planned developments, many of which did not come to fruition.
48
APRIL 2018
|
and he and his bride participated in a mass wedding with 15 to 18 other couples. He went on to work in the sawmill and became head sawer. “He had his own metal embossing tool and branded the logs he worked on. As a married man, he was given a company house where he and his wife had three children,” Travis says. “I actually have their three birth certificates with Singapore named as their place of birth.” According to Travis, the original north wing of the house — including doors, windows and floors — are still in good shape. “The floors are all 12- to 16-inch white pine boards; [they’re] still beautiful,” he says. Travis’ great-grandfather went on to found and serve as pastor at the Saugatuck Christian Reformed Church, where many of his countrymen joined him. They spoke
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
As with all good legends, the story of Singapore contains equal amounts of truth, mystery, success and destruction. Local historian Kit Lane, in her definitive “Buried Singapore: Michigan’s Imaginary Pompeii,” explains that the town of Singapore was established in 1836 by New York speculator Oshea Wilder north of the Kalamazoo River, where ready access to Lake Michigan was available. He named it Singapore, after the thriving and well-established port, with the hope that its namesake would bring this new one good luck. A famous old tintypes from Singapore’s early years shows the schooner O.R. Johnson arriving in the port for a load of lumber. Not only was Singapore a lumbertown, it was also a ship building community. Business boomed, with several hundred people arriving and settling in to make their fortunes. The historical marker in Saugatuck says that Singapore was settled at the mouth of the river, with sawmills, hotels, stores, a cemetery and a Wildcat bank that even outshone the one in Saugatuck, then nicknamed “the flats.” Part of the enduring legacy of Singapore is the fascination many have for the logging era in Michigan, infusing it with a glamour still palpable today. It was the state’s version of the Wild West. Michigan State University Professor of Geography Randy Schaetzl explains that the logging period, with the creation of lumber and sawmill towns including Singapore, is still of intense interest for many. “This was a very special period of Michigan history,” Schaetzl says. “Imagine what it would
PH OTOS THIS PAG E COU RTESY OF TH E SAUGATUCK- DOUGLAS H ISTORICAL SOCIETY
Fact vs. fiction
have been like back then, with just the bare necessities out there in the woods and in these towns.” It was very hard work to harvest the wood and bring it to Singapore to be processed into board feet, which was then sent out to help build cities hungry for the white pine found in Michigan. “These were tough guys who worked extremely hard, but they were really stripping the area of the woods they needed to continue,” Schaetzl says. “Once the logs were gone, they moved on because there wasn’t another economy to support the town.” In providing much of the lumber to reconstruct 17,500 buildings destroyed by the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the forests surrounding Singapore were stripped bare and the town was quietly abandoned by 1875 — the buildings dismantled and carted away. The buildings left behind were slowly overtaken by the shifting sands, with strong winds coming in off Lake Michigan hastening their demise.
D UNE PHOTO BY NORM HOEKSTRA; BANK NOTES PHOTO COURTESY OF SAU GATUCK- DOUG LAS H ISTORICAL SOCIETY
An archeological dig
The last well known sighting of the city is found in “Buried Singapore.” In the book, Lane writes of a woman who visited the area in 1883 and described several homes, a hotel, and part of one of the original sawmills that were still visible. According to this unnamed source, they were “partially buried in sand and in good shape.” Today, one oddly shaped dune west of town is reputed to be the largest remaining structure hidden underneath the sand, but not surprisingly, everything else has disappeared. How much historical significance does Singapore have? If there is anything left of the city below the sand, will that affect this proposed development project? Answers may be coming soon, as conversations continue on the feasibility of redevelopment. According to Katie Otanez, regulatory project manager in the U.S Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Office, they are waiting to receive the results of an archeological survey that has been ordered. “Our office evaluates permits for proposed work in wetlands and waterways,” she explains. “We are reviewing the project because they are proposing constructing a marina basin connected to the Kalamazoo River.” The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is also a key player in deciding the future plans for this area. In January, the DEQ issued one of two key permits essential for this development to move forward. With several added conditions, the DEQ approved the NorthShore of Saugatuck project, which would
construct a 1,600-foot-long-marina just east of the channel connecting the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan and just north of Saugatuck. This piece of property is privately owned by Jeff and Pam Padnos and would be developed by Brian Bosgraaf of Cottage Homes. The second permit needed would have to be issued by The Army Corps of Engineers, which is currently reviewing 21 public interest factors specific to this development, including: Navigation; impacts to fish and wildlife populations; the overall ecology of the area; conservation; and how remains of Singapore (or even older settlements that may have been on this site) may impact the laws of the National Historic Preservation Act. “We need to determine whether there’s anything there that could make this a historical property, because that may impact our recommendation,” Otanez explains. “We’ve had a lot of concerns and objections raised during town meetings; but in the end, working together, the Michigan DEQ and the Corps will decide if this project is contrary to public interest.” As a direct descendent of Singapore, what does Travis Randolph think should happen where this abandoned town once thrived? “Our whole economy in this state is based on and around water,” he says. “Singapore was founded in that location because of its location on the Kalamazoo River to reach Lake Michigan; when a natural waterway is used that way, I don’t have a problem with it.” When asked about disturbing an area where there might be remains of historical significance, he responds with characteristic good humor: “If you ask me, there is nothing there because the Dutch took it all. Anything there of value is long gone!” ★
(Above) Modern-day Saugatuck dunes. (Left) A historical marker outside the Saugatuck City Hall tells of Singapore’s past. (Below) Copies of Singapore’s bank notes.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
49
maples, gourds sunsets and
Once known as the Town of Maples in reference to its tree-lined streets, Port Elgin, Ontario has long been a popular destination for Great Lakes boaters thanks to its delightful harbor, inviting beaches and one of the largest pumpkin festivals in the world. BY CRAIG RITCHIE 50
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
LEAVE S P HOTO BY P E TE R M C N E I C E ; P UM P K I N FE ST P HOTO COURTE SY OF SAUGE E N S HORE S C HA M BE R OF COM M E R C E
PORT OF CALL
P HOTO COURTE SY OF ON TA RI O TOUR I S M PHOTO BY PETER MCNEICE
Georgian Bay Lake Huron
Southampton
PORT ELGIN
PHOTO COURTESY OF ONTARIO TOURISM
Saugeen Shores
Toronto
Sarnia
Detroit
Lake Erie
Chart Your Course Use “Canadian Hydrographic Service” chart 2291 (Point Clark to Southampton), which includes an inset reference to Port Elgin Harbour.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
51
Main Beach
Ice cream on the boardwalk at Main Beach
Victorian-era home
52
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
hile many towns and villages along the Great Lakes have engaged in massive revitalization programs to restore their once-industrial waterfronts into inviting recreational areas, the little village of Port Elgin, Ontario has never had to do so — it’s beautiful waterfront has always been all about the beach. Located midway up the Canadian side of Lake Huron, Port Elgin is the kind of charming lakeshore town that seems to have it all: A picturesque beach, protected waters and gorgeous sunsets every night of the year. The village was first permanently settled in the mid-14th century by a band of about 500 Iroquoian First Nation peoples. Archaeological examinations of the village site, situated smack in the middle of town in present-day Nodwell Park, suggest the settlers were primarily farmers who grew corn, tobacco, pumpkins and sunflowers. They also engaged in a great deal of fishing. As European colonization spread through the Midwest, a new wave of settlers arrived in Port Elgin, and they too found its rich farmlands and bountiful waters much to their liking. With the exception of aptly-named Harbour Street (which roughly parallels the lakeshore), many of the old town’s streets fan out from its protected harbor. Most of these streets are still lined
KAYAK PHOTO BY PETER MCNEICE; ICE CREAM PH OTO COU RTESY OF COUNTY OF BRUCE; HOUSE PHOTO BY CRAIG RITCH IE; DOWNTOW N PHOTO COURTESY OF COUNTY OF BRUCE
W
BEACH PHOTO COURTESY OF COUNTY OF BRU CE; F ISHING PH OTO COURTESY OF ONTARIO TOURISM; TROLLEY PH OTO BY CRAIG RITCH IE
Main Beach
with spectacular, Victorian-era residences that reflected the town’s considerable prosperity. By 1857, a shipping pier was constructed to link Port Elgin by steamship to other, larger communities, like Southampton and Goderich. The pier brought immediate returns for local farmers, who suddenly had easy access to new markets throughout the Great Lakes. Timber, coal, grain and passengers arrived in return, and the town thrived. Warehouses were constructed and a tannery opened for business, which quickly became the second largest in Ontario. With the rapid growth of Port Elgin’s shipping industry, many of the town’s young men went to work on the lake boats, further cementing Port Elgin’s relationship to the water. Through the second half of the 19th century, Port Elgin began to develop a fledgling tourism industry, as a growing number of passenger boats, primarily from Michigan, began arriving in town on scheduled service, bringing hundreds of visitors each summer. When the railway arrived in 1873 and brought even faster access to market for local produce, the townspeople immediately recognized the writing on the wall and promptly began steering waterfront development away from commercial infrastructure and toward recreational use. The pier — now the focus of a full-blown harbor — was adapted to make it more suitable for pleasure boats, while a string of hotels,
A Side Trip To Southampton While Port Elgin has plenty of charms with which to enchant visiting boaters, so too does the neighboring community of Southampton, just four miles to the north. Located at the mouth of the Saugeen River, Southampton is a delightful little town and well worth a visit. However, docking facilities are extremely limited here; there are no facilities for transient boaters to tie up, even for a few hours. The fastest way to get to Southampton is by cab. The best route to get there is by the Rail Trail, whether you walk or break out the bicycles. If you’re feeling lazy or planning to shop in town, during July and August you can hail a ride on the bright red and green S.S. Trolley, which shuttles passengers between downtown Port Elgin and Southampton for a modest fee.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
53
restaurants and rental cottages began to spring up all along the lakeshore. A waterfront beautification project centered around planting maple trees along these streets — a tradition that survives to this day — led to Port Elgin becoming known as the Town of Maples. That legacy lives on in the hundreds of large maple trees lining Port Elgin’s old town and the decorative leaf patterns inlaid into the sidewalks at downtown intersections. But unlike other tourist beach towns along the lakeshore that shut down during the winter, Port Elgin remains a vital year-round community with a wide and varied economic base. Today, as the home of more than 7,000 permanent residents, Port Elgin is the largest community in southern Ontario’s Bruce County. It continues to serve the surrounding farming community while it welcomes an ever-growing number of tourists each year.
Made for boaters Port Elgin’s harbor lies on the eastern shore of Lake Huron, 53 miles north of Goderich and 56 miles south of Tobermory. It’s fairly easy to spot from the lake, as the port is in close proximity to three major landmarks that are clearly visible from miles offshore. The first landmark you’re likely to spot is the massive Bruce Power nuclear power generating plant with its white reactor dome. Next, you’ll likely see a massive wind farm located just two miles south of the harbor, with its numerous white, 400-foot high wind turbines. That’s when you can look for Port Elgin midway between the turbines and Logie Rock, marked by a light buoy, which sits two miles north of the harbor entrance.
54
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
As you approach the shoreline, you’ll pick up range markers with fixed green lights, which should put you on a course of 109 degrees. It’s a good idea to stay in the marked entrance channel as you proceed through the bay, which is dredged to a depth of about 10 feet; constantly shifting sandbars outside of the channel can pose a serious threat to navigation, particularly for sailboats and deep-draft yachts. Port Elgin Harbour has 270 slips with room for about 30 transient boats. The harbor can accommodate vessels up to 140 feet on the seawall and smaller yachts on secured, fixed docks. If you haven’t called ahead to reserve a slip, pull up to the fuel dock located at the base of the front range marker and either call in on VHF 68 for instructions or walk over to the harbor office located in the large gray building with the blue roof. The harbor office also has a small but well-stocked chandlery that sells navigation charts, cleaning supplies and convenience items. The harbor also has gas, diesel, pumpout facilities, 30-amp power and water at each slip, along with washrooms, showers, wireless internet and a launch ramp.
Life’s a beach Once you’ve pulled into port and secured a slip, where to begin your adventure? The answer to that question depends on when you arrive. Virtually all of Port Elgin’s summer activities center around the beach. The town’s Waterfront Promenade — which begins at the harbor and continues along the beachfront — is a beautiful
MARINA PHOTO BY PETER MCNEICE; WOODLAND TRAIL PHOTO COU RTESY OF SAUG EEN SH ORES CH AMBER OF COMMERCE
North Shore Park overlooking the harbor
TRAIN PHOTO BY PETER MCNEICE; FARMERS MARKET PH OTO COURTESY FACEBOOK PAG E; FRINGE PHOTO COURTESY OF FESTIVAL WORD PRESS SITE
Woodland Trail
manicured walkway that simply demands a stroll. Go after dinner, when you can take in the cool evening air and watch the sun set over the lake. A beachside bandshell offers free Sunday night concerts in July and August, with genres ranging from rock to country to classical. Weekly beach carnivals are held on Saturday nights throughout the summer, and on Wednesdays the beach hosts a large and wonderful flea market. As you explore the Port Elgin waterfront, your ears and your nose will eventually draw you to The Station, located just off the beach, where you’ll find French fries that taste even better than they smell. Here you’ll also find a miniature steam train that takes passengers on a meandering sightseeing route around the harbor and into North Shore Park, a beautiful lakeside green space known for its expansive children’s playground, an inviting picnic area and some delightful walking trails through an ecologically diverse woodlot. Visit Port Elgin in late July or early August and you’ll find the area offers some of the best offshore salmon and trout fishing anywhere. The town serves as home base for the annual Chantry Chinook Classic, which bills itself as the largest salmon derby on Lake Huron. First prize for the largest salmon is a hefty $15,000 (CAD), while a number of additional prizes give everyone a chance to win something. There’s even a prize awarded to the salmon or trout that comes closest to matching this year’s specified weight of exactly 13.35 pounds. If you don’t have the gear or the know-how, charter
Miniature steam train in North Shore Park
Festivals Galore! April 28 Port Elgin Legion Chili Cook Off May 25 – June 3 Huron Fringe Birding Festival
Farmers Market
July 23–27 Summer Music Camp July 28 – August 12 Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby Huron Fringe Birding Festival
June 27 – August 29 (Wednesdays) Port Elgin Tourist Association Beach Flea Market
August 23–25 Saugeen Shores Comedy Festival September 5 Leisure Fair September 7–9 Canadian Big Band Celebration
July 1 Canada Day Celebrations and Fireworks
September 9 Walk-It for Parkinson’s
July 1 – September 2 (Sundays) Port Elgin Band Shell Concerts
September 16 Terry Fox Run
July 20 Rotary Club of Port Elgin’s Jeff Preston Celebrity Golf Tournament
September 29–30 Port Elgin Pumpkinfest
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
55
boats in the harbor will be happy to show you the ropes and perhaps put you on the line with a prize-winning catch.
