August 2019

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Agent Provocateur… has been left ashore.


MarlowExplorer ® 49E | 53E | 58E | 62E | 66E | 70E | 75E | 80E | 88E

T

he Marlow Explorer series of yachts have been defining and redefining the yachting experience since 2001. The launch of the first Marlow Explorer 65c, a ground breaking yacht in her own right, demonstrated to a worldwide

audience the vision of David E. Marlow. He proposed that an advanced design with traditional lines, a technological build, and the owner’s desires could find a harmonious balance in a highly customized production yacht. Each yacht, built to exacting standards for each of their owners, utilizes proprietary technology and techniques for a light weight hull of impeccable integrity. The interior craftsmanship and attention to detail would make any femme fatale jealous. Investigate the finest Agent Provocateur in her class… The Marlow Explorer at www.marlowyachts.com.

North American Inquiries

International Inquiries

www.marlowyachts.com • sales @ marlowyachts.com

www.marlowyachts.com • sales @ marlowyachts.com

Marlow Marine Sales, Inc. 800.362.2657

MarlowExplorer pictured with optional Command Bridge.


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Features

ON T H E COV E R

Boat Test: Scout 255 Dorado Crossing the line. by Chuck Warren ........................................................

Boat Test: Four Winns HD 240 Surf A true crossover for on-the-water fun. by Alan Wendt ......................

When a West Michigan couple was in search of their first boat, they were drawn to the Scout brand and the 255 Dorado. At just over 25 feet, the dual console fits the entire family with ease, while also offering high-end features and on-water-fun amenities. As the new boat owners say, “When we’re on the water, we feel like we’re on vacation.”

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Queen of the Lake As Ditchburn Boat’s final work of boatbuilding mastery, Grace Anne II continues to ply the waters of Lake of the Woods. Story & photos by Bruce Kemp .................................................................

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Morgan Shoal An ancient reef in Chicago’s backyard. by Sarah Kollmorgen .............

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Port of Call: Silver Bay, MN Wilderness Adventure: On the desolate northern shore of Lake Superior, Silver Bay, Minnesota, welcomes the outdoor explorer with epic activities and amenities in this naturalist’s dreamscape. by Felicia Schneiderhan .............................................................................

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@ 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!

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Departments

4 Dock Box ............................................................................................. 6 Calendar .............................................................................................. 8 Scuttle......................................................................................................... 12 Great Gear........................................................................................ 22 Waypoint: Onekama, MI..............................................................24 Beneath the Surface ....................................................................26 Don’t Hesitate to Renovate ....................................................... 28 Cruising With Kids SEASONAL COLUMN! .........................29 Electronics .......................................................................................30 Safety First .......................................................................................31 From the Helm ..................................................................................

Boat Spotlights: Blackfin, Cutwater, Chris-Craft, Sea-Doo .............................................................

32 Lakeshore Life: Boyne City, MI ................................................ 60 Marine Marketplace ......................................................................62 Classifieds ........................................................................................79 Classic Craft ................................................................................... 80

PHOTO BY RICH HOEG

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Fish & Cruise While the 236CC was designed for use as a coastal fishing boat, it's really a multi-purpose boat that can be used for lots of activities — pulling kids on a tube, cruising to dinner, or just a leisurely ride along the waterways.

With seating for up to twelve passengers, rod holders and storage throughout, and a changing compartment that can be upgraded with an optional porta potti, the 236CC is ready for a full day of fun on the water with family and friends! 236CC Deck Boat 23’ 8” | 101” beam | 3648 lbs (w/ popular engine) | 68 gal fuel capacity | 12 ppl, 3250 lbs VISIT STINGRAYBOATS.COM /236CC FOR MORE INFORMATION


FROM THE HELM

CONTRIBUTORS

BY KAT E B U S H

What’s your favorite summertime activity?

A Change of Pace A

fter getting tied up in summer craziness, August is the perfect month to unwind from the July Fourth holiday, take a pause before Labor Day weekend and a new school year, and simply enjoy the present — ideally outside and on a boat. Change up the pace. As the legendary Ditchburn Boat’s final work of art, Grace Anne II continues to ply the waters of Lake of the Woods (p. 44). Those who charter this grand yacht will take a step back in time and a step back from the fast pace of life. Embrace the unexpected. Did you know that just beyond the skyscrapers and Magnificent Mile, Chicago has its very own “coral reef ” of sorts called the Morgan Shoal (p. 48)? This hotbed for biodiversity is a popular diving spot, and you can even see a piece of a shipwreck when the water level is low. Pump the brakes. Visit Silver Bay, Minnesota, a port of call that offers respite from to-do lists and chores (p. 52). This Lake Superior town is a Mecca for outdoor lovers, boasting some of the most beautiful state parks, hiking trails, excellent fishing and more. Seek contentment. In our cover boat test on the Scout 255 Dorado, we interview a Michigan couple who purchased the dual console and dig into why they decided on this model. Their reasoning: “We wanted a boat that would be all we’d ever need.” Flip to page 36 to find out why this boat checked all their boxes. Slow down this month and enjoy the change of pace!

Do you have a story idea you’d like to suggest? Email me at kbush@lakelandboating.com to share your ideas.

Boyne City, MI p. 60

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HHH

Felicia Schneiderhan With our three kids on Lake Superior, we love going on our 38' trawler, Mazurka, anchoring off an island, exploring the beaches, swimming, hiking, then falling asleep on a still lake.

HHH

AREAS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE

Silver Bay, MN p. 52

Onekama, MI p. 24

Sarah Kollmorgen My favorite summertime activity is playing beach volleyball along the Chicago lakefront. It’s a great way to break up the week and get some sun!

Bruce Kemp I love diving Great Lakes shipwrecks. They bring our history to life in more concrete ways than simply reading about the history or watching videos. Wrecks are actual history and they let me merge completely with the things I truly love.


Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Annual premium for a basic liability policy not available all states. Prices vary based on how you buy.

1.800.PROGRESSIVE | PROGRESSIVE.COM


DOCK BOX

AUGUST 2019 | VOLUME LXXIII, NO. 8

NAME GAME Dirt Cheap

PUBLISHER Walter “Bing” O’Meara EDITORIAL STAFF Editorial Director: Kate Bush Assistant Editor: Amanda McDonald CREATIVE STAFF Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs CONTRIBUTORS Helen Aitken, Glenn Hayes, Bruce Kemp, Sarah Kollmorgen, Capt. Frank Lanier, Kim Racette, Diane Seltzer, Capt. Tom Serio, Felicia Schneiderhan, Heather Steinberger, Chuck Warren, Alan Wendt, James and Debbie White

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! E-mail us at staff@ lakelandboating.com or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201. Opinions expressed in “Dock Box” are not necessarily those of Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

This is my brother’s boat. He paid very little for it, and at that time it was filthy as dirt. My wife and I decided to give it the name Dirt Cheap. He liked it and even calls it Dirt for short! My brother, Gary Baran, is from Columbus, Michigan. —Ken and Leah Baranowski Odduck

COM

STAFF@LAKELANDBOATING.COM LAKELANDBOATING.COM

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 x. 24 / Fax: 312-276-0619 CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM

O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC. President: Walter B. O’Meara Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh

My wife’s nickname is Duck so our boats always have a play on that. This is a 1987 Crestliner Sabre 24 DC at the end of a five-year total rebuild. I could have bought the Queen Mary five years ago, had a boat to use and saved money. That’s why this one is named Odduck. —Gary Kramer Calling All Canine (and Feline) Crew! We want to learn about your furry friends onboard! Send a short write-up with your pet’s name and your home city, as well as a high-resolution photo (at least 1 MB) to: kbush@lakelandboating.com. Please put “Canine/ Feline Crew” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!

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, visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/STORE .

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EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 / Fax: 312-276-0619

SUBSCRIPTIONS P.O. Box 15396 North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396 800-827-0289

Correction A LAKELANDBOATING. story from June 28, 2018, titled “RCR Yachts Opens Storefront in Sandusky” was published to our website without attributing the source. The Sandusky Register, along with writer Andy Ouriel and photographer Erin Caldwell, deserve credit for the story. We sincerely apologize for the error.

BUSINESS STAFF National Sales: Mark Conway Regional Sales: Patti McCleery Marketing Director: Linda O’Meara Accounting: Marguerite Wristen

AUGUST 2019 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM

Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2019, by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. • Business/Accounting and Editorial Offices: 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201, 312-276-0610. • Call 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. 894095074-RT 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


Live the Sea-Doo Life for less than you’d think. Starting at $5,399

Discover yours at Sea-Doo.com ©2019 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. Carefully read the operator’s guide and safety instructions. Observe applicable laws and regulations. Always wear appropriate protective clothing, including a personal flotation device and wetsuit bottoms. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. See your authorized BRP dealer for details.


CALENDAR OF EVENTS BY KAT E B U S H

AUG 3

BAROQUEONBEAVER.ORG

WWCACBS.COM

Baroque on Beaver Island Beaver Island, MI

JULY 29 – AUG 9

1

Washington Island Music Festival Washington Island, WI WASHINGTONISLANDMUSIC FESTIVAL.COM

JULY 30 – AUG 3 Spirit Valley Days Duluth, MN

SPIRITVALLEYDAYS.COM

JULY 31 – AUG 3

Elk Rapids Harbor Days Elk Rapids, MI

ELKRAPIDSHARBORDAYS.ORG

2

JULY 31 – AUG 4

Tall Ships Midland Midland, ON

Tawas Uncork’d Wine, Food & Ale Fest East Tawas, MI

AUG 9 – 18

JACKSONPORT.NET

TAWAS.COM

AUG 3 – 4

DeTour River Fest Sail Drummond Island, MI FAREHARBOR.COM

LAKESIDEOHIO.COM

AUG 1 – 4

Thunder on the Niagara North Tonawanda, NY

KENOSHATALLSHIPS.COM

THUNDERONTHENIAGARA.COM

AUG 3 – 5

Village Days Celebration Houghton Lake, MI

HOUGHTONLAKEHISTORY.COM/ VILLAGE-DAYS

Rendezvous in Mackinaw Mackinaw City, MI

AUG 3 – 10

AUG 1 – 31

LAKEERIEISLANDSWILDLIFE.COM

MACKINAWCITY.COM

Light Keeper Weekends (Fri – Sun) DeTour Village, MI DRLPS.COM

Island Green Week Put-in-Bay, OH

Shoreline West Bicycle Tour Montague, MI LMB.ORG

AUG 2 – 3

Vintage Ohio Wine Festival Kirtland, OH

Sturgeon Bay Maritime Week Sturgeon Bay, WI

AUG 2 – 4

AUG 4

LYMANBOA.COM

COASTALCRAWL.ORG

VISITVINTAGEOHIO.COM

4

Cherry Fest Jacksonport, WI

CHARLEVOIXDRAGONFESTIVAL.ORG

DOORCOUNTYFAIR.COM

Kenosha Tall Ships Kenosha, WI

All Classics Festival Huron, OH Annual Antique Boat Show 1 & Auction Clayton, NY ABM.ORG

Chalk the Block St. Joseph, MI

2

STJOETODAY.COM

Michigan Lighthouse Festival Paradise, MI

MICHIGANLIGHTHOUSEFESTIVAL.COM

AUG 2 – 5

Canal Days Marine Heritage Fest Port Colborne, ON PORTCOLBORNE.COM/PAGE/ CANAL_DAYS

Toronto Food Truck Festival Toronto, ON

CANADIANFOODTRUCKFESTIVALS. COM/TORONTO

ORILLIA.COM

Sarnia-Lambton Tall Ships Celebration Sarnia, ON

Lakeside Sailing Regatta Lakeside, OH

I-LYA.ORG

Orillia Waterfront Festival Orillia, ON

Charlevoix Dragon Boat Festival Charlevoix, MI

Door County Fair Sturgeon Bay, WI

I-LYA Sail Regatta Put-in-Bay, OH

3

Boats on the Boardwalk Traverse City, MI

DCMM.ORG

Coastal Crawl Harbor Springs, MI

AUG 7 – 11

ONTBLUECOAST.COM

MIDLAND.CA

Bill Johnston’s Pirate Days Alexandria Bay, NY ALEXBAY.ORG

AUG 10

Charlevoix Waterfront Art Fair Charlevoix, MI

CHARLEVOIXWATERFRONTARTFAIR.ORG

Door County Festival of Fine Arts Sister Bay, WI COMETOSISTERBAY.COM

Heritage Days Garden, MI

MICHIGAN.GOV/DNR

Les Cheneaux Islands Antique Wooden Boat Show Hessel, MI LCIBOATSHOW.COM

Maritime on Madison Festival Sturgeon Bay, WI STURGEONBAY.NET

AUG 10 – 11

Door County Classic & Wooden 3 Boat Festival Sturgeon Bay, WI DCMM.ORG

OPBRA Power Boat Races and All Fiberglass Boat Display Gravenhurst, ON OPBRA.CA

Sidelaunch Days Harbourfront Festival Collingwood, ON SIDELAUNCHDAYS.CA

Powerboat Week Put-in-Bay, OH I-LYA.ORG

Top O’ Michigan Boat Race Indian River, MI

AUG 8 – 11

AUG 11 – 13

BLUEBERRYFESTIVAL.COM

FESTOFSAILDULUTH.COM

National Blueberry Festival South Haven, MI

TOMORC.ORG

Festival of Sail 4 Duluth, MN

Pentwater Homecoming Celebration Pentwater, MI

AUG 14

AUG 9 – 10

CI.SANDUSKY.OH.US

VISITPENTWATER.COM

Brewha! Craft Beer Festival Thunder Bay, ON BREWHAFESTIVAL.COM

AUG 9 – 11

Music & Arts Festival Grand Marais, MI

GRANDMARAISMICHIGAN.COM

Bayfront Bazaar and Brew Sandusky, OH

AUG 14 – 18

Venetian Festival Lake Geneva, WI

VENETIANFEST.COM

AUG 15 – 17

Festival on the Bay Petoskey, MI

PETOSKEYFESTIVAL.COM

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PH OTOS COURTESY OF : 1. ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM FACEBOOK; 2. ST. J OSEPH TODAY FACEBOOK; 3. DCMM.ORG; 4. FESTIVAL OF SAIL DULUTH FACEBOOK;

JULY 26 – AUG 3



CALENDAR OF EVENTS

AUG 16 – 17

Rideau Ferry Yacht Club Regatta Rideau Ferry, ON

1000 Islands Poker Run Kingston, ON

RIDEAUFERRYREGATTA.CA

POKERRUNSAMERICA.COM

AUG 18 – 22

Lake Superior South Shore Bike Tour Marquette, MI

Big Splash Raffle Sandusky, OH

ADVENTURECYCLING.ORG

BIGSPLASHRAFFLE.COM

6

Port Sanilac Antique & Classic Boat Show Port Sanilac, MI MICHABCS.COM

TugFest Georgian Bay Midland, ON

AUG 16 – 18

Hastings Waterfront Festival Hastings, ON MLAOC.CA

Tall Ships Kingsville Kingsville, ON

YpsiFest 10 Ypsilanti, MI

Shoreline Jazz Festival Muskegon, MI

AUG 23 – SEPT 1

ALEXBAY.ORG

Tall Ships Erie Erie, PA

KINGSVILLE.CA

TALLSHIPSERIE.ORG

AUG 23 – 24

Art on the Riverfront Grand Haven, MI

Death’s Door Barbecue Washington Island, WI

VISITGRANDHAVEN.COM

DEATHSDOORBBQ.COM

Boat Walk South Haven, MI

MICHIGANMARITIMEMUSEUM.ORG

HarborFest 9 Marquette, MI

MARQUETTEWESTROTARY.ORG

Great Lakes Surf Festival Muskegon, MI

GREATLAKESSURFFESTIVAL.COM

HarborPark Jazz, Rhythm & Blues Festival Kenosha, WI MAHONEFUND.ORG

Marine Heritage Festival 5 Kincardine, ON VISITKINCARDINE.CA

Lake George Rendezvous Lake George Village, NY ACBS-ADC.ORG

Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival Superior, WI LAKESUPERIORDRAGONS.COM

AUG 23 – 25

Fudge Festival Mackinac Island, MI

MACKINACISLAND.ORG

Pewaukee Antique & Classic Boat Show Pewaukee, WI

Porcupine Mountains Music Festival Ontonagon, MI

Port Clinton Lighthouse Festival Port Clinton, OH

Rendezvous at the Straits Powwow St. Ignace, MI

Sandusky Shores Music Fest Sandusky, OH

Thunder Bay Ribfest Thunder Bay, ON

GLACBS.ORG

9

LIGHTHOUSEFRIENDS.COM

SANDUSKYSHORESMUSICFEST.COM

Soo Ultimate Paddle Day Sault Ste. Marie, MI

5

Rockin’ the Bay Alexandria Bay, NY

SHORELINEJAZZFESTIVAL.COM

AUG 17

8

Progressive Cedar Point Boat & Demo Show Sandusky, OH

CEDARPOINTBOATSHOW.COM

TUGFESTGEORGIANBAY.COM

7

AUG 22 – 25

PORKIESFESTIVAL.ORG

CRAZYCROW.COM

RIBFESTTBAY.COM

6

SOOULTIMATEPADDLEDAY.ORG

AUG 17 – 18

Art at Bayfront Park 7 Duluth, MN

ARTINBAYFRONTPARK.COM

Chicago Air & Water Show 8 Chicago, IL

CHICAGOAIRANDWATERSHOW.US

10

YPSIFEST.COM

Salmon Spectacular Fishing Derby Owen Sound, ON SYDENHAMSPORTSMEN.COM

AUG 24

Blues on the Bay Ellison Bay, WI

DOORCOUNTY.COM

Chicago Leukemia Cup Regatta Chicago, IL LEUKEMIACUP.ORG

Gull Lake Classic Lake Shore, MN

ACBS-BSLOL.COM

Pentwater Boat Show Pentwater, MI

PENTWATERYACHTCLUB.COM

Toledo Antique & Classic Boat Show Toledo, OH TOLEDOBOATSHOW.COM

AUG 24 – 26

Detroit Hydrofest Detroit, MI

DETROITBOATRACES.COM

AUG 27 – SEPT 14

Apostle Islands Lighthouse Celebration Bayfield, WI

LIGHTHOUSECELEBRATION.COM

AUG 28 – 29

Uncork’d WineFest Ashtabula, OH

UNCORKDWINEFEST.COM

AUG 30 – SEP 1

Perch, Peach, Pierogi & Polka Festival Port Clinton, OH KOFC1750.ORG

AUG 31 – SEP 1

Arts and Crafts Dockside St. Ignace, MI STIGNACE.COM

Port of Orillia Pirate Party Orillia, ON ORILLIA.COM

ADD YOUR EVENT

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Visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/GREAT-LAKES-EVENTS to add your event to our Calendar of Events page!

AUGUST 2019

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Tall Ships Brockville Brockville, ON

TALLSHIPSBROCKVILLE.COM

PHOTOS COU RTESY OF: 5 . VISIT KINCARDINE FACEBOOK; 6. SOO ULTIMATE PADDLE - SUP DAY FACEBOOK; 7. ART IN BAYFRONT PARK FACEBOOK; 8. NIX ERKG/FL I C K R; 9. M A RQUE TTE WE ST ROTA RY FAC E B OOK ; 10. YPSILANTI HERITAGE, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT F ESTIVAL FACEB OOK

BY KAT E B U S H



SCUTTLE BUZZ

Shepler’s Ferry and Moran Iron Works Partner on Jet-Driven Boat Mackinac Island visitors will be able to ride aboard an all-new, $4 million jet-driven ferry in 2020. Moran Iron Works will be manufacturing the vessel, making this the second time Shepler’s and Moran have joined forces. Moran built the Miss Margy ferry back in 2015, named after Bill Shepler’s mom, Margaret. Instead of propellers, the new boat will have jet drives, supplied by HamiltonJet of New Zealand. This will be the first fast-ferry application of the jets in the Great Lakes and the first use of the new Advanced Vessel Control System in the U.S. The new 210-passenger boat will be wheelchair accessible and have a large aft deck for luggage, bikes and strollers. For more information, visit SHEPLERSFERRY.COM and MORANIRON.COM.

SCUTTLE GREAT LAKES NEWS

Minnesota-based boat gear company MISSION LLC has named Corey Uchtman as CEO. Uchtman was previously the patent counsel for the company and was a professional wakeboarder before that.

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MUST-HAVE

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BUZZ

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EVENTS

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BUSINESS

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PEOPLE & PLACES

PEOPLE & PLACES

Marlow Marine Cruising Club Hosts Spring Rendezvous The 23rd Annual Marlow Marine Cruising Club Spring Rendezvous took place on May 2-5 at Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht Club in Marathon, Florida. The Rendezvous is designed to encourage camaraderie among Marlow owners and yachting enthusiasts who maintain membership in the Marlow Marine Cruising Club. A record number of guests attended the 2019 event. The Rendezvous offered guests plenty of fun activities, including a Luau on the Yacht Club lawn

where guests enjoyed live music, dancing and tasty treats; sunrise yoga on Friday morning; and a Fire and Ice-themed party at night. Saturday started off with a 5K Fun Run, followed by educational yachting seminars and a Q&A with David Marlow and his crew. Saturday was also an opportunity to christen boats, tour open boats and do a little “pretend gambling” as members wagered on their favorite horse in the Kentucky Derby. For more information, visit MARLOWMARINE.COM.

EVENTS

Cedar Point Boat Show Gets a Makeover

ADD YOUR NEWS

12

Visitors to the 2019 Progressive Insurance Cedar Point Boat Show on August 22-25 will notice a major overhaul to the show, including more features and visitor experiences. “This year we wiped the slate clean,” says Show Manager Michelle Burke, “[We] started out with one premise: That the old show is over and we intend to stage a well-rounded boating event that includes new ideas and exciting features to give everyone many Email kbush@lakelandboating.com to add your company’s reasons to attend.” Great Lakes news to Scuttle! Boating history will AUGUST 2019

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come alive in a special “Lymans Coming Home” event to celebrate the nine decades this venerable Lake Erie-designed boat was built in Sandusky. Another event includes the traditional “Toledo Antique and Classic Boat Show.” Dealers will display their new and pre-owned boats in the “Parking Lot Sale.” Dine at one of the food trucks and enjoy live music. There will also be a schedule of on-stage seminars covering topics like important winterizing tips, the latest smartphone boating apps and more. Of course, all this will be surrounded by some 400 new power and sailboats ranging from inflatables to motoryachts, most on display dockside. For more details, visit CEDARPOINTBOATSHOW.COM.


SCUTTLE

BUZZ

SeaHunter Standardizes Seakeeper

BUZZ

Hudson River Maritime Museum Debuts New Solar-Powered Boat

Hudson River Maritime Museum’s new tour boat, recently named Solaris, is fully powered by solar panels that work even on cloudy days. The 44-foot tour vessel is the first of its kind that’s completely solar-powered and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard for passenger service. Built by the Hudson River Maritime Museum’s restoration crew under the direction of Jim Kricker, Solaris can travel up to 50 miles at night without the use of its solar panels. The new tour boat will allow the museum to expand its popular Rondout Lighthouse Tours, as well as new history tours, trips to the Esopus Lighthouse, birdwatching trips, sunset cruises and field trips to its onthe-water programming. Solaris can accommodate up to 25 passengers, will be available for private charters and can be added on to any rental of the museum’s facilities. For more information, visit HRMM.ORG.

Fish in comfort aboard SeaHunter boats. New SeaHunter 31, 33, 35, 39 and 45 models will come with standard Seakeeper and Seakeeper 2. SeaHunter is now the largest boatbuilder to standardize the gyro stabilizers. “Seakeeper is becoming a standard in the industry, and we’re committed to making boat roll a thing of the past,” says Andrew Semprevivo, president and CEO of Seakeeper. “We’re very happy to partner with SeaHunter, who has proven time and again that not only do they make a rugged offshore boat but that, like us, they’re focused on the customer first and foremost.” While the standardization is effective immediately for new purchases, anyone who wants to add the option can contact SeaHunter. To learn more, visit SEAKEEPER.COM and SEAHUNTERBOATS.COM.

“When you spend 30 years perfecting the industry’s leading Marine Gasoline and Diesel fuels, you want to make sure that exceptional quality is maintained right up until the point they are put into use. That’s why we choose only the best marinas and fuel docks to carry ValvTect7 product, and inspect and certify their fuel tanks and pumps each year to assure they meet our strict quality standards.”

Marine Formulated, Quality Inspected & Fuel Dock Certified.

MARINE FUEL

Learn more at: ValvTect.com/vmfdockcert.pdf © 2019 ValvTect Petroleum Products, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089.

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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SCUTTLE

BOATS

Canyon 326 is Newest Addition to Grady-White Fleet

If you’re in the market for a center console, take a look at Grady-White’s newest model, the Canyon 326. The 32-foot center console features an expanded beam, built-in swim platforms, dual Yamaha 300s or 350s, numerous fish boxes and more amenities that make for an action-packed day on the water. SureShade sunshades and Sunbrella canvases make relaxing away from the sun’s rays easy as well. “This boat fills a niche in our model line. It’s perfect for the owner that wants more room than the 306 but isn’t ready to jump to the 336,” says Joey Weller, Grady-White vice president of sales. “Its numerous built-in features, the latest in innovative design, style and comfort combined with a variety of options makes the 326 a great addition to our already extensive line up.” For more information, visit GRADYWHITE .COM.

BUZZ

BUSINESS

America’s Boating Club Now Offers Spanish-Language Course America’s Boating Club’s popular online class, America’s Boating Course, is now offered in Spanish. Produced under a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, and administered by the U.S. Coast Guard, the course provides Spanish-speaking boaters with education on a variety of boating and boat handling topics. Course topics include basic boating terminology, weather situations and rules of responsibility. Through the online format, students will learn using interactive videos and graphics for a fun learning experience. The printed, full-color guidebook serves as an important supplement to the online course. Those interested in taking the course don’t need to be members. To learn more and to access the course, visit AMERICASBOATINGCLUB.ORG/EDUCATION-MATTERS.

Sea Ray Names New President

Brunswick Boat Group has announced that Steve Langlais will take on the role of Sea Ray Boats president, succeeding Brad Anderson. Langlais was previously the president of Brunswick Ft. Wayne operations, and before that president of Princecraft Boats. He will continue to report to Huw Bower, Brunswick Boat Group President. “Celebrating its 60th anniversary and with committed investment in technology, design, capacity and talent, Sea Ray is bringing to life a bold vision for the future of this iconic brand,” Bower says. “I am thrilled that Steve’s strategic insight, commitment to quality, and collaborative leadership style will perfectly complement Sea Ray’s talented leadership team and experienced employee base.” For more information, visit BRUNSWICK.COM.

BUZZ

HydroHoist Will Now Make Lifts for the U.S. Navy

U.S. Navy ports in Virginia, New Jersey, Connecticut and New Hampshire now have HydroHoist’s HarborHoist lifts protecting Navy security and patrol boats. The boat lift company was selected for its ISO-9001 certification, affordability, low maintenance and versatility. “HydroHoist’s quality manufacturing process, strong aluminum saltwater frame, polyethylene tanks and push button control are some of the HarborHoist attributes that set us apart,” says JB Robison Jr., HydroHoist inside sales manager. The HarborHoist boat lift has a level-lifting frame made of aircraft-grade aluminum and is compatible with fixed or floating docks and nearly all boat types. For more information, visit BOATLIFT.COM.

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SCUTTLE

MUST-HAVE BUSINESS

Pursuit Appoints Amy Gobel as Director of Marketing Pursuit Boats has promoted Amy Gobel to the role of director of marketing. In her previous role as marketing manager, Gobel played an essential role in developing marketing strategies for the Pursuit brand. In her new role, Gobel will be responsible for all aspects of Pursuit’s branding, lead generation, data-based marketing efforts and many other initiatives. “I’m excited for this opportunity and ready to dive in and continue growing the brand,” Gobel says. “Everyone within the Pursuit family, as well as those outside of our company, have been wonderful partners and I am looking forward to working closely with them to bring the Pursuit lifestyle to even more people.” For more information, visit PURSUITBOATS.COM.

Evinrude Announces Three New Engines

The Evinrude 3-Cylinder E-TEC G2 lineup has three newcomers: 115 H.O., 140-hp and 150-hp models. These mid-range outboards house a direct injection inline three-cylinder powerhead, offering more torque and fuel efficiency at lower RPMs than comparable four-stroke engines. “We are proud to continue the legacy of Evinrude innovation in 2019 and well into the future,” says Tracy Crocker, president of the BRP Marine Group. “By bringing the E-TEC advancements to the 115 H.O., 140-hp and 150-hp models, some of the most popular outboard sizes in the market, we are once again, delivering the pinnacle in innovation and performance that inspires confidence in each and every Evinrude owner as they pursue their life on the water.” For more information, visit EVINRUDE .COM.

Expand your Horizons Go further with Volvo Penta IPS and experience up to 40% longer range than a traditional inboard. With fully integrated easy boating features and 30% enhanced fuel efficiency, you will experience greater onboard comfort to unlock your possibilities at sea. Learn more at: www.volvopenta.us/IPS

a new era in yachting 2019-08 VPA Lakeland Boating.indd 1

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SCUTTLE

BUSINESS

Twin Disc Adds Distribution Facility in Wisconsin

BUZZ

Learn to Waterski Online with Zenon Bilas

The former Port Darlington Marina located on Lake Ontario is under new ownership and has reopened as Bowmanville Marina. The marina offers 150 boat slips, full-service amenities, a newly remodeled on-site hotel and a pier-side restaurant. Visit BOWMANVILLEMARINA.COM

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Zenon Bilas, an eight-time national barefoot waterskiing champion with more than 30 years of professional experience, has started an online coaching program. Bilas now offers personalized web-based coaching to help youth and adults at every skill level learn how to waterski, barefoot and wakeboard. Students will submit footage of their waterskiing, barefoot and wakeboarding skills, and Bilas will then analyze the videos, offering personalized tips and tricks for improvement. “The student puts in all the hard work,” Bilas says. “My responsibility is to help the person achieve the goals they’ve set for themselves and motivate them to become the best they can.” For more information about the lessons, visit

Located just six miles from its global headquarters in Racine, Wisconsin, Twin Disc’s newest aftermarket distribution facility opened in Sturtevant, Wisconsin, in May. The 39,000-square-foot center focuses on shipping and storage. “The North American Aftermarket Distribution Center will be a much-needed hub for stocking and shipping all of our spare parts,” says Jorge Colorado, director, aftersales and service of Twin Disc. “This added distribution space will improve and streamline our aftersales operations and provide a greater customer experience by increasing our efficiency.” Twin Disc specializes in marine transmissions, surface drives, propellers, hydraulic torque converters and more. To learn more about the company and its newest facility, visit TWINDISC.COM.

ZENONBILAS.COM.

BUZZ

Captain Takes the Helm of Five Ohio TowBoatUS Locations

For 17 years, Capt. James “Jimmer” Kennedy has managed operations for five 24-hour TowBoatUS on-water assistance ports in Ohio. Capt. Kennedy is now the owner of the local company homeported out of Sandusky with additional TowBoatUS ports in Huron, Cedar Point, Vermilion and Lorain. Capt. Kennedy began his maritime career in high school working at Neuman Boat Line, served aboard the Kelley’s Island Ferry, and eventually became a commercial mariner with The Interlake Steamship Company, earning his U.S. Coast Guard Unlimited Master of Towing license. He began towing recreational vessels as a part-time TowBoatUS captain in 1999, and eventually led efforts to grow the company from three Lake Erie TowBoatUS locations to today’s five. Much like an auto club for boaters, TowBoatUS offers on-water Unlimited Freshwater Towing Membership

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

for $85 per year. Tows to launch ramps, marinas or private docks; battery jumps; fuel drop-offs; and soft ungrounding services are provided day or night by professional U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains. Boaters can reach all of Capt. Kennedy’s TowBoatUS ports by downloading the free BoatUS mobile app, hailing on VHF channel 16 or calling the company directly at 877-526-0229. Visit BOATUS.COM/TOWING.


SCUTTLE

OBIT

Garmin Founder Gary Burrell Has Died Gary Burrell, cofounder of Garmin, passed away on June 12 at the age of 81. Burrell retired from Garmin in 2002 and continued to serve as Garmin’s co-chairman until 2004 when he was named chairman emeritus. Burrell cofounded Garmin with Dr. Min Kao in 1989 with the vision of creating products powered by an emerging technology known as the Global Positioning System, or GPS. Thirty years later, Garmin has grown into a global location and communication product powerhouse. Prior to launching Garmin in 1989, Burrell held leadership positions at marine and aviation electronics companies including Lowrance Electronics, King Radio Corporation and AlliedSignal. He is widely regarded as one of the leading innovators of integrated avionics, having designed and developed the first successful NAV/ COMM for the general aviation market.

BOATS

Beneteau Unveils New Flyer 32

Beneteau is expanding its outboard range with the addition of the new Flyer 32 dayboat. With capacity for 11 passengers, the Flyer 32 is designed for outings with family and friends. Powered by the new Mercury V8 Twin 300-hp outboard engines and equipped with Airstep 2 technology, the Flyer 32 lifts off in just a few seconds to reach more than 40 knots. Other features include an aft bench that folds back to create a spacious sunpad; a fullyequipped galley; and two berths below, perfect for an overnight getaway. For more information on the new Flyer 32, visit BENETEAU.COM.

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SCUTTLE

BUZZ

Report Shows Boat Sales Soared in 2018 Boat sales rose to an 11-year high last year, according to an NMMA report. Americans purchased 276,000 new powerboats in 2018, up 4% from 2017. A soar in outboard boat sales — representing 85% of new powerboats sold — led to the overall increase. Marine expenditures, spending on boats, engines, trailers and accessories hit at an all-time high in 2018 at $42 billion, up 7% from 2017. “Sales of new boats and boating expenditures have been on a consistent upward climb for eight years, with some segments reaching pre-recession sales volumes,” says NMMA President Thom Dammrich. “As millions of Americans head to the water this summer, marine manufacturers and dealers are preparing for the busy selling season that coincides with peak boating months. With consumer confidence high, unemployment low, wages on the rise and interest rates holding level, we anticipate the recreational boating market to remain healthy in the year ahead with modest growth of up to 2% in new powerboat unit sales in 2019.” To see the full report, visit NMMA .ORG.

GREAT LAKES NEWS

New Ontario Project Looks At Microplastic Pollution From Washing Machines A new project launched by environmental group Georgian Bay Forever in collaboration with the University of Toronto aims to reduce microfibers released into Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay. The project, called Divert & Capture, is targeting household washing machines, testing a device which collects microfibers that run through a washing cycle. The project’s three goals are focused on improving the water quality specifically in coastal communities around Georgian Bay: Diverting microplastics and microfibers from entering the water; engaging the community in hands-on cleanup; and providing public information on the issues surrounding microplastics. The study will work with 100 to 200 Parry Sound volunteer residents who will install a filter on their washing machine, which will catch microfibers before they are washed down the drain. For more information, visit GEORGIANBAYFOREVER. ORG/ MICROPLASTICS-IMPACTS.

REMEMBER WHY YOU FELL IN LOVE WITH BOATING,

in the 1000 Islands! Tall Ships Challenge

Brockville, Ontario | Aug. 30 - Sept. 1

Add these special events to your 2019 travel calendar

International Boat Show

Alexandria Bay, NY | Sept. 16 - 22

Marinas, towns and people to fall in love with, all over again

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SCUTTLE

EVENTS

55th ABM Annual Antique Boat Show & Auction

The Antique Boat Museum (ABM) in Clayton, New York, will host its longest continuously running Antique Boat Show for the 55th year on Friday, August 2 through Sunday, August 4. The Annual Antique Boat Show & Auction features boats and motors of all makes, models and age from across the United States and Canada. This year, ABM celebrates two Baby Gars from the permanent collection: 1927 Snail and 1928 Cicada. The Marketplace returns with vendors offering a variety of local and nautical products. In addition, unique forums will be held, and the popular fundraising boat auction will be conducted by Antique Boat America on Saturday, August 3 at 1 p.m. Once you have visited the Antique Boat Museum and the Annual Antique Boat Show & Auction, take in the concert to benefit Zenda Farms Preserve on August 3, have a tasting at one of the local wineries and distilleries, or visit one of the two castles in the 1000 Islands. For more information, visit ABM.ORG.

Be sure to visit: • Landmark Cinemas at Whitby Entertainment Centrum • Local walk to plaza with restaurants, Town Brewery, groceries, Tim Hortons, liquor store... • Historic Downtown Whitby’s great restaurants and pubs • Ajax Downs Slots and Horse Racing

Marina Features Marina Office 905-668-1900

www.whitby.ca marina@whitby.ca

The Town of Whitby

offers all of the amenities of a large urban center with a small town friendly atmosphere! The marina is surrounded by acres of parkland linked by waterfront trails.

• Large harbour with easy lake access. • Accommodation for vessels up to 70 ft. • 6100 sq ft Club house w/privacy, 3-piece showers, washrooms, laundry, kitchen • Boater pub nights and special events. • FREE daily Toronto newspapers • FREE use of propane barbecues • FREE use of bicycles, kayaks and SUPs • Gas, diesel, ice and pump-out • Quality public launch ramp • Quality steel tube floating docks with spacious channels & slips • Friendly staff and management We monitor VHF channel 68

Located 23 Nautical Miles East of Toronto Harbour

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The Sabre 45 Salon Express Downeast – Cr afted in Maine

SabreYachts.com

S

abre Yachts presents the Sabre 45 Salon Express, the latest addition to the Salon Express range which has

redefined the downeast style of motor yacht over the last decade. Our design team has created a “space-within-aspace” concept, which blends interior and exterior spaces into one. In her open, social areas she has a feel of graceful space and energy; and in the privacy and comfort of her two cabins, each with en-suite head, a sanctuary exists for her owners and for their guests.

Bay Marine • WI (920) 743-6526 • IL (847) 336-2628 South Shore Marine • OH (419) 433-5798 Down East Yachting • MI (616) 494-8870 Sabre 38, 42, 45, 48, 58 & 66 Salon Express • Sabre 42,48 & 66 Fly Bridge

Sabre Corporation | 12 Hawthorne Road, Box 134 South Casco, ME 04077 | 207.655.3831


EcoPopper Fishing Lure Camera Ever wish you had underwater eyes on your fishing lure? Meet the EcoPopper, the world’s first live, wireless video camera fishing lure. Cast a line and the system streams live HD 720p video of the underwater action straight to your smartphone. The EcoPopper floats on top of the water, and its wide-angle camera can take video looking down 10 to 12 feet. Works well in both fresh and saltwater. Eight different color options are available. $189.99 AT ECOPOPPERSHOP.COM

GREAT GEAR MUST-HAVE GOODIES AND GADGETS FOR EVERY BOATER .

Magma Rail-Mounted Kayak/SUP Rack Free up deck space with Magma’s Rail-Mounted Kayak/SUP Rack. These strong, adjustable arms hold up to three SUPS, as well as kayaks and water toys of any size so you don’t have to get too creative with onboard storage. The rack is easily removable and folds flat along the rail when not in use. Made of 100% marine-grade stainless steel. Package includes two arms with pads, four backing plates and all hardware needed. $179.99 AT DEFENDER.COM

West Marine Automatic Inflatable Life Jacket Sail safely with the West Marine Ultimate Sail Automatic Inflatable Life Jacket, which provides extreme buoyancy for extreme conditions. The new Halkey Roberts 1F Hydro mechanism is smaller and sleeker, providing a reduced profile to the vest and a more comfortable fit. Features screw-in cylinder insertion, U-Flex Chassis design with an exploding zipper closure system and 40-pound buoyancy. $249.99 AT WESTMARINE .COM

BOSS Stereo Waketower Speakers

ADD YOUR GEAR

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Surf in sync with your favorite summertime jams with the new 400-watt BOSS MRWT40RGB Waketower Speakers. Made of high-tech, state-ofthe-art waterproof materials plus special UV coating for plastic surfaces, the speakers can withstand the marine environment. Also includes RGB LED illumination, allowing you to select one of 20 different color options. Sold in pairs. $144.99/PAIR AT

Email kbush@lakelandboating.com to add your awesome product news to Great Gear!

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BOSSAUDIO.COM

BoT RoP Post Mount Sick of tangled, soggy lines awaiting you back at the dock? Try BoT RoP, the retractable mooring line system that’s more versatile than a regular rope and cleat. The new Post Mount attachment (perfect for round pilings or if you don’t want to drill a hole in your dock) creates peace of mind for rising and lowering water levels. Simply lift the lid, pull the retractable line and hook to your boat’s cleat. Line can be locked into place or retract freely for fluctuating water levels. $42.95 AT BOAT-ROPE.COM

STREX Fasteners Stop wrestling with shrunken covers, struggling with painful snaps and paying for expensive canvas repairs. STREX fasteners make applying your canvas snap cover quick, easy and painless with its silicone stretch pull system. Installation is simple and can be performed in minutes without specialized equipment or the need for a professional. Available in black and white. $45/PACK OF 10 AT STREXFASTENERS.COM


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 ! CHARLIE PHOTO BY JOE JOHNSON

“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!

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WAYPOINT BY KI M R AC E T T E

Onekama, MI The “Two Lake Town.” hen developers from the Chicago area decided to launch a new travel adventure, they cruised the spectacular west coast of Michigan looking for just the right destination. They found it in Onekama, where the mighty Lake Michigan feeds into Portage Lake, with a small spit of land reaching out into the two bodies of water. It was 1903, and the Portage Point Resort opened to welcome families arriving by steamship to find cooling summer breezes and fun in the sun. Current resort owner and developer Bob Gezon is restoring the resort to its former glory one step at a time — and then some. He says the reasons those folks chose Onekama, even though they could have chosen any port along the shore, have not changed to this day. “They picked this area because Portage Lake is so unique,” Gezon explains. “It’s a kettle bottom lake — really a big reservoir — high rimmed with 80-foot dunes surrounding it.” Portage Lake is supplied by artesian wells, and over the years many visitors have come here to take in the healthy waters. “There are no tributaries, just spring water, and the water quality is off the hook,” Gezon says. “It’s also a safe harbor for ships coming out of the big lake. They can dock the boat and then walk about a football length away to the beaches, either ours or on Lake Michigan. [It’s] really the best of both worlds.”

Onekama Marine

Best-kept secret — for now Onekama is located in Manistee County and nestled on the shores of Portage Lake in the Manistee State Forest. Its name is derived from the Anishinaabe word “Ona-ga-maa”, or “singing water.” It’s often called the “Two Lake Town” and is one of Michigan’s best-kept secrets. “Onekama is the gateway to the north and the first

Portage Point Inn

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village on M-22 designated as a Pure Michigan Byway,” Al Taylor — a retired engineer who is now involved with many local associations including the Grand Traverse Regional Board and the Portage Lake Association — proudly points out. “Our Explore the Shores programs in Onekama provide universal access to various locations including the beaches and kayak launches for folks who normally wouldn’t be able to visit them.” Taylor says that this 2,500-acre all sports lake is just about perfect for boaters. “It’s a deepwater port that can handle large sailboats and deepwater boats,” he says, “and the channel has just recently been given a major facelift.” Onekama Marine Inc., and Lake Michigan Yacht Sales Owner Jim Mrozinski explains that Portage Lake is a state-certified Harbor of Refuge. In a sudden storm, that designation could be a lifesaver. “Portage Lake is centrally located, so boats north and south of us can quickly find refuge here,” Mrozinski says. “The channel is wide, very safe, and of course the lake can support boats of all sizes.” Servicing this area for 56 years, Onekama Marine has been certified as a Clean Marina, which means it’s a facility that has met specific state requirements and standards to qualify. “We are blessed here with tremendous water quality and we love the water, so we are doing what we can to protect it,” Mrozinski says. With this level of experience comes responsibility, and Mrozinski says that his staff is trained to offer a high level of knowledge and personalized service to those needing their assistance. “When you are dealing with the Great Lakes, or even a smaller inland lake, that boat has to meet the needs of that boater,” he says. Very diversified, and in combination with its Lake Michigan Yacht Sales sales office located in the Bay Harbor/Petoskey area, the dealer has a large selection of boats to choose from. Onekama Marine also offers all of the full-service amenities boaters need. “We have a very professional crew, most of them boaters too, that repair and refurbish boats, and a service department that provides outstanding mechanical expertise,” Mrozinski says. “We are a family run business that appreciates our customers and their loyalty, and this sure isn’t our first regatta!”

GOLF PHOTO BY DAN PERRY; MARINA PHOTO COURTESY OF ONEKAMA MARINE; PORTAGE PONT INN PHOTO COURTESY OF MANISTEE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU

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ALL PHOTOS THIS PAGE COURTESY OF MANISTEE COUNTY VISITORS BURE AU

Arcadia Bluffs Golf

Peace and calm Portage Lake is also well known for what lurks below in its crystal clear waters, and nearby are both the Betsie and Big Manistee Rivers, known for record steelhead, lake trout and salmon. Mark Vickery, an avid hunter and fisherman, was on a fishing charter back in 2003 when he too spotted this area from the water. He and his wife, Terie, bought property in Onekama and now spend most of their weekends “up north” with their son Jake. “We were looking for a place on Lake Michigan but not in a busy town,” Terie says, “somewhere that was quiet and private, where we could get outside all seasons.” Sunsets over the big lake at the end of the day are a favorite time for Terie. “I don’t know if it’s the combination of sun, sand, water and forest, but I feel a peace and calmness I don’t feel anywhere else on Earth,” she says. Mark agrees: “Onekama filled our vision of being alone but not. If you drew a circle around this area it is unbelievable how much there is to do: Best fishing ports this side of the lake, world-class hunting, hiking trails second to none, kayaking and boating, apple and cherry orchards, and shipwrecks up and down the coast.” Mark also points to the quiet. “At night there is no noise or light pollution,” he says. “Friends who visit hear the wind and see the stars in ways they have never before.” Small shops and family owned restaurants dot the small downtown of Onekama, and the Friday Night Concerts in the Village Park are popular. This is small-town America, and the vibe is definitely casual and welcoming. Other events during the season include the Onekama Block Party in July and Onekama Days in August. The Glenwood is a popular dining spot, located on M-22 in a historic 1920s resort overlooking both Portage Lake and the channel to Lake Michigan. The history of this village is well-documented, and both the town and the lake have historic site maps to important locations for those who appreciate getting to know the area while they are visiting. For those who enjoy hitting the links, Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club designed by Warren Henderson is just a short drive or shuttle away. This spectacular club features

Portage Lake

Scottville Clown Band at Friday Night Concerts in the Park

lake views, glorious greens and Downtown Onekama undulating hills that will challenge even a seasoned golfer. As the day comes to an end on the weekends, a bagpiper welcomes the evening, echoing off the rolling terrain and into the hills. After a long day full of stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, tubing or making sand castles with the kids near either of the two lakes, it’s time to get cleaned up and settle in for the evening. Warm food for the young one’s tummies, and maybe something cold with fresh fruit and an umbrella proudly standing in the ice for the grown-ups. Back at Portage Point Resort, shuffleboard is in full slide, Music Under the Stars is warming up on the deck, the bonfire pits are lit and welcoming, and Baby is NOT in the corner. “People tell us this place reminds them of the movie Dirty Dancing, and it was designed by the same architects who built the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island,” Gezon says. “It does harken back to a time many really enjoy, with a nostalgia for a life that was a bit slower and simpler. Folks tell us they can find that here in Onekama.” ★ LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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BENEATH THE SURFACE BY HE AT H E R ST E IN B E R GER

Pontoon Power Thanks to design innovations and amped-up horsepower, pontoon boats are giving fiberglass boats a run for their money. ou don’t have to be a pontoon boat owner to know that today’s pontoons aren’t like the ones that used to putter around local lakes with a few folding chairs, Styrofoam coolers and an old umbrella or two. In the last 10 to 15 years, it’s become common knowledge that pontoons are much more comfy. What’s less common knowledge is that they’re also faster. Much faster. Recent leaps forward in design and technology have put pontoon boats on par with their fiberglass counterparts — from high-octane performance and nimble handling right down to the slick amenities you’ll find at your fingertips. It’s a brave new world for pontoons. Tritooning it According to Andrew St. Peter, marketing and communications lead for Manitou Boats in Lansing, Michigan, the first major game-changer happened in 2005 with the introduction of the company’s patented V-Toon hull. This isn’t just a basic third log; it’s a 27-inch tube positioned 1.25 inches lower

than the 23-inch outside tubes. This exact positioning, plus positive-angle lifting strakes, gives the pontoon boat the water displacement and deadrise it needs to match the performance of a standard V-hull boat. “It’ll bank similar to a V-hull,” St. Peter explains. “At speed, the boat leans into the turn, and it can turn on a dime.” Pontoons have always been able to absorb the impact of rough water fairly well, but with the deeper middle tubes and lifting strakes, boaters will have a much more comfortable ride. The boat will be more agile as well. “You’re not going through the waves,” says Hayden Hall, sales manager for Muskegon, Michigan-based Hall’s Sport Center, which sells both Manitou and Bennington pontoons. “In 1- to 2-foot chop, you’ll hardly feel it. There’s no crashing or getting bogged down and submarining.” Tritoons naturally run bow-high. They immediately glide upward, planing rather than plowing through the water. “It’s hard to explain a tritoon’s ability to get out of the water as quickly as it does,” St. Peter says. Even the polished aluminum sponsons are getting into the performance business. Offering more than just a mirror-like finish, they are expertly designed to feature a shaped running surface. Some, like those from Bennington Pontoon Boats, feature oval-shaped sponsons rather than round ones. “Bennington’s pontoon shape is more traditional, with more surface area and more buoyancy, so you can add more weight,” Hall says. “Manitou, on the other hand, has V-shaped pontoons up front for better turning and handling. They’ll get on top of the water faster, too.” The need for speed The next big leap came just within the last three or four years, when pontoon manufacturers started offering twin-engine packages. With an engine on each corner, a pontoon boat is more stable and responsive, and it can handle rough water even better. The twin-engine configuration also can deliver a whopping 600 to 800 hp, depending on the model. Hall notes this rivals the performance of a traditional bowrider. St. Peter agrees. “When I came to Manitou, this was something I didn’t expect,” he says. “That horsepower is just crazy. The boat can do anything a glass boat can do. When you ride one, your expectations for a pontoon boat are changed forever. “Those dual-engine models feel like you’re riding a rollercoaster,” St. Peter continues. “It’s like you’re on rails, yet you’re so much more comfortable as you push the boat to its limit.” The comfort factor is a significant one, involving both stability and space. Unlike a 21-foot fiberglass boat, for example, a pontoon boat can hold 10 to 14 people rather than six to eight.

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ALL PHOTOS COU RTESY OF BENNINGTON AND MANITOU

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“A tritoon with big power is fast but comfortable, and it can carry a lot of people,” Hall affirms. “Everyone can bring a friend, and enjoy what is essentially a living room on the water.” After a brief pause, he adds, “A very fast living room.” It’s not uncommon to see speeds of 60 and even 70 mph. Hall remembers a boat demo on Lake Michigan that involved a 27-foot Manitou pontoon with all fiberglass siding and twin Mercury engines. “We hit 72 mph without modifications,” he says. “That boat was stock from the factory. It was just unbelievable speed. A Chicago Bear bought it.” Getting the full experience Performance enhancements like the tritoon design, shaped sponsons, lifting strakes and a second engine mean that today’s pontoons can indeed perform like their fiberglass counterparts — with the comfort, room and stability of a pontoon. Boaters, unsurprisingly, are responding with enthusiasm. “People love that the pontoon corners like a jetboat and has the pickup of a jetboat,” Hall says. “And they love those big motors.” St. Peter adds, “Some boaters really want to go fast, and they want a boat that can handle the extremes they’ll be putting it through.” When you’ve got three logs and substantial horsepower on the back, you do not have a party barge, nor do you want one. What you do want is the full high-performance experience, and to that end, manufacturers are making all the goodies available — because now those accessories make perfect sense. These include fiberglass sides and decking for a highperformance look, joysticks for an extra measure of control and handling (particularly at the dock), auto trim so you can optimize your running angle, and power steering so you feel like you’re driving a sports car with one finger instead of simply enduring prop torque with white knuckles. Then there is digital integration. The old-school array of gauges and guesswork at the helm has been deftly replaced with a user-friendly, touchscreen digital display that also includes GPS. “This gives you exact answers and allows you to show people your actual performance stats, so you have bragging rights,” St. Peter says with a laugh.

That’s not all. You’ll also find options for fold-down power arches, walk-through windshields, and even ski towers and tubing pylons. What the future may hold This means a pontoon can do everything you want it to do, and at roughly $25,000 to $40,000 for a brand-new model, it’s going to cost less than its twin-engine fiberglass counterpart. “My generation is looking for functionality, and people have a hard time not justifying a tritoon,” Hall says. “It holds the most people, it’s easy and it’s affordable. “If you’re a doubter,” he adds, “just go for a demo.” Looking forward, the biggest design trends are likely to involve performance. As it continues to improve, your pontoon can be your watersports boat, your day cruiser, your angling platform and the perfect place to entertain at the dock. It will be able to go faster, handle better, and perhaps even manage the Great Lakes’ temperamental waters. “I don’t think boats in the next 10 years will look anything like those from the last 10 years,” St. Peter muses. We can’t wait. ★

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.

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DON’T HESITATE TO RENOVATE BY C A P T. F R A N K L A N IE R

Trailer Emergency Repair Kit

Always use a secondary safety line or chain between the bow eye and trailer.

Don’t leave home without it!

Check all lights and wire connections for proper installation and operation, particularly when towing at night.

A

To further hedge your bets while on the road, consider purchasing emergency road service coverage offered by many vessel-assist organizations (Sea Tow, BoatUS, etc.). Unlike terrestrial policies, most cover boat trailer issues as well — a major plus in the event of a trailer towing doomsday scenario like a broken axle. Cost for this extra coverage is typically very reasonable, particularly when considering the additional peace of mind it provides.

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 .

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❏ A good basic tool kit. At a minimum, it should include large and small socket sets and wrenches (standard and metric), assorted screwdrivers, pliers and any specialty tools required for your trailer (an extra-large socket to fit a trailer hub nut, for example). ❏ Hammer (to assist with the removal of frozen bearings, etc.). ❏ Set of locking pliers (such as ViceGrip). ❏ Spare tire and jack. If relying on your tow vehicle’s jack, verify it’ll also work for your trailer (many won’t) and that it’s beefy enough to lift both boat and trailer. ❏ Spare hub, preferably one with bearings already installed and ready for action. ❏ Four-way lug nut wrench. ❏ Extra lug nuts. ❏ Spare fuses and bulbs (for both trailer and tow vehicle). ❏ Wire connector kit (assorted butt connectors, wire stripper and crimps).

Trailer safety checklist ❏ Spare electrical wire (for repairs on the fly). ❏ Electrical tape. ❏ Roll of duct tape (would any emergency kit really be complete without it?). ❏ Extra bearing protector. ❏ Grease gun and marine-grade grease. ❏ Sheet of emery paper (to sand scarred axle spine, etc.). ❏ Assorted blocks of wood and a few boards (good for blocking or leveling the trailer when changing a tire). ❏ Spare cotter pins. ❏ Lock for trailer hitch (should you have to leave your trailer). ❏ Wheel chocks. ❏ Weatherproof flashlight, preferably a “hands-free” headset unit. ❏ Knife. ❏ Large can of tire inflator and sealant (like Fix-a-flat). ❏ Portable 12 VDC air compressor. ❏ Assorted plastic wire ties, including larger lengths (10 to 13 inches).

❏ Pair of vinyl gloves. ❏ Pair of mechanics gloves. ❏ Pack of pre-moistened hand wipes for clean-up after tire changes, etc. ❏ Small wire brush or tool to clean corrosion from connectors, bulb sockets, etc. ❏ Can of WD40 and PB Blaster. ❏ Small tube of marine-grade dielectric grease (to help keep out moisture and maintain good electrical conductivity). ❏ Multi-meter or circuit tester to troubleshoot lights, etc. ❏ Bearing grease. ❏ Extra tongue pin. ❏ Spare trailer taillight lens or translucent red tape for temporary repairs. ❏ Rain poncho. ❏ Extra trailer safety chain and mounting shackles. ❏ Spare ratchet securing strap. ❏ A good roadside emergency kit complete with flares, reflectors, etc.

Trailer inspection tips Check that the safety chains are in place and crisscrossed To head off potential problems while traveling, stop after 50 miles or so in a protected area to check your boat and trailer. It’s between the tow vehicle and the trailer coupling; this also good practice for every stop, particularly during longer trips. arrangement should prevent the trailer coupler from separating Walk around your trailer and check the trailer hitch attachment completely from the tow vehicle in the event of a failure. for looseness, missing retaining pins, etc. Check lug nuts for Safety chains should have enough slack to allow for tightness and touch each wheel bearing to check for overheating. proper turning, but not so much that they drag. As the Inspect stern tie-down straps for snugness, the bow standard S-hooks found on most safety chains can jiggle eye for looseness or deformation, and make sure that loose, consider changing them to screw-pin shackles or the winch cable or strap is tight. Never rely solely on the other positively controlled fittings. Finally, check all lights on the trailer and tow vehicle winch cable to secure the bow; instead use a separate line for proper operation, broken lenses or loose hardware. ★ or chain between the bow eye and trailer.

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PHOTOS COU RTESY OF CAPT. F RANK LANIER

Emergency Road Service Coverage

lthough most trailer-boat owners don’t think about it, your boat can leave you stranded on land as easily as on the water. From blown fuses to frozen wheel bearings, breakdowns are just as likely to occur while trailering to that pristine spot as they are after launching. When it happens, nothing will get you back on the road faster than having a comprehensive trailer emergency repair kit. To thwart Murphy and his law, here’s a list of items to consider when assembling your own trailer emergency repair kit.


CRUISING WITH KIDS BY DI A N E SELTZER

The Ideal Family Boat

Choosing the right boat size and style for your family.

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PHOTOS BY DIANE SELTZER

urchasing a boat is certainly a big investment, so you want to make sure that you choose the best possible boat for your family’s boating lifestyle. From how you use a boat to its layout and design, there’s a lot you’ll want to consider to ensure your days on the water with kids are both safe and enjoyable. Over the years, I have seen families with kids on all types of boats in all size ranges — from smaller bowriders to larger cabin cruisers — and it’s obvious that one size does not fit all. Each boat type offers different boating experiences. And depending on the age of your children, your family may have unique boat preferences for space, functionality and use. Prioritizing what type of boat will work best for your family is the first step in choosing between the hundreds of amazing boat models available to boaters today. Boat use and functionality Before selecting a boat, you’ll first want to decide how your family plans to use your boat. Are you a day or weekend boater? Are you interested in watersport activities with the kids or do you need more space for overnight cruising to new destinations? Most dayboaters with kids are looking for a boat that can be easily transported to different locations on the water and accommodate a variety of watersport activities like tubing or waterskiing. A smaller, sporty boat, bowrider or pontoon will give your family the flexibility to enjoy hours of fun at your favorite lake locations. On the other hand, weekend boaters may want to opt for a bigger boat that is spacious enough for overnight stays. In bigger cabin cruiser-style boats, you’ll likely be more comfortable cruising longer distances with kids and you’ll have more range to visit and explore new destinations. Although bigger boats may require a slip rental, marinas can provide additional family friendly amenities (like a pool, playground or restaurant) that add to the boating experience. Are your kids really young? Their age could be a factor when choosing a boat. A flybridge-style boat, for example, may be spacious but may pose a safety concern with young kids climbing stairs to an upper deck. Similarly, a faster ski or wakeboat may be more appropriate when your kids are a bit older to safely enjoy watersport activities. Another big question you’ll need to decide: Inboards or outboards? Outboards have been increasing in popularity because they are economical and allow you to anchor close to shore. However, inboards allow the props to be safely tucked underneath the boat with easy swim platform access for kids swimming behind the boat. Each comes with advantages and disadvantages you’ll want to consider for your family.

Space and comfort Many boaters are drawn to boats equipped with all the latest technology features, but ensuring all your family’s basic requirements for comfort are met is just as important. • Cockpit layout: Is there enough seating for the whole family and are you able to keep little ones within arm’s reach? How about easy access for watersport or swimming activities? Is it difficult for kids to board the boat? • Cruising: How well does the boat handle wakes or choppy water? • Cabin space: Is there any cabin space for young kids to nap during the day? Is there enough space for everyone to comfortably spend one or more nights? • Storage: How much space do you need for baby or toddler gear? Do you have enough storage for all the kid’s activities you plan to do? • Head and galley: Do you have a head for kids to use? Is there a small galley to prepare a meal or snack? • Sun protection: Is there enough sun protection on the boat or do you need to add a more permanent sunshade to protect your kids? Budget The final deciding factor when choosing your family boat may ultimately be your budget. Your budget will likely influence the boat size, brand or model year selected. How often your family plans to use the boat and how many years you plan to keep it should also factor into how much you are willing to spend. If your budget is tight — or you are unsure how your family may want to use a boat — you may want to consider joining a boat club. Clubs give you access to a variety of boats for a monthly fee and can be a great option for families looking to get their feet wet with boating. ★

DIANE SELTZER is an avid boater, marketing director for SureShade sunshade systems, author of the children’s book “The Amazing Adventures of Boat Girl” and runs the boating lifestyle sites MYBOATLIFE .COM and BOATERKIDS.COM.

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ELECTRONICS BY G L E N N H AY E S

Sunscreen For Screens Protect electronic screens from the marine environment.

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e all know that the sun can be harsh on our skin and we should be taking steps to ensure that we don’t end up with a sunburn. The same is true for the screens on marine electronics. Neglect and indifference can result in a burned out, dim, foggy and scratched screen that will require premature replacement. The summer sun and heat can affect and damage these bright, crisp screens, but a little prevention can go a long way in adding years to their service.

GLENN HAYES is a marine writer and photographer whose background in the marine industry and in marine electronics spans almost three decades and many thousands of miles at sea traveling the world. He can be reached at HAYESSTUDIOS.COM .

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Keep it clean Many displays have coatings to prevent glare and add clarity. James McGowan, marketing manager for FLIR in the Americas, says that every manufacturer uses different materials on their screens, so it’s always best to check your owner’s handbook for cleaning instructions. “Generally, the use of ammonia-based glass cleaners on marine screens is a universal no-no,” McGowan says. “Many screens have coatings applied to them for anti-glare and those can be damaged over time by harsh chemicals.” McGowan says the best way to clean a dirty or grimy screen

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is with freshwater and a microfiber towel. “Blow off any sand or loose dirt, mist the screen with water and polish dry with the microfiber,” he says. For really stubborn dirt and grime McGowan recommends “regular old boat soap to help lift it. Then rinse well and polish dry with the microfiber towel.” Try to stay away from any cleaners with ammonia, alcohol or other harsh ingredients. Touch screens are particularly susceptible to getting dirty, and a quick clean will not only improve the screen clarity but can also help with the touch operability. Another option to keep your screens clean is a good-quality sunglass cleaner that doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals. Having one of these onboard with a microfiber cloth can serve double-duty keeping everyone’s sunglasses pristine. Take it inside One of the easiest ways to care for your electronic screens is to keep them out of harsh environments as often as possible. When aboard and in use, screens may see weather extremes, including heat and cold; however, when not in use, try to keep them in moderate temperatures and in a dry environment. If permanently installed aboard, you obviously can’t remove the electronics; however, do try keeping them covered, ventilated and out of the elements. In the direct sun, displays can see high temperatures and the screens can even act as a magnifying glass, increasing temperature on the inside surfaces of the screen. We may have all seen “burned” spots in the center of older screens, and many times this is the result of extensive overheating. Making sure they are stored in moderate temperatures can easily avoid this. Just as you benefit from being clean and inside, out of the extreme heat, cold and harmful sun’s rays, so do your electronics. With a little care, they should serve you for seasons to come. ★

PHOTOS BY GLENN HAYES

(Top right) Use a screen cover to protect electronic screens from the sun when not in use. (Above) Clean screens using a microfiber towel and sunglass cleaner.

Cover up Today’s electronics are designed to be rugged and withstand the elements, but the sun and heat can still affect their longevity and usefulness. One of the easiest ways to protect your high-tech screens from the elements is to put a cover on them when not in use. Many high-end displays come standard with a snap-on cover. If your display did not come with one, chances are one can be ordered that will offer protection from impact and the elements. Even if you take your electronics off the boat at the end of each day, putting a cover on will help protect against scratches and dings. Some covers on newer displays click into place when pressed onto the screen and can take a fair amount of force to remove. These covers will not blow off when trailering the boat or while underway. If the unit is bracket- or gimbalmounted, a simple rubber band around the cover and unit will avoid the cost and hassle of a lost cover. If flush-mounted, avoid losing loose-fitting covers by the simple addition of white electrical tape on the inside edges of the cover. This adds to the inside tolerances of the cover and makes for a tighter fit. The white tape also lacks the black goopy mess that can result from the more common black electrical tape when it weathers over time. The same snug fit can also be created by smearing a small amount of silicone sealant onto the inside edge of the cover with your finger. Don’t overdo it, though; just a thin layer will add thickness and retention.


SAFETY FIRST BY HEL EN A I T K EN

Safe Kayaking

P HOTO BY E D DUN E N S

Know kayak rules and regulations before you pick up the paddle.

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ayaking has increased in popularity, creating the need for specialized designs. They’ve evolved from wood to polyethylene or thermoformed ABS plastic found in powerboat hull interiors, to composites of fiberglass, Kevlar and carbon fiber. Today’s durable materials are lightweight with storage compartments, bungee ties and even fish boxes. The higher the quality and the more features, the pricier they become. Expect to pay anywhere between $300 to 4,500 for a new kayak. There are kayaks designed for fishing; these can be more expensive, but most kayaks can be modified with attachments to hold fishing gear. Since kayaks are boats, they must adhere to U.S. Coast Guard regulations. Whether a sit-on, sit-in or tandem kayak, the requirements are the same: Life jackets designed for kayaks must be worn at all times; and it must be equipped with a sounding device (whistle or horn) from sunrise to sunset, and navigational lights (headlight or lantern) with visual signaling devices (flares or electronic distress signal) from sunset to sunrise. However, these are minimum requirements; other things should be considered for safety sake. Choose well The Great Lakes are considered non-tidal waters; however, winds may move water like in a bathtub. When this happens it’s called a seiche. Water may rise and fall several feet in a period of four to seven hours, similar to a tide. Therefore, sea kayaks are best for Great Lakes touring. They sit low in the water, are longer and faster, have smaller cockpits that keep the paddler dryer, are stable for open water and minimize crosswind effects. Be a waterkeeper Preserving water quality is everyone’s responsibility. Take the time to keep aquatic nuisances from spreading by keeping your kayak clean. Empty any water, remove mud, plants and animals from the kayak before transporting it. Never release anything, including bait, into the water. Let your kayak, trailer and other equipment dry for at least five days before using it again. Things you’ll need to bring (and do) • Lightweight paddles make paddling easier, but the lightest ones are more expensive. • Leash down everything in case you turn over. Think about leashes for the paddles and fishing rods. • Larger kayaks require a trailer; otherwise, use a rack for the vehicle roof. • Bring water, food, charts, compass, bailer and first aid kit. • Devise a float plan, even for short trips.

• Dress for water temperatures and wear waterproof shoes to keep your toes dry and warm. Do you need cold water gear? Don’t forget your hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. • For overnight trips bring gloves, a repair kit, a sponge, a whistle, waterproof pouches, a dry bag with clothes, GPS, airbags for flotation, a cell phone and/or VHF radio (use Channel 16 for emergencies/distress channel). Optional equipment Depending on where you kayak or for how long, you might say, “I wish I had brought ___.” Think ahead. If you need it on a powerboat, you’ll probably need it on a kayak, especially if it’s a long trip or overnight. The following things will be helpful: A rescue cord/line (required in Canada) for towing, a survival blanket, spray skirt and perhaps an EPIRB.

Resources BOAT-ED.COM/ PADDLESPORTS K AYAKFISHTHEGREAT LAKES.COM PADDLESMART.COM USPS.ORG

Safety first Before your first time out — or if it’s been a while — think about taking an online course like the Paddlesports Safety by the American Canoe Association (ACA) (AMERICANCANOE.ORG). • Kayaking in unknown waters? Find a local, certified guide. • Always wear a life jacket. Be prepared to capsize and swim. • Practice flipping your kayak over and righting it so you don’t panic when it happens. • Know the waters and understand navigational aids, give way to other boaters and know where to use “red right returning.” • Kayaks can go where other boats cannot. However, don’t anchor underneath bridges and never approach within 100 yards of any U.S. Naval ship, military vessel, commercial boat, cruise line ship or power plants. Top safety tips • Know your limits. Paddling can be strenuous, and being in the sun or weather for long periods of time is draining. • Boat with a buddy; it’s safer and may be more fun. • Watch for boats, weather changes and submerged items. • Distribute your weight. The heaviest items in the kayak should be centralized. • Understand that you’re closer to the water and harder for boats to see, especially predawn and twilight. Wear colors like lime green, fluorescent yellow or orange that are seen easily. • Use common sense, be prepared and don’t take chances. First timers should go with experienced kayakers or take lessons from a kayaking company. If it’s love at first paddle, join a kayaking organization for short and long trips. ★

HELEN AITKEN is a boating writer, photographer and science educator from eastern North Carolina. She loves classic wooden boats, is a U.S. Power Squadrons member and plays in the Intracoastal Waterway. Visit her website at AITKENHELEN.COM.

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BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY A L A N W E N DT

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 27'2" Beam: 9'4"

Designed with the angler in mind.

Draft: 34"/21" Weight: 7,000 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 180 gals. Water Capacity: 21 gals. Power: 600 hp Base Price: Contact dealer BLACKFINBOATS.COM

DEALERS Grand Pointe Marina GRANDPOINTEMARINA.COM

Munson Marine MUNSONMARINE .COM

Pier 53 Marine PIER53MARINE .COM

River Valley Power & Sport RIVERVALLEYPOWER ANDSPORT.COM

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Blackfin 272DC

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ll-purpose seems to be the underlying theme of many boats on the market today, with the emphasis on family. Blackfin’s 272DC is versatile, however the focus of design is with the angler in mind. This twin outboarddriven model has a 180-gallon fuel capacity, making it possible to reach remote fishing grounds and still have plenty of fuel at the end of the weekend. Built for the roughest seas, aka the Great Lakes, Blackfin sports an elegant exterior style to go along with its smooth ride. In the cockpit, an insulated, 30-gallon baitwell with a blue/white light, see-through face and cutting board lid is built into the transom. There is a faucet for wash down with both fresh and raw water. Storage for your catch is in the cockpit sole, with two fish boxes connected to macerated pump-outs. Blackfin has placed four stainless steel gunnel-mounted rod holders and three transom-mounted holders on the 272DC. Overhead in the fiberglass hardtop system are four additional rod holders. Serious anglers may want to consider the optional Taco outriggers with carbon fiber telescoping poles.

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Just to add icing to the cake, the optional LED underwater lights offer a bit of bling dockside and help to attract fish at night. Aside from the anglers’ needs, this a great dayboat for entertaining. A wetbar with sink, flip-up faucet and 35-quart Yeti Tundra Carry-on cooler are standard. Personally, I’d add the optional drawer 12V refrigerator, electric grill and cockpit table that has a vertical side mount base forward. The Blackfin 272DC comes with a standard Fusion stereo with Apple dock, is Satellite ready and has JL speakers with LED lights. There is an upgrade with larger speakers, subwoofers and boosted amp. Because anglers have so many electronics packages to choose from, along with brand preference, Blackfin has designed ample room in the helm for a multifunction display and recommends a Garmin electronics package that includes GPS/chartplotter and transducer, as well as Garmin GMR 18xHD Radome. No dayboat is complete without an enclosed head. Choose between a porta-potti with pump-out deck fitting or the optional electric toilet with holding tank and pump-out. H


BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY A L A N WEN DT

Chris-Craft Launch 28 GT

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 28'9" Beam: 8'6"

Classic boatbuilder, modern bowrider.

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ategorically speaking it’s a bowrider. Any further generality about Chris-Craft’s Launch 28 GT would be slanderous. This American boatbuilding icon rewrites the definitions of art and luxury. From an electrically retractable hardtop and a gleaming varnished mahogany steering wheel to the buttery almond upholstery with “new wave” stitching, every curve exudes a new level of marine elegance. Teak accents from the bow to the swim platform complement snap-in woven seagrass mats underfoot, although why not opt for a teak sole? Deep blue metallic paint (other colors are available) holds true to the company’s heralded tradition. “The new Chris-Craft Launch 28 GT offers the latest design features that boaters are looking for, including an electric folding tower and a starboard side door for easy access to its perfectly designed cockpit,” notes Craig Duchow of Centerpointe Yacht Sales. “Powered by a Mercury V8 6.2L (300-hp) B3 DTS sterndrive, this boat is sporty, handles well and delivers a very dry, smooth ride.” A wide captain’s chair puts you in control behind an impeccably laid out dash, complete with Chris-Craft-branded

Draft: 17"/36.5" Weight: 7,800 lbs

gleaming gauges, push-button controls and a 12-inch Garmin navigation screen with CZone digital switching. The Launch 28 GT delivers with newly designed air vents, compartment latches and cleats. Throughout the cockpit, rounded seats and sun lounges in the open bow and aft deck are almost too pretty for a sunscreened body to lounge upon. But if you must, enjoy the aft sunpad’s special feature, with backrests that slide forward to extend the lounge and slide back to create an aft forward-facing bench. Beneath many of the seats are hinged stowage compartments for towels and beach bags. Deeper compartments to port of the aft sun lounge offer room for fenders, skis and scuba gear. A portable marine head under the port cockpit, a drawer refrigerator and an optional sink and grill show that Chris-Craft rises above the “sea of sameness” when comparing boat brands. Chris-Craft also offers this boat in an outboard configuration. Be sure to ask for a full demonstration of the newly designed hardtop that is half arch, half Bimini. For traveling, dry stack or boathouse storage, the electrically actuated fold down mechanism is the icing on the cake. H

Fuel Capacity: 85 gals. Water Capacity: 20 gals. Power: Mercury V8 6.2L (300 HP) B3 DTS Base Price: Contact dealer CHRISCRAFT.COM

DEALERS

Centerpointe Yacht Sales 414-310-2492 CENTERPOINTE SERVICE.COM

South Shore Marine 419-273-9866 SOUTHSHOREMARINE.COM

Walstrom Marine 231-597-4044

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WALSTROM.COM

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BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY A L A N W E N DT

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 30' Beam: 10'

Family friendly pocket cruiser.

Draft: 29" Weight: 9,800 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 300 gals. Water Capacity: 80 gals. Base Price: Contact dealer CUTWATERBOATS.COM

DEALER Manitowoc Marina MANITOWOC-MARINA.COM

920-682-5117

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Cutwater C-302 Coupe

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utwater’s C-302 Coupe is a perfect combination of pocket cruiser that’s powered by outboards, trailerable and quite capable for overnighting or spending that summer vacation exploring some quiet, out of the way anchorages in the North Channel,” says Rich Larsen of Manitowoc Marina. One of several designs available in the 30-foot range, this model is surprisingly family friendly, versatile and includes every accessory you’d want on a boat. Starting on the stern, an electric grill in the transom compartment lifts up for access to the 30-gallon livewell beneath. You’ll find rod holders on the transom and more in the hardtop. When not in use, gunwale seats fold outward and you’re set for entertaining outdoors. Inside the salon is a handcrafted buffet top that lifts to reveal a two-burner stove and a galley sink with a convection microwave below. Transforming features continue as the forward doublewide helm station converts to become a dinette. Lay both seats down and create one of three berths for two onboard. Below decks are a master and guest room, spacious head and shower. For 30 feet there is an amazing sense of privacy afforded to all parties.

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The C-302 Coupe’s double-stepped hull incorporates a patented Laminar Flow Interrupter technology for smooth, positive cornering. Powered by a pair of twin counter-rotating 300-hp Yamaha outboards, speeds in excess of 50 mph are possible at wide open throttle. Ideally, you’ll cruise around 3500 RPM and roughly 24 mph with a fuel burn of around 18 gph. Electronics wise, the helm easily handles a couple of Garmin 7612 navigation displays, 4kw radar dome, fish finder and autopilot. There is ample room for customizing. A hidden feature on the foredeck is two flush hatches that open to reveal cushioned, secure observation seats, along with a central forward lounge. When the sun gets too hot, an aft cockpit sunshade deploys, which includes a sunset shade. Step inside and cool off in air conditioning, or put the reverse cycle heat to work during fall color cruises. Single-handed cruising is no problem with the optional bow and stern thrusters. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, the hardtop has a Kyocera solar panel to top off the AGM batteries. You may never need to fire up the gas generator and disturb the bears in one of those quiet anchorages again. H


BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY A L A N WEN DT

Sea-Doo Rec Lite

SPECIFICATIONS

Two models that make for affordable family fun.

