July 2023

Features

Boat Test: Marlow 62E

Port of Call: South Haven, MI

Summer in South Haven: Called Ni-Ko-Nong, or the place of the beautiful sunsets by the Native Americans who originally settled here, South Haven on Michigan’s western shore is all about sandy beaches, towering dunes, wineries, historic boats, a charming downtown just steps from many of the marinas, and its well-earned title as Blueberry Capital of the World.

ON THE COVER

Like all Marlow Yachts, the new 62E is a bespoke yacht, designed exclusively for its owner. From its personalized hull color (called “Speed Blue Pearl”) to a custom salon layout and first-ever application of Volvo IPS in a Marlow, this yacht was made to fulfill the owner’s needs and wants.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT SOUTH HAVEN FACEBOOK

FROM THE HELM

BY KATE BUSH

Babies Onboard!

When you start adding new boaters to the family (like my daughter, Lane, pictured here sporting some Lakeland Boating swag), the type of boat — and style of boating — may inevitably need to evolve. Those solo go-fast, wave-hopping rides on Lake Michigan may be replaced with leisurely shoreline cruises with babies onboard. Your desire for speed and far-off destinations may be traded with an appreciation for more onboard space and a love of discovering anchorages a little closer to home. With some time, you’ll find just the type of boating your family enjoys, and with some research, you can find just the right boat!

If fishing is your family’s thing, check out our roundup of six boats that work double-duty as capable fishing boats and kid-friendly dayboats (p. 42). These boats make sure that no one in the family has to settle.

Cruise on over to South Haven, Michigan, our Port of Call this month, where the blueberries are sweet and summertime is even sweeter (p. 46). Pass by the iconic red lighthouse, tie up at one of the many municipal marinas along the Black River and stay for a weekend (or more) of fun!

See you on the water!

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

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

AREAS MENTIONED IN THIS ISSUE

CONTRIBUTORS

ALAN WENDT

Alan is a past president of Boating Writers International, and co-chair of judging for the Innovation Awards at the Minneapolis Boat Show and IBEX, the largest technical marine event in North America. Born in Cleveland, he is one of the chief architects of the Women on Water, Getaways! and Adventures cruising programs. Wendt is also a licensed pyrotechnician and choreographs fireworks shows for waterfront displays on the 4th of July and New Year’s Eve.

READ HIS STORIES STARTING ON P. 30

West Olive, MI p. 52 Sawmill Creek Marina p. 54

MI p. 46

HHH HHH

DAVE MULL

Dave, a diehard angler from Kalamazoo, Michigan, has contributed boat tests and features to Lakeland Boating for three decades. His current goal is catching a 30-plus pound Great Lakes denizen from his Old Town kayak.

JANE AMMESON

Jane writes about food and travel and is the author of 16 books. Her travel book “Lincoln Road Trip: The Back-Roads Guide to America’s Favorite President” was a Bronze winner in the Travel Book category in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition. Jane loves to sail and spend time on — and in — Lake Michigan.

READ HER STORY ON P. 46

AUSTRALIA’S WORLD CLASS COLLECTION OF LUXURY MOTOR YACHTS

Exhilarating blue-water performance has always been a part of the Riviera heritage. Over 42 years of constant refinement, a timeless and contemporary design has evolved across the magnificent 24-model collection. Outstanding offshore performance, sweeping lines of grace and beauty, luxurious staterooms bathed in natural light, the finest fabrics, leathers and handcrafted joinery from exotic timbers; these are some of the qualities that make every Riviera a world class luxury motor yacht. Engineering excellence in harmony with state-of-the-art electronics and an industry-leading extended warranty program, creates the ultimate boating experience that is uniquely Riviera. Exceptional ease of operation will create the most enjoyable boating for your family and friends. Discover more at RivieraAustralia.com

Rosie Rosie on her boat ride in the Les Cheneaux Islands. “Love the sun!”

—Mark Ferrara, Les Cheneaux Islands, 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 high-resolution photo (at least 1 MB) to: KBUSH@LAKELANDBOATING.COM. Please put “Canine/Feline Crew” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!

Correction

In the June 2023 issue of the magazine, we incorrectly listed the price for the Riviera 4600 Sport Yacht (p. 35). The correct price should read $1,660,500. We sincerely regret the error. More information about Riviera can be found at RIVIERAAUSTRALIA.COM.

PUBLISHER

Linda O’Meara

PUBLISHER IN MEMORIUM

Walter “Bing” O’Meara

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editorial Director: Kate Bush

Assistant Editor: Abby Thorpe

CREATIVE STAFF

Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs

CONTRIBUTORS

Helen Aitken, Jane Ammeson, Glenn Hayes, Capt. Frank Lanier, Dave Mull, Capt. Tom Serio, Heather Steinberger, John Winn, Alan Wendt

BUSINESS STAFF

National Sales: Mark Conway

Regional Sales: Patti McCleery

Accounting: Diane Fairchild

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE

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

INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COM

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 x. 24 / Fax: 312-276-0619

CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Lakeland Boating

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

O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC

President: Linda O’Meara

Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh

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!

Everyone Looks Great in a Lakeland Boating Hat!

Need a gift for your favorite boater? Our Lakeland Boating hat is constructed from soft cotton twill for a great fit. Leather band adjustment in back with antiqued brass closure. Available in weathered navy or Nantucket red (khaki sold out). One size. $24.95 + S&H. To order, visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/STORE.

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.

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.

JUNE 29 – JULY 2

Algonac Lions Pickerel Tournament Algonac, MI ALGONACLIONSCLUB.COM

JUNE 29 – JULY 4

Manistee National Forest Festival Manistee, MI MANISTEEFORESTFESTIVAL.COM

JUNE 30 – JULY 1

The Sound Waterfront Festival Owen Sound, ON OWENSOUND.CA

JUNE 30 – JULY 2

1000 Islands Regatta Brockville, ON BROCKVILLETOURISM.COM

JULY 1 – 2

South Haven Art Fair South Haven, MI SOUTHHAVEN.ORG

JULY 1 – 8

National Cherry Festival 1 Traverse City, MI CHERRYFESTIVAL.ORG

JULY 2 – 4

International Food Festival Marquette, MI TRAVELMARQUETTE.COM

JULY 3

Waterfest Oconto, WI CITYOFOCONTO.COM

JULY 3 – 4

Independence Day Celebration Egg Harbor, WI EGGHARBORDOORCOUNTY.ORG

JULY 4

Independence Day Festivities & Fireworks Put-in-Bay, OH MILLERFERRY.COM

Light Up The Point 2 Sandusky, OH CEDARPOINT.COM

Sturgeon Bay Celebrates 4th of July Sturgeon Bay, WI STURGEONBAY.NET

JULY 5 – 9

Maritime Festival Harbor Beach, MI THEMARITIMEFESTIVAL.COM

JULY 6 – 8

Summerfest

Milwaukee, WI SUMMERFEST.COM

JULY 6 – 9

Two Harbors Heritage Days

Two Harbors, MN FACEBOOK.COM/ TWOHARBORSHERITAGEDAYS

JULY 6 – 30

Beaches International Jazz Festival Toronto, ON BEACHESJAZZ.COM

JULY 7

ACBS Toronto Vintage 3 Boat Show Gravenhurst, ON ACBS.CA

JULY 7 – 8

1000 Islands Gananoque Poker Run Gananoque, ON POKERRUNS.CA/GANANOQUE

Boyne Thunder Poker Run Boyne City, MI BOYNETHUNDER.COM

JULY 7 – 9 Bay Days Silver Bay, MN BAY-DAYS.ORG

Door County Sea Kayak Symposium Door County, WI RUTABAGA.COM/DCSKSPAGE

French Festival Cape Vincent, NY CAPEVINCENT.ORG/FRENCHFESTIVAL

Huron River Fest Huron, OH HURONRIVERFEST.COM

Toronto Outdoor Art Fair Toronto, ON TORONTOOUTDOOR.ART

Whitby Ribfest Whitby, ON WHITBYRIBFEST.COM

JULY 8

Belle Isle Classic Detroit, MI RACETC.COM

Devils Lake Antique & Classic Boat Show Devils Lake, MI WWCACBS.COM

Evening Under the Stars DeTour Village, MI DRLPS.COM

In-Water Antique & Classic Boat Show

Fox Lake, IL BLACKHAWKACBS.COM

South Arm Classics East Jordan, MI EJCHAMBER.ORG

JULY 8 – 9

Charlevoix Art & Craft Show Charlevoix, MI CHARLEVOIX.ORG

Grand Marais Arts Festival 4 Grand Marais, MN GRANDMARAISARTCOLONY.ORG/ ARTS-FESTIVAL

JULY 8 – 14

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Bicycle Tour Marquette, MI LMB.ORG

JULY 10 – 16

Ludington Offshore Classic Ludington, MI OFFSHORECLASSIC.COM

JULY 12 – 16

Great Lakes Sea Kayak 5 Symposium Grand Marais, MI GREATLAKESSEAKAYAK SYMPOSIUM.COM

JULY 13 – 15

1000 Islands International Charity Poker Run Clayton, NY 1000ISLANDSRUN.COM/CHARITY

Port Fish Day Port Washington, WI PORTFISHDAY.ORG

JULY 13 – 16

Lutsong Music Festival Lutsen, MN LUTSONGMUSICFESTIVAL.COM

Sunsplash Festival

Belle River - On the Lake, ON BELLERIVERBIA.COM

JULY 14 – 15

Bay Days Ashland, WI ASHLANDBAYDAYS.COM

JULY 14 – 16

20th Annual Lakeside Wooden Boat Show & Plein Air Art Festival Lakeside, OH LAKESIDEOHIO.COM

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Kelleys IslandFest

Kelleys Island, OH KELLEYSISLANDCHAMBER.COM

Lighthouse Blues Festival Kincardine, ON LIGHTHOUSEBLUESFESTIVAL.COM

Tawas Bay Summerfest

Tawas City, MI

TAWASSUMMERFEST.COM

JULY 14 – 23

K/D Salmon Tournament Kewaunee, WI

FACEBOOK.COM/KDSALMON2022

Michigan Brown Trout Festival Alpena, MI BROWNTROUTFESTIVAL.COM

JULY 15 10th Annual Mustang Car Show Mackinaw City, MI MACKINAWCITY.COM

Aquapalooza Charlevoix, MI VENETIANFESTIVAL.COM/ AQUAPALOOZA

Bayview Mackinac Race 6 Port Huron, MI BYCMACK.COM

Lake Ontario 300/600 Challenge Port Credit, ON LOOR.CA/LAKE-ONTARIO-300

Middle Bass Island Music Festival

Middle Bass Island, OH LAKEERIEISLANDS CONSERVANCY.ORG

Port Sanilac Summer Festival Port Sanilac, MI PORTSANILAC.NET

Vintage Boat and Auto Show Russells Point, OH INDIANLAKEACBS.COM

JULY 15 – 16

Art on the Bay Alpena, MI THUNDERBAYARTS.ORG

Can-Am Festival Sackets Harbor, NY VISITSACKETSHARBOR.COM

Door County Triathlon Door County, WI DOORCOUNTYTRIATHLON.COM

Fishing & Boating Expo New Baltimore, MI NEWBALTIMORETRADE CENTER.COM

Wine Country Classic Boat Show Hammondsport, NY WINECOUNTRYCLASSICBOATS.COM

JULY 15 – 22

Venetian Festival Charlevoix, MI VENETIANFESTIVAL.COM

JULY 16 – 20

I-LYA Junior Sail Regatta Put-in-Bay, OH I-LYA.ORG

JULY 20 – 22

Beaver Island Music Festival Beaver Island, MI BIMF.NET

JULY 21 – 22

CopperFest

Ontonagon, MI FACEBOOK.COM/ COPPERFESTONTONAGON

JULY 21 – 23

Hiawatha Music Festival

Marquette, MI HIAWATHAMUSIC.ORG

Summerfest

Indian River, MI IRCHAMBER.COM

JULY 22

Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac Chicago, IL

CYCRACETOMACKINAC.COM

JULY 22 – 23

Bay Harbor Arts Festival 7 Bay Harbor, MI BAYHARBOR.COM

Film Fest

Kelleys Island, OH KELLEYSISLANDCHAMBER.COM

JULY 22 – 28

Michigander Tour

Ann Arbor, MI LMB.ORG

JULY 24 – 30

Manistique Salmon Derby Manistique, MI DISCOVERMANISTIQUE.COM

JULY 26

“H.U.P” Canoe Race AuSable, MI OSCODACHAMBER.COM

JULY 26 – 30

I-LYA Power Boat Regatta

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

JULY 27

Sail Thru the Avenues Sidewalk Sale

Sturgeon Bay, WI STURGEONBAY.NET

JULY 27 – 29

Taste of Wisconsin Kenosha, WI TASTEOFWI.COM

JULY 27 – 30

Oswego Harborfest Oswego, NY OSWEGOHARBORFEST.COM

JULY 27 – AUG 5

Baroque on Beaver Beaver Island, MI BAROQUEONBEAVER.ORG

JULY 28

Blueberry Festival Marquette, MI DOWNTOWNMARQUETTE.ORG

Saugatuck Venetian Festival Saugatuck, MI SAUGATUCKVENETIANFEST.ORG

JULY 28 – 30

Finger Lakes Chapter’s 45th 8 Antique and Classic Boat Show Skaneateles, NY ACBS.ORG

St. Clair River Classic Offshore Powerboat Race St. Clair, MI OPARACING.ORG

Ugotta Regatta Harbor Springs, MI

LTYC.ORG/UGOTTA-REGATTA

JULY 28 – AUG 6

Coast Guard Festival Grand Haven, MI

COASTGUARDFEST.ORG

Tour Da Yoop, Eh Manistique, MI

TOURDAYOOPEH.COM

JULY 29

Lake James Classic Boat and Classic Car Show

Angola, IN

ACBS.ORG

BUZZ

National Yacht Club Gets Makeover

Dating back to 1890, Toronto’s National Yacht Club (NYC) is one of Canada’s oldest marinas. Widely recognized for its inclusive approach to teaching sailing and for hosting a number of major events, the National Yacht Club will soon have a fresh look. French company Poralu Marine was chosen to complete a $5 million renovation of NYC’s marina. This project will add modular aluminum marina docks that will accommodate 214 boats from 30 to 50 feet in length. For more information, visit THENYC.COM and PORALU.COM.

SCUTTLE

Two Lake Superior Lighthouses To Be Rehabbed

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson have announced that two historic Michigan lighthouses will make progress on long-term preservation efforts with the help of $106,000 in Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program (MLAP) grants from the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The lighthouses receiving grants are the Rock of Ages Lighthouse and the Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, both located in the U.P.

“The historic lighthouses lining our freshwater shoreline — the longest in the world — are part of the splendor of Pure Michigan,” says Governor Whitmer. “I am proud that we are making an investment today to preserve these structures, reminding us of our past and encouraging us to move towards the light.”

The Rock of Ages Lighthouse Preservation Society will receive a $46,000 grant to rehab the 132-foot-tall Rock of Ages Lighthouse by cleaning and painting the exterior.

The Keweenaw County Historical Society will receive $60,000 to rehabilitate the tower of the Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, including replacing deteriorated brick and repairing damaged plaster on the tower interior.

Funding for this program comes solely from the sale of specialty Save Our Lights license plates available from the Michigan Secretary of State. To date, the Michigan SHPO has awarded nearly $2.9 million in matching funds to help rehabilitate and preserve lighthouses for tourists and residents alike to explore and appreciate.

GREAT LAKES NEWS BOATS MUST-HAVE BUZZ EVENTS BUSINESS GREAT LAKES NEWS

EAGLE HARBOR LIGHTHOUSE COURTESY OF VISIT KEWEENAW; ROCK OF AGES BY PAUL BROWN

Eagle Harbor Lighthouse Rock of Ages Lighthouse

Lippert Introduces

SureShade Battery

Powered Bimini for Pontoon Boats

Lippert Components has introduced the latest addition to its product lineup of automatic and manual telescoping shade systems, now offering the new SureShade Battery Powered Bimini for pontoon boats.

The new system is easy to install, mounts to most pontoon rail profiles, and features a sealed receiver that mounts to the deck floor underneath the helm station. When it comes time to charge, just attach it to the 2-volt wall charger.

“We are delighted to offer pontoon boat owners the convenience of an automated Bimini top without the complicated installation of a fully power-driven shade system,” says Harcourt Schutz, senior director of aftermarket sales for Lippert. “The SureShade Battery Powered Bimini by Lippert will give more coverage versatility to pontoon boats who have traditionally not had power-driven options.”

The Battery Powered Bimini comes as a kit with everything needed for installation, and users can easily swap out the canvas for a SureShade Speed Top (sold separately).

To learn more, visit LCI1.COM.

BUSINESS Bay Marine Merges with Full Throttle Marine

Bay Marine, the family-owned luxury boat dealer with locations in Wisconsin, Illinois and Florida, has acquired Waukegan’s third-generation, family-owned marine business, Full Throttle Marine. Through the merger, Bay Marine will increase capabilities to better service the greater Chicagoland boating community, while continuing to provide the care and personalized attention that comes with a family-owned business.

Founded by Lloyd Hannum Jr., Full Throttle Marine began as Auto Marine Specialists, Inc. and has been in operation as a marine service company for over 60 years. In 1973, Hannum Jr. sold the business, but his son, Steve Hannum, restarted the company on his own in 1977 as Skokie Marine Service. In 2005, Hannum joined forces with Christine Cowhey, and they changed the business name to Full Throttle Marine, settling in their current Waukegan location. Eventually, both Hannum’s son, Mike Hannum, a seasoned mechanic, and Cowhey’s son, Brendan Cowhey, a customer service professional, joined the family business and helped grow Full Throttle Marine into the strong marine service provider it is today.

“We are extremely excited to have the entire Full Throttle Marine team become part of the Bay Marine family,” says Matt Felhofer, co-owner of Bay Marine. “Steve and Christine are dedicated to exceptional service and work tirelessly in that pursuit. They have expanded their family business to be one of the most prominent marine service providers in the area, and we look forward to working with them to provide Chicago boaters with exceptional and comprehensive services.”

Visit BAYMARINE.NET.

BOATS

Riviera 585 SUV Makes Global Debut

The newest addition to Riviera’s SUV collection — the 585 SUV — debuted at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in May and will have her U.S. debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October. The 585 delivers luxury, comfort and a blue water hull pedigree with the sporting cockpit and single-level living features of a Sports Motor Yacht.

Three large staterooms and three bathrooms deliver exceptional comfort and luxury, while the expansive watersports space offers room, and then some, with a hydraulic lift swim platform. The semi-enclosed alfresco deck and forward entertaining space with a wraparound lounge offer plenty of room to relax, with a barbecue center, cool box and ice maker forward on port and starboard. Twin electric sunroofs are built into the alfresco hardtop for added light and connection to the outdoors.

Inside, the salon sports a full U-shape gourmet galley, wetbar and lounge, while the captain will enjoy a fully equipped helm.

To learn more, visit RIVIERAAUSTRALIA.COM.

Great Lakes Icon Gordon Lightfoot Passes Away

Canadian folk singersongwriter and Great Lakes icon Gordon Lightfoot passed away in May 2023 at the age of 84. Lightfoot was widely known for popularizing the 1975 Great Lakes shipwreck in his 1976 hit, “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.”

“To Mr. Lightfoot, ‘The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald’ was more than just a hit song,” the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum writes. “Gordon truly cared about the families of the tragedy that occurred on that night of November 10, 1975. That was proven in 2015 when he came to Whitefish Point for the 40th remembrance of the sinking, but he came a day early. He wanted to meet and talk with the surviving Fitzgerald family members. He did not want to be the focus. Gordon knew that was a day for the families, he was just that selfless and classy. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society will always be grateful for his kindness to us and the family members of the Edmund Fitzgerald, and it seems from now on every time the bell of the Fitzgerald tolls, his spirit will be a part of those 29 chimes.”

Born on November 17, 1938, in Orillia, Ontario, Lightfoot’s career spans over six decades. His signature songs like “If You Could Read My Mind,” “Sundown,” and “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” have become timeless classics.

Sea Ray’s New SLX 280 Outboard Offers Comfort and Space

As the next evolution of its SLX Series, Sea Ray welcomes the new SLX 280 Outboard, featuring an optimized layout, innovative technologies, unmatched performance and convenient storage.

Just over 31 feet, the boat sports an athletic yet elegant style that is crafted for ultimate functionality and space. Deeper seating and creative storage options like the cockpit floor compartment make your day on the water more comfortable, while upgrade options include a cockpit drawer fridge and end table with a charging station, dry storage, cupholders, and an optional Power Tower that can be enhanced with Fusion Signature Series speakers.

Relax on the lounge-style bow seats (with an option to add a convertible sunpad) or on the expanded sunpad at the transom, where an integrated cooler and storage are conveniently placed.

Powered by twin Mercury 250 Verado engines, the helm includes a Dual Digital Dash with standard 9-inch Simrad touchscreen displays, Mercury Marine engine data, Active Trim control & monitoring, CZone digital switching and a Fusion stereo system.

To learn more, visit SEARAY.COM.

MUST-HAVE

Sirius Signal Launches New Compact

Lithium Floating Flashlight

The Kadey-Krogen Group Acquires American Tugs

The Kadey-Krogen Group, builder of Krogen trawlers and the performance cruising brand Summit Motoryachts, has acquired American Tugs.

American Tugs was founded in 1999 by marine industry veterans who recognized the need for highquality, U.S.-built coastal cruisers. Today, American Tugs builds five models ranging from 36 to 48 feet, and has delivered more than 250 cruising boats to date, as well as five commercial vessels.

“It’s really an exciting opportunity for us to acquire such a successful boat builder, led by a team that we’ll be collaborating with on day one,” says Tucker West, Kadey-Krogen Group president. “They have a healthy backorder of boats, a great reputation in this market, and most importantly a customer base that really loves their American Tugs.

The company will explore sales in the Great Lakes region through its existing relationship with yacht broker Schwartz & Co. Yacht Sales. The acquisition will not affect the production of either the American Tugs, Krogen or Summit brands, and The Kadey-Krogen Group plans to continue to market each brand separately.

More information can be found at KADEYKROGEN.COM and AMERICANTUGS.COM.

Leading SOS distress signal device manufacturer, Sirius Signal, has designed the world’s only single-cell CR-123 IP68-rated floating flashlight. The F1-CR123 80 lumen Floating Flashlight is a powerful, fully submersible waterproof floating flashlight that fits in the palm of your hand. A rugged recyclable ABS housing encloses the single pre-installed user-replaceable CR-123 battery. Electronic module components are high-grade anti-corrosive machine-billeted aluminum.

“Most comparable lights use three AAA alkaline batteries, which always wind up corroding and leaking,” says CEO Anthony Covelli. “We wanted to create what has never been done: A single-cell lithium-powered light.” With a simple twist on, the flashlight is ready to operate in any emergency. It’s triple O-ring sealed and features a bright two-tone exterior finish. The flashlight has a 12-hour battery life.

For more info, visit SIRIUSSIGNAL.COM.

MasterCraft Launches Surf To Save Lives Campaign Supporting St. Jude

MasterCraft’s new Surf to Save Lives campaign will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by raising awareness and supporting the work of St. Jude in researching and treating childhood cancer.

From now until October 1, MasterCraft will donate $1 to St. Jude for every minute of on-water activity logged on the MasterCraft app, with a maximum donation of $75,000. Boaters can raise funds while enjoying their favorite towsports like wakeboarding, waterskiing or wakesurfing. This fundraising and awareness campaign is not limited to only MasterCraft owners; any boat owner can participate by simply downloading the MasterCraft app and logging their towing time.

Former professional wakeboarder, TV host and MasterCraft ambassador Alexa Score will serve as the spokesperson for the Surf to Save Lives campaign.

“As a survivor of childhood leukemia, a type of blood cancer, this cause is near and dear to my heart,” Score says. “Having benefited from life-saving medical care myself, I am proud to be involved in this campaign and to combine my love of watersports with the opportunity to contribute to the vital work being done by St. Jude to help kids with cancer. I hope everyone joins me by downloading the MasterCraft Connect app and getting out on the water to help us help St. Jude carry out its mission.”

For more info, visit MASTERCRAFT.COM/STJUDE.

BOATS

In Memory of Great Lakes Cruising Giant Jim Acheson

Former Great Lakes Cruising Club

Commodore James (Jim) Acheson of Port Huron, Michigan, passed away in April at the age of 86. Acheson cruised the Great Lakes for over 60 years. His classic 57-foot Pacemaker motoryacht Lady J carried him over 67,000 miles throughout the Great Lakes, Canadian Maritimes, Bahamas and Cuba. He was a lifelong advocate and philanthropist in support of recreational and commercial marine interests across the Great Lakes and beyond.

Acheson was active in the Great Lakes Cruising Club (GLCC) and the United States Power Squadrons (USPS), now known as America’s Boating Club. Acheson joined the Great Lakes Cruising Club in 1968 and became a member-atlarge of the board of directors in 1981. He was elected commodore in 1988. After his watch, he was elected fleet captain, an office he held for 25 years.

At GLCC, Acheson codified

uniform standards for the club and promoted proper flag etiquette. He also computerized the club’s membership records and oversaw the computerization of the club’s 1,000-plus municipal and wilderness Harbor Reports, or cruising guides, which together represent the most extensive cruising information available for the Great Lakes region. He also wrote the first “Port Captain’s Handbook.”

Acheson was a member of the Power Squadrons for 61 years, where he had been a district commander and chaired four national committees. He also taught boating courses at his local squadron.

Acheson’s significant philanthropic contributions to Port Huron include a Maritime Center, a new YMCA and a women’s hospital wing. In June of 2023, The Community Foundation of St. Clair County, Port Huron, Michigan, gave Acheson a posthumous lifetime achievement award for his personal support and dedication to philanthropy.

Michigan Announces Fresh Coast Maritime Challenge

A first-of-its-kind program in the U.S. to help advance sustainable maritime travel will put Michigan at the forefront of the electric boating revolution. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced the Fresh Coast Maritime Challenge, which establishes a grant program that offers companies assistance to support the decarbonization and electrification of both marinas and watercraft across the state.

The program offers commercial enterprises of all sizes a cost-effective and sustainable way to transition watercraft from diesel to electric power and is a step toward Michigan’s goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. Key developments include the deployment of an AQUA superPower rapid charger at Elk Rapids Marina, the conversion of a Mackinac Island Ferry Company passenger ferry to zero-emissions electric, and upgrading the Beaver Island Ferry to be more efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly.

Visit MICHIGANBUSINESS.ORG/MOBILITY-FUNDING to learn more.

B3 Bean Bag Bucketz

A day at the beach calls for fun games! Bean Bag Bucketz is a portable, easy-to-setup game where two or more players compete to score the most points by landing bean bags in baskets of varying sizes and difficulties. It’s a versatile game that tests your accuracy and strategy while providing non-stop entertainment for players of all ages. Game comes with carrying bag, 16 bean bags, the game tower and seven buckets. $62.39 AT AMAZON.COM

GREAT GEAR

Luna Sea Sports Cush-it

The Luna Sea Sports Cush-it is a must-have accessory for anglers seeking both comfort and functionality. Designed to provide a secure grip on the rod butt, this innovative cushion eliminates the discomfort and fatigue that can come from extended fishing sessions. Its floating design ensures that even if dropped, it stays afloat and can be easily retrieved. With its durable construction and easy installation, Cush-it enhances fishing experiences by reducing strain and providing peace of mind. Available in a variety of colors and models, including Elite Pro 2, Elite Bass, All Species, Big Bass, Inshore and more. FROM $12.95 – $87.74 AT LUNASEASPORTS.COM

SeaSucker Side Mirror Mount

Place a mirror wherever you need it onboard with SeaSucker’s versatile Side Mirror Mount. Virtually any boat or PWC can now have an extra set of eyes without permanent installation. Made in the USA, the Side Mirror Mount uses SeaSucker’s innovative Vacuum Mount technology. Unlike an industrial suction cup that loses holding power soon after it’s applied, the 4.5-inch mount holds up to 120 pounds when installed on a clean, non-porous surface such as glass, acrylic or fiberglass — often for days. Made of rugged UV-stabilized materials with stainless steel hardware. $75/ONE OR $135/TWO AT SEASUCKER.COM

XTRATUF Après Fish Slide

The Après Fish Slide sandal is the perfect footwear for boaters who love both comfort and style. Crafted with durable and waterresistant materials, these lightweight sandals are ideal for wet or dry conditions. Built from an innovative BIOLITE material, an eco-friendly and biodegradable injection molded EVA foam that’s lightweight, durable, supportive and provides excellent SRC-rated slip resistance. The slip-on design and adjustable strap ensure a secure and customized fit. With a cushioned footbed and nonmarking outsole, they provide all-day comfort and traction. Available in black (unisex sizing) and women’s Pink Tie Dye. $50 AT XTRATUF.COM

Shurhold Microfiber Pad Base Cover

HullMagic Clinging Foam Cleaner & Stain Remover

Spray on, wipe off — it’s that easy! HullMagic is a safe and powerful cleaner that works on all fiberglass, non-skid, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, chrome and Plexiglas surfaces. With one application, its unique clinging foam cleans stubborn stains effortlessly. And with its clever bottle design, you can spray with it upside down, which is great for cleaning the underside of hulls. Made in America. $17.99/750 ML AT HULLMAGIC.COM

No longer worry about scratching delicate boat surfaces while cleaning. Shurhold’s Microfi ber Pad Base Cover adds a gentle but thorough touch to vessel detailing. Slide the cover onto the Swivel Base Pad (not included - $29.98) and start cleaning! Microfi ber fabric lifts and traps dirt easily and holds massive amounts of soapy water, so fewer trips to the bucket are needed. $14.98 AT SHURHOLD.COM

DELAMAR Traverse City

New life breathed into boutique Traverse City hotel.

Occupying valuable real estate on the picturesque West Bay in Traverse City, Michigan, this mid-century modern hotel — constructed in 1968 and once known as the Holiday Inn West Bay Beach — was revered for its spectacular waterfront and popular nightclub.

These days, the hotel has a new name, DELAMAR Traverse City, and a fresh new look. Following a 2018 acquisition by Greenwich Hospitality Group, the renovation has elevated the iconic hotel to an upscale waterfront destination.

So when I was invited to check out the new remodel and spend a weekend in Traverse City, which just happened to be the city’s Restaurant Week, I jumped at the opportunity.

A welcome stay

What makes Traverse City so beloved for visitors who travel far and wide to spend time in

this Northern Michigan hamlet is not only its wide variety of activities no matter the season, its culinary scene, breathtaking landscapes like nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes, many art galleries and boutique shops, as well as its first-class wineries and breweries. What makes Traverse City truly special is its friendly atmosphere that instantly makes you feel welcome.

Case in point, when we checked into DELAMAR, we were greeted with large smiles from the hotel staff and a glass of complimentary rosé. Accompanied by my sister, Amy, I had a whole weekend of Traverse City exploration planned. To easily get around town, the hotel offers convenient shuttle service to downtown (which is also within walking distance) in the event that you have one too many finely crafted local beers from, say, Right Brain Brewery, Jolly Pumpkin Brewery or MiddleCoast Brewing Company.

But first, we needed to unpack our suitcases in the newly renovated guest room. Thanks to the hotel’s unique design, all 173 rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the West Bay and beyond.

In addition to a modern refresh in the guest rooms, the remainder of the $10 million-plus renovation budget was spent on transforming the once-beloved nightclub into a fine dining experience at Artisan Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern; creating a beautiful new lounge area; as well as refreshing the common areas, including the indoor pool with sauna and hot tub, and the outdoor heated pool.

During our stay, we took advantage of the hotel’s seasonal experiences, including roasting marshmallows on the outdoor firepit and renting a cozy cabana next to the 94-degree heated outdoor pool. No matter the season, enjoy a night in, playing board games in the lounge by the roaring indoor fireplace while listening to live music performed on the grand piano. And if you stay during the summer, make sure to book a private charter with Wind Dancer & Pontoon Chartering, take a sunset cruise aboard the iconic Nauti-Cat catamaran, or rent a PWC or SUP at Aussie Watersports, all located on-site.

Amy (left) and Kate (right) at Rove Estate

DELAMAR’s new lounge features a huge fireplace and a wall of windows overlooking the bay

DELAMAR’s on-site restaurant, Artisan, offers a spacious lakeside patio

Local exploration

With our central downtown location at DELAMAR, it was a quick drive to our first excursion. No trip to Traverse City would be complete without visiting a few of the area’s more than 40 wineries.

Our first stop: Rove Estate Vineyard & Winery, offering tasty flights but even better views from the highest point in Leelanau County. Next on our tour was Left Foot Charley located in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, which was the former Northern Michigan Asylum. Sip on an array of award-winning wines in The Tasting Room or try barreled varietals in The Barrel Room.

While visiting The Village, shop at boutique retailers and antique shops in the Mercato (including Haven, Moonstruck Gardens and Sanctuary Goods), and satiate your hunger at several eateries, like Trattoria Stella, Pepenero and Pleasanton Brick Oven Bakery. For the gutsy visitor, sign up for a twilight walking tour to explore the asylum’s underground steam tunnels and abandoned cottages.

Our last stop for the day was at Chateau Chantal, a stunning winery sitting high atop Old Mission Peninsula with bay views.

Other personal fermented favorites nearby include Mari Vineyards, Bowers Harbor Vineyards and Brys Estate Vineyard for wine; and Hop Lot Brewing Co. & Beer Garden and Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant & Brewery for beer.

Culinary adventures

We were lucky to visit during Traverse City Restaurant Week, which meant all the local eateries were showing off their finest curated tasting menus. For our first meal out, we dined at Bahia, a cozy Spanish-Latin fusion tapas restaurant downtown on Union Street, where we sipped cocktails made from in-house-crafted syrups and nibbled on a tasty cheese board, mole potatoes and a chocolate almond dessert.

For breakfast or lunch, try a wide variety of crepes at Crepes and Co. on State Street, including my

personal favorites, the Salmon Crepe and the Kid’s Favorite (banana and chocolate).

Our culinary adventures culminated at DELMAR’s very own restaurant, Artisan, which “offers a Great Lakes-inspired menu that reflects the rhythm of the seasons with local seafood, farm fresh fare from an on-site garden and local farms, and homemade pastries.” We thoroughly tested the Restaurant Week menu here, beginning with Great Lakes chowder and oysters. Made with incredibly fresh ingredients, the highlight of the meal was the hamachi crudo, which was the best thing I have tasted in a very long time. That star dish was complemented by seafood paella, wild mushroom spaccatelli, and topped off by a strawberries and creme dessert with affogato. Don’t sleep on the espresso martinis — they were certainly a highlight. In the warmer months, grab a seat by the water on Artisan’s bayside patio while listening to live music.

Last stops

End your stay at DELAMAR with a stop at Artisan’s tasty breakfast buffet, followed by a yoga class at the on-site Yen Yoga + Fitness studio, a walk along the 10-mile-long TART trail just steps from the hotel, or a relaxing visit to one of the many spas in the area, such as Solitude Float and Wellness Spa or Eternal Wellness. We, however, opted for some retail therapy, strolling Front Street’s many boutiques and eateries, and indulging in some tacos and churros at Mama Lu’s Taco Shop.

With all there is to see and do in Traverse City, your travel bucket list may seem endless. But with DELAMAR as your launching pad, you’re within close reach to all that this Northern Michigan destination has to offer.

To stay at DELAMAR Traverse City, call 231947-3700 or visit DELAMAR.COM/TRAVERSE-CITY. ★

Wine flight at Left Foot Charley

Bahia’s cheese board features local ingredients

Get dinner and a view of West Bay at Artisan

Roast marshmallows on the outdoor firepit as part of the hotel’s seasonal experiences

Rent a cozy cabana next to the heated 94-degree outdoor pool

Mama Lu’s Taco Shop

DON’T HESITATE TO RENOVATE

BY CAPT. FRANK LANIER

Marine Surveys

Differences between the four basic types of marine surveys.

Most boat owners will require a marine survey at some point. Here’s a rundown of the four basic types of marine surveys, along with what to expect for each when the surveyor comes knocking.

1. Condition and value survey (C&V)

The most comprehensive assessment a vessel will likely receive, a condition and value survey (C&V) provides clients with an informed, professional opinion of a vessel’s condition and fair market value. It includes an in-depth visual inspection of structural integrity, safety equipment and all other miscellaneous onboard systems (electrical, propulsion, sanitation, potable water, navigation, etc.), as well as an out-of-water hull inspection and test run (aka sea trial).

The written report of a C&V survey provides detailed information on the vessel and contains a list of noted discrepancies or variations from the American Boat and Yacht Counsel (ABYC) and National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) standards, as well as deviations from U.S. Coast Guard requirements and prudent seamanship. The report will also contain a “recommendations” section listing safety, maintenance and repair items that need to be addressed.

2. Insurance survey

An insurance survey is conducted to assist underwriters in determining a vessel’s condition and insurability for initial policy issuance or renewal. The primary focus of an insurance survey is structural integrity, safety and inspection of system installations as per NFPA and ABYC guidelines. Safety gear is inspected and noted for compliance with federal requirements, while pertinent identification information is recorded for future reference, valuation and claims adjustment.

In many cases, an insurance survey (depending on the surveyor) is very similar in scope to a C&V survey. The biggest difference is that in some cases (typically policy renewal for an established client) underwriters will accept an “in-water” survey.

Other surveyors see failure to haul and fully inspect the hull and equipment below the waterline as a liability both to them and not in the best interest of the client and, as such, may decline to conduct a survey (insurance or otherwise) where the vessel is not hauled for inspection.

3. Appraisal inspection

The appraisal inspection is conducted to determine the fair market value of a vessel for financing, estate settlements, donations and legal cases (such as divorce). As the focus is to simply provide the surveyor’s overall impression of the vessel’s condition, an appraisal inspection is less in-depth than a C&V. The written report will contain basic vessel information, general comments on the overall condition and an estimated fair market value.

4. Damage survey

The purpose of a damage survey is to assess the extent of damage to the vessel in the event of an accident. Other items typically included are recommended repairs, estimated repair cost and determining probable cause. Boat owners should remember that when filing a damage claim the surveyor assigned by the underwriter will be representing the insurance company’s interest, which may or may not coincide with their own. Owners have the right to hire their own surveyor to inspect damage and make recommendations as to repair methods and cost estimates. Additionally (depending on the policy), underwriters may even pay for this independent surveyor, subject to deductibles and the validity of the claim.

Conclusion

Although we’ve listed the four basic types of surveys and defined the general scope and purpose of each, there is some blurring of the lines separating them. For example, a C&V survey (due to its depth and scope of inspection) can serve double or even triple duty, providing prospective buyers an assessment of a vessel, while at the same time satisfying financing and insurance requirements once the vessel is purchased.

As marine surveying is neither regulated nor licensed by any governmental agency, it’s important to research potential surveyors to determine who can best serve your needs. Reputation, word-of-mouth recommendations and viewing sample survey reports are all part of the selection process. Membership organizations such as the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS) and National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS) are also good places to start your search. ★

PHOTOS BY CAPT. FRANK LANIER

CAPT. FRANK LANIER is an award-winning journalist, boat maintenance guru and owner of Capt F.K. Lanier & Associates, Marine Surveyors and Consultants. Check out his new YouTube channel “Everything Boats with Capt Frank Lanier.” CAPTFKLANIER.COM.

Top: A C&V survey is the most comprehensive inspection a vessel will likely receive. Middle: When a loss occurs, boat owners have the right to hire their own surveyor. Bottom: An insurance survey helps determine a vessel’s suitability for insurance.

Damage surveys assess the nature and extent of damage in the event of an accident.

Stay Connected

Wi-Fi options onboard your boat.

Wi-Fi is such an ingrained part of our dayto-day lives that we want it wherever we go — even onboard our boats. The good news is that it’s easier than ever to have Wi-Fi connectivity while boating, from simple, low-cost options to more expensive but guaranteed quality services.

Land-based signal

The first and least expensive option is to utilize land-based hotspots. The downsides to hotspots are that the signal can be weak and the service can be sluggish — and that’s if there’s any service at all.

Installation of a sensitive signal receiver can produce impressive results. These devices extend the range capability of your Wi-Fi and can improve signal strength. With technology offered by companies such as Wave WiFi, the best land-based signal can be determined, received and transmitted throughout the vessel. The company offers a variety of equipment to improve Wi-Fi and cellular signals onboard, starting with its Rogue Wave series of antennas. These simple but effective devices are offered with various mounting options, making them suitable for a wide range of vessels. With an Ethernet connection, these antennas are quickly and easily installed and can instantly improve Wi-Fi signal reception. There’s an added benefit of not having to install any software and no USB requirements. Wave WiFi also offers high-powered dual-band receivers for larger vessels, such as its Freedom and Freedom LTE-A Domes, and sophisticated receivers, such as its Professional line, including the Tidal Wave DB, a dual-band Wi-Fi and cellular receiver.

Cellular

Another option available to boaters to have Wi-Fi capability onboard is with the use of cellular. This can be done through existing cellular-capable smart devices or with a router using cellular hotspots. Wave WiFi also has the equipment to help in a situation where the cellular signal may be weak. Using its Tidal Wave receiver and cellular antenna can result in strong Wi-Fi throughout the boat. The Tidal Wave can not only help cell reception but also has 2.4Ghz and 5.1-5.8Ghz Wi-Fi capability, giving both frequencies a boost in capability.

There are other cellular amplifiers on the market by manufacturers such as Shakespeare, Airwave Marine

and Digital Antenna. These amplifiers work well in coastal and near-shore situations where there is cell service. They can take a weak signal and make it usable for most applications. Many of these systems comprise a cellular antenna connected to a powered amplifier or signal booster. In the case of the Shakespeare SuperHALO, a wireless helm antenna transmits to a cellphone. It’s important to remember that these cellular boosters have a somewhat limited capability in that they will only work where there is a cellular signal.

Satellite

Satellite connectivity is another option for Wi-Fi aboard. While it can work virtually anywhere, it’s the most expensive option. There are several marine satellite communication equipment providers, such as KVH, Intellian and now Starlink.

Although Starlink’s cost for its Maritime product has fluctuated recently, it’s currently one of the most cost-effective means of satellite communication aboard. At the time of writing, Starlink’s offering to the maritime and yachting world is a compact flat antenna capable of operating while in motion. There is a one-time hardware cost of $2,500 and plans starting at $250 dollars a month with up to 220 Mbps download speed while at sea for 50GB of mobile priority access. Once you reach 50GB, there is unlimited access to “Standard” data (the same prioritization that residential subscribers utilize).

Starlink’s Maritime plan offers virtually worldwide coverage on the water with “unlimited high-speed, low-latency internet on an as-needed basis all over the world.” Its service can be paused and reactivated at any time so that you are not paying for service in the off-season. Unlike many of its competitors, the antenna is flat and comes with an easy-to-install mount. The only installation requirement is a clear and unobstructed view of the sky.

Although originally marketed to larger vessel operators, the Maritime plan is now within reach of smaller vessels. Some boaters have tried utilizing the less expensive ROAM plan but have recently been given notice by Starlink that they have been using the equipment outside of their plan.

Whether for entertainment, working remotely or staying connected, there are now many options to enjoy Wi-Fi, no matter where your boat takes you. ★

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WAVE WIFI

PHOTO BY GLENN HAYES

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 .

Starlink’s Maritime antenna

Wave WiFi’s Freedom LTE Wi-Fi and Cellular Dome (top) and MNC1250 Dual Band Wireless Network Controller (bottom).

Stuck Anchor

Deploying and retrieving an anchor, even if it gets stuck.

Anchors come in various sizes, shapes and weights. Whether using a fluke or Danforth, mushroom, plow, claw or grapnel anchor, each type is intended for specific underwater terrains, from soft bottoms to debris, hardscapes and even mooring.

Depending on where you boat, use the proper anchor. Unless the anchor is attached to an electric winch or windlass, it’s essential to make sure the ground tackle (the anchor, chain and rode) can be immediately deployed.

Deploying an anchor can be relatively easy. Setting an anchor takes practice, but once set, it may be tricky to retrieve. Here are some tips for deploying, setting and retrieving an anchor like a pro.

The rode

An anchoring system consists of an anchor and the rode. The rode usually includes a chain attached to the anchor on one end and a line attached to the other. The line is then secured to a cleat or winch onboard the vessel.

The water’s depth determines the scope, or length, of the rode. Typically, the ratio is 7:1 (7 feet of rode per 1 foot of water depth). If the depth is 10 feet, allow 70 feet of rode for winds or currents to carry the boat away from the anchor.

Most new boats don’t come with anchors, but knowing where you’ll boat determines the anchor you need. Consult the manufacturer’s guide for boat weight and length.

Manual anchoring

Position the bow of the boat into the wind or waves. Drape a thick towel or pad over the bow and drop the main anchor, allowing the rode to slide over the towel so not to damage the boat. Release the anchor and the appropriate amount of rode, then reverse the boat until the anchor sets. Never drop the main anchor over the stern — the boat may dip and become swamped.

Set the anchor using two landmarks on shore, like a GPS, chartplotter or depth finder with an alarm that sounds if the boat moves from wind or current. After changing a position, the anchor may need resetting or the rode adjusted. Periodically check for any drag or movement.

Don’t forget to tie off the line around the cleat because no one wants to “come to the end of the rode” and have to wave goodbye to their anchor.

Anchor retrieval tips

Anchoring in place may require a more prominent, heavier main bow anchor and stern anchor. Never use only a stern anchor.

Never pull up a stuck stern anchor by tying the line to a cleat and using the engine to pull it up — it may pull the stern low enough in the water to swamp the boat. If it cannot be unstuck, cut the line and replace the anchor.

To retrieve a bow anchor, pull on the line until the boat’s positioned over the anchor, then lift up; this requires the least anchor-holding energy. Move the boat forward slowly until the anchor releases. Still holding? Move the boat forward and turn at a 90-degree angle, wrap the line once around the cleat, and pull up. If needed, continue to move in a circular direction while pulling upward.

Tips for getting unstuck

1. Take the time and try a few options to raise the anchor before breaking your back or losing it altogether.

2. Reposition the boat forward and backward, then forward again and pull up to get loose, or turn the boat in a large circle to change the angle to pull up.

3. While directly over the anchor, wrap the line around the cleat again and gently increase engine power to pull up the anchor. If the engine is straining, approach this another way.

4. Use wave action to help. Wrap the line taut around the cleat as the bow dips in the bottom of a wave. The next wave will lift the boat and pull on the anchor to break loose.

5. Add an anchor-retrieval ring and buoy to the line and drive past the anchor about 45 degrees. The system will move down the rode. The buoy’s buoyancy and ring will serve as a pulley. Move forward until the buoy breaks the surface, and then pull up the anchor.

6. If you anticipate getting stuck, add a retrieval line and buoy with a large fishing net float and a strong stainless steel carabiner on the line before dropping the anchor. As before, if the anchor is stuck, use it to pull up the anchor. As a last option, buoy the line for later retrieval, or cut the line as short as possible and let the anchor become part of Davy Jones’ Locker. Safety first. ★

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. Her website is HELEN AITKENWRITER.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF RIVIERA

BENEATH THE SURFACE

BY HEATHER STEINBERGER

Catch That Ride

Seakeeper Ride is now available for refits.

Anyone who’s been in the recreational boating world for many years is accustomed to hearing the marketing claims with every new product introduction. Revolutionary! Game-changing! Boating will never be the same! Of course, it’s not always true. But when it is, the excitement is palpable, because you know your experience on the water is about to get even better. Consider Seakeeper and its recent creation of a whole new product category: Underway stabilization. When the company introduced Seakeeper Ride in August 2022, attitude control systems were suddenly no longer limited to air- and spacecraft.

Introducing Seakeeper Ride

“The introduction of Seakeeper Ride paved the way for attitude control in the marine industry,” says Andrew Semprevivo, Seakeeper’s president and CEO. “We call it a Vessel Attitude Control System. [It] responds in real-time. It is intuitive and completely autonomous.”

Initially available on new Chris-Craft, Scout and Sportsman Boats, Seakeeper Ride controls pitch, roll and yaw while the boat is underway. Every second, its sensors are taking 1,000 measurements and its proprietary blades are making 100 adjustments in order to combat wave motions. Unsurprisingly, it didn’t take long for buzz to build among the boating public. And the questions began: When would Seakeeper Ride be ready for refits?

The answer came in March of this year when aftermarket installations began with Seakeeper dealers and partners. At press time, more than 1,000 systems had been shipped, with that number increasing by the day.

“Seakeeper Ride took a few years from development to implementation,” Semprevivo says. “At launch, we partnered with Scout, Sportsman and Chris-Craft, which purchased all available inventory. Since then, we’ve been focused on ramping up inventory and were able to launch for aftermarket installations sooner than we expected.”

Seakeeper Ride refits

How will you know if a Seakeeper Ride will be compatible with your boat? For starters, you’ll need a monohull that is between 19 and 35 feet in length, with a non-stepped fiberglass hull (if you have a stepped hull, different hull type or larger boat, be patient; Semprevivo says the engineering team is currently working on compatible systems for you, too).

Your boat also must have single or dual outboard or sterndrive power with a compatible multifunction display that has an NMEA 2000 network connection. Your cruising speed must be greater than 20 mph, and your maximum speed less than 70 mph.

If you were able to put a checkmark next to each requirement, your next step will be to reach out to your nearest Seakeeper dealer. That dealer can install one of three system sizes based on your vessel: Seakeeper Ride 450 for boats 19 to 26 feet, Seakeeper Ride 525 for boats 27 to 30 feet, and Seakeeper Ride 600 for boats 31 to 35 feet.

All dealers must complete Seakeeper University, an annual online training course, to become a Seakeeper Ride dealer and maintain that status. This comprehensive training includes curriculum and tests on how the system works, the mechanical and electrical installation process, commissioning and troubleshooting.

Building and training the dealer network has been a challenge, Semprevivo says, but the company now has roughly 100 dealers across the network. More dealers are coming aboard weekly.

“Right now, Seakeeper Ride is available for aftermarket refit through a network located mostly in the United States,” he explains. “Recently, we’ve been working on onboard dealers in Canada and the Caribbean. Later this year, we’ll move into the Pacific, Asia and Europe.”

Several Great Lakes dealers like Parma Marine (below) are certified to install aftermarket Seakeeper Rides on boats. This new attitude control system provides underway stabilization.

One of those dealers is Parma Marine. Founded in 1954, the dealership is located just south of Cleveland and the Lake Erie shore in Parma, Ohio.

“Scout and the other OEMs knew about Seakeeper Ride before we did,” says Parma Marine’s Joel Morrison. “We didn’t know until about six months before the launch.

“We see a lot of product launches, especially in the tab market,” he continues. “This launch was far superior to anything we’ve seen in terms of performance. It takes an average boat and makes it above average.”

According to Morrison, a refit usually takes less than a day. If your boat has recessed trim-tab pockets or protrusions from the transom, however, be aware that you likely will be facing some additional fiberglass or custom work.

“We have to create a flat, square mounting surface,” he explains. “Then we have to repair any holes in the fiberglass. That’s the biggest hurdle we see with the aftermarket installations. You have to take off what’s there, make repairs, and start fresh with the Seakeeper Ride system.”

The average trim tab is screwed in with nuts and bolts. The Seakeeper Ride system is attached with a methacrylate adhesive.

“We have to grind to the glass layer, and the surface needs to be properly prepped, cleaned and bonded with the adhesive,” Morrison says. “Not only does the boat need to have the available space and the right structure, it needs to be structurally sound.”

The wow factor

Parma Marine first became acquainted with Seakeeper Ride at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in the fall of 2022. The team rode aboard a 25-foot Bluewater center console equipped with the system.

“It was unbelievable,” Morrison recalls. “The system absolutely works as advertised. Most of our customers are new to boating since COVID. Boating can feel daunting, with a lot of moving parts. This takes one moving part, one big variable, out of the equation. It gives them peace of mind.”

Semprevivo says Seakeeper Ride had to turn away people at the 2022 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and the 2023 Miami International Boat Show who wanted to leave with the new system in hand. Demand is high, and so far, reviews are glowing.

“The feedback has been incredible,” he says. “It’s humbling to watch our years of hard work pay off. OEMs, dealers and media were able to get that ‘wow’ moment through demos at the shows, [but] now we’re getting to see rave customer reviews posted online, owners doing their own demo videos and talking about the product… we’re still very excited every time we get to see another reaction.”

To find your local dealer, visit RIDE.SEAKEEPER.COM/FIND-US. For more information about Seakeeper and Parma Marine, visit SEAKEEPER.COM and PARMAMARINE.COM. ★

Great

Bay Marine: BAYMARINE.NET

CenterPointe Yacht Services: CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM

Full Throttle Marine: FULLTHROTTLEMARINE.NET

Parma Marine: PARMAMARINE.COM

Spicer Marine Basin: SPICERMARINEBASIN.COM

Lakes Seakeeper Ride Refitters

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

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 46'9"

Beam: 14'2"

Max Draft: 3'10"

Dry Weight: 29,762 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 396 gals.

Water Capacity: 79 gals.

Power: 2 x Volvo Penta

D6-IPS 650 / 2 x Volvo

Penta 480 hp / 2 x Volvo

Penta 353 kW

MSRP: $1,514,394

CRANCHI.COM

DEALERS

Yacht Works

YACHTWORKS.COM

Poliseno Marine POLISENOMARINE.CA

Cranchi A46

Italian relaxation.

Italian boat builder Cranchi Yachts has actualized the ultimate dayboat in its newest luxury tender, the A46.

Subtle but elegant, the vertical bow is an impressive look and is backed by dual Volvo IPS 650 drives, joystick control and a bow thruster. Designed by Aldo Cranchi and Christian Grande, the A46 is a premium handcrafted cocktail of materials, magnificent teaks and matte finishes offset by a brilliant shine and dominating focal points.

Triple helm seats address the distinctive helm punctuated by two Garmin multifunction displays. Fusion stereo, Bluetooth wireless puck chargers throughout the vessel and a host of other digital delights make this a tech-savvy dream.

The cockpit is a large open space, sheltered by a hardtop that completes the bold elegant lines of the wraparound windscreen. The rigid roof opens in seconds with a blade system. At the bow, a second

sunbed provides another social area featuring a built-in refrigerator and Mediterranean sunshade.

Prep snacks and meals at the centerline galley, complete with a stove, sink, refrigerator and ice machine. Dine alfresco while seated around the table on either the aft sofa or the large stern sundeck with an adjustable backrest.

Accommodations are found below, including a forward settee that can be transformed into a queen-size bed, an aft full-beam cabin, as well as a head complete with a separate shower.

Yacht Works has imported a couple of these models, with more on the way, and Kurtis Sandmire says customers are drawn to the fold-down balconies, where both sides can be instantly opened with a servo-electric mechanism, as well as the Besenzoni swim platform that can move up and down. Alfresco dining, dancing, relaxation and sunbathing — the list of leisure activities is endless. ★

Moomba CRAZ

Crazy fun.

Getting the lead out is precisely what Moomba has done with the new 22-foot CRAZ model. You won’t need extra weight bags to throw a surf wave, thanks to a built-in 4,500-pound ballast that makes long pockets with respectable clean lips.

Designed and priced to attract those newer to wakeboarding and surfing, you won’t go hungry when it comes to power and technology. Moomba uses the potent Raptor by Indmar, an engine cranking 410-hp and best-in-class torque where you need it most, between 2500 and 3500 RPMs. That sweet spot of 11.2 or 11.3 mph for surfing requires reliability. Indmar uses dual spark plugs to deliver maximum low-RPM torque with class-leading fuel efficiency and low emissions. And the engine is surprisingly quiet, all the better to hear the richness of the music from nine Wet Sounds speakers, including the new Revolution Series.

Moomba’s 7-inch color touchscreen display offers one-touch toggling between home, control, AutoWake

and Navigation display views. If you are new to AutoWake, this is a must-have. Set up profiles for each user, and the computer figures out where the weight should be shifted to optimize the wake. Moomba’s Flow Surf system responds accordingly, and this just about eliminates that throttle-adjusting game nearly every new skipper goes through.

CRAZ is not only easy on the eyes, but it’s also easy on the feet. Standard non-skid flooring called Gator Step provides extra cushion, traction and years of durability. Premium board racks, including the Roswell Triton II featuring new R-Flex suspension technology, preserve your board investment.

With a 70-gallon fuel tank, your riders will wear out before you run out of fuel. And when it’s time to go home, a simple touch of the home leveling feature lets the boat adapt to rough water conditions with ease and provides a smooth and stable ride back to the dock or ramp. ★

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 22'

Beam: 8'6"

Weight: 4,500 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 70 gals.

Std. Power: Indmar 6.2L

Raptor 400

Base Price: $105,000

MOOMBA.COM

DEALERS

The Boat House

BOATHOUSEH20.COM

Buckeye Sports Center

BUCKEYESPORTS CENTER.COM   Watch the video at LAKELANDBOATING.COM!

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 30'10"

Beam: 10'

Draft: 25"

Weight: 10,500 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 200 gals.

Water Capacity: 41 gals.

Power: 2 x Yamaha F300 outboards

Fully Featured Price: $373,937

SOLARABOATS.COM

CONTACT

Solara Boats 253-839-5213

INFO@SOLARABOATS.COM

Solara S-310 CW

Dimple science.

Golfers understand Dimple Science. When dimples are added to a golf ball, it creates a tiny layer of air that significantly cuts down drag, resulting in a much smoother ball flight. Engineers of Solara Boats call this design Laminar Flow Interrupters built into the hull, which provides outstanding cornering ability and when combined with a deep-V forward and tapered bow flare creates a vessel strong enough to handle rough water with ease.

Solara’s S-310 Center Walkaround (CW) has that sporty swagger that excels at fishing, overnighting and entertaining. Powered by twin Yamaha F300 outboards, this new model is quick to plane and provides high efficiency when coupled with an advanced double-stepped hull.

Astute yachtsmen may recognize the dimple effect from Cutwater and Ranger Tugs, all part of Solara’s parent company that has decades of boat building experience. Solara is bringing a fresh

look to the water, incorporating many features as standard to enhance your boating pleasure.

At the helm, dual Garmin 8612 chartplotters display everything from position to function, and integrated bow and stern cameras come in handy when docking. The walkaround layout not only makes fishing easier but also makes access easy for passengers to reach the spacious open bow that features a removable table, seating for six, Fusion stereo controls and 11 drink holders.

Behind the helm is a cockpit with six rod holders, eight rocket launchers, a large livewell, a built-in fishbox and EVA traction decking.

Nighttime aboard the Solara S-310 CW should be comfortable. The large V-berth converts into lounge seating, with a fully enclosed head with an electric flush toilet and shower adjacent. A galley with refrigerator/freezer, a flatscreen TV, and heat and air rounds out the amenities. H

Sportsman Open 302 Center Console

Go places.

Sportsman’s Open 302 Center Console is one of the most thoughtfully designed boats on the market with features that toggle between family dayboating or hard-charging fishing. Starting with an innovative infused fiberglass stringer system laid out in a grid instead of traditional longitudinal stringers, the extra strength meshes nicely with the optional Seakeeper 2 gyroscopic stabilizer.

A fast glance at the helm and the astute eye wonders what’s missing. The answer is clutter that comes from dozens of switches for everything from lighting to bilge pumps. Instead, the buttons are all relegated to one of two Garmin touchscreen displays, and there are two redundant backups in the unlikely event the power goes out on the screen.

Another area worth bragging about is the head. Accessed through a side helm door, every inch of space is designed to make families feel right at home, such as the flushable marine head,

cushioned cabin seating where small children might catch a nap and the large horizontal window letting in plenty of sunlight.

Like many bow area seating arrangements today, a center table on an electric actuator can be raised or lowered. The winning difference on the Open 302 are the removable backrests Sportsman developed; instead of a slotted or fold-away configuration, these backrests have sturdy anchor points.

Tom Mack, founder of South Shore Marine on Lake Erie, notes Sportsman’s nice balance between a thoughtfully designed family-friendly dayboat and excellent fishing content — all in an extremely attractive price range.

Twin 300 Yamaha or Mercury Verado engine packages are available. With a 295-gallon fuel tank, 100-quart built-in console cooler and a couple of pressurized aquarium livewells to keep bait fresh, this is a boat that will have you going places. ★

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 30'2"

Beam: 10'4"

Draft: 22"

Dry Weight: 8,245 lbs

Fuel Capacity: 295 gals.

Water Capacity: 30 gals.

Max Power: 700 hp

MSRP: Contact dealer

SPORTSMANBOATS MFG.COM

DEALERS

South Shore Marine

SOUTHSHOREMARINE.COM

Spicer Marine Basin SPICERMARINEBASIN.COM

MARLOW 62E

When wants overcome needs.

Let’s admit it, no one needs a yacht, but we do want them. And when we get a chance to have one, we usually want to make it our own in some aspect. The ability to customize your ride is a necessity nowadays, so finding a builder to help you realize your desires is paramount.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY CAPT. TOM SERIO

COLOR ME THIS

This is evident in a new 2023 Marlow Explorer 62E. The very first thing that grabs your attention is the hull color. It’s not the standard deep blue that Marlow is known for. No, it’s a departure from that and Marlow’s other typical colors on the paint palette. It’s a brand-new color from Awlgrip, created specifically for Marlow and this owner. Going by the name of “Speed Blue Pearl,” it’s a light, metallic pearl blue finish that seems to glow in the evening lights and pop out during the day. It attracts attention. It grabs your eye and pulls you in. You want to see more.

The point is not so much that the hull has a different color, it’s the fact that the builder is willing to work with the owner and vendors to deliver the dream.

Selection of colors, fabrics and finish are pretty standard choices. Furnishings may be another factor. In this 62E’s salon, the owners opted for the starboard Ultraleather L-sofa and two swivel barrel chairs to port. It would have been easy for Marlow to just put another sofa here, but that’s not what the owners wanted. A custom coffee table has twin ottomans, which also double as storage units. Recessed lighting is a given, but having it in assorted colors like blue, red, green, etc. satisfied the owner’s requirements.

INTERIOR CONCEPTS

You would think the salon would be impassable with all of the furnishings. Marlow has made some engineering changes over the years to maximize living space. The builder redesigned the duct chases for the engine room to run in the aft corners; this eliminated the ducting behind the sofa, allowing Marlow to push the sofa as far outward as the salon wall, taking advantage of every inch of the 19-foot, 6-inch beam. Building a pop-up lift for the 55-inch LED TV on the port side allows for comfy viewing and hides the TV when not in use.

Up a few steps is the galley, dinette and lower helm. I have seen so many different layouts of this area on various Marlow yachts, so you pretty much are only limited by your own imagination. Offering up ample counterspace by design, the U-shape galley also allows for plenty of overhead cabinets that are slightly set back to prevent head bumps.

Four undercounter Sub-Zero fridge and freezer drawers, a full-size Dacor oven, a four-burner Dacor induction cooktop, an overhead vent, a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher and a stainless steel sink make this galley the envy of some homeowners.

Forward to port is the L-shape dinette with fold-out teak table. With the lower helm in close proximity, it keeps the operator near family and guests and is beneficial on long runs.

Situated between the dinette and lower staircase to starboard, the lower helm is fairly compact but contains all the controls for safe passage. Twin 17-inch Garmin multifunction displays are housed in an angled dash for enhanced viewing. Throttle, joystick and thruster controls are neatly placed together for one-handed operation. An overhead console houses breakers and displays that don’t need constant monitoring but are great to have nearby.

SLUMBER LAND

That lower staircase leads below to the accommodation area with three staterooms, including a full-beam primary suite midship with a king berth. Here the owner decided against the typical vanity or lounge sofa but opted for two 10-drawer curved dressers, as they intend to cruise and need space for clothes. Add in four cedar-lined hanging closets and you could live here full time.

The Jack and Jill head has a toilet and a sink in each, separated by a central shower stall.

In the forepeak is a VIP stateroom with cabinets and teak planking with a matte finish. A third stateroom to port has double berths.

Lower accommodations are all finished in maple interior wood with a matte finish. Trim and accent pieces are in teak.

MUST-HAVE

One owner-driven request was to power this 62E with a Volvo IPS package. Understand that this is the first application of the Volvo IPS system in a Marlow yacht. It was a large undertaking from the design changes to make sure it worked. The owner was very familiar and comfortable with the Volvo system as his previous boat had it. And being a hands-on owner/operator, he wanted the Dynamic Positioning System (DPS), trim controls and everything else he used prior. Considering that the engine room is midship, this IPS installation used lengthy jackshafts to get the power back to the pods. I must say that Marlow did a yeoman’s job in delivering not just the unique installation but efficiency. A Marlow rep stated that they “were pleased with the results.”

Sure, the 62E has the power to get up to approximately 25 knots, thanks to the 1,000-hp IPS 1350 engines, but these yachts aren’t made to be speed demons. Spend the time cruising and enjoying the journey. Set it at 11.3 knots for a fuel burn of 22 gph and a 1,074 nm range. Or see a 2,174 nm range at 7.8 knots and 8 gph. Even at higher speeds, the 62E responds with impressive numbers.

TOPPING IT OFF

Taking the wheel at the flybridge helm station is a delight. With the integrated

hardtop and three-sided semi-enclosed bridge with aft door (side windows can be open or glassed in), the vantage point is exceptional. Twin Stidd helm chairs are comfortable and allow a companion to join the operator. Twin 22-inch Garmin displays along with engine monitors and others keep this dash uncluttered.

Aft is an L-shape settee with hi-gloss teak table to starboard and a cushioned bench seat to port. The owner opted for five electric fans to circulate the air on those warmer days.

On the aft deck is a propane grill station with a sink and a corner fridge to port. Add in a davit crane and store a tender up here, or keep it open for more lounging room.

With main walkaround decks, you can be from stem to stern in no time, allowing guests to roam from the Portuguese bridge seat on the foredeck to the eight-seat teak dining table on the aft deck.

Aft in the transom is a beach club that could have multiple uses. It has two berths for any crew that might be along or for extra guests. There’s a head and shower for cleanup, a fridge and a 19-inch TV. If you’re planning on enjoying water activities, it’s easy to cleanup without walking through the yacht all wet. Or this space can be used as a storage area for gear or provisions.

Marlow 62E

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 72'1"

Beam: 19'6"

Draft: 4'10"

Weight: 91,200 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 2,000 gals.

Water Capacity: 370 gals.

Power: 2 X Volvo D13 IPS 1350 @ 1,000 hp/each

MSRP: Contact Marlow Yachts

MARLOWYACHTS.COM

CONTACT

Marlow Marine Sales

MARLOWMARINE.COM

Custom hull paint is just WOW! Incorporated new engine package as requested by owner.

Great utilization of space on a 62-foot yacht.

When you see an owner’s dream come together with a boat builder who doesn’t like to say no (even if they have to at times), you can then decide if a Marlow yacht is for you. You may not need it, but you will want it. H

Pursuit S 248

Don’t let the size fool you.

by Capt.

out with its new Pursuit S 248.

Sizing up

Even though the S 248 is the “littlest” entry in Pursuit’s Sport Center Console line (there’s also the Dual Console and Offshore boat lines), Pursuit made sure the S 248 could stand up to the expectations of the others in her pedigree. Robust construction, excellent seakeeping ability and smart use of the layout make the S 248 a real contender in the small boat sector.

Pursuit has made it easy for you to choose this boat, as it has sized up the vessel and made some decisions for you. For instance, it comes with only one engine option, a single Yamaha F300 outboard. Don’t let that fool you. This V6, 4.2L powerplant delivers with nimble speed (we hit 45.8 mph wide open, same as Pursuit advertises) and is fuel efficient (we saw slightly faster speeds at the RPM breaks than what Pursuit states). Harnessing all of that power is a deep-V hull with sharp bow entry, dual lifting strakes that run almost all the way aft, and generous chines that keep the lateral motions in check.

Tom Serio

Many people have made the comment “Size matters!” when it comes to various things in life. I don’t think it’s so much about the size itself but what you do with the size that matters. Pursuit Boats has figured that

I was riding on a brand-new S 248, right before it was to be packed up and shipped to a dealer. The morning breeze kicked up the bay to a short yet stiff chop. No fear, as the S 248 handled it as expected. Even the large wakes from passing boats didn’t toss the crew around, as the design of the hull deftly handled the whitewash.

All hands on deck

On deck, it’s evident the S 248 is constructed with the same level of craftsmanship and care as the other Pursuit offerings. A hand-laminated hull, infused fiberglass structural grid and transom system make this one solid ride. To the eye, clean lines, plenty of grabrails and ample seating are all traits of the Pursuit brand. Up forward is an open bow layout. Sure, there are port and starboard facing bench seats. There’s also well-padded coaming for the backrests, longitudinal grabrails for security and several cup holders. Well played are the rotating backrests, turning each bench seat into a lounger. Add in the filler cushions and, presto, it’s a large sunpad. There’s plenty of storage on the sides, under the seats and in the deck.

Niceties abound

Pursuit puts a beach ladder in the bow. It’s secured and covered by a hatch that also conceals the anchor gear and windlass (on a 24-foot boat? Wow!). It makes it so easy to access the beach from

the bow without having to get too wet. With the anchor centered, the pull-out ladder is just to the starboard side, easily accessible. Another surprise is the seat in front of the helm that can fit two and has armrests. Unhook the latch and the forward part opens into a small step-down room with a SaniPottie (upgrade to the electric marine head — you’ll thank me later). It’s large enough to stand and change from your beach wear into evening attire. There’s also a dedicated storage spot for the fiberglass bow table and stand.

Command and control

At the center of it all is the helm, nicely sized to fit two Garmin 8612 12-inch displays, along with a Yamaha display and two banks of rocker switches. With the Yamaha Digital Electric Steering and Helm Master, shift/throttle control of the S 248 is exceptional.

Protecting the helm is a three-sided enclosure and fiberglass hardtop. The enclosure has a single-pane forward window with a beefy wiper and a washdown nozzle (great idea!). All three panes are tempered safety glass, which will hold up better than other items.

Comfort is found in the diamond-stitched, premium twin helm seats, with bolsters, armrests and fore/aft adjustments for maximum comfort.

The hardtop is on a rigid frame and houses speakers, LED lights and rocket launchers. It also has mounting hooks for the optional fore/aft sunshades.

Getting down to business

The business end is the cockpit. For one, it’s a great place to relax on a cruise. With the fold-out transom seat, you can have a nice perch to take in the sights or fold it up flush for more cockpit space. When open, the coaming section raises just a few inches to enhance comfort on your back.

Accessing the water or engine is easy thanks to Pursuit’s design of twin transom platform extensions that flank the motor. The platform area is so big there’s an in-deck box for fish or lines installed, as well as room from side to side to fight the big one. A boarding ladder is housed in the starboard platform, suitable for access via water or if the boat is on land or trailer.

There’s storage for a 45-quart Yeti cooler under the helm seat stand. What’s neat is that Pursuit has it on a roller track, so no scuffing the deck or grinding sand when it’s pulled out.

For more enjoyment, there’s an optional recessed pop-up ski/ tow pylon solidly mounted, so pull away.

Tight lines

If fishing is your game, the S 248 will satisfy the heartiest of anglers. A tackle drawer is conveniently located in the seat stand over the cooler, 12 rod holders are included, a 24-gallon lighted recirculating livewell is in the port corner, and an aft cockpit door on the starboard side is for boarding people or big fish. By the way, the door has an outward flap that assists in draining water off the decks along with the standard scuppers.

All around is more storage, including side space for rods and twin 11-gallon deck storage for fish.

A center deck hatch gives access to the machinery space that houses the batteries, fishbox pumps and pickup connections to the fuel tank.

Pursuit does allow you to make some custom choices, from the colors of the hull and bootstripe to the upholstery.

Even though Pursuit considers the S 248 an entry-level ride, once you see and feel it, you’ll know it can compete with others. See, size doesn’t matter. ★

Pursuit S 248

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 25'8"

Beam: 8'6"

Draft (up/down): 1'10"/3'

Fuel Capacity: 120 gals.

Water Capacity: 20 gals.

MSRP: $164,575

PURSUITBOATS.COM

DEALERS

CenterPointe Yacht Services

CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM

South Shore Marine SOUTHSHOREMARINE.COM

Walstrom Marine WALSTROM.COM

Large hardtop with speakers and lights. Versatile for cruising and fishing. Great handling boat that’s fun to drive. Comfortable helm seats.

Can’t say there are any — it’s a well-designed, purpose-built boat.

FamIly-FrIendly FIshIng Boats

Six options to please the anglers, both big and small, in your family.

BY DAVE MULL

SaIlfIsh 312 Center Console

Based in Cairo, Georgia, