February 2022

H U RO N

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O N TA R I O

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MICHIGAN

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ERIE

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S U P E R I OR

F E BR UAR Y 202 2

MARLOW 70E MKII Bespoke yachting. p. 32

ASPEN C90

A unique hull creates the perfect base for Great Lakes cruising. p. 36

THE ATLANTIC

A tragic Lake Erie shipwreck helped shape future safety standards. p. 40

BOATING BIZ

Nicki Polan runs one of Michigan’s largest boating associations. p. 44

SPOTL I GHT S AB S O LU T E ★ B AR LET TA B L AC KF I N ★ MAG B AY

PORT OF CALL

Washburn, WI: This charming port offers a welcome change of pace. p. 48

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Features

ON THE COVER

The Marlow 70E MKII has graced our cover in the past (February 2019 and February 2021), yet each time we review this bespoke yacht, it’s a new take on a classic model. You see, every Marlow yacht is custom-built for each customer, offering boaters precisely what they desire.

Marlow 70E MKII

Having it your way. Story & photos by Capt. Tom Serio........... 32

Aspen C90

Great for the Great Lakes. by Arnie Hammerman ................. 36

Tragedy of the Atlantic

In an era when shipwrecks were regular occurrences and safety standards non-existent, a collision on Lake Erie with a staggering death toll laid the foundation for new safety protocols that protect mariners to this day. by Craig Ritchie ....................... 40

Drawn to the Water

Nicki Polan, lifelong Michigander and MBIA’s executive director, gets to “work in an industry dedicated to bringing joy to families.” by Heather Steinberger .............................. 44

Port of Call: Washburn, WI

Waiting in Washburn: Small-town charm with all the amenities in the lovely northern Wisconsin bay town of Washburn.

by Felicia Schneiderhan ...................................................... 48

@

lakelandboating.com

★ Shop boats for sale by owner ★ Place a classified ad ★ Peruse dozens of exciting destination stories ★ Check out our latest Boat Tests & Spotlights ★ Purchase our Great Lakes Cruising Guides and Lakeland Boating hats ★ Access past issues with our online magazine ★ Stay current on all the latest Great Lakes news ★ Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter ★ And much more!

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Departments

From the Helm ........................................................................... 4 Dock Box ..................................................................................... 6

Calendar .......................................................................................8 Scuttle ........................................................................................10

Great Gear................................................................................ 18 Don’t Hesitate to Renovate ................................................... 20 Safety First................................................................................ 22

Electronics................................................................................ 24 Beneath the Surface ............................................................... 26

Boat Spotlights: Absolute, Barletta, Blackfin, Mag Bay....... 28 Boat Biz: Quality Marine Electronics................................... 54 Lakeshore Life: Fort Myers, FL ............................................. 56

Marine Marketplace................................................................ 57 Classifieds.................................................................................. 71 Classic Craft............................................................................. 72

PHOTO COURTESY OF TRAVEL WISCONSIN

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FROM THE HELM B Y K AT E B U S H

CONTRIBUTORS

Remaining Hopeful

KEN KREISLER

A

s the boating industry continues to navigate COVID and its ensuing complications, boat shows —especially those held indoors — remain up in the air. We just got word that the 2022 Toronto Boat Show is moving to an online format, and the Chicago and Detroit shows have been canceled.

Nevertheless, we remain hopeful that things will eventually return to some form of normalcy in 2023, that supply chain issues will be resolved, and that a new generation will be drawn to boating.

One woman who knows this better than most is Nicki Polan, Michigan Boating Industries Association’s (MBIA) executive director, who is hard at work organizing shows and finding new ways to reach and educate a new audience of future boaters (p. 44). Read about Polan’s more than three-decade career at MBIA, as well as the association’s five main priorities, including protecting Michigan’s lakes and fisheries.

Today’s marine industry is collectively working to create safer products and solutions for boaters. But safety standards were not always top of mind in the boating world.

One particularly grim example of this is the case of the Atlantic paddle steamer, which sank in Lake Erie in 1852 (p. 40). While unbelievably tragic, this disaster set in motion new — and much needed — boating safety mandates, including requiring adequate lifeboats and life preservers for every passenger onboard; implementing fog horns; and establishing maximum passenger limits.

While you eagerly await the upcoming boating season, consider adding Washburn, Wisconsin, to your cruising schedule (p. 48). This friendly port of call offers a slowed pace, modern amenities, a charming downtown, tons of recreation options and quick access to the Apostle Islands. Visit to see for yourself !

Stay safe, warm and healthy!

READ HIS STORIES STARTING ON P. 28

HHH

HEATHER STEINBERGER

Heather is an awardwinning writer/editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 20 years.

She grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan and enjoys powerboating, sailing and stand-up paddleboarding with her husband, professional photographer Richard Steinberger, and daughter, Johanna.

READ HER STORY ON P. 44

Do you have a story idea you’d like to suggest?

Email me at kbush@lakelandboating.com to share your ideas.

HHH

AREAS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE

Washburn, WI p. 48

A multi BWI awardwinning journalist, Capt. Ken began his nautical career while in high school, spending summers doing odd jobs in the boatyard of a local marina in Brooklyn, New York. He worked his way through undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate academic studies as the skipper of his own six-pack charter boat, and upon completion of his degree work, secured his first job as a writer in the marine industry and never looked back. Capt. Ken splits his seasonal time between the New Jersey Shore and West Palm Beach, Florida.

FELICIA SCHNEIDERHAN

Felicia, her husband, Mark, and their three tsunamis explore Lake Superior aboard their 38-foot Marine Trader trawler, Mazurka.

Their early live-aboard adventures are detailed in her memoir “Newlyweds Afloat.” You can read more of her work at FELICIASCHNEIDERHAN.COM. READ HER STORY ON P. 48

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Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition

AUSTRALIA’S WORLD CLASS COLLECTION OF LUXURY MOTOR YACHTS E xhilarating blue-water performance has always been a part of the Riviera heritage. Over 40 years of constant refinement, a timeless contemporary design is evident across the entire 24-model collection. Sweeping lines of grace and beauty, luxurious staterooms bathed in natural light, the finest fabrics, leather and handcrafted joinery of exotic timbers. These are the qualities that make every Riviera a world class luxury motor yacht. Engineering excellence in harmony with state-of-the-art electronics and industry-leading extended warranty program, creates the ultimate boating experience that is uniquely Riviera. Easy operation creates enjoyable adventures for family and friends. Discover more at RivieraAustralia.com

210386

Step aboard Riviera at the Miami International Boat Show, One Herald Plaza - February 16-20, 2022 Lake Michigan Yacht Sales Bay Harbor, MI p: 231 439 2675 Lakemichiganyachtsales.com Onekama Marine Inc. Onekama, MI p: 231 889 5000 Onekamamarine.com

Bay Marine, Door County Yachting Center Sturgeon Bay, WI p: 920 743 6526 Baymarine.net Bay Marine’s Chicago Yachting Center Waukegan, IL p: 847 336 2628 Baymarine.net

DOCK BOX

FEBRUARY 2022 | VOLUME LXXVI, NO. 2

CANINE CREW KIELA This is my son’s 13-year-old Rottweiler, Kiela. We moved to Marmora, Ontario, on Beaver Creek a year ago.

She just loves going on the pontoon boat and the ATV or just laying on the patio.

Her back legs are starting to give her a hard time, and in August, we found out she has a tumour and is now losing weight. But we just love her and are not sure how long she will be around. Nothing can stop her from going out on the boat for a ride down the creek to the lake.

—Curtt Snider, Marmora, Ontario

NEW! LAKE LENS

We want to see the gorgeous Great Lakes from your point of view! Send a short write-up about the photo, as well as a high-resolution photo (at least 1 MB) to KBUSH@ LAKELANDBOATING.

Please put “Lake Lens” in the subject line.

If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!

COM.

PUBLISHER Linda O’Meara PUBLISHER IN MEMORIUM Walter “Bing” O’Meara EDITORIAL STAFF Editorial Director: Kate Bush Assistant Editor: Abby Thorpe CREATIVE STAFF Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs CONTRIBUTORS Helen Aitken, Arnie Hammerman, Glenn Hayes, Ken Kreisler, Capt. Frank Lanier, Tom Michaels, Craig Ritchie, Felicia Schneiderhan, Capt. Tom Serio, Heather Steinberger, BUSINESS STAFF National Sales: Mark Conway Regional Sales: Patti McCleery Accounting: Marguerite Wristen EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 / Fax: 312-276-0619 INFO@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

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 highresolution 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? 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.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Lakeland Boating P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-504-8475 O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC Vice President: Linda O’Meara Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2022,

by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’MearaBrown Publications, Inc. • Business/Accounting and Editorial Offices: 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201, 312-276-0610. • Call 847-5048475 to subscribe. Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 (U.S.). Annual subscription rates: United States: $24.95 per year; International and Canadian: $39.95 per year, includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. 894095074-RT 0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $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 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069. • Lakeland Boating is a registered trademark of O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., Evanston, IL. Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. • Unsolicited work may be submitted at the creator’s own risk. Lakeland Boating assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited material. All submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage. All published photos are courtesy of the manufacturer, unless otherwise noted.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

E-mail us at KBUSH@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.

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PRINTED IN THE U.S.A

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JAN 31 – FEB 5

I-500 Snowmobile Race Sault Ste. Marie, MI I-500.COM

FEB 3 – 21

Hamilton Winterfest Hamilton, ON

HAMILTONWINTERFEST.CA

Perchville USA Tawas City, MI

1

1

TAWAS.COM

Green Bay Boat Show Green Bay, WI RESCHCOMPLEX.COM

INDIANAPOLISBOATSPORTAND TRAVELSHOW.COM

FEB 16 – 20

Magical Ice Fest 2 St. Joseph, MI

Miami International Boat Show Miami, FL

FEB 19

FEB 17 – 20

BATB.ORG

SHOWSPAN.COM/GRB

MIAMIBOATSHOW.COM

Central New York Winter Boat Show Syracuse, NY

STCLOUDSPORTSHOW.COM

FEB 5

CNYBOATSHOW.COM

Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel & RV Show Duluth, MN

FEB 5 – 6

MINNESOTASPORTSHOW.COM

FEB 19 – 27

Kenosha Restaurant Week Kenosha, WI

FEB 24 – 27

Cottage & Lakefront Living Show Detroit, MI SHOWSPAN.COM/CLD

Fish Creek Winter Festival Fish Creek, WI

Labatt Blue U.P. Pond Hockey Championship St. Ignace, MI

Outdoorama 6 Novi, MI

Fort Wayne Boat Show & Sale Fort Wayne, IN

FEB 17 – 21

FEB 25 – 27

La Crosse Boat, Sports, Travel, RV & Hunting Show La Crosse, WI

UP200.ORG

VISITFISHCREEK.COM/EVENTS/ WINTER-FESTIVAL

STIGNACE.COM

FEB 10 – 13

UP 200, Midnight Run & Jack Pine 30 Sled Dog Races Marquette, MI

FORTWAYNEBOATSHOW.COM

FEB 18 – 19

Fire and Ice Sturgeon Bay, WI

SPORTSHOWWI.COM

FEB 11 – 14

STURGEONBAY.NET

Petoskey Winter Weekend Petoskey, MI

FEB 18 – 20

Rockford Boat, Vacation & Fishing Show Loves Park, IL

PETOSKEYDOWNTOWN.COM

FEB 12

Winter Festival Bay City, MI

ROCKFORDBOATSHOW.COM

MICHIGAN.GOV/DNR

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Book Across the Bay 5 Ashland, WI

VISITKENOSHA.COM

Ice-a-Fair Vermilion, OH

MAINSTREETVERMILION.ORG

F E B R U A R Y 2022

Winterama Carnival Penetanguishene, ON WINTERAMA.CA

St. Cloud Sportsmen’s Show St. Cloud, MN

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FEB 18 – 21

Grand Rapids Boat Show 4 Grand Rapids, MI

STJOETODAY.COM/ICEFEST

4

VASA.ORG

Ford Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show Indianapolis, IN

Ice Breaker Festival South Haven, MI

SOUTHHAVENMI.COM

3

FEB 18 – 20 & 23 – 27

North American VASA 3 Festival of Races Traverse City, MI

FEB 4 – 6

2

FEB 12 – 13

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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SHOWSPAN.COM/OUT

Boat Show in Springfield Springfield, IL

THEBOATSHOWINSPRINGFIELD.COM

Meijer State Games of Michigan Winter Games Marquette, MI STATEGAMESOFMICHIGAN.COM/ WINTERGAMES

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

P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F : 1 . T A W A S . C O M ; 2 . S T. J O S E P H T O D A Y F A C E B O O K ; 3 . N O R T H A M E R I C A N V A S A F A C E B O O K ; 4 . S H O W S P A N ; 5 : B AT B .O R G ; 6 : S H O W S PA N

DOUBLE-CHECK BEFORE YOU GO! Events are likely to change. Please watch event websites for updates.

FEB 4 – 5

Protect your baby with a leader in boat insurance.

1- 8 0 0 -PROG RE S S IVE / PROG RE S S IVE .COM

Progressive Casualty Insurance Co. & affiliates.

Accidents happen.