Rider Capacity: 2-3/2-3

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was leading a flotilla of about 40 Sea Rays to Presque Isle in one of the worst summer fogs in memory. At idle speed, the sound of ship’s bells clanging and slip assignment chatter with the harbormaster on the VHF was suddenly broken by laughter from the waterline. We were surrounded by dozens of Sea-Doo’s arriving at the exact same moment. The group, part of an annual Great Lakes Harbor Hop, had no radar or chartplotters but plenty of eager riders out for an adventure. Sea-Doo has for years turned dreams of family fun on the water into reality. This year, its Rec Lite family of watercraft (including the SPARK and SPARK TRIXX models) continues to innovate with new features like a revolutionary Bluetoothcompatible audio system that brings powerful and accessible sound to the water. The 50-watt, waterproof option easily mounts to both the Sea-Doo SPARK and SPARK TRIXX models, is portable for moving to the beach, dock or cabin, and has an amazing battery life of 24 hours at 50% of its power. Designed for two or three riders, the Sea-Doo SPARK is affordable, fuel efficient and easy to tow with even a small car. For first-time boaters, the scratch- and impact-resistant, lightweight

SPARK/SPARK TRIXX Weight: 405 lbs./422 lbs.

Polytec Hull material is designed to withstand unintentional bumps that occur around docks. The watercraft boasts some meaningful technology like Intelligent Throttle Control, a closed-loop cooling system and a multifunctional gauge. The Sea-Doo SPARK 2-UP has two engine choices: A 60-hp Rotax 900 ACE or, for a few dollars more, the 90-hp Rotax 900 HO ACE. The larger engine is what you’ll find on the SPARK 3-UP, delivering a top-speed of close to 50 mph and capable of towing passengers on a tube, waterskis and wakeboard. For those who like trick riding or competitive events, check out the SPARK TRIXX 3-UP. This PWC lets riders pull off freestyle tricks such 180-degree hops and tail-stands with ease. An adjustable handlebar, angled foot supports and extended range variable trim system make this model the most versatile entry-level watercraft in Sea Doo’s history. Colors include Orange Crush/Chili Pepper and Jalapeno/Pear. These PWC models have a variety of options that help keep the price low. One option worthy of consideration is the Intelligent Brake and Reverse known as iBR. Brakes are a good thing — especially for new drivers. H

Fuel Capacity: 7.9 gals./7.9 gals. Engine: Rotax 900 ACE/ Rotax 900 HO ACE Base Price: $5,399/$7,499 SEA-DOO.COM

DEALERS J&J Sales Port Clinton/Huron, OH POWERSPORTS360.COM

Nielsen Power Sports Lake Villa, IL NIELSENS.COM

Village Motor Sports Holland, MI VMSHOLLAND.COM

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCOUT BOATS

BOAT TEST

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Scout 255 Dorado Crossing the line.

B Y C H U C K WA R R E N

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n the automotive world, crossovers and SUVs have grown to become one of the fastestselling vehicle classes on the road today. Versatile, comfortable and even luxurious, crossovers often give their owners a sporty driving experience while still providing plenty of room for groceries. Today, many boatbuilders are creating new designs with the same idea in mind. Although plenty of dedicated models still exist, more and more new creations are filling multiple needs. Of course, some manufacturers are making that jump better than others.

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Based in South Carolina, Scout’s newer models cross the lines that divide many watercraft classes, with the 255 Dorado serving as the perfect example. Although its primary design may focus on fishing, the boat can also handle watersports and family outings with luxurious features and a stylish appearance. The Scout 255 Dorado’s multipurpose crossover feel is exactly what attracted Mark and Margie Vogel to SkipperBud’s in Grand Haven, Michigan, when they decided to buy their first boat in 2015.

Crossing over

Margie and Mark Vogel

When Margie took one of the couple’s four kids to a college visit, Mark attended the Grand Rapids Boat Show, even commenting as she left that he was “off to buy a boat.” The Vogels saw the purchase as more than a new toy. With kids leaving home, they also saw it as a new learning experience they could go through together. Mark’s first choice was a center console. However, along with their four grown children, the Vogels also have three grandkids to think about. “Other boaters pointed out that the center console gave us no shelter,” Mark says. Margie had other reasons to continue their search. “I thought the center console was ugly,” she says. “And there was nowhere for people to sit.” After discussing several options, a dual console configuration began to make sense. So did the Scout brand. The Vogels initially thought a 21-footer would provide everything they were looking for until they factored in Lake Michigan’s legendary mood swings and realized a smaller boat would probably mean less time on the water. The Scout 255 Dorado is loaded with fishing features, such as built-in tackle storage and a livewell. And with its spacious, comfortably cushioned, flip-down benches hiding in the stern and a roomy, enclosed head with a sink, the boat is also ready for a day on the water with family and friends.

Crossing others off the list For Mark, the Scout brand stood out from the rest of the pack for several reasons. “I felt like I was getting above-average

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quality for a reasonable price,” he says. “Especially in this size and class with a head and bow seating.” With its blue-gray hull and tan topside, the Vogel’s 255 Dorado definitely stands out at the dock, while brown vinyl interior adds the perfect accent. Even the hardtop perched on a heavy-duty tube frame blends in and disappears, while real glass windshield panes keep visibility clear and free of distortions. The 255 Dorado erases the line between fishing boat and family cruiser with features like the cushioned bowrider-style bow seating, which creates a comfortable space for sun seekers. A center filler cushion also converts the space into a sunpad, or what Mark Vogel affectionately calls the “mosh pit” when the safely enclosed space is occupied by three grandkids under the age of 5. The helm and passenger seats are wide enough for two and also offer stand-up bolsters with unimpeded visibility. Close the walk-through windshield and companionway door between the bow and helm, and passengers and captain alike can stay warm on chilly days.

Crossing boundaries On the water, the Scout feels more like a sportboat than a fishing vessel. Even with Mark Vogel’s custom, rail-mounted downrigger mounts, rod holders and other fishing gear sitting on the gunnels, the 255 Dorado seems just as ready to tow skiers and tubers. Or to run guests to waterfront dinner destinations. There is storage everywhere, with a huge space below the floor for a collection of rods and reels, or wakeboards and waterskis. A livewell occupies the port side of the transom while built-in tackle storage hides in the starboard side. There is even more storage for dock lines or life jackets, or to store inflatable toys for the kids. The 255 Dorado’s twin 150-hp Mercury engines provide peace of mind to anyone headed offshore in search of fish. The boat responds to the throttle nicely, jumping out of the hole and cruising at 26 mph with ease. Lean on the throttles and the boat responds with a very respectable 52 mph top-end while the 135-gallon fuel tank provides some range.

Speed is only as good as the hull’s ability to handle it, but the Scout 255 Dorado was made to move in any water. The forecast for our test ride said we’d find mirror-like conditions just off Grand Haven, with light winds and clear skies. However, we found the opposite. Leaving Grand Haven behind, Lake Michigan quickly reminded us why Mark chose the bigger vessel. With 20-knot winds and 3-footers brewing, this was the kind of day that kept the charter fleet at the docks. The Scout’s performance must be experienced to be believed. As Mark throttled up, the 255 Dorado’s bow stayed low until we planed off in the rough water. Even at cruising speeds, no spray hit the windshield, and even more incredibly there was no slap as the Scout skipped across the surface. The ride stayed comfortable and dry at all times. For Rick Williams, general manager of SkipperBud’s Grand Haven, the Scout’s design is one of the biggest reasons they sell them. “I can tell you they are the driest ride I have ever experienced,” Williams says, “and the reverse shoebox bonded construction makes it a very rigid boat in rough seas.”

Crossing the finish line After hearing about boat ownership costs for years, the Vogels stepped across the line to take the plunge and found the opposite. While rack storage makes it easy to jump on and go for a ride, the Dorado’s modern construction and materials remove much of the maintenance and upkeep requirements. “When we’re on the water, we feel like we’re on vacation,” Margie says. “Even if it’s just a weeknight.” “The Dorado really does do it all,” Williams says. “One thing I know, the customer’s that own them love them. I’m sure Mark and Margie will attest to that.” For Mark and Margie Vogel, the Scout 255 Dorado is a true crossover, providing fun for their entire family without compromising on its abilities as a fishing boat. The Scout crosses back and forth between sport and cruiser categories with ease. “We wanted a boat that would be all we’d ever need,” Mark says. “I still look around at other brands and sizes, but I don’t see any reason to change. I’m very, very happy with this boat.” H

Scout 255 Dorado SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 25'6" Beam: 8'11" Draft: 19" Weight: 5,258 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 132 gals. Water Capacity: 15 gals. Max Power: 400 hp Base Price: Contact dealer SCOUTBOATS.COM

DEALERS SkipperBud’s Multiple locations SKIPPERBUDS.COM

Payne Marine Point Au Baril, ON PAYNEMARINE .COM

Harbour Place Marine Sales Buffalo, NY HARBOURPLACEMARINE .COM

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FOUR WINNS HD 240 SURF 40

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FOU R WINNS

BOAT TEST


A true crossover for on-the-water fun. BY ALAN WENDT

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Growing up as a kid, winter Saturday afternoons were reserved for the Wide World of Sports. With snow drifting to the roof, we were captive to announcer Jim McKay as he broadcast professional surfing from Makaha Beach in Oahu, Hawaii. Giant waves 25 to 50 feet tall would attract the best surfers in the world and wait for it, that famous line, the eventual agony of defeat. Today, it’s wakesurfing that has captured the imagination of an entirely new generation and Four Winns HD 240 Surf is riding the wave of success with a luxury deckboat that provides hours of family fun from surfing to wakeboarding to just dropping the hook and enjoying the party cove. What makes this boat different is the use of Volvo’s Forward Drive system with a Wake Sports V-8 350-hp. While most surfing occurs at just a scant 8 to 11 mph, this boat is a true crossover hitting a top-speed in excess of 47 mph. For those who prefer skis and need that hole shot to get out of the water, we hit 25 mph in under 8 seconds. Amazingly, the best fuel economy is around 28 mph or roughly 9 miles to the gallon.

Stable control

When any boat converts to forward drives or pod drives on larger cruisers it requires a retooling of the hull. Four Winns mastered a design coined the Stable-Vee running surface in 1993. It’s a hull that works, is simple and effective, and contributes to smooth running and smart handling. Together Volvo and Four Winns engineers found ways to place the engine and drive in a manner that did not mess with the Stable-Vee concept. Probably the biggest modification comes with the addition of a centrally located ballast tank that is a quick fill/discharge used to create a deeper wave. Some trick riders have discovered that by altering the pitch a degree or two on the drive, they can control the ratio aspects of the wave — sort of like fine-tuning — to their individual preference. Four Winns’ HD 240 Surf model stays faithful to the quality comforts found in Four Winns. Backrests and seat cushions throughout the boat are robust and supportive, an attribute most noticeable on those days when the lake gets choppy from traffic or that surprise afternoon storm. In the squared-off bow there is deep combing with drink holders recessed inside and extra places to charge a smartphone. Forward along the leading edge of the bow is a recessed telescoping swim ladder and anchor storage. An optional sunpad filler turns the bow into a sun lounge — a place for the kids to call their own or for teens to feel just far enough away from Mom and Dad, yet well within eyesight. Underneath the forwardmost seat is a lift-up hatch revealing a cooler. I’d highly recommend adding the pedestal round table that adds functionality and entertaining space.

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FOUR WINNS HD 240 SURF SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 24'4" Beam: 8'5" Draft: 35"/30" Weight: 4,860 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 55 gals. Water Capacity: 12 gals. Power: Volvo V8-300C/DI/FWD 300 hp Base Price: MSRP $104,415

At the helm and port side, dual captain’s chairs are wide, plush and swivel fully into the cockpit. Both feature flip-up thigh bolsters to provide leg room or an enhanced sightline view. Our test boat featured two-tone white and lunar colored vinyl with strong stitching. These seats are going to hold up season after season. The cockpit seating is aesthetically pleasing; instead of straight angles and rectangular cuts for each piece in a typical bench seat configuration, Four Winns added curved, scalloped shapes. And when combined with the color-coordinated vinyl and optional ash grey reed mat cockpit flooring, the sense of luxury pops. Of particular interest is access to the two-step swim platform. Four Winns created a transom pass-through that is roughly as wide as a single seat. When in motion, simply lift up one of the aft seat cushions and flip over a jump seat to complete a unified cockpit seating arrangement from port to starboard. For boarding and, of course, the main event, watersports, the jump seat stores neatly out of the way.

FOURWINNS.COM

DEALERS Hall’s Sport Center HALLSSPORTCENTER.COM

231-733-2433 SkipperBud’s SKIPPERBUDS.COM

800-636-2628

No compromises

Unlike some boats where space is an issue and the backrest pulls double-duty facing forward or aft, there is no compromise with the HD 240 Surf. A rear-facing transom seat is always upright, offering a tremendous lounging area in the party cove or sitting at the dock. The extended swim platform gets riders right down to the water level, ideal for tubing, getting skis on or simply mounting a board. Our test boat was equipped with a Zero Off GPS speed control, ideal for multiple riders of various skill levels, a Simrad touch-screen multifunction display, lighted switches, a handsome three-spoke steering wheel and JL Audio Media Master with support for Sirius XM. The satellite radio feature is becoming a popular item for those who want some variety in music tastes and want to bring the luxury from their car to the boat. The Surf model also sports a powered wakeboard arch that lowers for storage and fitting into the garage. The total height on the trailer with the wakeboard tower down is 9 feet, 6 inches. You can also add optional board racks and tower speakers. There’s no shortage for storage in this model. Under most seats, in the cockpit sole and in the aft bench (where you’ll find room for a carry-on cooler) is all the finished dry compartment space you need to keep the floor clutter-free. Tucked inside the port console is a head compartment with porta-potti. When you want all the benefits of a tow boat without limitations for cruising and family dayboating, Four Winns HD 240 Surf offers a great option from a company with a long tradition for value and fun. H LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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Queen of e Lake As Ditchburn Boat’s final work of boatbuilding mastery, Grace

A e II continues to ply the

waters of Lake of the Woods. STORY & PHOTOS BY BRUCE KEMP

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B

oats like the Grace Anne II have long and storied lives. The largest and final yacht produced by the legendary Canadian boatbuilder Ditchburn Boats is the hardworking queen of Lake of the Woods, a considerable surprise to boaters not expecting an encounter with a luxury yacht of this magnitude in such a remote corner of North America. Commissioned nearly 90 years ago in 1930, the 85-foot Grace Anne II was delivered to Lake of the Woods in a historic adventure involving railways, disassembly and a nail-biting narrow bridge encounter. The only time she has been off the lake was on that maiden sea and rail voyage from Orillia to Rainy River and has only been out of service when WWII gas rations slowed down operations. She still graces these waters today, transporting those aboard back in time while experiencing the masterful construction of the now-defunct yet beloved Ditchburn Boats.

Seasoned hostess

Cruising life aboard Grace Anne II is akin to being wrapped up in a northern style “1001 Arabian Nights.” The luxury and service aboard is as incredible as the scenery.

Gourmet meals are served in the sumptuous salon that comes complete with comfortable seating and bar service, decorated with cut-glass, mullion-windowed bookcases, mahogany decking covered with fine Persian carpets and a wine cellar to match. The 85-foot Ditchburn beauty has a 17-foot beam and sports three decks. The main deck is home to the mahogany wheelhouse, sparkling salon and aft owner’s cabin. On the top deck there is an open-air, full-service lounge with guest seating. The main accommodations are below decks and reached by a curved oak companionway from the wheelhouse. The company that manages the yacht, Salisbury Cruises Ltd/Chia Group, offers its ship to give charter guests the option to relax in a deck chair enjoying the scenery or to get out in one of the smaller tenders to fish for bass, walleye, pike, lake trout or the king of all freshwater fish — the muskie. Her mahogany and fir-planked hull is still in remarkable shape after decades of continued use. She’s been hauled a number of times but has always spent her winters in the water. The engine room contains the Detroit Diesel 242 that was dropped in during a refit in 1981. Boaters and classic craft fanciers can charter LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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Chef Nicky Dartiailhn

Stay at the Lodge

The company that owns the Grace Anne II yacht also offers a resort destination in Kenora, Ontario, called Grace Anne II Lodge. The all-inclusive wilderness retreat is situated on 40 acres on a seven-mile-long island in Lake of the Woods. Features of the Grace Anne II Lodge include: Accommodations for 20 guests; more than 6,000 square feet of living and meeting space; gourmet meals prepared by an executive chef; a cedar hot tub and shower on the main deck overlooking the lake; a 1,200-bottle wine cellar; cigar humidor; and use of the Grace Anne II yacht. Book your stay at GRACEANNE .COM/ LODGE .

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Grace Anne II for family and company activities around Lake of the Woods, a lake that boasts the longest shoreline in North America and is sometimes considered the sixth Great Lake. The yacht sleeps eight in luxury cabins, each outfitted for maximum comfort with stewards at your beck and call and a Bordeaux-trained French chef in the galley. Grace Anne II is a seasoned hostess for Fortune 500 corporate excursions and celebrities. For individuals who want to find some peace and quiet aboard the yacht, host a wedding or escape on a honeymoon, chartering is very pricey (starting at $11,121 per night) but is still an option.

The Forlong years

Over the years, Grace Anne II was owned by a number of businessmen and corporations, but she began life as the private yacht of Winnipeg department store magnate, John Forlong. The Forlong family connection to Lake of the Woods goes back to 1893. But in 1913, fates that would dictate the next 100 years took a hand. John won a 52-foot power cruiser in a poker game one night and it became the original Grace Anne, named for John Forlong’s wife. Every summer, the family vacationed and entertained friends and business acquaintances on the boat. In 1930, Forlong commissioned a second Grace Anne from Ditchburn Boats in Gravenhurst. Grace Anne II was built in LAKELANDBOATING.COM

Salon

Orillia where the company built its larger, 50-foot-plus boats and was stern-launched directly into the Trent-Severn Waterway. It took four and a half months to finish the boat. The only other boat being built by Ditchburn at the time was a 117-foot patrol boat for the Canadian government. This wasn’t enough to sustain the company during the Depression and it went bankrupt in 1932.

Maiden voyage

Delivering the boat from Orillia to Lake of the Woods took six weeks, and she made it as far west as Port Arthur (now Thunder Bay) as she could on her own bottom. The second part of the journey from Port Arthur to Rainy River on Lake of the Woods was made by rail and was an engineering and planning marvel. The Canadian National Railway (CNR) was responsible for the rail portion of the journey. The Port Arthur Shipbuilding Company removed the deckhouse, stripped all other deck structures, pulled the engine and other heavy machinery out then loaded the hull onto a custom-engineered cradle bolted onto a railroad flatcar. Because of its oversized 17-foot beam, the boat was supported on its side. In total, it took four railway cars to complete the move. With the standard railway car measuring only 61 feet and the Grace Anne II’s hull measuring 85 feet, some serious number crunching was done by the CNR’s engineers.


Top deck lounge

The rock cuts, bridges, water tanks and tunnels on this portion of the railway line were measured to ensure enough clearance. They even worked through the numbers to check that the superelevation (high side) of curves wasn’t so great that the load would spill the boat off the car. Finally, to test everything, they built a scale model to make sure the hull would fit through all the obstacles. Calculations were so exact that at CNR Bridge #681 near Fort Frances, Grace Anne II’s hull cleared the overhead ironwork by a scant 2 inches. Planning for all this took months, and the complete trip covered 1,285 miles. The total cost of Grace Anne II in depression era dollars was $54,750 (USD) and the fixtures came to another $8,760. In today’s money, it rounds out to more than $886,968.75, and George Ditchburn estimated Forlong spent another $12,000 furnishing the yacht. During the Forlong era of ownership, the local Kenora Miner and News newspaper reported on the boat’s activities like a princess in her coming out season.

Dear to their hearts

Then began a series of ownerships that almost spelled the demise of the proud vessel, and it wasn’t until 3M Corporation took her over in the early 1980s that any serious rehab efforts took place. Kim Beach and Bob Blanchard, 3M employees, took over maintenance and operations. Beach

Captain Pat Howard

had a long-standing family connection with the boat. His dad worked for the ship as a fishing and hunting guide. The younger Beach was employed during his high school and college years as a cook and general dogsbody. Blanchard came to the boat after being hired away from Northwest Airlines as its maintenance superintendent. Until Beach and Blanchard’s arrival, little had been done in the way of serious maintenance. It was mostly cosmetic with the refreshing of brightwork and the occasional painting. In the 3M years, a maintenance schedule was implemented and a marine railway was built to haul the ship, which was loaned to the Canadian Coast Guard and eventually sold to them for a dollar. Folks who work on the Grace Anne II hold it dear to their hearts. The current captain, Pat Howard, has been with her since high school and loved it so much he received a Limited Masters 150-ton license for inland waters in order to become her skipper. Howard’s partner in crime is French chef Nicky Dartiailh, who hails from a small town outside of Bordeaux, France. Dartiailh met his Canadian wife in South Africa and she brought him home to Kenora, Ontario. Dartiailh took the job of ship’s cook but found that a three-month season wasn’t enough to support his family, so he volunteered to undertake many of the off-season maintenance jobs along with Howard. Now the pair are so intimately involved in the life of the ship, it’s doubtful they will ever leave. ★ LAKELANDBOATING.COM

Book a charter Grace Anne II 800-987-3857

GRACEANNE .COM INFO@GRACEANNE.COM

*As Lake of the Woods is an international waterway, you’ll need your passport.

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A view of Chicago’s skyline from Morgan Shoal.

Morgan

PHOTOS BY PHIL W ILLINK UNLESS OTH ERWISE NOTED

Silver Spray’s prop

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Shoal

An ancient reef in Chicago’s backyard.

by Sarah Kollmorgen La

Morgan Shoal

ke e or

Sh ive

47th

Dr

M

illions of years ago, a coral reef formed in shallow, tropical waters just south of the equator. It was home to various corals, algae and sponges, and its size would rival the Great Barrier Reef. About 425 million years and a few shifting tectonic plates later, the remains of this reef system can still be found today in a large semi-circle around Michigan’s lower peninsula extending into upstate New York. To explore these ancient reef remains, you just need to take a trip to Chicago. Morgan Shoal is part of this ancient reef structure, and it sits right off the city’s lakefront. It’s so close that if the water level is low enough, you can catch a glimpse of the remains of a nearby shipwreck protruding from the water, sitting atop the shoal. Morgan Shoal is a great opportunity for boaters to explore a fairly unknown feature in Chicago. With harbors nearby and the lakefront within swimming distance, Morgan Shoal is an excellent spot to break out the snorkeling gear and spend a few hours dreaming about prehistoric life.

GRAPH IC BY SAMANTHA HERTEL

The work of several millennia

Morgan Shoal is one of the closest rock outcrops to the shore of Chicago. It can be found east of Chicago’s Kenwood neighborhood, about 275 feet off the coast and just a short jaunt down Lakeshore Drive from the city center. Although largely covered by water, Morgan Shoal is huge, covering about 32 acres. Morgan Shoal first formed about 425 million years ago in tropical seas. Over the next few millennia, the earth’s crust would shift and move, with the reef becoming exposed and buried by water and sediment

3D rendering of Morgan Shoal. Each color represents a 1- to 3-foot change in topography.

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Silver Spray’s boiler rivets.

Ethan Kessler (left) and Jeremy Tiemann (right) from the Illinois Natural History Survey/University of Illinois survey Morgan Shoal.

several times. Eventually, the reef transformed into Niagaran dolomite, a type of limestone that contains magnesium and forms part of the bedrock on which Chicago’s skyscrapers sit today. (Fun fact: Niagaran dolomite can also be found at Niagara Falls.) Only about 100 years ago, Chicagoans began armoring the shoreline, using timber, concrete and rubble to prevent erosion. This would halt a lot of activity in the area, keeping Morgan Shoal uncovered as it is today.

An unexpected ecosystem

Today, Morgan Shoal is again teeming with aquatic life. In 2015, scientist Philip Willink, Ph.D, began a survey of Morgan Shoal on behalf of Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources also sponsored the program. The study’s goal was to document the shoal and life around it to inform the creation of future parks, nature reserves and development along the nearby lakefront. “There is a lot going on beneath the waves of Lake

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Michigan,” Willink says. “Morgan Shoal is one of the places where you can actually see and experience this.” Willink describes the shoal as “more than just a rock in a lake.” In fact, it’s marked by nooks, crannies, rocks, rubble, smooth areas and surfaces that jut both vertically and horizontally. Willink and his team found that this diverse formation is today home to just under 20 different species of fish. Some fish the team found were expected, such as lake trout and salmon; however, the team also found a few surprising species, such as an abundance of longnose sucker, a threatened species in Illinois, and a freshwater sponge. The survey of Morgan Shoal also found yellow perch, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, brown trout, rainbow trout and Chinook salmon. “You have some small spaces, big spaces in different positions, gravel and sand,” Willink says. “You get a variety of habitats, which seems to facilitate getting a variety of species.” However, the most predominant species that Willink and his team found at Morgan Shoal were quagga mussels and round gobies. Although both are considered invasive species, the study reports that their impact is complex. Their presence may have fostered the diversity of some species at the shoal, just as they may have eradicated others. In other words, they are now inextricably part of the food web at the shoal. Another interesting phenomenon that the team observed is simply the fact that the shoal is not covered in sand. Most of the bottom of Lake Michigan is composed of sand or mud. Instead of covering the shoal, sand moves around it. Willink says that if researchers could better understand why this happens, it could help them create better artificial reefs and structures for fish. The official survey of Morgan Shoal ended in April 2016, but Willink and his team conducted additional biological surveys after the final report was written and have since documented a few more species of fish. While studying Morgan Shoal, the research team used direct observations from divers, scan sonar and other tactics.


Silver Spray’s boiler is covered in quagga mussels.

Harbors Near Morgan Shoal Chicago has more than 10 harbors, each with its own character and history. Boaters can check out the following harbors, which are only a short distance away from Morgan Shoal. To learn more about Chicago Harbors, visit CHICAGOHARBORS.INFO.

■ BURNHAM HARBOR Chicago’s largest harbor, located right near Museum Campus and downtown. 1559 S. Lake Shore Drive 312-747-7009 ■ 31ST STREET HARBOR Chicago’s newest harbor, with slips for 1,000 boats and a modern design. 3155 S. Lake Shore Drive 312-225-6464

In the years following the survey, Willink says the team experimented with creating some computer 3D visualizations of the shoal, as well as virtual reality filming. In collaboration with the Shedd Aquarium’s Learning Department, the team also took students out to the shoal to practice operating an ROV (remotely operated vehicle).

■ 59TH STREET HARBOR A smaller harbor located near the Museum of Science and Industry and 63rd Street beach. 5900 S. Lake Shore Drive 312-609-9002

Freshwater drum.

An unexpected spot for exploration

At any point in time, Morgan Shoal is only 4 to 20 feet underwater, depending on the water level. This makes it incredibly easy to explore by kayak or other small vehicle. However, Willink and the Chicago Park District both advise boaters to exercise caution when boating near the shoal — a run-in wouldn’t be the first time (or the last) that boaters got too close. In fact, one of the most famous features of Morgan Shoal is the Silver Spray shipwreck that rests nearby. On July 15, 1914, the wooden passenger steamer set sail for the University of Chicago, where it was scheduled to pick up 200 students for a tour of the Gary, Indiana, steel mills. Unfortunately the steamer ran aground on Morgan Shoal on the way there. Newspaper accounts from the time say that Silver Spray’s crew initially refused rescue from the Jackson Park life-saving station. However as night set in and the boat showed no signs of budging, the crew eventually gave in and rowed to shore on a lifeboat. Although there were many attempts to haul the boat off the shoal, none of them worked. After about two or three days, the boat began to list, prompting the crew to remove about 20 tons of coal. This was the final straw. Silver Spray broke apart and its iron boiler either floated or fell out. Today, the remains of Silver Spray are still visible. In fact, the ship’s boiler can even be seen from Lakeshore Drive when the water level is low. Silver Spray is only about 550 feet from shore, representing an easy swim and a fun area ripe for exploration by adventurous boaters.

Morgan Shoal Framework Plan

Morgan Shoal flies under the radar today, but how long this formation remains a hidden gem depends on the city. In 2015, the Chicago Park District published the Morgan Shoal Framework Plan, a proposed project that would spruce up the area as part of Chicago’s larger effort to transform the lakefront. After several years of working with the community, the Morgan Shoal Framework Plan proposed creating several destination points along the parkland near the shoal. These include a pebble beach, picnic areas, an overlook, additional parkland and paths, a concession stand area and more. Michele Lemons, director of communications for the Chicago Park District, says they hope the area can become a destination for underwater exploration activities, such as scuba diving and snorkeling. However, as has been the nature of Morgan Shoal so far, change is slow. The Morgan Shoal Framework Plan is currently on hold until it can find the necessary funds. For those that don’t need a manicured park, however, Morgan Shoal is sitting right off Chicago’s coast, ready to be explored — just as it has for the past few hundred years. ★

Smallmouth bass.

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P HOTO BY GA R R E T T VOI GHT

Split Rock Lighthouse

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P HOTO BY GR E G GJE R DI N GE N

SILVER BAY

Duluth Superior

Ashland

On the desolate northern shore of Lake Superior, Silver Bay, Minnesota, welcomes the outdoor explorer with epic activities and amenities in this naturalist’s dreamscape.

BY FELICIA SCHNEIDERHAN

Adventure LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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Silver Bay Marina

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ARCH PHOTO BY BEARDIEBLOKE2; SILVER BAY MARINA PHOTO BY JENNI KONRAD

Tettegouche State Park


HESPER PHOTO CO URTE SY OF LOOKUN DE RWATE R.COM ; FI S HI N G P HOTO A N D M A R I N A P HOTO COURTE SY OF S I LVE R BAY M A RI N A ; M I N I N G P HOTO BY TON Y WE B ST E R

Hesper shipwreck

Lake Superior Salmon Classic

Silver Bay Marina

A

long the rugged, desolate northern shoreline of Lake Superior, Silver Bay opens its burly arms to wilderness boaters. This historic Minnesota town offers easy access to the upper Midwest’s most breathtaking state parks and public lands, excellent fishing and wildlife viewing, up-close tours of icons like Split Rock Lighthouse, and new attractions like paved biking trails and an outdoor adventure park. A naturalist’s dreamscape, Silver Bay is an ideal jumping off point for outdoor enthusiasts who come by water. When seen from a boat, the incredible geologic shoreline around Silver Bay takes precedence. Lake Superior’s North Shore is a mosaic of rock cliffs, promontories and pebble beaches created by the last glacier melting into the big lake. The bedrock coastline, formed from deep basalt lava that erupted more than a billion years ago, is continually sculpted by water, wind and weather.

A new era

The Cree, Dakotah and Ojibwe native people have all lived along the North Shore. More recently, Silver Bay has been tied to the processing and shipping of taconite (low-grade iron ore) that arrived by train from Minnesota’s Iron Range. Officially founded in 1954, Silver Bay began as a town to house the thousands of workers who came to work at the local taconite processing plant. The taconite was refined and baked, creating easily transported taconite pellets. As

taconite production expanded in the 1960s, so did the town. During this time, Silver Bay became more widely known when it was revealed that the Reserve Corporation was pouring taconite tailings into the lake. In 1972, the company was ordered to stop production and charged with violating the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, which prohibits dumping harmful material into interstate waters. The five-year trial ended in 1977, and the Reserve provided $370 million to reduce its air and water pollution. Today, the city is establishing a new reputation for its environmental stewardship. The Minnesota DNR and the U.S. Corps of Engineers completed construction of the Silver Bay Marina and harbor of refuge (the first refuge on Lake Superior’s North Shore) 20 years ago, and in 2016 it was designated a Minnesota Clean Marina. The marina is owned by the Minnesota DNR and managed by the city. No matter the size of your vessel, you’ll have no trouble in this expansive marina of 110 slips, which accommodates boats up to 100 feet and offers depths at least 8 feet. In addition to a yacht club and playground, the marina offers an oasis of amenities, including freshwater, electricity, sewer pump-out, gas and diesel, and full private restrooms with showers and laundry. A reef at the southwest edge of the marina marks the resting place of the Hesper, a wooden-hulled steamship that sank in 1905. Built in the early 1890s, the double-decker bulk freighter measured 250 feet long and could carry 2,700 tons. In a late LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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PALISADE HEAD PH OTO COU RTESY OF EXPLORE MINNESOTA; BEAR AND MOOSE PHOTOS COURTESY OF MINNESOTA D NR

Palisade Head


PHOTO COURTESY OF EXPLORE M I N N E S OTA BY L I SA M CC L I N TOC K RIVER PHOTO COURTESY OF EXPLORE MINNESOTA; SHOVEL POINT PHOTO BY NATURE NERD

Black Beach Baptism River High Falls

spring snowstorm, a 60 mph nor’easter pushed it off course and onto the reef. It was then lifted over the reef by an enormous wave, endured a heck of a beating, broke apart and sank. The captain and 15-person crew remained onboard until the very end, launching two lifeboats minutes before the ship was destroyed. The Hesper lies in about 40 feet of water, popular among divers, and its artifacts are displayed in the lobby of the marina building.

Mother nature

Taconite still influences the shoreline, as evidenced by Silver Bay’s mythical Black Beach. The soft, black sand at this secluded beach was created by the taconite pilings. Popular among locals, it can be an ideal swimming spot — if you can stand the frigid water! A steep rock structure at the southern end of the beach is known for its stunning views, though climbing up and down can be a little tricky. Visitors were not allowed on the beach until 2015 when the city and state began leasing the land and opened it to the public. Fishing enthusiasts will happily note a number of charter boats depart from the marina for half- and full-day fishing excursions, in search of big lake salmon and trout. The annual Lake Superior Salmon Classic fishing tournament is held every July. Inland, you’ll find all kinds of wildlife to watch, from white-tailed deer, beaver and snowshoe hare to river otter, moose and black bear. Fishers and pine marten lurk beneath northern flying squirrels. You might hear timber wolves at night, and if you’re in the right place at the right time, you could even catch a glimpse of one of these majestic creatures. This area of Minnesota offers some of the best rare bird watching territories in the country. The diverse habitat, geography and access to the big lake produce ideal conditions

for the 140 identified species of birds. Birders can spot kinglets, spruce grouse and northern warblers in the summer, as well as the magnificent hawk migration in September and October. Less than a 10-minute drive up the shore, Tettegouche State Park presents more noteworthy wildlife and bird watching. The largest Minnesota state park, Tettegouche protects 10,000 acres of mountain-like terrain, inland lakes, rivers, waterfalls, a mile of Lake Superior shoreline and a pristine northern hardwood forest. The park is heaven for hiking enthusiasts, with miles of trails that lead to waterfalls, cascades, high peaks overlooking the Sawtooth Mountains and shoreline cliffs surveying the big lake. Baptism River trails wind among waterfalls and cascades, leading to the 60-foot High Falls. Lakeside cliff trails to the end of Shovel Point provide spectacular views of the lake. It’s also an ideal place for experienced rock climbers who want a breathtaking chance to climb over the lake. A drive to the top of Palisade Head gives spectators a jaw-dropping view of the lake. Some of the most dramatic illustrations of the ancient lava flows are found at Shovel Point and Palisade Head, where you’ll find a lighter volcanic rock called rhyolite, contrasting the dark basalt of most of the shoreline.

Shovel Point

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North Shore Scenic Drive Minnesota’s Highway 61, also known as North Shore Scenic Drive, is a picturesque 150-mile roadway from Duluth to Grand Portage that winds alongside Lake Superior and is a destination unto itself. Here are a few must-visit stops along the way. • Breweries in Duluth, including Fitger’s Brewhouse, Bent Paddle Brewing Co. and Canal Park Brewing Company. • Eight state parks, including Gooseberry Falls State Park, George Crosby Manitou State Park and Cascade River State Park. • Two Harbors Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse in the state. • Entry to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Grand Marais. • Grand Portage National Monument, a living history center where you can learn about the area’s Ojibwe Indians. For more information, visit Superior Scenic Byways (SUPERIORBYWAYS. COM), and view an interactive map at North Shore Visitor’s website (NORTHSHOREVISITOR.COM).

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Superior National Forest

Grand Portage SP Judge C.R. Grand Magney SP

Portage Hovland Temperance River SP Grand Marais Lutsen George H. Crosby Tofte Manitou SP Schroeder Lake Little Marais Tettegouche SP Superior Silver Bay Beaver Bay Cascade River SP

Split Rock Lighthouse SP Gooseberry Falls SP

Two Harbors Duluth

PHOTO BY JESSE THORSTAD

Get active

From Gooseberry, biking enthusiasts can pedal back to Silver Bay via the newly-built 17-mile segment of the paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail. The entire trail, when completed, will extend along Lake Superior’s North Shore all the way from Two Harbors to Grand Marais. This paved, non-motorized trail is open to the public and is helping spread the word about the first-class bicycling opportunities in this area, including wide shoulders on Highway 61 and the paved back-country roads. Touring cyclists will note that the Minnesota Department of Transportation recently established the state’s second United State Bicycle Route; the “North Star Route” follows trails and roads from the state capital all the way through Silver Bay and up to the Canadian border. The area is also gaining notoriety among gravel cyclists, due in large part to the grassroots race series “Heck of the North.” This autumn race series follows routes of 20, 55 or 100 miles of gravel cycling. It has inspired “Le Grand du Nord,” a gravel cycling classic of 20-, 54- or 110-mile routes in May, and the “Heck Epic,” which takes gravel cyclists on a strenuous two-day, 225-mile route in July. With the wealth of wilderness in this area, it’s no surprise that one of the leading environmental learning centers in the nation — Wolf Ridge — is located about a half-hour

PH OTO COU RTESY OF EXPLORE MINNESOTA

Gooseberry River

Heading back down Highway 61 (see sidebar), one of Lake Superior’s icons, Split Rock Lighthouse, is located about a 10-minute drive south of Silver Bay. The lighthouse was built after a 1905 November gale wrecked almost 30 ships. It became an instant celebrity as one of the state’s most-loved destinations — often photographed from a roadside stop just to the south. The comprehensive Visitor Center is full of historical and cultural education. You can tour the lighthouse, the keeper’s house, the oil house, the fog signal building, and mingle with the staff dressed in period costume who perform tasks of the early 20th century. A little farther south along the shore, you’ll come to another brilliant example of Minnesota public land: Gooseberry Falls State Park. Revered for its waterfalls, river gorges and wildlife, this natural paradise also offers up-close views of dramatic geological history, with ancient lava flows of dark basalt. Rock hunters might get lucky finding agates, as these basalt lava flows created the semi-precious stones. The Gooseberry River appeared on European explorers’ maps as early as 1670. Two hundred years later, the area supported sport and commercial fishermen, and in the 1890s, logging became a primary industry. Tourism rose in the 1920s, and when people worried that the area would only be accessible to the wealthy, the state legislature protected the area as public land. Arriving in 1934, the Civilian Conservation Corps worked to cultivate the park, staying in camps until 1941. They built stone and log buildings, the 300-foot-long castle-like retaining wall, and designed the campground, picnic areas and extensive trail system. Their historic and cultural influence remains strong in the park today.


HIKING TRAIL PHOTO BY KEITH EWING; RESORT PHOTO COURTESY OF LUSTEN RESORT FACEBOOK; PARK PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTH SHORE ADVENTURE PA RK FAC E BOOK

drive from Silver Bay. The Center provides one of the top graduate-level naturalist training programs in the world. They also offer camps and wilderness programs for younger students and serve more than 15,000 school-age children, teachers and chaperones during the academic year. Wolf Ridge summer camps, family programs and wilderness trips attract thousands more for the extensive outdoor experiences. Drop-in visitors are welcome, too. Stop by the front office to learn about events, trails, organic farm and other programs. If you’re up for more hiking, the Superior Hiking Trail winds its way for more than 300 miles along the North Shore. Silver Bay provides access points to the trail, which is maintained by more than 5,000 volunteers. Day hikers and backpackers hike sections of the trail — or all of the trail over time — through the Superior National Forest, along the shoreline, over the Sawtooth Mountains, through city parks and towns (and sometimes folks’ backyards). It can feel like a pilgrimage to set foot on this epic trail.

Adventure

When you’re ready to give your knees a rest, a 40-minute drive up the shore to the renowned Lutsen Resort will give you the views without all the effort. Known primarily as an outstanding winter ski resort, Lutsen’s warm weather activities are not to be missed. The Summit Express Gondola gives an aerial view of the big lake and the Sawtooth Mountains (and maybe even a moose or a timber wolf), as it ascends to the top of Moose Mountain, 1,000 feet above Lake Superior. At the summit chalet, you can lounge and enjoy a picnic, find another hiking trail (of course), or eat lunch at the Summit Chalet restaurant. If you’re up for a different kind of adventure, you can try the Alpine Slide; a chair lift takes you to the Eagle Mountain summit, and from there you ride your own sled at your own pace for a half-mile twisting route to the bottom. If staying on the level is more your speed, the Voyageur Canoe Tour lets you paddle your way to the Poplar River headwaters in a 10-person Voyageur canoe as the early fur traders did. If non-motorized boats call to you, you’ll definitely want to head back to Silver Bay to explore the Lake Superior Water Trail, popular with canoeists and kayakers, offering a whole other view of the towering, rocky shoreline. Finally, in a landscape that celebrates wilderness in so many ways, one of the newest attractions is the Adventure Park of the North Shore, which opened in May this year. Designed by Swiss alpine mountaineers, these eco-friendly courses honor our natural world while giving you the thrill of swinging, climbing and jumping between platforms high in the trees (in a harness, of course). At night, climbers traverse the ropes by moonlight and stringed lights. The park offers courses for all skill levels, which means if you’re bursting to get out of your comfort zone, this is the place to try it. At the end of the day, return to the peace and solitude of the Silver Bay Marina for a good night’s sleep — you’ll need it for the next day of wilderness adventure. ★

Superior Hiking Trail

Resources City of Silver Bay 218-226-4408 SILVERBAY.COM

Explore Minnesota Tourism EXPLOREMINNESOTA .COM

Silver Bay Marina 218-226-3121 SILVERBAY-MARINA .COM

Lutsen Resort

North Shore Adventure Park

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LAKESHORE LIFE BY KAT E B U SH

MORE INFORMATION

High-end, easy-living home on Lake Charlevoix’s sunset coast.

Address 03470 Boyne City Rd. Boyne City, MI 49712 Specs Bedrooms: 5 Baths: 4 full, 1 half Square Footage: 5,509 Acreage: 3 Shoreline: 140 feet Price: $2,380,000 Contact Pat O’Brien Pat O’Brien & Associates 231-675-6677 PATOBRIEN.COM

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Boyne City, MI

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ike a stately yacht, this five-bedroom home settled on Lake Charlevoix’s sunset coast boasts a bow-like lakeside patio, a flybridge-style viewing room on the upper level and warm wood accents throughout. Unlike a ship, however, this home is low maintenance. “It’s all about the view, it really is,” says realtor Pat O’Brien. “It’s just like ‘wow’ times two, and the location is so nice because it’s a two-mile drive to downtown Boyne City.” Straying from a cookie-cutter floorplan, this home is wider than it is deep, which means it can take full advantage of the water views. Walk into the foyer and you’re instantly greeted by lake views thanks to two large, sliding doors that open to the patio. The length of the main floor is dedicated to congregating spaces, from the cozy dining room and light-filled living room to the gourmet kitchen anchored by an enormous island. The main-floor master features spectacular Lake Charlevoix views and an ensuite complete with a walk-in, subway tile shower and a clawfoot soaking tub. Upstairs, the lofted sitting area is a spectacle unto itself,

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

with cathedral ceilings, skylights, stately beams and geometric woodwork. Windows here overlook Lake Charlevoix, offering some of the best views in the entire home. Three guest rooms are found on this level, one with a private walkout patio. Head to the lower level where the fun happens. Play a game of pool, pour yourself a cold one in the kitchenette, detox in the sauna, or work up a sweat in the home gym. A few steps from the main home is where guests can find a private retreat in the carriage house. Located above the two-stall garage, this space features a kitchenette, bedroom and bathroom, and can easily double as a quiet home office. The yacht-like home complements its marine environment, offering 140 feet of private lake frontage. All you need are some sunglasses, a lounge chair and a good book and you have yourself the perfect summer day. But best of all, homeowners are able to spend their time here relaxing, not worrying about home maintenance. It’s easy living. “There’s a lot of privacy here and well-done landscaping,” O’Brien says. “It’s not anything you’re going to have to spend the whole weekend keeping up.” H



Lakeshore Life

LAKE CHARLEVOIX PRIVATE HARBORAGE 5600-SQUARE-FOOT CUSTOM LOG HOME

200 feet of gorgeous shoreline with a permanent dock to accommodate any size yacht. $3,800,000

Jeff Wellman CRB, GRI, CLHMS, RSPS Broker/Owner

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

104 S. Lake Street, Boyne City, MI 231.675.9892 northharborrealestate.com jeff@northharborrealestate.com

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Northport Boat Yard

A KAM Marine affiliate located in Northern Lake Michigan in Northport, Michigan

Inside Heated & Cold Storage Outside Mast-Up Storage Hull Painting and Varnishing Fiberglass and Gel Coat Repair Engine Re-Powering Open Year Round

• MerCruiser, Yanmar & Volvo Penta Dealers • Authorized Gas & Diesel Sales and Services • NEW this year: Brokerage Services

HP RT O

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BOAT YARD KAM Marine Affiliate

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BOAT YARD KAM Marine Affiliate




Experience the Marlow difference… 2018 Marlow Prowler Havana “Vixen” is powered by triple 300hp Yamaha outboards, she is well-equipped with an Onan generator, SeaKeeper gyro stabilizer, and Garmin electronics package. Her superb ride quality, and elegant lines make her a standout anywhere.

2015 Marlow Explorer 58E-CB “Bet-A-Buc”is an exceptional yacht featuring a full beam, center line master stateroom with his and her heads, a queen VIP, and enclosed helm with a day head and a crew cabin. Powered by CAT C-18’s she cruises at 20-23 knots. Call today.

2004 Marlow Explorer 70E

2003 Marlow Explorer 57C

“Sand Piper” is a well maintained yacht. She has three spacious staterooms and features a private entrance from the salon to the master stateroom. Powered by CAT 800hp 3406E’s you can fulfill your cruising dreams.

“Bayflower” is perfect for the couple that wants to run their own boat. This three stateroom yacht offers exquisite craftmanship and design. Powered by twin 800hp CAT 3406’s and ready to whisk you away.

2001 53 Selene

2003 Symbol Motoryacht 56’

2017 Yellowfin 42

A classic trawler. Her two stateroom layout, flybridge, and warm salon/galley area provide all the comforts of home. She is well equipped powered by twin 225hp John Deere engines and ready to cruise.

“Time” is a beautiful three stateroom Raised Pilothouse Motoryacht that has received numerous upgrades throughout. She is powered by the popular 700hp CAT C-12’s and ready to cruise. Please call for more details.

“Night Moves 2” was the fishing boat that accompanied a larger yacht She has the best options available including a painted hull, tower with controls, bow thruster, GOST tracking system, and a state of the art electronics package.

2015 Marlow Pilot 32

2013 Boston Whaler 285 Conquest

2005 Cruisers 400 Express

“Reely Ours” is an enclosed pilothouse and powered by an economical single 260hp Yanmar® diesel. Ready to cruise. Visit today.

This well-equipped 285 Conquest powered by twin 250hp Mercury engines is in pristine condition and offers plenty of features for fishing trips and day trips as well as ample space for overnights!

“Paradocs” is a very popular Cruisers model that has been very well equipped and maintained. Powered by twin 370hp Volvo® engines with IPS drives she is fuel efficient and very easy to maneuver with a joystick.

2015 Marlow Explorer 49E “Love Shack” is a pampered yacht, with extensive mechanical upgrades such as, twin CAT 715hp engines, stabilizers, watermaker, chilled-water air-conditioner and 1,000 gallon fuel tank making her a cruiser extraordinaire. Sistership Photo


personall y. 2013 Marlow Explorer 97E

This exceptional Explorer has been captain maintained for a seasoned and experienced yachtsman. She is powered by twin Caterpillar® 1800hp C-32 Acert engines and is capable of long range cruising at 9kn and a fast cruise of 23kn. She offers a luxurious on deck master along with four additional staterooms and is ready for her next grand adventure.

2015 Marlow Explorer 80E-CB

“Lady Eme” is a very unique command bridge and skybridge. Powered by twin Caterpillar® C-32 1800hp engines she is made for long range exploring in style, with minimal crew. Professionally maintained. Call today.

2018 Marlow 58E

“Imagine”, has three staterooms plus crew cabin, open upper helm with enclosure, lower helm galley, and a beautiful teak interior. Powered by twin 1000hp Caterpillar® engines with warranties in place, she is ready to cruise.

Sistership Photo

2016 Marlow Explorer 88E

2005 Marlow Explorer 53C “Tomfoolery

2015 Boston Whaler 32 Outrage “Forever Young”

2007 Marlow Explorer 53C “Mary’s Place”

2010 Marlow Explorer 57E “Marea”

2017 Marlow Explorer 66E “Night Moves”

North American and International Inquiries www.marlowmarine.com • sales @ marlowmarine.com Marlow Marine Sales, Inc. USA/Canada: 800.362.2657 International: +1.941.729.3370

Open seven days a week to better serve our clients.

Other Sold Boats Not Pictured: Optetime, Saga Boy II, Good Time Charlie


F I V E L O C AT I O N S

BENETE AU P O W E R BO ATS NEW MODEL

ARRIVING SOON! BLUE: C100 M70

2019 SWIFT TRAWLER 35

2019 SWIFT TRAWLER 47

2019 GRAN TURISMO 40

2020 ANTARES 27

2019 ANTARES 23

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C ARV E R YAC HTS COMING SOON!

2019 C52 COUPE

2019 CARVER C34 COUPE

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R E G AL BO ATS ARRIVING SOON!

2019 REGAL 330 OBX

2020 REGAL 38 GRAND COUPE

2019 REGAL 42 GRAND COUPE

P URS UI T BO ATS

2020 PURSUIT S288

2019 PURSUIT S328


CH R I S - C R AF T BO ATS REDUCED PRICE

NEW MODEL

2019 23 LAUNCH

2019 28 GT

2019 30 LAUNCH

2018 30 CALYPSO

NAUTIC S TAR BO ATS

2018 NAUTICSTAR 28XS

2018 NAUTICSTAR 2602 LEGACY

2018 NAUTICSTAR 223 DUAL CONSOLE

P R E - O W N E D BO ATS

2018 STINGRAY 186CC $31,900

2015 CHAPARRAL 330 $209,000

2016 BENETEAU GT 49 $629,000

1988 CARVER 36 MARINER $39,000

BROK E R AG E

2011 CATALINA 445 $245,000

1987 GRAND BANKS 46 CLASSIC $189,000

1998 SEA RAY 500 SUNDANCER $169,000

2015 REGAL 53 SPORT COUPE $824,000

1979 HATTERAS 53 MY $129,995

2001 OCEAN ALEXANDER 540 $425,000

1997 VIKING 58 CONVERTIBLE $299,999

2007 65 MARQUIS $1,250,000

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: 430 W. 23rd St, Holland, MI • Brandon Ricci: (616) 405-1715, Brandon@centerpointesales.com

WWW.CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM OR CALL (888) 9-YACHTS




COME VISIT US!

WAUKEGON 2ND ANNUAL

OPEN HOUSE & SUMMER CELEBRATION! JULY 13, 12-5 P.M.

2019 MONTE CARLO YACHTS 65 Available for Immediate Delivery

TO SEE OU R COM PLETE SELECTION OF PRE- OWN ED BOATS


NEW BOATS IN STOCK SO LD !

Monte Carlo Yachts 65 IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

Sabre 45 IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

Back Cove 41 IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

Back Cove 34O IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

Edgewater 280 CC IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

Edgewater 248 CX IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

Edgewater 230 CC IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

Edgewater 158 CS IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

FEATURED LISTINGS 66 65 62 60 60 58 58 56 53 51 50 45 45 44 42 42 42 41 41 41 39 39

2019 2019 2008 2019 1988 2013 1988 1985 2013 2000 1991 2019 1988 1999 1989 1985 1984 1998 2012 2005 1989 2000

Belize 66 Sedan............................................ Call Monte Carlo Yachts 65............................... Call Neptunus 62 Flybridge...................$792,000 Hatteras 60 Motor Yacht............................ Call Hatteras 60 Motor Yacht............... $299,000 Riviera 5800 Sport Yacht ...........$1,175,000 Vantare 58 Flush Deck MY............$225,000 Hatteras 56 Motor Yacht................$329,000 Seaton 53 Pilothouse Trawler ..... $349,000 Sea Ray 510 Sundancer ................ $237,999 Sea Ray Sundancer 50 ..................... $99,997 Sabre Salon Express .................................... Call Viking 45 Convertible......................$169,000 Baja 442 ...............................................$114,000 Cruisers 4280 ...................................... $34,900 Kadey-Krogen 42..............................$229,000 Bertram 42 Motor Yacht ................$109,000 Maxum 4100 SCR...............................$67,000 Sea Ray 410 Sundancer................ $399,000 Rinker 410 Express Cruiser ............$119,900 Sea Ray 390 Express Cruiser ......... $45,000 Mainship 390 Trawler .....................$139,000

DOOR COUNTY YACHTING CENTER, WI 920-743-6526

38 38 38 38 37 35 35 35 35 35 34 34 34 34 34 33 33 33 31 31 31 30 28

2002 2000 1993 1991 2001 2001 2009 2006 2005 1999 2006 2019 2001 1989 1984 1997 2001 2000 2000 1994 1990 2001 2019

Cruisers Yachts 3870 Express ......$108,000 Sea Ray 380 Sundancer ................$114,900 Sea Ray 380 Sun Sport.................... $49,900 Fountain 38 Sport Cruiser ............... $39,900 Maxum 3700 SCR.............................. $64,899 Carver 356 Motor Yacht ....................$97,000 Four Winns 358 Vista .......................$119,900 Regal 3560 Commodore ...............$119,000 Catalina 350 ........................................ $117,999 Carver 350 Mariner............................ $69,900 American Tug 34...............................$338,000 Back Cove 34O ............................................. Call Sea Ray 340 Sundancer ...................$77,000 Luhrs 342 tournament ..................... $22,900 Tollycraft 34 Tri Cabin........................ $28,499 Sea Ray 330 Express Cruiser ......... $59,000 Formula 330 Sun Sport.................... $59,900 Cruisers 3375 ...................................... $54,899 Sea Ray 310 Sundancer .................. $52,900 Spirit Equalizer Spirit 31 ................... $44,900 Sea Ray 310 ..........................................$27,000 Bayliner 3055 Ciera........................... $29,900 Edgewater 280CC ........................................ Call

SALES@BAYMARINE.NET WWW.BAYMARINE.NET

28 28 26 26 24 24 24 23 23 22 22 22 21 20 20 20 18 18 15 14 13 12

2014 2006 2017 2006 2007 2019 2016 2005 2019 2003 2005 1998 2016 2016 2011 1997 2004 1949 2019 2011 1997 2018

Bennington 2874 QCW.................... $79,000 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer .................. $49,900 Monterey M-65 ................................... $79,000 Sea Ray 260 Sundancer .................. $38,000 Bayliner Discovery 246..................... $29,000 Edgewater 248CX......................................... Call Yamaha Boats 242X E-Series......... $74,900 Caravelle Sea Hawk 230 CC .......... $39,900 Edgewater 230CC ........................................ Call Bayliner 2252 Ciera Classic ............ $15,900 Sea Ray 220 Sundeck....................... $29,500 Shamrock 220 Open......................... $24,900 Chaparral 21 H2O Sport.................. $35,900 Stabicraft Stabicraft 2050 ................ $58,000 Starcraft 2000 IO Limited................ $24,900 Grady-White Adventure 208........... $22,500 Sea Ray 180 Sport ................................ $9,700 Chris-Craft Riviera Classic................. $36,900 Edgewater 158CS......................................... Call Walker Bay 14...................................... $19,000 Boston Whaler Dauntless 13.............$9,000 Walker Bay 365 ST................................ $5,223

CHICAGO YACHTING CENTER, IL 847-336-2628


H Family-owned and

H Large selection of new,

servicing the boaters of the Great Lakes for over 55 years

H GREAT LAKES LARGEST

used & brokerage boats

H Sales, Service, Parts,

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PRESTIGE YACHTS DEALER

H LAKE MICHIGAN’S JEANNEAU YACHTS DEALER

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FAIRLINE YACHTS DEALER

2019 Prestige 520S Coupe

2020 Jeanneau NC 37

2020 Fairline Targa 45 Open

Call for Special Pricing

Call for Special Pricing

Call for Special Pricing

USED & BROKERAGE BOATS

2017 Galeon 420 Flybridge Trades welcome $549,000

2015 Prestige 450S Coupe Trades welcome $569,000 $529,000

2017 Prestige 550 Flybridge Price Reduction $1,199,000 $1,099,000

2018 Prestige 520 Flybridge Low Hours $1,099,000

Find these boats and much more at www.springbrookmarina.com Seneca, IL • Chicago, IL • Traverse City, MI • Eastlake, OH • Fish Creek, WI 815-357-8666

www.springbrookmarina.com

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sales@springbrookmarina.com


STINGRAY BOATS ARE AVAILABLE AT THESE GREAT LAKES AREA DEALERS USA DEALERS American Marina & Motorsports 830 E Green Bay Street Shawano WI 715-526-4300 americanmarina.com Centerpointe Yacht Services 77 S 1st Ave Sturgeon Bay WI 920-746-1912 centerpointeservice.com

Bill’s Boatworks 187 Wilmuth Avenue Lackawanna NY 716-824-7181 billsboatworks.com Frank's Marine 17530 W Akron Canfield Rd Berlin Center OH 330-547-3688 franksmarine.com

Boat Guys 104 W Lake Road Maryville NY 716-753-3913 chautauquamarina.com Glen Harbor Marina 517 E 4th Street Watkins Glen NY 607-535-2751 glenharbormarina.com

CenterPointe Yacht Services 21 56th Street Kenosha WI 414-273-0711 centerpointeservice.com

Grand Valley Marine 3711 28th Street SW Grandville MI 616-538-2460 grandvalleymarine.com

CenterPointe Yacht Services 400 Sussex Street Pewaukee WI 262-333-0700 centerpointeservice.com

R C Congel Boats 8575 Brewerton Road Cicero NY 315-699-2144 rccongel.com

Wonderland Marine West 5796 E Grand River Ave Howell MI 517-548-5122 wonderlandmarinewest.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

CANADA DEALERS Anstruther Marina 23 Fire Route 63 Apsley, Ontario 705-656-4783 anstrutherlakemarina.com

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

TO LOCATE A STINGRAY DEALER IN ANOTHER AREA, VISIT STINGRAYBOATS.COM/DEALERS


BROKERAGE BOATS 11’ 13’ 13’ 24’ 25’ 25’ 27’ 27’ 28’ 28’ 28’ 28’ 28’ 30’ 31’ 32’ 34’ 34’ 36’ 36’ 36’ 36’ 38’ 41’ 41’ 42’ 42’ 42’ 43’ 44’ 45’ 47’ 49’ 50’ 50’ 56’ 60’ 75’ 80’

2018 2017 2018 2004 2000 1987 1998 2006 1978 1980 1986 2003 2015 1983 1979 2012 1983 1983 1983 2006 2010 2013 2013 1989 2001 1972 1987 2005 1992 1994 1987 2005 1985 1981 1990 1983 1988 2001 2004

Walker Bay 340 Generation................................................$13,500 Grand 370 Silverline ..........................................................$11,900 Avon Seasport 380 Deluxe NEO 50hp.................................$22,900 Campion 602 Sports Utility.................................................$22,900 Pursuit 2460 Denali sale pending .........................................$24,900 Bayliner 2560 .....................................................................$6,000 Rinker 270 Fiesta Vee........................................................$18,900 Hunter 27 .........................................................................$29,900 Bertram 28 Sport Fisherman ..............................................$29,900 O’Day 28 ............................................................................$9,900 Carver 28 Riviera...............................................................$11,500 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer ....................................................$47,900 Cutwater 28....................................................................$160,000 Catalina 30 .......................................................................$17,200 Bombay Clipper 31 sale pending ...........................................$12,000 Seaward 32RK ................................................................$114,900 Hunter 34 .........................................................................$18,990 S2 Yachts 10.3..................................................................$24,900 Carver 36 Aft Cabin Motor Yacht sale pending .......................$27,500 Albemarle 3600 Express..................................................$259,900 Sabre Spirit .....................................................................$165,000 Tiara 3600 Open .............................................................$429,900 Rinker 360 Express Cruiser..............................................$148,500 Hans Christian 41T..........................................................$189,000 Hunter 410 .......................................................................$99,999 Allied 42 XL ......................................................................$65,000 Carver 42 Aft Cabin Motoryacht..........................................$69,900 Beneteau 423 .................................................................$139,900 Hunter 43 Legend .............................................................$79,900 Sea Ray 44 Sundancer ......................................................$79,900 Bruce Roberts Offshore 45.................................................$24,500 Beneteau 473 .................................................................$199,900 Grand Banks 49 Motoryacht.............................................$215,000 Gulfstar 50’ Ketch .............................................................$99,900 Viking 50 Motor Yacht......................................................$199,900 Hatteras 56 Motor Yacht ..................................................$299,900 Hatteras 60 Motor Yacht ..................................................$349,900 Hatteras 75 Cockpit Motor Yacht....................................$1,299,900 Hatteras 80 Motor Yacht ...............................................$2,100,000

SAVE BIG on remaining 2018 models! We are experiencing price increases for boats and engines for the 2019 model year, so now is a great time to get the best deal on our in-stock 2018 models. Visit our website to see what is still available!

FIND OUR COMPLETE LIST OF INVENTORY INCLUDING NEW, USED AND BROKERAGE BOATS AT WWW.REEDYACHTSALES.COM

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


Marine Marketplace

ONEKAMA MARINE, INC.

LAKE MICHIGAN YACHT SALES

Onekama, MI • (231) 889-5000 www.onekamamarine.com

Bay Harbor, MI • (231) 439-2675 www.lakemichiganyachtsales.com

New Monterey 258 SS

Riviera 4800 Sport

IN STOCK

New Wellcraft 222

In Stock For Immediate Delivery IN STOCK

Fresh Water Power! 45’ 44’ 40’ 40’ 38’ 36’ 34’ 32’ 32’ 31’ 31’ 30’ 29’ 27’ 26’ 25’ 23’ 17’

‘69 ‘85 ‘91 ‘67 ‘09 ‘03 ‘81 ‘91 ‘70 ‘16 ‘93 ‘06 ‘98 ‘85 ‘84 ‘04 ‘00 ‘50

Matthews.......................................$69,000 Gulfstar Motor Yacht .............Sale Pending Sea Ray Express 400.....................$45,000 Chris Craft ......................................$84,900 Chaparral Signtr 350 ..............Sale Pending Carver 360 Sport Sedan ........Sale Pending Silverton..........................................$14,900 Four Winns 328 Vista ....................$38,900 Downeaster ...................................$34,500 Hunter Marlow 31 motivated! .....$129,900 Sea Ray SS31 w/trailer..................$19,900 Sea Ray Sundancer .......................$68,900 Larson 29 Cabrio 290 ....................$23,900 Sea Ray Sundancer twin I/Os .........$7,900 Uniflite Whaleboat.........................$29,000 Hunt Yachts Surfhunter.................$89,900 Boston Whaler Outrage ................$26,900 Chris Craft Special .........................$20,000

2009 Chaparral 350, $145,000

harborviewyachtsales.com

SELECT • PRE-OWNED • BROKERAGE • REPOSSESSIONS

2018 Sailfish 242 Center Console 21’ 21’ 21’ 22’ 23’ 23’ 23’ 23’ 23’ 24’ 26’ 26’ 26’ 28’ 29’ 32’ 32’ 34’ 35’ 36’ 36’ 37’ 38’ 38’ 40’ 43’ 43’ 56’

‘12 ’03 ’00 ‘12 ‘17 ’08 ’00 ’99 ’90 ’01 ’05 ’04 ’03 ’00 ‘13 ‘99 ’98 ‘02 ’00 ’06 ‘02 ‘87 ’99 ’88 ‘89 ’99 ’95 ‘06

CALL FOR COMPLETE LIST!

2019 36 Yellowfin Center Console

JC Tri-toon, 115HP Mercury, full cover, ski tow, stereo, clean ..................................................................................................................$29,900 Ranger Comanche, 250HP Mercury, trailer, trolling motor, dual fish fnders......................................................................................................$28,900 Chris Craft Bowrider, 5.7L Volvo, bow & cockpit covers, bimini, trailer .............................................................................................................$14,900 Sea Ray Sundeck, 260HP Merc BIII, wake tower, trailer............................................................................................................................$44,900 Premier Tri-toon, 150HP Mercury 4S, full cover, bimini, GPS, ski tow ......................................................................................................$36,900 Pro-Line WA, Enclosed Hardtop, 225 Mercury 4S, trailer, full electr. .................................................................................................................$49,900 Four Winns 230 Horizon, 7.4L Volvo DP, trailer, full canvas...................................................................................................................................$21,500 Four Winns 238 Vista, 5.0L Volvo, camper, trailer, clean .......................................................................................................................................$17,900 Chris Craft Mahogany Triple Cockpit Replica, 351 CI I/B, 60 hours, trailer ..............................................................................................$79,000 Sea Ray Weekender, 5.0L Merc MPI BIII, trailer, cockpit cover .........................................................................................................................$24,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, 300HP Merc BIII, air, arch, windlass, GPS, clean........................................................................................................................................$47,900 Formula Bowrider, Volvo 8.1L DP, bow & cockpit covers, select exhaust, clean.......................................................................................................................$37,900 Four Winns 268 Vista, 5.7L Volvo, Shorepower, camper .......................................................................................................................................$33,900 Pursuit Denali, T-4.3L Mercs, arch, windlass, cockpit cover, GPS, trailer...............................................................................................$39,900 Chaparral Signature, T-4.3L Mercs, arch, camper top, air/heat, low hours ..........................................................................................$109,000 Monterey express, T-5.7L Mercs, low hours, air/heat, full canvas, shows well.....................................................................................$39,900 Cruisers 3375, T-7.4L Merc VD, air/heat, windlass, full canvas, one owner.................................................................................................................................$43,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-8.1L Mercs, air, Genset, windlass, nicely equipped ............................................................................................$84,900 Formula Fast-Tec, T-500HP Mercs, racing drives, HP gears, extension boxes, trailer..........................................................................$79,900 Tiara Open, T-8.1L, air/heat, Genset, full elect, hardtop, loaded .....................................................................................................................................................$179,900 Sea Ray Sundancer T-8, 1L Mercs, air/heat, Genset, full canvas, full electr, clean.............................................................................$119,900 Silverton Convertible, T-7.4L, air/heat, GPS, one owner, super clean ......................................................................................................$34,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-7.4 Merc, air/heat, Genset, full electr, windlass, low hours, super clean....................................................................................... $119,900 Bayliner 3818, T-175HP Hino Diesels, air/heat, Genset, lower station, windlass....................................................................................$49,900 Luhrs Convertible, T-7.4L Crusaders, air, Genset, full electr. and rigged for fishing...............................................................................$32,900 Jefferson Sedan, T-Volvo Diesels, air/heat, Genset, bridge enclosure............................................................................................................$129,900 Tiara 4300 Open, T-6V92 Detroit, air, Genset, hardtop, loaded.........................................................................................................................................................$142,900 Carver Voyager, T-D9A Volvos, full elect, bow & stern thruster, loaded, clean ....................................................................................$496,000 PROFESSIONAL AND EXPERIENCED BROKERS, WE NEED LISTINGS!

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PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

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YEAR-ROUND, FULL-SERVICE MARINA 821 W. Savidge, Spring Lake, MI 49456 Sales: 616-604-0234 / Marina: 616-842-1488 WWW.NORTHSHOREMARINA.COM


Marine Marketplace

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70’ 58’ 45' 43’ 43' 42’ 42’ 41’ 40’ 39' 37'

Davis Sportfisherman T-1825hp Dsl... $2,799,000 Hatteras Yacht Fish T-430HP Dsl ............$225,000 Cherubini Indpd.Trawler T-250hp Dsl...........SOLD! Egg Harbor Sport Yacht T-700hp Dsl ........SOLD! Hatteras Motor Yacht T-485hp Dsl.........$119,900 Buddy Davis Cntr Cnsole Quad 400hp......SOLD! Buddy Davis Cntr Cnsole Quad 350hp...$699,000 Silverton Aft Cabin T-502s ...........................SOLD! Sea Ray 400 EC T-340....................................SOLD! Silverton 392 Motor Yacht T-410hp ..........$99,900 Intrepid 377 WA Trip-300hp.........................SOLD!

91 86 20 19 00 87 08 19 07 20 70

37’ 37’ 34' 34’ 34’ 32’ 31’ 28’ 28' 28' 26’

Sea Ray Sedan Bridge T-340hp .................SOLD! Egg Harbor Convertible T-350HP............. $49,900 Buddy Davis CC T-425hp..................... ON ORDER Buddy Davis Cntr Cnsole Twin 425hp.......SOLD! Mainship Pilot 34 S-350hp Dsl....................SOLD! Topaz Sportfisherman T-375hp Dsl......$42,500 Pursuit 315 Offshore T-250hp ...............$160,000 Buddy Davis Center Console T-300hp......SOLD! Pursuit 285 Offshore T-250hp...................$109,900 Buddy Davis CC T-300hp..................... ON ORDER Lyman Sleeper S-225HP w/trailer............$18,900

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CONTACT: PATTI MCCLEERY TELEPHONE: 312-276-0610 x.21 PMCCLEERY@LAKELANDBOATING.COM


great gifts!

Boarding Pole

Extra assistance boarding the boat. $79.99/$99.99

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Burgee Holder

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Marine Marketplace

ADDED SAfEty At thE Dock & on thE wAtEr

BERGMANN MARINE

Charlevoix, MI 49720 • Phone 231/547-3957

www.bergmannmarine.com 13’ 2014 Boston Whaler .....................$14,000

41’ 1975 Chris-Craft 410 M/Y ................SOLD

23’ 2012 MasterCraft X-30 .................$68,000

43’ 2006 Tiara 4300 Sovran ...................SOLD

27’ 2007 Sea Ray Amberjack ............$49,000

46’ 1999 Beneteau Oceanis 461 ..... $169,900

30’ 1981 Pearson Flyer........................$12,000

48’ 2006 Sea Ray 48 Sundancer..........SOLD

36’ 1987 Tiara Conv. ............................ $69,900

48’ 2002 Fairline Targa 48 ................ $259,000

36’ 1984 Catalina ........................................ Call

50’ 1986 Chris-Craft Constellation ......$169,00

39’ 1983 Lindmark Trawler 39............$60,000 Fiberglass – Woodworking Storage – Heated Storage

Complete Mechanical Electrical Rigging – Haulout

Classifieds

Place your classified online! Place your classified ad at lakelandboating.com by JULY 19 to get into our August, September, October and our November/December 2019 issues!

2020 22' CAPE DORY 220 SPORT Excellent, fuel efficient and versatile boat. 115 Hp. Canvas & other items in photo are optional. Asking $49,997. Dealerships Available. Contact 206-290-0028 or madisonbay22@gmail.com. OCT19

2018 WELDCRAFT 202 REBEL HARDTOP Yamaha F175XA plus Yamaha T9.9XPB high thrust remote kicker. Straight stern rail with downrigger brackets, livewell. Washdown pump, upgraded suspension seats, and 33" rear bench seats. Upgraded hydraulic steering, plus much more! Asking $59,900. Call Matt at 734-735-1948 RYS

2006 ALBEMARLE 3600 EXPRESS Nice offshore fishing vessel. Caterpillar C-9, 575 hp twin diesels, 970 hours, Onan generator (952 hours), helm deck AC, bow and stern thrusters, newer Garmin electronics, electronic controls, Maxwell windlass, custom Hardtop with outriggers and more. Asking $259,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0180. RYS

38' CHRIS-CRAFT COMMANDER “Wide Body” Sedan, 1972. 454 Crusaders. Generator, radar, GPS/ depth. Price: $20,000. Located in Ontonagon, MI. Call 906-932-1576 or email nomadbrh@ chartermi.net. SEP19

2015 REGAL 53 SPORT COUPE Immaculate boat, only 77 hours, still under manufacturer warranty. Every amenity imaginable. Never lived aboard. Twin Cummins Zeus Pods. Truly luxurious, highest level of comfort and the latest in technology. Freshwater only. Asking $824,000. Call 231-409-1792 or email tammie.cornell@grandbaymarine.com. OCT19

DOOR COUNTY PROPERTY Yacht Harbor and shoreline property in Door County, Wisconsin. 21 acres with southern exposure on Lake Michigan. 1,200 feet of shoreline with a deep harbor that can accommodate vessels in the 80' range. Price: $1.45 million. For additional information, contact Dan at 312-998-9010, or email dkaniff@gmail.com. NOV19

EMPLOYMENT HELP WANTED: Experienced boat salesperson and technicians needed. The sooner the better! Please call: 630-330-5333. BAS

2012 SEAWARD 32RK The Spirit Driven boasts excellent features, including bow thruster and feathering prop, Yanmar diesel (3YM30, 28hp, heat exchanger cooled), 460' of working sail area. Clean boat and ready for the next adventure! Asking $114,900. Call Chuck at 734-497-3721. RYS

42' 2017 GALEON 42 FLYBRIDGE D6 435 HP Volvos; freshwater only; low hours; trades welcome. 2 stateroom 2 head layout; radar, autopilot, GPS, VHF, chart plotters, depth finder; windlass w/anchor; bottom painted. Asking $549,900. Contact 815357-8666 or sales@springbrookmarina.com. SPR

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT SLIP FOR SALE/LEASE 60' Boat slip for sale or seasonal lease. Premier location in Harbor Springs, MI. Gated & private. Beach, shower & bathroom facilities. Short walk to town. $295,000 sale / $9,450 seasonal lease. Call/txt: 248-882-4066. AUG19

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CLASSIC CRAFT

Water Lily

ADD YOUR BOAT

80

My wife, Debbie, and I didn’t know much about wooden boats until we started searching for a retirement home in the beautiful Les Cheneaux Islands on Lake Huron’s north shore. That’s when we noticed all these classic wooden boats busily traversing the many bays and channels that make up the 37-island archipelago between Hessel and Cedarville — and we were hooked! Coincidently, Roger, a retired shop teacher in our central Michigan hometown, was selling his boat, Water Lily, because he was landlocked and unable to fully enjoy his pride and joy apart from an occasional show. We couldn’t resist the opportunity. After passing through many hands, Water Lily had been discovered in need of renovation in a backyard in 1996. Over the next few years, she was painstakingly restored at Macatawa Bay Boat Works in Saugatuck, Michigan. This included a new bottom, frames and transom with a new deck, floors, seats and upholstery. The 1947 Chrysler Ace 6 engine was completely rebuilt and all the original hardware and instruments were rechromed. To top it off, Lily received a new paint job and multiple coats of varnish making her gleam — so much so that she was a class winner at the prestigious classic wooden boat shows in Hessel, Traverse City and Port Sanilac. Thanks to Roger’s meticulous record keeping, we are fortunate to know a lot about Lily’s history. She was the 199th Rocket produced in Chris-Craft’s Caruthersville, Missouri, production facility, as detailed in the handwritten equipment record we have dated December 12, 1946. Originally painted white and red with a rocket logo and natural mahogany on deck, she sported red leatherette upholstery and must have been quite an eye catcher. In 1947, Water Lily was shipped for sale to Algonac, Michigan, where the first owners would have paid the handsome sum of $1,890. At that time, the top-speed claimed was 36 mph. Today we can testify that Water Lily still tops 30 mph with ease and she sure lives up to the “Rocket” label! Of course, times change and families grow so now we need a bigger boat (who doesn’t?). Water Lily will soon be seeking another new home. We’ll be sad to see her go, but treasure the memories and have all the gorgeous pictures to reflect on for many years to come. Water Lily Email kbush@lakelandboating.com if you have a has and will always have a special place in our hearts! Classic Craft with a good story to share! —James and Debbie White, Hessel, MI

AUGUST 2019

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LAKELANDBOATING.COM

PHOTO COURTE SY OF JAMES AND DEBBIE WHITE

1947 Chris-Craft Special Runabout (Rocket).


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