Saugeen Golf Club
Butterwort carnivorous plant
More Information The best way to plan your trip to Port Elgin is to visit the Port Elgin Tourism website (VISITPORTELGIN.
Here, you’ll find all sorts of useful information, including an interactive map that shows where to find just about anything. For specific boating information, contact the Port Elgin Harbour Office at 519-832-6535 from May-October, and 519-832-2008 ext. 131 from November-April.
CA).
56
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
If you’d rather get off the boat for a bit, take a stroll through Port Elgin’s maple-lined streets and step back in time to a kinder, more refined era when the world moved at a much gentler pace. A helpful guide produced by the Port Elgin Municipal Heritage Committee (and available online at SAUGEENSHORES.CA) includes a map of the historic town with detailed descriptions of different Victorian-era buildings that you’ll pass. As you make your way through town, you’ll inevitably find attractive shops to browse and enticing spots to stop for lunch. Golfers have their choice of four good courses located in the immediate area. East of town, there’s The Club at Westlinks, an 18-hole, par 71 course (519-832- 4653); while the Holiday Country Club, located to the south of the village, is an 18-hole course (519-389-4118). Two more courses sit just north of Port Elgin, including the Saugeen Golf Club, a 27-hole facility with a practice range (519-389-4031) and South Port Golf Course, a nine-hole course with a driving range (519-832-5650). If you’re looking to stretch your legs, consider going for a stroll on the Rail Trail. As commercial shipping gave way to the railway, the rail lines subsequently gave way to highways, and their abandoned tracks were eventually removed, leaving miles of vacant, overgrown pathways through the countryside. A group of volunteers founded the Rail Trail group in 1990 and convinced local government to secure ownership of the rail bed so it could be cleaned up and converted to trails for walking and cycling. Today, the well-manicured trail stretches all the way from Port Elgin to the neighboring town of Southampton. It’s an easy round-trip by bicycle. If you’re feeling energetic, you can walk the four miles up to Southampton then return on a trolley to avoid overdoing it (see sidebar, A Side Trip To Southampton, p. 53). You’ll find the trailhead located on River Street in Port Elgin, a few blocks north of the town center and east of Highway 21.
Flora and fauna The bird watchers in your crew will likely want to take a day trip out to Chantry Island, located a half-mile offshore between Port Elgin and Southampton. The island — a federal bird sanctuary — attracts more than 50,000 birds
LIGH THOUSE PH OTO COU RTESY OF CH ANTRY ISLAND WEBSITE; GOLF PHOTO COURTESY OF SAUGEEN GOLF CLUB WEBSITE; BU TTERWORT PHOTO COURTESY W IKI; INFORMATION PHOTO COURTE SY OF COUNTY OF BRUCE
Out on the town
PH OTOS THIS PAG E COU RTESY OF SAUGEEN SH ORES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
during the spring and early summer breeding season, including a variety of sandpipers, ducks, double-crested cormorants, black-crowned night herons, great blue herons, great egrets, ring-billed gulls and great black-backed gulls. Climb 106 steps to the top of the island’s lighthouse for an incredible view of the island and the lake. The island has no facilities for boaters and the number of daily visitors is strictly controlled, so guided tours operated by the Chantry Island Marine Heritage Society (CHANTRYISLAND.COM) are the best way to go. While you’re checking out the local flora and fauna, head south of town to MacGregor Point Provincial Park, which overlooks Lake Huron just beyond the beach. Described as one of the most ecologically diverse natural places along the entire Canadian shoreline, MacGregor Point is home to a number of unique and rare species, including carnivorous plants. Yes, you read that right. Park interpreters offer guided walks through the cattail marshes and silver maple groves that reveal these highly unusual inhabitants. Although not quite as dramatic as Audrey, the singing, man-eating Venus Flytrap from the 1986 film “Little Shop of Horrors,” the park’s various species of bladderworts and butterworts heartily chow down on a variety of insects. While there’s always plenty of things to do in Port Elgin, the biggest event on the town’s annual calendar is Pumpkinfest (PUMPKINFEST.ORG). Generally held the last weekend in September or the first weekend in October, the Port Elgin Pumpkinfest is among the largest and best-known festivals of its kind in the world, attracting around 60,000 people every year. There’s a farmers market and a classic car show, but the real stars here are the enormous gourds and pumpkins grown by local farmers. The climax of the event is the annual weigh-in competition to see who cultivated the largest vegetable of the year. It’s serious business, with the contenders brought in by forklifts and cranes. To date, no less than four world records for the largest pumpkin have been set at the Port Elgin Pumpkinfest, with the title currently held by a massive 1,877-pound pumpkin that was entered in the 2016 event. Trust me — after a few hours at Pumpkinfest you’ll never look at a Halloween jack-o-lantern the same way again. With its tree-lined streets, laid back atmosphere, gorgeous waterfront and beautiful sunsets, Port Elgin is the kind of place that’s easy to fall in love with. Car-sized gourds and meat-eating plants simply make it a can’t-miss destination on any cruiser’s list. ★
River kayaking
Pumpkinfest
The Town of Saugeen Shores welcomes you to
Port Elgin Harbour
HARBOUR AMENITIES AND SERVICES • Over 250 seasonal slips • Transient slips • Washrooms and showers • Ice • Waste station • Launch ramp • Fuel: gas and diesel • Sandy beach • Picnic areas • Restaurants CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PORT ELGIN HARBOUR Harbour monitors channel: VHF 68 • GPS Coordinates: 44.44434, -81.402981 Phone: 519-832-6535 (May-Oct) • Toll free: 866-832-2008 x 131 (Nov-Apr) Email: harbour@saugeenshores.ca
SAUGEENSHORES.CA/HARBOUR
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
57
MARINA WATCH BY SA R A H KO L L M O R GEN
MORE INFORMATION Ludington Municipal Marina 400 W Filer St. Ludington, MI 49431 231-843-9611 LUDINGTON.MI.US/220 MUNICIPAL-MARINA
Amenities Transient Slip: Y Pump-Out: Y Gas: Y Diesel: Y Lifts: N Launch Ramp: Nearby Engine Repair: N Hull Repair: N Marine Store: Nearby Restaurant: Nearby Showers: Y Laundromat: Y
58
APRIL 2018
|
Ludington Municipal Marina A quiet getaway on Lake Michigan.
F
resh air, hot sun, splashing through cold water and laughing with friends; a day out on the boat can be exhilarating, but can also leave you feeling depleted by sundown. That’s where Ludington Municipal Marina comes in. Known for its friendly and reliable service, Ludington Marina is the perfect place to recuperate after a long day on the water. The marina’s location makes it a good option as a home base for those who want to explore either Lake Michigan or quaint downtown Ludington. Tucked in the mouth of Pere Marquette Lake, Ludington Marina sits within mere blocks of both Lake Michigan and the many restaurants and shops of downtown. With 152 dock slips and 88 transient slips — available for overnight or even hourly stays — the marina is ideal for both seasonal and temporary visits. Marina Manager Jim Christensen says that the marina hosts a good mix of anglers, cruisers and those who prefer to use their boat as a cabin getaway. The marina is also outfitted with all the standard amenities boaters have come to expect at a modern marina, including clean restrooms
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
and showers, laundry, internet and cable TV, a day room to relax in, picnic tables and barbecue grills. “We also have arguably one of the nicest fish cleaning stations of anywhere around,” Christensen adds. What makes Ludington Marina stand out, however, is its full-service fuel dock. “We don’t believe in people having to bump up into the dock and fuel their own boat,” Christensen says. “There’s always someone out there to catch lines and help people out.” Christensen says the marina does its best to provide fair and competitive prices on its gas and diesel offerings. As a result, he sees a lot of “Loopers” (boaters making their way through the Great Lakes, down the Mississippi River and up the East Coast) stop by to fuel-up during their journey. Ludington Marina’s prime location is just blocks away from repair and storage businesses, convenience stores and Ludington’s dining options. Boaters who decide to make this convenient marina a more permanent home will have a chance to kick-off each boating season at the marina’s annual Memorial Day weekend Pig Roast. ★
T
An unspoiled 718-acre inland parcel with rolling hills, hardwoods, amazing views, and an abundance of wildlife. ere are two hunting cabins and producing gas wells (mineral rights included). ere’s even deeded access to Six Mile Lake, part of GAN I H Antrim County’s Chain of Lakes, and IC M it’s only a few miles from KE A Lake Michigan, Lake Charlevoix L LAK EC and Torch Lake. H ARL
EVO
is gorgeous and unique piece of property is located among all the great waterways. And if you aren’t on your boat, you can be hunting, hiking, camping – whatever you love. is wonderful property has paths running through tall trees and open elds for a pick-up football game or planting a garden. g
718 ACRES
IRE
BELLA
MLS 447048
LAKE
KE
TORCH LA
ere are things to do and places to do them you just can’t nd anywhere else – all with a Michigan waterway right next door.
IX
$1,350,000
Contact Pat O’Brien for more information. 231.675.6677 cell | 231.582.1700 office pat@patobrien.com
REAL ESTATE
128 Water Street, Boyne City, Michigan 49712 PatOBrien.com
LAKESHORE LIFE
HISTORIC PHOTO COURTESY OF WINIFRED BOAL
BY KAT E B U SH
MORE INFORMATION
Unspoiled, protected acreage on Lake Charlevoix.
Address 09254 Woods Rd. Charlevoix, MI 49720 Specs Bedrooms: 3 Baths: 1 Square Footage: 1,200 Acreage: 16 Water Frontage: 865 feet Price: $1,499,900 Contact Pat O’Brien Pat O’Brien & Associates 231-582-1700 PATOBRIEN.COM
60
APRIL 2018
Charlevoix, MI
|
I
n 1913, the Boal family purchased 100 acres of land in Charlevoix, Michigan. After years of vacationing at the Chicago Club in downtown Charlevoix, they craved green space and a private shore to dip their toes in the water. They setup a family cottage on the north shores of Lake Charlevoix in a pristine wooded landscape, laying the foundation for what would be called the “Big House.” Five generations later and this natural paradise is still in the Boal family. Apart from a few updates to the cottage, the property is just as untouched as it was a century ago thanks to a conservation easement (CE) through the Little Traverse Conservancy. The now 16 acres and 865 feet of lake frontage are protected from overreaching development. “CEs help protect some property from development – leaving beautiful pieces of property in as natural a state as possible to be enjoyed by future generations,” says homeowner Winifred Boal. A natural drive winds through a thick forest, past a spring and hiking trails and leads to a modest cabin on the waterfront. It’s like having your very own state park in your backyard.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
The large spring, which Boal says is lovingly called “bubbling spring” by the extended family, has a burbling brook that runs into Lake Charlevoix. “Just listening to the quiet brook will relax the most tense person — they should play the sound in dentists’ offices to relax patients,” she says. Step inside the quintessential northern Michigan cabin. The wide pine board walls, cathedral ceiling, stacked fieldstone wood-burning fireplace and wall of windows overlooking Lake Charlevoix will offer inspiration akin to what Ernest Hemingway likely experienced. Boasting three bedrooms and one bathroom, it’s the perfect hideaway for a quiet, relaxing weekend. Potential buyers have the option to maintain this cabin or plant new roots by constructing a modern home that works within the guidelines of the conservation easement. Either way, this picturesque property will serve generations to come. “Mother nature has done a much more beautiful job of landscaping the green space along the shoreline than humans ever could,” Boal says. “It’s my favorite walking path.” ★
Lakeshore Life
Sometimes, even the rescuers need to be rescued. www PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
Because they watch over us. Because they give so much.
Give to the
Coast Guard Foundation RescueTheRescuers.org LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
61
DON’T MISS THE NOVI BOAT SHOW AND THE GRAND RAPIDS ULTIMATE SPORT SHOW, BOTH MARCH 15-18, 2018
BROKERAGE BOATS 16’ 19’ 21’ 21’ 25’ 25’ 25’ 25’ 25’ 26’ 27’ 27’ 28’ 28’ 28’ 28’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 31’ 31’ 31’ 31’
1994 2015 2014 2016 1984 1984 1987 2007 2014 1957 1987 2006 1980 1981 2003 2015 1978 1979 1983 1986 1988 2000 1979 1995 2013 2015
Donzi 16 ...............................................$16,250 Zodiac Medline 580 ..............................$38,900 Zodiac Pro Open 650 NEO & trailer ........$45,900 Zodiac Medline 660 NEO F175 + trailer ..$52,900 Catalina 25 .............................................$9,600 Catalina 25 Pop Top ................................$5,500 Bayliner 2560 .......................................$10,000 ProKat 2560 Dual Console .....................$49,900 Zodiac N-ZO 760 NEO 300hp DEC T-Top .... $109,900 Chris-Craft Sea Skiff ..............................$24,900 O’Day 272 ..............................................$8,900 Hunter 27 .............................................$33,000 O’Day 28 ................................................$9,900 Cape Dory 28........................................$22,000 Four Winns 285 Sundowner ...................$34,900 Cutwater 28 ........................................$179,900 Hunter Cherubini 30 ..............................$10,900 C&C 30 ................................................$15,500 Catalina 30 ...........................................$17,200 S2 Yachts 9.2 ......................................$20,900 O’Day 302 ............................................$19,900 Bayliner 3055 Ciera...............................$41,900 Bombay Clipper 31................................$12,000 Mainship 31 Sedan Bridge SALE PENDING ....$35,900 Ranger Tugs R-31 Command Bridge.....$274,900 Ranger Tugs 31 Sedan ........................$269,000
32’ 32’ 32’ 33’ 33’ 34’ 34’ 36’ 37’ 38’ 38’ 39’ 40’ 40’ 42’ 43’ 44’ 45’ 45’ 47’ 50’ 50’ 50’ 56’
1977 1986 1991 2003 2008 1983 1986 2010 1994 1985 1992 2011 1993 1993 1972 2003 1977 1996 1997 2005 1981 1990 1994 1983
Islander 32 ...........................................$22,000 Wellcraft St. Tropez ................................$15,900 Wellcraft 3200 LXC ...............................$26,900 Formula 330 Sun Sport .........................$73,500 Rinker 330 Express Cruiser SALE PENDING....$89,900 S2 Yachts 10.3 .....................................$24,900 Catalina 34 ...........................................$39,500 Sabre Spirit .........................................$250,000 Carver 370 Voyager...............................$57,500 Chris-Craft 381 Catalina ........................$39,950 Sea Ray 380 Sun Sport .........................$39,900 Hunter 39 ...........................................$165,000 Sea Ray 400 Express Cruiser .................$63,900 Hunter 40.5 ..........................................$81,000 Allied 42 XL ..........................................$65,000 Silverton 43 Motor Yacht ......................$189,900 Trojan 44 Motor Yacht............................$49,900 Sea Ray 450 .......................................$133,000 Ocean Yachts 45 Super Sport...............$175,000 Beneteau 473 .....................................$219,900 Gulfstar 50’ Ketch ...............................$119,000 Viking 50 Motor Yacht..........................$249,000 Hatteras 50’ Convertible ......................$259,900 Hatteras 56 Motor Yacht ......................$299,900
Visit www.reedyachtsales.com to see all of our Boat Show Specials and Boat Show Calendar.
VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM! Our new 15,000 sq. ft. Grand Haven Showroom is opening in mid-late March. Our inventory is there and ready to show. Until we are officially open, please call for an appointment and we will be happy to meet you!
GRAND HAVEN, MI • Brent Reed 616-402-0180 • Bob Lunt 616-843-1225 LASALLE, MI • Paul Reed 419-304-4405 • Chuck Hutchins 734-497-3721 • Matthew Bolt 734-735-1948 RACINE, WI • Mark Derenne 414-651-3100
www.reedyachtsales.com
H Family-owned and
H Large selection of new,
servicing the boaters of the Great Lakes for over 55 years
used & brokerage boats
H Parts & Service,
dockage and storage
H 2016 PRESTIGE YACHTS
H LAKE MICHIGAN’S JEANNEAU YACHTS DEALER
DEALER OF THE YEAR
H EXCLUSIVE GREAT LAKES
FAIRLINE YACHTS DEALER
2018 Prestige 460 Flybridge
2018 Jeanneau 46 Leader
2018 48 Fairline Targa GT
Immediate Delivery,Trades Welcome
Immediate Delivery,Trades Welcome
Production Slots Available
USED & BROKERAGE BOATS
2012 Prestige 60 Flybridge Well Maintained $999,000
2004 Silverton 39 Motor Yacht Trades Welcome $164,900
2015 Cruisers Yachts 390 Express Trades Welcome $399,000
2013 Cruisers Yachts 41 Cantius Ideal Condition $429,000
Find these boats and much more at www.springbrookmarina.com H
FIVE GREAT LAKES LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU
Chicago, IL: 1559 S. Lakeshore Drive, 866-418-6696 Seneca, IL: 623 W. River Road, 866-418-6696 Traverse City, MI: 12935 W. Bayshore Dr. Suite 105, 866-418-6696 Eastlake, OH: 200 Forest Drive, 866-418-6696 Fish Creek, WI: 3957 Main St., Unit 1, 920-868-5044
www.springbrookmarina.com
H
sales@springbrookmarina.com
SPRING REBATES AVAILABLE H
WE BELIEVE IN THE ESCAPE, THE ADVENTURE, THE LIFESTYLE.
2015 Riviera 6000 Sport Yacht Contact Matt Felhofer: 920-495-7125
2004 Marquis 59 Contact Mark Felhofer: 920-495-5567
2013 Riviera 5800 Sport Yacht Contact Chris DePrey: 920-366-4320
2003 Krogen 52 Express Contact Mark Felhofer: 920-495-5567
2007 Grand Banks 47 Europa Contact Mark Felhofer: 920-495-5567
2017 Riviera 445 SUV Contact Mark Felhofer: 920-495-5567
2006 Chris Craft 43 Contact Kevin McNally: 815-403-8718
2013 Regal 42 Coupe Contact Kevin McNally: 815-403-8718
1984 Bertraam 42 Motor Yacht Contact Jon Kruse: 920-883-9058
1993 Carver 390 CPMY Contact Kevin McNally: 815-403-8718
1996 Sea Ray 370 Sundancer Contact Chris DePrey: 920-366-4320
2017 Back Cove 37 Downeast Contact Mark Felhofer: 920-495-5567
1995 Cruisers Yachts 3570 Express Contact Bob Krohn: 920-493-1534
2011 Nordic Tug 34 Contact Chris DePrey: 920-366-4320
1997 Cruisers Yachts 3375 Express Contact Bob Krohn: 920-493-1534
2002 Sea Ray 320 Sundancer Contact Kevin McNally: 815-403-8718
2002 Cruisers Yachts 3075 – Diesels Contact Bob Krohn: 920-493-1534
2008 Regal 3060 Window Express Contact Chris DePrey: 920-366-4320
1993 Pursuit 2855 Contact Jon Kruse: 920-883-9058
2001 Maxum 2700 SCR Contact Kevin McNally: 815-403-8718
DOOR COUNTY YACHTING CENTER, WI 920-743-6526
SALES@BAYMARINE.NET
CHICAGO YACHTING CENTER, IL 847-336-2628
T OF OU E K LIN TS EC W O A CH NE IA B R B OU CO
Huge selection of new, used and brokerage boats VISIT BASASMARINE.COM
SAT TV, JOYSTICK, AUTO PILOT, LOADED, REDUCED TO $229,000
IN PRODUCTION, JUNE DELIVERY
JUST IN ON TRADE!
2015 Regal 35 Sport Coupe
2019 Regal 42’ Fly 2018 Benningtons
1900 Regal ESX 2017 Closeout; two 2018s in stock
25’ Regal 2500 2018 in stock
ON DISPLAY IN SHOWROOM IN STOCK, READY FOR DELIVERY
Cobia 280 DC 2018 in stock
CHAIN AREA LOCATION Basa’s at Lake Marine 2050 S. Eastwood Drive Woodstock, IL 60098
Cobia 277 CC 2018 in stock
MAIN LOCATION Basa’s Marine 512 East Frontage Road Bolingbrook, IL 60440
2017 29’ Regal OBX
MICHIGAN LOCATION Basa’s at Oselka Marina 514 Water Street New Buffalo, MI 49117
630-739-2272 • BASASMARINE.COM
VISIT OU PACKEDR SHOWRO OM! All 2017s o clearance!n
F I V E L O C AT I O N S
C ARV E R YAC HTS NEW MODEL BLUE: C100 M70
2018 C37 COUPE
2018 C43 COUPE
2018 C52 COUPE
BE NE TE AU P O W ER BO ATS
2018 CARVER C34 COUPE
P URS UI T BO ATS
NEW MODEL
2018 GRAN TURISMO 40
2018 GRAN TURISMO 50
RE G A L BO AT S
2017 PURSUIT 280 SPORT
2017 PURSUIT C238
C HR I S - C R AF T BOATS
2018 REGAL 35 SPORT COUPE 2018 REGAL 42 GRAND COUPE
2017 26 CALYPSO
2018 27 LAUNCH
P R E - O W N E D BO ATS
2015 32 REGAL $189,000
2004 35 REGAL $89,000
2018 CARVER C52 COUPE $1,199,000
2015 BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 49, $699,000
STURGEON BAY: South First Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI, (920) 746-1912 • Martin Kelsey: (920) 559-0366, Martin@centerpointesales.com • Terry Godres: (920) 559- 0730, Terry@centerpointesales.com • Tony Peot: (920) 493-4747, Tony@centerpointesales.com • MILWAUKEE: 700 S. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI, (888) 992-2487 • John Niemann: (262) 309-9579, John@centerpointesales.com • Tyler Wilkins: (414) 248-9668, Tyler@centerpointesales.com • KENOSHA: 21-56th Street, Kenosha, WI, (888) 992-2487 • Mike Montilino: (612) 419-3772, Mike@centerpointesales.com • WEST MICHIGAN: 2150 South Shore Dr., Holland, MI • Brandon Ricci: (616) 405-1715, Brandon@centerpointesales.com
WWW.CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM OR CALL (888) 9-YACHTS
NOR
Y BA
PORT H T
PORT TH
Y BA
NOR
BOAT YARD BOAT YARD
Take us along for the ride!
Check out Lakeland Boating’s FREE digital issue archive at lakelandboating.com
Marine Marketplace
The ULTIMATE Tender Lift Solution The freedom to use your watercraft where and when you want with just the touch of a button! FreedomLift® is the ideal solution for transporting your tender or PWC. PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
n Installs independent of your swim platform n The ONLY lift with easily removable lift arms n Features wireless, hydraulic remote control operation n Lifting capacity of 800+ lbs. n Innovative design better than old-style platform lifts
www.freedomlift.com • 866-543-8669
US Patent #6,474,256
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
77
Marine Marketplace
ONEKAMA MARINE, INC. Onekama, MI • (231) 889-5000 www.onekamamarine.com
Riviera 4800 SY
LAKE MICHIGAN YACHT SALES
Bay Harbor, MI • (231) 439-2675 www.lakemichiganyachtsales.com
278 SS Monterey
IN STOCK
262 Wellcraft Fisherman
ARRIVING THIS MONTH
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
IN STOCK
78
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
old School Service,
Dealer/Brokerage aDvertising contact: patti mccleery telephone: 312-276-0610 x.21 pmccleery@lakelandboating.com
No Pressure Financing ChriS huNgeriNk, PreSideNt 888-887-2628
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
for more information on
w w w.c o a s ta l f i n a n c i a l c o r p.c o m
New School Process.
BOAT LOANS
Event Calendar
Date Event April 1 First Day of the 2018 Boating Season May 4 First Friday May 13 Mothers Appreciation Day May 27 Reefpoint Marina Season Opener June 1 First Friday June 9 Meet & Greet June 17 Fathers Appreciation Day June 23 Mexican Fiesta at the Marina June 30 Marina Kids Day at the Racine Zoo July 4 Fourth of July Celebration July 6 First Friday July 14 – 22 Salmon-A-Rama July 14 Meet and Greet July 21 “On the docks Wine-a-Thon” July 27 – 29 Italian Fest August 3 First Friday August 4 6th Annual Boaters Appreciation Day & Venetian Night August 10 – 12 3rd Annual SG Marina Rendezvous (Sheboygan) August 19 Hawaiian Day August 25 Racine Dinghy Poker Run September 3 Labor Day Fest September 7 First Friday September 8 Reefpoint Marina Swap Meet September 22 Party on the Pavement September 29 Farewell to Summer Bash October 5 First Friday October 31 Final Day of the Boating Season #2 CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS CAUSEWAY · RACINE, WI 53403 (262) 633-7171 · REEFPOINT@GORACINE.ORG REEFPOINTMARINA.ORG
888-887-boat
Marine Marketplace
Coastal Financial
79
Marine Marketplace
N
N
S
RTHSH
MARINA
NOW IN STOCK
Trident Funding
YEAR ROUND, FULL SERVICE MARINA
OR E
821 W. Savidge, Spring Lake, MI 49456 Sales: 616-604-0234 / Marina: 616-842-1488 www.northshoremarina.com
ALL IN-STOCK NEW YAMAHA OUTBOARDS CLEARANCE PRICED, CALL FOR DETAILS!
2018 29’ Sailfish 290 Center Console
NOW IN STOCK 2018 26’ Sailfish 275 DC
Boat Loans
Purchase Refinance Pre Approval Low Rates
SELECT PRE-OWNED / BROKERAGE / REPOSSESSIONS / CALL FOR COMPLETE LIST 16’ 21’ 22’ 22’ 23’ 24’ 24’ 24’ 24’ 25’ 25’ 26’ 26’ 28’ 29’ 32’ 32’ 35’ 36’ 36’ 37’ 38’ 40’ 40’ 45’ 46’ 47’
‘12 ‘04 ‘13 ‘07 ‘12 ‘17 ‘06 ‘05 ‘05 ‘15 ‘03 ‘06 ‘97 ‘06 ‘13 ‘99 ‘98 ‘99 ‘17 ‘86 ‘87 ’88 ‘98 ‘89 ‘90 ‘99 ‘98
Glastron GT160, Evinrude E-Tec 115HP, trailer, full cover, stereo/CD, 55th Anniversary Edition .......................$15,900 Rinker Captiva BR, 5.0L Merc, bow & cockpit covers, bimini, trailer.....................................................................$19,900 Cobalt 220 BR, 5.0L Volvo DP, bow & cockpit covers, bimini, low hours, trailer...................................................$47,900 Hydra Sports CC, 250HP e-tec, FBG t-top, GPS/Fish Finder, trailer, clean.............................................................$44,900 Crest Tri-toon, 225HP Mercury, full cover, bimini, ski tow, super clean ................................................................$39,900 Yellowfin 24 Bay CE, 300HP Yamaha, I-Pilot Minn-Kota trolling motor, trailer, NEW ...............................................CALL Bayliner Ciera, 5.7L Merc, full canvas, VHF, stereo, trailer......................................................................................$19,900 Four Winns 248 Vista, 350 MAG Merc BIII, air/heat, camper, VHF, depth, clean .................................................$28,900 Four Winns Sundowner, 5.7L Volvo DP, cuddy, cockpit cover, depth, trailer ........................................................$29,900 Stingray Express, 350 MAG BIII, air/heat, camper, trim tabs, mid-cabin, clean ..................................................$62,900 Rinker 250 Fiesta Vee, 350 Mag BIII, camper canvas, depth, trailer ......................................................................$24,900 Four Winns 260 Horizon, Volvo 5,7L Gxi 300HP, only 71 hours, bow & cockpit covers, enclosed head, trailer............$36,900 Carver Express, 5.7L Merc BIII, low hours, camper canvas, depth & VHF, clean ...............................................$18,900 Alerion Express Sailboat, Volvo diesel, jib & main sails, depth, autopilot, cradle, extremely clean, well maintained.......$79,900 Chaparral Signature, T-4.3L Mercs, arch, camper top, air/heat, l ow hours.....................................................................................$109,000 Monterey express, T-5.7L Mercs, low hours, air/heat, full canvas, shows well ..................................................$39,900 Trojan Express, T-350 Mercs, V-drives, air/heat, GPS, camper canvas, low hours .........................................................................$39,900 Carver 356 Aft, T-7.4L Mercs, air, Genset, bridge enclosure, full electr ................................................................$79,900 Yellowfin CC, Triple 300HP Yamahas, hardtop, outriggers, FusionStereo, trailer, NEW ..........................................CALL Mainship Double Cabin , T-5.7L, air/heat, Genset, windlass,GPS/chart, clean..................................................................................$39,900 Silverton Convertible, T-7.4L, air/heat, GPS, one owner, super clean ...................................................................................................$39,900 Bayliner 3818, T-175HP Hino Diesels, air/heat, Genset, lower station, windlass .................................................$49,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-7.4L Mercs, full electronics, air/heat, Genset, 680 hours, full canvas, clean .......................$114,900 Luhrs Convertible, T-7.4L Crusaders, air, Genset, full electr. and rigged for fishing ............................................$39,900 Californian MY, Cat 3208s, ONLY 295 hours, full electronics, lower station, Genset, loaded ...........................$127,500 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-370HP Cummins, low hours, Genset, air, loaded .............................................................$169,900 Bayliner 4788 Motor Yacht, T-330HP Cummins, low hours ....................................................................................$239,000
Yellowfin Yachts EXCLUSIVE Great Lakes Dealer Brokerage Listings Needed We Sell Boats Fast PROFESSIONAL AND EXPERIENCED BROKERS, WE NEED LISTINGS!
Serving Boat Buyers Nationwide
1-888-386-3888 Vincent Luzietti Robert Dunford, Jr.
Fresh Water Power!
WANT TO STAY UP-TO-DATE ON GREAT LAKES BOATING NEWS
?
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
Subscribe to our e-newsletter and the latest Lakeland Boating magazine news will be sent directly to your mailbox once a week!
54’ ‘03 45’ ‘69 44’ ‘85 43’ ‘06 38’ ‘11 33’ ‘13 33’ ‘77 32’ ‘99 32’ ‘70 31’ ‘02 29’ ‘97 29’ ‘88 27’ ‘85 26’ ‘99 25’ ‘08 25’ ‘86
Cruisers Yachts .................... $399,900 Matthews .............................. $69,000 Gulfstar Motor Yacht............ $119,000 Tiara Sovran ......................... $379,000 Regal 38 Express ................. $205,000 Eco-Trawler .......................... $199,000 Egg Harbor............................. $24,900 Nordic Tug............................ $148,000 Downeaster ........................... $34,500 Formula PC31 ........................ $68,000 Sea Ray Sundancer................ $33,900 Blackfin .................................. $34,500 Sea Ray Sundancer twin I/Os ......$7,900 Checkmate Convincor ........... $24,900 Ranger Tug.............................$89,000 Botnia Targa ........................... $34,000
FEATURED LISTING
2003 54’ Cruisers Yachts, $399,900
VISIT
LAKELANDBOATING.COM TO SIGN UP!
harborviewyachtsales.com 80
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Marine Marketplace
25
ng Celebratirs 26 yea ss e in busin
2018 28' Buddy Davis IN STOCK! Twin 300hp Yamahas “Specia ing in Larger Yliz achts”
ICK TED PATR
Lake & Bay
Y A C H T
S A L E S
PARTIAL LISTING BELOW Visit us on the web for more! 09 98 95 74 04 94 03 16 94 89 85 06
70' Davis Sportfisherman T-1825hp DSL...$2,799,000 50' Viking Convertible T-820hp DSL ...........$410,000 50' Hatteras Convertible T-750hp DSL.......$299,000 45’ Chris Craft Sportfisherman T-Dsl..........$159,900 44' Cruisers 440 Express T-480hp DSL ......$199,900 44' Carver 440 Motor Yacht T-420hp DSL... $109,900 43' Linssen Trawler T-145hp DSL................$279,900 41' Silverton 4100 Coupe T-380hp DSL ......$599,900 41' Silverton Motor Yacht T-502s ..................$79,900 41' Viking Convertible T-485hp DSL .............$99,900 38' Bayliner 3880 Explorer T-250hp DSL .....$54,900 37’ Intrepid 377 Walkaround Trip 275hp ....$189,900
88 86 14 10 18 88 08 98 18 90 06 68
37' Egg Harbor Conv. T-340hp .......................$69,900 37' Egg Harbor Convertible T-350hp ............$64,900 36' Silverton Convertible T-315hp DSL ......$399,000 35' Predator Express T-IPS600 DSL ...........$399,000 34' Buddy Davis ................................................ORDER 34' Silverton Convertible T-350hp .................$32,500 31’ Pursuit 315 OS Offshore T-250hp ..........$195,000 31' Silverton 310 Exp T-300hp ........................$39,900 28' Buddy Davis Center Console T-300hp ...IN STOCK 28’ Sea Ray 280 Sundancer T-230hp ...........$19,900 27' Sea Ray 270 Sundeck 6.2L .......................$39,900 26' Lyman Sleeper W/Trl S-210hp ................$25,000
www.yachtworld.com/lakeandbay 9454 Park Row | Lakeside/Marblehead, Ohio 43440 | lakeandbay@roadrunner.com Phone/Fax: 419-798-8511
WE’RE HIRING SERVICE TEAM MEMBERS!
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales (JBYS) is seeking full-time service technicians and service project managers. Ideal candidates will have the following qualifications: n Marine experience including boat handling n Work well independently n Knowledge in electrical, plumbing, diesel/gas and overall marine systems n Experience with warranty processing n Marine certifications preferred n Ability to use technology across various devices and programs n Project manager will have excellent communication skills and experience managing others WILL CONSIDER DRIVEN, HARD-WORKING AND LOYAL CANDIDATES WHO MAY REQUIRE TRAINING. JBYS HAS SIX GREAT LAKES LOCATIONS, EXACT LOCATION OF EMPLOYMENT CAN BE FLEXIBLE DEPENDING ON LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE.
INTERESTED PARTIES, PLEASE CONTACT: Dave Ottenhoff, VP of Service, Service Manager/Partner (866) 490-5297 x157 or dottenhoff@jbys.com
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
81
Marine Marketplace
BERGMANN MARINE
Charlevoix, MI 49720 • Phone 231/547-3957
www.bergmannmarine.com 22’ 26’ 27’ 28’ 29’ 30’ 33’ 33’
1976 1998 2007 1990 1987 1978 2005 1998
Herreshoff Eagle ................ $9,900 Pro-line 2610 ..................... $32,000 Sea Ray Amberjack ......... $49,000 Chaparral Signature ...........$15,500 Wellcraft 2900 Express ... $10,900 O’Day Sailboat .................. $15,900 True North........................... $175,000 Sea Ray 330 Sundancer...... CALL
33’ 36’ 39’ 41’ 42’ 43’ 46’ 52’
1980 2002 1983 1975 1976 2007 1999 2002
Fiberglass – Woodworking Storage – Heated Storage
Bertram Flybridge ............ $19,900 Sea Ray 360 Sundancer...... CALL Lindmark Trawler 39 ........ $60,000 Chris-Craft 410 M/Y.......... $33,000 Hatteras Convertible ....... $99,000 Azimut 43S ............................ SOLD Beneteau Oceanis 461 ....$169,900 Ocean 52SS .......................... SOLD
Complete Mechanical Electrical Rigging – Haulout
ProPeller AnAlysis And rePAir Eliminate Vibration • Improve Speed • Use Less Fuel Are your propellers causing your boat to vibrate? Lose fuel or speed? Get a free propeller scan from Kahlenberg! • Replace propellers • Repair struts • Marine Machining 920-793-4507 •
• Shafts and shaft repair • Shaft seals and bearings • Air horns and accessories
www.kahlenberg.com
• Two Rivers, WI
BEST KEPT SECRET! Dinghy Davit Open to the General Public! n Great Lakes Marina at Naval Station Great Lakes on beautiful Lake Michigan
n 96-acre full-service historic marina offers the best in amenities at a great value!
n Quiet and serene environment with natural beauty abounding!
Call today for a tour! Book a slip or mooring now, and get FREE storage of your boat trailer/cradle for the 2018 season!
Proudly Made in an! Michig
hurleymarine.com / (906) 553-6249
Fresh Water Power!
CONTACT HARBORMASTER DOUG DERGINER TODAY: 847-688-5417 or DOUG.F.DERGINER@NAVY.MIL
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
ADDED SAfEty At thE Dock & on thE wAtEr
great gifts!
Boarding Pole
Extra assistance boarding the boat. $79.99/$99.99
cAll Jim StEfAno
419-341-0432
82
APRIL 2018
|
Burgee Holder wave that flag. $59.00
nautical cross
Quickly tie-off fenders and tenders. $79.99/$99.99
| www.nauticalcross.com
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Selene
$399,900 2003 54’ Cruisers Yachts 5470 Express Well maintained, one owner, exclusively freshwater
Chitwood Charters
• Sarasota, Florida • Florida’s Beautiful West Coast • White Sand Beaches • Marina Jack Docks • Investment Tax Shelter FOR SALE: Selene 2001 50’ & 53’ Twins; Grand Banks 36’ Single & 42’ Twin MTY
Grand Banks
68’ 1958 Trumpy
For sale or charter
800-769-1399 • www.chitwood-charters.com
Classifieds
Warmth is coming... Place your classified online!
Place your classified advertisement at lakelandboating.com by MARCH 16 to get into our May, June, July and August 2018 issues.
ed! Reduc
2014 ZODIAC PRO OPEN 650 & TRAILER Yamaha F150 with 120 hours, 100% freshwater, stereo, Garmin plotter/sender, loaded with custom features! Asking $45,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0180 RYS
2015 FAIRLINE TARGA 50 GT An absolute beauty loaded with all options! Xenta Joystick, upgraded electronics, teak flooring , 218 hours , original owner, fresh water, 2x Volvo D11-725 hp. Asking $1,095,000. Call 231-499-5820. JUN18 $475,000
ed! Reduc
$449,000
51' 1999 OCEAN ALEXANDER Custom aft-cabin w/cockpit. Ed Monk Jr. design, commissioned by a knowledgeable yachtsman, 2/370hp, luggers, stabilizers, bow & stern thrusters, outstanding condition. Asking $449,000. Contact terry@ centerpointesales.com, 920-559-0730 JUL18
2013 RANGER TUGS R-31 COMMAND BRIDGE. 100% freshwater, 290 hours. Loaded with amenities! Asking $269,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0180 RYS
2015 REGAL 53 SPORT COUPE Immaculate boat, only 60 hours. Every amenity imaginable. Never been lived aboard. Twin Cummins Zeus Pods. Truly luxurious, highest level of comfort and the latest in technology. Freshwater only. Call 231-409-1792 or email tammie.cornell@grandbaymarine.com. MAY18
2014 FOUR WINNS 275 VISTA Only 12 hours on Volvo 320HP DP, AC/heat, genset, cockpit table, dinette table, full galley, head, full warranty, LOADED! MSRP $175K, asking only $99,000. Call 262-654-0207 or sales@glysinc.com GLYS
1993 31 SILVERTON MIDCABIN Updated interior, new Stamoid Bimini with 40mil Strataglass bridge enclosure. AC/heat, windless. Asking $35,400. Contact 330-328-5295 or ursettaa@aim.com. APR17
2003 54' CRUISERS YACHTS 5470 Freshwater, twin Volvo diesels. Asking $399,900. Contact 231933-5414 or info@harborviewyachtsales.com. HV
BOAT FOR SALE 34' 1999 SEA RAY SUNDANCER 330, Must see! Twin Big Blocks 454, Excellent condition. Located in South Haven, Michigan. Asking $43,000. Contact PRESKL@Prodigy.net. APR18
2002 31' FORMULA PC31 Twin 6.2 MPI MerCrusiers. Asking $68,000. Contact 231-9335414 or info@harborviewyachtsales.com. HV
ed! Reduc
1999 32' NORDIC TUG Freshwater, 220 HP Cummins. Asking $148,000. Contact 231-933-5414 or info@harborviewyachtsales.com. HV
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
EMPLOYMENT HELP WANTED: Experienced boat salesperson and technicians needed. The sooner the better! Please call: 630-330-5333. BAS
CAPT. LARRY LOWE WILL DELIVER YOUR BOAT 2015 RANGER TUGS R31 Very versatile vessel that incorporates all the comforts of a larger boat. She is rugged, dependable and simple to operate single handedly. The Lucky Lucy is currently owned by true boaters that have kept her to a superior standard! Diesel engine. Come take a look! Asking $269,000. Call Chuck @ 734-497-3721 RYS
2006 CHRIS-CRAFT 43 ROAMER Rarely offered Hunt designed masterpiece. All amenities. Bow and stern thrusters. Beautiful fit and finish. Freshwater only, extensive equipment list. Asking $299,900. Call 262-654-0207. GLYS
On the water of Great Lakes, East Coast, Gulf or Mississippi. Power or Sail. Free Quotes. 614-314-9439 • afterglowe15570@gmail.com
WWW.CAPTAINLARRYLOWE.COM JUN18
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
|
APRIL 2018
83
CLASSIC CRAFT
RenaBelle
ADD YOUR BOAT
84
I was introduced to boating on my grandfather Ralph Shapton’s boat, Fish and Fun. She was kept on Round Lake at ole’ John Cross’ dock in Charlevoix, Michigan off Belvedere. We had permission to fish there at our leisure when we were visiting. I can still remember them loading the smoker with fresh fish and fruit wood. It was on this boat where — more than likely — I took the wheel for the first time. Fish and Fun was a work/ fishing boat with a lobster smack design, powered by a Gray Marine 100-hp inline 6. Many years later on Lake Leelanau, I would give my grandpa his last boat ride aboard RenaBelle, our 1942 Chris-Craft 26 Deluxe Enclosed Cruiser, named after his wife. I purchased the boat from John Held of Leland, Michigan, who had found it in Marine City, Michigan. Early on, the cruiser was fueled and used only while patrolling the Detroit River as boat 38 W 486 until hostilities ended in 1945. The original U.S. Coast Guard numbers were recently found during hull refinishing and are being presented once again. The RenaBelle is used daily along with other vintage cruisers and wooden craft here on Lake Leelanau. Our three children are learning the value of owning and caring for such a vessel, and we enjoy it immensely. It’s come full circle in the beautiful state of Michigan. Email kbush@lakelandboating.com if you have a —Robert Shapton, East Grand Rapids, MI & Lake Classic Craft with a good story to share! Leelanau, MI
APRIL 2018
|
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
PHOTO COURTESY OF ROBERT SH ARPTON
Coming full circle.
STINGRAY BOATS ARE AVAILABLE AT THESE GREAT LAKES AREA DEALERS USA DEALERS Anderson Boat Sales 6477 Highland Road Waterford MI 248-666-9922 andersonsboatsales.com
Boat Guys 104 W Lake Road Maryville NY 716-753-3913 chautauquamarina.com
CenterPointe Boat Svcs 400 Sussex Street Pewaukee WI 262-333-0700 centerpointeservice.com
Frank's Marine 17530 W Akron Canfield Rd Berlin Center OH 330-547-3688 franksmarine.com
Glen Harbor Marina 517 E 4th Street Watkins Glen NY 607-535-2751 glenharbormarina.com
Grand Valley Marine 3711 28th Street SW Grandville MI 616-538-2460 grandvalleymarine.com
R C Congel Boats 8575 Brewerton Road Cicero NY 315-699-2144 rccongel.com
CANADA DEALERS Haliburton Outdoor 4355 Kennisis Lake Rd RR 1 Haliburton, Ontario 705-754-9262 haliburtonoutdoorequipment.ca
Leisure Marine 5781 Highway 7 Woodbridge, Ontario 905-851-3903 leisuremarine.com
Mobile Marine Services 261 Hunter Road Grimsby, Ontario 905-730-4722 mobilemarineservices.net
North Country Marine 4201 Perth Road Kingston Inverary, Ontario 613-353-1577 northcountrymarine.com
Pirate Cove Marina 4304 Rideau River Rd Kemptville, Ontario 613-258-2325 piratecovemarina.com
Rosseau Road Powersports 25 Blackstone & Crane Lk Rd Seguin, Ontario 705-378-5217 rosseauroad.ca
TO LOCATE A STINGRAY DEALER IN ANOTHER AREA, VISIT STINGRAYBOATS.COM/DEALERS
ADVE RTISE I N
CALL 800-331-0132 FOR MORE INFORMATION