Lakeland Boating January 2012

Explore Boundary Waters, MN Weather Forecasting

Huron

|

Ontario

CRUISERS

41 Cantius

Michigan

|

Erie

|

Superior

Destinations WINTER CHARTER

LAKELANDBOATING.COM JANUARY 2012 Display Until January 31, 2012

|

1,000S

SEA OF CORTEZ, MEXICO SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

OF BOATS

FOR

SALE

Avalon

Formula

Sea Ray

Tiara

235 SS

Moonrock vinyl wrapped helm and Executive solid wood wheel.

"Hot Tub" style reclined bow seating with deep, abundant storage beneath. Shown with optional flip-up arm rests.

T

he Crownline 235 SS embraces “sports car”styling with its lustrous double hull band gel coat design and sleek style lines.

The contours of the 235 SS are further enhanced by Crownline’s patented F.A.S.T. Tab® hull design which ensures a safe and comfortable ride, improves time to plane and increases fuel efficiency and stability in high speed turns.

Hinged rear bench seat storage.

Live life. Live Crownline!

Finished shock assisted sundeck storage.

Crownline Boats 11884 Country Club Road West Frankfort, IL 62896

http://www.crownline.com

The eye-catching stainless steel accents on the side of the boat add a touch of sophistication and flair. The oversized, fully integrated swim platform features a “soft touch” mat for comfort and a stainless steel four step boarding ladder for safety. The interior features a rich tri color platinum interior, stainless steel hardware and deep hot tub style bow seating.

OVERALL LENGTH BEAM DRAFT UP DRAFT DOWN CAPACITY PERSONS DEADRISE GAS MAX. HORSE POWER WEIGHT ANGLE OF ENTRY AT BOW

23'5" 102" 20" 37" 1650 Lbs 11 19° 45 Gal 430 HP 5000-5300 Lbs 39°

7.14 M 2.59 M 51cm 94cm 748 Kg 170 L 2268-2404 Kg

Standard Super Sport interior with two flip-up bucket seats and center walk-thru transom with filler cushions

in this issue

Features 20

Cruisers 41 Cantius

30

Secret Getaway

38

Sea Change

50

Out of Bounds

A true groundbreaking Great Lakes design.

Explore the exquisite, oft-overlooked charter grounds of Southwest Florida.

Escape everyday life and find a renewed sense of tranquility in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez Enjoy a true Up North wilderness experience in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters.

Search 1,000s of new and used boats for sale lakelandboating.com/boat_search.cfm

50 38

PHOTO BY BING O’MEARA

30

PHOTO BY DAVE MEARDON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SANIBAL & CAPTIVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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PHOTO COURTESY OF COOK COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU

Departments

6 8 10 16 17 18 19 26 60 62 74

From the Helm Mail Call Scuttlebutt Corke Board The Chandlery

76 77 80

Ask an Expert Classifieds Above the Waterline

On the Cover

Gear Guru Electronics Boat Spotlights Marina Watch Great Buy Lakeshore Life

The Cruisers 41 Cantius features an open-concept layout, designed to integrate spaces indoors and out.

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF CRUISERS YACHTS

The entry-level 195RX is priced to sell. It offers the highest quality, most fuel efficiency, and best performance in its class...and the best price!

Even though this boat is priced to get you out on the water, it still has more standard amenities than the competitors' similar entry-level models. It is also economical, clean and fuel-efficient, and comes standard with a catalyzed EFI four-stroke engine with power steering.

If you're comparing models, and we encourage you to do so, have a look at the 195RX before you purchase. We think you will be happy that you did!

Length

19' 6"

Beam

7' 7"

Weight (w/ M 3.0L MPI Catalyst) Speed at WOT Capacity Fuel Capacity Fuel Mileage (@ cruise)

2290 lbs 45 mph 8 ppl / 1470 lbs 21 gal 5.4 mph

195RX MSRP StingrayCash.com Discount 195RX Special Price Value Package* Trailer Freight Dealer Prep Total Package Price (in US dollars)

$21,995 - $6,499 $15,496 $999 $2115 $795 $590 $19,995

* Includes standup bimini top, transom tilt switch, 1100 gph automatic bilge pump, marine audio system with MP3 and USB inputs.

Price does not include tax, title, and tags. Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

All prices shown are in US dollars. This offer is available only at participating Stingray Dealers on in-stock inventory.

FOR A LIS T OF S TAND ARD FE ATUR E S, V I SI T STI N G R AYB O ATS. CO M /1 9 5 R X

903 Michigan Avenue, Alma, Michigan 48801 Worldwide: 800.334.2913 • 989.463.2112 • Fax: 989.463.8226

www.avalonpontoons.com

from the helm

Peace on Earth

I

have no interest in golf. Tennis? No. Indoor games, including gambling? Nope. I hate to lose money. I would much rather give it away than blow it on slot machines and Black Jack tables.

The heart of my interests lies in exploring new places, primarily from a boat. Whenever we travel for personal pleasure, it usually involves water — an ocean, lake, river, boat, kayak or canoe. Linda and I have a cottage on a small island in Upstate New York, one of the most scenic and peaceful places on earth.

This short prologue is my way of inching up to the content for the January issue, which we hope you will thoroughly enjoy. This month, we offer three feature stories on beautiful, relaxing destinations to explore by water: Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, Mexico’s Sea of Cortez, and the Southwest coast of Florida.

Our story on the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), written by long-time Lakeland Boating editor-at-large Heather Steinberger, is not to be missed (p. 50). The BWCAW is one of the last places on the planet free from mundane worldly distractions; the perfect setting to bond and build memories that will last a lifetime. World-famous travel writer Charles Kuralt put it best when he said:

“On the map, Ely (Minnesota) appears to be at the end of the road. For people who love wilderness and beauty and solitude, on the contrary, it’s at the center of the world.”

Next up is a piece on Mexico’s Sea of Cortez and the islands of La Paz, written by yours truly (p. 38). Linda and I had an opportunity to do a bareboat charter with The Moorings, whose local charter base is outside the city of La Paz, in a beautiful resort/marina on the coast of the Sea of Cortez. When we arrived to pick up the boat, our 47-foot Power Catamaran was spotless, fully stocked with food and drinks and ready to shove off.

PUBLISHER Walter “Bing” O’Meara EDITORIAL STAFF Editor: Lindsey Johnson Senior editor: Dave Mull Editors-at-large: Heather Steinberger & Roland Schultz CREATIVE STAFF Art director/production manager: Brook Poplawski Art director/production manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs Associate art director: Rod Koser CONTRIBUTORS Elizabeth Altick, Chris Caswell, Mark Corke, Mike Harris, Karen Karl, Layne Kennedy, Ben Liss, Dana Liss, Ken Martinson, Roger McAfee, Erin McCann, Dave Meardon, Zuzana Prochazka, Richard Steinberger, Colleen H. Troupis, Dave Wallace

These islands have been baking in the sun for five million years, and they look no worse for wear. The water is among the cleanest and most brilliant I’ve ever seen. This is a wonderful place for a wintertime family getaway.

Frequent Lakeland Boating contributor Chris Caswell likewise enjoyed a bareboat charter of his own — to Southwest Florida. He wrote about his experience chartering a boat from Vic and Barb Hansen’s Southwest Florida Yachts (p. 30), which is likely to make any Great Lakes boater run for the suitcase and start packing. The Hansens are transplanted Chicagoans who now reside and run their business in the Fort Myers, Florida, area.

Caswell’s story, entitled “Secret Getaway,” explores this breathtaking area of the Sunshine State, a wonderful — and sometimes overlooked — charter grounds right here. Lots of neat things to do in this area for the whole family to enjoy.

Here’s to a great 2012. May we exit the Horse Latitudes and have some fun!

Happy travels,

NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS Lakeland Boating will only mail renewal notices; we will never contact you by phone. You can renew by calling 800-827-0289 or visit our website, lakelandboating.com, and click on the “Subscribe” tab. All renewals should be mailed back to: Lakeland Boating, PO Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-9991.

6 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

January 2012 Volume LXVI, No. 1

BUSINESS STAFF Advertising sales representative: Mark Conway Regional and classified sales manager: Kirsten Moxley Marketing director: Linda O’Meara EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 727 South Dearborn | Suite 812 | Chicago, IL 60605 phone: 312-276-0610 | fax: 312-276-0619 email: staff@lakelandboating.com website: lakelandboating.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 727 South Dearborn | Suite 812 | Chicago, IL 60605 phone 800-331-0132, ext. 21 | fax 312-276-0619 SUBSCRIPTIONS P.O. Box 15396 | North Hollywood | CA 91615-5396 Customer Service: 800-827-0289 O’Meara-Brown Publications Inc. Walter B. O’Meara, president Timothy Murtaugh, secretary Tracy Houren, controller Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194), copyright 2012, is published eleven times per year (except November) by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. Editorial and advertising offices are located at 727 S. Dearborn St., Suite 812, Chicago, IL 60605; 312-2760610. Annual subscription rates: United States, $24.95 per year; International and Canadian, $36.95 per year (11 issues), includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. registration number 894095074-RT0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $4.99 for U.S. and Canada. Only U.S. funds are accepted. Subscription correspondence should be addressed to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396 (U.S.), or call 800-827-0289.

Known office of publication: 727 South Dearborn Street, Suite 812, Chicago, IL 60605. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER, please send all address changes to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396. Lakeland Boating is a registered trademark of O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., Chicago, Illinois.

Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. Unsolicited work may be submitted at the author’s, photographer’s or artist’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.

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A

WHEN YOUR DAY TRIP TURNS INTO A LONG WEEKEND

There’s something magical about being on the water. Before you know it, minutes have become hours. There’s no better way to lose track of time than at the helm of an NC11, the boat with the perfect combination of power, comfort, and versatility. The NC11 is equally at ease during a leisurely jaunt around the bay as it is during that epic multi-day cruise down the coast. The interior and aft deck areas are both marvels of flexible design and openness and twin Volvo Penta D3 engines provide the horsepower to handle the whims of mother nature. See the latest powerboat models from Jeanneau at the Toronto Boat Show, January 14-22, 2012, and at the Montreal Boat Show, February 9-12, 2012.

For more information, please contact Performance Marine at 450-291-5000 or info@pmarine.ca.

Jeanneau.com

Fraser Yacht Sales / Vancouver / 604.734.3344

Performance Marine / Quebec / 450.291.5000

Begin your relationship at these Midwest Dealers

mail call Happy Customer I am from Upstate New York, and last year I purchased a 372 Silverton from Sandusky, Ohio. I thought being from New York and buying a boat in Ohio was going to be a lot of trouble. Boy, was I wrong. I was really impressed with the size and appearance of the marinas in the area. The broker I bought the boat from, Ted Patrick from Lake and Bay Yacht Sales, made the deal go so smoothly. The hospitality at Battery Park Marina — and the service department — was wonderful. I docked the boat there for two weeks before we made our journey to the 1000 Islands in the St. Lawrence River. If you’re ever cruising Lake Erie or shopping for a boat, these are two great places to visit.

The whole ordeal, including the trip back, was a wonderful experience.

—Larry Komuda, Syracuse, NY

Play “Name Game” and Win!

Calendar for the Cure Help find a cure for pancreatic cancer by donating to the cause. Order a 2012 “Cruising for the Cure” calendar (available in limited quantities while supplies last), and net proceeds go to the Jane H. Thie Memorial Fund Inc., benefitting the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. Posters and apparel are available for purchase, too. Calendars are $17.75 each ($20.30 Priority shipped), commemorative posters are $18.25 ($21.55 Priority shipped) and t-shirts are $20.00 ($22.30 Priority shipped). To order, visit cruiseforcure.org. — LB

We’re always on the lookout for interesting and inventive boat names, and we welcome you to share yours with us! Send a short write-up, along with your name, your boat’s name and your home city and state, as well as a high-resolution photo of your boat (at least 1 MB) to: staff@lakelandboating.com.

Don’t forget to put “Name Game” in the subject line. If we publish your Name Game submission in a 2012 issue of Lakeland Boating, you’ll receive a FREE Kanberra Gel gift basket valued at $99, courtesy of the folks at Kanberra. Made with all-natural ingredients like Australian tea tree oil, this semi-solid, biodegradable gel dissipates when exposed to air, breaking down mildew, mold and viruses in a fragrant eucalyptus lemon scent.

SPRING BROOK MARINA, INC. 623 W. River Drive Seneca, IL 61360 815-357-8666 —————— NORTH SHORE MARINA 18275 Berwyck Street Spring Lake, MI 49456 616-842-1488 —————— SKIPPERBUD’S 6801 E Harbor Road Marblehead, OH 43440 419-732-2587 —————— SKIPPERBUD’S - QUARTERDECK MARINA 705 Quarterdeck Lane Sturgeon Bay, WI 54232 920-746-8200 —————— SKIPPERBUD’S - OSHKOSH 1351 Egg Harbour Lane Oshkosh, WI 54904 920-231-3200 —————— SKIPPERBUD’S - PEWAUKEE 1030 Silvernail Rd Pewaukee, WI 53072 262-544-1200

Got something to say?

We love hearing from you! E-mail us at staff@lakelandboating.com, or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 727 South Dearborn St., Suite 812, Chicago, IL 60605. The opinions expressed in Mail Call are not necessarily those of Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

8 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

Visit our new factoryshowroom in Oconto, Wisconsin or go to CruisersYachts.com/lb

Kiss the status quo goodbye.

The new 41 Cantius.

The incredible new 41 Cantius was ergonomically designed to put everything within easy reach. Such as sumptuous food, lively conversation and interesting friends. Its revolutionary open-concept design was made for entertaining guests, by inviting interaction and keeping everyone onboard engaged in the conversation. Plus, it also features the most advanced technology and amenities to make your 41 Cantius the most happening venue in town. Your weekends, and your life will never be the same. To experience the extraordinary new 41 Cantius, visit your dealer or go to CruisersYachts.com/lb

Scan this QR code for behind-the-scenes video of the new 41 Cantius.

scuttlebutt

Calendar of Events

PASSIONATE ABOUT BOATING? VISIT THESE DEALERS TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT TIARA.

Jan. 6 – 8 Dayton Boat & Sports Show Vandalia, OH | rvexpo.net Tri State Fishing Extravaganza Middletown, OH | rvexpo.net Jan. 7 – 15 Ohio RV & Boat Show Columbus, OH | ohiorvandboatshow.com

WALSTROM MARINE • Harbor Springs, MI • Bay Harbor, MI • Cheboygan, MI

Jan. 12 – 15 Minnesota Sportsmen’s Show St. Paul, MN | saintpaulsportshow.com Ultimate Fishing Show Detroit Novi, MI | showspan.com/ufd Jan. 12 – 16 Progressive Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show Chicago, IL | chicagoboatshow.com

Bill and Mina Frey of Wheatfield, Indiana, relax aboard a pontoon at the Progressive Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show.

Jan. 13 – 22 Mid-America Boat & Fishing Show Cleveland, OH | midamericaboatshow.com

Jan. 20 – 29 Milwaukee Boat Show Milwaukee, WI | showspan.com/mbs

Jan. 14 – 22 Toronto International Boat Show Toronto, ON | torontoboatshow.com

Jan. 25 – 29 Cincinnati Hunting & Fishing Show Cincinnati, OH | hartproductions.com

Jan. 19 – 22 Progressive Minneapolis Boat Show Minneapolis, MN | minneapolisboatshow.com

Jan. 26 – 29 Progressive Strictly Sail Chicago Chicago, IL | strictlysailchicago.com

Jan. 20 – 22 & 25 – 29 Cincinnati Travel, Sports & Boat Show Cincinnati, OH | hartproductions.com

Jan. 27 – 29 Northwest Indiana Boat Show Valparaiso, IN | 219-374-5771

COOPER This is a photo of our 10-year-old Golden Retriever, Cooper. He loves being on the boat and, most of all, swimming. This particular day he decided to take a nap!

SKIPPERBUD’S • Marblehead, OH • Greater Detroit, MI • Grand Haven, MI • Greater Chicago, IL • Greater Milwaukee, WI 877-813-8561 SMC@SKIPPERBUDS.COM

TIARA PURSUIT YACHT CENTER Center Pointe Yacht Services • Sturgeon Bay, WI Yacht Works, Inc. • Sister Bay, WI 888 9-YACHTS SALES@TPYCSALES.COM

—Mary Millert Appleton, WI

10 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

231-526-2141 BOATS@WALSTROM.COM

616-392-7163 www.tiarayachts.com TOP PHOTO BY BEN & DANA LISS

Cruising Perfection designed for living... built for life

SHOWN: 4500 SOVRAN

Tiara owners are passionate about boating. Tiara owners are also passionate about their boats. They have the ultimate satisfaction of knowing that their Tiara yacht is engineered, designed and built for long-lasting performance and value P R O U D LY M A D E B Y S K I L L E D C R A F T S M A N I N M I C H I G A N

616-392-7163 • www.tiarayachts.com

scuttlebutt

Operation Summaries

From the 9th District U.S. Coast Guard.

08/03 One Killed, Two Injured in Breakwall Collision Put-In-Bay, OH USCG boatcrews responded after a 25-foot recreational boat struck a breakwall near Ballast Island on the northeast side of Put-In-Bay in Lake Erie, killing one person and injuring two others. The identities of the three boaters are not being released. A USCG boatcrew in a 33-foot Special Purpose Craft–Law Enforcement (SPC-LE) boat from Station Marblehead, Ohio, was already underway in Put-In-Bay for training and arrived at the scene of the accident three minutes after being notified at 22:35. The boatcrew immediately recovered the two injured people and then located the third person unconscious and unresponsive near the vessel. A second boatcrew in another SPC–LE from Station Marblehead launched to assist. EMTs aboard Put-In-Bay police department boats also responded and pronounced the third person that was recovered deceased.

center console

(401)847-1610 www.vanquishboats.com vanquishboats@gmail.com 12 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

Once the two injured people confirmed only three people had been aboard the vessel, a USCG boatcrew transported them to Catawba Island, Ohio, for further transfer by EMS to Magruder Hospital in Port Clinton, Ohio. Put-In-Bay police officers remained on Ballast Island with the body of the deceased person. The two injured people reportedly suffered severe head trauma and other injuries. There were thunderstorms and rain in the area at the time of the accident, and waves were reportedly about three feet. Commercial salvage has been contracted to recover the vessel. The cause of the accident is unknown. case pends 08/08 Four Rescued After Charter Fishing Crash Ashtabula, OH Coast Guardsmen from Station Ashtabula, Ohio, rescued four people after the charter fishing boat they were aboard (continued on p. 14)

runabout

Select Territories Available For Dealers

1 Washington St. Newport Shipyard Newport, RI 02840

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struck a breakwall in Ashtabula Harbor. The names of those involved are not being released. A passing vessel used a VHF-FM marine radio to notify personnel in the USCG Sector Buffalo Command Center of the accident at 04:45.

A boatcrew from Station Ashtabula immediately launched in a 33-foot SPC-LE and five minutes later arrived at the site of the accident, where they found the captain and three passengers aboard the vessel, Sweet Fish, in their life jackets.

The boatcrew brought the three men, ages 66, 53 and 24, and a woman, 48, aboard the SPC-LE and took them to a public dock in Ashtabula, where EMTs were waiting. EMTs evaluated the woman, who complained of head, neck, back and foot injuries, and transported her to a local hospital for further evaluation. The three men refused medical treatment.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources also will be assisting with the investigation. case closed 08/19 Two Wisconsin Men Rescued Kings Beach, WI Rescue boatcrews from two Wisconsin-based USCG stations each rescued a person in the water. In two separate incidents, Coast Guardsmen from Station Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and Station Bayfield, Wisconsin, recovered males who were slightly hypothermic, but without serious injuries. The

14 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

men’s’ names and ages are not being released. At 14:00, the communications watchstander at Station Sheboygan received notification from Sheboygan County Dispatch of a swimmer stranded on a sandbar near Kings Beach.

A rescue boatcrew launched aboard a 25-foot Response Boat-Small (RB-S) and was able to transfer him onto the vessel. He was transported to Station Sheboygan and met by EMS. In the other case, a good Samaritan notified the crew of Station Bayfield at 15:10 of a 17-foot sailboat that capsized near the ferry lane about 200 yards from shore. He was wearing a life jacket. A Station Bayfield rescue boatcrew aboard a 25-foot RB-S recovered the man from the water and transferred him to the crew of a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium (RB-M). The RB-M crew brought the man back to shore at Station Bayfield.

Commercial salvage has been contacted regarding the capsized sailing vessel. case closed 08/22 11 Rescued Following Breakwall Strike Chicago, IL A USCG boatcrew from Station Calumet Harbor, Illinois, saved six children and five adults after the boat they were on struck the Calumet Harbor breakwall near Chicago and sank. A boatcrew from Station Calumet Harbor

PHOTO BY USCG LT. J.G. DANIEL PHILLIPS

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launched in a 45-foot RB-M immediately after learning of the accident at 22:30. When USCG arrived on scene, they found all 11 people standing on the breakwall with their life jackets on. The boatcrew brought the individuals aboard the RB-M and took them to Station Calumet Harbor. EMTs evaluated all 11 people ashore and transported one to a local hospital for treatment of a reported back injury. The mariners were reportedly transiting from the Chicago River to Hammond Marina in Hammond, Indiana, when the accident occurred. The cause of the accident is unknown. The identities of the boaters are not being released. case closed 08/27 Man Rescued After Sailboat Capsized Muskegon, MI A USCG boatcrew from Station Muskegon, Michigan, rescued a man after his sailboat capsized in Lake Michigan about three miles from White Lake Channel. A 911 dispatcher notified USCG at Station Muskegon after the man’s wife called to report she saw his 19-foot sailboat capsize in 4- to 6-foot waves and never saw it re-right. Station Muskegon immediately launched a boatcrew aboard a 41-foot Utility Boat (UTB). An aircrew aboard an MH-65 Dolphin rescue helicopter from Air Facility Muskegon also launched. The

pilots first spotted the man, holding onto the capsized vessel, and directed the crews aboard the Station Muskegon UTB and a Montague fireboat that also responded toward him.

When the UTB crew arrived on scene, USCG pulled the man from the water. He was wearing a life jacket. They later reported he was showing signs of mild hypothermia and transferred him to the fireboat crew, who further transported him to shore through White Lake. The man’s name is not being released. case closed

USCG aircrew from Air Station Traverse City, Michigan, light off MK-124 day/night flares at Bryant Park in Traverse City during the air station’s annual survival training October 5, 2011.

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corke board

Looking Ahead Learn to forecast and predict weather.

BY MARK CORKE

U

nderstanding weather is more than just knowing if you’re going to have a sunny day out on the water. Weather is inextricably linked to boating; it behooves boaters to fully understand it so they can stay safe and not get caught in a potentially dangerous situation.

Anyone can tell you what the weather’s like by simply looking out the window, but the real trick is to be able to look forward, or forecast, with some degree of accuracy what’s likely to happen in the future — be it the next day, week or month.

Most folks are familiar with the television news or radio weather forecasts, but these reports are brief and cover a large general area. As such, they wind up being of limited value to boaters.

NOAA

Mark Corke is an accomplished journalist, author and sailor and creator of the popular blog onboardwithmarkcorke.com, focusing on various DIY boating projects.

16 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

If you know where to look, there’s a bewildering array of weather information available to boaters, and much of it’s free. NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ) is the government agency that provides weather information to other agencies and individuals. Their website can be hard to navigate, but there’s plenty of information available — everything a boater could want and then some.

NOAA provides dedicated small craft weather forecasts, which have information that includes wave heights, visibility and expected wind. It’s also possible to download synoptic charts for free, and these can be a boon — but only if you know what you’re looking at. I’ve found the best approach is to spend time at home or the office looking at the NOAA website, find links that are most appropriate to me and save these to my smart phone, so I can update my information on a regular basis while I’m out on the boat.

XM weather This only works if I’m in cell range, however. For reliable weather information offshore, it’s best to use satellites.

The best known source is the XM weather service, which is subscription-based and costs between $10 and $50 per month, depending on the amount and detail of information required. In addition to paying the monthly service fee, you also need a compatible receiver. For many boaters, it’s possible to integrate XM weather into their chartplotters or multi-function displays.

Despite advances in modern-day technology, good ol’ sailors’ wisdom still holds water. “Red sky at night, sailors delight; red sky in the morning, sailors take warning” and “When rain comes before the wind, halyards, sheets and braces mind; but when wind comes before rain, soon you may make sail again,” are just two examples.

It’s easy to dismiss these rhymes as folklore, but there’s a lot of truth to them. In the days of clipper ships, there was virtually no way to forecast weather. Ship captains had to rely on their own knowledge and experience.

Barometers Apart from making observations about the wind and sky, keeping an accurate barometer aboard is a useful forecasting tool; sadly, however, they’re often treated as little more than a bulkhead ornament. But barometers can provide boaters with useful information.

Most barometers have designations on the face such as “fair,” “cloudy,” “stormy,” and so on. Honestly, these are more for decoration than anything else. To be of use to the yachtsman, readings from the barometer should be taken at regular intervals, say, every hour, and then readings recorded in a log book. From there, the captain can form a clearer mental picture of what the weather is likely to do. A sudden drop in barometric pressure over a few hours time almost always foretells unsettled weather is coming.

There’s no doubt about it: Weather is a fascinating subject, and one that has a huge impact on the lives of boaters. One book I can recommend for further study is “The Yachtsman’s Weather Guide” by Ingrid Holford.

This book has been in print for some years now, but it’s interesting reading and does a good job showing you how to make sense of all those squiggly lines on a weather chart.

PHOTOS BY MARK CORKE

the chandlery GOING GLOBAL A prince in the country of Dubai is now the proud owner of several Jet Dock drive-on docking systems for his high-performance boats. Manufactured at the company’s headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, and shipped and installed overseas by corporate staff, the Dubai systems feature dry-docking for a 40-foot and 50-foot boat in two marina basins.

“We ship and install anywhere in the world,” says William Beatty, Jet Dock director of sales.

“If there’s water, we’ll be there.”

Jet Dock manufactures a wide range of boat lifts and drive-on docking systems. The modular, floating, drive-on dry lifting system is fully portable, and can be used in deep or shallow water, fresh or salt, and regardless of tide, current and wave conditions. Most systems can be installed within a week’s time; larger systems can take up to a month.

When it comes to durability, Jet Dock is tops. Many customers reported good results leaving their drive-on docking systems in the water and ice for winter. While mooring poles may need to be removed, the Jet Dock itself simply pops up onto the ice and won’t sustain damage like more traditional dock or lift systems. Leaving the system installed turns out to be a big time saver for boaters, while completely eliminating the hassle of haul-out.

Each Jet Dock comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Contact the company for pricing. jetdock.com

LIGHTEN THE LOAD Everyone knows launching and retrieving your dinghy can be a pain in the you-know-what. Lots of tugging and lugging and pulling and struggling.

Why not simplify the process by installing the innovative ProDav Swivel Davit System on your swim platform. Made from 6061T6 high quality marine-grade aluminum, stainless steel fasteners, polyethylene rails and white powder coating for maintenance-free care, ProDav’s unique system makes loading and launching your dinghy a hassle-free experience.

To launch, simply swivel, tilt and slide your dinghy effortlessly into the water.

Retrieval is just as easy. Winch your dinghy straight up the ProDav System, swivel and secure. Voilá— your dinghy’s back on the swim platform, safe and sound.

And if you’re looking to quickly free up space on the swim platform, no worries.

Removing the system is a cinch. Just pull the two pins to release and enjoy full swim platform use in seconds.

Photos and video demonstrating

proper installation and use of the system are available on the company website, or for a live demonstration, visit the ProDav booth at the Progressive Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show, January 12-16 in Chicago, or at the Progressive Miami International Boat Show, February 16-20 in Miami Beach. The system is available in black or white to best match your boat’s color scheme. $1,795. prodav . net

AS VITAL AS

VISION XMWXweather.com

With XM WX Satellite Weather, anglers receive instant graphical data to spot choppy waters and threatening skies.

Ask your favorite dealer today about XM WX Satellite Weather and see what we have to offer!

Exclusive FishBytes™ Technology available throughout the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico.

321-751-9202 8AM-5PM EST

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gear guru

Decked Out

Must-pack items for your next boating vacation. BY Z UZANA PROCHAZ KA ACR ELECTRONICS ResQLink PLB > If you’re into downsized electronics, check out the new ACR ResQLink 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). It’s less than four inches long and weighs just under five ounces. The small but powerful ResQLink is a GPS-enabled rescue beacon designed for anglers, sailors, pilots and backcountry adventurers. Slip it in your pocket when you’re out boating, knowing you’ve got a much better chance of getting rescued, even at night. Once activated, ResQLink relays your position to a worldwide network of search and rescue satellites, and a built-in LED strobe light provides visibility during night rescues. In a distress situation, you deploy the wraparound antenna and press the ON button. Company testers supposedly had to do this with gloved hands to make sure that even cold, numb fingers could activate the

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device. With its 66-channel GPS and 121.5 MHz local homing signal, ResQLink is accurate to within 300 feet or less of your position. Two built-in tests allow you to verify that ResQLink is functioning and ready for use. There are no subscription fees unless you opt for the ability to test through the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. The expected battery life once turned on is 30 hours. The new ResQLink is waterproof to 16 feet, but it does not float; it has an optional neoprene case you can pack it in. ACR not only compressed the physical size of this PLB, but it also took about $100 off the price. The new version retails for around $280. ACRELECTRONICS.COM

HENRI LLOYD Octogrip Stealth Deck Shoes You don’t have to be a round-the-world sailor to benefit from breathable deck shoes with a firm grip on a wet deck. Henri Lloyd, maker of all sorts of offshore gear, apparel and footwear, offers a lightweight athletic shoe that gives you a Spidey-grip even in wet conditions. The Octogrip Stealth (how cool is that name!) is a fast-drying trainer made of injection molded rubber and a breathable mesh upper, so wetness comes in and goes out just as easily. The shoe is super light, has a reinforced rear footplate and provides a bit of cushioned comfort, so you can wear these all day long and not punish your dogs. The shoe was developed to be extra flexible and move with your feet, thereby reducing fatigue. The sticky rubber outer sole has water dispersal channels that work to push water away from the underside of your foot. The Octogrip Stealth is non-absorbing and breathable, so you’re also less likely to develop funk with prolonged use. The Octogrip Stealth comes in a dark carbon color and retails for $109.

Sorry, ladies; for now it looks like the Octogrip’s mostly a guy’s product, although if you’ve got a wider foot, you might get away with buying a small size. HENRILLOYDUSA.COM

FITNESS TECHNOLOGIES UWaterG2 Waterproof MP3 Player ZUZANA PROCHAZKA is a U.S. Coast Guard 100 Ton Master with 20 years boating experience. Her work has appeared in numerous national boating magazines, and she authors a popular gear and boat review blog, TalkOfTheDock.com.

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Here’s a new way to take your tunes with you wherever you may travel. The UWaterG2 from Fitness Technologies is perhaps the tiniest MP3 player available — in size that is, not in ability. Weighing in at just an ounce, the UWaterG2 measures approximately ½-inch by one inch by two inches, but it packs a punch with 2GB of flash memory capable of storing almost 600 songs. You also can load audio books and get six to eight hours of continuous play from the lithium-ion battery before needing to charge up via a USB cable (included). But here’s the real kicker: Unlike other MP3 players, the UWaterG2 is waterproof to IPX 8 standards, so you can take it anywhere your iPod doesn’t dare.

Bring it with you to the beach or pool or take it kayaking.

It comes with a handy clip that attaches to an included arm/headband, or secure it to your belt, swimming goggles or swimsuit. You can even snorkel with it because it’s waterproof to 10 feet. The UWaterG2 is Windows and Mac compatible, so you can use any platform to upload and manage your library. It even has a color LED control panel. The unique Twist & Lock earphones jack ensures a watertight seal and prevents corrosion. The package includes a USB cable, silicone ear bud sets, a clip and a manual. It comes in five colors and retails for the micro-sized price of $60.

FITNESSTECHUSA.COM

electronics

Game Changer

BY ROG E R MCAFE E

Inmarsat’s IsatPhone Pro helps redefine satellite telephone communications.

M

any exciting new marine products introduced to the consumer boating market with fanfare often fade into obscurity within the first 12 months of release, and several disappear completely. Others catch on, stay strong and sell well. And then there are those few product releases that redefine their individual market segment and push pre-existing products to do more — and do it better.

Just over a year ago, Inmarsat, one of the world’s largest providers of satellite services, launched its IsatPhone Pro, among the first of its consumer products. The 10-ounce, handheld phone brought serious competition to the personal satellite phone market.

Readers of this column (February 2011, “The 411 on VHF Radios,” p. 13) will remember the then-new phone was Bluetooth enabled, had an eight-hour talk time and a 100-hour standby time on a single, three-and-a-half hour charge. It automatically acquired a GPS fix that could be sent either as a text message or an e-mail.

Even more remarkable, the phone retailed for about $600 and talk time was approximately $1 a minute — with no long distance or roaming charges.

After its first year in the marketplace, Inmarsat’s IsatPhone has literally redefined its market segment, bringing marine satellite telephone communications to a whole new level.

Recent upgrades Part way through the phone’s first year on the market, Inmarsat, which does not sell satellite airtime directly to the consumer, announced the availability of third-party data applications that ran at 20 KBPS on plain text e-mail. Inmarsat’s partner network then introduced a range of data applications for the phone.

At the recent Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, held October 27-31, 2011, Inmarsat put more pressure on the market with the announcement of new

hardware. This hardware was developed by one of Inmarsat’s partners — in this case the Australian manufacturer Beam — and allows for the fixed mounting of the handheld phone inside a vessel. An external antenna is part of the package. There are two mounting options, costing between $1,900 and $2,300.

The real pressure, however, is on the providers of airtime services. The cost of outgoing usage time has fallen to about 80 cents per minute for voice and 55 cents per minute for SMS texting. Coverage is worldwide on Inmarsat’s own geosynchronous satellite constellation. The system also features the marine equivalent of 911.

Dialing 505 connects the user with an emergency center.

A sat phone owner can obtain airtime service from anyone who sells it. The Internet provides information on all major worldwide airtime providers, and many of them compete aggressively for business. Some providers have already adopted the cell phone airtime provider approach. If the phone owner subscribes to the right plan, one provider will actually retail the IsatPhone Pro for a mere $99. Within the coming months, other retailers are likely to follow suit.

There’s no question that within this last year, satellite handsets have become much more prevalent. Prices for both hardware and airtime will continue to fall, and phone features will continue expanding.

Satellite phones are an affordable safety feature that every boater should consider having on board.

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boat test

Cruisers A true groundbreaking Great Lakes design.

BY DAVE MULL

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boat test

41 Cantius

W

hen Jon Viestenz, product and regional sales manager for Cruisers Yachts, told me the company’s new 41 Cantius had some trend-setting differences, he wasn’t kidding. I met up with Viestenz and Gene Gooding, the Cruisers sales rep from Ohio, at SkipperBud’s in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, on a fine late August morning, where they were preparing to sea trial and photograph this beauty.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CRUISERS YACHTS

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From stem to stern, the 41 Cantius had some never-beforeseen features and an overall feeling of the “next step” for people desirous of a cruiser that’s affordable to run. It packed a lot — two staterooms and two heads — into a 41-foot boat, while still delivering lots of living space.

“When you think of 40-footers, there’s just so much difference in this design that we’ve created a segment that isn’t out there yet,” Viestenz said in the course of walking me through. While the nice, innovative details are manifold, the big difference Viestenz was talking about is the open layout, effectively combining an express cruiser design with an aft cabin — although the second cabin is more amidships. The boat can be as open and airy as you want, or as cozy and protected from the elements as you need.

With sliding doors open, folks in the cockpit are in easy contact with people forward, but on the same level around the helm. Airiness is created with a giant sunroof that slides open, plus power-actuated vents to port and starboard.

“We wanted that express-style feeling that brings lots of outside inside,” Viestenz said.

But the first thing anyone would probably notice about this boat when seeing it for the first time are two bar stools on the swim platform. Talk about a feature that likely has other boatbuilders slapping collective foreheads and wondering why they didn’t think of it first. The concept makes great use of a space that tends to be vacant when a boat is docked at the marina. The two easily removable seats provide a place to sip a beverage with an actual bartop on the transom. This lifts to expose a large storage unit that can handle four big fenders and is dedicated storage for the cockpit table pedestals.

You can tell this boat was designed with lots of input from actual boaters. Underneath the bartop/storage lid are PHOTOS COURTESY OF CRUISERS YACHTS

clips for your long-handle scrub brush, and on the sides of the storage compartment are hooks for lines. LED lights provide illumination and accent lighting for the platform, too, and the washdown hook-up also is in this compartment.

Cool stuff ensues as you head forward into the cockpit, where the port seat doubles as a sun lounge. Lift the sun lounge’s padded end that serves as a pillow, and you find a compartment with a medium-size, easily removable wastebasket underneath. Also underneath the lounge is dedicated storage for the cockpit’s two table tops. Set both up for dining, or just one when you want more floor space.

Starboard is a fiberglass storage component that provides stowage, but also allows you to install a cockpit grill (which the test boat had) and an ice maker, or a side-by-side refrigerator/freezer.

Viestenz lifted the engine room hatch on the cockpit sole while talking about the boat’s power.

“This boat is powered by twin D6, Volvo 370 horse sterndrives.”

Wait a minute. Sterndrives in a 40-footer?

“Yes; we don’t even offer inboards as an option,” Viestenz said. “You also can get IPS drives, but inboards aren’t as efficient and won’t work with a joystick. The customer for this boat is going to be younger and going to want the latest technology.”

The engine room offered is surprisingly, well, roomy.

Headroom was 50 inches, and the space was well lit, with ample room between the power plants for regular checks.

Down here is where you’ll find the Kohler 13.5 kW generator, which is standard — and bigger than what many boats of similar size offer. Everything is nicely labeled here to boot.

The sole of our test boat was real teak; options include carpet and synthetic Flexiteek. Viestenz noted another design

The forward master stateroom offers a queen island berth complete with plenty of storage (opposite). Relaxing aboard the 41 Cantius comes standard, thanks to the cockpit’s luxurious seating and open layout (above).

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The master head boasts fullstanding headroom, separate shower and plenty of natural light and ventilation (top left). The guest stateroom also includes a private head complete with separate vanity (top right). Among the boat’s most innovative features are the swim platform bar/dining area, state-of-the-art helm and modern galley (opposite).

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goal was to eliminate canvas. Although a camper canvas is optional, most users will enjoy not having to snap anything over the cockpit to protect the vinyl seating material. Instead, each piece of furniture has its own cover that easily slides over.

As you step through the sliding doors toward the helm station, you see the portside, U-shaped sofa that provides seating for three or four passengers who can chat with the pilot while underway, or just use the interior space while at the marina for dining and relaxing. With the door open, this space effectively integrates with the outside cockpit, meaning folks inside can chat with folks outside.

Below, the forward master stateroom offers a queen island berth, plenty of storage and six feet, nine inches of headroom — seven feet at the foot of the bed. Viestenz pointed out that all of the flooring is fiberglass — no plywood anywhere. The master head provides full-standing headroom, separate shower and opening port holes for natural light and ventilation.

The midship guest stateroom features split bunk accommodations. After Viestenz demonstrated how easily these bunks convert into a queen berth, he showed how the systems wiring can be accessed behind panels on the bulkheads. All wiring is clearly labeled, too. This berth has a private head with separate vanity.

The galley somewhat separates the cook from the rest of the party topside, but the overwhelming positive aspects to this Cantius design make up for it. The galley boasts plenty of counter space, a convection/microwave oven, big sink and two-burner stovetop.

We took the boat for a cruise toward the Bay of Green Bay, which the boat had traversed through five- and six- footers the day before to get to the dealer confab at Sturgeon Bay. The yacht performed politely with its twin outdrives and got on plane with minimal bow lift.

If you wanted to get somewhere quickly, you could. We achieved 40 mph and cruised quickly, getting more than a mile per gallon at 35 mph. Trimming the outdrives made a difference; trimmed up, we were burning 31 gallons per hour, and trimmed down we fed the twin diesels at a rate of 33 gallons per hour. The boat handled extremely well, and was easy to dock with the joystick.

Cruisers has a long tradition of boatbuilding, starting in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, back in 1904 as the Thompson Brothers Boat Manufacturing Company, which evolved into a factory with a 15,000-square-foot indoor factory showroom in Oconto, Wisconsin. Tradition seems as important as customer care and service, and the whole company exudes a feeling of family.

For instance, the boat’s name originates from the first name of current CEO Casey Stock’s father, Cantius. It was chosen through an employee contest, Viestenz said.

As a maker of yachts near the Great Lakes, you can bet Cruisers Yachts’ creations take into account how good design can lengthen a short boating season with cold-weather considerations, too.

There’s a lot more to say about this model. Make sure you request a thorough sea trial at one of Cruisers’ Great Lakes dealers. r

Cruisers Cantius 41

Standard Equipment Anchor roller; mooring bit and cleat; berth, twin bunks (converts to queen); boarding gate; anti-fouling bottom paint; welded stainless steel bow rail; cockpit carpeting; cockpit shower (hot/cold); dockside water inlet; drink holders; compass; digital depth finder w/ premium electronics; exterior furniture weather covers; extended swim platform w/ boarding ladder; transom bar top w/ 2 bar stools; windlass (foredeck foot switch, anchor, 30' of 5/16" chain, and 126' of 5/8" line); windshield wipers w/ windshield washer; electric refrigerator/freezer; 2-burner electric stove; 220 V microwave oven; remote spotlight; hardtop w/ sliding sunroof; tri-slide helm door; power actuated starboard/port air vents; double helm captain seat; helm companion dinette/lounge and tables.

Specifications

GREAT LAKES CRUISERS DEALERS

LOA (w/ swim platform): 42'8"

North Shore Marina Spring Lake, Michigan 616-604-0234 northshoremarina.com

Bridge clearance: 13' Draft (IPS): 43" Fuel: 300 gals.

Water: 75 gals.

Holding Tank Capacity: 50 gals.

Weight (dry): 25,000 lbs.

Power: T-Volvo Penta D6 370 hp Base Price: Contact dealer

cruisersyachts.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CRUISERS YACHTS

SkipperBudâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multiple locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan and Ohio 888-334-6739 skipperbuds.com Spring Brook Marina Seneca, Illinois 815-357-8666 springbrookmarina.com

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boat spotlight

Avalon Windjammer 26 RL

Taking pontoons to the next level.

Specifications LOA: 26' Pontoon Diameter: 3 25" pontoons Beam: 8.5' Draft: 12" Weight (dry): 3,300 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 42 gals.

Max Capacity: 14 people/2,350 lbs.

Max. HP: 300 hp Base Price: $31,424 avalonpontoons.com

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T

he rear lounge pontoon is not new to pontoon boaters, but the Avalon Windjammer RL adds the next level of features to the rear lounge design without adding to the boat’s overall price tag.

As the only standard triple pontoon version on the market, Avalon’s Windjammer RL is a solid performer and far more versatile than the average rear lounge pontoon boat. The boat’s triple pontoons feature Avalon’s exclusive Waveglider technology, designed to create extreme lift and speed. Also included are hydraulic steering and a large, 42-gallon fuel capacity.

Versatility aside, the real appeal of a rear lounge boat is comfort and style. The Windjammer has one of the largest, most plush rear lounge sofas in the industry. But that’s not even the boat’s best feature. Each individual lounge is adjustable electrically at the touch of a button.

The large, comfy seatbacks adjust all the way down to act as a sleeper bed, or tilt up to just the right comfortable angle to allow for viewing the entire lake, relaxing at the sandbar, or enjoying a peaceful afternoon sun tanning.

Each lounge is wide enough for two people to share.

The Windjammer RL includes Avalon’s Helmsman Fiberglass Drivers Stand with full gauge panel featuring black sterling tachometer, voltmeter and fuel gauge; Jensen high-power MSR3007 CD stereo with MP3 plug; and four high-power Jensen speakers with platinum speaker

covers. Additional drivers stand features include surface storage trays for cell phone and other personal items, wood-grain tilt steering wheel with brilliant aluminum, non-directional spokes, and Seastar hydraulic steering.

The drivers chair swivels and reclines with arms that remain level. Plush furniture includes lounge arms with storage, and furnishings are created using exclusive Matrix 50 marine upholstery. The Windjammer RL also includes a wine rack, cooler and privacy station.

All this, plus the standard dock lights, 10-foot Bimini top with one-touch quick release lock and full mooring cover make this a fully equipped rear lounge pontoon that should be high on your list of priorities to check out.

The Windjammer RL is the centerpiece of three levels of rear loungers available from Avalon. If you desire a more opulent pontoon than the Windjammer RL, consider the Avalon Ambassador; if a more affordable model is what you desire, check out the Avalon Catalina DRL.

boat spotlight

Sea Ray 410 Sundancer

Customization is king aboard this new sport yacht.

BY ZUZANA PROCHAZKA

F

lexibility is the mantra with Sea Ray’s newest in their Sport Yacht series, the 2012 Sea Ray 410 Sundancer.

“The 410 is really a transition size from our Sport Cruiser line to the Sport Yachts, so we emphasize flexibility in this premium brand,” says Rob Noyes, Sea Ray’s director of marketing. Various options the 410 Sundancer provides include exterior design features, engine selection and interior layout, so you can create a boat to suit your specific needs.

The most noticeable malleable feature is the cabin top, which comes in three flavors: The standard sport arch and canvas, optional open hardtop with canvas, or optional enclosed hardtop with electric front vents and available sunroof. Whether you’re up for lots of sun and breeze or want the protection and comfort of an air-conditioned or heated helm area, you have a choice.

The second major consideration is propulsion. The 410 Sundancer is available in diesel only and comes with standard twin 425-hp Cummins MerCruiser Diesel QSB 8.3 425 V-drives. You also can opt for twin diesel engines with Zeus pod drives and a helm joystick. The Zeus option adds a bit more to the base price, but it’s a feature that builds confidence even in new boaters who are looking for control and easy maneuvering in tight quarters.

Below, the Sea Ray 410 provides another place to customize your new vessel. The bright interior comes standard with one stateroom and two heads. The master forward includes a full-size island berth with Visco foam mattress and an electrically activated backrest that allows for comfortable viewing of the 22-inch flat screen TV. A head compartment with separate shower stall has a VacuFlush toilet and its own entrance from this cabin.

The galley amidships offers a stainless steel refrigerator/ freezer, two-burner stove and a microwave. Its location fits nicely into the salon that also has a large sofa and table. Just aft is a standard dinette with a fold-down table, but this area also can be made into a second cabin with a pocket door and two single berths.

So many variables in a production boat are rare and highlight Sea Ray’s attention to owner feedback. There are many features that come standard, including an Onan 9 kW genset, anchor washdown, nearly 150 square feet of storage throughout and more. But in case you’re not done personalizing your Sundancer 410, consider other options such as air conditioning, six interior finishes, additional TVs and DVD players, rod holders and a sun pad with an adjustable backrest on the forward deck.

The 410 Sundancer joins Sea Ray’s other 40 models ranging from 17 to 60 feet that are manufactured in the company’s Knoxville, Tennessee, headquarters.

“The 410 replaces the 390 Sundancer,” adds Noyes. “We sell boats into many markets and need to think about all the different ways owners will use them.”

Specifications LOA (w/swim platform): 41'6" Beam: 13' Draft (inboards): 44" Draft (Zeus): 44" Weight (w/inboards, dry): 27,724 lbs.

Weight (w/Zeus, dry): 25,875 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 255 gals.

Water Capacity: 60 gals.

Power: T-Cummins MerCruiser diesel QSB 425 hp Base Price: Contact dealer searay.com

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boat spotlight

Formula 290 FX4

Retro-chic looks combined with top speeds.

BY ZUZANA PROCHAZKA

Specifications LOA: 29' Beam: 9' Draft: 40" Weight: 8,950 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 122 gals.

Water Capacity: 21 gals.

Power: T-MerCruiser 377 MAG Bravo III Base Price: Contact dealer formulaboats.com

28 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

W

hen Formula introduced its new lineup, the first of the series was the 290 FX4. Designer John Adams pulled out all the stops and created a sleek head-turner with retro lines like a stylish roadster and all the power of a contemporary race car.

Combined with Formula’s attention to detail, the result is a fast, posh and good looking new sport boat that will give pause to even the most advanced European designers.

For 2012, this performance focused line also features larger models, including the 310 FX5, 350 FX6, 370 FX7 and 400 FX8.

The 290 FX4 hull transitions smoothly from a high bow to a low transom. The Imron FX graphic and silver diamond pearl paint is optional, but both add to the retro look. A continuous tinted, tempered curved-glass windshield provides a center walkthrough and an easy transition from the molded steps next to the helm to the nonskid center walkway on deck leading to the concealed fiberglass anchor locker. Impressive design elements include stainless rails over the intake vents and the concealed air horn in the port vent.

The helm exudes old-style class and looks as if James Bond himself might suddenly appear clad in a smoking jacket, volunteering his services as your personal driver.

The carbon fiber and clear overlay dash features a tilt steering wheel in silver or blue with chrome accents.

Livorsi Oversized Mega gauges and tachs gleam in their bezels, and illuminated rocker switches and chrome shifters/throttles complete a neat and organized helm.

The cockpit is a continuous molded liner also treated with high gloss silver diamond pearl metallic paint finish.

The dual helm seat starboard is just ahead of a U-shaped lounge with a built-in Igloo cooler and a hi/lo table that

transforms this space into a sunpad. Another lounge pad is aft between the fender storage compartment starboard and a portside transom walkthrough from the swim platform. On port is an entertainment center with a sink, another Igloo cooler, trash bin and a safety rail. A bench seat to port completes an exterior layout that makes this boat feel much longer than 29 feet, and liberal use of blue LED accent lighting makes it positively glow in the dark.

The cabin of the 29-footer features an Ultraleather covered V-shape lounge, full entertainment center with a Clarion stereo and an optional TV/DVD mounted on the forward bulkhead. The center table drops down to make a berth. To starboard is a head compartment with Corian countertops. Entry is via a sliding and lockable companionway hatch. The steps and cabinetry are finished in a warm cherry wood grain, and there is plenty of light and air flowing through two overhead Bomar hatches.

Plenty of power is provided by twin Mercury 320 hp 377 engines with Bravo III outdrives. The engine cover is electric and when lifted provides good access all around.

Top speed for the 290 FX4 is right around 55 mph, with the engines burning about 50 gallons per hour. At a cruising speed of 30 mph, you can expect a range of 160 miles.

The Formula 290 FX4 is a speedy and sporty machine that will get you wherever you’re going — in a hurry.

But it’s Formula’s finish and flair that will start everyone on the dock talking.

boat spotlight

Tiara 3600 Coronet

A smart and stylish dayboat that’s so much more. BY ZUZANA PROCHAZKA

A

lthough billed as a dayboat, it would be unfair to pigeonhole the new Tiara 3600 Coronet into just one category. With its oversized dual cockpits, complete interior and top performance, this boat can do it all.

The second and largest Coronet in the Tiara series, the 3600 is a completely new sport cruiser that lives up to Tiara’s reputation for building fast, stylish boats with comprehensive standard equipment and a plethora of additional options.

The 3600 Coronet offers two drive choices: Traditional inboard or ZF pod drives. There also is a choice of power: Twin Mercury 375 hp gas engines or Cummins 380 hp diesels. It’s good to have choices, although nothing quite beats the fun, maneuverability and control offered by pod drives. Additional options include a hardtop with standard sunroof or canvas soft top, exterior teak accent package, Garmin electronics and a variety of hull colors.

Standard features include a Tiara custom composite windshield frame with tempered safety glass and opening center vent, radar arch, 45-inch swim platform and molded-in fiberglass bow pulpit. The helm station in the upper cockpit (56 square feet) features the Tiara EZ Tilt-Away helm console, a double-wide helm seat and a curved companion lounge.

An entertainment center with sink and drawer refrigerator (optional electric grill) is aft of the helm seat. The lower cockpit (72 square feet) provides more seating.

The entire presentation is a testament to Tiara’s top-notch fit and finish in a sleek and contemporary package.

Down below, the 3600 Coronet proves it’s more than just a dayboat, as it offers a sizeable salon with teak interior (maple is optional) and a solid teak hardwood sole. Forward is a private master stateroom followed by a full galley and an aft cabin settee/sleeper. The master stateroom has a double pedestal berth, folding teak entry door and a 19-inch flat screen LCD TV. The galley features Corian countertops, sink, microwave, one-burner electric cook top and refrigerator. The settee converts to a berth and includes a privacy curtain, and the head includes a shower with glass door, sink and VacuFlush toilet. Other creature comforts include a Clarion AM/FM/CD stereo with cockpit remote and a Marine Air 12,000 BTU air conditioner with reverse cycle heat.

David Slikkers, CEO of Holland, Michigan-based S2 Yachts, Tiara’s parent company, notes Tiara’s focus on customer service. One way to continually improve designs is to seek feedback from new owners, he maintains. This way, Tiara can make useful tweaks in its models, fold the owner intoTiara’s family and make them feel like a part of the process.

Whether you call the new Tiara 3600 Coronet a dayboat, sport cruiser or self-sufficient weekender, you’ll be right — so why limit your outlook on a boat with so many personalities.

Specifications LOA: 38'11" Beam: 13'3" Draft (w/props or pods): 3' Weight (dry): 19,100 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 350 gals.

Water Capacity: 70 gals.

Power: T-MerCruiser 375 hp gas engines Base Price: Contact dealer tiarayachts.com

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Secret Getaway

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Explore the exquisite, oft-overlooked charter grounds of Southwest Florida.

BY CHRIS CASWEL L

The conversation between my wife, She Who Must Be Obeyed, and I went something like this: SWMBO: “Do you think he’s standing there?”

Me: “The chart says there’s plenty of water where he’s standing.”

SWMBO: “That may be, but I don’t think that bird has legs five feet long!”

PHOTO BY DAVE MEARDON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SANIBAL & CAPTIVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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WE WERE A COUPLE OF DAYS into a most delightful bareboat charter on Florida’s West Coast, and we’d already learned two things: Pay attention to the charts and stay away from areas where birds are standing.

We were exploring the waters out of Fort Myers, Florida, aboard one of the charter yachts from Southwest Florida Yachts (SWFY), and it was absolutely spectacular.

The west coast of Florida is one of those secret cruising grounds that are overlooked because they are just so darn convenient. No passports, no foreign airports, no hassles with provisions and, though you’re in the Deep South, not too much of a language barrier.

If you automatically think of Caribbean islands or South Pacific atolls when you say the words “bareboat charters,” well, you’re really missing out. Imagine sandy beaches littered with beautiful shells, quiet anchorages and great marinas.

And, whether your tastes run toward pub-hopping until the wee hours or finding a beach with no footprints except your own, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re accustomed to bareboat chartering in the Caribbean, this is a

different animal. First, there are no fleets of cookie-cutter, look-alike boats. Southwest Florida Yachts has an eclectic fleet of privately owned yachts, which they manage in their charter program. In their power fleet, these range from a 28-foot Albin day cruiser through several Grand Banks of various sizes, to Mainships.

Our choice was a Mainship 43 named And Everywhere, after the Beatles 1966 hit, “Here, There, and Everywhere,” which, in fact, became the perfect description for our charter voyage. With two private staterooms (each with ensuite heads and showers) and a sleeper sofa, it’s perfect for two couples plus kids.

SWFY has a great policy that allows charterers to spend the night before their charter begins aboard their chosen boat. Not only does that save the cost of a hotel room, but it also allows time to unpack, get checked out on the boat and do a little last-minute provisioning at a nearby Publix.

If you’ve chartered a few times, you know that charter companies can vary widely, both in their offerings and in the level of maintenance. Vic and Barb Hansen have owned SWFY for more than 20 years, and believe me, they run a tight ship. Before a boat even gets into their fleet, it first has to pass a thorough survey; then it has

If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, local color and a host of fun activities, then a bareboat charter in Southwest Florida is right up your alley. The author chose to host his adventure with Vic and Barb Hansen’s Southwest Florida Yachts out of Fort Myers, Florida.

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TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS MIDDLE & BOTTOM PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/FORTMYERSSANIBEL.COM

to be equipped to a high standard to meet the Hansen’s requirements.

In the case of And Everywhere, that meant all the expected items, from towels and bedding to local charts and guidebooks.

But our yacht also had such niceties as a new propane barbecue, an Avon RIB on a hydraulic platform, a fiberglass hardtop for sun protection, and a suite of Raymarine electronics that included chartplotter and radar. I appreciated the 44-pound Bruce anchor (perfect for these waters) on a Lewmar windlass with 100 feet of chain rode. Since Florida nights can sometimes be steamy (and buggy), our crew enjoyed three-zone MarineAir A/C, and SWMBO was happy in her fully-equipped, all-electric galley. This was a swell ship, not a hell ship.

Getting Underway Our Mainship was in absolutely pristine condition when we arrived, and our check-out covered everything from how to launch the tender to where to find the best cheeseburgers. I have to admit: I was impressed by several file boxes neatly indexed with the manuals for every piece of equipment on board.

SWFY has two charter bases, but they keep their power fleet in Fort Myers on the Caloosahatchee River, which locals shorten to “The River” for obvious reasons. Convenient to major airports and highways, this is about 10 miles upstream from the start of the cruising grounds of southwest Florida.

Charterers need venture no further than the very doorstep of Fort Myers and, once off the river, you enter Pine Island Sound, a cruising wonderland. About 15 miles long and four miles wide, the Sound is protected by the barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva from the Gulf of Mexico. You could spend a delightful week without ever leaving Pine Island Sound, sampling a different anchorage or marina every evening, hunting for shells or simply floating in bathtub-warm water gazing at the cerulean sky.

We dawdled on the Caloosahatchee, looking at the sprawling homes that were once winter retreats for the likes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

We weren’t hurried for a couple of reasons. First, unlike the Caribbean, we weren’t racing to get a decent anchorage in a crowded harbor. There are more than enough coves and marinas to go around. And second, I was acquainting myself with the chartplotter and depth sounder.

Because, you see, these are thin waters. Vic Hansen’s motto for charterers is: “White is all TOP AND MIDDLE PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/FORTMYERSSANIBEL.COM BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS

The Roseat Spoonbill is a prevalent and majestic presence in Southwest Florida.

Picnic Key (pictured at left) is well protected from prevailing breezes and is a great stop for the afternoon. The author had a swell time exploring the area aboard a wellmaintained Mainship 43 from Southwest Florida Yachts (bottom).

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’Tween Waters Island Resort (top) is a beautiful place to kick back, relax and catch up on some shell collecting. Cabbage Key bar boasts “the most expensive wallpaper in the world.” Some say between $40,000 and $60,000 litter the bar walls (bottom).

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right, blue review.” Look at your chart, and you’ll see that deeper water is shown in white, while shallow water is blue.

If you’re planning to tiptoe into the blue zones (which you will), review the chart beforehand. Carefully.

Our sounder didn’t read much over 10 feet for most of our trip. We did slide through a few skinny water places where I could clearly see the bottom with my Polaroid sunglasses, but we never touched. According to the Hansens, even an occasional touch is rarely a problem because the bottom is generally soft mud or sand.

You also must pay attention to the buoys, even with your chartplotter, because they don’t make sense to those of us used to “red-right-returning.”

In this case, the mnemonic is “red-right-returning-to-Texas” because you’re cruising on the Intracoastal Waterway, which has its own buoyage rules.

Weaving our way through fleets of anglers drift-fishing in small boats (and supplied with beer and bait by an entrepreneur aboard a pontoon boat shop), we

stopped for a lazy lunch at the perfectly named Picnic Island, which is well protected from the prevailing breezes.

Our first night was spent in the marina at the Sanibel Harbour Resort, a luxury resort recently acquired and upgraded by Marriott. We’d stayed at the resort on several occasions, since boatbuilders often use the marina for new model debuts, and found the marina was quiet and friendly. Even the skipper of the hotel’s dinner cruise yacht checked in later to make sure we were comfortably settled.

The next day we headed northwards along the Intracoastal (towards Texas) and had our first encounter with the wild dolphin on Pine Island Sound, which amused themselves (and us) by playing in our bow and stern waves. Talking to other skippers, it seems that the dolphin simply love boats, and nearly everyone on these waters has several encounters with them.

The electric anchor windlass was worth its weight when we dropped a lunch hook at Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island, which is home to more than 200 species of birds, including the Bald Eagle.

At ’Tween Waters Island Resort, we picked up a transient slip at the low key marina and, true to its name, we could literally walk across the narrow isthmus to hunt for shells on

TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF ’TWEEN WATERS RESORT BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/FORTMYERSSANIBEL.COM

the long sandy ocean beach. Sanibel and Captiva islands are, of course, legendary worldwide for being repositories of shells, and we added many to our collection. That evening we were treated to a spectacular lightning display, and we tucked into our bunks with rain thundering on the decks. But the next morning, as always, was bright, warm and freshly washed.

Nearby South Seas Island Resort is at the tip of Captiva, and it was rebuilt and upgraded after being decimated by Hurricane Charley. Today, it has a glossy marina, cute shops and a huge waterpark for the kids.

Venturing on, we tucked in to Cabbage Key, a private resort known for the cheeseburger that allegedly inspired Jimmy Buffett to write “Cheeseburger In Paradise.”

Dubious as that distinction may be, if only because several dozen restaurants also claim that title, the fact is that their cheeseburger is well worth a visit: “Heaven on earth with an onion slice!”

Built in the 1930s as the home of mystery writer Mary Roberts Rinehart, Cabbage Key has another notable claim: The most expensive wallpaper in the world. The Cabbage Key bar, with its original hardwood floors and fireplace,

Things To Know Before You Go ■ Rates: Our Mainship 43 charters for five days at between $3,030 and $3,789, depending on the season. A security deposit of $2,500 covers the deductible for the provided insurance and is refunded promptly if no charges are incurred. Grand Banks 42s are the same rate.

■ Fuel: We didn’t run hard or use the

Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island is home to more than 200 species of birds, not to mention the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the region.

generator at night, so we used less than 50 gallons of diesel, which, with the required holding tank pump-out before returning the yacht, came to less than $200.

■ Provisions: Almost too easy. A Publix supermarket with everything you could possibly want is just down the street from the SWFY office, and many of the marinas also are close to markets for restocking during your trip.

■ Don’t Forget: Two swimsuits (so one can dry), lots of sunscreen and a good hat, Polaroid sunglasses for navigating, cameras to capture the wildlife and scenery, and tiny umbrellas to put in your piña coladas as you toast a most wonderful charter. — C.C.

TOP THREE PHOTOS COURTESY USFWS BOTTOM PHOTO BY DAVE MEARDON PHOTOGRAPHY / COURTESY OF SANIBAL & CAPTIVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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Southwest Florida Charter Resources Southwest Florida Yachts 3444 Marinatown La., NW North Fort Myers, FL 33903 800-262-7939 info@swfyachts.com swfyachts.com Chitwood Charters Docks at Hyatt Sarasota P.O. Box 4075 Sarasota, FL 34230 800-769-1399 captainjerry@ chitwood-charters.com chitwood-charters.com

is literally papered with thousands of autographed one-dollar bills. Guestimates place the value at between $40,000 and $60,000 but, hey, who’s counting. The owners gather up loose and falling bills and, when they reach $10,000, donate them to charity. A nice touch.

Nearby Useppa Island is a private island club (no cars — golf carts only), but with a great marina that is available to SWFY charterers, since the Hansens are members. Not far away is Pelican Bay, a delightful anchorage at the tip of Cayo Costa that’s a favorite among cruising skippers.

Further north is Charlotte Harbor and Gasparilla Sound, both with appealing anchorages and sites to explore, but we’ll save them for our next adventure with Southwest Florida Yachts.

It had been a delightful charter, made possible because of a good yacht, an attentive charter company and a wonderful cruising area.

Next time, I’m going to bring along a birdwatching guidebook, so I’ll know which ones have really long legs.

The Moorings 93 North Park Place Blvd.

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www.chitwood-charters.com PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU / FORTMYERSSANIBEL.COM

Gulf Harbour Marina Located on the Intracoastal Waterway in South Ft. Myers Florida

Gulf Harbour 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.

• Marina Boat Slips for Lease - 38', 48', 50', 60', 70' and T-Docks • 186 Slips Marina with concrete floating docks, pump-out, cable & electric • Marker 73 Café open to all residents of Gulf Harbour • Full time marina staff on-site 7 days a week • Gas and diesel fuel available in marina, discount for slip owners • Protected Yacht Basin by Intracoastal Barrier Island

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View from the top of Isla Coyote (Isla Pardito).

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Escape pressures of everyday life and find a renewed sense of peace and tranquility in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez

BY B I NG O ’ M EARA

PHOTO BY BING O’MEARA

39 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

The Moorings’ 47-foot Power Catamaran.

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i

f there was ever a time to get away for a spell, this is it. At home in the U.S., we’re dealing with a recession that won’t go away. We are in political turmoil, split down the middle; one half diametrically opposed to the other. Watch the news on television, and what you get is an opinion, usually the flip side of the one you hold. We’ve shipped our jobs overseas and have an unemployment rate above nine percent, even as high as 17 percent in some regions of the country. As a result, our nation of consumers are no longer consuming, and our middle class is hanging on by a thread. People are afraid and uptight, with very little light at the end of the tunnel.

So how do you cope? Get out of town! Go somewhere people are not obsessing over things they cannot control.

Where do you go for some relief?

Mexico. Specifically, the islands of the Sea of Cortez. That’s what we did, and what I would recommend for you if you’re feeling bottled up, unable to sleep, drinking Maalox by the quart, and making yourself sick every time you glance at the Dow Jones on your iPhone.

So, how do you get started on your adventure? First of all, dump technology. You won’t need it. I didn’t see anyone with an iPad or an iPhone. In the eight days we were there, I didn’t even see a newspaper. Sometimes, it’s nice to not know what’s going on. The criteria for getting away shouldn’t be where other people go; you want to get away from people like yourself. Go where the animals and fish go. This train of thought began as tongue in cheek; however, the more I get into it, the more I believe I’m actually onto something.

Linda and I were presented with an opportunity to charter a 47-foot Power Catamaran through The Moorings charter base in La Paz, Mexico, which is located at Costa Baja Marina. This is a beautiful place. After checking out of our hotel, we went to The Moorings office, which was located on site. We went through a briefing on itineraries, places not to miss, what was expected of us and what we could expect. We then moved to the boat for an orientation and walk-through.

Tom, a captain for The Moorings, went through all the boat systems: Water, plumbing, electrical, how everything worked. The boat itself was spotless and spacious, with its 47-foot length, 25-foot beam and 4½-foot draft.

You’ll spend almost no time tied up at the dock, except for a short stint at home base. Once underway, you can

ABOVE LEFT PHOTO BY BING O’MEARA ABOVE RIGHT PHOTO BY LINDA O’MEARA

Bing O’Meara, pubisher of Lakeland Boating magazine, relaxes on the hook.

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Whale watching on a tour with Fun Baja (top). Anchored in Isla San Francisco (middle). The blue-footed booby (bottom) is a species native to this area.

42 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

expect anchoring out in magnificent coves with white sugar-sand bottoms.

Los Islotes is famous for its sea lion rookery. Snorkelers and scuba divers have been frequenting these rocky outcroppings for years to experience swimming with sea lions and their pups.

Los Islotes are two islets connected by an awash reef with depths down to 60 feet. Because of the depth and rocky bottom, I did not want to drop anchor.

Linda insisted she wanted to experience swimming with the sea lions. I backed the boat as close as I thought safe, and Linda dove in.

She swam with the pups until an 800-pound male slid off his rock; it was time to climb back aboard.

The Sea of Cortez offers unlimited experiences you can take advantage of, whether you’re chartering or simply looking to explore the region. Sea & Adventures Inc. is a sea kayak and whale watching eco-tour outfitter.

Their expeditions along the coast and islands between La Paz and Loreto Bay National Marine Park have been highlighted as the “ultimate Baja California kayaking safari” by National Geographic Adventure magazine.

Their expeditions range from self-supported for the more adventurous to skiff-supported expeditions, adding comfort and luxury to your adventure.

We crossed paths with people who were just finishing their fourth kayaking camping trip with Sea Adventures, and could not say enough good things about their experience.

Another option for adventure is Fun Baja, a tour company that can provide an individualized tour package to meet your needs. They offer combination diving and camping trips, scuba certification programs from beginner to advanced, snorkeling with sea lions, as well as whale watching, kayaking and land tours, which take you inside the rustic charm of the Baja peninsula.

Most of the islands you’ll visit are unpopulated, although there are a few small fishing villages such as San Evaristo, a colorful little island with burros walking the beach, a cantina and a couple of ex-pat liveaboards who’ve made this place home. If you lived aboard and had no debt, you could probably do quite well — assuming you really liked fish.

The people here are warm and friendly with a sense of community that I envy. The casual dress code includes shorts, flip-flops and maybe a shirt.

One evening we anchored off the northern end of

Isla San Francisco, a beautiful white sandy beach. After dropping the anchor and settling in, one-quarter-mile off our stern we noticed a small rocky island with rustic houses perched atop. We looked up the island in our cruising guide, “Isla Coyote (Pardito),” and it said that visitors were welcome. The next morning, we launched the dingy and headed over.

As we approached the island, three gentlemen standing on the beach waved us in. We introduced ourselves to Manuel “Chacho” Curvas Dias (uncle), Jesus Ismael Curvas Collins (nephew) and Kevin Martin of Vancouver, Washington, a visiting friend. Fortunately, Kevin acted as our translator for the evening; without him, conversation would have been impossible due to the language barrier.

Manuel’s father made the island home. At one point, they had 40 people living there. The island had a school, and a teacher would come daily to teach.

Today, they fish. This day they had an order for 90 large clams. Local fishermen fish out of their “pangas,” boats specially designed for the Sea of Cortez that are 26 feet long by 5 feet wide by 3½ feet deep. After a tour of the island, Linda invited the men over to our catamaran for drinks later that evening. At 8 p.m., they were tying off their panga and coming aboard.

Chacho explained how he loved living on the island and how much more interesting it was than living in La Paz. He said he got to meet people from all over the world. Jacques Cousteau had been to the island, as well as Chuck Yeager and many others. He said Cousteau really loved the Sea of Cortez, calling it the “aquarium of the world.”

The landscape has been described by some as lunar.

If you include the sun in the mix — the brightest I’ve ever seen — and the crystal-clear turquoise water, the combination ignites. The breeze is constant; the night sky heavenly. It is truly a magnificent, otherworldly place.

Cruising Resource “Sea of Cortez: A Cruiser’s Guidebook” $49.95 USD 320 pages, full color, spiral-bound Blue Latitude Press LLC P.O. Box 2773 Kirkland, WA 98083-2773 360-421-1934 info@exploringcortez.com exploringcortez.com

TOP LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF FUN BAJA MIDDLE LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MOORINGS BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO COURTESY WIKIPEDIA COMMONS

Kayakers head back to their base camp on the beach.

Fun Baja’s tour boat waits for snorkelers and divers at the sea lion rookery.

TOP & BOTTOM LEFT PHOTOS BY BING O’MEARA BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF FUN BAJA

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Mael, Chacho and Kevin on Isla Coyote (Pardito).

Boats anchored at Isla San Franciso.

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TOP PHOTO BY BING O’MEARA BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MOORINGS

Longing for La Paz by heather steinberger

A

s writer Bruce Berger notes in his acclaimed 1998 book “Almost an Island,” most written work about Mexico’s Baja California peninsula has focused on the region’s natural wonders.

With more than 30 species of marine mammal and 500 species of fish making their homes here, some of which are found nowhere else in the world, the peninsula’s Pacific and Gulf of California waters offer world-class scuba diving, snorkeling, sea-kayaking, whalewatching, fishing and recreational boating.

And then there’s the otherworldly Sonoran Desert, with its banded volcanic mountains, oddly green high sierra, hidden box canyons and sweeping arroyos.

The landscape proves to be a haven for mountain bikers, backpackers, hikers, RVing families, ATV devotees and those intrepid explorers bound for the celebrated Sierra de San Francisco cave paintings with local guides and mules.

They’re all coming to experience “Baja” — that unique place of unparalleled adventure, a stunning natural juxtaposition where the desert tumbles to meet the tropical sea.

This Baja, however, is what Berger calls a hard-edged mirage. To truly experience the heart and soul of this place, you need to get to know its people.

“To approach the goal of conjuring the peninsula whole in my mind,” Berger writes of his own travels in the region, “I needed to pass through Baja to Baja California.”

The best way to discover the real Baja California is to spend a few days in La Paz, capital of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur. Located just 100 miles north of the more famous Los Cabos corridor, this bustling, friendly seaport has managed to retain its laid-back, muy tranquilo character even in the face of increasing development and a population explosion.

Brightly painted colonial architecture adorns the historic centro with its narrow zigzag streets, and the waterfront resembles a seaside European boulevard with its five-kilometer-long malecon seawall promenade, openair restaurants, sidewalk cafes and venerable hotels.

A modest fleet of colorful fishing pangas rests on the beach, with fishermen ready to supply fresh seafood to the city’s myriad restaurants and taco stands or to carry visitors to see whale sharks in the bay, to swim with sea lions at the Los Islotes colony or to explore Isla Espíritu Santo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve north of the city.

TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF FUN BAJA MIDDLE PHOTO BY BING O’MEARA BOTTOM PHOTO BY HEATHER STEINBERGER

First tip: Stay in town, perhaps at the Seven Crown, the Hotel Perla or El Moro. The city’s centro is quite walkable, and its vibe will enchant you.

Second tip: Rent a car so you can enjoy the many pleasures just a short drive away. Don’t worry about parking; at most public lots, 20 pesos — less than $2 — will buy unlimited time.

Enjoy your morning cup of coffee and a plate of huevos rancheros or chilaquiles at Hotel Perla’s La Terraza restaurant, a gracious, open-air, waterfront establishment. Or, if you prefer to make your own coffee, visit Ramón at Cafe Batalla, just past the intersection of Calle Zaragoza and Avenida Independencia. Ask for “dos molinas, revuelto,” and savor the flavors of Veracruzean coffee.

Drive 10 kilometers to Playa Balandra, near the tip of the Pichilingue Peninsula, and hike around the northern rim of the bay; a delightful, hidden beach with sugar sand and turquoise water is just around the corner, adorned with La Paz’s iconic “mushroom rock.” While crowds can be heavy on weekends, you might be the only one there on a midweek morning.

Stop at Playa Tecolote, which faces the San Lorenzo Channel and Isla Espíritu Santo. The surf might be up, the water will be warm, and the fish tacos are nothing short of spectacular at the beach restaurant.

Or take a drive down to Bahía de Los Muertos, more recently christened Bahía de Los Sueños — “dreams” is apparently easier to promote than “the dead.” Despite new home development and a nearby golf course, you likely will have the beach to yourself, with only the local fishing pangas and a few cruising sailboats for company.

If you desire a weekend beach outing but don’t want to brave the crowds, drive around the Bahía de La Paz and then head north on the coast road toward San Juan de La Costa. Around kilometer 23, you’ll see little public beaches tucked below the cliffs. These are good spots for shelling and enjoying the quiet.

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For the adventurous: Hike up the box canyon at kilometer 20.

Back in La Paz, sit outside Café Exquisito with a café con leche, or visit nearby La Fuente for an ice cream. Just look for the polka-dot tree, and be prepared for a startling array of flavors — including the cactus fruit pitahaya.

Saturday is prime time to enjoy a sunset or evening stroll on the malecon. This is, without question, the throbbing pulse of the city.

Then there are the cultural events and performances at the Teatro de la Ciudad or one of the city’s universities; the art galleries; the Museo de Antropología; and the lovely Plaza Constitución, which incorporates the 1861 Catedral de Nuestra Señora de La Paz and the Biblioteca de História de Las Californias.

Don’t miss the lobster tacos at the Bismark-cito taco stand on the malecon or the fried oysters at Moyeyo’s, next door to popular sea-kayak outfitter Baja Outdoor Activities. Have a tequila or a cold cerveza at the appropriately named watering hole Tequila’s, just a block off the waterfront.

And take a little drive to the village-come-suburb of El Centenario to El Comitan, where you’ll find a small restaurant on Calle 3 named Meny’s. It looks humble, but the Durango-born chef, who’s been a Paceño for nearly three decades, will delight you with first-class fare at affordable prices. Try the Chateaubriand or the pollo naranja, the Caesar salad and the platano dessert. The tableside preparation alone is worth with Sea & Adventures the price of admission.

Sea Kayaking • Whale Watching • Snorkeling • Hiking • Fishing A final tip: Wherever you go, talk to people. Paceños are warm and • Day Trips • Quick Getaways • Multi-day Expeditions friendly, they’ll tell you “Tenga un buen día” and mean it, and they all will For accommodations in La Paz choose the Posada LunaSol, want to know if you’re enjoying their beloved city.

A quaint Mexican Inn located in a quiet neighborhood near To learn more about La Paz, visit the city’s official website at lapazthe Marina La Paz and waterfront boardwalk. tourism.com and the popular web magazine bajainsider.com.

Explore the best of

BAJA

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•Shuttle services are provided from the airport to all hotels in town• For Sales & reservations Naho Sugimachi : reservation@funbaja.com Enrique Castillo : ecastillo@funbaja.com 46 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

PH: (52)612 10 67148 FAX (52) 612 1067146 Facebook-Fun Baja www.funbaja.com

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BOUNDS For a true Up North experience, look no further than the Boundary Waters — and the gateway communities that offer access to its breathtaking million-plus acres.

BY H EATH E R STE I N B E RG E R

I

f you’re a Great Lakes trailerboater, or any Midwesterner with a bent for watersports and the great outdoors, chances are you’re familiar with Up North — that vast country stretching from northern Minnesota, across Wisconsin and Michigan, to eastern Ontario. Like a magnet, it draws the region’s population into its embrace throughout the summer months, the fall color season, during holidays and on snowy winter weekends.

As you drive north from Minneapolis-St. Paul, Chicago, Milwaukee and Detroit, the suburbs gradually peter out amid rolling farm country with increasingly thick copses of woodland. Drive farther, and the woods get bigger, deeper, darker and cooler, and their sheltering arms harbor countless glimmering inland lakes. The air seems fresher, and the wind carries the eerie call of a loon.

Of course, those woods are pockmarked with second homes, hotels, rental cabins and various businesses catering to the tourist trade, but if you know where to look, you still can find a true wilderness experience, one that the original native peoples still would recognize centuries after their birchbark canoes first paddled these waters.

PHOTO BY LAYNE KENNEDY

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Downtown Grand Marais

NEARLY 1.1 MILLION ACRES in size, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness extends almost 150 miles along the U.S.-Canada border in northeastern Minnesota, in the northern reaches of the state’s Superior National Forest.

It’s part of an even greater tract of boreal wilderness, as it lies adjacent to Canada’s Quetico Provincial Park and abuts Voyageurs National Park in the west.

This is true wilderness, a primeval, glacially sculpted landscape of towering cliffs and granite rock formations, plunging canyons, cascading waterfalls, ancient pine forests and more than 1,000 pristine lakes and streams, with countless emerald islands, hidden coves and sheltered bays.

Pictographs are visible on some rock faces. The Ojibwe, who settled in the area when the Lakota, Dakota and Nakota nations moved west, consider this to be their historic homeland. Many still reside on the nearby Grand Portage Indian Reservation.

Rich history French explorers and fur traders were the first Europeans to travel through the Boundary Waters, starting with explorer Jacques de Noyon in 1688. By the late 1700s, the Hudson’s Bay and North West fur-trading companies competed intensely here. Water was their lifeline, and today’s international border in the Boundary Waters mirrors one of the voyageurs’ most popular paddling routes.

Due to its remote location, the region was spared serious efforts to exploit its natural resources until the turn of the 20th century. Industrial interests sought to 52 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

open the wilderness for mining, logging and even dam projects.

Recognizing the need to preserve the character of this unique area, the U.S. Forest Service created the Superior Roadless Area in 1926. The 1964 Wilderness Act officially formed the BWCAW, a legal unit of the National Wilderness Preservation System, and the 1978 Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Act established the lake usage, portage and permit regulations that approximately 200,000 annual visitors observe today.

Logging officially ended in 1979, and the BWCAW became a haven for its indigenous flora and fauna, as well as for the intrepid adventurers who seek solitude, peace and an authentic communion with nature.

Today, it boasts nearly 2,200 designated backcountry campsites, 12 hiking trails and more than 1,500 miles of paddling routes for canoeists and kayakers, thanks to the extensive network of interconnected lakes, streams and portages.

TOP LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF COOK COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU TOP MIDDLE PHOTO COURTESY OF ELY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Paddling the Boundary Waters is the best way to experience its majestic beauty.

PHOTO BY KEN MARTINSON

53 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

Abundant wildlife, such as the bear pictured above, is a major appeal for visitors to the Boundary Waters. Pictographs drawn by native peoples can be found on many rock faces.

54 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

More than 10 years ago, National Geographic named the Boundary Waters one of its “50 Places of a Lifetime,” and when the magazine released a special iPad app this year, the BWCAW remained on the list. It’s one of Minnesota’s top tourist attractions, and visitors come from all over the world, in every season.

Clearly, if you’re an Up North enthusiast, this is a distinctly Midwestern delight you don’t want to miss.

And if you’re a powerboater who’s keen to head north with a trailer, don’t worry. While more than 75 percent of the wilderness area is set aside for nonmotorized use, powerboats are allowed on a few lakes and have a range of BWCAW entry points available. Little Vermilion Lake, Loon Lake and Loon River have no horsepower limits; Lac La Croix also is unrestricted, provided you don’t venture beyond the south end of Snow Bay on the U.S. side.

If your power plant doesn’t exceed 25 horsepower, your options open up to include Fall, Moose, Newton, Newfound, East Bearskin, Sucker, South Farm, Snowbank and Trout lakes. If you’re at 10 horsepower or less, you also may use Clearwater Lake, North Fowl Lake, South Fowl Lake, Seagull Lake east of 3 Mile Island and portions of the Island River.

Motors may not be used, or even kept on board, when you’re on a paddle-only lake. If you’re a sailor or sailboarder, bear in mind that these rules apply to mechanized craft as well; if the rules say paddle-only, make sure you’ve got a canoe or a kayak.

In fact, paddling through the Boundary Waters is perhaps the best way to experience the wilderness area, as it puts you in vivid, intimate touch with the world of

the Ojibwe and the voyageurs. Just think: No motors, no electricity, no phone lines, no cell towers and no roads.

“Early in the morning, the sunlight is clean and clear,” said Karla Wotruba of Appleton, Wisconsin, who travels to the BWCAW with five women friends each year for a girls-only paddling adventure. “There is a mist on the water, and the water is like a mirror to the sky. Islands appear to float on their reflections. Other times, sunlight ripples across the surface. I never get tired of that picture, and I can never capture it with a camera. (It’s) like diamonds scattered across of the water.”

Planning your trip Like Wotruba’s group, many visitors will plan their own trips through the BWCAW. If you’re one of these, remember that permits are required for all overnight visitors, whether you’re hiking, paddling or using your powerboat. From May 1 to September 30, when the Boundary Waters sees its heaviest use, you’ll need a quota permit in advance. From October 1 to April 30, self-permitting is accepted at the wilderness area’s various entry points.

If you’ve never been to the BWCAW, however, or if you’re a newbie when it comes to backcountry adventuring, enlisting the services of a local outfitter is the best way to go. Not only will they set you up with the right gear and provisions, they’ll also help you plan the best route based on your experience and wishes. Some provide guided trips as well.

Every seasoned BWCAW paddler has his or her TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF COOK COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU FAR LEFT PHOTO BY ERIN MCCANN TOP RIGHT PHOTO BY KEN MARTINSON

preferred routes and camping spots, as there are literally hundreds from which to choose. Wotruba said she keeps a journal so she can remember her favorites.

“The Phoebe River and Kawishiwashi River reveal themselves as you paddle, each turn showing more and more spectacular scenery,” she recalled. “One of the days required a lot of portages — 12 in one day. The last time we went that route, the path for a portage went right through a creek and across the top of a small waterfall.”

Wotruba acknowledged that it’s not always easy going. She recounted portage paths that were completely submerged, where the only way forward was through.

She said beavers can change a river that was easily navigated just days before. She remembered passing over and under downed trees, using a canoe as a bridge for passing packs and paddles, using paddles as prods to test the security of marshy ground and crawling down a path-come-cliff to Chaser Lake.

And, sometimes, maps are deceiving.

“A marshy river can dry up and take hours to paddle and scoot across,” she said. “The twists and turns can go on and on. Long portages can be flat and easy or covered with water. Short ones can be rock-strewn and treacherous. We may think we know what’s on the map, but we can’t control it.”

So stay flexible, and focus on the present.

“A lot of times, I’m not sure what the lake is named, or how many portages are left, because I have to live in the moment,” Wotruba reflected. “I can’t worry about what is coming next; I can only deal with right now.

TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF COOK COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU TOP RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF ELY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO BY KEN MARTINSON

“(And) nature has the final word,” she added. “One year, we were absolutely socked in by the wind. The next morning it was glass.”

Then come the moments of pure magic, where time completely falls away.

“Last year, we had a portage onto Stuart Lake that was old-growth pine trees along a stream and waterfall,” Wotruba said. “The trees were enormous, creating a canopy over our heads, trunks as wide as whiskey barrels, and the path was rust-colored with pine needles. Realizing how long those trees have stood by that path, I felt as though I were walking in ancient footsteps.”

Gateway communities

The Boundary Waters is spectacular regardless of season.

Enjoy beautiful fall foliage, winter dog sledding and, of course, peaceful summertime canoeing.

Wotruba’s group is familiar with all three principal gateway cities to the BWCAW: Grand Marais, Tofte and Ely, Minnesota. From Grand Marais, the women travel the historic Gunflint Trail, which stretches 57 miles from Lake Superior’s north shore to Saganaga Lake in the wilderness area. On the way, they stay at the Tuscarora Lodge and Outfitters in a bunkhouse.

“It’s very rustic, just bunkbeds stacked three high,” Wotruba noted. “On our way, we’ve eaten dinner a few times at My Sister’s Place in Grand Marais, which is special for our all-girl group.”

Also on the Gunflint Trail is Clearwater Canoe Outfitters and Historic Lodge, the area’s oldest and largest freestanding, hand-hewn whole-log structure.

Charlie and Petra Boostrom bought the property in 1914; convinced that their spot on Clearwater Lake 55 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

Cross River Lodge welcomes a special visitor (top left). The Clearwater Historic Lodge offers acommodations on Clearwater Lake (bottom left). One of the best ways to take in the beautiful scenery is from the privacy of your canoe or kayak (top right).

56 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

had the finest view on the Gunflint Trail, the Boostroms started the lodge in 1915.

It was the first resort and outfitter on the trail, and it remains the only resort on Clearwater Lake. The main lodge building was finished in 1926; four of the cabins and the sauna also are original buildings.

Here, guests will enjoy the same breakfast recipes used 90 years ago, as the cook and kitchen manager is a granddaughter of the couple that founded the business.

In addition, the founders’ daughter, who was born in the lodge in the 1920s, comes weekly to tell stories around the fireplace.

Where to stay While not an outfitter, another distinctive lodge in the area is the Cross River Lodge, formerly the Moosehorn and originally the Borderland. Located on well-known Gunflint Lake, the lodge was built in the 1920s and still boasts its original native stone fireplace.

The current owners have extensively remodeled this small resort to bring back its true northwoods feel. Guests may choose lodge-suite or cabin accommodations.

Then, back in Grand Marais, there is Bear Tracks Outfitting Company on Highway 61, which provides outfitting services as well as sea kayak rentals, fishing charters and year-round lodging. Bear Tracks can provide full and partial outfitting, including provisioning, and the night before or after your trip, you can enjoy lodging in rustic cabins at Bally Creek.

In business for nearly 40 years, Bear Tracks can support

kayaking and canoeing adventures in the summer and cross-country skiing trips in the winter.

If you have a little time to spend in Grand Marais before or after your BWCAW exploration, enjoy a frosty beverage and water views at the Gunflint Tavern and stop at the Trading Post to peruse the selection of camping gear, clothing and household items. And if you’re going to be in the area for a while, the North House Folk School offers classes such as boatbuilding, snowshoe making and timber framing.

While Grand Marais is gateway to the Gunflint Trail, the easternmost access route to the Boundary Waters, the little community of Tofte — between Taconite Harbor and Lutsen on Lake Superior’s north shore — provides access to the Sawbill Trail. It also features the Bluefin Bay Resort, where visitors can savor fresh Lake Superior fish at the Coho Café.

“We’d stay at the AmericInn if we were going out through Sawbill Outfitters on the Sawbill Trail,” Wotruba said. “In 2009, we had dinner at the Coho Café, and I’m still dreaming about their smoked marinara sauce.

“For many years, when we came out of the Boundary Waters, it was a special treat to eat our first breakfast at the Bluefin Grille,” she continued. “They have oatmeal with wild rice that was spectacular. Someday I’ll skip the camping and just stay at the resort. As long as I put some mud on my clothes, no one needs to be any the wiser!”

Finally, there is Ely in the west, gateway to the Echo and Fernberg trails. Wotruba said her group frequently stays at a budget motel there called the Paddler’s Inn.

TOP LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF CROSS RIVER LODGE TOP RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF COOK COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF CLEARWATER HISTORIC LODGE AND CANOE OUTFITTERS

“We’ve rented canoes for many years from Piragis Outfitters and enjoy browsing through all their clothing and gear, trying hard to remember that the camping experience means leaving some of the amenities of home behind,” she commented. “We usually have a wonderful last dinner at the Chocolate Moose before heading out in the morning.”

“The Chocolate Moose is right in town and has wonderful food,” agreed Erin McCann of San Diego, California. “Save room for dessert! My favorite is their strawberry rhubarb pie.”

Few outsiders know the community better than McCann, who grew up in Mequon, Wisconsin, and worked for years as an Ely-based instructor with Outward Bound. The organization offers year-round guided trips into the BWCAW. “The Echo Trail has many Boundary Waters put-in points,” she commented. “A good one is at Hegman Lake, where you can take a short paddle, ski or snowshoe to the pictographs.” An outfitter’s extensive knowledge of the area and equipment will add immensely to the pleasure of your trip.

One such operation is Canadian Waters Inc. Founded by the Waters family in 1964, the company has been under continuous ownership and management longer than any other Boundary Waters and Quetico outfitter; its headquarters covers half a square block in downtown Ely. They are the only outfitters selected to outfit the families of two sitting U.S. presidents.

Home to both its BWCAW canoe outfitting business and retail store, Canadian Waters offers everything you

need for a paddling and wilderness camping adventure.

And, in addition to camping equipment, you’ll also find fishing gear, outdoor clothing and gift items.

If you’re not paddling, McCann advised that summer and fall are great times for drives up the Echo Trail, which will take you deep into the forest along the BWCAW boundary. Another good choice is Highway 1. The sights, she said, will blow you away — from the endless views of lakes, rivers and forest to witnessing a moose, wolf or loon in its natural environment.

Exploring in town The town is fun, too. If you’d like to stay for a night or two before or after your paddling trip, check out the Blue Heron Bed and Breakfast, the Grand Ely Lodge and the summer-only Burntside Lodge, all of which are on lakes that allow powerboats.

You also might want to check out Northern Grounds for coffee and breakfast or panini sandwiches, and the Boathouse Brewery for burgers and pizza. Several restaurants have open mic nights during the summer, and a couple have outdoor patios for live music and dancing.

A final tip, according to McCann: Visit the porch at the Grand Ely Lodge, where you can enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail and watch the sun set over the lake.

Ely, she observed, is really like no other place in the world. “The locals are some of the nicest people you’ll meet,” she said. “In the summer, 90 percent of the cars have canoes strapped to the top, and in the winter, there are more snowmobiles than cars on the streets.”

TOP RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF FRABILL TOP LEFT & BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF ELY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Winter remains an active time in the Boundary Waters. Snow shoeing, ice fishing and cross country skiing are just a few popular cold-weather activities.

57 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

Learn More About the B-dub United States Forest Service: www.fs.fed.us

Indeed, winter is an adventurous time of year to visit the BWCAW and surrounding communities. Popular activities include snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, skating and dog sledding.

“If you want to try dog sledding, several companies offer trips from a couple of hours to several days long,” said McCann, who is an accomplished dog-sled guide.

She recommended Outward Bound and White Wilderness Sled Dog Adventures. Outward Bound offers winter camping and dog sledding adventures from four days up to several weeks in length. White Wilderness features a variety of trips, from day outings to more elaborate yurt-to-yurt overnight tours.

And don’t miss Ely’s Winter Festival in February.

Snow carvers from around the world converge on Whiteside Park, which overflows with professionals’ and locals’ artistic efforts. The fun continues with the

Mukluk Ball, live music, ski racing, dog sled rides and a variety of family events.

No matter when you visit the Boundary Waters, however, you can rest assured that it will be a one-ofa-kind adventure to remember.

“I’ve seen a moose swimming across the lake in front of me,” Wotruba said. “We’ve had (nesting) turtles crawl right up to the campsite as we watched the moon rise over the water. There are times when we are paddling along, and no one says a word. All you can hear is the slipping of the paddles in and out of the water and the canoes gliding along.

“I used to be so grateful for all of the creature comforts when I returned home, but now, I sometimes think if we wouldn’t run out of food, I could stay,” she mused.

“Time in Boundary Waters is precious, and the trip home is always bittersweet.”

When you visit this website, go to the search “By Name” box, scroll down, select “Superior” and click “Go.” That will take you to the Superior National Forest page. In the sidebar on the right-hand side, you’ll see a photo and live link for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Click that, and it will take you to the U.S. Forest Service’s dedicated BWCAW information.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Information Resource: www.bwca.com This is a “virtual entry point,” dedicated to sharing information and experiences about both the BWCAW and neighboring Quetico Provincial Park.

BWCA Resorts & Outfitters: www.bwca.cc Gateway Community Information Ely: www.ely.org Grand Marais: www.grandmarais.com Tofte: www.lutsentofte.com Minnesota North Shore Visitor’s Guide: www.northshoreinfo.com

58 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

Works of Art Few people have captured the spirit of the Boundary Waters better than Minnesotan Layne Kennedy. A fine art photographer known for his editorial magazine work, Kennedy has photographed stunning places all over the world — including Minnesota’s Boundary Waters.

In his most recent book, “Paddle North,” published in 2010, Kennedy provides a unique view into life in this remote and pristine Up North region, stretching into Canada’s Quetico Provincial Park.

Kennedy’s 2008 publication, “A Hard-Water World” takes a whimsical look at ice fishing.

Both books are published by the Minnesota Historical Society Press (shop.mnhs.org) and

are available for purchase through the publisher, as well as Amazon.com and fine bookstores throughout the country. Individuals desiring signed copies can make a personalized request on Kennedy’s website (laynekennedy.com), or send him an e-mail at: lk@laynekennedy.com.

TOP LEFT PHOTO COURTESY COOK COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU BOOK COVERS BY LAYNE KENNEDY

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marina watch

Manistee Municipal Marina New marina building breathes life into this convenient spot.

Manistee Municipal Marina 480 River St. Manistee, MI 49660 231-723-1552 ci.manistee.mi.us Amenities Transient slips: Y Pump-out: Y Gas: Y Diesel: Y Lifts: Nearby Launch ramp: Nearby Engine repair: Nearby Hull repair: No Marine store: Nearby Restaurant: Nearby Grocery: Nearby Showers: Y Laundry Facility: Y WiFi: Y (free) 60 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

S

mack dab in the center of downtown Manistee, Michigan, Manistee Municipal Marina is perfectly positioned along the town’s riverwalk, just a quarter-mile east of Lake Michigan and less than a mile west of Manistee Lake.

The marina dates back to the 1970s and has seen continuous upgrades ever since, the most recent being the brand-new, nearly $1 million marina building that opened in June 2011 (see photo, above left). Despite construction hiccups that stretched the project an extra year — which meant the 2010 season was a bit difficult for visitors — the end result made it well worth the wait.

“It’s an absolutely stunning structure,” says Dave Bachman, Manistee harbormaster and marina manager.

“When you come up the river, it’s eye-catching and architecturally the best-looking building on the river.”

The interior is right in line with the exterior. There’s a boaters’ lounge and a kids’ lounge, both with flat screen TVs and Blu-ray players. There are eight private shower suites, plus washer and dryer facilities.

Plenty of other perks abound, including free wireless Internet, which Bachman says is one of the building’s

by colle e n h . trou pi s

most popular features. The nearby casino offers a free shuttle, and a dial-a-ride service takes guests anywhere in the county during the day for just $1.

The marina is in such a prime location, however, that a ride may not be necessary. It is within easy walking distance of all downtown Manistee’s restaurants, shops, grocery stores, museums and bars, and there are beautiful sugar-sand beaches where the river meets Lake Michigan.

Universal access is important throughout the city of Manistee, and that’s evident at the marina as well.

“We’re the only marina in Michigan that I’m aware of that has a handicapped lift for boaters,” Bachman says (see photo, top right).

There’s plenty of room for boaters, too. Of the marina’s 36 slips — plus 300 feet of broadside dockage — some 29 slips are typically available for transients.

Reservations can be made online through the Michigan DNR reservation system and are recommended.

Still, Bachman says, “We always maintain float-in space and only rarely turn anyone away.”

The marina also can take boats up to 60 feet in its slips, and up to 100 feet along the wall. r

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Lap of Luxury

Our pick this month is a posh, tri-level cruiser.

I don’t sleep very well. I lay awake, toss and turn all year long, and when I do sleep, I dream of being on the water with my wife and kids. When we are on the water, we’re always moving along and laying a wake behind us. Thus, the name on the back of the boat — and the side of the dinghy to match my sleeping habits.

I’m sure it’ll be a long winter and spring, with lots of sleepless nights, Lay’n-a-Wake and Toss’n-n-Turn’n.

— Steve Piltz, Wabasha, MN

CLIMBIN’ HIGH

2011 Tiara 5800 Sovran Don’t miss the perfect opportunity to own your very own piece of floating luxury. This brand-new 2011 Tiara 5800 Sovran offers the ultimate in spacious, posh accommodations.

Boaters will marvel at the stunning tri-level interior: An upper level that includes the helm station and main salon; sky galley at mid-level; and a lower level complete with salon/dinette, forward VIP stateroom and private master head, and aft master stateroom and VIP/day head.

At the helm, any captain would enjoy the luxurious amenities, which include LCD TV with hi/lo actuator, drawer-style refrigerator to port, teak hardwood floors, and two Tracy captain’s chairs with vertical and fore/aft adjustment. In the main salon, seating is ample and natural light is abundant, thanks to double curved glass sliding doors, side windows and a fiberglass sliding sunroof. The sky galley, located in the center of the boat’s floorplan, features quartz countertops, stainless steel undermount sinks, three-burner electric cook top, microwave/ convection oven and Sub-Zero refrigerator/ freezer drawers. A convertible dinette with seating for four transforms into a two-berth sleeper and boasts roomy upper cabinet storage above.

The luxuriously carpeted, full beam aft master stateroom has a private entrance complete with port/starboard hullside windows, oversize queen pedestal berth, vanity unit and port/starboard dresser drawers, port hanging locker, flat screen LCD TV/Denon stereo, master head and custom 62 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

LOA: 60'9" (w/ swim platform) Beam: 15'10" Draft: 3'6" Displacement: 43,500 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 650 gals.

Water Capacity: 200 gals.

Holding Tank Capacity: 86 gals.

Power: 3 Volvo IPS 600 435 hp w/ joystick control Price: $1,799,900 CONTACT Justin Bassett, Walstrom Marine 501 E. Bay St., Harbor Springs, MI 49740 231-526-2141 boats@walstrom.com, walstrom.com

bath towels and bedding. Located forward, the VIP stateroom includes queen-size pedestal berth, hanging locker, port/starboard hullside cabinets, flat screen LCD TV, solid teak flooring and private entry to the VIP/day head.

But what about the ride, you ask? It’s quiet, smooth and efficient, thanks to the Volvo Penta IPS system, which includes state-of-the-art joystick control.

The boat comes with a Special Value Package offer that includes: MC Numbers; your name on the transom; U.S. Coast Guard safety package; full tank of fuel; complete mechanical and electronic orientation; fitted custom sheets; 2011 winter storage onsite at Walstrom Marine; and detailed orientation with a Tiara Flagship Captain. Asking price is $1,799,900.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WALSTROM MARINE

When we bought our 2003 Cruisers Yachts 3372 in the summer of 2010, my husband thought Climbin’ High would be the perfect name, since his job is to climb and assess the condition of water towers. Our designer daughter did the artwork, with the “L” shaped like a ladder and the “I” that looks like a water tower.

— Mike & Debbie Olesen Watertown & Sturgeon Bay, WI

LORIANTHONY II

The LoriAnthony II is named after my beautiful wife and myself. This is our third season as boaters. Our first boat was a 265 Bayliner. We had 15-foot-itis, so we bought this 4200 Navigator. The Discovery Channel show “Deadliest Catch” gave us the idea for the reflective name.

— Anthony & Lori, Salem, WI

Got a great name? Share it with us!

Send a short write-up, along with your name, your boat’s name, and your home city and state, as well as a high-resolution photo of your boat (at least 1 MB) to: staff@lakelandboating.com. Don’t forget to put “Name Game” in subject line. Your boat could wind up in the next Lakeland Boating!

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Throughout our long history we have produced many new vessels, but none has challenged traditions or questioned the assumptions on which boats are generally built quite like our Sport Yacht series. This is especially true of the Riviera 4400, a boat rich in innovations.

Revolutionary Volvo Penta Inboard Performance System (IPS) features steerable drive units mounted under the hull with counter-rotating, forward-facing propellers. Rather than pushing the boat along, the boat is literally pulled forward through the water.

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AQUARIVA 33 BY GUCCI

2012 RIVA 75 VENERE

END OF SEASON SALES! 2004 Larson Cabrio 370 Midcabin, T-8.1 High Output Mercs, 420HP ................ $139,900 1990 Chris Craft 372 Catalina Double Cabin, T-454 Crusaders, 330HP .............. $71,500 1997 Sea Ray 370 Express Cruiser, T-7.4L MPI Mercs, 310HP ........................... $94,900 1999 Sea Ray 380 Sundancer, T-7.4L Mercs, 380HP .......................................... $122,900 2002 Regal 3860 Commodore, T-8.1 Gxi Volvos, 420HP ..................................... $139,000 1987 Sea Ray 390 Express Cruiser, T-454 Mercs, 340HP ................................... $34,900 2008 Rinker 400 Express Cruiser, T-8.1 MAG Mercs w/Axius, 375HP ............... $219,000 1998 Maxum 4100 SCR, T-Diamond Series Cummins, 330HP ............................ $105,000 1990 Sea Ray 420 Sundancer, T-3208 Caterpillars, 375HP................................. $84,900 1990 Sea Ray 420 Sundancer, T-3208 Caterpillars, 375HP................................. $84,900 2008 Regal 4460 Commodore, T-600 series Volvos w/IPS, 500HP..................... $385,000 2007 Formula 45 Yacht, T-Volvos, 575HP ............................................................ $469,900 1985 Viking 46 Convertible, T-892 Detroit Diesels, 675HP ................................. $129,000 1979 Hatteras Sport Fisherman, T-8V71T1 Detroit Diesels, 425HP.................... $124,900 2004 Carver 46 Motor Yacht, T-75P TAMD EDC Volvos, 370HP ......................... $279,000 1999 Sea Ray 460 Sundancer, T-Diamond Series Cummins, 450HP................... $185,000 2001 Cruisers 5000 Sport Sedan, T-74P TAMD Volvos, 480HP .......................... $359,000 1994 Ocean 53 Super Sport, T-8V92 Detroit Diesels, 760HP.............................. $395,000 1999 Sea Ray 560 Sedan Bridge, T-3406E Caterpillars, 776HP .......................... $449,000 2008 Marquis, Markham Edition, T-D12 EVC Volvos, 775HP.............................$1,095,000 1991 Skipperliner 630 Motor Yacht, T-Mercs, 180HP ......................................... $144,000 1989 Hatteras Cockpit Motor Yacht, T-12V71TA Detroit Diesels, 770HP ........... $595,000

New & Pre-owned Yachts or Call for current listings at 708.841.5660 19’ 26’ 27’ 28’ 29’ 30’ 31’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 34’ 35’ 35’ 36’ 36’ 36’ 36’

1956 Chris Craft Capri w/KBL engine with trailer .............................................. $27,499 2004 Regal 2665 Commodore, w/350 MAG MPI Merc, 350HP.......................... $41,900 1995 Sea Ray 270 Sundancer w/7.4L Merc sterndrive, 330HP .......................... $14,900 1989 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer, T-5.7L Mercs, Alpha I I/O’s, 260HP .................... $22,500 2003 Four Winns 298 Vista Cruiser, T-5.0 GXi/DP Volvos, 270HP ...................... $64,900 2007 Rinker 300 Express Cruiser, T-Mercs, 260HP ............................................. $95,000 2003 Rinker 312 Fiesta Vee, T-5.0L Mercs MPI I/O, 260HP ................................ $59,900 1988 Chris Craft 320 Amerosport, T-350 Crusaders, 270HP ............................... $21,000 1998 Wellcraft 3200 Martinique, T-Mercs, 260HP ............................................. $44,900 1985 Wellcraft 3200 St. Tropez, T-Mercs, 260HP ............................................... $15,950 1997 Wellcraft 3200 Martinique, T-Mercs, 320HP ............................................. $54,900 2005 Bayliner 325 Express Cruiser, T-350 MAG MPI I/O’s, 300HP ..................... $82,500 1996 Sea Ray 330 Sundancer, T-454 Mercs, 310HP ........................................... $49,900 1995 Tiara 3300 Open, T-454 Crusaders, 320HP ................................................. $84,900 1999 Cruisers 3375 Esprit, T-7.4L Mercs, 310HP ................................................ $50,000 2001 Formula 34 PC, T-7.4L MPI Mercs, 300HP .................................................. $89,900 1997 Carver 350 Mariner, T-350 Crusaders, 320HP ............................................ $74,900 2008 Rinker 350 Express Cruiser, T-Mercs, 300HP, with Axius Drive ................. $150,000 1992 Four Winns 365 Express, T-Fords, 460HP ................................................... $59,900 2006 Carver 36 Mariner, T-Crusaders, 375HP ..................................................... $175,000 2001 Trojan 360 Express Cruiser, T-MX 6.2 MPI Horizon Mercs, 320HP ............ $95,000 2000 Doral 360 Express (SE), T-7.4L Mercs, 310HP ............................................ $100,000

37’ 37’ 37’ 38’ 38’ 39’ 40’ 41’ 42’ 42’ 44’ 45’ 46’ 46’ 46’ 46’ 50’ 53’ 56’ 59’ 63’ 67’

For more information or to set up an appointment, contact Elite Yachts or Barbara Walsh

www.yachtworld.com/eliteyachtbrokerage | 630.887.1478 | Cell 630.235.0227 | bw@eliteyachtschicago.com

EXTENSIVE

BUY NOW! Many Reduced Prices!

MARKETING PLAN List your Trawler with us!

Listing and Selling Trawlers all over the United States and Canada!

Largest number of trawler listings anywhere!

IDEAL GREAT LOOP & FRESH WATER TRAWLERS BROKERAGE TRAWLERS

NEW RANGER TUGS IN-STOCK

29 Ranger Tug 2010 $254,000 BUY NOW $219,000

25 Ranger Tug 2008 $156,000 w/trailer BUY NOW $119,000

21 Ranger Tug 2010 $63,000 w/trailer BUY NOW $53,000

65 Custom Trawler 1998 $565,000

65 Skipperliner 1992 $239,000

... MORE BROKERAGE TRAWLERS

46 Westcoast 2004 $339,500

43 Saberline 1996 $340,000

42 Nordic Tug 2008 $649,500

42 Nordic Tug 2001 $339,000

42 Nordic Tug 1999 $299,000

42 Grand Banks Europa 2004 $549,000

42 Grand Banks 1993 $275,000

42 Grand Banks 1977 $99,000

41 Camano 2006 $385,000

41 President 1987 $120,000

40 T Mainship 2004 $239,000

40 Tollycraft 1986 $89,000

37 Custom Steel 1986 $89,000

36 Grand Banks 1973 $54,999

34 American Tug 2006 $289,000

34 American Tug 2004 $269,000

40 Ocean Alexander 1983 39 Ocean Alexander 1991 $99,900 $139,000

34 American Tug 2001 $225,000

34 Mainship 1978 $34,000

32 Nordic Tug 1991 $99,000

32 Albin 1989 $75,000

32 Grand Banks 1985 $99,000

32 Cheoy Lee 1983 $57,000

32 Island Gypsy 1983 $49,900

32 Vinette Steel 1977 $49,900

31 Camano 2001 $127,900

28 Albin 2007 $99,000

27 Albin 1984 $29,900

26 Nordic Tug 1981 with trailer $75,000

*Please note the location of the brokerage trawler in the website listing: at Manitowoc or at the owner’s location

www.trawlersmidwest.com • 920-894-2632 • 866-375-1633

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Kanberra Gel becomes... Kanberra Life!

Another year has passed, a new one begins and like many of you we’re struggling to recall where 2011 went. It seems like just weeks ago we were highfiving some Kanberra Gel fans at the Chicago Boat Show or visiting with some of our excellent retailers at Cobo Hall in Detroit during the February show.

Truth is, when we look over our travel calendar from 2011 we’er reminded of that corny yet catchy tune made popular by Johnny Cash “I’ve Been Everywhere Man.” Believe us, we’re not complaining, 2011 was an amazing year for Kanberra Gel. More and more boaters from Maine to San Diego, Seattle to Miami and everywhere in between embraced the product as a must-have not only for storage and seasonal use but for year-round, non-marine application as well. But with all the success, with all the movement in retailers coast to coast and online, and with all the glowing reviews found on blogs and in magazines one very glaring fact remains; it is a VERY big world out there and we’ve only just begun to scratch the surface.

Ever hear the phrase “snowball effect?” What began small has picked up steam and is now barreling ahead at the speed of a freight train. That is Kanberra Gel. As one customer of ours in Maine said, “If you don’t have it, then man, you’re just missing out.” And as a boater at the Annapolis show in Maryland recently stated, “Kanberra Gel is the only product I need.” Truth is we could write a whole page on just the testimonials we’ve received in 2011 alone. And not just from customers regarding boat use. We’ve been inundated with responses from people who love using it in all aspects of their lives.

From professionals in offices and schools to

68 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011

soccer moms with minivans, to pet lovers with notso-lovable odors, to antique car collectors, to allergy and asthma sufferers, to cancer survivors. It’s one of those products that come along not often enough where the uses are endless and the results priceless.

Kanberra Gel has done so many positive things for so many people in the last few years that it has many customers asking “Ok, what else?”

Truth is the Kanberra Group has been around for quite some time and is focused on all things Indoor Air Quality related. In addition to making Kanberra Gel we are filtration connoisseurs, mold remediation professionals and the largest ventilation cleaning contractor for the US Navy, to name just a few of our areas of expertise. Kanberra Gel is just the beginning of our repertoire. OK, so now what?

www.kanberragel.com

At the Kanberra Group there’s quite a bit on tap for 2012 besides another years’ worth of serious travel.

Now that we have the attention of so many and a fan base growing by the hour we certainly intend to remain active and at the forefront of peoples’ minds when they look to make smart, practical choices that improve and affect certain aspects of their lifestyle. A recurring theme from the feedback we’ve received the past couple years has been a desire for complimentary products and services to the Kanberra Gel brand. In the early stages of 2012 Kanberra Group and Kanberra Gel will evolve into an overall essence called “Kanberra Life.” You can expect to see several new products such as Kanberra Filters, which are actually already available on our website, a Kanberra Spray and Kanberra Wipes to name just a few. All created with the same, simple intent of being smart, practical and effective natural products of a good price and good value. Safe for your family, safe for anywhere.

As we pack our bags for yet another boat show one recurring customer response from this past year keeps coming back to us over and over, “I didn’t believe you until I tried it.” Truth is we seem to get that everywhere we go. We always knew it worked; we just needed people to try it themselves. So our message to all the readers at the beginning of 2012 is very simple: Just try Kanberra Gel. Simply just try it. Enough said. We trust you enjoyed the holidays and we’ll see you in 2012! In the meantime follow us on Facebook or visit www.KanberraGel.com for more information and a complete list of locations.

—David Levesque

2008 sea ray 400 sundancer

2005 tiara 3200 open

Grand Haven, MI Lasalle, MI Paul Reed 419-304-4962 Tim Manton 419-509-6948 John Clark 734-755-5902

2007 cabo 32 express

2006 pacific mariner 85

Traverse City, MI Brad Thompson 231-668-9868

www.reedyachtsales.com

22' 29' 29' 30' 30' 31' 31' 32' 32' 32' 32' 32' 35' 36' 36' 36' 36' 36' 36' 38' 38'

2010 1995 2002 1996 2008 1995 2010 1996 2002 2005 2005 2007 1977 1986 1986 1986 1988 1989 2007 1988 2001

Andros Boats Permit 22, S-Yamaha 150hp Four Stroke.................................$ Powerquest 290 Enticer FX w/Trl., T-Mercruiser 454 EFI Magnum .............$ Four Winns 298 Vista, T-Volvo Penta 5.0, 270 hp .............................................$ Pursuit 3000 Offshore, T-Crusader 454, 320 hp ................................................$ Tiara 3000 Open, T-Crusader 6.0 MPI, 375 hp...................................................$ Tiara 3100 Open - Hardtop, T-Crusader 454 XLI, 320 hp .................................$ Chaparral 310 Signature, T-Mercruiser 5.0 L MPI DTS Axius ......................$ Regal 320 Commodore, T-Mercruiser 7.4 ltr. ....................................................$ Four Winns 328 Vista, T-Mercruiser 350 Mag MPI's......................................$ Sunsation 32 Mid Cabin, T-MX 6.2 MPI, 320 hp ...............................................$ Tiara 3200 Open, T-Crusader 8.1 ltr., 385 hp ......................................................$ CABO 32 Express, T-Caterpillar C-7, 461 hp .....................................................$ Chris Craft 35 Catalina, T-Chris Craft 327, 220hp .............................................$ Trojan F-36 Convertible, T-Crusader 350's, 270 hp ..........................................$ Trojan F-36 Convertible, T-Crusader 454's, 350hp ...........................................$ Hatteras 36 Sedan, T-Crusader 7.4 ltr., 350 hp .................................................$ Mainship 36 Double Cabin, T-Crusader 350 5.7L, 270 hp ...............................$ Tiara 3600 Convertible, T-Crusader 350 hp .......................................................$ Meridian 368 Motor Yacht, T-Mercruiser 8.1 ltr. HO, 385 hp .........................$ Hatteras 38 Convertible, T-Detroit Diesels, 6V-71TI .......................................$ Tiara 3800 Open, T-Caterpillar, 3208, 435hp ......................................................$

32,499 32,500 59,900 59,900 169,900 74,900 164,900 44,900 64,900 89,995 179,900 259,900 24,900 39,900 42,500 59,900 39,900 64,900 199,900 149,900 229,900

38' 39' 39' 40' 40' 43' 43' 43' 44' 44' 44' 45' 48' 48' 48' 50' 50' 50' 52' 58' 85'

2008 1985 1986 2006 2008 1975 1990 1995 1984 2005 2006 2000 1981 1977 2004 1994 1997 2000 2001 1978 2006

Donzi 38 ZSF Walkaround, Tri-Mercury Verado's, 300hp ..............................$ 199,900 Sea Ray 390 Sedan Bridge, T-Mercruiser 454, 340hp ....................................$ 39,900 Sea Ray 390 Express Cruiser, T-Chevy 540, 275 hp .........................................$ 42,000 Int'l Standard 40 Mariner, T-Cummins, 270hp ..................................................$ 289,900 Sea Ray 400 Sundancer, T-Cummins QSB, 380hp ...........................................$ 324,900 Hatteras 43 Flybridge MY, T-Cummins VT903, 320 hp .....................................$ 99,900 Tiara 4300 Convertible, T-Detroit Diesels 6V92's, 535 hp ...............................$ 179,900 Tiara 4300 Open, T-Detroit Diesels 6V92's, 550 hp ..........................................$ 199,900 Viking 44' Motor Yacht, T-Detroit Diesels 671, 450 hp ....................................$ 149,000 Tiara 4400 Sovran, T-Cummins QSM 11, 660 hp...............................................$ 399,900 Tiara 4400 Sovran, T-Caterpillar C-12, 715 hp...................................................$ 424,900 Silverton 453 Motor Yacht, T-Cummins QSM 11, 535 hp ................................$ 229,900 Hatteras 48 Motor Yacht, T-Detroit Diesel, 6V92's, 425 hp ............................$ 229,900 Hatteras 48 Long Range Cruiser, T-Detroit Diesel, 4-53, 122 hp ...................$ 299,900 Silverton 48' Convertible, T-Caterpillar C-12, 700 hp.......................................$ 449,000 Hatteras 50' Convertible, T-Detroit Diesel 12V-71TA DDEC, 900 hp .............$ 399,900 Hatteras 50' Convertible, T-Caterpillar 3408, 800hp ........................................$ 550,000 Hatteras 50' Convertible, T-Caterpillar 3406E, 800 bhp ..................................$ 565,000 Tiara 5000 Express/5200 Sovran, T-Caterpillar 3406E, 800 bhp .....................$ 379,900 Hatteras 58' Motor Yacht, T-Detroit Diesel 8V92 TA's, 550 hp ......................$ 249,900 Pacific Mariner 85' Pacific Mariner, T-MTU 10V2000, 1500hp .....................$ 3,999,000

2012 CRUISERS CANTIUS 41

Celebrating Our 50th Year as a Family Owned and Operated Marina.

COME SEE THE MIDWEST PREMIER OF THE CRUISERS CANTIUS 41 AT THE PROGRESSIVE CHICAGO BOAT, SPORTS & RV SHOW, JANUARY 12-16

OTHER SELECT YACHTS AVAILABLE:

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Ph: 815-357-8666

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2011 Princess 42

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Brent Reed 616-402-0180

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NORTH SHORE MARINA

TAKE YOUR BOAT FISHING!

Year Round Full Service Marina 821 W. Savidge, Spring Lake, MI 49456

Ph: 616-604-0234 Marina 616-842-1488 •

www.northshoremarina.com

See us at

Chicago Boat Show

January 12-16th, 2012

Grand Rapids Boat Show February 15-19th, 2012

Yellowfin Yachts

Only Midwest Distributor Yellowfin 36’ CC NOW IN STOCK

Authorized Sales & Service

Cantius 41’ Available Now

SELECT PRE-OWNED / BROKERAGE / REPOSSESSIONS / CALL FOR COMPLETE LIST

46’ ’06 Cruisers 460 Exp. Loaded, HT, air/heat, Gen, low hrs, T-430 Volvo Dsl .. $339,900 44’ ‘03 Carver MY, Air/Heat, Gen, Full Electronics, Only 213 Hrs, Diesel ........... $229,900 40’ ‘98 Sea Ray DA, Air/Heat, Gen, Full Elect, T-340HP, Cat Dsls, 640 hrs............ $133,900 40’ ‘99 Carver 406 Aft Cabin, T-7.4L 380HP Mercs, 230 hrs, Air, Gen, Full Elect .. $149,900 39’ ‘06 Cruisers 395 MY, T-8.1 EFI Volvo, Air/Heat, Genset, full elect. low hrs ...$234,900 38’ ‘99 Cruisers 3870 full elect., air/heat, genset, T-380HP, Merc MPI’s Dingy . $119,900 38’ ’99 Carver Santego, Air/Heat, Gen, Radar, Low Hrs, Very Nice, T-7.4L....... $84,900 37’ ‘99 Carver Voyager Sedan, clean 1 owner, full elect, air/heat windlass. ... $114,900 37’ ‘05 Cruisers 370 Exp, T-310HP, Volvo dsls, super clean, loaded, full elect. . $179,900 36’ ‘03 Carver Sport Sedan, Air/Heat, Gen, Full Elect, T-8.1L Crusaders, 230hrs $124,900 35’ ‘02 Carver 355 Aft Cabin, T-7.4L, low hrs, full elect. air/heat, freshwater ... $129,000 33’ ‘03 Maxum SE Exp., T-5.7L, air/heat, low hrs, Arch w/canvas enclosure ......$64,900 33’ ‘03 Monterey 322 Exp., T-350 Mag mercs, 150 hrs, Air/Heat, windlass ...... $65,900 32’ ‘03 Sea Ray DA, T-6.2L V-Drives, 210hrs, air/heat, full elect. Arch w/enclos. $99,900

REPO’S 26’ ‘05 Regal Commodore 27’ ‘89 Tiara Continental 30’ ‘96 Sea Ray Sundancer

Call 800-214-5558 or visit www.GLAngler.com to subscribe!

41’ ‘80 Chris Craft Com. 42’ ‘07 Carver Super Sport 45’ ‘06 Hunter Sailboat 46’ ‘75 Bertram Convertible

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FEATURED LISTINGS 2006 52' Tiara Sovran Salon $679,000

1989 74' Hatteras Cockpit Motor Yacht $599,000

RICK

TED PAT 2005 Sea Ray 500 Sedan Bridge

2004 Tiara 31 Open Harbor Edition

Brokerage Boats, for complete specs & additional photos visit IrishBoatShop.com 50’ Sea Ray 500 Sedan Bridge ’05 .........$490,000 42’ Sea Ray 420 Sundancer ’04 ..............$289,000 39’ Sea Ray 390 Motor Yacht ’03 ............$189,900 37’ Formula 370 SS ’06 .............................$205,000 37’ Chris Craft 37 Constellation ’66 .......... $19,950 36’ Monk 36 Trawler ’01 ...........................$229,000 36’ Sea Ray 360 Sundancer ’04 ..............$167,500 35’ Chris Craft 350 Catalina ’81 ................. $32,900 34’ Sea Ray 340 Sundancer ’99 ................ $74,900 31’ Tiara 31 Open Harbor Edition ’04 .....$134,900 30’ Wellcraft 30 Monico ’89 ...................... $19,500 29’ Sea Ray 290 Sundancer ’95 ................ $29,500 28’ Bayliner 2850 Contessa ’85 ................... $7,000 27’ Carver 27 Santego ’89 .......................... $12,900 26’ Boston Whaler 260 Outrage ’01 ......... $39,999 26’ Sea Ray 260 Sundancer ’05 ................ $55,900

26’ Sea Ray 260 Cuddy Cabin ’89 ............. $13,500 26’ Glacier Bay 2670 Isle Runner ’07 ....... $94,000 26’ Cobalt 263 Cuddy Cabin ’01................. $39,500 26’ Celebrity 268 Crownline Cruiser ’87 .. $12,500 25’ Chris Craft Sportsman ’48 .................$114,900 24’ Chris Craft 248 Concept ’94................. $12,500 23’ Boston Whaler 23 Outrage ’00 ........... $27,900 21’ Boston Whaler 210 Outrage ’04 ......... $36,900 21’ Wellcraft 216 Eclipse ’90 ....................... $6,900 21’ Boston Whaler 21 Outrage ’01 ........... $24,900 20’ Sealegs 6.1 Amphibious Craft ’11 ...... $79,900 17’ Boston Whaler 17 ’71 ........................... $16,900 16’ Donzi 16 Classic ’06 .............................. $22,500 12’ Boston Whaler Impact ’01 .................... $8,000 11’ Aquascan Jet F11 ’00………………. $6,900

13000 Stover Rd. Charlevoix MI 49720

231-547-9967

cvx@irishboatshop.com

400 Bay Street Harbor Springs MI 49740

231-526-6225

hs@irishboatshop.com

www.IrishBoatShop.com 70 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011

Lake & Bay Y A C H T

S A L E S

“Specializing in Larger Yachts” 89’ 74’ Hatteras CPMY T-870HP DSL ................$599,000 87’ 60’ Jefferson Marquessa T-550HP DSL ......$259,900 98’ 53’ Navigator Classic Custom T-430HP.......$349,000 79’ 53’ Hatteras Yachtfish T-435HP DSL............$179,900 06’ 52’ Tiara Sovran Salon T-865HP DSL...........$679,000 86’ 48’ Viking Motor Yacht T-735HP DSL...........$279,000 89’ 47’ Buddy Davis SF T-735HP DSL.................$269,900 86’ 46’ Ocean Sunliner T-450HP DSL ................$115,000 89’ 43’ Bertram Convertible T-550HP DSL ........$169,900 06’ 43’ Egg Harbor SY T-700HP DSL...................$549,900 81’ 43’ Viking Double Cabin T-310HP DSL...........$92,500 07’ 42’ Silverton Convertible T-480HP DSL .......$319,900 83’ 42’ Bertram Convert. T-435HP DSL ..............$125,000 02’ 42’ Egg Harbor SY T-535HP DSL...................$375,000 90’ 41’ Marinette Motor Yacht T-380HP ..............$84,900 88’ 40’ Hatteras Motor Yacht T-375HP DSL ......$149,900 95’ 40’ Sea Ray 400 EC T-330HP ...........................$79,900 95’ 38’ Egg Harbor Golden Egg T-485HP DSL ...$269,900 93’ 37’ Silverton Convertible T-320HP .................$69,900 86’ 37’ Egg Harbor Convertible T-350HP .............$79,900 01’ 37’ Egg Harbor SY T-420HP DSL...................$240,000

PARTIAL LISTINGS BELOW visit us on the web for more!

08’ 36’ Tiara Open T-385HP .................................$299,900 98’ 36’ Sealine F36 T-330 HP DSL .......................$135,000 83’ 36’ Egg Harbor Tournament Fish T-350HP ....$39,900 05’ 36’ Tiara Open T-385HP .................................$239,000 94’ 35’ Carver 350 Aft Cabin T-320HP ..................$59,900 96’ 35’ Carver 355 Motor Yacht T-320HP .............$99,900 89’ 35’ Ocean Super Sport T-350HP.....................$89,900 01’ 34’ Sea Ray Amberjack T-350HP DSL .........$119,900 95’ 34’ Motor Yacht T-320HP .................................$53,900 85’ 34’ Sea Ray Express Cruiser T-350HP ...........$27,500 95’ 34’ Phoenix SFX Convert. T-375HP DSL ......$129,900 99’ 33’ Crownline 330 CR T-310HP........................$59,900 95’ 33’ Sea Ray Sundancer T-300HP ...................$54,200 04’ 33’ Pursuit 3370 Offshore T-250HP...............$129,900 03’ 31’ Tiara Open T-385HP .................................$159,900 97’ 31’ Carver 310 Mid Cabin T-270HP.................$44,900 88’ 31’ Tiara Convertible T-350HP ........................$35,000 96’ 30’ Pursuit 3000 Offshore T-350HP.................$62,900 99’ 24’ Pursuit 2470 CC w/Trl, S-250HP................$29,900

www.yachtworld.com/lakeandbay P.O. BOX 237 | Marblehead, Ohio 43440 | lakeandbay@roadrunner.com

Phone/Fax: 419-798-8511

BOAT LOANS Sail Away From It All Docks starting at $895 WE FOCUS ON SAILBOATS Situated on Historic Lake Erie and minutes from Cedar Point and the Lake Erie Islands our marinas offer many amenities you would expect from a private yacht club with a family friendly atmosphere.

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68’

2002 Sunseeker 68 Predator

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2006 Ocean Alexander 58 Pilothouse

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1997 Cruisers Yachts 3375 Express

56’

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32’

1990 Regal 320 Commodore

52’

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31’

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48’

2006 Ocean Alexander 48 Classicco

31’

1974 Chris Craft Commander Sport

32’

1996 Carver 325 Aft Cabin

30’

2002 Sea Ray 300 Sundancer

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2001 Shamrock 290 WA

27’

2007 Regal 2700 Fastrac Bowrider

27’

2005 Regal 2765 Commodore

46’ 2010 Cruisers Yachts 440 Express 44’ 2005 Cruisers Yachts 440 Express 43’

2003 Cruisers Yachts 4370 Express

42’

2003 Sea Ray 420 Sundancer Diesels

42’

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38’

1985 Chris-Craft 382

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2003 Cruisers Yachts 3772 Express

26’

1992 Cruisers Yachts 2670 Rogue

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2006 Pursuit 2570 Offshore

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1998 Cruisers Yachts 3585 Flybridge

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1983 Cruisers Yachts Beachcomber

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1989 Cobalt 293 Cuddy

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We know the water is always calling

New Used Refinance Limited Charter High Performance

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Up North, Dreams Do Come True!

“On the water in Harbor Springs since 1946.”

Tiara 3100 Coronet special pricing

HARBOR SPRINGS, MI

CHEBOYGAN, MI

WALSTROM.COM 231-627-7105 231-526-2141

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BAY HARBOR, MI

231-439-2741

POWERBOATS 48’ DUFFY & DUFFY Trawler, ‘94, built to yacht standards, loaded, Bristol, 1 owner ...........................$450,000 47’ BAYLINER 4788 Pilothouse ‘00. Cummins Dls, one owner, loaded, freshwater boat .......................259,500 42’ JEFFERSON 42 Sundeck, ‘88, 375 hp Cat power, updated elect, bow thruster, loaded .....................99,500 42’ HATTERAS Conv, ‘76, Cummins Dsl, maintained to new condition, beautiful classic, loaded ....... 99,500 42’ HOLIDAY MANSION, ‘91, live aboard ready, one owner, excellent condition ....................................42,500 41’ VIKING Cnv, ‘85, Crusader power, gen, air, side cabin, lightly used, exc cond .................................69,500 40’ SEA RAY Sundancer, ‘00, Cat Diesel power, full Raytheon elect, windlass, one owner .................159,900 39’ SEA RAY 390, ‘87. Mercruiser power, gen, radar, windlass, air, nice classic .....................................39,900 37’ FOUR WINNS 378, ‘02, Volvo 375 hp gas, Raytheon elect, gen, air, loaded, like new .....................110,000 35’ CARVER 350 Aft Cabin, ‘94. hardtop, gen, new Raytheon radar/GPS, windlass, best .......................69,000 34’ SEA RAY Sundancer, ‘02, Raytheon elect, gen, windlass, new canvas, like new ..............................99,500 32’ REGAL 3260 Commodore, ‘04, Volvo 320 hp I/O, full Raytheon elect, air cond, loaded ...................92,000 32’ ISLAND GYPSY Europa, ‘95. Cimmuns 250 hp Dsl, bow thruster, air cond, windlass, loaded ..........89,900 28’ BERTRAM Flybridge, ‘75/’06, Diesel power, boat was extensively rebuilt with new in 2006..........125,000

The easy, effortless way to load and launch your dInghy! excellent qualIty, compact desIgn, maIntenance free, affordable.

SAILBOATS 36’ ISLANDER Freeport, ‘79. Mid-ship master, air cond, furling genoa, loaded, exc. cond .................$54,500 35’ HUNTER 356, ‘03, furling main and genoa, full Raytheon elect., 3 cabin, 1 owner, like new ............95,000 34’ O’DAY, ‘84, updated sails, furling, berths for 6, full galley and electronics, exc. condition ..............35,000

More Boats Needed To Sell!

Our Boats Are Selling! “we see every boat we list we don’t list every boat we see”

Boyne City, Michigan

800-582-6886 yacht brokers Since 1977 serving the marine community since 1970 72 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011

www.prodav.net

prodav@ymail.com

Boat Loans

Purchase Refinance Pre Approval Low Rates

55’ 50’ 42’ 41’ 40’ 40’ 38’ 37’ 37’ 36’ 36’ 34’ 34’ 33’ 32’ 31’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 27’ 26’

‘90 ‘03 ‘87 ‘97 ‘09 ‘96 ‘00 ‘00 ‘04 ‘88 ‘87 ‘07 ‘01 ‘76 ‘98 ‘98 ‘68 ‘93 ‘89 ‘81 ‘02 ‘90

Fleming ........................................................................$495,000 Sea Ray .......................................................................$449,000 Jefferson.....................................................................$129,900 Maxum ..........................................................................$89,000 Fathom pilothouse .....................................................$425,000 Sea Ray .........................................................................$99,900 Sea Ray .......................................................................$129,900 Nordic Tug ..................................................................$299,900 Nordic Tug ..................................................................$349,000 Island Gypsy 36 Aft Cabin ..........................................$68,500 Grand Banks...............................................................$149,900 Sea Ray .......................................................................$159,900 Powerquest ..................................................................$91,000 Egg Harbor....................................................................$11,000 Nordic Tug ..................................................................$149,000 Duffy Lobster Boat ....................................................$120,000 Chris Craft Constellation ............................................$15,900 Sea Ray .........................................................................$29,900 Sea Ray .........................................................................$33,000 Carver ............................................................................$16,000 Sea Ray Sundeck ........................................................$41,900 Wellcraft .......................................................................$17,000

2012 New Membership Drive New member dockage plan available

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Need more information?

Contact Kris Henninger at 419-726-3485 ext. 201, kris@toledoyachtclub.com or visit www.toledoyachtclub.com

BERGMANN MARINE

Charlevoix, MI 49720 • Phone 231/547-3957

www.bergmannmarine.com 20’ 22’ 22’ 23’ 23’ 24’ 26’ 26’ 27’ 28’ 28’ 28’ 30’ 33’ 33’ 36’ 33’

2006 Sea Pro 206 C.C. .......................... $ 17,500 1990 IMP 220 Walkaround.................. $ 10,500 1991 Chris-Craft Concept.................... $ 9,500 1978 Slickcraft SS-235 ......................... $ 7,900 1959 Lyman Sportsman ....................... $ 8,500 1987 Sea Ray 240 Sorrento................. $ 6,700 1957 Chris-Craft Sport Express ......... $ 49,900 2003 Regal 2665 Commodore............. $ 32,000 1987 Pearson Sloop ............................. $ 16,900 1979 Cruisers 288 Villa-Vee................ $ 18,500 2001 Four Winns 285 ............................ $ 32,000 2007 Chris-Craft Launch 28 ................ $ 99,900 1993 Sea Ray Weekender .................. $ 39,900 1983 Bertram Flybridge ....................... $ 49,900 1998 Sea Ray Sundancer.................... $ 75,000 1987 Tiara Convertible w/Dsls ........... $ 125,500 2002 Wellcraft 330 Coastal................. $ 98,500

Fiberglass – Woodworking Storage – Heated Storage

U Custom-Built Boats U Yacht Interior Refits U First Class Antique & Classic Wooden Boat Restoration U Paint Jobs & Bright Work U Expert Fiberglass Repair

34’ 35’ 35’ 36’ 36’ 37’ 39’ 39’ 40’ 40’ 41’ 41’ 42’ 42’ 43’ 47’

1987 Sea Ray Sport Fisherman ......... $ 32,000 1990 Sea Ray Sundancer ................... $ 49,000 1995 Trojan 350 Express ..................... $ 43,000 1996 Saberline Express ....................... $ 165,000 1994 Sabre 362....................................... $ 159,000 1977 Endeavour Ketch......................... $ 34,000 1986 Sea Ray 390 Express.................. $ 79,000 2001 Silverton 392 MY.......................... $ 125,000 1994 Hatteras Double Cabin .............. $ 165,000 1994 Sea Ray Express Diesels .......... $ 125,000 1975 Chris Craft Commander ............. $ 45,900 2002 Tiara 4100 Open ........................... $ 299,000 2006 Beneteau Trawler ....................... $ 349,000 2000 Provincial Trawler ....................... $ 169,500 1995 Tiara 4300 Open ........................... $ 199,900 1973 Chris Craft Commander............. $ 135,000

Complete Mechanical Electrical Rigging – Haulout

POWER BOATS 26’ ‘87 Cruisers Vee Sport ........... 12,700 25’ ‘97 Proline 251 W/A ................ 27,500 26’ ‘87 Cruisers Vee Sport ........... 12,700 27’ ‘98 Four Winns 278 ................ 31,900 28’ ‘90 Cruisers 2870.................... 19,900 29’ ‘87 Cruisers Sea Devil........... 25,500 29’ ‘94 Baha Cruiser 299 ............. 24,900 29’ ‘94 Sea Ray 290 ...................... 28,900 31’ ‘97 Carver 310 EX ................... 44,900 32’ Wellcraft St.Tropez 3 starting@ 18,900 32’ ‘98 Pro Line 3250 ..................... 49,900 32’ ‘85 Carver 3207........................ 19,900 33’ ‘95 Sea Ray Sundancer ......... 59,500 34’ ‘92 Silverton 34X ..................... 49,900 34’ ‘01 Sea Ray 340 ....................... 95,500

35’ ‘94 Carver 350 Aft ................... 78,900 36’ ‘88 Sportcraft Pesca .............. 39,900 36’ ‘82 Carver 3607 Aft ................. 36,500 37’ ‘88 Chris Craft Amerosport ... 49,500 37’ ‘78 Vinette Steel Trawler ....... 49,900 37’ ‘95 Cruisers 3775..................... 84,900 38’ ‘82 PT Trawler ....................... 125,000 38’ ‘88 Chris Craft 381................... 69,200 38’ ‘04 Regal 3880 ....................... 189,900 39’ ‘88 Sea Ray 390 ....................... 61,900 40’ ‘04 Carver 404 CP/MY .......... 125,500 40’ ‘94 Mainship Sedan ............. 119,900 40’ ‘87 Hatteras Motor Yacht ... 139,500 42’ ‘87 Carver Aft .......................... 99,500 42’ ‘78 Grand Banks Classic ....... 98,500

5309 E. Wilder Rd. Bay City, MI 48706

Ph: 989-684-5010 • info@bayharborbaycity.com

42’ ‘82 Bertram FBMY ................ 135,900 43’ ‘95 Wellcraft 4350 Portofino 145,000 44’ ‘86 Marine Trader Double Cabin 118,900 46’ ‘77 Bertam FBMY.................. 118,900 46’ ‘04 Craver 466........................ 229,900 50’ ‘92 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer 220,000 52’ ‘63 Chris Craft Connie ............ 39,500

SAIL BOATS

27’ ‘73 Catalina ................................ 8,750 27’ ‘74 Catalina ................................ 8,900 30’ ‘84 O’Day .................................. 24,900 30’ ‘79 S-2 9.2A .............................. 22,900 30’ ‘76 Catalina 30 ......................... 18,500 32’ ‘94 Sea Ward 32 Eagle........... 39,900 33’ ‘05 Hunter 33 ........................... 94,000 34’ ‘96 Gemini 105M ..................... 84,950 37’ ‘81 Hunter ................................ 34,500

Details on over 150 listings at

www.kellymarinesales.com

Does the barbecue on your boat need a Cleaner Cook?

Call or visit our website for specials!

Custom-built 28 foot Deluxe Sportsman

(425) 530-6376 www.cleanercook.com

Sandusky, OH www.custommarine.biz 419.621.1188 73 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011

marine marketplace

Fresh Water Power!

Trident Funding

lakeshore life

Copper Harbor, Michigan Own a resort on the Keweenaw Peninsula.

The Mariner North Resort 245 Gratiot St. Copper Harbor, MI 49918 906-289-4637 Resort Specs Total Rooms: 18 Total Sq. Footage: 20,000 Acres: 2.75 Price: Contact agent Contact Robin Grosshuesch Natural Realty 734-260-0475

74 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

N

BY COLLE E N H . TROU PI S

estled in the center of Copper Harbor, a natural harbor of refuge off Lake Superior, the Mariner North Resort has been attracting customers from near and far for more than 34 years.

It’s no wonder. Located on the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, Copper Harbor is becoming an increasingly popular destination for folks interested in year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, skiing, sailing and more.

“Probably 95 percent of the people who come here come here to do something they’re passionate about, because of our spectacular terrain,” says Peg Kauppi, who, along with husband Don, currently owns the resort, which is for sale.

The area’s mountain biking is attracting people from across the nation and world, and 250 miles of groomed snowmobile trails are ready and waiting to be explored.

“The Mariner North, located about a block from the shore, is here to help people relax, reenergize and renew,” Kauppi adds. “People come for the terrain and stay because of our amenities.”

And the Mariner North’s amenities are part of what

make it so unique. The original resort was lost to fire in 1991, but the Kauppis took advantage of the opportunity to rebuild. That makes the resort uniquely both the newest in the area and the most established.

Reconstruction efforts included creation of a 7,800-square-foot main lodge with a soaring 35-foot cathedral ceiling, lounge area and a casual dining/bar area that can seat up to 150 people.

The additional structures now on site — all done in a log-cabin style — house 12 motel rooms, one honeymoon suite and five two-story log cabins. All lodging options include Jacuzzi-style double-size bathtubs and in-floor heating. The 900-square-foot cabins boast two bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen, while the motel rooms run about 420 square feet with a wet bar, refrigerator and coffee station.

“We’re a destination for weddings, family reunions and college gatherings,” Kauppi says.

The quality of life for potential buyers looking to relocate to Copper Harbor leaves little to be desired.

There’s a state marina about a third of a mile away, a gorgeous park across the street from the resort and, for those with children, even a one-room schoolhouse.

PHOTOS BY KAREN KARL, AURORA PHOTOGRAPHY/AURORASTUDIOS.NET

For Sail, Power & Pontoons Boats

Remanufacturerd transmissions in stock.

Older transmissions our speciality.

Distributors of the Drivesaver flexible couplings and mounts, oil coolers and dampers.

Dealer Inquiries Invited 2706 Portage St., Kalamazoo, MI 49001 • 269-345-0629

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR

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• Increase speed • Reduce fuel consumption • Eliminate propeller induced vibration • Enable sync of multiple engines 2401 Sawmill Parkway Suite1 Huron, OH 44839

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> 2-bedroom log cabins > Motel > Mainer Restaurant on site > Relaxing lounge with big screen TVs > Next to Mt. Bohemia, the largest vertical drop for skiing in the Midwest > The largest snowmobile trail in Michigan > Groomed cross country ski trails

Performance Fiberglass Services LLC Fiberglass Boat Repair & More • Complete interior/exterior renovations • Equipment upgrades • Complete topside & bottom painting • Stringer, transom & deck repair or replacement • Custom built hardtops, swim decks, bow pulpit & fly bridges

• Fuel tank replacement • NuTeak Dealer (All the beauty of teak without the work) • Custom windshield & glass repair • Custom Fabrications • In-shop work done on boats up to 45'

734-282-6880 • email: zabor@aol.com www.performancefiberglassservices.com/home

75 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011

marine marketplace

Winter Tarps & Frame Systems

ask an expert

Joy Ride

Clint Moore, president and CEO of Volvo Penta of the Americas, explains the function and benefits of Volvo’s IPS.

LB: In simple terms, what is Inboard Performance System (IPS)?

Moore: IPS is a completely integrated propulsion system in which the forward and reverse functions, throttle control, steering and exhaust are integrated in the propulsion unit. All user commands are electronically controlled and executed via a CAN-BUS system: EVC (Electronic Vessel Control). There are many advantages, including maneuverability for easy docking via joystick, faster acceleration, increased speed, reduced fuel consumption and less emissions.

CONTACT Volvo Penta of the Americas, Inc. 1300 Volvo Penta Drive Chesapeake, VA 23320 757-436-2800 clint.moore@volvo.com volvopenta.com

76 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

LB: How long does it take to learn the system?

Moore: Learning how to maneuver and dock a vessel with the joystick is quick, with virtually no learning curve. It takes the average user 30 minutes or less to master a 45-foot vessel.

LB: What boats are best-suited to IPS? Moore: Just about any boat greater than 30 feet, including express cruisers, flybridge and sportfish yachts, semi-displacement hulls, commercial planing vessels, fast ferries and so on.

LB: How does Volvo Penta’s Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) work?

Moore: A GPS signal is integrated in the EVC system.

When the DPS is engaged, the vessel holds that position and heading.

LB: What about Sport Fish Mode?

Moore: This mode allows unsurpassed back-down and control via the precise and individual control of each propulsion unit.

LB: How are the pods located?

Moore: They must be installed on the same plane across the transom. The engines can be installed with a jack-shaft anywhere between 12 inches and 96 inches forward of the pod units.

LB: Why is there virtually no smoke or smell?

Moore: Engine exhaust exits underwater through specially designed ports on the trailing end of the pod units. The exhaust eventually bubbles up to the surface several yards behind the boat, keeping transoms clean and occupants breathing clean air.

LB: What are the additional benefits?

Moore: Due to various electronics and engineering advances, Volvo Penta’s IPS delivers a 40 percent longer range and a 20 percent increase in top speed. With 30 percent less fuel consumption, there is a corresponding reduction in CO2 emissions. The noise level is reduced by half.

LB: Can they be retrofitted?

Moore: We have retrofitted a number of vessels with some modification.

LB: How much do IPS systems cost?

Moore: Compared to a conventional inboard system providing equal performance, IPS commands a small premium made worthwhile by reducing operating costs over the life of the product.

LB: How does the joystick work?

Moore: Each propulsion unit can be steered independently of the others, so when the joystick is pointed in the desired direction, the Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) calculates and sets steering angles, shift position and engine speed.

On the market for eight years, Volvo Penta has shipped 15,000 IPS units globally. The system is used by 120-plus boatbuilders around the globe on more than 200 different boat models. Volvo Penta is a world-leading supplier of engines and complete power systems for marine and industrial applications. The company has a deep commitment to quality, safety and environmental care.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VOLVO PENTA

38’ 1995 CARVER SANTEGO, (2) 454 Crusaders, Mercruiser generator, 560 hours, Radar, GPS, dual air/heat, loaded, excellent condition, well maintained, heated storage.

Priced to sell $65,900 w/Pentwater slip thru 2012.

Call 616-490-3814 or e-mail dleep@pecopage.com. JAN12

2010 22-FT ANDROS BOATS, PERMIT Our Trade, Excellent Condition, Yamaha 150hp 4S, Bimini Top, Trailer, Garmin electronics, Great flats or bay fishing boat.

Asking $32,500.

Call Tim @ Reed Yacht Sales, (419) 509-6948 RYS 1972 GRAND BANKS 32' SEDAN. Wood, Ford Lehman 120 diesel. Completely restored 1999, new canvas 2010. $29,500. Make offer 218-525-4522.

APR12

Reduc ed!

2000 380 SEA RAY SUNDANCER Ready for Great Lakes Salmon. TURNKEY 24' 1984 AQUASPORT OSPREY CC. 2000 Johnson 225hp (400 freshwater hours) and 2006 Mercury 15hp 4cycle trolling motor(5 hours). Includes two 5’ electric downriggers, planner boards, new electronics, all new fishing gear. Invested over $25,000. Must sell price (medical issues) $11,500. ($10,000 without trolling motor). 607-351-5999. JAN12

1986 25.5 FT REGAL AMBASSADOR 255XL. Brand New Sunbrella bimini top in June 2011. Runs good. Trailer included. Call 269-209-1516.

JAN12

2000 SEA RAY 380 SUNDANCER T7.4 Merc. HorizonsGarmin. 2010 GPS, low hours (280). Excellent. Like new. Best offer. 315-469-1712 days, 315-476-3901 eve and weekends.

JAN12

2005 TIARA 32 OPEN. 8.1 Crusaders, E120 w/ digital sounder, autopilot, open array, pristine, $179,000.

Jeff 517-202-2123. NO BROKERS! MAR12

2006 SEA RAY 320 SUNDANCER, 100hrs, T350 Mag MPI V-drives, Radar C80 Chartplotter, Cockpit frig, Premium Sound, Deck Sun pad, Pristine condition, inside storage.

Mar ‘11 survey. $129,900. ewbeddigs@sbcglobal.net or 708-774-1079.

APR12

ed!

Reduc

1996 BAYLINER 2859 CIERA EXPRESS. $29,500 Great Condition 454 Mercruiser, Triaxle trailer $12,000-Extras Raymarine, Furuno, downriggers, etc.

989-429-1507 pier_101@hotmail.com APR12

2000 TIARA 31 OPEN. T-320 HP Crusaders, gasoline. Teak/ holly sole. Pristine Condition. 490 hours. $119,900. Call Kevin 419-376-0754 FEB12

1987 SEA RAY 340 SPORT FISHERMAN. 34’, Low hours, twin 454s, freshwater only, heated storage in winter.

Includes Achilles 10’2” inflatable boat w/ 8HP. $33,500 OBO. Ask for George 906-341-6955.

APR12

1999 TIARA 3500 OPEN, LOA 35’-6”, Beam 13’-3”, 7.4 Crusader Gas Engines 485 hrs., Canvas like new, Full electronics, Teak/holly sole, Air conditioning, Professionally maintained, Lake Erie boat, $128,900.00.

419-433-8071 or pewman@mac.com MAR12

40’ 1967 CHRIS CRAFT CORINTHIAN. Rare awesome award winner. Needs nothing. Nov ‘08 survey.

Please, serious inquiries only. 586-791-3744 eve., 248-588-4410 day.

JAN12

ed!

Reduc

2000 CRUISERS YACHTS 4270 EXPRESS Low Hr. 430 Volvos New Radar+ Plotter Dinghy MTR Lift Underwater Lights $179,900. 219-741-0212.

JAN12

2005 TIARA 4400 SOVRAN Cummins QSM 11, 660hp diesels, 300 hours, LOADED, Bow & Stern Thrusters, Newer Electronics, SAT TV, SAT Radio, SAT Weather, Custom Teak Package, L-Lounge, New Canvas, MUST SEE! Asking $399,900.

Call Brent @ Reed Yacht Sales, (616) 402-0180 RYS 77 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

classifieds: boats for sale

ed!

Reduc

classifieds: boats for sale

BAYLINER 4588 1988. 220 hp diesel 12.5 kw genset, 10ft boston whaler, freshwater, full canvas. Fully equipped. $200,000. For info michael.tallon@videotron.ca, 450-667-9976 FEB12

2005 OCEAN ALEXANDER. 54 LOA (2)500HP Yanmars330 hrs, dual stations, full Raymarine electronics,12KW gen, Air, Zodiac H/B, deluxe bridge. $585,000.

920-739-7668.

FEB12

1991 VIKING 66/CMY 1991 VIKING 66 Custom Cockpit Motoryacht, One Owner, Excellent Condition Freshwater Boat, Many Upgrades, Meticulously Maintained, Teak Interior, $550K Repower Twin 1200hp MAN (300hrs) 21/22kt Cruise. Trade Considered-Motivated Seller $495,000 with 80' slip.

800-213-3323.

JAN12

2006 CRANCHI/MEDITERRANEE 47HT

w/twin Volvo Penta D9 Diesel Power, Bow Thurster, Full Raytheon Electronics Package - “Style, Luxury with Performance” Call Today for More Info.

800-213-3323.

JAN12

2001 TIARA 5200 EXPRESS Freshwater, One Owner, 2 SR/2 Heads, Cherry Interior, Tiara Davit, Excellent Condition, Newer Electronics, Sat TV, MUST SEE! Asking $379,900.

Call Brent @ Reed Yacht Sales, (616) 402-0180 RYS

2009 TIARA 5800 SOVRAN. Only 160 hrs. All fresh water and heated storage. Save 1/2 million from my cost new.

312-953-7937.

JAN12

BOAT LOANS Lake Effect

Financial Services, LLC

1990 53’ JEFFERSON MARQUESSA walk around. Detroit 6V92’s, 3 staterooms, 3 heads. Extensive remodel / upgrades. Custom pilothouse. Zodiac. Never salt.

WWW.ARKATIE.COM, 612-850-2000 APR12

MAKE YOUR AD STAND OUT. Add color and a border.

For details, call 800-331-0132 ext. 21

78 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

William Otto, III 2907 S. Horseshoe Dr., Grandville, MI 49418 PH: 616-538-5777 CELL: 216-577-1460 EMAIL: billotto3@gmail.com

Originating agent for:

DOCKOMINIUMS FOR SALE 40’, 60’, 88’ DOCKOMINIUMS FOR SALE at beautiful Duncan Bay Boat Club. Clubhouse, pool, floating docks, wifi & more. Straits of Mackinaw.

866-993-3625, sales@duncanbay.com FEB12

Charters BAREBOAT CANADA’S FABULOUS NORTH CHANNEL, LAKE HURON. 25 power and sailboats, 27’-50’, cruise and learn, skippered. Canadian Yacht Charters, Gore Bay, Ontario. 800-565-0022. email: info@cycnorth.com, www.cycnorth.com RUC

Powerboat REDUCED AGAIN! ‘95 500 DA SEA RAY. Heated storage, T-550 Detroits. 502 hrs. Clean and equipped. Fresh water only. $235,000. ph: 216-469-7000 FEB12

Help Wanted EAST COAST BOW THRUSTERS INC is seeking a sales rep to promote bow and stern thruster installations in the Great Lakes region. Start immediately. Excellent opportunity for the right person. Call Joe 845-551-1975. www.ecbowthrusters.com JAN12

“All my leads came from Lakeland Boating, and I sold it through Lakeland Boating.”

—Wayne Cannava of Gilman Yachts, former broker of a 1989 54’ Hatteras

“I sold my boat through Lakeland Boating and I’m very happy. The ad hit the audience I needed to reach.”

—Ken F., former owner of a 2000 Sea Ray

Order online at www.lakelandboating.com or mail this form. All online orders will receive a free online listing!

ORDER FORM Place my classified ad in the following issues: ❏ ❏

January August

❏ ❏

February ❏ March ❏ April ❏ May ❏ June ❏ July September ❏ October ❏ November/December

Category (only one per ad): ❏ Power

❏ Sail ❏ Other

20 words to include length, year, make, model, features, price, phone and email address.

Don’t forget your phone number!

4-Month Special

20 Words With 1 Photo: $250 Without Photo: $150 Additional words are $1.50 each

Monthly Rates

20 Words With 1 Photo: $90 Without Photo: $40 Additional words are $1.50 each

Order online or mail this form to:

Lakeland Boating Classifieds 727 South Dearborn, Suite 812 Chicago, IL 60605

Payment: We can accept Visa and MasterCard and checks ONLY for mail-in orders Name Address

Free online listing only applies to ads placed online. Sorry but no refunds once the ad is placed.

Photos will be returned only if you enclose an SASE. Lakeland Boating reserves the right to edit copy for spelling, length, format, etc.

Questions? Call 800-331-0132 x21 classifieds@lakelandboating.com

City

State

Day phone

Zip

Evening phone

Email Visa/MasterCard number

Expiration date

Name as it appears on credit card

Amount enclosed

Deadlines:

Feb. issue is Dec. 9, March issue is Jan. 16

Ads received after deadline are automatically placed in the next issue.

79 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 012

classifieds: boats for sale

The Best Way to D SOL Sell Your Boat Fast!

above the waterline

The Green Oar Solution Save money with manpower.

BY DAVE WALLACE

S

o here you are, reading a magazine dedicated to the unique appeal of boating on the Great Lakes, while so many other generalist media outlets try their best to spoil the mood with endless stories of unemployment, job shrinkage and increasing fuel prices. The fuel issue is further compounded by bio-fuel formulas. A “Scuttlebutt” feature in the March 2011 issue of this magazine even suggested the danger of certain formulations, some of which can cause engine damage and even plastic fuel tank leakage.

Speaking as the former owner of a cruiser with a 400-gallon fuel capacity, I know first-hand about fuel dock sticker shock, even back then in the “low price” days. Today, it would probably short out my pacemaker.

But all this negativity can be canceled out by my “Green Oar” epiphany. It came to me while watching the 1959 blockbuster movie Ben Hur. The finale is a chariot race, but my big epiphany came from the scenes of Ben shackled to an oar as a galley slave. If multiple oars could move heavy Roman naval vessels, just imagine what they could do for lightweight Great Lakes cruisers.

Now stay with me here, because I’m thinking in terms of jobs rather than slavery, combined with the added benefit of zero fuel costs. I’m realistic enough to know that many details will have to be sorted out, but the basics of the plan are easy to envision: ❚ The name of the plan would be the “Green Oar Solution,” because I’ve observed that anything with the word “green” in it is automatically worthy of generous subsidies.

80 LAKELANDBOATING.COM JANUARY 2012

❚ This new source of income would cover the costs of developing, producing and operating Green Oar-powered cruising boats. ❚ The elimination of engines, transmissions, shafts, props, instrumentation and fuel tanks would more than compensate for the cost of below deck seating for the oars-people. ❚ Boat length would determine crew size. My guess would be anywhere from four to 20. The emphasis would be on comfort, with ergonomically designed seats facing bulkhead mounted flat screen TVs. The headphones could switch from movies to iPod selections or satellite radio. ❚ The need for a drummer to set the stroking pace would be eliminated by silent flashing lights, governed by the “throttle” setting of the skipper, but the physics involved would pretty much eliminate need for sophisticated planing hull designs. ❚ Crewmembers would be students or government employees working under the newly created Department of Nautical Resources and housed in subsidized barracks added to every state-approved marina. Off-duty crewmembers would be utilized by marinas for boat cleaning and general area maintenance. ❚ Student oars-people interested in earning extra credits could utilize free copies of “Chapman Piloting: Seamanship and Small Boat Handling,” available in every barrack. ❚ As with all federally funded programs, including the military, qualification for oar duty will not be limited by sex or sexual preference. Crews will be assembled by uniformity of oar stroking potential — not sex, color or national origin.

Now for one last thought. If the above-outlined program suggests a need for increased taxation, please think it through before you complain. As things stand today, you are financially responsible for every single thing involving your boat. If your state does include a provision for Green Oar funding as part of its total revenue program, all non-boating citizens will be contributing to your fun without even knowing it. And their housebound teenagers could be employed building healthy bodies out on the open water instead of slinging fries and burgers, or slouching over video games.

Green oars and blue water — sounds like the perfect solution to recovery.

DAVE WALLACE has been boating in the

Great Lakes for more than 35 years. He’s written for Lakeland Boating since 1993 and helped develop the first edition of Lakeland Boating’s Ports o’ Call cruising guides.

ILLUSTRATION BY MIKE HARRIS

STINGRAY BOATS ARE AVAILABLE AT THESE GREAT LAKES AREA DEALERS USA DEALERS Silver Lake Marine Thomson Marine Anderson Boat Sales Buckeye Sports Center Carl Stirns Marine Fremac Marine Sales Gamble Distributors Grand Bay Marine 4213 W Lake Road 5425 Racetrack Rd 6477 Highland Road 4610 State Road 640 N Broadway 1801 Route 31 291 N US 31 S 37231 NYS Rt 3 Silver Springs NY Sheboygan WI Waterford MI Peninsula OH Aurora IL Bridgeport NY Traverse City MI Carthage NY 585-237-5185 920-457-8855 248-666-9922 330-929-3366 630-896-3050 315-633-2661 231-943-0333 315-493-2270 andersonboatsales.com buckeyesportscenter.com stirnsmarine.com fremacmarine.com gamblespartsonline.com grandbaymarine.com silverlakemarine.com thomsonmarine.com

CANADA DEALERS Bala Cove Marina 1021 Gordon Street Bala, Ontario 705-762-1553 balacovemarina.com

Brennan Marine Ltd 67 Mill Street Gananoque, Ontario 613-382-3137 brennanmarine.ca

Central Marine 171 Midland Avenue Midland, Ontario 705-526-4251 centralmarine.ca

Huntsville Marine 373 Highway 60 Huntsville, Ontario 705-789-5522 huntsvillemarine.com

Leisure Marine 5781 Highway 7 Woodbridge, Ontario 905-851-3903 leisuremarine.com

Maple City Marine 680 Grand Avenue E Chatham, Ontario 519-354-3640 maplecitymarine.com

Pirate Cove Marina 4304 Rideau River Rd Kemptville, Ontario 613-258-2325 piratecovemarina.com

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

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