EVENTS

ABM Announces Winter 2022 Session of The Captain School Clayton, New York’s Antique Boat Museum (ABM) has released its winter 2022 schedule for The Captain School. The courses — including Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV), Masters Upgrade, and Towing Endorsement — are necessary to secure a Captain’s License. Upon completion of all coursework and testing, students will have the materials to apply for their Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) through the U.S. Coast Guard at either the OUPV or Masters level up to 100GRT with the option to add a Towing Endorsement.

To view course times and dates, visit “The Captain School at ABM” page at ABM.ORG.

SCUTTLE G R EAT L A K ES N E WS

BOAT S

M U ST-HAV E

BUZZ

EV ENTS

BUSINESS

BUZZ

The 2022 Festival of Sail Lake Superior will now take place in Two Harbors, Minnesota, as a lakefront construction project in Duluth has prompted the location change.

LAKESUPERIOR. FESTOFSAIL.COM

ADD YOUR NEWS! Email KBUSH@

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

to add your company’s Great Lakes News to Scuttle!

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Munson Marine Slips Now Available to Reserve

Now is your chance to get a slip on Illinois’ popular Chain O’ Lakes waterfront. Reservations for Munson Marine’s brand-new luxury marina are now open to the public for the 2022 season. Book a boat slip or a valet service for this upcoming boating season in a marina that’s located in a no-wake zone, is the only marina on the Chain with concrete docks and is walking distance to downtown McHenry, Illinois. Other perks include a gas dock, on-water marine services, water and electric at all slips, a brand-new service department and 24/7 key-carded bathrooms with showers.

For more information, visit MUNSONMARINE.COM. BOATS

Maritimo Unveils Largest Yacht Yet

Since the inception of its groundbreaking enclosed flybridge motoryacht 18 years ago, Maritimo has been redefining the long-range cruising motoryacht concept.

This year, it will release its largest motoryacht to date, the M75.

The 75-foot M75 offers the highest level of customer input and the most in-depth design and development process ever undertaken at Maritimo.

Maritimo’s production facilities even underwent extensive upgrades and expansions in 2019 in order to design bigger vessels like the M75.

“Step aboard, and the first impression the M75 emanates

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is certainly that of unsurpassed amounts of deck space,” says Maritimo Director of Design Tom Barry-Cotter. “The M75 adventure deck creates an incredibly versatile hub for lounging, cooking, adventuring or storage, with plenty of room to spare.”

The yacht offers Scania Di161150 MHP standard power units, with the option to upgrade, and a 2,641-gallon fuel capacity to reach long-range destinations.

The massive deck space includes furniture designed in modules, and the upper cockpit deck boasts a flybridge headliner.

The open atrium companionway is the largest and most striking in its class, and below deck the sleeping quarters offer no less space, with four staterooms and three heads, including an impressive owner’s stateroom.

With this much space, there are also plenty of storage options, including a tender garage.

To learn more, visit MARITIMO.COM.

SCUTTLE

BUZZ

Thoroughbred Boat Company Brings Boat Building Back to Manistee, Michigan Thoroughbred Boat Company, a new startup business in Manistee, Michigan, is producing an instant classic model called the U23i.

Ten years ago, Michael Kamaloski, a Manistee native, career boat builder and marine industry executive, shared a concept for a powerboat with a group of industry friends. As a result, a newly formed marine group was developed, along with a new boat brand called Thoroughbred. This unique team has the same passion for utilizing their individual talents, skills and knowledge to create a manufacturing company that will produce a product line that is exciting, fun and made in Manistee.

“This project encompassed the startup of a true Michigan boat builder,” Kamaloski says. “We design and build classic-styled, luxury watercraft using modern-day manufacturing methods and materials to simplify production and minimize costs. Our products take styling and design cues from historic and classic boat companies such as Century, Garwood and Chris-Craft.

However, our biggest motivator was to bring boat building back to our community, provide great jobs and teach the next generation all about this wonderful industry. We want everyone in our community to feel that they are a part of our brand, whether they work for us or not.”

The first model, the U23i, made its debut to the public on September 18, 2021, at the annual Hops and Props event in Manistee.

For more information, visit

Canada Approves Sirius Signal’s C-1002 Two-Dolor Distress Light

Following in the footsteps of the U.S. Coast Guard, Transport Canada has also approved the use of Sirius Signal’s flagship electronic visual distress signal device (eVDSD) as a nighttime distress signal for pleasure craft. The C-1002 — the industry’s first and only twocolor distress light approved for carriage— completely and legally replaces the need to carry marine flares and includes features that enhance its functionality to the level of an alert and notification system.

The C-1002 flashes the internationally known SOS distress signal: Three short flashes, three long flashes, three short flashes, using a two-color SOS and a separate infrared SOS flash pattern (red/ orange and cyan). The C-1002 is also Bluetoothenabled with advanced mobile app connectivity, providing an additional layer of protection and communication for recreational boaters.

For more information, visit SIRIUSSIGNAL.COM.

THOROUGHBREDBOATS.COM.

The former Goble Dry Dock and Shipyard in Oswego, New York, is being redeveloped into a new modern marina, thanks to a $1.8 million multi-phase project, anticipated to be completed in late spring 2022.

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OBIT

Viking Co-Founder Robert T. Healey, Sr. Passes Away Robert (Bob) T. Healey Sr., the co-founder of the Viking Yacht Company, who helped build the company into an industry leader and led the fight that repealed the Federal Luxury Tax on yachts in the early 1990s, passed away in December 2021 at the age of 92.

“My father was a true leader, and his vision will always guide us,” says his son, Robert Healey Jr. “He believed that the people around him — his family, friends and employees — lifted him to success and it was his obligation to leave the world a better place.”

Bob Healey Sr. and his brother Bill established Viking Yachts in 1964, and the company went on to become the largest manufacturer of sportfishing yachts in the world. But that success may have never been achieved without the determination and perseverance of Bob Healey. When a federal 10%

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

luxury tax was imposed on yachts in 1991, thousands of people were laid off and hundreds of companies went out of business. Viking nearly went bankrupt, closed a plant in Florida and laid off all but 65 of its 1,500 boat builders.

Bob was instrumental in organizing a national, grass-roots campaign to fight the tax. He took the industry lead, organizing busloads of out-of-work boat builders to converge on Capitol Hill for demonstrations, and setting fire to a boat on a barge in Narragansett Bay as a highly effective symbol of protest. The tax was repealed 20 months later in 1993.

“My uncle’s efforts to repeal the Federal Luxury Tax on yachts will never be forgotten,” says Bill’s son and Viking Yachts President and CEO Pat Healey. “He saved not only Viking but the entire marine

industry. He was the catalyst and leader, and he wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer.”

In lieu of flowers, Bob requested donations to charities supported

by The Robert T. Healey, Sr. Charitable Trust, which include the Healey International Relief Foundation (HIRF.NET) , the Healey Education Foundation (HEALEYEDFOUNDATION.ORG), and the Gleneayre Equestrian Program (GEPNJ.ORG).

OSWEGO PHOTO BY LINDADEE2006

BOATS

SCUTTLE

EVENTS

Chicago to Host 2022 Sail Grand Prix

BOATS

Godfrey Announces New Layouts For Sanpan Pontoons

Pontoon manufacturer Godfrey Marine has launched 19 all-new layouts for its 2022 model year lineup of Sanpan pontoons.

New models include the Sanpan Split Bench, Sanpan Lounge, Sanpan Windshield and Sanpan Twin. The Split Bench allows guests to stretch out and relax with bow and stern lounge seating available in 23- to 27-foot lengths complemented by co-captain’s chairs in an open-deck design. The Lounge has all-new smooth, dynamic styling in lengths from 23 and 27 feet with capacity up to 18 people. The Windshield models are available in 25- to 27-foot configurations and deliver port to starboard wind protection.

The Twin model is available in a 27-foot length, offering a ride like no other.

New design offerings include: Eye-catching accent colors made out of smooth, durable Simtex vinyl; perfectly sculpted deluxe captain and co-captain chairs with adjustable pedestals; an upgraded standard Garmin touchscreen control center that has increased from 9 to 12 inches; a non-skid inductive charging pad at the helm; as well as a captain’s cup holder that is electrically cooled.

For more information, visit GODFREY PONTOONBOATS.COM.

On June 18-19, 2022, Chicago’s Navy Pier will host the SailGP, an international sailing competition featuring high-performance F50 foiling catamarans that can reach speeds of nearly 60 mph.

Chicago will be one of eight cities recently designated by SailGP, which is returning for its third season with additional teams, more iconic cities and thrilling racing. Teams from 10 nations — including Canada, Switzerland, Australia and Japan — will kick off the season in Bermuda, followed by a home race for Jimmy Spithill’s U.S. team at Chicago’s Navy Pier.

Other SailGP race destinations include Plymouth, England (July 30-31); Copenhagen (August 19-20); and Dubai (November 11-12).

For more information, visit SAILGP.COM.

BUZZ

Tiara Yachts’ Leon Slikkers Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award

A 10-foot-tall stainless steel map of Michigan has been installed at Garfield Township Marina in Naubinway, Michigan, marking the northernmost point on Lake Michigan. For more information, visit TOPOFTHELAKE.ORG.

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Tiara Yachts’ Leon Slikkers’ passion, innovation and craftsmanship were recognized at the 2021 Boat Builder Awards, where he received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

The International Boat Industry and METSTRADE present this award to one who has played an active role in the boat building industry while serving as a strong ambassador for boating and boating culture.

“Without our father’s vision, passion and unwavering

entrepreneurial drive over many decades, this company, its rich history, and all that’s been accomplished would not have been possible,” says son Tom Slikkers, president and CEO of Tiara Yachts. “He has devoted his life to this business and the Tiara brand will continue to carry on his legacy. As a nautical legend, this is well-deserved.”

In the mid-1950s, Slikkers sold his home to raise capital to start Slickcraft Boat Company, where he built mahogany runabouts.

Tom Slikkers (left) accepting award on behalf of father Leon Slikkers

He founded his second company, S2 Yachts, in 1974, after selling Slickcraft to American Machine and Foundry in 1969. With S2 Yacht’s expansion into powerboats, Tiara Yachts was born.

For more information, visit TIAR AYACHTS.COM.

BUZZ

MBIA Announces 2022 Board of Directors, Officers The Michigan Boating Industries Association has elected four marine businesspeople to serve as directors of the state-wide, non-profit marine trade association.

Chris Anderson of Anderson Boat Sales in Waterford and Amy Crouchman of Safe Harbor – Jefferson Beach Marina in St. Clair Shores were appointed as state-wide directors; Tom Den Herder of Yacht Basin Marina in Holland was re-elected as southwest regional director; and Torre Miller of Diesel Fuel Doctor in Lansing was elected to serve as the associate director.

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Officers re-appointed for 2022 are: Tom Den Herder as chairman; Tom Ervin of Walstrom Marine in Harbor Springs as vice chair; and Jim Coburn of Coburn Consulting Company in Macomb as secretary/treasurer.

Other directors on the board who will continue to serve in 2022 include: Pete Beauregard, Jr. of Colony Marine; Rob Davis of Club Royale; Amy Krueger Malow of Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales; Chris Lisowicz of North Shore Marina; and Warren Wolf of Wolf’s Marine.

For more information, visit MBIA.ORG.

SCUTTLE

EVENTS

BOATS

Princecraft Launches Brio 2.0 Electric Pontoons

Princecraft has released a brand-new lineup of electric pontoons designed to maximize power and time on the water while offering a more sustainable footprint.

“The revamped Brio 2.0 Electric Series is consistent with our strategy to offer boaters more sustainable options without compromising comfort or luxuries of their on-water experience,” says Rodier Grondin, Princecraft president. “Every detail of the new Brio 2.0 was built around our electric propulsion systems and we are already experiencing record demand for these new innovative models.”

Three completely redesigned models, the 17, 19 and 21, will feature Torqeedo electric engines with three power options: 2.0, 4.0 and 10.0. A solar panel option will be available. Also a new, redesigned bow profile rotor cast battery box can accommodate up to four Gr.31 batteries, two 24V or one 48V Torqeedo Lithium battery, with the option to add an additional battery bank.

The new lineup is specifically designed with weight alignment and lighter construction in order to maximize power and battery life on the water, and there’s even more space onboard than before, with each model gaining 6 inches in width.

“Our new Brio Electric Series is the product of our incredible and talented team, and we are thrilled to officially launch these models in the marketplace,” Grondin continues. “We look forward to building on our positive momentum and bringing electrification solutions to the industry and our customers.”

To learn more, visit PRINCECR AFT.COM.

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Toronto International Boat Show Cancels In-Person Event for 2022 Due to pandemic-restrictions, organizers of the Toronto International Boat Show have announced that the annual event, scheduled to be held in-person on January 22-30, 2022, has been canceled. Instead, this year’s event will be held virtually, running from January 26-30.

The event was set to showcase more than 300 exhibitors, plus 250 seminars & workshops inside the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place.

A new initiative for the show was the launch of a 5,000-square-foot Boater’s Resource Centre, featuring 15 industry and government organizations.

However, the rapidly developing omicron variant and newly mandated capacity limitations at large events in Ontario meant that the in-person show could not move forward as planned.

For more information, visit TORONTOBOATSHOW.COM.

