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JAN UAR Y 202 2
FOUR WINNS H4
Redefining a runabout. p. 28
BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 45
Let the light in. p. 32
SEA-DOO SWITCH
You’ve never seen a pontoon quite like this before. p. 36
PROTECT THE LAKES
How several organizations are working to protect our waters. p. 40
PORT OF CALL
Milwaukee, WI: This city has it all — great beer, good food, art, fun and history. p. 44
SPOTL I GHT S R E GUL AT O R ★ SAB R E S I R E N A ★ WALKE R B AY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Features
Boat Test: Four Winns H4
Pretty cool. by Chuck Warren ..............................................28
Boat Test: Beneteau Gran Turismo 45
The quality of light. by John Wooldridge ................................. 32
Plastic Fantastic
With the Sea-Doo Switch series, BRP reimagines the pontoon boat. by Charles Plueddeman .................................. 36
Protecting and Preserving the Great Lakes
How different organizations are working to save the greatest freshwater bodies of water on the planet. by Kim Racette ................................................................. 40 Whitecaps & Bottle Caps: Wisconsin’s largest city along Lake Michigan features urban green spaces, miles of bicycling trails, a downtown filled with cultural attractions and vibrant riverfront development. A craft brewery boom and innovation from local chefs proves Milwaukee’s got a lot more to offer than brats and cheap beer when in port. by Kristine Hansen ................ 44
ON THE COVER
The brand-new Four Winns H4 has reinvented the classic runabout. Just take one look around this 24-footer and you’ll be wowed by standard features, like the cleverly hidden garbage receptacle and angled swim platform ladder, as well as great add-ons, like the stunning Elevate design package. See for yourself!
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PHOTO BY JPELLGEN
Port of Call: Milwaukee, WI
Departments
From the Helm......................................................................... 4 Dock Box................................................................................... 6
Calendar ................................................................................... 8 Scuttle............................................................................................10 Great Gear ............................................................................ 16
Don’t Hesitate to Renovate................................................. 18
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lakelandboating.com
★ Shop boats for sale by owner ★ Place a classified ad ★ Peruse dozens of exciting destination stories ★ Check out our latest Boat Tests & Spotlights ★ Purchase our Great Lakes Cruising Guides and Lakeland Boating hats ★ Access past issues with our online magazine ★ Stay current on all the latest Great Lakes news ★ Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter ★ And much more!
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Electronics ............................................................................ 20 Safety First ............................................................................. 21 Beneath the Surface............................................................. 22
Boat Spotlights: Regulator, Sabre, Sirena, Walker Bay .... 24
Boat Biz: Gifts Afloat ........................................................... 50 Lakeshore Life: South Haven, MI ....................................... 52
Marine Marketplace ............................................................. 53 Classifieds ..............................................................................67
Classic Craft ......................................................................... 68
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
11/23/21 7:36 AM
FROM THE HELM B Y K AT E B U S H
CONTRIBUTORS
Happy New Year!
A
KEVIN KOENIG
t the end of October 2021, I attended my first boat show in two full years, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Last year’s event was a rolled-back affair, but the 2021 was a re-entry into the pre-pandemic crowd size and number of boats in the water, even despite travel restrictions for some boatbuilders and interested buyers overseas. While there were not as many new boat debuts as usual — likely due to supply chain issues and precaution from boatbuilders — I did get a chance to see several cool, innovative models, including the Four Winns H4 bowrider, which our contributor Chuck Warren also sea trialed for our cover story (p. 28). See my roundup of FLIBS boat debuts in our “Scuttle” department (p. 12). Another new head-turning model is the Sea-Doo Switch — BRP’s take on a pontoon boat (p. 36). Based around a plastic hull and jetdrive engine, the Switch is an affordable way to get into boating. It’s modular design allows boaters to reconfigure the deck however they desire, and the helm is a mirror image of Sea-Doo’s PWC handlebar system. The Great Lakes have been in the news a lot recently, and not for the best of reasons (abnormally warm water in Lake Superior, aquatic invasive species and plastic pollution, to name a few). Contributor Kim Racette speaks with several Great Lakes-based organizations that are working to keep our lakes great for generations to come (p. 40). We also travel to Wisconsin’s largest city, known affectionately as Brew City, for this month’s Port of Call (p. 44). Milwaukee has so much to see and do, it’s definitely worth adding to your year’s cruising schedule. Cheers to a New Year that will hopefully be filled with new cruising adventures!
Kevin is an award-winning journalist living and working in Greenwich, Connecticut. His 12 years in the marine industry have helped him live a fulfilling and adventure-laden life thus far. At 39, he remains pretty much up for whatever. READ HIS STORIES ON P. 24
HHH
KRISTINE HANSEN
Based on the shores of Lake Michigan in Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood, Kristine is the author of “Wisconsin Cheese Cookbook: Creamy, Cheesy, Sweet, and Savory Recipes from the State’s Best Creameries” and “Wisconsin Farms and Farmers Markets: Tours, Trails and Attractions.” She also writes for Milwaukee Magazine, Midwest Living Magazine and websites for Fodor’s, Architectural Digest and Martha Stewart. READ HER STORY ON P. 44
Do you have a story idea you’d like to suggest? Email me at kbush@lakelandboating.com to share your ideas.
HHH
AREAS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE
CHARLES PLUEDDEMAN
Charles, A Good Man to Have Along, has been writing about marine engine technology, high-performance and trailerable powerboats since 1986. He lives in Wisconsin and still loves to smell two-stroke exhaust in the morning. READ HIS STORY ON P. 36
Milwaukee, WI p. 44
Gifts Afloat p. 50 South Haven, MI p. 52
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T R A DIT ION M E E T S
I N N O V A T I O N
I N T R O D U C I N G T H E A L L- N E W H - S E R I E S We are thrilled to launch Four Winns into a new era of design with a completely revamped bowrider lineup. The H-Series represents a whole new chapter in the Four Winns story. Welcome to the next horizon.
WWW.FOURWINNS.COM/NEX THORIZON
THE FINER SIDE OF LIFE
DOCK BOX
Lake Lens This was taken on our trip from Bay City, Michigan, to Lake Superior, just after we went through the Canadian Soo Locks. —James Bujouves
Calling All Canine (and Feline) Crew!
We want to learn about your furry friends onboard! Send a short write-up with your pet’s name and your home city, as well as a highresolution photo (at least 1 MB) to: KBUSH@LAKELANDBOATING.COM. Please put “Canine/Feline Crew” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!
JANUARY 2022 | VOLUME LXXVI, NO. 1 PUBLISHER Linda O’Meara PUBLISHER IN MEMORIUM Walter “Bing” O’Meara EDITORIAL STAFF Editorial Director: Kate Bush Assistant Editor: Abby Thorpe CREATIVE STAFF Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs CONTRIBUTORS Helen Aitken, Kristine Hansen, Glenn Hayes, Kevin Koenig, Capt. Frank Lanier, Charles Plueddeman, Kim Racette, Heather Steinberger, Chuck Warren, John Wooldridge BUSINESS STAFF National Sales: Mark Conway Regional Sales: Patti McCleery Accounting: Marguerite Wristen EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 / Fax: 312-276-0619 INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COM LAKELANDBOATING.COM
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 x. 24 / Fax: 312-276-0619 CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM
SUBSCRIPTIONS Lakeland Boating P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-504-8475 O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC Vice President: Linda O’Meara Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh
Everyone Looks Great in a Lakeland Boating Hat! Need a gift for your favorite boater? Our Lakeland Boating hat is constructed from soft cotton twill for a great fit. Leather band adjustment in back with antiqued brass closure. Available in weathered navy, Nantucket red and khaki. One size. $24.95 + S&H. To order, visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/STORE.
Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2022, by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’MearaBrown Publications, Inc. • Business/Accounting and Editorial Offices: 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201, 312-276-0610. • Call 847-5048475 to subscribe. Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 (U.S.). Annual subscription rates: United States: $24.95 per year; International and Canadian: $39.95 per year, includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. 894095074-RT 0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $4.99 for U.S. and Canada. Only U.S. funds are accepted. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices. • POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069. • Lakeland Boating is a registered trademark of O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., Evanston, IL. Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. • Unsolicited work may be submitted at the creator’s own risk. Lakeland Boating assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited material. All submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage. All published photos are courtesy of the manufacturer, unless otherwise noted.
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!
E-mail us at KBUSH@LAKELANDBOATING.COM or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 1555 Sherman Ave., Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201. Opinions expressed in “Dock Box” are not necessarily those of Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
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PRINTED IN THE U.S.A
Protect your baby (and their toys) with coverage for fishing gear and personal property too. 1- 8 0 0 -PROG RE S S IVE / PROG RE S S IVE .COM
Progressive Casualty Insurance Co. & affiliates. Additional charge may apply. Prices vary based on how you buy.
Shhhhh. No wake zone.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
New Year’s Day Parade Egg Harbor, WI
EGGHARBORDOORCOUNTY.ORG
Polar Bear Plunge Milwaukee, WI
POLARPLUNGEMILWAUKEE.COM
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Progressive Cleveland Boat Show 2 Cleveland, OH CLEVELANDBOATSHOW.COM
JAN 14 – 16, 19 – 23
JAN 6 – 9
CINCINNATIBOATSHOW.COM
Cincinnati Boat, Sport & Travel Show Cincinnati, OH
Ultimate Fishing Show Detroit Novi, MI
JAN 20 – 23
JAN 7 – 9
SHOWSPAN.COM/GRV
SHOWSPAN.COM/UFD
SISU Ski Fest 1 Ironwood, MI
SISUSKIFEST.COM
Visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/ GREAT-LAKES-EVENTS to add your event to our Calendar of Events page!
JAN 13 – 17
Polar Bear Swim Jacksonport, WI
JACKSONPORTPOLAR BEARCLUB.COM
ADD YOUR EVENT!
DOUBLE-CHECK BEFORE YOU GO! Events are likely to change. Please watch event websites for updates.
JAN 7 – 16
Camper, Travel & RV Show Grand Rapids, MI Progressive Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show Minneapolis, MN
MINNEAPOLISBOATSHOW.COM
1 JAN 21 – 30
Toronto International Boat Show Toronto, ON TORONTOBOATSHOW.COM
JAN 27 – 30
Green Bay RV & Camping Expo Green Bay, WI RESCHCOMPLEX.COM
JAN 28 – 29
Lake Superior Ice Festival Superior, WI
LAKESUPERIORICEFESTIVAL.COM
Ohio RV and Boat Show Columbus, OH
JAN 21 – 22
JAN 29
JAN 9
NOQUEMANON.COM
PURELUDINGTON.COM
OHIORVANDBOATSHOW.COM
Sleigh & Cutter Rally Ashland, WI
TRAVELWISCONSIN.COM
Noquemanon Ski Marathon Marquette, MI
JAN 21 – 23 & 26 – 30 Milwaukee Boat Show West Allis, WI
Pure Ludington Brrrewfest Ludington, MI St. Joe Winter Beer Fest St. Joseph, MI STJOETODAY.COM
SHOWSPAN.COM/MBS
Gulf Harbour Marina
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway in South Ft. Myers Florida
Gulf Harbour Marina is the “Destination of Choice” for many Midwest boaters! This 186-slip yacht basin has docks from 38' to 97'. Cruise the protected waterways to the islands of Sanibel, Captiva and Boca Grande. Experience the marinas, resorts, restaurants, bays and beaches or cruise the Gulf of Mexico to Ft. Myers Beach, Naples or the Florida Keys.
Gulf Harbour Properties LLC • Marina Boat Slips for Sale: 38', 48', 50', 60', 70' and T-Docks • Over 20 neighborhoods homes & condos available at $150,000 to over $5 million • Equity Country Club memberships available: 18 hole championship golf course, tennis complex, Spa-Fitness Center, Waterside Grille and Johnny Brown’s waterfront restaurants • Only 5 miles to Beach Islands and 30 minutes to International Airport
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Call Us... We are former Midwest GREG & JO CALLAWAY residents and Great Lakes cruisers who have lived in Gulf Harbour for over 23 years, and own a slip for our boat.
GulfHarbourProperties.com
239-851-8783 • Greg@GulfHarbour Properties.com
P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F 1 . S I S U S K I F E S T; 2 . C L E V E L A N D B OAT S H O W
JAN 1
Introducing Sorrento 7.50
Introducing Fratelli Aprea Sorrento 1890 USA. Handbuilt by generations of master craftsmen in the heart of the Mediterranean. Create your own private Italian island for delivery in North America.
P.O. Box B Boyne City, MI 49712 +1.313.908.3818 www.FratelliApreaUSA.com
• 7.50 Open Cruise Sport/ Semi-Cabinato • 7.80 Traditional Gozzo • 32’ Open Cruise Sport Semi-Cabinato/Cabinato/Hard Top • 36’ Open Cruise Sport Semi-Cabinato/Cabinato/Hard Top • 50’ Lusso
EVENTS
NMMA Postpones 2022 Chicago Boat Show, Four Others The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) has postponed five boat shows, including the Chicago Boat Show, to 2023. The postponements are the result of “supply chain disruptions to historically low market-specific boat inventory,” according to an NMMA statement. The Chicago show was planned to take place on January 12-16, 2022, but will now take place in 2023. “Unprecedented market conditions are forcing event producers around the world to be more nimble than ever, all while providing an opportunity to connect with attendees in new, more relevant ways and NMMA is no exception,” says NMMA President Frank Hugelmeyer. For more information, visit NMMA.ORG.
G R EAT L A K ES N E WS
BOAT S
M U ST-HAV E
BUZZ
EV ENTS
BUSINESS
BUZZ
Lakeland Boating’s very own contributing writer Damaine Vonada won 1st place in the Midwest Travel Journalists Association’s 2021 Mark Twain Awards for her Port of Call article on Port Clinton, Ohio, titled “Northern Exposure.’’ Find it in our May 2020 issue (p. 46).
ADD YOUR NEWS! Email KBUSH@
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
to add your company’s Great Lakes News to Scuttle!
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North America’s First All-Electric Car Ferries to Service Lake Ontario Two islands in Lake Ontario, Amherst and Wolfe islands, will both have brand-new fully electric car ferries in service for next season, the first of their kind to sail in North America. Built by the Romanian shipyard Damen Shipyards Galati, the Amherst Islander II and Wolfe Islander IV will begin service in Spring 2022 on Wolfe Island, near Kingston, Ontario, and the entrance of the St. Lawrence River, and on Amherst Island, just west of Wolfe Island. The open-deck ships are zero-emission and are equipped to be fully electric, but also have a twin diesel generator installed to allow hybrid and full diesel propulsion for maximum redundancy. The ferry docks will also be rebuilt to accommodate the charging systems for the electric vessels. The new ferries will offer extra capacity for passengers and will make the crossings faster and greener. “This integrated project is the first of its kind and one that we hope will demonstrate that fully electric ferries of this size are a viable proposition,” says Leo Postma, Damen sales director. For more information, visit DAMEN.COM. BUSINESS
Seakeeper Purchases New Facility Seakeeper, the leader in marine stabilization, has purchased a new, larger facility in Leesport, Pennsylvania, to support its rapid growth. The 25.4-acre property will house Seakeeper’s core manufacturing and engineering operations, and a 249,504-square-foot facility is already on site. The new facility will greatly increase Seakeeper’s efficiency and production capacity. The purchase, closed on November 5, comes after a search for the right facility that would allow the company to retain its current workforce of more than 150 staff members based in the Pennsylvania headquarters. “The purchase of this building is good news for a lot of us,” says Seakeeper President & CEO Andrew Semprevivo. “It’s good for our growing team and it’s one of many indicators of the success of our product and the health of the marine industry.” For more information, visit SEAKEEPER.COM.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
PHOTO COURTESY OF AUTOREVEOLUTION
SCUTTLE
BUZZ
Victor Porter, Chairman Emeritus of Formula Boats, Passes Away at Age 90
Victor (Vic) Porter, who spent over 60 years in the boating industry and helped launch Formula Boats into worldwide success, passed away on October 24, 2021. Porter founded two boat companies, Duo, Inc. in 1958 and Signa Corp. in 1970. In 1973, Fuqua Industries — owner of Thunderbird and Formula Boats — purchased Signa Corp. Porter was named chairman of the small boat group and later purchased it from Fuqua Industries. Porter continued the company as Thunderbird Products, manufacturing the Signa and Formula boat lines. From facility additions to the development of new boat lines, Porter led the company with imagination and integrity into a model business manufacturing today’s prestigious Formula Boats. Porter was active in the Boating Industry Association and NMMA, and was inducted into the NMMA Hall of Fame in 2016. Porter is survived by his wife of 71 years, Kristine, and his six children (five of whom are actively involved at Formula), 17 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. MUST-HAVE
Kanvaslight Illuminating Fabric There’s a new way to illuminate your boat: With your marine fabric! The brand-new product by Guardtex called Kanvaslight, which recently won an IBEX Innovation Award, features a patented flexible, thin light that’s integrated into the canvas. The fabric is packable, rollable and waterproof, so you can treat it just like your normal Bimini canvas. The fabric produces perfectly diffused light for entertaining underneath. It can be used in multiple applications, including Biminis, decor and sunshades. Kanvaslight is available in several sizes, and can also be customized to suit your dimensions. Guardtex works with Sunbrella, Surelast and other fabrics to offer a large choice of colors. For more information, visit K ANVASLIGHT.COM.
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF INFORMA
SCUTTLE
TAG
Caslon Head
EVENTS
2021 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Recap
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The 62nd annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show kicked off on October 27 and was back to full capacity, featuring about 700 boats on display over several venues. Lakeland Boating walked the docks to see all the new boat debuts. Here are a few highlights from the show. ■ Absolute had two American debuts: The 48 Coupé, the first of the new sports range with a large terrace cockpit, and 60 FLY, a versatile and spacious yacht. ■ Aquila had two power cats making their boat show debut: The Aquila 36 Sport and the flagship Aquila 70 Luxury Power Catamaran. ■ Azimut’s Verve 42 made its world premiere as an outboard-powered boat with a layout featuring generous, comfortable spaces for relaxation and socializing.
Beneteau
■ The Beneteau Grand Trawler 62, which made its world debut, is designed to let you travel uninterrupted for days on end in pure luxury. ■ Blackfin had its new 232DC on display at the Convention Center, featuring a crossover design that allows for everything from offshore fishing excursions to cruising the Great Lakes. ■ Cutwater’s new C-288 Coupe is all about versatility. Transform the cockpit with the “sunset seat,” fold-down gunwale seats and an opening glass bulkhead lounge.
Blackfin
TAG
■ The all-new Chris-Craft Catalina 24 debuted at FLIBS, featuring a center console design, the classic Chris-Craft tumblehome Gotham transom and Head Deep-V hull with Carolina Flare Bow.
Cutwater
Body Texrt Body Texrt
■ Cruisers 34 GLS made its FLIBS debut. This 34-footer features clean lines, Body Texrt Body Texrt a roomy floorplan and a couple of Mercury 300s.
Body Texrt Body Texrt
■ Hinckley’s new 35 boasts speeds up to 48 mph and features a brand-new Hinckley Body Texrt Body Texrt innovation, the ClearView single-pane windshield.
Body Texrt Body Texrt
Four Winns
■ Four Winns had its brand-new H2 and H4 bowrider modelsBody on display the Texrt Texrt atBody Convention center. Read more about the H4 in our Boat Test on p. 28.
Riviera
Body Texrt Body Texrt Body
■ Maritimo had two American debuts: The M55 and S55. These two models both boast Texrt Body Texrt Body Texrt an LOA of 56 feet, 8 inches, but the S55 is an offshore adventuring Sedan and the M55 is a Body long-range cruising Flybridge. Maritimo also revealed its plans forBody a newTexrt S60, Body whichTexrt will debut in mid-2022. Texrt Body Texrt Body Texrt
Body Texrt Body Texrt ■ Regal’s new LX36 and 38 FXO made their world debuts. The LX36 is a day yacht withBody a retractable hardtop and windshield walk-through. The 38 FXO Texrt is an outboard-powered Body Texrt Body Texrt flybridge yacht with an open-air cockpit and salon. Body Texrt Body Texrt Body ■ The Riviera 645 SUV, which made its America’s premier, isTexrt the largest Riviera’s Bodymodel Texrt inBody Texrt SUV collection, offering three or four stateroom accommodations. Body Texrt Body Texrt Body
Viking
■ Solace partnered with Volvo Penta on the brand-new 415CS, which is powered Texrt Body Texrt by Volvo Penta’s innovative twin inboard Aquamatic. ■ Sunseeker had two U.S. debuts: The Manhattan 55 and 65 Sport Yacht. ■ Viking Yachts showed off its brand-new 64 Convertible, as well as unveiled plans for the Viking 90, which will make its debut at the 2023 Miami Yacht Show. ■ Walker Bay’s REVO 21, a 21-foot luxury sport RIB, has a 12 passenger capacity and even features a console that houses a portable head or changing area. ■ Zeelander revealed its new model, the Zeelander 5, which will launch in 2022 and will offer completely customizable finishes.
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Regal
Solace
The World Awaits As we turn the calendar to a new year, we look forward to new opportunities and a renewed optimism for the future. Now is the time to break free, set sail, and enjoy the world in all her splendor once again.
Your next yacht charter escape awaits. MOORINGS.COM/LAKELAND | 800 669 6529
SCUTTLE
EVENTS
MUST-HAVE
Manta Racks Onboard Freedom Fighters Boat
Captain Vinnie LaSorsa always wanted to find a way to give back to the service men and women. With the help of his wife, Sarah, his boss, Jimmy Buffett, and Manta Racks, Captain Vinnie is doing just that with his nonprofit organization, Freedom Fighters Outdoors (FFO). Back in 2009, Jimmy Buffett offered his boat so Captain Vinnie could take a small group of veterans fishing in South Florida. That memorable day inspired Captain Vinnie to start FFO, and he now takes veterans fishing and hunting at no charge to them on Mr. Buffett’s 42’ Custom Merritt/Freeman Cat, the Last Mango.. The goal is to provide an all-expense paid trip where previous trip veterans show the ropes to the first timers, to ease their nerves, to support their needs and emotions. But when some of the veterans and Mr. Buffett wanted to take paddleboards and surfboards along on the adventures, Captain Vinnie and Mr. Buffett needed a way to transport the boards while underway. Thanks to the Manta Rack L2K Rack System, they were able to transport multiple boards during their adventures. “Our L2K Rack System which Captain Vinnie uses to transport not only Jimmy’s Paddleboard but also his many surfboards,” says Manta Racks’ Tim Wilhelm. “Our L2K is designed to transport kayaks and other boards, like the LIVE Watersports L2 & L4 catamaran paddleboard. Just like all of our rack mounts, they rotate and lock every 22½ degrees to accommodate rod holders that are installed at an angle. This keeps the rack systems and boards parallel to the gunnel of the boat.” For more info on the organization, visit FREEDOMFIGHTEROUTDOORS.ORG. For more info on Manta Racks, visit MANTARACKS.COM.
Walker Bay Boats is discontinuing the production of the following products effective immediately: Genesis, Superlights, Walker Bay 8, Walker Bay 10, and Sailkits. Walker Bay will continue to have replacement parts for these products available for the next five years.
BOATS
Sunseeker Introduces New Superhawk 55
Meet Sunseeker’s brand-new, ultimate open-top dayboat, the Superhawk 55. Powered by Volvo D11 IPS - 950 engines that achieve a top speed of 38 knots, the new model features a sleek design, exquisite detailing and exciting innovations. Onboard, the foredeck provides plenty of seating with a full-length sunpad, while the aft cockpit is designed with a central large wetbar featuring concealed appliances and a TV. Other features include a double curved windscreen with a stainless cap above for completely uninterrupted views, as well as an open plan lobby and galley area. Accommodations below include a forward VIP cabin with ensuite, upholstered side units and a wardrobe unit to port. Aft is the owner’s cabin with scissor berths and generous ensuite. To learn more, visit SUNSEEKER.COM.
Great Lakes Cruising Club School Announces 2022 Class Schedule Looking for something to do while your boat is tucked away for winter? Furthering your boating education is the perfect way to fill the hours and advance your skills and knowledge before your spring launch, and the Great Lakes Cruising Club School makes it simple and affordable to join single or multiple webinars. GLCCSchool is kicking off the new year with a “Cruising Lake Huron” webinar. You can browse the website ahead of time to see upcoming webinars, and setting up an account is free and easy. Most webinars cost around $20 (members of the Great Lakes Cruising Club and the U.S. and Canadian Power Squadrons receive a $5 discount) and every webinar is recorded so you can rewatch it at any time. Now in its 12th school year, the GLCCSchool is a premier source for practical training for sail and power cruisers. The non-profit, memberdriven organization is committed to furthering learning, education and exploration of the Great Lakes and boating. Classes planned for 2022 include Cruising guides for: Lake Erie; Lake Michigan; Lake Huron; Lake Superior; Lake Ontario’s Bay of Quinte and St. Lawrence River’s 1,000 Islands; the North Channel; Northern Georgian Bay; the Georgian Bay’s 30,000 Islands Region; the Trent Severn Waterway; and America’s Great Loop Cruise. Skills classes include: Becoming a Weather Savvy Mariner; Marine Diesel Maintenance; Fiberglass Repair; Navigating Locks; and so much more! To learn more, visit GLCCSCHOOL.COM.
Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales is the exclusive Sunseeker dealership for the Great Lakes. For more information, visit JBYS.COM.
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SCUTTLE
MUST-HAVE
Adams
Tadsen
Walstrom, Jr.
BUZZ
MBIA Announces 2021 Hall of Fame, Ray L. Underwood Award
Jim Adams of Freeway Sports Center in Fenton, Michigan, and Tim Tadsen of Toledo Beach Marina in LaSalle, Michigan, will be inducted into the Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA) Hall of Fame for 2021. MBIA also awarded Ward Walstrom, Jr. of Walstrom Marine with the Ray L. Underwood Lifetime Achievement Award, for his outstanding contributions to recreational boating through leadership, dedication and innovation. Walstrom started working in the boating industry at a very young age with his brother, under the guidance of his father, a MBIA Hall of Fame recipient. He has led Walstrom Marine (multiple locations) to great success, and his marinas to premier marina destinations in the state. Walstrom has volunteered and served for six years as a Michigan State Waterways Commissioner and led the state in the development and maintenance of its 1,200 boating access sites and 80-plus state marinas. He is a board member on the Michigan Clean Marina Program Board. In 2005, he led Walstrom Marine in becoming one of the first Michigan Clean Marinas. For more information, visit MBIA.ORG.
Raymarine’s Newest Cyclone Range of Open-Array Radars Raymarine’s latest Cyclone open-array radars are designed to bring innovation and state-of-the-art technology and design to help boaters tackle the harshest conditions, navigate busy waterways and find their perfect catch. Cyclone models include six high-power solid-state options, with two available in 3-, 4- and 6-foot arrays, and two high-power output options for each size. The cutting-edge, aircraft-wing-inspired design and next-generation innovation offers extreme capability to users. The Cyclone is the lightest open-array radar available, and its low profile allows for greater flexibility and adaptability when installing. Engineered to withstand extremes, Cyclone models have a wind rating of over 100 knots, feature 60 RPM rotational speed and offer 360 degrees of awareness, with accurate tracking of up to 100 distinct ARPA targets in real time. RangeFusion technology offers maximum visibility of near and far targets with one radar image that’s easy to interpret. When it’s time for that big catch, Cylone’s Bird Mode can identify distant flocks of seabirds to help you target baitfish schools and the larger predators nearby. All Cyclone models integrate seamlessly with Raymarine Axiom, Axiom+, Axiom Pro, and Axiom XL chartplotter multifunction displays. Retail prices range from $6,999.99 to $9,749.99. To learn more, visit R AYMARINE.COM.
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Mystery Tackle Box
Mystery Tackle Box is the original monthly lure subscription service. Each box allows anglers to discover new lures, tackle and exclusive limited-edition fishing gear, all while learning new fishing techniques. Select packages geared specifically toward the species you typically fish, including bass, panfish, trout and walleye. There’s even a seasonal ice fishing option. Available in 1, 3-, 6- and 12-month plans. STARTING AT $19.99/MONTH AT MYSTERYTACKLEBOX.COM
GREAT GEAR MUST-HAVE GOODIES AND GADGETS FOR EVERY BOATER
Accon Marine Bimini Release
As outdoor fabrics shrink or stretch, Biminis and sunshades can be difficult to deploy. With the new 415-TB Bimini Release from Accon Marine, the top straps become adjustable for a perfectly snug fit. And when it’s time to stow the device, they pop out of the base with the slide of a button. Installs quickly and easy to use. $50.15 (FOR SET) AT ACCONMARINE.COM
Bombora Wanderer PFD
The Bombora Wanderer may be the most comfortable U.S. Coast Guard-approved Class V PFD ever designed for power, sail and paddle sports. And with six new colors and patterns to choose from, it’s likely the most stylish. The PFD is worn around the waist, and when needed, a pull activation cord inflates the device with 16.5 pounds of buoyancy. Made for adults 16 and older. $110 AT BOMBOR AGEAR.COM
Tupelo Tote
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Spacious, waterproof and lightweight — what else could you ever need from a beach tote? The Tupelo Tote comes in several bright colors, and the lightweight EVA foam is easy to clean. Carry with the comfy straps and load up for a day on the water, thanks to the generous interior. Hinges on the handles allow them to fold down. Measures 19 by 11 by 15 inches. $148 AT TUPELOGOODS.COM
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West Marine Clear Dry Bag
Keep your valuable belongings protected onboard with this PVC-free dry bag. The bag is made from BPA-free thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). It’s durable and water resistant, as well as abrasion and puncture resistant, and will flex in cold weather while other PVC bags tend to crack. 17.99 – 24.99 AT WESTMARINE.COM
Star brite Mildew Stain Remover
In the event that your boat gets a bit musty while in winter storage, Star brite’s Mildew Stain Remover has you covered. Simply spray the solution on any mildew areas and, like magic, it removes stains on contact. Use on vinyl covers, headliners, cushions, etc. Comes in a 22-ounce spray bottle. $9.99 AT DEFENDER.COM
DON’T HESITATE TO RENOVATE B Y C A P T. F R A N K L A N I E R
Top Three Tasks
Three tasks every boat owner should know how to handle. he key to successfully overcoming impromptu lessons on how your boat systems work is having a plan in place before problems occur. Here’s a look at three things all boat owners should be able to do.
(Top) Lubed impeller installation. (Bottom) Raw water intake and strainer
CAPT. FRANK LANIER is an award-winning journalist, boat maintenance guru and owner of Capt F.K. Lanier & Associates, Marine Surveyors and Consultants: CAPTFKLANIER.COM.
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Situation 1: Replace an alternator belt While that squeal coming from your engine compartment may sound like a scene from “Deliverance,” it’s likely your boat’s way of saying the alternator belt needs replacing. When installing a new belt, start by studying the old belt’s routing if intact and still in place. Simplify things even more by taking a few pics for reference prior to removal. If the old belt has self-destructed, verify routing of the new belt by consulting the engine manual or illustration sticker provided on some engines. Removal of an existing belt or replacing a broken one will typically involve loosening some component (such as the alternator), then re-tensioning and tightening it after the new belt is in place. Once installed, use your thumb to apply moderate pressure halfway between pulleys. The new belt should deflect around ⅜ inch depending on the length between pulleys. Be sure to follow your engine manual for specific guidelines. Situation 2: Deal with a clogged head The inability to pump a toilet bowl clear almost always involves a blockage. We’ll assume the toilet is a manual, raw-water flush unit that is discharging into a holding tank. First, make sure that the holding tank is not full and that the holding tank vent hose is clear. If these are confirmed, yet the toilet handle is difficult to press down and you cannot empty the bowl, chances are you have a blockage in the discharge hose. Start by trying to blast the clog free using a household plunger. Just keep in mind it will only work in one direction (i.e. the down stroke) due to the one-way valve or flapper installed at the toilet discharge. If the plunger method fails, rubber gloves, a stout length of wire (a “fish tape” or untwisted coat hanger) and a 5-gallon bucket are the weapons of choice. Start by disconnecting the hose at the toilet discharge outlet and running the wire down the hose. If you’re lucky, the clog will be found and you can break it free. Otherwise, it’ll be trench
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warfare as you disconnect each successive hose section until the blockage is located and removed. Situation 3: Change an engine raw water pump impeller While you will want to follow the instructions provided in your engine owner’s manual, here are the basic steps for replacing an impeller. 1. Close the engine raw water seacock. 2. Place a shallow pan or spread an old towel beneath the pump. 3. Remove the screws that hold the pump’s cover plate. 4. Carefully remove the cover plate to expose the impeller. 5. Remove the sealing O-ring or paper gasket (depending on the pump make and model). 6. If the impeller has a rubber plug in the center, pry it out with a small screwdriver to see how the impeller is attached to the shaft. Most just slide on, although some may use a through-bolt or set screw, which will have to be released prior to impeller removal. 7. To remove the impeller, grasp two impeller vanes on opposite sides and wiggle it out. If that doesn’t work, try removing itW using two flathead screwdrivers placed on opposite sides, being extremely careful not to damage the flat face of the pump housing. A pair of plastic impeller removal tools is also a good investment. Another option is using Channellock pliers. 8. Grease the vanes of the new impeller and the wall of the pump chamber. Most impeller kits will include a small tube of lube, but petroleum jelly will also work. 9. Slide the impeller onto the shaft. Folding the vanes while inserting it with a slight twisting motion may make this easier. Installing the vanes in the proper direction is best, however they’ll arrange themselves with the first revolution of the impeller regardless. 10. Push the impeller firmly into place, then (if present) tighten the set screw or reinstall the through-bolt or hub plug. 11. Install a new gasket or O-ring (old ones can be used in a pinch if in good condition) and screw the pump cover back into place. 12. Open the seacock, then start the engine and check the exhaust for proper water flow. Check the pump and verify no leaks are present. ★
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Spread the joy of boating this holiday season Lakeland Boating is the perfect gift for your favorite boater! Call 800-827-0289 or visit lakelandboating.com to order a gift subscription TODAY!
ELECTRONICS BY GLENN HAYES
Tech Trends
Marine electronics are seeing some new trends in 2022 ith record boat sales and many newcomers to the boating world in 2021, demand was high and supply was limited. It looks as if 2022 will be another challenging year with supply chain issues. However, there are still new products emerging that are following some interesting trends and are moving the marine world into the future.
(Top) An all glass bridge. (Middle) Dometic’s digital switching on Garmin and Navico MFDs. (Bottom) Controlling an Icom M510 through a smartphone.
GLENN HAYES is a marine writer and photographer whose background in the marine industry and in marine electronics spans almost three decades and many thousands of miles at sea traveling the world. He can be reached at HAYESSTUDIOS.COM .
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Networking and communication During a recent walk through the electronics pavilion at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, I spoke with various manufacturers and it became clear that the trends in play include the terms “networking” and “communication.” With more sophisticated systems onboard and a desire to control and understand those systems, the need for them to work together and be controlled in a simple and efficient manner has forced manufacturers to share information, through creating a usable single interface. We are now seeing manufacturers such as Navico working with outside company’s open sourcing, using external software to allow systems to be controlled through its multifunction displays (MFDs). LED lighting manufacturers, such as ShadowCaster, have created black box interfaces that allow for full control of its lighting through a Simrad MFD. Engine manufacturers such as Mercury, Yamaha and Suzuki can now display full engine data through various brands of MFD displays, with some even replacing dedicated standard digital or analog gauges. Some of these displays not only allow for standard engine gauge information but can also connect to the internet and send technical information to a factory technician. Digital switching is also another trend that is finding its way into more and more multifunction displays. Raymarine, for example, now has a modular OEM digital switching system that allows for custom switching through its displays with graphics and on-screen touch icons for items such as navigation lights, bilge pumps, climate control and more. Many of these systems still allow for manual switching but those panels of switches can be hidden away; a clean “all glass helm” can be accomplished with a single or multiple glass-paneled touchscreen MFDs. Dometic now has digital switching capability for its onboard
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Raymarine’s new Cyclone open array radar
equipment with an easy to use switching interface that works with various manufacturer’s MFDs. Through Ethernet and NMEA 2000 connections and new networking protocols, creating an integrated system that can be controlled through a touchscreen is now becoming easier than ever. Radar Radar is another piece of marine equipment that has seen some drastic technological changes recently. Raymarine just introduced its new line of Cyclone open array radars that take advantage of CHIRP pulse compression and beam sharpening to give optimal resolution and imagery. The science behind this technology is complicated, but the result is incredible radar performance that can operate efficiently and clearly at any speed. These new open arrays are lightweight with instant power up, fast rotation and unprecedented tracking capabilities. They can now track up to 100 ARPA targets in real time. This newly adopted technology, combined with improved software, can allow for easy bird identification (a huge benefit to anglers), as well as clear detection both near the vessel and miles away. They even look new and edgy with a super low profile and a sleek array that looks more like a plane wing than an array. VHF radios Even VHF radios are advancing. A good example of where things are heading not only with VHFs but electronics in general is the ICOM M510. This capable VHF can not only connect to your onboard systems via NMEA 2000 with plug and play simplicity, but it can also communicate and operate through your smart device. There is also a CT-M500 module that allows wireless NMEA 2000 connectivity. Utilizing ICOM’s app, the user can operate and control the VHF from up to three iOS or Android smart devices. The smart device essentially becomes a full-functioning remote command mic for the VHF. Look for more electronics to link up wirelessly and be remotely operated through smart devices in the new age of electronics. ★
PHOTOS ON LEFT BY MARIA HAYES; RAYMARINE PHOTO BY RAYMARINE
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SAFETY FIRST BY HELEN AITKEN
Insurance Unknowns What you don’t know can cost you.
TOP PHOTO BY MIGUELB; MIDDLE BY SUE THOMPSON; BOTTOM BY MAXI AM BRUNNEN
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n 2020, 3,972,779 boats were registered in the Great Lakes region, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association — that’s a lot of boats needing insurance. Most people insure their boats just in case a problem arises, but being under-insured is a serious problem. A homeowner’s policy covers very little. Purchasing additional insurance through a professional agent or underwriter considers things like Coast Guard standards at build date, if the vessel is used for pleasure or residence, ownership and more. Unfortunately, policy exclusions and fine print can be as murky as the bottom of Lake Superior, and coverage varies by company so do your research. To help explain boating insurance, I spoke with Rick Stern, boat product manager of Progressive Insurance, and John Mauthe, marine business manager of Frankenmuth Insurance. 1. Is a General Liability policy enough? Stern: “It depends. This generally covers injuries that are caused to other people or their property, or may cover things like wreckage removal and fuel spill mitigation…but it doesn’t cover damage to your own watercraft.” 2. What should I know about insurance? Stern: “Many boat insurance policies are ‘all peril’ policies, meaning that anything not specifically excluded in your policy is covered.” Mauthe: “Your insurance policy is not a maintenance policy. You need to upkeep your boat just like you take care of your home or auto. Also know the valuation settlement provision of the policy. If you have a loss, will the settlement of your boat be based on “Agreed Value,” “Replacement Cost,” or “Actual Cash Value”? Knowing this information can help reduce the stress.” 3. What things influence the cost of a special policy? Mauthe: “Boat (hull) value, coverage limits, age, navigational territory, insurance score, deductible, loss history, safety equipment and engine type (gas/diesel).” Stern: “Other factors, as well as the age, experience and driving record of the operators play a part.” 4. Does crossing state lines or into Canadian waters matter?
Mauthe: “This would depend on the type of policy that the boat is covered on (yacht, watercraft, or homeowners). Work with your agent before trailering your boat or setting out on an adventure such as the Great Loop.” Stern: “You might need underwriter approval (for coverage) outside of those areas. At Progressive, you are covered on all lakes and rivers in the U.S. and Canada, as well as up to 75 miles offshore.” 5. What about trailering? Mauthe: “Liability would be with the vehicle that is pulling the trailer.” Stern: “The added boat insurance will cover damage to the boat and/or trailer.” 6. Is towing insurance necessary? Stern: “With Progressive’s Sign & Glide on-water towing coverage, call our dispatch center (or use the Sign & Glide app). We’ll dispatch a tow vessel to your location and cover the cost of the tow (within policy limits) for $30 a year.” 7. What about fuel spills? Stern: “Fuel spills are generally covered under the liability/property damage portion of the policy. Coverage limits vary by insurer, but this coverage is not mandatory under federal law.” 8. What if the boat sinks or needs salvage removal? Mauthe: “Many homeowners carriers will provide a small limit (a few thousand dollars) for this coverage.” Stern: “A specialized policy is your best protection. Progressive offers up to $500,000 of coverage for wreckage removal.” 9. About half of all parts failures and sinkings occur at the dock — am I protected? Mauthe: Perhaps, he says. “Know your boat and understand the areas that can cause water to enter your boat. Inspect these areas (through-hulls, hoses, bilge pumps and running gear). Adhere to preventative maintenance program to inspect and replace items that show signs of wear.” Stern: “Proper maintenance can prevent many of [these failures]. A good insurance policy is important because you can’t prevent everything.” ★
HELEN AITKEN is a boating writer, photographer and former science educator from eastern North Carolina. She loves classic wooden boats, is an America’s Boating Club member and plays in the Intracoastal Waterway.
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BENEATH THE SURFACE B Y H E AT H E R S T E I N B E R G E R
The Water is Waiting
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Mooring and Sunsail offer charters in exciting destinations like the Caribbean and Tahiti.
little over a year ago, we published a column in this space titled, “The Perfect Vacation.” As the world reeled from the onslaught of COVID-19, boaters sought to spend time on the water in increasing numbers, and we wanted to explore how they could still enjoy chartering with all its possibilities and freedom. Through our conversations with Ian Pedersen from the Moorings and Sunsail, and Barbara Hansen from Southwest Florida Yachts, we learned that charter companies adapted quickly and found innovative solutions to manage public health concerns. We also learned that some charter destinations were booming. With our second full winter of pandemic life upon us, we decided to reach out to Pedersen and Hansen again. We wanted to know how the charter life is faring in boaters’ most beloved destinations, and what 2022 might bring. Venturing across borders The North American market’s most popular international destinations are in the Caribbean, and at press time, nearly all of those countries are open to visitors with limited COVID restrictions. These include the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, the Abacos and the Exumas in the Bahamas, Belize, St. Martin and St. Lucia. According to Ian Pedersen, senior marketing manager for the Moorings and Sunsail, boaters looking even farther afield can visit Tahiti, and the industry expects Americans to have access to Mediterranean destinations like Italy, Greece and Croatia when their season opens in May.
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“It seems that Americans as a whole have embraced the new normal,” Pedersen says. “Overall, there is a clear sense of optimism.” For Pedersen’s part, he also is looking onward and upward. In 2020, operations focused primarily on rescheduling charters that customers had to cancel or delay due to COVID restrictions, and uncertainty contributed to very little new business coming in. In 2021, that trend completely reversed. “Travel restrictions have loosened in key charter destinations, which has made it easier for fully vaccinated travelers to enjoy a stress-free charter experience,” he says. “Many are enjoying their first trips abroad in over a year.” Although 2022 might feel like before-times in some ways, the new normal is most evident in the sheer volume of bookings. Availability is already very slim. “If you can imagine, we had to reschedule almost an entire year’s worth of bookings, and many of those customers pushed their charters into 2022,” Pedersen explains. “That, combined with renewed interest as people arrange their first charter vacations since the pandemic, has resulted in low availability for many of our yachts much earlier than usual.” Prior to COVID-19, the Moorings and Sunsail experienced a lull in activity between the holiday season and spring break. Now, they are seeing strong occupancy straight through the spring and summer months across all destinations. Bottom line: If you seek to charter during this Great Lakes offseason, do your research and book as early as possible. Bear in mind that many destinations might only be accessible if you are fully vaccinated, but your charter company can help you navigate the latest regulations. Pedersen has some words of wisdom for those who hope to charter this coming year. First, try not to worry too much about your deposit and the pandemic’s unknowns. In the case of the Moorings and Sunsail, a “Book with Confidence” policy provides robust protections, allowing customers to reschedule their charters in the event they are disrupted. Next, remember patience — and responsibility. “Patience is key to enjoying a vacation abroad, [as is] taking personal responsibility
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MOORINGS
The charter business is booming in 2022, with no shortage of options for those seeking adventures near and far.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS
to ensure you and your party have followed all of the steps necessary to enjoy a stress-free vacation. Use us as a resource as you plan your next charter vacation. The Moorings and Sunsail have been hard at work compiling all of the information our guests need to know across all of our destinations, and have charter experts available to help,” Pedersen advises. “Now get out there and discover the world again!” Exploring a gem closer to home Unlike many international destinations, which remained off-limits to Americans for quite some time, Florida only experienced a brief shutdown early in the pandemic. After that, the charter business exploded, first with local boaters and then with out-of-staters who primarily hailed from the Southeast, Tennessee and Texas. According to Barbara Hansen, who started Southwest Florida Yachts in 1984 with her husband, Vic, a segment of the chartering population is not interested in flying overseas at this point. Instead, they seek adventures that are just a drive or short flight away. “By this time last year, we were 100% open in Florida,” Hansen says. “So we’ve been extremely busy this past year, with business up about 20%. Now we’re cranking up for January, February and March.” October through May is typically high season in southwest Florida. As winter locks in the north, more boaters from the Northeast, Midwest and Great Plains are venturing to Cape Coral, where Southwest Florida Yachts makes its home. “We’re seeing more people saying, ‘I’m going to live my life,’” Hansen observes. “We’re also seeing more people moving here permanently and they want to buy a boat. They’re eager to do things on their bucket list, like doing the Great Loop, going cruising, handling a larger yacht, or retiring and moving aboard.” Inventory in Florida, like everywhere, is depleted. Boats are hard to come by, and waiting lists for dockage extends to a year or longer. “This is the snowball effect,” Hansen says. “I tell people to do this the right way. Charter first and get some experience. You’ll have a great vacation, and you can see if this is something you really want to do in the future.” Southwest Florida Yachts offers a three-day charter option so first-timers don’t need to commit to a full week. It also operates the Florida Sailing and Cruising School, which provides both power and sail instruction. “This isn’t just a boat rental,” Hansen says. “You have to know what you’re doing. We’ll help assess your skill level and, if necessary, we’ll provide
a captain for a day or two. We also will work with you to build a float plan, and we can handle your marina and restaurant reservations as well.” Southwest Florida Yachts offers access to cruising grounds from Marco Island in the south to Venice in the north, with the average charter covering 30 to 50 miles. Favorite ports of call include Marco Island, Naples, Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel and Captiva islands, Cayo Costa, Cabbage Key, and Gasparilla and Useppa Islands. “You’re not lacking in places to go,” Hansen says with a chuckle. “Part of the charm here is visiting the different islands, and even if you’re anchoring out most of the time, we always recommend at least a couple of stops.” While she also recommends that boaters book their charters early for the 2022 season, the offseason can still offer some benefits for those hoping to avoid peak times. “July, August and September are a good window,” she says. “It’s less crowded and less expensive, and there’s a slower pace with the kids going back to school. Don’t let hurricane season dissuade you; there’s not a huge risk, we have enough notice to be on guard, and we work with people if they need to move dates.” As busy as charter companies are these days, Hansen observes that on-water vacations offer distinct advantages over that other popular recreational option that has taken off during the pandemic. “Unlike in the RV world, you don’t have to make reservations 12 or 13 months in advance,” she says. “You also won’t be parked with hundreds of other people. There is nothing better than being on a boat.” For more information, visit MOORINGS.COM, CRUISE.COM and SWFYACHTS.COM. ★
Southwest Florida Yachts allows boaters to cruise closer to home in the sunny state of Florida.
HEATHER STEINBERGER is an award-winning writer/editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 20 years.
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BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KEVIN KOENIG
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 37’7” Beam: 12’7” Draft: 34”/46” Weight: 19,300 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 507 gals. Water Capacity: 50 gals. Power: 3 x Yamaha XF425 engines MSRP: Contact dealer REGULATORMARINE.COM
DEALERS Catawba Moorings
CATAWBAMOORINGS.COM
Yacht Works Wisconsin YACHTWORKS.NET
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Regulator 37 Consistent excellence.
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egulator made its bones by turning out powerful, functional center consoles with a level of fit and finish that has made it a favorite of some of the yachting set’s most selective individuals. And the builder’s new 37 meets its high standards in spades. Interestingly, the boat actually has an inch more beam, at 12 feet, 7 inches, than her larger sister, the 41, despite being 4 feet shorter. The added stability is a boon in stormy weather. “She runs like a dream,” says Paul Ochs of Catawba Moorings. “I had her in some very rough seas on Lake Erie and she handled so well. You know she has a molded fiberglass stringer system, just like the old classics in the 1960s were built. You really have to experience the ride to understand it.” The Regulator comes with triple 425-hp Yamahas that have it absolutely pumping at a
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reported top hop of 60.2 mph. And with overbuilt everything, and a Seakeeper, she displaces a hefty 20,000 pounds — a weight that helps her to stay steady in the snot. Or, as Ochs put it so poetically, “there’s no replacement for displacement!” Another part of the 37’s appeal is that she can be cruised or fished with equal ease. “Regulator runs it right down the double yellow line,” Ochs says. “There’s a sunpad up front for the sunbathers but a huge cockpit for the anglers to get to work catching fish, or vice versa depending on who is doing the boating!” The magic in this boat is in its lineage. Every Regulator has the same naval architect, Lou Codega, so each boat builds off the previous models instead of needing to find a new method to make it work. “With Regulator,” Ochs says with pride, “you’re not getting the guy who bid the lowest on the design. You’re getting consistency.” ★
BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KEVIN KOENIG
Sabre 45 Salon Express The versatile one.
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ust because a style of boat has a specific New England region in its name, doesn’t mean it can’t be well suited to other areas. Just ask Sabre, purveyor of ever-popular Downeasters. The Maine-based company has long maintained a solid footprint in the northeast, and has also in recent years become a popular Florida vessel as boaters have fallen in love with its steady performance, high level of fit and finish, and entertainment-friendly layouts. And the hottest Sabre on the market is the 45 Salon Express, which falls right near the middle of a lineup ranging from a 38 to a 58. Mark Felhofer, president of Bay Marine, understands why the 45 is so popular. “The layout might be the most appealing thing about it,” he says. “It has two wonderful staterooms that work well for a family of four. Plus it’s got what I like to call a ‘mid-level galley,’ meaning the galley is two steps down from the salon, but two steps above the accommodations. It
lets the cook choose whether they want to be a part of the salon conversation or stay out of the way. It really opens up options for time spent onboard.” Felhofer also points to the boat’s high level of onboard comfort and attention to detail, with plush settees adorned with intricate stitching, tight joinery and an ergonomic sense throughout. “The way the cockpit flows into the salon is something that needs to be experienced,” he says. “Plus this boat is so quiet and smooth riding. I really cannot stress enough just how comfortable this boat is for couples and family cruising.” The enclosed pilothouse is another nice touch for cruising in the cooler climes of the Great Lakes region, though a side pilothouse door can be cracked for refreshing airflow — and it aids with docking and navigation as well. It’s true the Sabre 45 is a versatile boat that will be just as at home cruising Boothbay Harbor as she would off of Mackinac Island. ★
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 49’ Beam: 14′8″ Draft: 3’9” Weight: 34,700 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 450 gals. Water Capacity: 150 gals. Std. Power: 2 x 440 hp MSRP: Contact dealer SABREYACHTS.COM
DEALERS Bay Marine
BAYMARINE.NET
Down East Yachting
DOWNEASTYACHTING.COM
South Shore Marine
SOUTHSHOREMAINE.COM
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BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KEVIN KOENIG
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 70’ Beam: 19’4” Draft: 4’3” Weight: 103,617 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 1,387 gals. Water Capacity: 370 gals. Std. Power: 2 x Volvo D13 900 hp MSRP: Contact dealer SIRENAYACHTS.COM
DEALER Spring Brook Marina
SPRINGBROOKMARINA.COM
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Sirena 68 Sirena’s song.
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hough it’s a Turkish company, the name Sirena means mermaid in Italian, so it’s no surprise that this builder turns out beautiful yachts with a seductive quality that is undeniable to all who pass her by. The new Sirena 68 is no exception. She debuted at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2021 to much fanfare thanks to hull lines penned by the Argentinian German Frers and an exemplary interior put together by Dutchman Cor D. Rover. Since that show the builder says it has already sold 20 units as of late October. The 68’s exterior profile combines a certain European sleekness with the squared off and masculine lines of work boats and trawlers. The overwhelming effect is that this yacht can do it all, from entertaining to long-distance cruising — and that is by design. The Sirena’s hull is semi-displacement and was designed by Frers with efficiency and seakeeping
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as his foremost concerns. The yacht comes with either standard twin Volvo Penta D13 900s or with optional Volvo Penta D13 1000s. Maximum speed with the different engine packages is 26 and 28 knots respectively. Fast cruise is 16 knots, while an economical slow cruise is about 10 knots. The 68’s trawler-esque lines lend its interior extra volume for longer stays aboard. And thanks to Rover and Sirena’s standards for craftsmanship and eye for luxury, those stays will also be quite lavish. Large salon windows offer loads of natural light in the interior that plays well with the boat’s open-concept galley aft. A full-beam stateroom amidships also enjoys lots of natural light and a his-and-hers head. A VIP and third guest cabin in the bow are both ensuites, for privacy. The interior comes in a variety of woods and color schemes, all at the whim of the owner. To be sure, this yacht’s song is sweet indeed. ★
BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KEVIN KOENIG
Walker Bay REVO 21 Walk the walk.
W
hen it comes to stability and a seaworthy ride, particularly when dealing with fast boats that register on the smaller end, it’s hard to beat a rigid inflatable boat (RIB). A good RIB will simply outclass most boats its size in seakeeping ability, in large part due to its tubes. And one RIB we’ve had our eye on is the Walker Bay REVO 21, a brand-new model that is speedy, sporty and ready to be accessorized. First things first, with a single 225-hp engine the Walker Bay can reportedly hit 50 mph, which is enough giddyup to give even the most seasoned of speed demons among us a thrill. She can get you to the sandbar before anyone else, and get you home ahead of any storm, should you get caught in bad weather. The boat can also be outfitted with all manner of gadgetry. “The accessories are what makes this model really special,” says Valentina Botero,
marketing manager at Walker Bay. “You can put a wakeboard tower on it, rod holders for fishing, a shower, a boarding ladder — the console even opens up for what is actually a portable head. It’s just so versatile, and it can hold 12 people too.” Botero likes another aspect of the boat’s versatility as well: Its ease of use. “This RIB is lightweight,” she says. “You can deflate it and put it on a trailer very easily. That’s part of its appeal, along with the accessories. You can take it anywhere and do just about anything with it.” The 21 debuted at the 2021 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, where it caught boaters’ eyes for use as a primary boat, which is the capacity in which Walker Bay envisions the model being used. “People like this model, it doesn’t matter if they live in Florida, the Northeast or on the lakes,” Botero says. “It’s simply got something for everyone.” ★
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 21’8” Beam: 9’5″ Weight: 1,980 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 60 gals. Max Capacity: 12 persons Max Power: 225 hp MSRP: $66,500 WALKERBAY.COM
DEALERS Bay Marine
BAYMARINE.NET
Coral Gables Yachts
CORALGABLESYACHTS.COM
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BOAT TEST
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FOUR WINNS
Four Winns H4
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Pretty smart .
BY CHUCK WARREN
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A
s any Great Lakes boater can tell you, going for a cruise in late October is not always the wisest decision. If you’re lucky, you might get a nice ride on a pretty afternoon. However, you could end up soaked and freezing by the time you get back to the dock. As luck would have it, the sky was grey and overcast but there was almost no wind when I arrived at the Groupe Beneteau test facility in Cadillac, Michigan, for a ride on the new 24-foot 2022 Four Winns H4. It was a pretty day, but as I stood on the dock, I still questioned how smart it was to show up with nothing but a light fleece vest to keep me warm. The new Four Winns H4 tied at the dock was pointed out toward the open water and looked like it was straining at the dock lines while I reviewed the boat’s new options and features with Doyle VanderPol, who’s part of Groupe Beneteau’s marketing team.
Understated beauty
The 2022 Four Winns H4 is not a flashy boat. In fact, understated might be a better word. However, it’s a very pretty machine. The H4 is available in a variety of color schemes, but the test boat was dressed in a classy black and white combination with gray trim. The only flashy touch visible was the bright red boot stripe and red bottom — both part of Four Winn’s optional Elevate package. But, the longer you look, the prettier the H4 gets. 30
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The boat’s fluid lines and curved windshield give it a sleek, go-fast appearance that is accentuated by its dark hull. No fancy graphics, no flashy colors; just one sleek, curvy and beautiful machine reminiscent of a fine 1960s Italian sports car. The H4 is just plain pretty. Stepping aboard, it’s easy to see why Four Winns is still one of the most popular boats on the water. There are nice, sometimes simple and sometimes surprising touches throughout the boat that create a perfect balance of comfort, convenience and fun. At the transom, the large swim platform features a thoughtfully designed swim ladder placed on an angle, which reaches well-below the surface. It’s designed so you don’t need to lift your foot above your head to perch on the bottom rung, and it does not create a negative angle while trying to climb up and out. At either end of the large aft sunpad, the outboard sections convert into backrests. They can also be flipped out of the way to expose non-skid walkways so there’s no need to step on the upholstery to access the cockpit. Smart. There is plenty of seating throughout the 24-footer, with unique and useful features hidden in plain sight. At the rear of the port and starboard combing, access panels hide trash receptacles, while two hinged seat cushions hide twin carry-on coolers. Another cushion hides and protects the boat’s battery switch and main breakers. On the test boat, a small, round port was visible just
Four Winns H4
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 23’11” Beam: 8’5” Draft: 36” Weight: 4,500 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 52 gals. Water Capacity: 12 gals. Max Power: 350 hp Base Price (w/ test power): $108,277 FOURWINNS.COM
DEALERS Hall’s Sports Center
HALLSSPORTSCENTER.COM
Onekama Marine/Lake Michigan Yacht Sales
ONEK AMAMARINE.COM
SkipperBud’s
SKIPPERBUDS.COM
A really usable swim ladder. Trash receptacles! Battery charger with retractable cord.
Make the battery charger and retractable cord standard! Need some handholds higher up.
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below one of the portside cushions. Although it’s an optional feature, it was one of my favorite discoveries on the 2022 H4. Look closely and you’ll discover a retractable extension cord that feeds an onboard battery charger. Whether the boat is tied up at the dock or sitting on the trailer for the night, simply pull out the cord and plug it into an ordinary 120V outlet to make sure there’s plenty of juice available for the next day’s adventures. Pretty smart. Both the captain’s and passenger’s seats are adjustable, with flip-up bolsters for increased comfort and visibility. Here, Four Winns took something as simple as a seat adjustment and made it better. They added a foot pedal so there’s no need to crawl around on the floor to rotate the buckets. Brilliant.
Performance time
By the time I finished inspecting the boat, I was more than impressed with the 2022 Four Winns H4. However, one big question remained. Did the boat’s performance match its pretty appearance? Although the H4 is available with either Volvo or Mercruiser engine packages, when I sat at the helm and hit the key, the test boat’s Mercruiser 6.2 litre, 350-hp engine matched with the new Bravo 4 outdrive came to life. On the dash, the Simrad glass panel also came
alive, showing the controls and readouts for the boats’ engine and navigation systems, as well as the controls for the JL Audio sound system. Shifting the Bravo 4 drive into gear, I eased out a respectable distance from the dock before leaning on the throttle to push (or pull, I should say) the H4 up on plane. The boat jumped out of the water with very little bow rise before leveling off to race across Lake Cadillac. It didn’t take long before I had my answer — the boat runs as nicely as it looks. Although the H4 was the only boat on the water during my cruise, there was a slight chop on the surface, which was just enough to get a feel for the ride. The boat made tight, flat turns across the light chop with no skipping or sliding. Whether turning at half throttle or full, I never felt the need to back off the throttle. The boat ran at 48 mph top speed and settled into a nice 25 mph cruise speed at 3000 RPM. After trying to make the boat misbehave, I gave up and headed across Lake Cadillac for a nice fall cruise before sliding back up to the dock. The H4 is available with plenty of wakeboarding or surfing options like ballast bladders and tabs, lots of conveniences like USB ports and inductive phone chargers, and has enough style to make the heads of other boaters turn all day long. And, it even comes standard with a color-matched trailer. Pretty smart, Four Winns. Pretty smart. ★
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BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 45 THE QUALITY OF LIGHT . BY JOHN WOOLDRIDGE
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF BENETEAU
BOAT TEST
O
f the many virtues of the new Beneteau Gran Turismo 45 — and there are a multitude found throughout this express design — perhaps the one that will stick with you the most is the quality of light throughout the yacht. This is what you would expect from Beneteau, the world’s largest boatbuilder, when the company fuses its 136-years of engineering expertise with the best European designers, to create the flagship for its express cruiser lineup. With the air-step hull naval architecture a joint effort between MICAD naval architects and Beneteau Engineering, and primary styling from Andreani Design, the GT 45 was
destined to be a knockout from its inception. Fold in Beneteau’s reputation for precision market research and its understanding of the needs and desires of its customers and you have a formula for lasting owner satisfaction. THE HULL That satisfaction begins dockside with an appreciation of the sleek hull lines and the curving hardtop that stretches from slightly ahead of amidships and terminates over most of the aft portion of the main deck, partially shading a large sunpad. From forward, your eyes will appreciate the well-raked stem and the full-length spray strake that stretches all the way to the transom, forming wide,
flat chines that hint at excellent planing and roll dampening. There is good flare forward and a foredeck that is lightly crowned for excellent runoff and sprung down for better visibility from the helm. This model features Beneteau’s unique Air Step hull that’s designed to reduce friction, which results in improved speed and acceleration and reduced energy consumption. Side decks are modest but wide enough for walking straight ahead and are backed by stainless steel handrails wrapping the weather decks, making the trip forward safe for line-handling or anchor duties. Increased safety will be appreciated by those going forward to rest and relax on the foredeck’s recessed sunpads. LAKELANDBOATING.COM
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THE TOUR Your appreciation can only increase as you make the easy transition from floating dock to the wide, long swim platform. It’s a great place to hang out when at anchor. This large teak beach is perfect for folding deck chairs, and it can be partially lowered for easy re-boarding of swimmers young and old. The hydraulic platform can be lowered deeper still to make launching or retrieving an inflatable RIB easy. And when you’re ready to run, Beneteau has provided a snug under-transom garage with winch and rollers sized for a 7.5-foot dinghy. There’s also room in here for inflatable paddleboards (with an optional electric air compressor), plus the tenderlift bathing platform can support up to 771 pounds of dinghy or PWC simultaneously. When you close the hatch, another feature completes the well-thought-out functionality of the GT 45. Recessed into the after edge of the transom hatch is a food prep area and an outdoor barbecue, taking grilling and its sometimes smoky, spattering byproducts out of the seating area beneath the hardtop. Climbing the portside steps up to the aft deck level, which is continuous with the main deck under the hardtop, you pass the massive sunpad set to starboard and step through the main entrance into what, in boating seasons past, used to be called the “sun deck.” Wide open to the sun and wind, with the exception of shade provided by a cloth Bimini and Isinglass for protection from the wind and slanting rain, this was and still is the primary space for enjoying the boating experience in family express cruisers. THE IMPROVED SUN DECK As they have with express cruisers over the last decade or two, Beneteau provides the ultimate weather protection with a tall hardtop and a full glass aft bulkhead abaft the broad windshield. Cabin-side glass panels are tall and deep, increasing a visual connection with the water streaming off the hull while underway or at anchor. All closed up, it is easily air conditioned or heated. The effect is remarkable, allowing abundant natural light and virtually unhindered visibility in every direction. Acknowledging that boat owners are outdoor aficionados, the designers then provide openings for increased natural ventilation. In addition to an opening glass door between the aft deck and the sun deck, there is a push-button operated pane of glass to starboard that swings upward and aft from a low bulkhead separating the C-shaped seating abaft the helm seating to starboard and the sunpad. Another button engages a sliding overhead hatch forward, reaping volumes of light and natural ventilation that flow cleanly through the sun deck and provides another connection with the outdoors. Finally, there are large rectangular sliding windows in frames in the center of the side window glazing. They appear very watertight and are effective in a cross-breeze, but are at odds visually with every other smoothly flowing line in the deckhouse. Perhaps there will come a day when future GT models will have sections of side glass that lower and raise on lifts. That’s more maintenance and production cost, to be certain. Visibility from the helm is unparalleled when the primary deck is encircled with so much glass. There are two seats at the helm: A single helm seat outboard and a wider bench nearer the 34
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centerline. Two children or one adult can join the helmsman to watch the progress of the voyage, and perhaps even participate in navigation. The helmsman is given a wealth of tools for slow speed maneuvering, including a dual binnacle, a joystick to control the standard Volvo Penta IPS pod drives and a side-to-side bow thruster control stick — all positioned within easy reach of the tilting wheel. The advantages are clear: Moving forward, back or sideways are functional strengths of the IPS system, but if you find yourself in a cross-winded situation at the dock or backing into a slip, a touch of the bow thruster helps align the boat properly and in short order. DOWN BELOW A gently curved portside staircase that is illuminated by overhead glass panels as well as large hullside windows lead down to the accommodation deck, featuring a two-cabin, two-head layout with a central living area that includes a portside galley and a U-shaped dinette to starboard. Gray walnut and white lacquer are the predominant visual themes, along with plenty of dedicated spot lighting. Fit and finish are clean and precise, perhaps the finest Beneteau has ever produced. The forward stateroom has twin berths, perfect for kids, that can easily swing together, scissors-like, to form a comfy double berth for another couple. There are two hanging lockers and handy companionway access to the portside day head and its shower compartment. The amidships owner’s stateroom features a centerline fore-and-aft berth flanked by a desk to port and a bench seat to starboard. Large hullside windows illuminate the compartment that might otherwise seem too dark. Owners have private access to an ensuite head equipped with a separate shower. UNDERWAY The GT 45 gets up on plane in less than 10 seconds and carves turns that are smooth and predictable. Twin IPS 600 drivetrains provide the precision handling at speed or at idle around the docks. Our test boat was hull No. 2, the first in the U.S., and it achieved 33 knots at WOT with nearly a full load of fuel. Best operating speed was 22.5 knots at 3000 RPM, producing a fuel burn of 23.2 gph for a rating of 1.0 nautical miles per gallon and a range of 207 nautical miles (with a 10% fuel reserve). Moving up to a larger boat is an exciting prospect for most boat owners. Beneteau has designed the new Gran Turismo 45 with the multiple qualities of light, finish, comfort and performance that will satisfy the most demanding owner. H
BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 45 S P E C I F I CATI O N S LOA: 48’5” Beam: 13’8” Draft: 3’9” Weight: 24,782 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 238 gals. Water Capacity: 106 gals. Power: 2 x 440-hp Volvo Penta IPS 600 MSRP (as equipped): $941,000
Spectacular fit and finish everywhere. The light and visibility beneath the hardtop is exceptional.
DEALERS Centerpointe Yacht Services
The rectangular, manually operated opening windows set into the cabin side glazing seem visually out of place, but accomplish their function well and economically.
Maple City Marine
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CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM MAPLECITYMARINE.COM
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PLASTIC i
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEA-DOO
t would be a bit hyperbolic to say that BRP has reinvented the pontoon boat. But with its new Sea-Doo Switch series, BRP has certainly reimagined the pontoon concept, in so many ways. The hulls are plastic, rather than aluminum. The propulsion is by jet drive, rather than outboard motor. Control is through a handlebar, not a steering wheel. The seats plug into the deck like Legos. And with base pricing ranging from $18,000 to $36,500, including a trailer, buying a Switch will not wipe out the college fund. Set to reach Sea-Doo dealers in early winter 2022, the Switch series is comprised of eight models in three lengths and three trim levels. The smallest Switch base model rides a hull not quite 13 feet long, the longest is 19 feet long, and there’s a 16-foot model in between. Trim levels include the base Switch and the Switch Sport, each available in the 13-, 16- or 19-foot hull length, and the Switch Cruise in the 16- and 19-foot hull length. The largest models weigh less than 3,500 pounds on the trailer with fuel, towable with a mid-size vehicle.
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FANTASTIC With the Sea-Doo Switch series, BRP reimagines the pontoon boat. BY CHARLES PLUEDDEMAN
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THE FUTURE IS PLASTIC
The Switch models are technically pontoons, in that each has a flat deck over three separate hulls. But rather than form those hulls from sealed aluminum tubes, BRP created a wide center V-bottom hull element flanked by a pair of narrow V-bottom elements, each molded Polytec Gen 2, a proprietary polymer plastic material developed for Sea-Doo personal watercraft hulls. The center hull is 14 inches deeper in the water than the outboard elements. At rest the Switch boats have the stability of a traditional pontoon, but when underway the boats are really riding that wide center hull. In a turn the hull heels over a bit but is supported by an outboard hull. So unlike a typical pontoon, the Switch boats slice neatly through chop, lean comfortably into a turn, and are very maneuverable. The color is part of the Polytec Gen 2 material, which is very resistant to scratching and minor dock dings. All models use the same brightly colored bow sections and the same black aft sections. In between are white sections that determine boat length. The 13-foot Compact model has two middle sections, the 16 uses three sections, and the 19 uses four, which are bolted together during manufacturing. This design gives BRP flexibility on the factory floor, because, rather than work from molds specific to each boat model, all the boats use the same pieces. The three hull parts are joined by bolted crossmembers, which in turn support the deck.
JET POWER
A single three-cylinder, four-stroke Rotax 1630 ACE jet propulsion system powers each Switch model. The engine is offered at three ratings: 100, 170 and 230 hp. The entire powertrain is essentially identical to one used in many Sea-Doo personal watercraft and features a closed cooling system that keeps corrosive saltwater out of the engine block. The Switch models offer all of the advantages of jet propulsion: Draft of less than 20 inches, no prop to ding up, and no gearcase or trim system to maintain. However, the jet drive is less efficient than a prop; for example BRP says the 100-hp jet drive makes thrust equivalent to a 70-hp outboard. These engines are also much louder than the current super-quiet outboards, and the 100- and 170-hp engines pass some vibration through the deck. Top speed ranges come in at about 28 mph for the Compact models with 100 hp to 46 mph for a 16-foot Sport with 230 hp.
HANDLEBAR CONTROL
The handlebar control system is also lifted directly from Sea-Doo watercraft, and this feature may be the highlight of the Switch line. It makes docking and low-speed maneuvering a snap because you can instantly shift from forward to reverse and apply quick bursts of throttle — exactly the technique that works best with a jet drive. When the engine is started the system automatically selects neutral thrust. Apply throttle with the trigger on the right handlebar and the system shifts to forward thrust. Pull in on the left hand Intelligent Brake and Reverse (iBR) lever and reverse thrust is engaged. Release that lever and you’re back in neutral until throttle is applied. This becomes intuitive in about 15 minutes. The iBR system also acts as a brake. In an urgent situation while underway you can squeeze the left lever and iBR drops the jet drive reverse bucket to create a braking action that helps slow the boat quickly, but not violently. Thumb buttons on the handlebars are used to set cruise control and to scroll and select functions viewed on a screen display on the dash.
INTERIOR OPTIONS
The entire helm is mounted on a sculpted pedestal to port, and it’s really the only fixed element of the cockpit. The deck is covered in large plastic tiles, each with slots that accept modular seat and table components, which makes it possible to arrange the 18-inch-wide seat elements in many different ways — from one to four seats in a row, facing inboard, facing forward or facing aft. The bottom cushion of each opens or lifts off to reach stowage below. There are also corner sections that double as small tables and hold specially designed JL Audio speakers. 38
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For lounging, the Switch Sport and Cruise are equipped with soft, square 8mm thick polyurethane mats that snap into the deck tiles and are paired with sport lounge backrests. The combination is surprisingly comfortable, and it’s a lot of fun to sit on the forward deck while underway. The fence around the deck is powder-coated extruded aluminum and frames soft clear-sided panels intended to make you feel close to the water. To exaggerate this sensation on Sport models the top fence rail dips to only 16 inches above the deck at the bow. On the base and Cruise models the top rail is 25 inches above the deck, which offers a bit more security. There are a few design misses on these boats. There are fence gates at the bow and stern, but not on the sides, which can make for tricky boarding in some situations. The swim platform does not extend fully to either corner of the transom, so it’s not useful for boarding from a dock. The fuel fill, located just above the deck and forward the helm pedestal, will be really hard to reach from a high gas dock, but manageable if the boat is on its trailer. All models have cruise control, dedicated anchor stowage and a stowage compartment below the middle of the deck. The Sport and Cruise models get more standard features, including a Bimini top, corner tables, a Bluetooth audio system, a boarding ladder and a 7-inch Garmin MFD. For towsports, the Sport models have an inflatable tube holder, a rearview mirror and a tow mode. There are also accessory bundles and dozens of individual accessories for each model. The goal of the Switch line, according to BRP, is to take the friction out of boating — make the boat easy to buy, to own, to handle and to optimize for any day on the water. This took some real imagination! H
THE GOAL OF THE SWITCH LINE, ACCORDING TO BRP, IS TO TAKE THE FRICTION OUT OF BOATING.
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Stone Lab
M Stone Lab students doing research in Lake Erie
Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers
Prevent the introduction and spread of invasive aquatic non-native plants, invertebrates and fish that can cause significant environmental and economic damage to our lakes and waterways. To learn how to help, visit Ohio Sea Grant’s study “Ohio Field Guide to Aquatic Invasive Species” at BIT.LY/3DSL59D —Courtesy of Ohio Sea Grant and Stone Laboratory
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ajestic and immense, the Great Lakes are the greatest bodies of freshwater on the planet, yet there are dangers that, left unchecked, could threaten their health and well being. Just as the lakes are in constant motion, so too are the professionals who research, communicate, create programming, educate and encourage the rest of us to take action. Ohio Sea Grant and its Stone Laboratory is just one of the many agencies working tirelessly alongside the lakes, identifying emerging dangers and helping to prevent them.
STONE LABORATORY: SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
Housed on the campus of Ohio State University on Gibraltar Island in Lake Erie, Ohio Sea Grant’s Stone Laboratory works hands-on in the water, producing raw data that becomes building blocks for action and change. The Stone Lab is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA) Sea Grant network, with eight programs specifically dedicated to protecting a sustainable use of marine and other resources throughout the Great Lakes region. NOAA is charged with understanding and predicting changes in climate, weather, oceans and coasts, then sharing that knowledge and information to conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. “Every state that bumps into one of the Great Lakes is NOAA-funded through these Sea Grants, and it is our job to understand that body of water,” explains Director Christopher Winslow, PhD. “About 40% of our funding comes direct nationally from Washington D.C., and then we rely on local folks to identify the issues that need to be addressed.” Once a grant is awarded to an investigator, the freshwater field station Stone Laboratory is mobilized, with extensive lab facilities, field equipment, research vessels, and even the necessary housing for those conducting the research on and in Lake Erie.
A L L P H O T O S T H I S PA G E C O U R T E S Y O F O H I O S E A G R A N T; FA R L E F T P H O T O B Y D A N I E L COMBS/OHIO SEA GRANT
Protecting and Preserving
How different organizations are working to save the greatest freshwater bodies of water on the planet. by Kim Racette
BOTTOM PHOTOS COURTESY OF (FROM LEFT TO RIGHT): F R E S H W AT E R F U T U R E ; O H I O S E A G R A N T, F R E S H W AT E R F U T U R E
the Great Lakes
“We do the research — play the nerdy role — to identify the problem, and then extend it into the hands of those who can play a role in changing behavior and policies,” Winslow says. Both Ohio Sea Grant and Stone Laboratory are also charged with monitoring the long-term health of the Great Lakes, with strategic planning based on the National Sea Grant’s focus areas: Healthy coastal ecosystems; resilient communities and economies; sustainable fisheries and aquaculture; and environmental literacy and workforce development. Each focus area has subsets, and many over the years have become part of the national conversation about clean water. These include: Invasive species management; addressing harmful algal blooms; and monitoring emerging and historic contaminants. Some efforts are lesser-known but are just as crucial to maintaining the health of the lakes. “We have eight navigational channels supporting the shipping industry that the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredge each year, and they need to be maintained at a 26-foot deep channel,” Winslow explains. “What do you do with the sediment collected and where do you go with it? We come up with a cost-effective way to maintain these each year.” Managing trash is a new challenge Ohio Sea Grant and Stone Laboratory are tackling along with The Ohio Marinas Program and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources — cleaning up marine debris and litter along the lakeshore. “The surge in outdoor recreation as a result of the pandemic has been wonderful in many ways, but the strain of additional foot traffic and subsequent litter and other disturbances to the natural environment are not to be ignored,” says Sarah Orlando, Clean Marinas program manager. “We are partnering to encourage ‘responsible recreation’ including being both safe and mindful of one’s impact on the natural environment while in the outdoors.”
Mentor Headlands Beach Cleanup
FRESHWATER FUTURE: A GRASSROOTS MOVEMENT
But what about those agencies that don’t have the resources to mount large excursions and teams? Funding small local agencies that have boots on the ground is a priority for Freshwater Future, which has offices in Michigan and Canada. “We are a collaborative and entrepreneurial organization that seeks perspective from diverse communities and individuals, and we support a lot of small grassroots groups,” explains Communications and Development Director Leslie Burk. “We’ve worked with people who started sitting around their kitchen table, who have now grown to helping solve some of the biggest challenges faced by the Great Lakes.” Over the past 25 years, Freshwater Future has supported over 2,000 citizens’ groups in both urban and rural communities in the Great Lakes region and provided over $5 million in funding through more than 1,260 grants.
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Five things you can do to protect the Great Lakes
1. Watch what you wash. Use cold water with liquid detergent as infrequently as possible, and install a washing machine filter to strain out microscopic plastic fibers. 2. Go fertilizer-free. Prevent nutrient pollution that contributes to near-shore harmful algal blooms. 3. Ditch the aquatic hitchhikers. Rinse and wipe down watercraft before moving to another body of water. 4. Dispose of meds properly. Do not flush down the toilet. 5. Get political. Support candidates who support the Great Lakes.
“We consult on how to take action, to qualify as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, create and build a website, and how to fundraise,” Burk explains. “We help train technical skills, give assistance on working with social media and many other things needed to be successful. We believe change happens at the local level!” Setting up networks of agencies and groups who can work together is also a priority for Freshwater Future. “Our Great Lakes Network is effective because for all of us it is all about the water,” she says. To that end, clean and affordable water are priority issues Freshwater Future is tackling from several directions. “With the infrastructure bill that was just passed by the federal government, we are working hard to get the word out about lead lines in disenfranchised communities,” Burk explains. “It isn’t that the local communities don’t care, they just don’t know it’s happening.” Outreach efforts include education on testing and filtering water. “With improvements being made, now costs are being passed on to the consumer, and that is creating a
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water affordability problem. Folks can’t afford their water bills, so this is a very real problem that has to be addressed.”
ALLIANCE FOR THE GREAT LAKES: MOBILIZING VOLUNTEERS Celebrating its 50th year anniversary in 2020, the Alliance for the Great Lakes is a nonpartisan nonprofit headquartered in Chicago, with additional staff in Michigan, Ohio, New York, Wisconsin and Washington D.C. Vice President of Communication and Engagement Jennifer Caddick explains that the Alliance works across the Great Lakes region in several ways to protect and restore the lakes. “One of our primary focuses is advocacy, to make sure the right laws and regulations are in place,” she explains. “At the same time, we need to fight off those that may be harmful to the lakes. Our policy team works with all three levels of government — local, regional and national — so we’re very busy!” Although the Alliance’s core issues remain — fighting aquatic invasive non-native species, for example — Caddick says they also have great concerns with the aging water infrastructure and its impact.
“We have the largest surface freshwater system in the world, and we hold 18% of the surface freshwater, yet at the same time, unfortunately, communities right on the shores can’t access it,” she says. “They need the money to fix and repair water treatment plants and replace lead lines, among many other things. They need the resources necessary to repair the water infrastructure, because some of the things happening right now — like what has happened in Flint, Michigan, and other disenfranchised communities — is simply not OK.” A long-standing priority is mobilizing volunteers — thousands of them. The Alliance has put together several hands-on programs, including a Great Lakes Voter Toolkit that educates voters in support of Great Lakes issues, training for Alliance Ambassadors, and a K-12 educational curriculum that has connected nearly 60,000 students with opportunities to learn through experience with the Great Lakes. Adopt-a-Beach is one of the Alliance’s most well-known and supported programs, with efforts that go way beyond just keeping the lakeshore pristine. “We work with about 15,000 volunteers each year on all the Great Lakes and in all
P H O T O S T H I S PA G E C O U R T E S Y O F A L L I A N C E F O R T H E G R E AT L A K E S
—Courtesy of FRESHWATERFUTURE.ORG
BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF OHIO DNR; ALL OTHER C O U R T E S Y O F A L L I A N C E F O R T H E G R E AT L A K E S
Monofilament (fishing line) recycling bin
eight beach states to go out and clean up, but we also have them meticulously track what they pick up, and then compile the info into a database,” Caddick explains. “For the past 15 years, this has been used by numerous researchers to gain an important understanding of the [litter] problem, which then is used by elected officials and government agencies. All thanks to our volunteers!” In November 2021, the Alliance reported that in 2021 alone, volunteers hosted beach cleanups on all five Great Lakes and in all eight states, with 7,883 volunteers gathering 25,280 pounds of litter at 719 beach cleanups. In total, over the past 30 years, the Alliance’s Adopt-a-Beach cleanups has mobilized over 200,000 volunteers to help clean up 8,282,807 pieces of litter.
GREAT LAKES LOCALS: WHAT CAN WE DO?
What can the rest of us do to help protect the Great Lakes? “Slow the water down, use rain barrels, install a rain garden, and use low-flow shower heads because these all make a difference in what enters our waters,” Winslow points out. “Don’t fertilize lawns
and gardens unless you absolutely have to, because that excessive nutrient pollution encourages harmful algal blooms. The more natural chemicals the better. And no singleuse plastic, including bags and straws!” Boaters and those who like to fish can really help too. “After pulling your boat out of the water, power wash it to stop hitchhikers,” Winslow says. “Look at your bait fish, make sure there isn’t anything else in there that could be invasive, then destroy what you don’t use.” Caddick also suggests making some noise. She points out that letting elected officials know your concerns and what you’d like them to do about it does make a huge difference. “Visit our Action Center. Thousands of decisions are made daily that directly impact the safety of our drinking water and the health of our lakes and rivers,” she says. “We need people’s voices, so we help make it easy to send a letter or get in touch with legislators and local officials on water issues that are important to you.” Caddick also suggests becoming a volunteer or making a donation. “There are many ways you can help us to protect the lakes!” she says. ★
Great Lakes Compact: A regional commitment
Did you know? The Great Lakes-St Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact was approved by all eight Great Lakes States, the U.S. Congress, and was signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2008. The Compact bans the diversion of Great Lakes water outside the basin. There are only two exceptions: A community that is partially in the Great Lakes basin, or a community that is located within a county that is partially in the basin. Any exceptions must be applied and subjected to a rigorous approval process. The Compact also required each Great Lake state and province to set up water management programs to ensure the water we have is used wisely. —Excerpted from GREATLAKES.ORG.
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Lake M
MILWAUKEE
Kin
nick
inni
c Ri
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Menomonee River
ichigan
M
ilw au ke e
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PORT OF CALL
Kayaking the Milwaukee River near the Third Ward Riverwalk
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Whitecaps & Bottle Caps Wisconsin’s largest city along Lake Michigan features urban green spaces, miles of bicycling trails, a downtown filled with cultural attractions and vibrant riverfront development. A craft brewery boom and innovation from local chefs proves Milwaukee’s got a lot more to offer than brats and cheap beer when in port.
PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT MILWAUKEE
BY KRISTINE HANSEN
Blessed with a shoreline hugging Lake Michigan that’s conveniently within walking distance of major cultural attractions, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a hidden gem for boaters. Compared to Chicago’s shoreline, it’s not as crowded or busy — whether indoors or out. You can bicycle along Lincoln Memorial Drive (Milwaukee’s version of Lake Shore Drive) and not feel boxed in, or pop into a Milwaukee Art Museum exhibit and not be shoulder to shoulder in the galleries. In fact, more and more Illinoisans are opting to park their boats in Milwaukee for these reasons and more. Wisconsin’s largest city is home to two major universities (Marquette University and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee), as well as major-league sports teams (the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks and the MLB’s Milwaukee Brewers), which both have stadiums in the city of Milwaukee. LAKELANDBOATING.COM
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Milwaukee Art Museum and lakefront
McKinley Marina Colectivo on the Lake Discovery World
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Getting there Milwaukee is home to three marinas. McKinley Marina, on the East Side, is Milwaukee County’s only public option, with 655 slips on floating docks. Some are rented out seasonally while others can be rented for the day. In adjacent Veterans Park is where the Milwaukee Community Sailing Center is based, teaching youth and adults to sail every summer. A pavilion offers restrooms and showers, and if you’re already aching for some java, Colectivo Coffee Roasters’ café is across the street in Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District’s Flushing Station, built in 1888 from Cream City brick. Or, walk a mile north on Lincoln Memorial Drive to Bradford Beach and a frozen-custard stand called MooSa’s Custard awaits. With 230 slips, the much smaller South Shore Yacht Club in the Bay View neighborhood is 10 minutes south of downtown Milwaukee and home to the annual Queen’s Cup Race in late June. Older than the America’s Cup, the race that debuted in 1847 begins at the yacht club and ends on the other side of Lake Michigan in Muskegon, Michigan. The yacht club’s restaurant serves Friday dinners. Membership fees strive to remain affordable, starting at $1,787 annually. Similar to McKinley Marina, this marina is in the heart of a neighborhood. Italian grocery items at Groppi’s for a picnic or craft beer, and burgers on edgy Palomino’s outdoor patio are just up the hill. In the Third Ward you’ll see quite a few riverfront condos with boat slips that allow their owners easy access into the mouth of Lake Michigan. Walking or sailing along the Milwaukee River in downtown or the Third Ward, you will probably see boats tied up to docks outside restaurants and breweries. This is another fun part of Milwaukee’s culture, inviting you to arrive by land or boat, whichever you prefer. Boaters on the Milwaukee River also have access to CenterPointe Yacht Services, which offers service and parts, haul and launch, indoor and outdoor storage, as well as a fuel dock and boat sales.
Maritime and beer history While Wisconsin’s largest city is often assumed to have been founded by beer barons in the mid to late 1860s, even earlier — during the 1700s — were the French fur traders. And even before that, American Indian tribes lived off of the rich, fertile land. Throughout its history, Milwaukee has served as a place of maritime importance, enabling ships to traverse from the St. Lawrence Seaway into Lake Michigan, by way of Lake Erie and Lake Huron. Port Milwaukee, in operation since 1835 and much larger than Chicago’s port, transports commodities that include salt, limestone, steel, fertilizers and ethanol. In 2020 the port handled its highest annual volume of cargo, according to Port Milwaukee data. Viking Cruises and Pearl Seas — two small-ship cruise lines — have already started to market itineraries that stop in Milwaukee. Housed at the Milwaukee Public Library’s Central Library branch in downtown Milwaukee, the Wisconsin Marine Historical Society maintains the Great Lakes Maritime Collection. In addition to these deep maritime roots, beer barons from Germany are largely responsible for growing Milwaukee on a commercial level. Breweries like Pabst, Schlitz, Miller and Blatz were all brewed here by the late 1800s.
Museums and attractions
TOP PHOTO COURTESY COASTED MEDIA/UNSPLASH; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF VISIT MILWAUKEE
2 0 2 2 EVE NT S Jan 1: Polar Bear Plunge June TBD: Queen’s Cup Race June 2: Festa Italiana June 10-12: Polish Festival June 23-25: Summerfest Weekend 1 June 30 – July 2: Summerfest Weekend 2 July 7-9: Summerfest Weekend 3 July 23-24: Milwaukee Air & Water Show July 29-31: German Fest Aug TBD: Milwaukee Irish Fest Aug 4-14: Wisconsin State Fair Aug 5-7: USA Triathlon
You needn’t leave the lakeshore to visit two major cultural attractions: The Santiago Calatravadesigned Milwaukee Art Museum (a work so marvelous TIME Magazine named it “the best new design of the year” in 2001) and Discovery World (a science center for all ages with a replica 19th-century three-masted wooden, gaff-rigged schooner called S/V Denis Sullivan). The art museum is attached to the 1957 Milwaukee County War Memorial Center, designed by Eero Saarinen and an events center today. Adjacent to these three institutions, just to the south, is Lakeshore State Park, a fantastic spot to stretch your legs and be close to the water. Simply strolling the streets of downtown Milwaukee reveals hints of its German-immigrant heritage, from the 1895 city hall, looming into the sky from its angular position along North Water Street. Until Hamburg, Germany, unveiled its new city hall in 1897, this was the world’s tallest building, and the older building actually inspired Milwaukee’s. The Flemish Renaissance Revival style is the masterwork of architect Henry Koch. Further south, in the Third Ward, which is another walkable neighborhood, former meat- and vegetable-packing warehouses are now home to art galleries, clothing boutiques, cafes and restaurants. The Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, on Erie Street, frequently hosts student and community art shows. Renting bikes from Bublr (just look for a kiosk) provides an opportunity to explore the Oak Leaf Trail’s 135 miles of trails for hiking and bicycling or the 14-mile paved Hank Aaron Trail stretching from Milwaukee’s lakeshore to the Milwaukee-Waukesha county line.
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Nearly every weekend in summer is a different ethnic or cultural festival at the 75-acre Henry Maier Festival Park, anchored by Summerfest, the longest-running musical festival lasting about 10 days from late June through early July. In 2022, the festival’s format pivots to three consecutive weekends, filled with live-music performances from internationally known acts, as well as food and beer stands highlighting Milwaukee institutions. Other summer festivals at the grounds, which are next to Lakeshore State Park, include Polish Fest, German Fest, Irish Fest and Festa Italiana, filled with music, crafts and food. For some on-water fun, try Boat MKE, located on the Milwaukee River in the East Town neighborhood. Here you can rent circular donut boats (complete with a donut bar), retro boats, a Duffy electric boat or a speed boat, which riders can take out to Lake Michigan.
For a taste of Key West — complete with the laid-back vibe and slices of key-lime pie and lobster rolls — dock at Barnacle Bud’s, adjacent to SkipperBud’s south of Walker’s Point and north of Bay View. (SkipperBud’s offers dry-dock and winter storage, not on the water, but it’s still a popular hub for sailors.) A recent expansion at Barnacle Bud’s means even more outdoor seating. Naturally, Milwaukee’s monikers of cheese and brats are not hard to find. Scoop up both at Milwaukee Public Market, designed after Seattle’s Pike Place Market, which highlights food artisans in the state, including award-winning Wisconsin cheesemakers at West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe or a “Milwaukee Brat” (grilled beer brat stuffed in a pretzel bun) at Fultz Family Market, with a side of truffle frites. For a peek at innovation, drop into one of the country’s few urban creameries: Clock Shadow Creamery, inside an eco-friendly building in Walker’s Point. Witness cheese curds being made on select afternoons, although you can always score a bag in the store, along with cheese from other Wisconsin creameries. If fine dining is a must — paired with a Lake Michigan view — two Bartolotta Restaurants’ eateries deliver. Wedged between Milwaukee Art Museum and Discovery World, Harbor House is a sleek, narrow and glass-walled dining room jutting out into Lake Michigan serving oysters, surf and turf, and one of the city’s best wine lists. On a nice day, sink into Adirondack chairs on the patio overlooking the art museum. In the eastern edge of Frederick Law Olmsted-designed Lake Park, Lake Park Bistro is a veritable trip to France with dishes like butter-poached lobster and artichokes in a lobster beurre blanc with aromatic herbs, a dish Chef Paul Bartolotta unearthed while an apprentice at the Michelin three-star Le Moulin de Mougins on the Cote d’Azur. Dine inside a former park pavilion, its windows framing lake views. The prix-fixe Haut Bistro Menu is a four-course experience folding in a starter, middle course, main course and dessert.
RESOURCES BOAT FACILITIES McKinley Marina
COUNTY.MILWAUKEE.GOV
South Shore Yacht Club SSYC.ORG
Milwaukee Community Sailing Center SAILINGCENTER.ORG
Beer
SkipperBud’s - Milwaukee
It would be practically criminal to not talk about how to experience Milwaukee’s craft beer scene. While most major cities foster craft brewers today, what’s unique about Brew City is that the suds hearken back to its roots. While you can still tour (and taste) at Miller Brewing Company, there are also 30-some breweries to whet your palate; most debuted within the last decade. A handy Brew City Beer Pass Brewery Map on Visit Milwaukee’s website is a great place to start plotting your route. Many tasting rooms flaunt beautiful water views, such as City Lights Brewing Co.’s perch along the Menomonee River, where live music provides a reason to linger on warm weekends. You can also book an hour-long tour of its 118-year-old buildings that once housed the Milwaukee Gas Light Company. Milwaukee’s second-oldest craft brewery — Lakefront Brewery — hosts a tasting room along the Milwaukee River in Brewers Hill, not far from where many of the beer barons once lived in Victorian-style homes. Visit on a Friday night and you’ll be treated to a fish fry and live polka performance in its beer hall. Tours are also offered.
SKIPPERBUDS.COM
CenterPointe Yacht Services CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM
ATTRACTIONS Discovery World
DISCOVERY WORLD.ORG
Milwaukee Art Museum MAM.ORG
Milwaukee Public Market
MILWAUKEEPUBLICMARKET.ORG
Wisconsin Marine Historical Society
Big city by an even bigger lake Blending experiences surrounding architecture, cuisine and craft beer — not to mention an abundance of green spaces — Milwaukee’s lakefront setting is one not to miss or overlook. Each of the four seasons shows vibrancy, whether it’s a quiet morning along the snowdusted lake, basking in the long days of sunlight come summer, or autumn’s brilliantly hued foliage later in the year. ★
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WMHS.ORG
TOURISM Visit Milwaukee
VISITMILWAUKEE.ORG
PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT MILWAUKEE
Dining
Summerfest
Summerfest
Donut Boat MKE
Night Market
Lakefront Brewery
Milwaukee Public Market
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BOAT BIZ
PHOTOS BY BRAD SIMMONS
BY ABBY THORPE
Gifts Afloat
MORE INFORMATION Gifts Afloat 25020 Jefferson St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 586-777-8300 GIFTSAFLOAT.COM
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A nautical gift store for every type of boater.
I
“
t’s always been my mission to provide a nautical gift for every occasion: Birthday, anniversary, retirement,” explains Donna Flaherty, owner of Gifts Afloat located in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. From the moment you step in the door, you’re greeted with a warm welcome and an incredible variety of everything nautical, from collectibles to home decor items and every gift imaginable. Flaherty and her late husband started the store in 1976, when her intention was to create a mini department store of all nautical apparel and decor —the things she herself wanted but couldn’t find at any local marine stores. It was before online shopping took off, and Gifts Afloat grew quickly in the ’80s. To this day, things are still done the old-fashioned way. There’s no online store (although they do have a website), you have to experience the magic of the store in person when you step off your boat onto the Nautical Mile.
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Gifts Afloat is located along the one mile stretch of Jefferson that has been dubbed the Nautical Mile for the many marine businesses that line its streets. This is a popular destination for boaters, and customers arrive at Gifts Afloat from all directions. “As soon as they step in the door, they return,” Flaherty says, who has had clientele from the late 1970s return to the store. “I love the people coming in the door. They’re very kind. The majority of them are boaters, sailors; they love the fact that I have a store open. I provide personal service and they love it.” Flaherty’s products center on the Great Lakes and Lake St. Clair, and she tries to offer Michigan-made products whenever possible. It’s the wide variety of quality, specialty products that really sets Gifts Afloat apart. “That’s what makes it popular — at the end of the day it’s such a variety,” she says. ★
LAKESHORE LIFE BY ABBY THORPE
ADDRESS 50 North Shore Dr N. South Haven, MI 49090 SPECS Bedrooms: 4 Baths: 5 Square Footage: 6,953 Acreage: 1.52 Shoreline: 110 feet Price: $3,900,000
ANDREACROSSMAN.COM
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A backyard paradise on the shores of Lake Michigan.
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CONTACT Andrea Crossman Andrea Crossman Group, Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt 616-312-2237
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South Haven, MI
his stately brick manor’s beautiful entrance and covetable indoor gathering spaces are second only to its stunning backyard. Situated above the beautiful sandy shores of Lake Michigan, this South Haven, Michigan, home is an outdoor lover’s paradise. “[It’s] located on coveted North Shore Drive in South Haven with miles of walkable beach in this very boater-friendly community, with the Black River for fishing and the channel to Lake Michigan,” explains Realtor Andrea Crossman. “This Lake Michigan home features an infinity pool and great outdoor living spaces, a huge sandy beach area, and is one of the best indoor entertaining homes in the South Haven area.” The expansive back patio features all the space and extras you need for epic outdoor entertaining during the warmer months. Two newly built steel-framed pergolas, a hot tub, a large brick fireplace, a grill and a mini fridge complete the
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outdoor dining and living area. Head down the stairs at the rear to enjoy 110 feet of private sandy beach frontage with epic views of the lake. Indoors, two main-level fireplaces, slate and wood floors, and a gourmet kitchen featuring two bar areas, three refrigerator/freezers, a Viking six-burner stove, and custom woodwork and cabinetry lend a warm, inviting atmosphere during the colder months. Soak up natural light and scenic views from the large windows overlooking the lake, or escape to one of the four spacious rooms for a cozy retreat, with room to spare in this 6,953-square-foot home. The upstairs owner’s suite boasts a double vanity in the center of the ensuite, as well as a large tiled shower. Four garage stalls provide plenty of space for cars and toys, while pristine, luscious landscaping complete the ideal of your own private manor house, only minutes away from the attractions of town. ★
MAR I N E MAR K ET PL AC E
ONEKAMA MARINE, INC.
LAKE MICHIGAN YACHT SALES
Onekama, MI • (231) 889-5000 www.onekamamarine.com
Bay Harbor, MI • (231) 439-2675 www.lakemichiganyachtsales.com
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SPRING DELIVERY | ONLY ONE OF EACH AVAILABLE | AVAILABLE SPRING 2022
Regal 42 Grande Coupe
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Cobia 240 DC (2 available)
Cobia 262 CC
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BASASMARINE.COM MAIN LOCATION Basa’s Marine, 512 E. North Frontage Road, Bolingbrook, IL
MICHIGAN LOCATION Basa’s at Oselka Marina, 514 W. Water Street, New Buffalo, MI
Visit Bay Marine in Milwaukee to check out these boats!
2022 EDGEWATER
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WWW.BAYMARINE.NET • SALES@BAYMARINE.NET
* Not all brands sold at all locations
NEW & USED INVENTORY 60 56 56 53 53 50 50 45 45 44 43 42 42 40 38 38 38 37 37 36 36 35 34 34 34 34 33 33 32 32 31
2017 2002 1985 1979 1979 2022 2003 1995 2022 1999 2015 2003 2014 1996 2000 2014 2009 2012 2022 2001 1996 2011 2006 2022 2001 2001 2022 1991 2022 2014 2003
Hatteras 60 Motor Yacht..............$2,800,000 Viking 55 Convertible....................... $899,999 Hatteras 56 MY ...................................$279,000 Hatteras Yacht Fisherman................$180,000 Hatteras 53 Yacht Fisherman .........$180,000 Riviera 505 SUV ............................................... call Sea Ray 500 Sundancer ................. $389,999 Bayliner 4587 Motoryacht...............$125,000 Sabre 45 Salon Express ................................ call Baja 442 ................................................$115,000 Custom Houseboat.............................. $49,000 Sea Ray 420 Sundancer ................. $244,999 Viking 42 Sport Coupe .....................$799,000 Tiara Yachts 4000 Express ............. $200,000 Sea Ray 380 Sundancer .................... $99,999 Cruisers Yachts 380 Express ........ $280,000 Fountain Sportfish CC ...................... $244,999 Sea Ray 370 Sundancer...................$239,999 EdgeWater 370CC........................................... call Carver 350 Mariner.............................. $84,900 Cruisers 3650 Aft Cabin..................... $79,500 Sea Ray 350 Sundancer ..................$215,500 Sea Ray 340 Sundancer ..................$144,999 Edgewater 340CC ........................................... call Cruisers 3470 ....................................... $99,900 Sea Ray 340 Sundancer .................... $90,000 Crevalle 33 CSF................................................ call Tiara 3300 Open .................................. $74,900 EdgeWater 320CC..........................................call Chris Craft 32 Corsair........................$229,900 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer .................... $59,999
30 28 28 28 27 26 26 25 24 24 24 24 24 23 23 22 22 21 20 20 20 20 18 18 17 17 16 13 13 11
2005 2017 2022 2022 2018 2022 2022 1992 2022 2007 2022 2022 2022 1997 2022 1990 2022 2004 2012 2022 2016 2007 2022 2022 2015 2022 2022 2021 2021 2013
Pursuit 3070 Offshore ........................ $89,999 Axopar 28 T-Top ..................................$129,999 EdgeWater 280CC........................................... call EdgeWater 280CX ........................................... call Crownline 275 SS................................. $99,999 EdgeWater 262CC........................................... call Crevalle 26 HBW ............................................. call Alumaweld 25 Custom ...................... $29,900 EdgeWater 248CX ........................................... call Larson 248 LXI ...................................... $24,900 Crevalle 24 HCO.............................................. call Qwest LS 824................................................... call EdgeWater 245CC........................................... call Donzi 22ZX ............................................. $23,900 EdgeWater 230CC........................................... call Pursuit 2100 CC.................................... $12,900 Qwest LE 822 XRE CRUISE ......................... call Boston Whaler 210 Outrage............. $45,000 Regal 2000 Bowrider .......................... $30,000 Qwest LS 820 RLS .......................................... call Pioneer 197 Islander........................... $54,900 Lund 1950 Tyee Gran Sport............. $33,500 EdgeWater 188CC........................................... call Qwest Edge 818 CTR..................................... call EdgeWater 170CC ................................ $36,900 EdgeWater 170CC ........................................... call Qwest Edge 816 CTR..................................... call Boston Whaler 130SS......................... $24,999 Novurania 400 DL................................ $48,247 Walker Bay Generation 360 ..............$17,999
BAY MARINE’S BROKERAGE TEAM
Ron Durchin Illinois 847-980-4975
Gentre Vartan Illinois 312-656-4470
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DOOR COUNTY YACHTING CENTER STURGEON BAY, WI 920-743-6526
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F I V E L O C AT I O N S
BENETE AU P O W E R BO ATS AVAILABLE WINTER!
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STURGEON BAY: South First Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI, (920) 746-1912 • Martin Kelsey: (920) 559-0366, Martin@centerpointesales.com • Terry Godres: (920) 559-0730, Terry@centerpointesales.com • Tony Peot: (920) 493-4747, Tony@centerpointesales.com • MILWAUKEE: 700 S. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI, (888) 992-2487 • Tyler Wilkins: (414) 248-9668, Tyler@centerpointesales.com • KENOSHA: 21-56th Street, Kenosha, WI, (888) 992-2487 • Mike Montilino: (612) 419-3772, Mike@centerpointesales.com • WEST MICHIGAN: 430 W. 23rd St, Holland, MI • Brandon Ricci: (616) 405-1715, Brandon@centerpointesales.com
WWW.CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM OR CALL (888) 9-YACHTS
BROK E R AG E
1988 VANTARE 58 MY $224,500
1985 MAIORA 55 $139,000
2017 BENETEAU GT 46 $660,000
2021 REGAL 38 GRANDE COUPE $650,000
2021 NAUTICSTAR 2102 LEGACY $65,999
1992 OCEAN ALEXANDER 46 $229,900
2000 CHAPARRAL SIGNATURE 300 $46,500
1997 MARINE TRADER 34 $59,500
2009 SABRE 386 $199,000
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BROKERAGE BOATS 11’ 22’ 23’ 26’ 27’ 29’ 32’ 32’
2020 2021 1999 2003 2017 2008 1985 1988
Zodiac 2020 360 Yachtline DL NEO ....................................$23,999 Zodiac Open 7 NEO T-Top 250hp .......................................$94,900 Bayliner 2452 Ciera...........................................................$19,900 Seaswirl Striper 2601 Walkaround I/O.................................$45,000 Ranger Tugs R-27 Luxury Edition......................................$184,900 Hacker-Craft 29 Long Deck Gentleman’s Racer .................$139,900 Carver 3207 .....................................................................$30,000 O’Day 322 ........................................................................$24,500
32’ 32’ 33’ 36’ 41’ 43’ 46’ 56’
2000 2011 1991 1984 1971 2014 2002 1983
Cruisers Yachts 3075 Express ............................................$47,500 Legacy 32 MKIII...............................................................$165,000 Carver 33 Aft Cabin ...........................................................$43,900 Morgan 36........................................................................$26,900 Hatteras 41 Twin Cabin sale pending ...............................$60,000 Tiara Yachts 4300 Open...................................................$699,900 Hunter 466 .....................................................................$150,000 Hatteras 56 Motor Yacht ..................................................$299,900
FIND A COMPLETE LIST OF INVENTORY INCLUDING NEW, USED AND BROKERAGE BOATS AT WWW.REEDYACHTSALES.COM
GRAND HAVEN, MI • Brent Reed 616-402-0180 • Bob Lunt 616-843-1225 LASALLE, MI • Chuck Hutchins 734-497-3721 • Matthew Bolt 734-735-1948 RACINE, WI • Mark Derenne 414-651-3100
www.reedyachtsales.com
MAR I N E MAR K E T PL AC E
ADDED SAfEty At thE Dock & on thE wAtEr
great gifts!
Boarding Pole
Extra assistance boarding the boat. $79.99/$99.99
cAll Jim StEfAno
419-341-0432
TR IDENT
Burgee Holder wave that flag. $59.00
nautical cross
Quickly tie-off fenders and tenders. $79.99/$99.99
| www.nauticalcross.com
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SERVING BOAT BUYERS NATIONWIDE
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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON
DEALER/BROKERAGE ADVERTISING CONTACT: PATTI MCCLEERY TELEPHONE: 312-276-0610 x.21 PMCCLEERY@LAKELANDBOATING.COM
C L AS S I F I E D S
Advertise your boat, boat slip or property with us!
Contact us by DECEMBER 15 to get into our February, March, April and May 2022 issues!
2019 TIARA 38LS Triple 350 Yamaha, 200 hours, Helm Master and Seakeeper. Great condition. $629,000. Contact doubledproperties01@gmail.com. EXP 4/22
*N EW !*
2021 ZODIAC MEDLINE 580 New Medline 580 with a grey hull and deck. She has blue/teal cushions and black NEO tubes. The new Medline Series is one of our best sellers this year! Asking $47,900. Call Matt @ 734-735-1948. RYS
2017 RANGER TUGS R-27 LUXURY EDITION Volvo D3-220 hp, 64 hours. 100% freshwater, generator, air conditioning, full Garmin electronics. Asking $184,900 Call Brent @616-402-0180. RYS
*R ED UC ED !*
2008 HACKER-CRAFT 29 LONG DECK GENTLEMAN’S RACER 100% freshwater, one owner in excellent condition! Powered by Crusader 8.1 ltr. gas engine. Always kept in indoor heated storage in winter, and boat shed during summer. Includes 2017 Manning tandem axle paint steel trailer. Asking $139,900. Call Brent @ 616-842-8899. RYS
1999 HATTERAS 48 SPORTFISH This sportfish commands attention. She has been pampered in the Great Lakes for many years and shows extremely well. Her interior has been completely redone as well as recent replacement of the side view windows. $225,000. Contact Martin Kelsey at 920-5590366 or martin@centerpointesales.com. CNT 1995 MAINSHIP 370 MY Champ is a freshwater yacht with 377 hrs on big block 370-hp Marine Power inboards. Spacious interior with two private heads, master cabin head has a separate shower. Asking $84.995. Contact Mike Montilino at 612419-3772 or mike@centerpointesales.com. CNT
Owner found this boat in a Lakeland Boating classified ad almost 50 years ago! 1969 38’ CHRIS-CRAFT ROAMER Classic Chris-Craft Roamer. Aluminum hull, twin 427s, 6.5 gen. Asking $45,000. Leave message at 269-4693849 will return all calls, or email beachfrontii @aol.com. NOV21
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
2011 LEGACY 32 MKIII Full displacement pilothouse trawler. Custom-built in the USA, freshwater, one owner. Very well maintained. Asking $165,000. Call Matt @ 734-735-1948. RYS
2021 NAUTICSTAR 2102 LEGACY This 2102 Legacy is a needle in a haystack... 130 freshwater hours on its Yamaha 200 outboard make it perfectly turn-key and water ready, with no ‘break in’ period necessary! $65,999 Contact Joe Moede at 414793-0195 or joe@centerpointesales.com. CNT
TO ADVERTISE YOUR BOAT IN CLASSIFIEDS: Visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/CLASSIFIEDS for details and to submit your materials. Payments cannot be accepted online. We will contact you for payment once your ad proof is approved. Questions? Email Christy at CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM.
2014 SAILFISH 240CC Excellent condition. Full Raymarine electronics including autopilot, 300 hp Yamaha four stroke. Under 300 hrs. Located in Vermilion, OH. Asking $70,000. Email cblgolf62@gmail.com or call 440-864-2232 for more info. SEP21
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CLASSIC CRAFT
Coupe de Foude
Coupe de Foude is French for “love at first sight”. That is the name that my wife, Carol, picked for our 1931 Dart Silver Arrow Speed Boat. She is a 26-foot triple cockpit hull without an engine. The Dart Boat Company was located in Toledo, Ohio, and built custom runabouts up until the great recession. We purchased the boat from the late Jim Street. It took approximately three years of restoration by Mackie Boat Company in Algonac, Michigan, to bring her to a first-class show piece. —Pete and Carol Beauregard, Algonac, MI
ADD YOUR BOAT! Email KBUSH@
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
if you have a Classic Craft with a great story to share!
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PHOTO COURTESY OF PETE BEAUREGARD
1931 Dart Silver Arrow Speed Boat.
ADVE RTISE I N
CALL 800-331-0132 FOR MORE INFORMATION
