January 2023

PHOTO BY MISSY KOSZEGI

Plot Your Next Adventure

While we’re still in the midst of a deep freeze that those of us in the Great Lakes are accustomed to, that doesn’t stop us from dreaming of warmer days and plotting our summer boating adventures.

Cruisers are waking up to the charming port of Cheboygan, Michigan, on the shores of Lake Huron (p. 42). This northern Michigan town — just a hop, skip and a jump away from Mackinac Island — offers visitors tons of non-motorized, ORV and water trails; eclectic shops; a variety of dining experiences; and the entrance to the 38-mile-long Inland Waterway. There’s something here for everyone.

History buffs will be delighted to read about not one, but two Great Lakes destinations that cater to their interests. Discovery Harbour in Penetanguishene, Ontario, is a living history park where visitors can see reenactors in period costume, climb aboard two 1812 ship reproductions, and explore shoreside exhibits and demonstrations (p. 18). Meanwhile, the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven, Michigan, just reopened following a construction project that expanded its exhibition space. In addition to immersive exhibits, the museum offers visitors a wealth of information about Great Lakes maritime history, a collection of ships and rescue vehicles, art, marine artifacts and so much more (p. 38).

I hope these pages inspire you to plot that next adventure. Happy New Year!

CONTRIBUTORS

BRUCE KEMP

Bruce is a veteran boating journalist and photographer. His career spans more than 40 years covering everything from the America’s Cup to the Caribbean’s best “Dark and Stormy.” His work appears in numerous magazines and newspapers. He is the author of “Weather Bomb 1913” and “The Whales of Lake Erie.”

READ HIS STORY ON P. 18

CHUCK WARREN

Chuck is a lifelong boater with experience on the waters of the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean and the Great Lakes. During his 25-year marine industry career he has been an offshore powerboat racing team driver, chief engineer aboard a research vessel and captain of a sunset cruise. Currently a captain for hire in Holland, Michigan, Chuck lives on his 40-foot Sea Ray in the summer, while winters are split between the West Michigan lakeshore and wherever his 33-foot motorhome takes him.

READ HIS STORY ON P. 38

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

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

AREAS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE

Cheboygan, MI p. 42

Grand Haven, MI p. 48

Michigan Maritime Museum p. 38

KATH

Discovery Harbour p. 18

Lake Shore Boat Top Company p. 50

USITALO

Bi-peninsular Kath Usitalo grew up in Detroit and now enjoys life on Lake Michigan in the Upper Peninsula, where she writes about her home state, including three books about things to see and do in the U.P.

READ HER STORY ON P. 42

HHH

HHH

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LAKE LENS

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

COM. Please put “Lake Lens” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!

CANINE CREW

KOLBIE

Here is a picture of our dog, Kolbie, and our Sea Ray Sundancer 330 that we named after her. — Rick Simonton, Suttons Bay, MI

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!

Correction

In our November/December 2022 issue of the magazine, our “Reclaim the Platform” feature incorrectly captioned one of the photos (p. 45) as “Headlights.” The correct caption should be “LED Docking Lights.” We sincerely regret the error.

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 Nantucket red. One size. $24.95 + S&H. To order, visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/STORE.

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.

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, Glenn Hayes, Bruce Kemp, Kevin Koenig, Gary Kosiba, Capt. Frank Lanier, Capt. Tom Serio, Heather Steinberger, Kath Usitalo, Chuck Warren,

BUSINESS STAFF

National Sales: Mark Conway Regional Sales: Patti McCleery

Accounting: Marguerite Wristen

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE

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P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-504-8475

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President: Linda O’Meara

Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh

Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2023, 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.

event

JAN 1

New Year’s Day Parade Egg Harbor, WI

EGGHARBORDOORCOUNTY.ORG

Polar Bear Swim Jacksonport, WI

JACKSONPORTPOLARBEARCLUB.COM

JAN 1 – 7

Norpine Fat Bike Classic Lutsen, MN NORTHSHOREVISITOR.COM

JAN 6 – 8

SISU Ski Fest Ironwood, MI SISUSKIFEST.COM

JAN 6 – 15

Ohio RV and Boat Show 1 Columbus, OH

OHIORVANDBOATSHOW.COM

JAN 11 – 15

Progressive Chicago Boat Show 2 Chicago, IL CHICAGOBOATSHOW.COM

JAN 12 – 15

Camper, Travel & RV Show Grand Rapids, MI SHOWSPAN.COM/GRV

Progressive Cleveland 3 Boat Show Cleveland, OH

CLEVELANDBOATSHOW.COM

Ultimate Fishing Show Detroit Novi, MI SHOWSPAN.COM/UFD

JAN 19 – 22

Progressive Minneapolis Boat Show Minneapolis, MN MINNEAPOLISBOATSHOW.COM

JAN 20 – 22 & 25 – 29

Cincinnati Boat, Sport & Travel Show Cincinnati, OH CINCINNATIBOATSHOW.COM

Milwaukee Boat Show West Allis, WI SHOWSPAN.COM/MBS

JAN 20 – 29

Toronto International Boat Show Toronto, ON TORONTOBOATSHOW.COM

JAN 26 – 29

Grand Haven Winterfest Grand Haven, MI VISITGRANDHAVEN.COM

Green Bay RV & Camping Expo Green Bay, WI RESCHCOMPLEX.COM

JAN 27 – 28

Lake Superior Ice Festival Superior, WI LAKESUPERIORICEFESTIVAL.COM

Noquemanon Ski Marathon Marquette, MI NOQUEMANON.COM

JAN 28

Pure Ludington Brrrewfest Ludington, MI PURELUDINGTON.COM

St. Joe Winter Beer Fest St. Joseph, MI STJOETODAY.COM

OUTPERFORMER

All-out performance is what we’re all about. With ROTAX® engine packages rated up to 600 hp, Scarab is a leader in power, acceleration, and unmatched maneuverability. A ride down the lake quickly turns into a thrilling, you’d better hang on, experience. Never to be outdone, Scarab is the OUTPERFORMER.

powered by

Evoy Unveils 300-hp Electric Outboard System

Evoy has launched its prototype of the Outboard Storm, a 300-plus-hp electric outboard motor system with a 225 kW continuous power, making it the most powerful electric outboard on the water. In addition to the launch of this technology, Evoy also announced partnerships with three boat builders: Axopar, Goldfish and Iguana.

Together with Evoy, Axopar is launching an electric version of the Axopar 25; Iguana Yachts will launch its first fully electric amphibious and foiling boat fitted with a 300-hp Evoy electric outboard; and Goldfish and Evoy will launch a series of electric X10 (single installation) and 43 Ocean (twin installation) of the inboard 400-plus-hp.

For more information, visit EVOY.NO.

SCUTTLE

GREAT LAKES NEWS BOATS MUST-HAVE BUZZ EVENTS BUSINESS

Lakeland Boating contributor Susan R. Pollack won a Mark Twain award in the annual writing and photography contest sponsored by the Midwest Travel Journalists Association for her Port of Call feature on Mackinaw City, Michigan (from the July 2021 issue of Lakeland Boating). Congratulations, Susan!

Drones Launched in Lake Superior

In August 2022, two Saildrone uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) were launched in Lake Superior on a 25-day mission. The USVs, which have a zero-carbon footprint and operate virtually silently, carry sensors to measure fish distribution data around the clock. The Saildrones will enable U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists to better understand the

BUSINESS

effects of large vessel engine noise on fish sampling and catchability, and provide data on rainbow smelt, an invasive prey fish species.

This is the second year of a multi-year mission in the Great Lakes. In summer 2021, two Saildrone USVs were deployed from Holland, Michigan.

For more info, visit SAILDRONE.COM.

Walstrom Marine Acquires Grand Bay Marine

Michigan’s Walstrom Marine announced the acquisition of Grand Bay Marine as part of its ongoing effort to expand its operations across the Great Lakes region. Founded in 1997, Grand Bay Marine is owned and operated by Liz Carney and her family. With locations in Traverse City and Charlevoix, Grand Bay Marine has positioned itself as the country’s largest retailer of the Regal Boat brand.

Carney and her husband, Kevin, will assist in the ownership transition. Their daughter,

Rachael Milliman, will serve as general manager of the Grand Bay Marine Traverse City location. Tom Ervin, president of Walstrom Marine, will oversee the overall Grand Bay Marine business. Grand Bay Marine’s 38 employees will remain with the organization post-acquisition.

In addition to being a boat retailer, Grand Bay is a full-service marine dealership offering service, storage, parts and pro-shop gear from its showroom. Grand Bay focuses on premium sporting boats and offers

a wide range of brands, from Regal and Starcraft to Godfrey, Bayliner, Robalo and Berkshire. Grand Bay Marine also offers heated and cold indoor and outside storage during the winter months.

For more information, visit GRANDBAYMARINE.COM and WALSTROM.COM.

GREAT LAKES NEWS

EVENTS

2022 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Recap

According to organizers of the 63rd annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, there were more than 100,000 attendees, more than 1,000 exhibiting brands, and more than 1,300 boats on display at seven locations over the five-day event, held October 26 – 30, 2022. Here are a few of the new debuts that made a splash at the show!

Absolute’s Navetta 75 and 48 Coupe had their U.S. premieres, and the company also had a sneak peek of the new 52 Fly, which will make its debut at the Miami International Boat Show in February.

Limestone Boat’s Aquasport 2100CC is an electric boat powered by Vision Marine’s 180-hp-equivalent E-Motion electric outboard system.

Aquila teased two new upcoming models: The Aquila 42 Yacht and the impressive Aquila 47 Molokai.

Avikus NeuBoat by Hyundai showed off its autonomous navigation and docking systems. Visitors were allowed to get onboard and experience autonomous cruising first-hand.

Boston Whaler had its new 280 Dauntless on display, making its boat show debut.

Cruisers Yachts debuted its 50 GLS, the largest in the adventure-seeking GLS series of sport luxury bowriders. (Read our Boat Test on p. 30)

Formula’s 387 Center Console Fish and Sport models debuted at the boat show. (Read our Boat Test on the CCF on p. 34)

The Four Winns H6 had its grand reveal, and there was also a scale model on display of the TH36, Four Winns’ first-ever catamaran.

Galeon Yachts’ new 375 GTO (North American debut) and the 800 FLY (world debut) were on display.

Highfield had two show premieres: The new Sport 900 and Sport 760 Offshore RIBS. The other new models for 2023 include the Sport 700, Sport 660 and Sport 600.

Jeanneau DB/43 OB, NC 1295 Fly and Leader 10.5 CC made their North American debuts.

Mag Bay’s 43 Center Console is powered by triple Mercury 600-hp outboards and features a new, innovative hull design.

Maritimo showed off the M55 equipped with Scania’s 900-hp DI 13 diesels, and revealed more details about its new S75 and M75.

The MJM 4, a brand-new crossover day yacht, made its FLIBS debut.

Phenom Yachts is a new luxury center console boat brand that launched at FLIBS, debuting its new Phenom 37 and Phenom 34 yachts.

Pursuit revealed two new boats: Its new S 248, a feature-filled center console, and the OS 445 Offshore, the largest boat ever built by Pursuit.

Riviera had three Americas premieres: The 78 Motor Yacht; 4600 SY Platinum; and 465 SUV.

Sailfish’s new 312CC is a center console featuring the company’s sixth-generation Variable Degree Stepped (VDS) hull.

Part of Scout Boats’ bay boat lineup, the allnew 281 XSS is an inshore/offshore crossover that marks the third model Scout introduced in 2022.

Sea Ray’s new SLX 260 Outboard (with Mercury Marine Mercruiser power) and SLX 260 Surf models (with Bravo Four S forwardfacing drive) were both on display.

SŌLACE Boats showed off its new hybrid center console, the 30HCS.

Sunseeker’s luxury motoryachts, the 88 Yacht and Manhattan 68 Pacific, had their U.S. debuts.

The new Wellcraft 355 made its FLIBS debut, featuring triple Mercury or Yamaha engines, reaching speeds over 50 knots.

Boston Whaler

Mag Bay Riviera

Scout Sunseeker

Cruisers Yachts

Formula Boats

Galeon Yachts

Highfield

Jeanneau

Sailfish Debuts New 312 Center Console

Sailfish Boats’ new 312 CC checks all the boxes — from fishing to relaxing and cruising, it has everything you need while providing a safe, comfortable ride. Featuring the Sailfish sixth-generation Variable Degree Stepped hull, the 312 offers stability and performance powered by twin Mercury 300 or 350 Verados or twin Yamaha F300s. Constructed to Sailfish’s rigorous standards, the 312 features the Sailtech process, using materials like Kevlar, carbon fiber and Trevira for added strength and durability, while the profile and exterior maintain that timeless Sailfish look. Inside, a spacious interior features an unexpectedly large cockpit, thanks to the 9-foot, 9-inch beam. Recessed fold-out benches provide plenty of seating for entertaining while allowing for side-to-side fishing when the catch gets good, and a roomy head features ceilings over 6 feet tall with natural light. Multiple in-floor livewells and fishboxes in addition to built-in tackle storage ensure you have everything needed for a day of angling. A large console with an ergonomic dash completes the interior offerings, along with a bow perfect for fishing, relaxing or entertaining. Like the rest of the boat, it’s built to do it all.

To learn more, visit SAILFISHBOATS.COM.

Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society Uncovers 120-Year-Old Shipwreck

Correct Craft has acquired Indmar Marine Engines. Indmar will continue to operate independently at its headquarters in Millington, Tennessee, while continuing to supply its current boat building manufacturers and network of dealers.

In October 2022, the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society (GLSHS) announced the discovery of the 292-foot Whaleback vessel, Barge 129, found in Lake Superior 35 miles off Vermilion Point in 650 feet of water. Barge 129 was found alongside eight other wrecks in 2021 by the GLSHS in partnership with Marine Sonic Technology using Side Scan Sonar.

Barge 129 sank more than 120 years ago on October 13, 1902. It was in tow of the steamer Maunaloa when they ran into a powerful October storm. The heavy seas strained and eventually snapped the towline connecting the two ships. The wind and waves slammed the two ships together, with Maunaloa’s portside anchor ripping into Barge 129’s starboard side and causing the barge to sink.

When the Shipwreck Society put its ROV down on the wreck-site in 2021, it found that Barge 129 lay broken on the bottom, split into four to five big pieces and numerous small pieces.

“The whalebacks were pretty unusual ships,” says Shipwreck Society Executive Director Bruce Lynn. “When we had the ROV on it, you could clearly see the distinctive bow with a part of the towline still in place — that was an incredible moment!”

Visit SHIPWRECKMUSEUM.COM.

GREAT LAKES NEWS

Great Lakes-Based Organization Launches Whitefish Initiative

A new campaign aims to demonstrate how commercially caught Great Lakes whitefish can be more fully used and help raise fish value. The Conference of Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers — a Chicago-based organization representing the Governors of the Great Lakes States and the Canadian Premiers of Ontario and Québec — launched its 100% Whitefish Initiative.

Dan Eichinger, director of the Michigan DNR, kicked off the initiative with a “head to tail” whitefish tasting organized by noted Detroit-area Executive Chef Doug Hewitt, in collaboration with Motor City Seafood Company.

The organization’s goal is to demonstrate how 100% of a whitefish can be used for different purposes and beyond just food. Organizers believe that a 100% fish strategy holds tremendous promise for the Great Lakes St. Lawrence region to more completely utilize caught fish, drive greater economic returns, create jobs and help develop rural economies.

More information is available at GSGP.ORG.

North Sails and Sea Bags Launch Sustainability Partnership

Sea Bags — the Maine-based designer and manufacturer of bags, totes and accessories made from repurposed sails — has partnered with North Sails, the sailmaking industry leader. The two brands have teamed up on a sustainability initiative to divert retired sails from the landfill and pave the way for the sailing community to collectively reduce waste.

The first step in the non-exclusive partnership kicked off at the end of 2021 by completing a sweep of all of North Sails’ North American company-owned lofts. In the first four months of 2022, together North Sails and Sea Bags have saved approximately 5 tons of sail cloth from the landfill.

Launching summer 2022, the North Sails and Sea Bags initiative encourages sailors to donate their old sails at any North Sails loft in North America. With 11 loft locations across the United States and Canada — including in Chicago, Detroit, Milwaukee and Toronto — North Sails provides easy access to participate in this meaningful program. Sails accepted in the North Sails x Sea Bags repurposing program include 3DiTM composite, Dacron, nylon spinnakers and intact laminates.

The North Sails lofts in North America are now accepting old sails for drop off. Find your nearest loft on NORTHSAILS.COM.

GREAT LAKES NEWS

PHOTO

The Nimbus T11 is the Perfect Dayboat

The T11 by the Swedish boat builder Nimbus provides a great platform for a day out on the water, thanks to a large lounge area with adjustable seating arrangements, multiple sunbeds, an outdoor kitchen, gyro stabilization, tons of stowage for gear and toys, and an impressive amount of deck space, all wrapped up in a contemporary Scandinavian design. The T11 is a 40-foot, 7-inch long walk-around for excursions with plenty of space for up to 12 people to socialize or take part in activities.

“We are seeing a clear trend in boat usage right now which is characterized by more effective utilization over shorter periods of time,” says Jonas Göthberg, commercial manager of Nimbus Boats Sweden AB. “This often corresponds to day trips or weekend getaways with an overnight stay where boat users can relax and have a good time together with their family or friends. The new T11 is designed to meet these needs in full. It offers multiple opportunities for socializing, relaxation and activities onboard. There is space for four people to stay overnight in two spacious berths, and the boat has been consciously packed with functional features for a superbly comfortable life at sea.”

The boat comes standard with twin Mercury Verado V8 300-hp engines, but can be fitted with a triple configuration. With standard power, the T11 can reach speeds over 40 knots, and has cruising speeds of 20-40 knots.

For more details, visit NIMBUS.SE.

Mercury Marine Introduces Industry-First V10 Outboards

Mercury Marine has introduced the industry’s first-ever V10 outboard with the official launch of its 5.7L 350 and 400-hp Verado outboard engines. The new V10 engines are the quietest and smoothest in their class, running 45% quieter than a leading competitor at cruise. The new platform features the outboard industry’s first V10 naturally aspirated powerhead, as well as an all-new hydrodynamic gearcase that’s engineered to improve performance and durability across multiple applications while also maximizing fuel efficiency.

“The all-new Mercury V10 Verado outboards are exactly what boaters have been asking for in a 350and 400-hp platform,” says Chris Drees, Mercury Marine president. “They are powerful, smooth and quiet. They have many of the same fuel efficiencyenhancing features that are synonymous with our high-horsepower lineup. They also deliver the same kind of premium boating experience that has made Verado outboards legendary.”

For more information, visit

SIONYX Nightwave

This new ultra-low-light marine digital camera system guides boaters of all skill levels safely through any maritime environment. Built around the brand’s proprietary Black Silicon BSI CMOS sensor, Nightwave allows mariners to easily spot hazards and debris in moonless starlight without additional illumination. The night vision camera is IP67 waterproof and shock rated, and can be integrated into any vessel’s electronics by connecting to major brand MFDs via the analog video output. $1,595 AT SIONYX.COM

GREAT GEAR

MUST-HAVE GOODIES AND GADGETS FOR EVERY BOATER

“The Boat Galley Cookbook”

Featuring “800 everyday recipes and essential tips for cooking aboard,” “The Boat Galley Cookbook” is a must-have for cruisers. With 20,000+ miles of cruising combined between authors Carolyn Shearlock and Jan Irons, this cookbook is designed to help boaters every step of the way — from meal prep and equipping your galley to providing easy recipes with readily available ingredients.

$31.98 (FOR PAPERBACK) AT AMAZON.COM

Pina Pro Rechargeable LED Table Lamp

Line Caddy Docksider 2.0

Need a hand while at the dock? With the redesigned Line Caddy Docksider, the extended 6-foot-long arm will keep your docklines at arms reach at all times. This product keeps your dock neat and tidy. Easily mounts vertically or horizontally on any flat surface with four screws and adjusts through 90 degrees. $74.99 AT LINECADDY.COM

Jabsco Self-Contained Oil Changing System

Quickly change your boat’s oil with this self-contained system, which will extract up to 50-weight oil at a temperature of 70 degrees through the engine’s dipstick tube in less than five minutes. The powerful suction pump features an integral on/ off switch. Features a 14-quart bucket (so two typical V-8 engines can be serviced with just one trip to the boat), 6-foot power leads and an 8-foot heat-resistant Tefl on dipstick probe. $214.99 AT DEFENDER.COM

West Marine Men’s Third Reef Jacket

Bring a clean glow to your boat’s cabin with the Pina Pro Rechargeable LED Table Lamp from Zafferano America. A wide base made of die-cast aluminum acts as a sturdy anchor for the piece. An inductive charging base makes the lamp wireless and portable, allowing it to spread its even, bright layer of light throughout the cabin with ease. Available in five colors including dark gray, rust, white, sand and black.

$149 AT LUMENS.COM

layered foul weather jacket features

Delivering ultimate performance for boaters in extreme marine conditions, this lightweight, windproof, waterproof and breathable multilayered foul weather jacket features a durable nylon shell and sealed seams to prevent rain and spray from seeping in. The tricot mesh lining is breathable and quick drying so you’ll stay comfortable as your activity level increases. Elastic cord adjusters draw the hem of this jacket tight across the bottom to keep wind and water out while the hidden waist adjuster provides a snug fit. $139.99 AT WESTMARINE.COM

Discovery Harbour

Discovery Harbour is one of those romantic, historical places that should be on your travel bucket list. Situated on the shores of Georgian Bay in Penetanguishene, Ontario, the site is more than a roadside attraction — it’s an important part of Great Lakes history for both Canadians and Americans.

Open from May 20 to September 2, Discovery Harbour is home to two 1812 ship reproductions — HMS Tecumseth and HMS schooner Bee — as well as period reconstructions of a gig, a jolly boat, a skiff, and a number of interesting buildings and displays. The two ships are open to visitors every day (although day sails aboard them have not taken place since before the pandemic), and there are dozens of ongoing shoreside exhibits and demonstrations ranging from black powder and blacksmithing to period cooking. Prior to the pandemic, Discovery Harbour often played host to lavish 1812 reenactments featuring attacks on both land and sea. As of this writing, things are just starting to get back to normal and the usual reenactments have yet to be planned.

It will take visitors nearly a full day to see all the attractions that Discovery Harbour has to offer. Visitors who want to know more about life in the early 19th century can explore the HMS Tecumseth Centre, which contains the actual remains of the ship recovered from the lakebed in

1953. There are also hundreds of period artifacts — everything from rum bottles to powder horns.

To get an idea of what life was like in the wilderness — don’t forget, the Great Lakes were the wilderness — take a stroll through the Officers’ Quarters. Stuck far from home with light duties, the officers lived a life of semi-luxury compared to the sailors and soldiers; they had comfortable rooms, and put on theater performances and sporting events.

Captain Roberts’ Table — the restaurant named for the base commander, Captain Samuel Roberts, from 1820 onward — is a great place to rest the legs and sample cuisine from the period or modern-day fare. The restaurant will be taking reservations for the coming season starting early this spring.

Living historians (reenactors) in period costume greet visitors to the site, guide them through it and answer questions. They will take you aboard the reproductions of HMS Tecumseth and HMS Bee for dockside tours. Both ships are undergoing refits over the winter and will be in Bristol fashion this spring.

While you’re in the neighborhood, you might want to visit Ste. Marie Among the Hurons, another historic site lodged on the shores of Georgian Bay, where a number of Jesuit missionaries met their doom. There is a complete village, a la Nouvelle France, showing what the earliest European settlements in the Great Lakes basin were like. Save your ticket from Discovery Harbour; with it you get half off the admission to Ste. Marie.

The Penetanguishene Naval Establishment

Discovery Harbour was originally called the Penetanguishene Naval Establishment, and it was renamed only recently. The Naval Establishment was home to two warships: Tecumseth and HMS Newash, along with supply schooners Bee, Wasp and Mosquito. In its heyday, more than 20 ships and 70 people called this port home. Although the Treaty of Ghent

Step back in time and explore this living history site on the shores of Georgian Bay.

Discovery Harbour is a hands-on experience where visitors are encouraged to try everything from swabbing the deck to cooking period meal on 18th century stoves.

ended hostilities between the United States and British Canada in 1815, tensions were not so quickly forgotten. It wasn’t until the RushBagot Agreement was ratified in 1818 that warships were banned on the Great Lakes. The battlewagons belonging to the Brits were turned into supply ships and eventually “put in orders” — mothballed. The 124-foot Tecumseth sank in 1828 from lack of maintenance.

Dominance in naval warfare on the Great Lakes was always going back and forth. On Lake Ontario, the Brits did well. At the Battle of Lake Erie, they got their clocks cleaned.

Penetanguishene Bay was first scouted by Sir John Graves Simcoe, governor of Upper Canada (British Canada) in 1793. During the war, the Royal Navy established a dockyard on Penetanguishene Bay, which went largely unused. The British Army arrived in 1834, turning the base into a combined forces establishment. The base was a secret, to be kept away from the American forces at all costs (although this probably wasn’t that successful). It was maintained for the use of the Royal Navy until 1856 when the British government decided they couldn’t afford to maintain these wilderness outposts and closed all of them, including Penetanguishene Naval Establishment.

Charting the shores

The legacy of the Naval Establishment lives on in this incredibly beautiful stretch of Georgian Bay, and the work of officers like Sir John Franklin and Sir Henry Bayfield in history.

Franklin, of the famous lost Arctic expedition, wasn’t attached to the base, but his second Arctic expedition — to explore the Arctic Ocean via the Mackenzie River — left from here by canoe in 1825.

Lt. Henry Bayfield was responsible for much of the hydrographic work on the Canadian side of the Great Lakes. In 1820, using pulling boats and lead lines, Bayfield charted the north side of Lake Erie

and the eastern shores of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay. The Naval Establishment was his winter headquarters. Bayfield’s soundings and plotting were so accurate that today his surveys are still used by the Canadian Hydrographic Services for its charts.

As important as it was, the Penetanguishene Naval Establishment was allowed to decline and almost disappear until the 1960s when a burst of nationalism brought on by the country’s centennial generated renewed interest.

Discovery Harbour is easily accessible by boat, and there are numerous places to tie up in Penetanguishene and Midland. It makes a great day off the boat before heading up Georgian Bay or going south on the Trent-Severn Waterway. H

Visitors are treated to lavish reenactments on land and sea (middle). Watch the Discovery Harbour website for news about reenactments this coming summer. Dine at Captain Roberts’ Table (bottom left). Living historians (bottom right) are on hand to illuminate the history of the Naval Establishment, as well as answer questions and put on live demonstrations.

(Top left) Built in the 1830s the stone Officers’ Quarters is the only original building left at Discovery Harbour. (Top right) Schooner Bee, a historic reproduction of the original ship that serviced the Penetanguishene Naval Establishment as a supply vessel, cruises by the waterfront, while HMS Tecumseth is berthed at the dock in front of the HMS Tecumseth Centre.

Inflatable PFD Maintenance Checklist

Extend the life of your inflatable life jacket.

When it comes to comfort, it’s hard to beat an inflatable life jacket. That wearability means a boater is more likely to wear a PFD (personal flotation device) while enjoying the water, which is the end game when it comes to life jackets and safety.

To keep your inflatable gear in peak condition, make sure to conduct routine checks. The goal of maintenance checks is to ensure all parts of your inflatable life jacket (shell, bladder, inflation mechanism and CO2 cartridge) are in serviceable condition. Here are a few tips:

Each time before use

□

Visually inspect the unit for signs of abrasion, rips, tears, punctures, stitching failure, etc. Check that all buckles, straps and hardware are in serviceable condition.

□ If equipped with a service indicator, verify that it’s "green." An indicator reading "red" means the mechanism is damaged, has been activated or is incorrectly installed.

□ Inspect the auto inflation system (if so equipped) and verify that it’s armed. There are two main types: Hydrostatic (pressure sensing) and bobbin type (water soluble) auto inflation systems. If the unit has a hydrostatic inflator, verify that it’s not expired. If it’s a bobbin type, verify that the white “pill” is intact and the unit is within its expiration date. If there’s a date of manufacture provided but no expiration date, replace per the manufacturer’s recommendation. This is typically two to three years for bobbins and three to five years for hydrostatic inflators.

□ Verify that the CO2 cartridge is free from corrosion and is firmly installed.

□ Check the oral inflation tube, verifying that the dust cap on the end of the tube is in place.

□ Check that the manual inflation pull tab is properly positioned and is easily accessible.

□ Verify all zippers are operational (with pull tabs in the ready position) and that all hook and loop (aka Velcro) closures are aligned properly.

□ If the unit is a combination PFD and safety harness, inspect the harness and crotch and leg straps for condition and proper alignment.

□ Inspect and test the operation of any ancillary equipment (strobe light, whistle, etc.).

Every two months

□ Fully inflate the PFD using the oral inflation valve and allow it to sit overnight (16 to 18 hours). A noticeable loss of firmness indicates a leak, in which case the unit must be returned to the manufacturer for inspection and servicing. Before returning, however, first check the oral inflation valve (located at the end of the oral inflation tube) as these sometimes stick open or seal improperly.

□ With the PFD inflated, test the inflation tube by immersing it in water, being careful to keep the auto inflator dry. If bubbles leak from the valve, remove from the water, deflate the PFD and orally re-inflate again (this may help the valve seal properly). Test the inflator again, and if it continues to leak, return the PFD to the manufacturer for repair.

□ If no leaks are noted, deflate the PFD by turning the inflation tube cap upside down and pressing it against the inflation valve (to open it) and gently squeezing the bladder until all air has been removed. Once deflated, repack the PFD per the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring that manual activation pull-tab lanyard is accessible and where it should be.

Annual inspection

□ Open up the PFD, hand wash in warm water using mild soap, and rinse with freshwater (being careful to keep the auto inflator dry). Never dry clean your inflatable or use harsh chemicals (bleach, ammonia, etc.) to clean it. After washing, hang it on a plastic coat hanger and allow it to air dry. Never dry by applying direct heat.

□ Once the PFD is dry, inspect the shell (cover material), webbing and stitching for damage, deterioration or seam failure.

□ Access, remove and inspect the CO2 cartridge for corrosion or other issues. Reinstall following the instructions, being sure not to overtighten it.

□ Conduct the two-month inflation and leak test.

□ Test the whistle and strobe operation (if equipped). Verify battery expiration dates and replace if expired.

□ Repack the unit per the manufacturer’s directions.

□ Record the annual inspection in permanent ink on the PFD service record label. ★

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.

LIFE JACKET PHOTO COURTESY OF WATER SPORTS FOUNDATION; DETAIL SHOT BY CAPT. FRANK LANIER

Before wearing an inflatable life jacket, ensure that the service indicator (if equipped) is "green," not "red."

Maritime Mobile Service Identity

For decades, sailors have utilized the worldwide Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) with digital protocols for routine and distress-hailing signals on radio frequencies. With designated channels for specialized calling, it became easier to identify emergencies from non-emergency calls. In the U.S., channel 16 was designated and continues to hail the Coast Guard for assistance. Boaters monitoring channel 16 can assist as well.

In 1999, Digital Selective Calling (DSC) was added by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a radio call for radio checks, routine position, and group calls to and from another vessel equipped with a DSC transceiver over channel 70, also monitored by the Coast Guard. More importantly, safety protocols may be spoken by issuing a verbal Pan Pan, Securité or Mayday with an explanation.

An additional feature is an emergency distress button. Pressing it sends the boat’s GPS location to the Coast Guard or other boats within the transmission range. When activated, a piercing alarm notifies nearby boats and encourages assistance before the Coast Guard arrives.

Further, you can send a DSC distress alert with a specific distress nature. First, determine the nature of the distress by searching the radio’s menu and press the selection: Undesignated, fire, flooding, collision, grounding, capsizing, sinking, adrift, abandoning, piracy or MOB. Press enter and hold the distress key until the alert is transmitted. The radio’s manual also shows other capabilities and scenarios. The distress button is for emergencies only. Pressing the button as a test is an illegal false alarm, sending the Coast Guard an unnecessary rescue signal, and may result in fines and judicial charges.

Why add MMSI?

What if the boat drifts with an unconscious captain?

Adding a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) enhances search and rescue, and under normal conditions the signal range is five nautical miles. The MMSI supplements DSC on fixed and handheld radios, using a nine-digit number that identifies the boat and the owner’s personal information. It identifies ship earth stations, coast stations and coast earth stations. It records the time of distress, the GPS is continuously updated (even while drifting) and it will continue to send a signal.

MMSI qualifications

1. The fixed radio must also have DSC.

2. The boat is registered/documented in the U.S.

3. There is no other transmitting equipment besides VHF or AIS.

4. The vessel is used in domestic U.S. waters.

5. The captain does not have or plan to obtain a Ship Station License.

6. It may be a recreational boat, towboat or tug under 600 hp, or a state or local government vessel, but not owned by a federal agency.

7. Captains not meeting general MMSI qualifications should contact the FCC at 877-480-3201 to obtain an MMSI. And, for U.S. Great Lakes boaters wanting to enter Canadian ports, file Form 605 through the FCC to obtain a Ship Station License that goes with the MSSI.

It doesn’t matter how many high-frequency radios you have onboard. The radios belong to the boat and the boat can have only one MMSI number, which is held confidential.

To register for an MMSI, check the radio’s manual or visit WIRELESS.FCC.GOV/SERVICES , America’s Boating Club (ABC) (USPS.ORG/PHP/MMSI_NEW) or BoatUS (BOATUS.COM/MMSI). In Canada, an MMSI can be obtained from Industry Canada at IC.GC.CA/ EPIC/SITE/SMT-GST.NSF/EN/SF01032E.HTML.

Programming the radio

For the DSC to work, the MMSI number must be inputted into the radio and any other high-frequency radio with digital capacity, AIS or INMARSAT telephone. Follow the radio’s directions carefully. The MMSI number can be input once. To change the number, the radio must be returned to the factory.

Forget your MMSI number? On your fixed mount or handheld VHS radio, scroll down to the menu, select MMSI/PO Info, and the number will be displayed. Write it down to give to friends or use a label maker and add it to your onboard information. To contact another MMSI, the radio’s menu has a “phone book” of other boater’s numbers.

When selling a boat, the original owner cancels their information, and the new owner applies for another MMSI. A handheld radio’s MMSI — whether it goes with the seller or buyer — is also canceled, and a new one is applied for. ★

Do I need it and how do I use it?

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.

There’s an App for That

The best smartphone boating apps.

Smartphones are an invaluable and capable tool.

If you are like my teenage daughter, you always have it with you. So why not load it with some apps that will make your time on the water safer, more fun and less stressful? Want to plan your route, find dock space, check weather conditions, find a rental boat or update your electronics? Well, there’s an app for that — and so much more.

United States Coast Guard

The United States Coast Guard app would be helpful for any boater. You can look up boating safety laws, find boating requirements such as safety equipment for your size and type of craft, and research resources for any state you may be boating in. You can request a Vessel Safety Check and file a float plan with personal contacts. The app allows access to weather data from the nearest NOAA buoy, and you can look up the rules of the road for navigating the waters you are on. The app is also an easy way to report navigation hazards, pollution and suspicious activity.

Navionics Boating

With a free trial and differing subscriptions based on location, this app offers a wide array of constantly updated charts: Nautical charts, sonar charts (bathymetric charts with 1-foot detail) and unaltered NOAA charts. By subscribing, you also receive overlay functions, such as satellite imagery, relief shading with a clear and easy-tounderstand view of the bottom structure and sonar imagery displaying bottom hardness. There is also an auto-guidance feature allowing for dock-to-dock navigation planning, as well as weather, wind and tide information. This comprehensive app is updated daily, has community edits, enables sharing of information and trips with other boaters, and can sync with certain plotters. Syncing allows the transfer of routes, waypoints, auto-routing and more.

view and transfer charts, perform software updates, transfer and view waypoints and routes, and access the Active Captain Community. It can also function as a remote for certain Garmin displays. You can purchase the latest chart updates, upload them to your display and plan your day on the water from the app. If you purchase and install the Garmin ONDECK HUB, you can even track your vessel and control switches onboard with text alerts and notifications.

BoatUS

Every boater should have towing coverage, and those who have BoatUS can take full advantage of the BoatUS app. You can request a tow, with your GPS position automatically sent to the closest dispatch center. The app gives users access to boating forecasts up to five days in advance, with a warning for small craft advisories or severe weather. You can find marinas, boatyards, marine stores and tackle shops that offer discounts to members and can display your membership card when needed. Users can also renew their memberships and manage insurance coverage with BoatUS and Geico. The app can notify friends of your location via text, email or social media.

Boatsetter

If you don’t own a boat, are traveling to a new boating area, or would like to rent or charter, then Boatsetter is the app for you. Known to some as the “Airbnb of boating,” this popular app will help you quickly find a boat rental, charter or on-water event within your requirements and budget. From small boats to luxury yachts, this app will put you in direct contact with peer-to-peer boat and charter rentals in the areas that interest you. Easy to use, options are extensive and tailored to your search and price range.

Dockwa

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 .

Active Captain

Marine electronics manufacturers are developing and offering apps to interface with their onboard systems to facilitate ease of use and complement the features of those displays. One of the best examples of this type of app is Active Captain, which is a must-have if you own a compatible Garmin multifunction display. Once paired with your Garmin chartplotter, you can

Take the hassle out of reserving slips and moorings for your next adventure with the Dockwa app. This free app allows boaters to view marinas (photos, amenity lists, etc.) and book in advance. Dockwa has an ever-growing list of hundreds of marinas and yacht clubs in the Great Lakes and beyond. All in-app booking is free to the user with no added fees. There are also plenty of reviews, so you can see other boaters’ experiences at locations that interest you. ★

PHOTO BY GLENN HAYES

Be the Change

With a little research, you can incorporate “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” into your boating lifestyle.

The second season of “Down to Earth with Zac Efron” recently made its debut on Netflix, and my daughter couldn’t wait. She had the date marked on her calendar, and as soon as the new season dropped, she was ready.

I’m sure Efron has something to do with the show’s appeal for my teenager, but he isn’t the only highlight. According to a 2021 Deloitte study, protecting the environment is the No. 1 concern for Gen Z, above unemployment and health care.

My daughter cares deeply. She quizzed me about “the old days,” when we threw metal, glass and paper into the regular trash. We talked about plastics and the amount of waste we generate each day (5.91 pounds per American, according to the EPA). Encouraged by hosts Efron and Darin Olien, we’ve been exploring what additional changes we might be able to make.

While my husband tends to our kitchen garden and my daughter learns more about which types of plastics our waste management service accepts, I’ve found myself wondering: Can we embrace the idea of “reduce, reuse, recycle” in our boating life as well?

The answer is a resounding yes. It might take a little digging, but quite a few companies are going the extra mile to show Gen Z — and the rest of us — that the old-school, single-use consumer culture isn’t the only way.

Synthetic decking

While I was familiar with Akron, Ohio-based PlasTEAK and its synthetic teak for the marine industry, I hadn’t fully realized what a trailblazing company it was. Nearly 30 years ago, founder Bill Gribble saw a bench made from recycled plastic lumber and thought it would be a good solution for his boat’s swim platform. And so began the family business for Gribble and his wife, Eve.

“I was in the printing business and called on a plastic lumber manufacturer,” Gribble recalls. “I saw a plastic lumber bench that had open slots like a swim platform. I asked if they could make me one that was 8-by-24 feet, taper the ends, and make the cedar color that looks like teak. I had enough money in a line of credit to get a booth at the 1995 Cleveland Boat Show. We had people three deep at our booth for 10 days, sold one platform, and have never stopped.”

Today, PlasTEAK offers marine-grade interior flooring, swim platforms, bow pulpits, outdoor furniture and more. The company makes all its recycled plastic products using high-density polyethylene primarily derived from plastic milk jugs. To give you an idea of the impact, roughly 3,200 jugs go into an 8-foot picnic table.

Not only are all PlasTEAK products made with recycled plastic, they are also fully recyclable. They’re long-lasting, require little to no maintenance, and do not leech toxins into the marine environment.

“In the beginning, no one much cared if the material was recycled,” Gribble says. “It was nice, but mostly it was a whole lot less maintenance. It stood up to abuse, could be repaired, and is actually less slippery when it’s wet. The recycled part is more desirable now, but the rest is still true!”

And, if you’re interested in exterior synthetic decking, sister company PlasDECK can help.

“On the PlasTEAK side, we buy from the plastic lumber manufacturers and are basically plastic carpenters,” Gribble explains. “On the PlasDECK side, we extrude our own product, fabricate into flooring and recycle every bit of material into our EcoSeries and Reveal products. Or, sell to a recycler.

“Plastic is a wonderful material and needs to be reused,” he adds. “I hate seeing plastic bottles on a beach when I know they have another life in a platform or table, or a hundred other products.”

Footwear

If you’re looking for traditional boat shoes, Sperry offers the SeaCycled collection. The company notes that, wherever possible, the shoes in this collection incorporate materials that are more environmentally friendly than their conventional counterparts.

What does that mean? Think recycled canvas, leather and rubber. In the case of the canvas, Sperry takes clear plastic bottles and other plastic waste and uses them instead of virgin polymers to manufacture its polyester yarns. The company notes that, on average, it takes the equivalent of 12 plastic bottles to make one pair of shoes.

For its reclaimed leather, Sperry has a tannery partner that collects scraps, shreds them, and combines them with a polyurethane synthetic

PlasTEAK bow pulpit (top) and Sperry’s SeaCycled collection (bottom).

binder to create a leather fiber substrate. The result? Less leather in the landfill.

They’re keeping rubber out of the landfill also, thanks to using recycled devulcanized and regrind rubber in its outsoles. What’s more, Sperry is continuing to reduce its water usage and its packaging. It also reveals it would like to see 50% of its products fall under the SeaCycled banner by 2024.

Sperry is in good company. In manufacturing its Flyknit running shoes, Nike has lowered the volume of material waste by 60%, and it incorporates six recycled plastic bottles into each pair of Flyknit shoes.

Adidas is doing its part, as well. In 2020, more than half of the polyester used in its products came from recycled plastic waste. It reports that, in 2024, it will “dedicate itself to only using recycled polyester in the manufacturing of its garments.”

Outdoor gear

Speaking of garments, we boaters are always on the lookout for new outdoor gear. After all, we spend a significant amount of our free time on the water — sometimes in less than desirable weather.

Check out Patagonia. Three decades ago, this company was using recycled polyester from plastic bottles to make outdoor clothing, and they haven’t lost steam. At press time, Patagonia reported that 94% of its lines use recycled materials of some kind, including polyester, nylon, cotton, down, cashmere and wool. The materials come from plastic bottles, manufacturing waste and old Patagonia clothing items. One line, called the NetPlus, is even made from recycled fishing nets.

Another great option is Cotopaxi. While it’s already known for its commitment to sustainability, the company has announced that it is committed to “creating all our products using repurposed, recycled and responsible materials by 2025.”

Cotopaxi already offers “The Repurposed Collection,” in which it repurposes fabric, buckles, thread and zippers, and gives employees creative control over the final look. These backpacks, satchels and fanny packs each have a limited run. In other words, when they’re gone, they’re gone.

Then there’s Looptworks, which has been dedicated to recovering excess textiles (primarily from the fashion industry), millions of pounds of which would otherwise be headed for the landfill or incinerator. Instead, they’re diverted into high-quality upcycled products such as apparel, bags and accessories, or downcycled into home insulation or energy. Looptworks makes products available for purchase through its own website. It

also works with a variety of partners, from Patagonia and Adidas to Billie Eilish and Jason Mraz.

Sea Bags, a company that designs nautical bags and totes made from recycled sails, has reportedly saved more than 700 tons of sail cloth from the landfill since 1999. The company also recently partnered with North Sails, which produces sails for racing and cruising, to keep retired sails from the landfill.

All the extras

Boaters love to customize their onboard experiences, bringing items onboard that reflect their interests and how they prefer to spend their recreational time. Cruisers, in particular, outfit their vessels with add-ons such as kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and bicycles.

Although it’s not available in this country yet, keep your eye out for the German Igus:bike. Parent company Igus has created a bicycle that is more than 90% plastic, with the majority coming from recycled plastic waste.

Igus says it views the world’s plastic waste as a resource, with the potential to help replace linear economic models with circular ones. Another major plus: This bike won’t rust.

Most of us enjoy entertaining onboard, so coolers and koozies are usually on the packing list as well. Igloo now offers ECOCOOL coolers, which it says are the world’s first hard-side coolers made with post-consumer recycled plastic. The company also features Repreve lunch totes and Packable Puffer cooler bags, all made with post-consumer plastic bottles, as well as RECOOL, the first 100% biodegradable, compostable and recyclable cooler.

Once you pull your cold beverages out of the cooler, they won’t be left out. Check out the Eco Coolie koozies from EnviroPromo, which are made from recycled water bottles.

There’s probably a whole lot more out there. With each new generation, we’re becoming more aware of the risks to our beautiful planet. While the challenges can seem enormous, it’s inspiring to know we can do our part, little by little — and enjoy our boating life along the way. ★

HEATHER STEINBERGER is an award-winning writer/editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 25 years.

Patagonia NetPlus collection

Sea Bags

Looptworks

Aquila 54 Yacht

The coolest cat.

When people think of Aquila Power Catamarans, many positive qualities come to mind: Cruisability, livability and versatility. To that end, this new 54 Yacht is an excellent example of what Aquila is all about.

This yacht falls in the middle of the brand’s model range. The twin-hull setup puts this Aquila far ahead of any comparably long monohull in terms of both stability and interior volume.

“Space is No. 1 with this model,” says Alain Raas, Aquila brand manager at MarineMax. “She has lot of interior volume, and the versatility is incredible with the SkyLounge option on the flybridge.” An open version is also available.

“The boat also comes in a three-, four- or five-cabin version, with the three-cabin model as the base,” Raas continues. “Most clients elect to go with the four-cabin version from a private ownership perspective.”

Regardless of the layout, the 54 Yacht comes with three engine options: Twin 380-hp Volvo Penta D6s (standard), twin 480-hp Volvo Penta D6s (optional) and twin 550-hp Cummins QSB6.7s. Aquila has been seeing about a 70/30 split in favor of the Volvo Pentas, and says that engine choices tend to track across geographical lines.

Those powerplants push along a semi-planing hull with twin bulbous bows. Raas says the bulbs act like a basketball when sunk underwater, popping back to the surface quickly, and in effect creating a very smooth ride for this mid-sized catamaran. “It’s a great boat in a swell,” he says, “and the bulbous bow lengthens the waterline, which of course helps with efficiency.”

The 54 Yacht is a boat with lots to choose from and lots to like depending on her intended use. And with current industry giant MarineMax selling them, you can be sure to see lots of this model somewhere near you very soon. ★

Beneteau Gran Turismo 45

French connection.

From French boat building giant Beneteau comes a new express cruiser that has some exciting features that will put other boats in her class on notice. The Gran Turismo 45 immediately grabs the eye with a slightly curved sheerline that plays well with a lowprofile superstructure, which includes a hardtop that swoops aft over the cockpit. The impression is one of a boat that was built for on-the-water fun.

That hardtop has a massive retractable sunroof built into it that combines with the large salon windows to bathe the yacht’s interior in natural light. An electric bay window at the aft bulkhead opens up to a cockpit dominated by a sunpad for three that is flanked on either side by an entrance onto the boat leading up from the hydraulic swim platform.

That swim platform of course is super convenient for getting toys (or humans) in and out of the water. A tender garage in this space can also hold a small dinghy, or perhaps more likely act as a highly

functional stowage area. Lift up the top of the tender garage to reveal a neatly concealed grilling station.

Down below, this Gran Turismo has a rarity in its class — a full-beam primary suite amidships with a double berth and walkaround space. This is a feature that makes her an excellent option for overnights, and which is sure to drive customer satisfaction and loyalty. What owner, after all, doesn’t want a best-in-class place to sleep?

At full speed this boat lives up to her racy moniker, dashing along at 37 mph, while cruising in the 29 mph range. Propulsion units are the highly efficient and maneuverable 440-hp Volvo Penta IPS600s, in a twin setup. The 45 also benefits from Beneteau’s trademark Airstep hull, which creates a bed of air for the boat to sit atop, creating a ride that is feathery soft. This is a vessel that seems to touch all the bases and is well fit for a variety of uses. It seems like we can chalk up another hit for the goliath from France. ★

LOA: 48'5" Beam: 13'8" Weight: 24,782 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 2 x 119 gals. Water Capacity: 2 x 53 gals. Power: 2 x 440 hp Base Price: $886,200 BENETEAU.COM

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 14', 16' or 18' Beam: 74" – 84" at deck

Dry Weight: 375 – 675 lbs.

Power: 15 hp – 60 hp electric equivalent motors

MSRP: Starting at $35,000

Epoch Boats Skiff Series

Fast, foiling electric boats.

When it comes to boating, a certain kind of minimalism can go a long way when enjoying a sport that has an ultimate aim of getting humans more in touch with their natural environment. And if you can achieve that end aboard a boat that has a tiny carbon footprint, even better for you, as well as the generations that follow behind you.

To that end, meet the Epoch Boats Skiff Series, a line of high-performance electric boats that are specifically designed to run highly efficiently using electric propulsion. They are also super affordable, with a base price for the 14-footer starting at a scant $35,000 (other options include larger 16- and 18-foot models). The hulls have hydrofoils that deploy to 15 inches deep and that lift the boat out of the water, increasing electric motor speed by 50% and the range by three times. At full go, these boats can hit 30 mph with active stabilization for a smooth ride using the innovative system. When the foils are

not in use, they tuck up against the hull, giving the boats just a measly 4 inches of draft, turning nearly any body of water into a navigable one.

Equipped with electric outboards, Epochs are also incredibly quiet vessels, run with zero emissions, and can reduce fuel costs by 96% annually, according to the builder.

Hull colors are a fun option to help set your boat apart. Layouts are also customizable, depending on uses for the boat, which might include as a fishing boat or a tender. Options include an extended range battery pack, side or center console steering and throttle, a casting deck and a shallow water anchor.

Epoch is currently finalizing prototype testing, with full commercial availability by early 2023 for customers that sign up on its waitlist. With these fun entry-level boats, Epoch is looking to energize the small boating segment with an electric boat that’s both fun and efficient. ★

Scout 377 LXF S-Class

Carolina sweetheart.

South Carolina builder Scout Boats has a reputation for building luxe center consoles with exemplary levels of fit and finish that ride atop well-performing hulls. This new 377 LXF S-Class is a good example of what the builder can do, in a footprint that is big enough to handle most any sea state while also being small enough for owners to handle themselves.

The 377 LXF S-Class also benefits from some construction methods that are worthy of rocket scientists — quite literally, since they are derived from the aerospace industry. Scout built this boat using carbon epoxy construction, i.e. epoxy infused with carbon fiber/e-glass. The builder says this construction method makes its hulls both lighter and stiffer than the competition.

“Our process removes the brittle, excess fat of the resin to create a boat that weighs a little less when compared to other outdated competitor

processes, but at the same time provides an even stronger, more stable structure,” says Alan Lang, Scout’s director of sales and marketing.

The 377 LXF also has a stepped hull that effectively makes this boat float on a cushion of air while underway — excellent for high speeds and soft landings. Also excellent for high speeds are power packages, including triple 425-hp Yamaha outboards or twin 600-hp Mercury V12 Verados. With the Merc 600s, the boat hits 67.8 mph at 6400 RPM with a fuel range of 225 miles (when loaded with about one-third tank of fuel and five test personnel).

The LXF features a lithium-ion battery, a portside swing-in boarding door, a spacious cabin down below and an enclosed head, as well as a slick foredeck lounge, which is the perfect space to relax while on a high-speed dash to your favorite local watering hole. ★

LOA: 37'7" Beam: 11'5" Draft: 26"

Dry Weight: 14,120 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 363 gals. Water Capacity: 61 gals. Max Power: 1,350 hp Base MSRP: $775,936 SCOUTBOATS.COM

Cruisers Yachts

50 GLS Trust in your builder.

by Capt. Tom Serio

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CRUISERS YACHTS

When buying a new boat, many factors have to be considered: The type of boating, locations, destinations and, of course, financing. But there’s one more thing that should be counted, almost by default, and that’s trust. There needs to be an intrinsic level of trust in the builder, in the process and in the product.

Having reviewed several Cruisers Yachts over the years, I have gained trust in its boats — trust that Cruisers is expected to not only maintain a level of quality, innovation and seakeeping in its vessels, but also to exceed it with new models. And it has, with the brand-new Cruisers Yachts 50 GLS.

Creative innovation

Even before stepping aboard, it’s evident Cruisers has stepped up its game. From the rendering you can see how the cockpit converts into a “party platform.” Making this happen are the hull beach doors, where the side gunwales fold down, increasing deck space (to a beam of 21 feet). It also yields great views of the water. Not only that, Cruisers designed a neat layout with aftfacing port and starboard L-shaped settees, suitable for lounging or seating, with padded backrests. Just aft in the center is a large transom bench seat, making this entire area its own little haven. Split wood tables that attach at the base of the seat can be removed and used at the lounge seats, thanks to slide in/out mounts on the seat base and not holes in the deck. With the gunwale sides up and locked, it’s still a favorite gathering space.

You can see that Cruisers thought of access from stem to stern, and appropriately designed the entire main deck for easy transit even if all seats are filled; no knee bumping when trying to move around.

The 50 GLS has aft platform decking allowing for access to the built-in 155-squareinch electric grill, sink and storage on the transom’s back side.

Twin swim platforms flank the triple outboards, adding to deck space and access to the water.

As explained to me by Matt VanGrunsen, director of marketing, the Cruisers team is thorough with this design. “We made a fullscale mock-up that we had for about a year for everyone to review and make changes to,” he says. This aids them in being able to touch each area, make enhancements prior to production, and get a real feel for the size and spaces. Input from their dealers is also sought after.

Bow to the bow

What may be more impressive is the open bow, which is something to be admired. With a U-shaped settee offering three sides for seating, access is through a portside door and sliding windshield.

First, this is no standard bowrider. With a high freeboard exterior design and a 36-inch inside freeboard, this is a safe and stable ride. On the fore-facing bench seat, there are three bucket backrests with fold-down armrests. Angled backrest sides, a custom headrest and diamond stitching make these seats akin to those on speedboats. But why not, as I saw the 50 GLS top out near 55 mph on my test ride. Sweet seats, indeed! Forward is wraparound seating. Want a table? It rises from the deck and also acts as the filler base for a giant sunpad. There’s a chiller box and in-deck storage. A hidden

anchor and ground tackle closet keep the gear out of the way. For extra coverage, there are four poles for an optional sunshade.

Main attractions

For more seating options, there’s a helm area midship. With the station to starboard, it offers a split Ultraleather helm seat setup. The captain has a single electric seat outward with a double companion bench right next to it, perfect for a second person during navigation or for guests to be with the captain. A nice touch is the team footrest. Three 19-inch Simrad multifunction displays allow for most everything to be monitored onscreen, reducing the number of dash switches and gauges. Neatly mounted are the Seakeeper 6 display, VHF and engine monitor. Throttles, trim tab and joystick are neatly laid out to the right. Supplying power is a 16 kW Kohler diesel generator.

Across to port is an L-settee with a fold-out wood table, creating another comfortable social/dining area.

Some gems on deck include a wetbar with a sink and a glass backsplash, an under-counter 3-cubic-foot fridge and freezer, and a large L-shape counter. Between the port settee and aft seat is a cabinet with a pull-out bottle/storage

pantry and recessed tray in the top for wireless phone charging. There’s a charger by the captain, too! Behind the wetbar is a pop-up 55-inch (yes, not a typo) TV. From the hardtop aft is an electric extending sunshade. Crank the tunes as there are 12 JL Audio speakers and subwoofers strategically placed throughout the boat.

Protection from the elements is a robust integrated hardtop with sunroof, opening side windows and a huge windshield. For extended cruising, have aft Bimini curtains installed to enclose the main deck.

Trust in the design

Trust that Cruisers did its due diligence and has designed this as a cruiser boat, not just a weekender (which it could be). Below is a cabin with 6 feet, 8 inches of headroom, finished in high-gloss Mocha Oak wood, white Ultraleather and wood flooring. Forward is a stateroom with a centerline queen berth, locker and a 32-inch TV. Overhead is a skylight that offers ambient lighting. Midship is an aft stateroom with a berth, side seats that can be filled for extra sleeping room and a 32-inch TV.

The head has a nice-size separate shower stall; sometimes it’s the little things! Galley features include a microwave and a 2.3-cubicfoot fridge.

horses

Strapped onto the 50 GLS are triple Mercury Verado 600-hp outboards. If you didn’t know, these 600s are solid mounted engines and do not move to steer. The lower unit rotates to steer — quite a feature. I still have to get used to seeing stationary engines while turning.

These powerplants perform and have the speed when needed. We topped out at 54.5 mph in a 2-plus-foot chop, with the GLS ready for more. Cruise at 41 mph for a burn of 82 gph total and range of approximately 280 nm. Or pull back more to 15.6 mph for a range of 560 nm drinking only 15.5 gph.

The ride is exciting, and the 50 GLS feels like a sports car in the turns yet more yachtlike in the straights. Hard-over turns at speed lean the boat well into the turns but with true tracking. No white knuckles here.

When looking for a boat, do your work and gain trust in the builder. Cruisers Yachts has earned the trust. Just look at the 50 GLS for proof. ★

14'6"

2'10"/3'11" Fuel

660 gals.

gals.

FORMULA 387 CCF

A real magic carpet ride.

BY CAPT. TOM SERIO

Usually, I give a final accounting of a yacht I test toward the end of the story. Not today.

I’m going to offer my overall impression up front, then give you the proof to substantiate my claim. Okay, here goes: The Formula 387 Center Console Fish (CCF) is one versatile yacht that offers so much to the general cruiser as well as to the fishing fanatics, and it’s a truly well-designed vessel. Add in the sleek styling, velvety smooth ride and generous features and options that the 387 CCF offers and this is one yacht that will be on top of the list. There, I said it.

CURB APPEAL

First off, the Formula 387 CCF is a good-looking boat. The unbroken sheer is complemented by lateral hull styling and thigh-high freeboard. Integrated styling is also found in the raked windshield, angled-back side window frames and aft hardtop stanchions. Key here is that the swept angles are identical, portraying a thoughtful design and not a hodge-podge of components we often see. By the way, these are not fiberglass but rather aluminum channels that add a solid feel. One cool feature is the opening forward windshield. Not some of it — all of it. Making this happen are two oversized and beefy hydraulic pistons that keep this window rock steady even when running open.

THE BUSINESS END

Enough of the niceties, let’s get down to business. Formula has a patented multi-plane hull design called FAS³TECH. It offers a fast-paced, super slick surface that decreases drag, increases performance and creates a soft re-entry thanks to the multi-stepped configuration. It really makes for a smooth ride, so much so that our ocean ride in 2-footers was velvety soft, like a magic carpet ride. Other boats would be skipping at speed, but the 387 CCF with its deep-V hull and 23-degree transom deadrise ate them up. This means faster to the fish, a quicker return, and a comfortable ride in between.

Hull rigidity comes from the molded structural grid, as well as bonded and through-bolted deck and hull assemblies.

While fishing, spool up the Seakeeper 3 gyro stabilizer to basically eliminate the snap-roll you may experience on a deep-V vessel.

Of course, a hull is only as good as the powerplants pushing it, and Formula doesn’t skimp here. Our test ride had triple Mercury Racing 450 outboards, but options include triple Mercury Verado 350- or 400-hp blocks, or go for a pair of big Mercury Verado 600s. Any combo would be perfect on the 387 CCF.

With triple 450s, the horses responded nicely to the throttle commands. Wide open we topped 60.7 mph; the speed is there. Dialing in at 4,000 RPM, we hit 32.5 mph at 48.9 gph. Nudge up to 4,500 RPM and we saw 42.9 mph at 66.6 gph. As we pushed the throttles, the speeds ramped up but so did the gallons being consumed. The point is, find the boat’s sweet spot and your ideal cruise speed for a comfortable combo.

WHAT’S IN A NAME

Don’t be fooled by the “center console” nomenclature, as the 387 CCF has a nice cabin that’s much more than just a compartment under the helm. Step down the woodgrain-finish flooring to the large U-shaped dinette/lounge/double berth (yup, it does all that). Drop in the table for meals or games, or add the filler cushion for sleeping. Formula got it right by designing a drawer dedicated to filler cushions and table storage. Tucked away, they don’t flop around or get in the way.

Keep the gear safe, as the dinette seats have ample storage for rods and reels.

Entertainment is via the 32-inch TV and Rockford Fosgate stereo. Comfort is from an 8,000 BTU reverse cycle AC system. To starboard is the galley, with upper microwave, lower Isotherm fridge and Corian counter with a built-in molded sink with cover.

Surprising is the private head with VacuFlush toilet, Corian sink/counter and shower wand, making it a great setup for spending the weekend or cleaning up after a fishing trip.

Power for the AC and Seakeeper is from a Fischer Panda 8.5 kW Mini 9 diesel generator (with a 25-gallon fuel tank). Builders use diesel generators for the safety factor.

Even though the 387 is a Center Console Fish, it doubles well as a cruiser. Bow seating includes a large two-person lounger with folding center armrest/cup holder with USB ports. A large cooler is underneath.

The coolest setup is the aft-facing mezzanine seat that slides out over the center tackle station. Added is an electric Yeti Tundra 35 cooler that comes out from under the tackle station. Not only bringing another huge cooler for drinks/food to the setup, it also acts as a custom platform for stepping up to the seat. It’s a rugged setup yet very stylish and blends in well.

Teak decking adds grip, and gunwale padded combing adds comfort. Thanks to the 12-foot beam, Formula has added swim platforms on either side of the outboards with enclosed ladders, making access from the water or dock easy. Side boarding doors are a great extra.

FISH ON

But this is a fishing machine after all, and Formula again did its homework in getting the job done. I lost track counting all of the rod holders (many as combo drink holders, too). Suffice it to say that no matter where you fish on this full walk-around boat, you are within arms reach of a rod holder. There are seven rocket launches across the back of the hardtop and another five across the transom. Wow!

Trick out the ride with Gemlux 18-foot telescoping outriggers, two 40-gallon livewells with acrylic lids, and in-deck fishboxes can be found

from bow to cockpit. I like the optional grill on the transom. There’s nothing better than grilling up the catch you just reeled in.

Notable is the center tackle station, complete with one drawer that fi ts fi ve Plano storage boxes, and three additional drawers — a great idea for keeping lures and hooks organized. One drawer is actually a flip-out with several electrical controls — handy, so you don’t have to keep going back to the helm.

Drivability is easy from the starboard helm. Triple 16-inch Garmin multifunction displays bring a sleek “glass helm” look to the console. Wood trim, footrests and corner grabrails (which are all over the boat, a nice safety feature) make this an appealing setup. Triple helm seats have folding armrests. An overhead console houses the 7-inch Mercury Smartcraft VesselView display, VHF, Seakeeper controls and more. Oh, and this boat has speakers everywhere so crank ‘em up.

Of note is the center ladder up to the hardtop hatch. Easily add a small tower or use it to access topmounted electronics.

When Formula Boats sets out with a new model, you know it’s going to be better than the last. The 387 CCF doesn’t disappoint. From the ride to the comfort to the fishability, the CCF will raise fish and a few eyebrows at the docks. Just tell them it’s your magic carpet ride! ★

Bringing History to Life

South Haven’s Michigan Maritime Museum reopens with an expanded exhibit space, keeping Great Lakes maritime history alive.

The Great Lakes have played a significant role in American maritime history by providing passage to the Midwest, food supplied by commercial fishing, timber that rebuilt Chicago after the Great Fire, and much more.

For those interested, one of the very best places to learn about Great Lakes maritime history is at the Michigan Maritime Museum in the lakeshore town of South Haven, Michigan.

Located at the mouth of the Black River on Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline, the town of South Haven roars to life each summer as one of the top vacation destinations for visitors from across the Midwest.

Overlooking South Haven’s main harbor, the Michigan Maritime Museum offers visitors a wealth of information about Great Lakes maritime history through immersive exhibits, art, marine artifacts and more. Past exhibits have featured everything from early U.S. Coast Guard rescue activities to the area’s contributions to World War II, when luxury passenger ships were converted into aircraft carriers and used to train Navy pilots.

By Chuck Warren

Full steam ahead

Although one of West Michigan’s most popular attractions, the museum did not have the room needed to display much of its collected artworks, artifacts and exhibits until the launch of a recent campaign aimed at expanding and refreshing the campus. The successful campaign drove the museum’s growth from just under 5,000 to 19,000 square feet of indoor space. The museum also grew its outdoor footprint with the addition of adjacent waterfront property providing room for even more exhibits and attractions.

With its official launch in August 2022, the museum’s main hall opened with a new exhibit titled “Full Steam Ahead: The Golden Age of Great Lakes Passenger Steamships.” As sail gave way to steam power, the huge steamships ferried passengers and cargo between Midwest ports on Lakes Michigan, Huron, Erie and beyond. The immersive display presents the age of steam-powered vessels on the Great Lakes in the early 1800s, giving visitors a glimpse of the luxury accommodations for passengers, as well as a crewmember’s challenging life aboard the hulking vessels.

Before the expansion, the museum did not have enough room to display

(Top) Aerial photo of the South Haven harbor looking west (circa 1950-1960) and future home of the Maritime Museum, which would be built in the lower right corner. (Bottom) Commercial fish tug at Jensen’s Fishery in South Haven harbor circa 1960-1970

many pieces from its collection of art and artifacts. Instead, many of its treasures were loaned to other organizations.

“We have an extensive model collection that has been on loan to other places,” says museum Executive Director Patti Montgomery Reinert. “It’s a way of collaborating with other museums, but it’s just so great to have the space to be able to share some of these things here.”

The new expansion also enabled the Michigan Maritime Museum to offer event capabilities to the local community, creating the opportunity to host classes, corporate meetings, weddings and more.

“We’ve had numerous conferences held in these rooms, and many of them have been driven locally,” Reinert says, “but we have had people coming in from out of town to have their meetings here and that has also helped grow our membership.”

On-water experiences

Although the main building houses the museum’s largest exhibit, there are many more reasons to visit the extensive campus.

Outbuildings along the South Haven harbor waterfront include the Van

RIBBON CUTTING

PHOTO BY TOM RENNER

(Top main) Aerial photo of the Maritime Museum campus, including Friends Good Will and Lindy Lou. (Top inset) Front view of the Michigan Maritime Museum. (Bottom right) Kids crewing aboard Friends Good Will and “learning the ropes.” (Bottom left) Grand Opening ribbon cutting ceremony on July 14, 2022.

THIS PAGE: (Top left) Interior shot of the Van Oort Boathouse, which houses the museum’s collection of Coast Guard wooden lifesaving/rescue vessels. (Top right) The expanded waterfront and exterior of the McClendon Small Craft Barn, and the new boardwalk. (Lower left) Interior of the McClendon Small Craft Barn and boats on display.

OPPOSITE PAGE: (Top) Museum main atrium. (Far right middle) Entryway to the “Full Steam Ahead” exhibit. (Far right bottom) Museum gift shop.

Oort Boathouse, which contains a complete collection of wooden U.S. Coast Guard rescue vessels, and the McClendon Small Craft Barn, which features a collection of antique outboard engines.

Nearby, the Padnos Boat Shed provides a workspace where volunteers and staff repair and maintain the Michigan Maritime Museum’s “on-water experiences” — an impressive fleet of classic and historic vessels.

Standing tall in the historic harbor, the 101-foot Friends Good Will, built specifically for the museum in 2004, is an exact replica of the original Great Lakes merchant ship that sailed from 1810 to 1813. Museum visitors can join the Friends Good Will’s crew of museum staff and volunteers, all dressed in period clothing, for a cruise on Lake Michigan several times daily while also assisting with shipboard duties such as raising and lowering the sails.

Guests can also cruise on the museum’s other floating attractions, such as Bernida, a 32-foot 1921 racing sloop that won several prestigious events before it was donated to the museum.

The Michigan Maritime Museum’s waterfront is also home to Lindy Lou, the electric-power replica of a 30-foot Truscott river launch like the originals used to ferry passengers and small cargo upriver, and Merry Time, a fully restored 22-foot 1929 Chris-Craft Cadet — both of which offer cruises several times daily.

Part of the museum’s collection of historic Coast Guard rescue vessels, guests can also cruise onboard the 1941 36-foot, self-righting U.S. Coast Guard motor lifeboat used by Disney while filming the movie “The Finest Hours.”

Get involved

The Michigan Maritime Museum offers a wide variety of classes, internships and volunteer opportunities. Volunteers are required to become members to help ensure they receive some orientation and are qualified to assume different responsibilities.

“There’s care for the vessels, maintenance — that kind of stuff,” Reinert says. “They go through basic training to learn how to sail and learn the history, and they are actually a docent.”

Volunteers aboard the Friends Good Will help with maintenance and restoration work and also sail on the ship as crew to help operate the vessel and teach visitors about Great Lakes maritime history.

However, Michigan Maritime Museum volunteers do not only come from the local community or from summer residents.

“The Coast Guard crew comes up from St. Joe every year to help us clean the brass and clean the Coast Guard building so it’s ready for exhibition for that season,” Reinert says. “We just got a call this week from the St. Joe station and they said ‘we just love being there.’”

Museum internship opportunities offer experience in education and outreach, tourism and hospitality, and more unique and targeted experiences such as museum studies and even exhibit design and maintenance.

Still growing

The museum expansion has also allowed the display of many more pieces of new and historic artwork and maritime items donated to the museum, although one of the more unique historic artifacts in the building could easily go unnoticed.

Much of the trim and other decorative pieces of wood in the building, including the face of the welcome desk, are made from timber recovered from the bottom of the Great Lakes. As timber harvesting and production grew during the mid-1800s lumber boom, harvested logs would sometimes sink before reaching sawmills or while waiting to be processed. Known as “timeless timber,” this recovered old-growth wood has been used to decorate the interior surfaces of the museum.

Still growing, the Michigan Maritime Museum is already looking toward Phase Two of its planned expansion, which will include a new seawall installation to help protect the museum’s waterfront. The second phase will also extend the museum’s boardwalk, add a three-season tent to connect several outbuildings, and create a close replica of South Haven’s original Coast Guard lifesaving station on the grounds, which will include a viewing tower.

Preserving history for future generations is an important responsibility; however, the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven is doing more than just keep history alive. The museum’s incredible team of staff and volunteers are bringing Great Lakes maritime history to life. H

PHOTO BY TOM RENNER

On MiCHiGan’S SunRiSE SiDE, CHEBOyGan SHinES

Discover the surprising small city at the eastern edge of the Straits of Mackinac.

B y K aTH US i T a LO

Inland Waterway

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHEBOYGAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Cheboygan

St. Ignace Mackinac Island Bois Blanc Isle. LakeHuron

LakeMichigan

Straits of Mackinaw

Dock & dine

isitors are waking up to the charm of Cheboygan, located at the top of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula along the US 23 Heritage Route. The area where the Cheboygan River meets Lake Huron is a four-season destination with an abundance of maritime and recreational experiences, growing cultural and arts scene, and an energized Main Street.

“We are a hidden gem off the beaten path. People are starting to notice,” says Carole Yeck, executive director of the Cheboygan Area Chamber of Commerce.

Gateway to the waterways

Travelers know that before heading out in any unfamiliar area, it’s important to get oriented. In Cheboygan, you can find your bearings at the bar. Specifically, the 24-foot-long copper and mahogany beauty at The Nauti Inn Barstro on Main Street.

Sharen and Brian Lange commissioned Michigan talent to create the “Waterway Bar” as the centerpiece of their bistro where, from May through December, small plates and seasonal entrees are served in a setting with the ambiance of a classic wooden boat. The gleaming bar is topped with area maps made of thick sheets of Michigan copper.

the thickly forested area and constructed the first sawmill. Much work was required to realize the potential of the waterway, including dredging, widening, creating a canal and building a lock. By the late 1800s, the lumbering boom was on, and the population topped 8,000.

Tourists started to arrive by passenger ships from Detroit and Cleveland. In the style of the era, advertising hyperbolically touted traveling The Inland Route, “One of the marvels of the 19th century” and “The most picturesque trip in the world.”

Today, paddlers, pontoons and powerboats spend a day or more following the Inland Waterway, which connects Lake Huron with the Cheboygan, Crooked and Indian rivers, and Mullett, Burt, Pickerel and Crooked lakes.

A port city

The Port of Cheboygan is an active, deepwater port that allows access to all of the Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence Seaway and the world. In addition to pleasure craft, it accommodates domestic and international freighters, and is the home of marine contractors. The Kristen D ferries cars and passengers 45 minutes to Bois Blanc Island, a sparsely populated getaway.

The rustic Hack-Ma-Tack Inn was built in 1894 as a hunting and fishing lodge on the Cheboygan River at Mullett Lake, with plenty of room for boaters to tie up. The menu oozes old-school fine dining: Escargot, prime rib, roasted duck and surf & turf.

“Our bar has become its own sort of destination,” Sharen says. “If you’re from Cheboygan, you can point right to where so-and-so lives, or where you caught a fish, or your favorite kayak spot. For those not from here, the bar gives us a spectacular visual to share our special Inland Waterway.”

Stationed here is the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw (WABB 30); at 240 feet, it’s the largest icebreaker on the Great Lakes. Its predecessor, commissioned 1944-2006, is now the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum, 15 miles west in Mackinaw City.

Throughout the season (May through mid-October), boat slips await at Pier M33 On The Cheboygan, a casual, nautical setting with a variety of international flavors and a water view (open year-round).

That’s the watery route that stretches 38 miles westward from Cheboygan and was important to Native Americans centuries ago. “Cheboygan” may be based on the Ojibwe word meaning “through passage,” because it was a protected, alternative course between Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. The waterway was dotted with encampments — archaeologists have discovered evidence of about 50 settlements along the way — and Ottawa and Chippewa Indians used it to meet and trade.

In 1778, a British trader arrived and stayed for two winters, but it wasn’t until 1844 that permanent settlers moved to

Fun for all

Learn about the area’s past at the museum compound that includes the 1880s sheriff’s residence and jail. Check out the restoration in process at the Front Range Lighthouse. Catch a performance at the historic Opera House. Admire the rotating exhibit by local and regional artists at Ottawa Art Park.

The Children’s Trail at Major City Park engages kids with nature and storytelling, through a changing storybook, interactive art sculptures, checkerboard table and special activities. It’s connected by a pedestrian

Hack-Ma-Tack Inn

Pier M33 On The Cheboygan

bridge over the Cheboygan River to Washington Park, where there are concerts at the gazebo.

Cheboygan has earned designation as a Pure Michigan Trail Town for the area’s wealth and variety of non-motorized (hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, equestrian and biking), ORV and water trails. These include the North Central State Trail, North Eastern State Trail, and paths at the Cheboygan and Aloha state parks.

At Gordon Turner Park, an astounding 15-acre cattail marsh attracts winged visitors. Located on the Sunrise Coast Birding Trail, it’s a hotspot for viewing shorebirds, osprey, snowy owls, bald eagles, gulls and many other species throughout the seasons. There’s also a boardwalk, the photogenic Cheboygan Crib Lighthouse, a playground, beach, picnic tables and distant view of the Mackinac Bridge.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays from Memorial Day Weekend through October, Cheboygan Farmers’ Market at Festival Square draws local growers and makers who sell produce, meats, baked goods, honey, syrup and handcrafted items (check the Facebook page for off-season indoor market information).

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw and Cheboygan County Marina

Children’s Trail

Opera House

Cheboygan River Front Range Light

Aboard Captain Jenn Robyde’s Nautical North Family Adventures, everyone has a chance to view Lake Huron shipwrecks without getting wet. Yankee Sunshine, her 28-passenger, glass-bottom boat, makes 90-minute, narrated tours from May to October. She also offers kayak rentals and shipwreck diving trips. Not into scuba? Ask about the boat tour with the option to snorkel over an 1891 shipwreck.

“Yes, we stop and throw people overboard,” she laughs.

Sip, SUP, shop

Main Street Cheboygan invites strolling and dropping into an eclectic mix of one-of-a-kind shops and dining spots. At her cheery, namesake café, Libby Davis buzzes about, greeting a steady stream of guests who come for inventive dishes from breakfast through dinner, and her famous pies. This is Libby’s third Cheboygan location, and she’s happy to be back downtown.

“The more restaurants, the better,” she says, adding, “I love seeing people with shopping bags on the streets.”

Urban Bird & Company carries fun fashions and accessories for women, and kids gravitate to the hands-on activities at Creation Station & Right Brain Toys. Bittersweet is a modern general store with a wide selection of edibles, collectibles, household and seasonal items. MichMash mixes Michigan-made products, decorative and home goods, food, jewelry, accessories and more.

Refresh with a Lighthouse Amber, Blood Orange Honey or Blueberry Cream Ale at Cheboygan Brewing Company. Originally founded in 1872, the brewery faded away in 1911 and was revived a century later, with an indoor taproom, outdoor patio and rooftop seating. Hive North offers Michigan-made mead, cider and beer, acoustic music jams, locally crafted goods and special events at the arch-ceilinged gathering spot described as “a coffee house with alcohol.” Plain-to-fancy caffeine fixes are nearby at Cheboygan Coffee Roasters and State Street Coffee Company.

Longtime local food favorites include breakfast at Alice’s Restaurant, Mulligan’s

PHOTO COURTESY OF (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP): CHEBOYGAN DOWNTOWN FACEBOOK; CHEBOYGAN DOWNTOWN FACEBOOK; STORE

FACEBOOK; CAPTAIN JENNIFER OF NAUTICAL NORTH; KATH USITALO; CHEBOYGAN BREW FACEBOOK

Libby’s

Farmers’ Market

Nautical North Family Adventures

Cheboygan Brewing Company

(Good Food. Bad Shots.) somethingfor-everyone menu and friendly service, and the parmesan-encrusted whitefish at Great Lakes Grill, a Cheboygan institution since 1996. At Yeck Family Drive-In, a 45-year summertime tradition, a car hop delivers your burger, coney dog, shake or root beer float.

Along Main Street, what looks like a row of colorful shops from Merry Olde England comprises multiple businesses invented by Marcella and Brit-born John Costin. The couple has a raft of honors recognizing their contributions to Cheboygan’s current revival. Note: Tongue-in-cheek humor and adult beverages are involved. Their first foray was Simply Marcella, a boutique featuring women’s fashions and accessories, including her own original pearl jewelry. Next door, Stormy Kromer: A Cap & Ale House, is dedicated to the iconic Upper Peninsula outdoor wear — and a pint or two at the

pub-like bar. Fresh fudge, truffles and other sweets and treats, plus adorable pig-themed goods, fill The Pig ‘N’ Whistle, where adults can whet their whistles with Pink Pig Rumrunners.

Attached, but facing Huron Street, The Queens Head Wine Pub earns rave reviews for its wine list, fresh take on pub fare and Royal Libations like the Dirty King and Twisted Tudor. The Lark Theater is an intimate performing arts space with its own cozy lounge.

When John and Marcella have a rare day free, they often hop on their cruising yacht and head out onto the water. A favorite destination is Mackinac Island — it’s 48 minutes from the Cheboygan County Marina to Haldimand Bay.

“We have the opportunity to go in so many directions,” says John of the boating options, another benefit of the area. “Cheboygan does have a huge amount of momentum. It had a lot of potential and just needed to be opened up.” H

Resources

Cheboygan Area Visitors Bureau CHEBOYGAN.COM

Cheboygan Trails CHEBOYGANTRAILWAYS.COM

Heritage Route 23 US23HERITAGEROUTE.ORG

Inland Waterway

IRCHAMBER.COM/OUR-COMMUNITY/ INLAND-WATERWAY-MICHIGAN

Marinas

Cheboygan County Marina

CHEBOYGANCOUNTY.NET/DEPARTMENTSSERVICES/MARINA

Reservations through Michigan DNR: MIDNRRESERVATIONS.COM

Cheboygan Village Marina

CHEBOYGANVILLAGEMARINA.COM

Duncan Bay Boat Club DUNCANBAY.ORG

Mullett Lake Marina MULLETTLAKEMARINA.COM Walstrom Marine WALSTROM.COM

When it comes to the perfect blend of waterfront views and downtown access, the new Portside Loft Condominium on S. 1st Street in Grand Haven, Michigan (which is currently under construction), offers a pretty near perfect match. An interior patio with a folding glass patio wall offers views and patio relaxation throughout the seasons, while plenty of windows and an open concept invite views of the Grand River.

“Enjoy tremendous views of passing boats and gorgeous sunsets right from your own luxury Portside Loft Condominium in downtown Grand Haven,” invites listing agent Andrea Crossman. “Appreciate the lakeside setting without the chaos and hassle of managing traffic and crowds on nearby Harbor Drive.”

A main appeal is the downtown access — you’re in the heart of Grand Haven. Walk right out your front door to shops and restaurants, or

hop on your boat at any of the nearby marinas for an exploration of the Grand River, Spring Lake and Lake Michigan beyond.

Inside, two bedrooms and three bathrooms provide space to relax and recharge, while a custom kitchen featuring a large island and quartz countertops offers the perfect space to entertain friends and family. A gas fireplace in the living area invites you to enjoy a quiet evening in the comfort of your home. Other features include an open concept layout, a private elevator and luxury vinyl plank flooring. For convenience, this condo includes a private two-car garage, and if you’re looking to add on additional space down the road, the lower level is rough framed for two more bedrooms and a full bath.

This new, welcoming condo in the heart of Grand Haven is currently under construction and will be available this spring. ★

Lake Shore Boat Top Company

Growing up, Lake Shore Boat Top Company served as Rob Kotowski’s “babysitter.” He’d run around the shop, keeping employees on their toes, pulling staples, sweeping floors and any number of tasks — it’s the basis of a strong work ethic he credits to his parents, who started the business in 1959.

As Kotowski grew older, he began to put his own stamp on the business, rebranding and looking for ways to grow and realize his own vision for the company. His father, Bob, supported his efforts, and in 2017, Rob purchased the business.

Today, Lake Shore Boat Top continues to provide exceptional quality and service for a variety of canvas, upholstery and interior needs, from simple cockpit covers to creative canvas enclosures. Everything is done in-house; its innovative fabrication department offers a full fabric showroom, sewing department, digital and CAD design services, and a full upholstery department.

“We bring a lot of energy, and it all starts with our company culture. We treat everyone like family, and we want everyone to be successful,” Kotowski explains.

The shop prides itself on offering exceptional service, including free estimates, and will even travel to your boat.

“We educate our customers on the projects we are creating for them,” Kotowski adds. “We want them to be aware of what’s available, we want to know how they use their boat, and we like to listen to areas of concerns they are currently having so we can make sure we... provide the best product available. It’s all about communication — we listen and strive for excellence.”

Lake Shore Boat Top’s location along the Nautical Mile in the Metro-Detroit area of St. Clair Shores provides the perfect location to service boats and assist owners. The shop stays busy 365 days a year, whether it’s working on boats, or teaching and training the team to refine their time-tested processes. ★

be hard pressed to

this clean and well maintained. Vessel includes trailer, mooring, cover, cockpit floor covers, and fusion stereo. Lots of room for a 19-foot boat, nice layout and generously-sized swim platform. All of this in a very easy-to-trailer package. Asking $36,900. Call Matt @ 734-735-1948. RYS

a used

100% freshwater, professionally maintained and fully detailed. Yamaha F300 XCA DEC (electronic) has only 131 engine hours. Options include bow thruster, gas generator, AC, Garmin electronics, full galley, underwater lights, solar panel, epoxy barrier coating, bottom paint and more! Trailer included. Asking $209,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0180. RYS

2018 CHAPARRAL 307SSX Freshwater, one owner. With Axius Joystick, docking this boat is a breeze. The joystick also includes skyhook and autopilot. 196 original hours on twin 430 HP 8.2s paired with Bravo 3 X drives. No Trailer. Asking $199,999. Contact PJ Tamer 424-424-9627 or pj@ centerpointesales.com. CNT

2021 CROWNLINE 265 SS Just in! Beautiful trade-in, 50 hours. Matching tandem axle trailer and a pump out head. Powered by a Mercruiser 6.2L 300 HP, plenty of power for water sports. Full sun bed with filler cushions included. Asking $129,900. Contact PJ Tamer 424-424-9627 or pj@ centerpointesales.com. CNT

100% freshwater, one owner. Twin Yamaha LF/F250XCAs with DEC electronic controls, only 32 hours! Yamaha T9.9XPB kicker motor. Loaded, including windlass, Garmin chartplotter/sounder and radar, GT23 transducer, upgraded fuel, water and waste tanks, galley, rear transom door, aft station cabinet. Asking $249,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0180. RYS

2021 WELDCRAFT 280 CUDDY

2017 BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 46 Redesigned main deck and cockpit, which includes two large electrically reclining seats. Offers the handling ease of Beneteau’s previous smaller model, while making use of many of the details found in her 49' big sister. Asking $599,764. Contact Terry Godres at 920559-0730 or terry@centerpointesales.com. CNT

2018 RANGER TUGS R-27 LUXURY EDITION

KING

Dynamite III

1950 26' Hacker-Craft Triple Cockpit

People with fond memories of Chippewa Lake Amusement Park in northeast Ohio can no doubt conjure up the sounds of the speedboat Dynamite as it roared around the lake. After the first lap, the boat’s siren would wail and add to the excitement. The park was opened in 1875 by an Ohio druggist as a resort and fishing camp. It eventually evolved into one of the premier amusement parks in the state.

The park was purchased by Parker Beach’s family in the early 1930s. Dynamite III was put into service in the early 1950s as part of a fleet of watercraft offering rides to Chippewa Lake patrons. Dynamite III, a 1950 Hacker-Craft Triple Cockpit, was the last of the “ride boats” before the park closed in 1978. There were two boats before her: A Chris-Craft Triple and a Garwood Triple. Dynamite III was delivered powered by a Scripps V-12 engine, and when that wore out, a Chrysler Hemi, a Ford 427 and lastly a 400-hp 534 cubic engine.

D ynamite III was and still is an impressive boat at 26 feet in length, weighing 6,000 pounds, and constructed of oak and gleaming varnished Honduran Mahogany decks. Dynamite III was

configured to hold 11 passengers and gave park patrons a “white knuckle ride around the lake.” It’s estimated that in her 26 years as a ride boat over 200,000 passengers were carried in her cockpits.

The park closed in 1978 after more than 100 years. Dynamite III was put away, worn out and beat up after all those years. Then along came Bruce Ruessman in 1984. His brother was one of several captains of Dynamite in her day at the park. He purchased the boat from the recent owner, Guido DeGeromino, who had her painted white to match the other park rides. Bruce began the huge undertaking of restoring the boat, and after several years he had to let the project go. In 2010, Larry Prebis, a member of North Coast Ohio ACBS, began the task of completing the restoration. When Larry unexpectedly passed away, I purchased the boat from the estate and completed the restoration. On June 29, 2022, after thousands of hours of work, Dynamite III returned to the water.

This past year, I have shown Dynamite III at the Portage Lakes Boat Show and the International ACBS Show in Burlington, Vermont.

— Gary Kosiba, North Lawrence, OH

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GARY KOSIBA