West Marine Coastal 200 Binoculars

See more clearly with the updated West Marine Coastal 200 — a durable and lightweight set of binoculars with nitrogen-purged optics to prevent fogging and BAK-4 prisms for sharp images. Binoculars are fully waterproof, and internal O-rings create a seal to ensure moisture protection. Feature multi-coated lenses for brightness in low-light conditions. Includes padded neck strap and nylon case. $219.99 AT WESTMARINE.COM

GREAT GEAR MUST-HAVE GOODIES AND GADGETS FOR EVERY BOATER

Blisslets Nausea Relief Bracelets

Knock out nausea caused by sea sickness while staying fashionable!

These stylish gold acupressure bracelets are a proven nausea remedy, providing relief in as little as 5 minutes. Can be used before or after nausea sets in. Breathable materials dry quickly after getting wet. Must be worn on both wrists for effective relief. $29.99 AT BLISSLETS.COM

Plano Weekend Series 3600 Sling Pack

This brand-new, over-the-shoulder sling allows anglers to carry just the right amount of tackle while leaving their hands free to cast and land fish. Features a large zippered main pocket and a smaller front pocket, as well as a pair of side mesh pockets to keep gear safe, organized and accessible. Adjustable single shoulder strap can be carried on the left or right shoulder. $29.99 AT PLANOMOLDING.COM

Michigan State Parks Adventure Book

ADD YOUR GEAR! Email KBUSH@

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to add your company’s new product news to Great Gear!!

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KiwiGrip Non-Skid Deck System

Tahe Beach LP2 Inflatable Kayak

The Beach LP2 is a lightweight, easy to use inflatable kayak for oneor two-person use with a maximum capacity of 330 pounds. Features a hydrodynamic hull made of durable tarpaulin, three air chambers, elevated inflatable seats and three removable fins.

The complete package fits neatly into the included carry-all backpack, together with two four-piece takeapart paddles, inflation pump and repair kit.

Plan your next adventure with the “Michigan State Parks Adventure Book.” Check out each of Michigan’s 79 protected areas that are state parks and beaches, plus two national lakeshores, and cross them off your list. Each park has a dedicated two-page spread, so you can plot your travel information, learn more about the park and catalog memories of your adventures. Features 165 pages. Book measures 8.5 by 11 inches. Made in the USA. $44.99 AT

Add some texture $699.95 AT TAHESPORT. to your COM boat’s deck with the KiwiGrip Non-Skid Deck System — a nontoxic, durable, non-skid coating that spreads quickly and easily with KiwiGrip’s proprietary Loopy Goopy Roller Cover (included). The texture can be adjusted from a rolled “pleasure boat” texture to an industrial “work boat” texture. A 1-liter can will cover about 20 square feet. Available in several colors, including black, blue, cream, gray and white. $44.99

MYNATUREBOOK ADVENTURES.COM

(1 LITER) AT DEFENDER.COM

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DON’T HESITATE TO RENOVATE B Y C A P T. F R A N K L A N I E R

Boat Warranty Basics

Four tips for clearly understanding your boat warranty. ant to make sure your new boat is covered before Murphy and his law has a chance to climb aboard? Check out these four common sense warranty tips every new boat buyer should know.

Boat warranty 101 A boat warranty is simply a manufacturer’s written promise to stand behind its product after the sale. Although required by law to state the basics (what’s covered, how long it’s covered for and how it will be corrected should problems arise), boat warranties are different from the terrestrial versions most buyers are familiar with.

TIP #1: Read the warranty before you buy Reviewing the warranty beforehand allows you to verify the warranty actually delivers the service and protection claimed by the dealer and that it does so for the entire warranty period. For example, the five-year engine warranty offered by manufacturers A and B appear identical, except B uses the term “pro-rated,” while A states its warranty is “non-declining.” It may seem like a small difference, but it’s one that could cost you big money. Pro-rated means B can reduce its liability costs for repairs over the life of the warranty. A’s non-declining warranty coverage is the same on the last day of your warranty as it is on the first, meaning coverage doesn’t decline based on engine age or use.

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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TIP #2: Don’t assume your warranty covers everything Unlike your new car, boat warranties are actually comprised of numerous warranties offered by the manufacturers of its various components. The builder, of course, warranties the hull, but buyers can receive separate warranties for most anything else, from engines to icemakers. These individual warranties can vary greatly between manufacturers (both in scope and duration) meaning you’ll want to review each carefully to see what’s covered and for how long.

Some manufacturers offer “bow to stern” warranties, a nod to the bumper to bumper coverage of the automobile industry. This means the dealer will either cover any issue that arises or coordinate warranty repairs with the various manufacturers during the all-inclusive warranty period they’re offering (typically five years). Not all such warranties

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are created equal, however, so make sure your definition of all-inclusive matches theirs.

TIP #3: Understand the claims process Start by asking the who, what, when and where questions. What’s the process for filing a warranty claim? Are there time limits on claims? Do you return to the original place of purchase for repairs or can you use any authorized service facility?

Explore gray areas or unusual circumstances that may not be clearly addressed. Can you void the warranty by doing your own maintenance? If the boat has to be returned to the builder for repair, who pays for the haul-out fees and transportation costs? That massive oil leak at the generator may be covered by the manufacturer, but who foots the bill for cleaning the bilge afterward?

When making a claim, follow the requirements as described in your policy while ensuring the entire process is properly documented. It’s OK to phone your dealer to discuss a problem and how it will be addressed, but always follow up in writing.

Paper and/or email trails are crucial, not only to confirm all parties are aware of the issue and in agreement as to how it will be resolved, but also as back-up should a legal dispute arise.

TIP #4: Clarify the rules on “transferable” warranties Builders hype the benefits of transferable warranties (those that can be passed to second owners) as a valuable selling point; however, some have more loopholes and exclusions than a signedin-blood contract with the cloven-hoofed one himself. Make sure you understand the transfer process and documentation requirements, as well as any fees or time limitations to prevent voiding this part of your warranty.

Finally, if you’re considering the purchase of an extended warranty, put on your “let’s make a deal” face before pulling out that wallet. Most manufacturers are almost always hawking some type of incentive when purchasing a new boat: Cash back, free warranty extensions, etc. Planning your purchase around such events can save you money on an extended warranty or even allow you to get it for free. Don’t be afraid to use inclusion of an extended warranty as a bargaining chip to close the sale. ★

P H O T O B Y C A P T. F R A N K L A N I E R

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SAFETY FIRST

BY HELEN AITKEN

Navigating Titles & Registration How to obtain boat and trailer titles for state registration.

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efore heading out on the water, make sure you are legal — register your vessel and trailer with the appropriate Great Lakes state agencies. Whether you own a powerboat, PWC or even vessels without motors, proof of ownership is required for registration in every state; however, the process and requirements differ. Ownership is generally determined by either a title or an insurance document. Using the Take Me Fishing website (TAKEMEFISHING.ORG/REGISTERA-BOAT), type in the state you boat in to find the requirements and how to register online.

What is a title?

A vessel’s title provides legal proof of ownership. It may be obtained from a bill of sale or a notarized statement transferring the vessel to a new owner. The transference may come from a swap/trade, payment of debt, as a gift or as a payment of service.

The title guarantees rightful ownership, especially if there’s a hidden lien from a previous owner. To ensure protection, you can do a title search through the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to get that information for as little as $7. Likewise, when a vessel is scrapped, junked or destroyed, the title/registration’s state DNR must be notified shortly thereafter and surrender the title. If a boat is retrieved and repaired by someone unscrupulous, it may be traced; a savvy buyer should take note of a vessel without a title.

A vessel may be in your possession but you may not own it. For instance, a lender or bank may own the title while you make payments. Once the vessel is paid for in full, the title is transferred to the owner.

HELEN AITKEN is a boating writer, photographer and former science educator from eastern North Carolina.

She loves classic wooden boats, is an America’s Boating Club member and plays in the Intracoastal Waterway.

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Vessel warranty A warranty is a promise that the title is clear with no claims (like a loan or lien) so the buyer is protected, but the seller is liable. However, if the sale is made without a warranty, the buyer takes responsibility if a claim arises after the sale. To avoid problems getting a title and registration, handle the sale legally with a bill of sale transferring ownership and a warranty on the boat.

Missing title?

Perhaps the title is lost or nonexistent for older boats. For example, in Wisconsin, boats built before 1988 didn’t get a title on the purchase date, while

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in New York, it was before 1987. An attorney may need to do research and prepare a bill of sale for the title application.

A title application includes proof of ownership, the seller’s information, and vessel data for the state agency handling boat registrations. Expect a title fee or a replacement title fee. The trailer might need a title as well.

Registration requirements and numbers Vessels over a specific length are registered with the state in which they reside; additional state laws and regulations now apply. The registration fee, or “contribution,” varies by state, with the funds being used for projects like maintaining clean waterways.

Additionally, if you boat in another state for part of the year, it may also require a registration.

Registration renewals also differ; for example, Indiana has yearly renewals, while Pennsylvania’s registration lasts for two years.

Once a vessel is registered, a number is provided and a sticker is issued. Purchase large registration stickers online and display them as designated on both sides of the hull beside the official registration sticker. The small sticker gets replaced when it’s renewed, similar to registration on a vehicle’s license plate. The registration paperwork should remain onboard while the vessel is occupied. Taking a photograph with your cell phone may qualify, but check with your state to confirm.

What about trailers?

Each state is different, but first, the towing vehicle must have a title. A used trailer needs the seller’s information on the back of a notarized title, but the dealer handles it if it’s new. Contact your state’s DNR or SOS for clarification. For example, Pennsylvania’s DMV requires that trailer owners have a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), current Pennsylvania driver’s license and license plate, insurance and safety inspection sticker, and that fees have been paid for the title and registration. If the VIN is missing, illegible or doesn’t match the owner’s paperwork, an application for a replacement is in order — contact the Department of Transportation. Like vessel registration renewals, begin trailer registration renewals about 60 days in advance. ★

ELECTRONICS

BY GLENN HAYES

New Boat, New Electronics

Get your desired electronics installed on your new boat.

S Top: A Lowrance Elite FS 9 multifunction display.

Middle: One of many complete but simple multifunction displays, the Garmin Echomap UHD 94sv chartplotter and fishfinder.

Bottom: A very wellequipped helm (left) and a nice, clean, well-laid-out helm (right).

o, you decided to buy a new boat. Congratulations!

But before signing on the dotted line, think about the electronics onboard and how they can help make that time afloat even better and more relaxing. With a little forethought and planning, you can save money and end up with exactly the system you want and need.

Some new boats will come bare, meaning they have little or no electronics aboard and the console or helm is a blank canvas. Some will have some electronics installed at the factory or at the dealership prior to being put up for sale. If there are electronics already installed, you can add to them or negotiate to replace them with something of your liking. With any of these scenarios, you have the choice of having your dealer install electronics, or having an independent electronics installer do the job. There are advantages to both, and you need to weigh which option is best for you.

Independent installers The other option is to go through an independent installer. Some will allow you to purchase your own electronics with them installing it. Beware if you decide to go this route that if there are any warranty issues, you may be on your own in having to deal with it. Other installers will insist they obtain the equipment and handle the installation. Either way, make sure your installer has good references and is experienced. NMEA and ABYC certifications are a good indication that they are knowledgeable in their field. Those that are certified will generally have experience in a wide range of manufacturers, products and systems and can bring that knowledge to customize and integrate systems and brands that otherwise might not be available through a dealer.

These folks are always a good option to add and customize equipment down the road as you learn your new boat and its quirks.

Selecting equipment Selecting what electronics to have onboard is also an important decision. “Standard equipment” on most boats today includes a chartplotter and fishfinder/sounder combination. These multifunction displays will show electronic charts and various forms of depth and sounder images.

If you are not stuck with a pre-installed display,

PHOTOS BY GLENN HAYES

Dealer install Having the dealer set up the electronics means you have a single point of contact for any warranty and service issues with your new boat. And should you need updates or additions to your system, the dealer knows both the electronics and the boat. The dealer is intimately familiar with the boat and where and how best to install and wire the system for your model of boat. Some dealers even have loaner units available should your electronics need to be sent back to the manufacturer for warranty service. While dealer prices on individual electronics can be higher than a local big box store, negotiating as part of a new boat

package is sometimes possible, bringing prices down and still receiving all the benefits of a dealer install.

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do some research. If you can, push buttons and play with different models to get a feel for what works for you. By doing so, and speaking with knowledgeable sales staff, you can learn the equipment’s limitations. There are a bevy of YouTube videos out there that show the different models in action and instructional videos on how to use them. Look at those videos, or play with one at the dealership to see if it’s what you want.

Take a close look at the charting and make sure it’s sufficient for your boating area. If not, are there electronic chart cards that you can add for more features and good cartography? Decide if you want a simple unit without a lot of bells and whistles or a more sophisticated unit that you can add features and multiple displays to. Do you want one large display or maybe two smaller units networked together at the helm? Is there a remote station that you would like to have a networked display? Can the models offered have those expansion capabilities? Many displays also allow the expansion of the sounder features with the addition of a sonar module (black box) and an additional transducer. Forward scan, 3D, enhanced

A typical electronics package for a new boat.

bottom images and live active sonar imaging are all possible additions with some units. If you want any of these, it may be a good idea to have them installed before delivery of your new boat, that way you can enjoy them from day one. Also, don’t forget to add a VHF radio and some form of satellite beacon, such as a PLB or EPIRB. No matter what electronics you end up with on your new boat, don’t settle with what is offered unless that works well for your application. A little research, knowledge and negotiation will help make those days afloat in your pride and joy even more pleasurable. ★

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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BENEATH THE SURFACE B Y H E AT H E R S T E I N B E R G E R

Cultivating the Dream Team

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t one of my favorite restaurants, a sign on the wall reads, “Please be patient with our staffing shortage… it’s the new pandemic.”

That likely resonates with all of us. We see “Help Wanted” signs at businesses across our communities, we read news articles about labor shortages in every industry, and we experience unfortunate closures and suspended services on a daily basis. The Great Resignation is a real thing.

Are boating businesses suffering as well? Yes and no. Certainly staffing shortages exist, but in the marine industry, attracting and retaining a skilled workforce has always been a bit of a challenge.

That gave the industry a framework from which to build when COVID-19 hit. While others struggled to find their footing, this one kept calm and carried on.

(Below and opposite page, top image) Apprentices at Irish Boat Shop learn about marine batteries.

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Building a lasting career “Technically, skilled labor shortages are nothing new,” says Laura Kohler, Irish Boat Shop’s human resources manager. “When I was hired five years ago, the need for a more formalized training program was one of the first things we talked about.”

Kohler observes that the marine industry traditionally has done a good job of training people from the ground up, but not in a formalized way.

At Irish Boat Shop, one recent retiree had been with the company for 49 years; one of the current employees started at age 18 and is now 40.

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“Once they’re with us, people tend to stay,” she says. “But we needed a shot in the arm. A local ironworks place started its own school here in northern Michigan, and I thought, ‘That’s awesome! Let’s do that.’”

In 2019, Irish Boat Shop began its Marine Technician Apprenticeship program in Charlevoix and Harbor Springs, Michigan, two of its three locations. Now heading into its fourth season, the two-year program incorporates classroom, reading and on-the-job components that are designed to give each apprentice the professional knowledge and skills they need to build a lasting career as a marine technician.

“We do everything you can think of on boats, so apprentices are introduced to a vast number of skills,” Kohler says. With a chuckle, she adds, “Originally we had a checklist to formalize the process, but we quickly learned that did not work.

We got rid of it eight months in.”

Irish Boat Shop replaced the checklist with a core competency list, and paired each apprentice with a mentor-technician in each competency area.

It also added a weekly meeting with the mentor, apprentice and service manager.

“That made a huge difference,” she says.

“It provided the consistency we needed. The apprentices have better focus and they learn more when they take the time they need, rather than rushing to check skills off a list.”

In their first year, apprentices are exposed to all aspects of Irish Boat Shop’s work in all four seasons.

They spend a few weeks in each core competency area, and their role is to learn, listen and be the best helper they can be. Then, in the second year, they can dive into their preferred area of interest.

“They have more confidence at that point, and they can stay in an area where they excel rather than bouncing around,” Kohler says.

The current format of the apprenticeship program also allows Irish Boat Shop’s management to ascertain who is doing well and who is not. As she notes, not everyone is meant for this profession.

“We can identify and see that quickly, which is a good thing,” she says. “Apprenticeships require a

B AT T E R Y P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F I R I S H B OAT S H O P ; T W O H E A D S H O T S C O U R T E S Y O F MERCURY MARINE

Marine businesses large and small are bringing up the next generation of specialists through robust apprenticeship programs.

lot of resources, so we want to focus our time and energy on those who will excel.”

Current applicants are a mix of young people and those seeking to change their careers. According to Kohler, Irish Boat Shop isn’t seeing a lot of local interest; rather, applications for the two available spots at each location are coming from people who want to move to these popular vacation destinations.

“That can be hit or miss,” she says. “We need to get more local people, so our goal is to get into the schools this year. We want to reach those kids who want to stay in northern Michigan and to pursue hands-on work rather than university.

These are the kids who are already tinkering with dirt bikes, PWCs and snowmobiles. They need to know that we will pay for their education and help them build a viable career.”

Preparing the next generation Mercury Marine started its apprenticeship program in the 1970s. After the Great Recession, the company revitalized the program during labor negotiations, and it now offers 25-30 new apprenticeships each year.

The apprenticeships are three- to four-year programs, depending on the specific trade.

Apprentices can pursue careers as tool and die makers, pattern makers, maintenance mechanics, maintenance electricians, die maintenance technicians, industrial painters, furnace maintenance mechanics, tool and cutter grinders, mechanic specialists and display carpenters.

“They attend school one day per week for two semesters per year, and they have a designated hour requirement for on-the-job training,” says

Andres Gonzalez, Mercury Marine’s vice president of human resources. “We have a defined review process to ensure apprentices are staying on track.”

Like Irish Boat Shop, Mercury has a mix of young and older applicants; however, its apprenticeships are largely filled with existing employees who seek to improve their knowledge and skill sets. And Gonzalez reports that more women are entering these skilled trades.

“Almost 50% of our hourly assembly workers in our outboard facility are women,” he says.

“Attracting more women continues to be a focus for us going forward.”

Mercury is also setting its sights on high school students. This past year, the company shared information about job openings and starting pay rates that teachers could share with graduating seniors.

Locally, Mercury is also working with the nonprofit cooperative educational service agency CESA6, Envision Greater Fond du Lac, and a variety of school representatives so it can share information about youth apprenticeships in manufacturing. These assembling and machining opportunities are coming in summer 2022.

“We have some speaking arrangements on the calendar already, and we will be adding others in early 2022 at the various local high schools, including Fond du Lac HS, Saint Mary Springs and North Fond du Lac,” Gonzalez says. “We’re also scheduled to participate in mock interviews in March to help prepare students for youth apprenticeships and other interviews they have coming up.”

For more information, visit IRISHBOATSHOP.COM and MERCURYMARINE.COM. ★

(Two above photos) Two apprentices at Mercury Marine.

HEATHER STEINBERGER is an award-winning writer/editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 20 years.

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BOAT SPOTLIGHT

BY KEN KREISLER

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 48’11” Beam: 14’10” Fuel Capacity: 422.68 gals.

Water Capacity: 140 gals.

Max Power: 2 x Volvo Penta D6-IPS650 MSRP: Contact dealer ABSOLUTEYACHTS.COM

DEALER Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales Chicago, IL; St. Clair Shores, MI; Holland, MI; Grand Haven, MI; Charlevoix, MI; Spring Lake, MI; Marblehead, OH JBYS.COM

Watch the video at

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Absolute 48 Coupé Coupe to go.

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ith a highly recognizable bold, contemporary exterior, the Absolute 48 Coupé’s interior is also a statement-maker, offering a spectacular design with wide-open vistas topsides as well as in the accommodations below.

“Absolute does an amazing job bringing the outside in with their cabin volume and incredible window sizes,” says Amy Krueger, president of Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales.

The main deck aft features a glass transom and a comfortable, practical cockpit with seating arrangements easily reconfigured to your needs. This space is perfect for relaxing while underway, enjoying a mid-cruise meal or a more elegant alfresco dinner.

“With no fixed furniture, the cockpit has endless configuration possibilities, and the glass transom creates a seamless experience with the water and view around,” Krueger adds.

A pair of glass doors leads into the salon and the

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amidships, fully found galley. Forward there are seating areas to port and starboard, all surrounded by electrically operated wide windows. The lower helm is to starboard with an under-glass breaker panel just opposite. The overhead, easily exposed via a manually operated shade, is equipped with solar panels. A walkaround deck affords access to the bow lounge area.

Head to the three-stateroom, two-head layout via a centerline salon stairway, where wide-open, elegant spaces are found with plenty of storage room for extended time away.

The Absolute 48 Coupé is a Class B yacht, meaning she has been built to navigate in offshore waters up to 200 miles and can sustain strong winds and waves. While you would never choose to go out in bad weather, it’s comforting to know you are aboard a well-designed vessel that can handle the rough stuff. ★

BOAT SPOTLIGHT

BY KEN KREISLER

Barletta Corsa 23UC

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 25’ Beam: 8′6” Draft: 12”/15” Dry Weight (tritoon): 3,640 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 48 gals.

Max Power: 350 hp MSRP: $125,425

Ultra likable.

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porty, aggressive profile. Sleek, colorful exterior lines. High performance. Choice of floor plans. You are correct in your assumptions that the Barletta Corsa 23UC is the subject of these observations and, upon closer inspection, will be most pleasantly surprised at what you discover.

“Barletta is making some of the best built pontoon boats in the market today, sourcing quality materials and putting them into a very thoughtfully designed boat that you and your family can use for years and years,” says Betsey Arvai of SkipperBud’s.

Available in both two- and three-tube models, and with a list of standard features, such as a co-captain chair to port, a powered Bimini top, a 20-inch transom, an aft swim deck, a raised helm platform, a stow-away table, a Hertz marine stereo system, not to mention a host of optional equipment and packages, the 23UC allows boaters to make a personal statement of ownership. And with 14 Mercury

outboard engine options up to a 350-hp Verado or 12 Yamaha engines up to a F300XFB with integrated steering to choose from, you will get the kind of excitement you are looking for.

Combine all this with Barletta’s superior construction, which includes reinforced stern tubes for additional support, a full-length solid keel, vibration isolation pad technology, hybrid crossmember configuration and combination box, and I-beam and C-channel techniques. All this makes for a sturdy, strong and safe boat for you, the family and guests.

“Luxurious, easy to maneuver and safe, these high-performance boats coming out of the Barletta Boats factory today will exceed any preconceived ideas you had about pontoon boats of the past,” Arvai says.

People-friendly, pet-friendly, good times-friendly, the Barletta Corsa 23UC will fit your boating lifestyle, as well as enhance it. ★

BARLETTAPONTOON BOATS.COM

DEALERS SkipperBud’s

SKIPPERBUDS.COM

Spring Brook Marina

SPRINGBROOKMARINA.COM

Action Water Sports ACTIONWATER.COM

Watch the video at

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BOAT SPOTLIGHT

BY KEN KREISLER

Blackfin 232DC

SPECIFICATIONS LOA (w/ engines): 24’6” Beam: 8’6” Fuel Capacity: 92 gals.

Max Power: 300-hp Mercury outboard MSRP (starting at): $113,593

There is a difference.

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BLACKFINBOATS.COM

DEALERS Grand Pointe Marina

GRANDPOINTEMARINA.COM

Pier 53 Marine

PIER53MARINE.COM

River Valley Power & Sport

RIVERVALLEYPOWER ANDSPORT.COM

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ince 1973, Blackfin Boats has garnered a well-deserved reputation for bridging the gap between fishing and leisure boating. And the new 232DC is a perfect example of how the company offers the best of both worlds to its discerning owners.

“The crossover design provides the versatility you need to satisfy all of your on-the-water needs,” says Rene Moore, brand manager for Blackfin.

And, after one look around this boat, you too will be convinced. The 232DC can easily go from family activities to no-nonsense fishing thanks to its dual console design and Blackfin’s excellent use of space. To that end she offers fully bolstered U-shaped bow seating and a comfortable transom bench seat. Access forward and aft is safe and easy via a wide, centerline walkway, and the Bimini top is standard. The starboard side helm is super driver-friendly with a compact design offering effortless and safe operation of all systems.

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“The Blackfin 232DC is the perfect vessel for family boaters or anglers alike,” Moore adds.

On the fishing end — and part of the numerous items that make up the standard package — is an 18-gallon baitwell, a 45-quart carry-on Yeti cooler, a Fusion satellite stereo system, a raw water washdown, four stainless gunwale rod holders and another three that are transom-mounted, all riding on the advanced carbon fiber Blackfin hull. Premium options include a battery charger, a bow filler cushion and a casting platform along with a removable table, Garmin electronics, and trim tabs with indicator and auto-retract, among a long list of others.

Single Mercury four-stroke engine options include 225 hp up to a maximum of 300 hp.

The Blackfin 232DC represents the very best of Blackfin style, design, versatility and performance. ★

BOAT SPOTLIGHT

BY KEN KREISLER

Mag Bay 42 All in the family.

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he Howarth legacy began back in 1969 and continued right through until 1990, when the family enterprise launched the first Cabo yacht. And with the father and son now teaming up with Michael Peters Design for its Mag Bay 42, its sportfish/express hardtop legacy is raised to new levels.

“When we heard about their new company, we jumped at the opportunity to represent them.

The 42 Hardtop Express is the perfect fishing or cruising boat for our Great Lakes market,” says Brent Reed of Reed Yacht Sales.

Offering a striking, head-turning profile, the Mag Bay 42 is both a serious fishing machine as well as a family oriented cruiser. For the tight-lines enthusiast you will find round coamings in the gunwales for those times when you are up against it with a big fish. There are a pair of oversized insulated fishboxes in the deck, each

with its own macerator, and an 80-gallon livewell aft on the transom. The mezzanine takes full advantage of her 15-foot, 6-inch beam offering lots of storage space.

Performance is provided by a pair of top-ofthe-line Volvo D13 1,000-hp engines with standard 13.5kW Onan genset and a Seakeeper 6 gyro stabilizer. The well-thought-out helm offers a trio of Release chairs, a sunroof and a day engine room hatch. A pair of 24-inch Garmin touchscreens presents all releva nt information and a separate compartment holds all of your switches.

Comfort abounds below decks with a well-laid-out design featuring a full galley with plenty of storage, a full head and a queen forepeak berth.

“For the discerning yachtsman seeking a sport fisher built with only the finest components, Mag Bay has simplified the search,” Reed says. ★

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 42’6″ Beam: 15’6″ Draft: 4’ Weight: 43,500 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 665 gals.

Water Capacity: 125 gals.

Base Power: 2 x Volvo D13, 1,000-hp MSRP: $1,345,000 MAGBAY YACHTS.COM

DEALER Reed Yacht Sales

REEDYACHTSALES.COM

Watch the video at

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BOAT TEST

MARLOW 70E MKII Having it your way. S T O R Y & P H O T O S B Y C A P T . T O M S E R I O

I

f you Google the word “customize,” the first definition that appears is to “modify (something) to suit a particular individual or task.” In that case, when you apply customization to a yacht, it should reflect what an owner wants due to their taste or cruising needs.

Some boatbuilders will let you “customize” your new yacht if it can be done within their limitations.

Understand that no yacht builder is going to change the hull shape or significantly modify bulkheads for obvious reasons, but customization needs to be more than just picking out fabrics, bedding and hull color. Why get shoehorned into what a builder wants to sell. Like Henry Ford used to say, and I’ll paraphrase, “You can have a Model T in any color as long as it’s black.”

Enter the new 2022 Marlow Yachts 70E MKII. This second-generation (MKII) model was introduced a couple of years ago, although this 70E is a unique setup that exemplifies the ability and desire for the Marlow team to deliver what the prospective owner wants and needs. It truly is customized beyond standard features to accommodate the owner’s specific requirements, as this yacht will be extensively cruised.

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FIT FOR PURPOSE

I don’t recall ever seeing a build spec sheet with so many items marked “Upgraded, Upgraded, Custom, Custom….” You get the idea. And here’s the need: The owners enthusiastically told me they plan to “Cruise a great deal!” This is not a weekender yacht, or one destined to do the east coast “milk run” from Florida to New England and back, but she could easily.

No, the list of destinations for this couple is to check out the Bahamas and Caribbean, then head to the Panama Canal for some U.S. west coast cruising. Next stop, Alaska for the summer then back to California for provisioning before heading across the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii. While in that part of the world, they plan a jump to Christmas Island and the islands of Fiji. From there, it’s anyone’s guess. These owners like to cruise without a calendar, as “It can be restricting or force us to travel on bad weather days.”

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This itinerary is not for the faint of heart, but for a seasoned yachtsman (and woman!) who are great planners and know what they want. With an extensive spreadsheet of yachting needs and desires they compiled over the years, this couple got just what they wanted.

When asked about customizing their new 70E, the owners said it’s about redundancies. “Two is one, one is none,” referring to the old adage about having a backup, be it plans or parts or safety items.

COMFORTS ABOUND

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 82’4” Beam: 19’8” Draft: 5’ Displacement: 125,000 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 3,700 gals.

Water Capacity: 350 gals.

Power: 2 x MAN V8 1,200-hp diesel engines Price: Contact Marlow MARLOW YACHTS.COM

Having added systems didn’t mean they had to sell out on creature comforts. Designed for three staterooms with three heads, the midship owner’s cabin is full beam (19 feet, 8 inches) with a king berth, Jack/Jill private heads with a large center shower stall and tons of room. Opting for more storage space for clothing, there are full port and starboard drawers, closets and lockers. While many yachts have a desk in the main cabin, the owner had a custom office built into the aft of the command bridge. Why get stuck below when you can be anywhere else in the yacht?

Adding to the accommodations is a twin bunk guest stateroom and a forward VIP, both with heads with shower stalls, storage and TVs. Below the flooring is a mechanical room with hot water heaters (in close proximity to the showers for fast hot water), pumps and more storage space.

Two full-length sofas covered in white Ultraleather fill out the custom salon, complemented by a custom teak coffee table with two ottomans featuring cushioned tops that flip to trays and storage in the bases. A hide-away 65-inch LED TV has a satellite connection. The aft deck offers a swim platform and side boarding gates, a large teak dining table and a transom bench. The foredeck sports a Portuguese bridge with access doors from the side decks and a center seat that doubles as fender storage.

Operation is from the fully enclosed command bridge, appointed with a separate office and day head.

With long-range cruising comes nighttime travel. To keep the owners in close proximity, the teak table lowers to become a berth, so help is just a pillow throw away.

An extensive array of Garmin navigation electronics will guide the way while the custom lighting package with white, red and blue lights keeps the night vision sharp.

Three hydraulic crash pumps are at the ready, able to ship 240 GPM overboard in an emergency.

When asked why choose a glass hull versus steel, the owners related to the safe design but also that “We will be cruising in warm weather and waters” so they’re not concerned about ice.

COOK AND THEY WILL COME

For extensive cruising, there will be a lot of time spent on the hook, so meal prep is mandatory and a working galley is essential. The forward galley runs along the starboard side with a logical layout. Prep and wash food at the modular sink station, move to the stovetop with pot holders, and plate on the aft counter with undercounter fridge/freezer drawers (six total). The center island is amply sized and topped with customer-chosen granite countertops. Appliances are upgraded, including the

DEALER Marlow Marine Sales 800-362-2657 MARLOWMARINE.COM

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overhead microwave, lower oven, two dishwashers and pantry space everywhere. Note that all cabinets have pull-out shelves to reach items in the back.

Forward is an L-settee with teak table nestled under the forward windshield. Side windows and a port deck door add light and offer access for provisioning or grabbing forward docklines.

As for docklines, “He” handles those when docking as “She” is on the controls when pulling into slips.

Having seven boats together over 20 years (including a Marlow 62 for five years) — him with a captain’s license and she is getting hers — this couple knows what they are getting into but, more importantly, what they have.

LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT

“We got on a Marlow yacht at the 2005 St. Petersburg boat show and we fell in love,” he says.

They did their homework and checked out all the other brands, but always compared them to Marlows.

Impressed with the fine craftsmanship within the structure, joinery, wood finish and overall style, there was more than one could see.

“The Kevlar construction and the strut keels were big selling points — very safe”, he adds. To note, Marlow uses their own patented Velocijet Strut Keels that not only protect the propellers but encase the twin shafts and reduce drag.

Planning to cross some big water, the owners wanted a few more upgrades and custom items. Fuel capacity was increased to a usable 3,700 gallons, thanks to the custom fiberglass tanks. Twin MAN V8 diesel engines deliver 1,200 hp each and showed me a 25.6 knot wide open speed (this before final commissioning and tuning).

Dial back to 8 knots and the 70E delivers 3,000 nm range, plenty to cover an open ocean crossing with fuel to spare. Making it easy for oil changes, Marlow custombuilt two 55-gallon containers for fresh oil and used oil.

No more lugging jugs in and out of the engine room, as oil changes can be done as needed, anywhere.

Able to get around the engines for fuel filters and ancillary system access, there’s plenty of room for the twin upgraded 24kW Kohler generators, an upgraded Fireboy fire and safety control system (yes, alert strobes and sirens included), and Yacht Controller remote engine controls. Stability and control is from the custom hydraulic ABT TRAC system with oversized stabilizer fins, 50-hp bow and stern thrusters, and windlass.

There’s nothing better for a builder than when a client espouses the virtues of their yacht.

“It was such a positive experience through the build process. The Marlow is an exceptional value for the buck. We would buy another!” H

Customized features from draw latches to diesel heaters for cabin warmth.

Beautiful oyster white hull and superstructure.

Storage room on aft deck for fenders, lines and cleaning gear.

Good sized crew quarters for two that can also be used for storage.

Velvety soft ride.

On a customized yacht, they are hard to find.

To each his own

While at the Marlow Yachts commissioning yard in Snead Island, Florida, I saw two additional new 70E sisterships, each customized for their owners. One had an open flybridge setup with a hard forward windshield and an integrated hardtop along with a lower traditional helm. The other, built for a European customer, had a smaller galley, enclosed command bridge and 220V service. Both yachts were fitted with the 1,800-hp Caterpillar C32 engines, capable of 30-plus knots.

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BOAT TEST

Aspen C90

Note: Image pictured is of the Aspen C100

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASPEN

Great for the Great Lakes.

A

by Arnie Hammerman

spen builds power PROA catamarans that combine rugged construction, finely finished interiors and pleasant accommodations with a unique ultra-efficient smooth riding hull form. After selling Glacier Bay, which he previously founded, Larry Graf designed and patented a unique PROA cat hull and launched Aspen Power Catamarans.

Each hull has a similar exterior shape and length, but one is 35% thinner, meaning there’s less resistance and it requires less power. Models like the C90 and C100 use a single inboard diesel.

The larger hull houses the engine, a keel, prop and rudder while the other is unencumbered.

Propulsion on one side doesn’t make the boat turn, as hydrodynamics ensure straight tracking.

The narrow entry of the hulls slices easily through the water, providing smooth, even acceleration and top speeds nearing 25 mph, even though they don’t plane. Fuel efficiency and stability are added benefits, giving Aspens good range and sea-keeping abilities. To prove it, Larry and his son, Nick, took an Aspen C90 664 miles around Vancouver Island, unrefueled. They averaged 13.6 mph, burned 267 gallons of diesel (with expedition tanks) and completed the journey in 47 hours.

When driving an Aspen, the slippery nature of the hulls is apparent, as they make little wake and coast slightly with pulled-back throttles. Underway you can barely tell each hull is different, they track evenly in both directions, although slightly different trim tab settings work best.

Having grown up boating on Lake Michigan, I wondered how Aspens would do in the Great Lakes, where tighter wave periods, the density of freshwater and rapidly changing weather affect boating. I contacted some Aspen owners in the Midwest to find out how the unique design of Aspen Power Catamarans works for them in the Great Lakes.

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Fits the equation

Note: Image pictured is of the Aspen C100

Graceful (left) and Sea Tiger (right)

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Jeff and Joanne purchased their Aspen C90 Sea Tiger in 2020. The C90 has the same configuration as the C100, except the latter has a hull and deck 4 feet longer in the cockpit.

Jeff now has two seasons of cruising under his belt; however, when he first bought the boat, he was a relative newcomer to recreational boating.

His previous boating experience was aboard a Navy submarine in his youth, after which he became an engineer and analyst.

All of this contributes to his amazingly methodical, detailed approach to boating. Before he purchased the Aspen, he developed a set of criteria to match prospective boats to his aspirations of one day completing the Great Loop. Fuel efficiency, speed and displacement meant diesel power. He also required a boat with modest draft, bridge clearance under 19.5 feet and one that could be easily single-handed.

Other important factors were creature comforts because he planned to spend long periods aboard the boat.

When Jeff entered Aspen into his spreadsheet, he had a winner; the C90 has everything he wanted, including sturdy construction, quality systems and comfortable accommodations. His Aspen has a roomy salon, a fully appointed galley, two sleeping cabins and a head with a shower.

Concerned about close quarter handling, he found that the Aspen is highly maneuverable. To back into a narrow slip, he turns the rudder then easily backs and fills with small bursts of the bow and stern thrusters.

Jeff’s meticulous analysis of boating and cruising is impressive. He analyzes weather patterns using a variety of data and apps, creating a “Go vs.

No Go Chart” to help plan passages by predicting conditions. This is particularly important for lake crossings, as it ensures the safety and comfort of the vessel and occupants. Avoiding bad conditions is important but, eventually, we all get caught in weather.

I asked Jeff how the Aspen handled extreme conditions. Sea Tiger is based in Michigan on Lake St. Clair, which means he often traverses either the St. Clair River north to Lake Huron or the Detroit River south to Lake Erie. Cruising north, he described a passage under the Bluewater Bridge near Sarnia.

The river bends sharply, with one side U.S. and the other Canada.

This passage is heavily trafficked by large commercial vessels, and Jeff relates how the AIS system on his Garmin MFD keeps track of them when he can’t see around bends.

A funneling effect creates currents reaching 6 knots, and wind against the current means steep chop. In the strong eddies, even large trawlers get thrown around, but the higher

speed and ample rudder of the Aspen keep him on track. Running at 15-20 mph, the stability of the cat helps him cut through the waves and maintain safe passage. Small boats often fish the channels near bridges, and because the Aspen throws little wake, Jeff keeps power on for better control without endangering them.

In steep 7- to 8-foot waves at a 3- to 4-second period, he found angling the boat to the waves and tacking at 45 degrees improved the motion and allowed the Aspen to crest the waves, cutting through them and gliding down the backs without undue slapping. The Aspen’s tunnel is designed to cut through waves, and the tacking technique is only necessary when things get extreme. Jeff says that the formidable construction of the Aspen is apparent in adverse conditions as the boat feels solid and remains controlled.

Jeff enjoys that his Aspen outperforms other boats. When running 95 miles in Lake Huron from Port Sanilac to Harrisville, he averaged 7.2 gph cruising into head seas at around 20 mph (3400 RPM) and soundly beat another boat on the same leg. Jeff plans to extend his exploration by heading further into Canadian waters, which will hopefully remain open next summer. Georgian Bay, the North Channel and Sault Ste. Marie are on his list, with the Great Loop still on the horizon.

Winning over buyers

Owners of the Aspen C90 Graceful, Laurent and Erica, chose Aspen for several pragmatic reasons. Erica (Laurent admits it is her boat) was skeptical at first about catamarans, but a few things won her over. Visibility from the helm and the salon is excellent, even for someone of her short stature. The stability in Aspen’s 10-foot beam means it does not roll like other boats, which they and their dog, OB, appreciate.

Both owners like the king-size bed, which is not a V-berth, and that the head is outside the owner’s suite; the C90 head can be accessed from the salon so guests don’t enter their cabin.

As avid land campers, they like the amenities, storage and utility of the boat. Efficiency, performance and the ability to haul the boat themselves on the trailer all are important. Laurent and Erica plan to cruise further east on Lake Erie next summer and possibly through the canals as far as Rochester on Lake Ontario.

Input from enthusiastic Aspen owners I spoke with confirmed that Aspen Power Catamarans work well in the Great Lakes. The Aspen C90 combines the performance and efficiency of its PROA cat design with the kinds of amenities boaters want. In addition, the boat’s stability and toughness allows it to travel safely, even in the occasionally challenging Great Lakes conditions. ★

Note: Image pictured is of the Aspen C100

Aspen C90 S P E C I F I CATI ON S LOA: 30’5″ Beam: 10′ Draft (1/2 tanks): 33” Dry Weight: 7,900 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 80 gals.

Water Capacity: 50 gals.

Std. Power: Volvo Penta D3 220-hp Base Price: Contact Aspen ASPENPOWERCATAMAR ANS.COM

CO N TAC T Aspen Power Catamarans Office 360-668-4347

INFO@ASPENPOWERCATAMAR ANS.COM

Efficient performance/range.

Good stability even in rough conditions.

Trailerable; however, with a 10-foot beam, wide load restrictions apply.

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the fact that its owners expected the ship to provide many years of service plying the lake.

In spite of her considerable size, Atlantic turned out to be a surprisingly fast ship, typically completing the Buffalo to Detroit run in somewhere around 18 hours. Considering the speed record for that route was not much less — just 16.5 hours, a mark set by Atlantic herself in 1851 — the vessel enjoyed a well-deserved reputation as one of the speediest vessels on the Great Lakes.

But speed records could hardly have been top of mind for Atlantic’s crew on the afternoon of August 19, 1852, as the ship commenced boarding in Buffalo under the command of Captain J. Byron Pettey. Even for the lax standards of the day, this was a heavy load; every cabin was full and the belowdecks immigrant class was jam-packed, leaving an additional 250 or so passengers — most of them Norwegian, German and Irish settlers headed west to the promise of a better life — with no alternative but to huddle out in the open on the main deck.

PHOTOS PUBLIC DOMAIN

T

he bottom of the Great Lakes is littered with shipwrecks, some vessels lost to horrendous storms, others to unseen shoals. Yet among them, one tragedy stands out — not just for its appalling loss of life, but because those losses can be directly attributed to a near total absence of anything resembling modern safety standards.

Launched in 1848 for the Michigan Central Railroad, the 1,155-ton side-wheel paddle steamer Atlantic was a big ship for its day, stretching 267 feet in overall length and riding on a substantial beam of 33 feet. Designed to ferry both passengers and cargo on the lucrative run between Buffalo and Detroit, Atlantic was a well-built vessel, constructed with 85 comfortable staterooms. The design also included high-density accommodation below, in what was unofficially referred to as the immigrant class. In all, Atlantic was built to carry up to around 300 people, plus cargo.

At the time of its launch, Atlantic was valued at $110,000 — an enormous sum in its day, and one which reflected

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Tragedy of the Atlantic

In an era when shipwrecks were regular occurrences and safety standards non-existent, a collision on Lake Erie with a staggering death toll laid the foundation for new safety protocols that protect mariners to this day.

by Craig Ritchie

Beyond the heavy load reducing its speed, Atlantic was not doing the run straight through on this day, but making an additional stop in Erie, Pennsylvania, to take on even more passengers and freight and earn the maximum possible profit for its owners.

Surely at least some of the people among the swarm of passengers waiting in Erie that evening must have recognized that Atlantic was already seriously overloaded when it arrived at the dock, lowered its gangplank, and not a single person disembarked. Yet dozens more piled on, oblivious to the obvious. In keeping with the standard practice of the day, no passenger manifest was filed with the harbormaster and, as a result, we will never know exactly how many people were aboard Atlantic as it prepared to depart for Detroit that night. Estimates run from between 500 and 600 people, on a boat designed for half that number. What is known is that at least 70 people had to be left behind on the dock in Erie after the

vessel was so fully jammed with bodies that the crew had difficulty retracting the gangway.

Onboard Atlantic, baggage was piled everywhere on deck, and the newly embarked passengers stood wherever they could — on top of luggage cases, on the roof of Atlantic’s cabins, even atop the uppermost hurricane deck. The passengers left behind on the dock may not have appreciated it at the time, but missing that boat was the best thing that ever happened to them.

Like ships passing in the night

With no moon, the night of August 19 was very dark and Lake Erie as flat as glass when Atlantic rounded the lights at Presque Isle shortly before midnight and sailed into the open water, making for the mid-lake shipping lanes. About 45 minutes later, the vessel entered a bank of fog — a common occurrence in late summer, as bands of cool night air condensed above the warmer lake surface.

As the passengers exposed to the elements on Atlantic’s

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open decks settled in for a clammy night, the propellerdriven cargo steamer Ogdensburg was also powering through the mid-lake fog, sailing eastbound for the Welland Canal with a load of wheat. As the ship approached Long Point, First Mate Degrass McNeil spotted a small cluster of lights begin to materialize through the haze off his starboard bow. The patchy fog made it difficult to estimate their distance, but based on the spacing between the lights, McNeil guessed three miles. Studying them for a few moments longer to gauge their speed and heading, McNeil determined that although the other vessel appeared to be approaching his own ship on a quartering course, Ogdensburg should pass ahead of it by at least a half-mile.

As McNeil continued monitoring the lights, it quickly became apparent that the other ship, which he now recognized as Atlantic, was much closer and traveling much faster than he had originally believed. Rather than clearing one another by a good half-mile, the two ships would now pass far more closely than McNeil was comfortable with.

Then, to McNeil’s dismay and horror, Atlantic abruptly changed course, turning directly into the big freighter’s path.

Perhaps her helmsman spotted Ogdensburg and thought they could pass in front. Perhaps the big steamer hadn’t been seen at all. What is certain is that the sudden course change virtually guaranteed a collision between the two vessels.

McNeil shouted for Ogdensburg’s engines to be turned to full reverse, and the vessel brought hard about. With its steam whistle not functioning, he ran onto the deck and yelled repeatedly, waving his arms over his head in a desperate bid to catch the attention of the Atlantic’s crew and alert them to the danger. But the ships were too close and there was not enough time. McNeil could only watch and hold on as Ogdensburg plowed straight into Atlantic, its sharply pointed bow cutting deep into the port side just forward of the paddlewheel.

McNeil ran back into the pilothouse and ordered Ogdensburg to back away from Atlantic’s crumpled hull and stop, so the crews could assess the damage. To his astonishment, Atlantic simply continued on its way under full steam, as if nothing had happened.

But things had happened, and none of them were good.

With its port side buckled, water surged into the ship through openings on multiple decks, flooding the lower compartments. In only a few minutes the water extinguished the fires heating Atlantic’s boilers, bringing the engine to a halt before the ship had gone another two miles.

Exactly why Atlantic continued on at full power remains a mystery, but it’s possible that Ogdensburg’s sharp bow could have severed mechanical linkages to the paddlewheel in the collision, leaving the Atlantic crew with a loss of control.

What is certain is that with the ship mortally wounded and already settling lower in the water, Atlantic’s passengers and crew alike began to panic. Within minutes, people on deck were seen throwing anything that they thought would float over the side before jumping into the lake themselves. But

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many of the cargo boxes and wooden stools jettisoned as improvised life rafts promptly broke apart or sank, leaving dozens of people flailing helplessly in the water.

While its complement of just three small lifeboats would be of limited help to the more than 500 people still onboard Atlantic, Captain Pettey ordered them launched at once. The first boat capsized almost immediately, as too many people tried to climb onboard. With frightened passengers now running in every direction onboard the ship, Pettey was bumped from the hurricane deck while attempting to launch the second boat, falling head-first to a gangway below where he lay either unconscious or dead. The boat was subsequently launched by some of the remaining crew, who boarded it themselves and left the remaining passengers on Atlantic to their fate.

The third lifeboat was launched by passengers, including a young Norwegian immigrant named Erik Thorstad, who wrote to his parents about the tragedy on November 9, 1852.

The lifeboat was found to be in terrible condition, with multiple serious leaks and no oars.

“We rowed with our hands,” he wrote, “and several bailed water with their hats.”

Heroism and reckoning

Having assessed the damage to the bow of their own vessel, the crew of the Ogdensburg had just begun to get back underway when someone onboard realized that Atlantic hadn’t just steamed off into the night as initially thought, but was still close by and in serious trouble. Turning around quickly, Ogdensburg caught up to the stricken paddle-wheeler within 10 minutes. But by this point Atlantic’s bow was

already completely submerged, with only the stern end of the ship still visible above the lake surface. Everywhere in the water was debris, cargo boxes and people screaming for help.

In spite of the darkness and the fog, Ogdensburg’s determined crew pulled more than 240 people from the water, hauling the last survivors aboard as Atlantic belched a final gush of air and slid beneath the surface.

Searching for some time longer and finding no one else in the water alive, Ogdensburg steamed immediately for the closest port, which was Erie. Some of the Atlantic survivors were thus reunited with friends and family members left behind on the same dock only hours before, while others who missed the boat searched frantically among the rescued for their own friends and relatives, many to no avail.

News of the Atlantic disaster spread quickly, and the sinking headlined newspapers across the U.S. and Canada the following day, its horrific death toll sparking an unprecedented public outcry. A scathing story published in the Buffalo Daily Republic on August 21, titled “The Appalling Calamity on the Lake,” reported dozens of survivors coming forward to accuse the Atlantic’s officers and crew of gross incompetence, with the exception of the captain and the ship’s clerk, one Mr. Givon, who was widely praised for his efforts to help the passengers. Sadly, neither Captain Pettey nor Mr. Givon made it off the ship alive.

An official inquiry into the catastrophe saw widespread condemnation of the ship’s owners for failing to provide adequate lifeboats and life-saving equipment. Conversely, survivors commended the captain and crew of the

Ogdensburg for coming immediately to their aid, and for successfully rescuing as many people as they did.

Speaking at the inquiry, Ogdensburg First Mate Degrass McNeil testified that an inability to communicate with passengers who did not understand English appeared to contribute to the high death toll.

“There was a large number of Norwegians on the main deck who could not understand one word that was said by the officers,” McNeil reported. “They were panic struck and threw themselves, without the least preparation, into the water, where so many of them perished.”

If nothing else, the loss of the Atlantic sparked unprecedented dialogue about the near universal lack of safety standards on the Great Lakes. Searing depositions from dozens of survivors led to a number of recommendations being made, including mandating the provision of adequate lifeboats and life preservers for every passenger onboard, implementing the use of onboard fog horns to make other vessels aware of a ship’s presence in conditions of reduced visibility, establishing limits for maximum passenger and cargo volumes, and requiring crews to render aid to passengers in emergency situations, and to be formally trained in how to do so.

It seems unthinkable that such basic measures did not exist at the time of the wreck of the Atlantic, but its loss — and the loss of up to 400 people aboard her — are a key reason that they do exist now.

Today, Atlantic rests on the bottom of Lake Erie under 150 feet of water, a few miles off Long Point, Ontario. The vessel is considered a gravesite and is protected as such under Canadian law. H

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M B I A P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F M B I A FA C E B O O K ; FA M I LY P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F N I C K I P O L A N

DRAWN

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TO THE

WATER

Nicki Polan, lifelong Michigander and MBIA’s executive director, gets to “work in an industry dedicated to bringing joy to families.”

I

BY HEaTHER STEINBERGER

f you live near the Great Lakes, it’s not hard to be close to the water. Even if you don’t have a boat, lakes big and small beckon with temptations like swimming, fishing, and coastal hiking and camping.

That’s how it started for lifelong Michigan resident Nicki Polan, one of four children growing up in what she calls a big outdoors family. Then, when she was 15, her parents upped the ante.

They moved the family to Brendel Lake in Oakland County and they bought a boat.

“We got a Sylvan deckboat, and I learned to waterski,” Polan says. “I also had a windsurfer, and my two younger brothers became big fishermen. My parents still live there.”

After graduating from nearby Lakeland High School, Polan went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in East Lansing and her master’s degree in marketing and management from Walsh College in Troy. At the time, she says, applying her education and skills to the on-water activities and lifestyle she loved wasn’t even on her radar.

“Our family often went to the Detroit Boat Show even before we moved out to the lake,” she explains, “but I didn’t realize there was a whole industry behind it.”

An industry calls

(Opposite page) Top: Nicki Polan driving a boat; Bottom left: Polan (right) next to Amy Krueger Malow and Pete Beauregard, Jr.; Bottom right: Polan (second from left) at an MBIA event.

While she was still in college, Polan worked for her father, a certified public accountant with his own firm. After graduation, she relocated to Chicago and took a position with a financial services company.

“Initially, it wasn’t as wonderful as I thought it would be,” she says with a laugh. “I started sending out resumes, and I heard back from the Michigan

Boating Industries Association (MBIA).”

Founded in 1958, this nationally acclaimed nonprofit trade association is dedicated to the promotion, protection and advancement of the recreational boating industry in Michigan. It currently represents more than 350 marine businesses, and is the premier boat show producer in the state, responsible for the Detroit Boat Show, the Novi Boat Show and the Metro Boat Show.

In 1988, Polan took the job with MBIA and returned home to southeastern Michigan. She said it wasn’t a hard decision.

“The connection to the boat shows and to boating itself drew me in,” she says. “How fun, to be able to do what we do! To work in an industry dedicated to bringing joy to families.”

Thirty-three years later, Polan is now MBIA’s executive director. In addition

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Polan’s parents on their first boat in 1978 (top) and while boating in 2021 (bottom).

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Photos this page: Polan enjoying the boating lifestyle with her family.

to producing the three annual boat shows and all other MBIA-related events and programs, she and her four staff members are also deeply involved with industry relations and any legislative issues that concern MBIA membership.

“We started with just one show,” she recalls. “Now there are three, and we assist with a few others. I love the shows! They’re pretty amazing. It’s wonderful to see all of our members, and to see the joy on people’s faces when they purchase their new boats.

Each show is a huge undertaking; to see all our hard work come together provides a real sense of satisfaction.”

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PHOTO COURTESY OF XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX

Due to ongoing uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the lack of inventory, MBIA made the difficult decision to cancel the 2022 Detroit Boat Show. Polan says the MBIA board of directors was also concerned with buyers’ expectations.

“We didn’t want them to be disappointed when they couldn’t see the boats they were most interested in,” she explains.

“They might not be able to see those models for a year or two.

“We hope to be back to normal in 2023 with the winter show,” she continues.

“Until then, dealers are learning how to sell boats with limited inventory.”

At press time, the Novi Boat Show in March was tentatively scheduled to take place, but MBIA indicated it would make a final decision on February 1.

And Polan has high hopes for the Metro Boat Show in September, as the 2021 show was a great success.

“We saw a 17% increase in traffic at the Metro Boat Show this past September,” she says. “Boaters are anxious to get back to the shows, to be together and to see the product — especially if they can be outdoors.”

When it comes to legislative work, Polan says her team focuses on five key priorities on behalf of the MBIA membership. The first involves protecting Michigan’s lakes and fisheries.

“We’re cautious about further industrialization, especially offshore wind turbines as we see on Lake Erie,” she says.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICKI POLAN

Education, advocacy and boat shows

PHOTO COURTESY OF XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX

P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F M B I A FAC E B O O K A N D M E T R O B OAT S H OW FAC E BO O K

“First, we need to have environmental impact studies and a process to guide this type of development.”

The second priority is to foster a positive business environment. For example, in 2013, Michigan finally passed legislation that allowed boaters to only pay sales tax on the difference between their new boat and their trade-in. Neighboring states were already doing this, so joining them proved to be a win for boaters and businesses in Michigan.

“Because of term limits, we have to keep educating legislators on the importance of our industry on the state’s economy and quality of life,” Polan notes.

“We continuously monitor for negative legislation to oppose and push forward legislation that is good for our industry and boaters in Michigan.”

The third priority is education. MBIA is supporting the Water Ski Industry Association’s efforts to educate boaters about operating in a courteous manner.

“Michigan has strong boating laws on the books, and all boaters need to be responsible for their wakes,” Polan says.

“New boaters are encouraged to take a boating safety class, which are readily available in person and online. Michigan law states that anyone born after July 1, 1996 must have a boater safety certificate to operate a boat. We’re not in favor of new laws or restricting boating. Rather, we seek to educate — to encourage all boaters to be courteous of others.”

The fourth priority is infrastructure.

Polan and her MBIA team advocate for initiatives that support federal funding for boating access infrastructure and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Waterways Fund and grant program, which provide funding for engineering studies and infrastructure improvements to assets such as harbors and public boating access sites.

The fifth priority is workforce development. Polan says MBIA is dedicated to helping people understand the many career opportunities within the recreational marine industry.

“Most people don’t realize there is an industry behind the fun of boating,” she explains. “We actively work to cultivate talent and offer continuing education so

we can help grow our industry. Without a qualified workforce, it’s difficult to provide boaters with the highest standards of customer service — and to keep boats on the water during the beautiful summer months in Michigan.

“There is a misconception that employment in the industry is seasonal, and that is not true,” she adds. “Employees will find year-round, gainful employment with good paying wages in an industry that is in desperate need of skilled individuals.”

Embracing the lifestyle

As Polan works hard on preparations for shows and programs underway in 2022, she is mindful of addressing the needs of future boaters as well as current ones. She emphasizes the importance of addressing perceived barriers openly and honestly.

“Our industry is working to reach a more diverse audience, and we need to help educate them,” she explains. “Even if someone isn’t buying a boat right now, it’s still valuable to plant that seed for ownership. So we talk to them about affordability, overall value, ease of operation — especially with technology like joystick docking, one-touch cover systems and virtual anchoring systems — and time.”

Time has been a sticky point in recent years, with families suffering from over-scheduling with work and children’s activities. But, as Polan notes, the pandemic is shining a powerful light on how we really want to spend our time. And collectively we are learning that slowing down, spending time together and making memories is what we have been yearning for.

Polan says that is true for her family as well. She, her husband, and their two college-age sons enjoy recreational water life aboard their 22-foot Bennington pontoon and 15-foot Boston Whaler. They also spend time with her parents at Brendel Lake, and with her husband’s family at their lake cottage in Coldwater, Michigan.

“We still want to spend time all together,” she says. “Fishing, watersports… there’s just something about the water. It does magical things.” ★

Photos this page: Events hosted

by MBIA include the MBIA Recreational Boating Educational Conference (top), the Detroit Boat Show (middle) and the Metro Boat Show (bottom).

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PHOTO BY AIRFOX PHOTOGRRAPHY

PORT OF CALL

WASHBURN

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L’Anse Ashland

Small town charm with all the amenities in the lovely northern Wisconsin bay town of Washburn.

by Felicia Schneiderhan

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confess: I loved Washburn long before I ever visited by boat. I first traveled to this lovely small town on Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay in January 2013, when I was selected to read some of my work with 15 other writers and poets at the WritersRead event held at StageNorth, the local theater, home of the StageNorth groundings. It was a snowy January night, and there was a Packers game on: I figured we’d get 10 people in the audience if we were lucky. But the house was packed. Afterwards, writers and artists, readers and art appreciators milled the lobby bar, chatting until very late into the evening.

I fell in love that night. Over the next seven years I returned again and again, sometimes multiple times a year, often staying at Blakely’s Hill House, a lovely farmhouse B&B, minus the breakfast. I cherished parking my car for the weekend and walking everywhere in town: The old Carnegie library and indie bookstore, the grocery store, restaurants and cafes. I wandered the old, tree-lined neighborhoods with Victorian homes and all along the Lake Superior lakefront. I loved the friendliness, the slowed pace, the easy accessibility of necessities and art, and the community spirit.

Fast forward to the summer of 2020, when we took our family of three kids cruising through the Apostle Islands aboard our 38-foot trawler Mazurka. We had no intention of visiting Washburn, but on our first morning, anchored just off Oak Island, something didn’t sound quite right when my husband Mark tried to start the engine.

Mark rushed around, looking for his phone. “The starter won’t shut off! Get Ed on the phone!” His brother, Ed, is a large diesel engine mechanic based in the Keweenaw, best friend to Mazurka’s Ford Lehman 120-hp, six-cylinder single engine. Within an hour, while I took the kids to the bow for snacks and books, they had deduced the problem and were able to jump-start the engine while our 10-year-old revved the throttle. We were on our way. “Ed will order us a new starter,” Mark told me, “Where should he send it?”

That was a no-brainer: “Washburn!”

In a few hours we entered Washburn harbor, greeted by teenagers jumping off the breakwall into the ice-cold water. The full-service Washburn Marina has plenty of transient slips, a ship store, picnic and grill, and an expansive boat repair facility.

Captain Washburn

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T O P P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F W A S H B U R N I N N FAC E B O O K ; P H O T O AT LEFT COURTESY OF FELICIA SCHNEIDERHAN

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Washburn Marina

End of Houghton Falls Trail

TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF ADVENTUREUS; RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF WASHBURN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

It’s within walking distance from just about everything, including the grocery store, downtown shops and restaurants, and the auto parts store where our new starter would be arriving soon.

Built on brownstone Washburn was founded in 1883 on a hillside overlooking the Chequamegon Bay, in large part due to its protected harbor, ample forests and the availability of sandstone, also called “brownstone.” It quickly grew to be an important industrial and commercial town, as the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Omaha Railroad needed a lake port. In 1885, the Northern Pine Land Company opened the first of three major mills along the lakefront. Logging railroads led from town to transport raw materials into the community’s saw mills. By the late 1880s, several brownstone quarries operated along the sandstone outcrops between Washburn and Bayfield.

This vital building material was shipped by waterway to Chicago and was used to rebuild the city after the Great Chicago Fire.

Examples of the rich sandstone architecture can be found throughout Washburn. You can visit three brownstone buildings on the National Register of Historic Places: The Washburn Cultural Center, the Bayfield County Courthouse and the Washburn Public Library.

Washburn was named district headquarters of the Chequamegon National Forest almost a century ago. Today, these thousands of acres of national and county forests supply timber for the state’s forest products industry, along with all kinds of recreation opportunities. In town, the lakefront is well-loved, and a paved pathway connects two parks at either end of town, Memorial Park and Thompson’s West End Park, with a stop at the marina. Just north of town, Houghton Falls offers a jaw-dropping hike along a sandstone gorge that opens into Lake Superior and a view of the Apostles.

Just outside of town, the more remote Long Lake (not to be confused with the large Long Lake Recreation Area in Washburn County) is circled by a flat hiking trail, plus a small swimming beach and picnic area.

Music in the Parks

Events

Washburn’s Brownstone Community Block Party, Brownstone Days, is held in late July. This community-wide event features the North Coast Car Show, Lion’s Club Golf Outing, Washburn Garden Tour, historic Washburn Trolley Tours, plus a movie in the park and fireworks at night.

Washburn Wednesdays celebrates midweek with a farmers market, live music, kids’ activities and special offers from area businesses.

Big Top Chautauqua, offering local and international music performers all season long, has a kiosk in downtown Washburn where you can buy tickets and catch a shuttle ride to the venue.

But it’s not just summer. Fall, winter and spring are gorgeous, too. See the fall colors while visiting the local orchards. On February 19, 2022, Book Across the Bay is a chance to ski, snowshoe or hike across the frozen bay, from Ashland to Washburn, lit by luminaries under a deep winter sky.

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Thompson’s West End Park

Good Thyme Restaurant

Tetzner’s Dairy Farm

AdventureUs

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A growing downtown With a current population of about 2,000, Washburn is often overshadowed by its two neighboring Chequamegon Bay towns, Bayfield and Ashland. That’s probably about to change, though, as Washburn has gained notoriety in recent years. The lovely small town feel and easy access to the outdoors attract visitors and small business owners, and the Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce has done a lot in the last two years to support new and existing businesses. In the past years, local businesses have received a number of Wisconsin Main Street Bounce Back grants, which award up to $10,000 for a new or existing business to move into a vacant downtown or commercial property.

Walking along Bayfield Street, you’ll find new stores and restaurants popping up, along with some long-standing community favorites.

Washburn is a community of craftspeople, and artists are growing their spaces.

Artists Squared Gallery and Karlyn Yellowbird Gallery have expanded, and renowned local artist Jamey Penney-Ritter, known for her photography and vintage posters, has recently opened a new studio and gallery. Indie-bookseller Chequamegon Books offers readers a cup of coffee while they meander through more than 80,000 titles in stock.

For hungry boaters, Dalou’s Bistro serves excellent wood-fired pizza, and Good Thyme Restaurant is known for its outstanding dinners in the big yellow house.

Downtown, Patsy’s Bar and Grill dishes up the best burgers in Bayfield County.

Boaters can sip a cocktail at the new 211 Martini Bar or enjoy a local brew at the South Shore Taphouse. Harbor House Sweets uses local dairy and fruits in their incredible chocolates and delectables. A well-known secret among locals is Tetzner’s Dairy Farm on Nevers Road; this small dairy grocery is stocked with local cheese, milk, ice cream and other favorites — all self-serve. Patrons write their own receipt and leave their cash or check in the box.

Mayor Mary Motiff, Chamber Director Melissa Martinez, and local business owners like Amy Trimbo, owner of AdventureUs (a small business devoted to sewing for an outdoor lifestyle) all agree that sustaining the small town feel and public access to the lakefront and outdoor amenities are priorities for the town, even as it grows.

On our first morning in Washburn, we all ordered breakfast at the walk-up window at beloved Café Coco, whose indoor seating was closed during the pandemic. Its super-fun staff bakes fresh pastries, desserts and breads (the Russian Rye sign jokes that it’s known as a doorstop — and it’s delicious). They make tasty daily soups and breakfasts, and the atmosphere — even outside on the sidewalk — was friendly and eclectic. We headed over to the fountain across the street for a lovely alfresco experience.

T O P T W O A N D T E T Z N E R ’S P H O T O S B Y F E L I C I A S C H N E I D E R H A N ; R E S TA U R A N T P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F G O O D T H Y M E FAC E BO O K ; A DV E N T U R E U S C O U R T E S Y FAC E BO O K

Washburn Cultural Center

C A F É C O C O P H O T O C O U R T E S Y FAC E BO O K ; F I S H P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F W A S H B U R N I N N FAC E BO O K

Café Coco

Resources

The next day, while Mark installed the new starter (he even put in a kill switch, just in case), I took the kids to the playgrounds in town, picking raspberries along the way, then to the ABC Thrift Shop, the grocery store and AdventureUs. The next morning we headed for Stockton Island, but not without some serious discussion about keeping our boat at Washburn the next year. That hometown feel with plenty to do is hard to top! ★

Bayfield County Tourism

TR AVELBAYFIELDCOUNTY.COM

Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce WASHBURNCHAMBER.COM

Washburn Marina

WASHBURNMARINA.COM

Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands are calling you…

Washburn – The perfect start to your Bayfield County adventure.

WA S H B U R N C H A M B E R .C O M

T R AV E L B AY F I E L D C O U N T Y.C O M

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BOAT BIZ

BY ABBY THORPE

MORE INFORMATION Quality Marine Electronics 10692 Chicago Dr. Zeeland, MI 49464 616-566-2101 QUALITYMARINE ELECTRONICS.COM

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Quality Marine Electronics Zeeland, Michigan’s turn-key, one-stop shop.

A

fter an early career working for a marine electronics company in West Michigan, Goran Majdandzic headed out on his own and started Quality Marine Electronics out of his garage. Today, the Zeeland, Michigan-based company offers a one-stop shop for boaters looking for quality marine electronics installations and custom metal fabrication.

“Quality Marine Electronics was founded with one thing in mind: To offer quality work at a valued price,” Majdandzic explains. “Henry Ford once said, ‘Quality means doing it right when no one is looking.’ We take this to heart and do everything with quality in mind; our satisfaction comes from happy customers.”

Hard work and a commitment to quality have propelled Quality Marine Electronics into one of the most trusted marine electronics businesses in the area. The company sells and installs marine

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electronics ranging from Raymarine, Furuno and Garmin to many other popular brands. It also offers a fully stacked machine shop and custom metal fabrication for everything from panels and helms to large masts and hardtops. As an added bonus, it is the only marine electronics company on the Great Lakes that manufactures stainless steel lighted yacht signs. All of this allows the company to not only tackle the most difficult projects, but to serve as a true turn-key, one-stop shop for customers.

Quality Marine Electronics’ location in Zeeland allows it to serve a wide area of boaters, including all of Michigan and even some of Indiana and the Chicago area. The company will be attending and displaying its products at the Miami International Boat and Yacht Show in February, so stop by the show to say hello and catch a glimpse of its work. ★

L AK ES HOR E LI F E

Gulf Harbour Marina

Located on the Intracoastal Waterway in South Ft. Myers Florida

Gulf Harbour Marina is the “Destination of Choice” for many Midwest boaters! This 186-slip yacht basin has docks from 38' to 97'. Cruise the protected waterways to the islands of Sanibel, Captiva and Boca Grande.

Experience the marinas, resorts, restaurants, bays and beaches or cruise the Gulf of Mexico to Ft. Myers Beach, Naples or the Florida Keys.

Gulf Harbour Properties LLC • Marina Boat Slips for Sale: 38', 48', 50', 60', 70' and T-Docks • Over 20 neighborhoods homes & condos available at $150,000 to over $5 million • Equity Country Club memberships available: 18 hole championship golf course, tennis complex, Spa-Fitness Center, Waterside Grille and Johnny Brown’s waterfront restaurants • Only 5 miles to Beach Islands and 30 minutes to International Airport

Call Us... We are former Midwest GREG & JO CALLAWAY residents and Great Lakes cruisers who have lived in Gulf Harbour for over 23 years, and own a slip for our boat.

GulfHarbourProperties.com

239-851-8783 • Greg@GulfHarbour Properties.com

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

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LAKESHORE LIFE

BY ABBY THORPE

ADDRESS Paramount #920 14270 Royal Harbour Ct. Ft. Myers, FL 33908 SPECS Bedrooms: 3 Baths: 3 Square Footage: 3,340 Price: $1,600,000 CONTACT Greg Callaway Gulf Harbour Properties 239-565-2766 GULFHARBOUR PROPERTIES.COM

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Fort Myers, Florida

Panoramic views at the Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club.

R

eady to escape to the warmth and sunshine of Florida? This ninth floor, 3,340-square-foot condo located in The Paramount at the beautiful Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club is ready to welcome boaters and water lovers to the Intracoastal Waterway.

“The Paramount is in the Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club, a security gated community in South Ft. Myers on the Intracoastal Waterway, just five miles from the Gulf of Mexico,” says Greg Callaway of Gulf Harbour Properties. “It features a 186-slip marina and country club with golf, tennis, two restaurants and a state of the art fitness center.”

Beautifully updated, this unit boasts all of the amenities of the incredible country club, with modern finishes and spectacular panoramic west-facing waterfront views to catch the sunset in the evenings. The open kitchen features white cabinetry, granite countertops, a stone backsplash and a center island breakfast bar and desk.

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A large waterfront owner’s suite with a remodeled bathroom and walk-in closet, in addition to two guest suites featuring private baths — one with a private lanai — provide this home with incredible space to entertain friends and family. Stepping into the great room, you’re greeted by more views of the river with a lanai to take in the fresh air and sunshine. The living room opens into a formal dining room with a wetbar and wine cooler.

Other features include quartz flooring, crown molding and storm shutters on both lanais. The unit comes partially furnished and includes a broad list of amenities, including swimming pools with spas, a fitness center, social rooms, board room and billiards, two enclosed parking spaces, climatecontrolled storage and the option to add a county club sports membership. Enjoy the Sunshine State with the Intracoastal Waterway just steps away and boating adventures at your fingertips. ★

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31 30 28 28 28 27 26 26 26 26 25 24 24 24 24 24 23 23 22 22 21 21 21 20 20 20 20 18 18 17 16 15 13 13 11

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CHICAGO’S BIGGEST BOAT SHOW IS AT BASA’S! ONCE GONE, NOTHING UNTIL 2023 SEASON!

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BASASMARINE.COM MAIN LOCATION Basa’s Marine, 512 E. North Frontage Road, Bolingbrook, IL

MICHIGAN LOCATION Basa’s at Oselka Marina, 514 W. Water Street, New Buffalo, MI

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

BROK E R AG E

1988 VANTARE 58 MY $224,500

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2017 BENETEAU GT 46 $660,000

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1992 OCEAN ALEXANDER 46 $229,900

2000 CHAPARRAL SIGNATURE 300 $46,500

1997 MARINE TRADER 34 $59,500

2009 SABRE 386 $199,000

JOIN US AT THESE UPCOMING BOAT SHOWS! n Milwaukee Boat Show: January 21-23, 26-30 n Green Bay Boat Show: February 4-6 n Wisconsin Fishing Expo: February 25-27 n Milwaukee Sports Show: March 10-13

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Four Winns HD3

Wellcraft 262 Fisherman

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MAR I N E MAR K E T PL AC E

ADDED SAfEty At thE Dock & on thE wAtEr

great gifts!

Boarding Pole

Extra assistance boarding the boat. $79.99/$99.99

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TR IDENT

Burgee Holder wave that flag. $59.00

nautical cross

Quickly tie-off fenders and tenders. $79.99/$99.99

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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON

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

C L AS S I F I E D S

Advertise your boat, boat slip or property with us!

Contact us by JANUARY 15 to get into our March, April, May and June 2022 issues!

*N EW !*

2021 ZODIAC MEDLINE 580 New Medline 580 with a grey hull and deck. She has blue/teal cushions and black NEO tubes. The new Medline Series is one of our best sellers this year! Asking $47,900. Call Matt @ 734-735-1948. RYS

*R ED UC ED !*

2019 TIARA 38LS Triple 350 Yamaha, 200 hours, Helm Master and Seakeeper.

Great condition. $629,000. Contact doubledproperties01@gmail.com. APR22

2008 HACKER-CRAFT 29 LONG DECK GENTLEMAN’S RACER 100% freshwater, one owner in excellent condition! Powered by Crusader 8.1 ltr. gas engine. Always kept in indoor heated storage in winter and boat shed during summer. Includes 2017 Manning tandem axle paint steel trailer. Asking $139,900. Call Brent @ 616-842-8899. RYS Owner found this boat in a Lakeland Boating classified ad almost 50 years ago!

1969 38’ CHRIS-CRAFT ROAMER Classic Chris-Craft Roamer. Aluminum hull, twin 427s, 6.5 gen. Asking $45,000. Leave message at 269-4693849 will return all calls, or email beachfrontii @aol.com. NOV21

2021 WELDCRAFT 20 ANGLER XT New! Super-comfy seating for six people, reverse chine, extruded gunwale, welded downrigger brackets and convertible top with side curtains are all standard. Hydraulic Steering and Sport Interior Package are just a few of the options included!

Call for details. Asking $58,945. Call Matt @ 734-735-1948. RYS

2011 LEGACY 32 MKIII Full displacement pilothouse trawler. Custom-built in the USA, freshwater, one owner. Very well maintained. Asking $165,000. Call Matt @ 734-735-1948. RYS

1999 HATTERAS 48 SPORTFISH This sportfish commands attention. She has been pampered in the Great Lakes for many years and shows extremely well. Her interior has been completely redone as well as recent replacement of the side view windows. $225,000. Contact Martin Kelsey at 920-559-0366 or martin@centerpointe sales.com. CNT

1995 MAINSHIP 370 MY Champ is a freshwater yacht with 377 hrs on big block 370-hp Marine Power inboards. Spacious interior with two private heads, master cabin head has a separate shower.

Asking $84,995. Contact Mike Montilino at 612419-3772 or mike@centerpointesales.com. CNT

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2021 NAUTICSTAR 2102 LEGACY This 2102 Legacy is a needle in a haystack... 130 freshwater hours on its Yamaha 200 outboard make it perfectly turn-key and water ready, with no ‘break in’ period necessary! $65,999 Contact Joe Moede at 414793-0195 or joe@centerpointesales.com. CNT

TO ADVERTISE YOUR BOAT IN CLASSIFIEDS: Visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/CLASSIFIEDS for details and to submit your materials. Payments cannot be accepted online. We will contact you for payment once your ad proof is approved. Questions? Email Christy at CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM.

2014 SAILFISH 240CC Excellent condition.

Full Raymarine electronics including autopilot, 300 hp Yamaha four stroke. Under 300 hrs.

Located in Vermilion, OH. Asking $70,000. Email cblgolf62@gmail.com or call 440-864-2232 for more info. SEP21

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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FEBRUARY 2022

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CLASSIC CRAFT

T-Sea

The first Chris-Craft Commander debuted at the 1964 New York Boat Show. Not only was she a beautiful express cruiser, but she surprised and wowed showgoers because she was “Styled in Fiberglass” — the slogan Chris-Craft gave to its allnew, state of the art line of all-fiberglass cruisers. The 1968 model year saw the introduction of the 35 Commander, which is, in my opinion, the best looking cruiser ever built. And as a teenager in the 1990s, I knew I had to have one.

By then I already owned my first boat, a 21-foot Wellcraft cuddy that I ran all over the Western Basin of Lake Erie. As much as I loved that boat, I was ready to buy my own cabin cruiser and spend weekends aboard like I grew up doing on my family’s boat. After looking at a variety of generic express cruisers, my parents finally pointed out the obvious: Why would I pour my heart and scarce funds into an interim boat that I’d just sell in a couple years at a loss? I loved the Commander — go find my Commander. And at age 19, I did.

I looked all over for the right candidate — a specific make and model that only saw production numbers in the low 200s — before finding one practically in my backyard in Vermilion, Ohio. She was tired, dirty, and what systems were still functioning were doing so with the proverbial duct tape and bailing wire. But she was all there — the perfect candidate.

This spring, I’m celebrating 20 years of ownership. In those years, I’ve completely restored and upgraded nearly everything aboard, both mechanical and cosmetic. At this point, it’s easier to simply tell you that the sole piece of untouched original equipment is the optional two-burner electric stove. While I’ve made some significant changes, I’ve done my best to be faithful to her designers’ intent — keeping her in, as I call it, the spirit of original. I’m also very proud of the fact that, outside of some engine work early on, I’ve done all of the work myself.

The past 20 years have been sheer bliss, and I can’t wait for the next 20. She’s a regular sight around the Western Basin and Lake Erie Islands. If you see us around, don’t hesitate to say hello!

—Tom Michaels, Sandusky, OH ADD YOUR BOAT! Email KBUSH@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM if you have a Classic Craft with a great story to share!

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOM MICHAELS

1968 Chris-Craft 35 Commander Express

ADVE RTISE I N

CALL 800-331-0132 FOR MORE INFORMATION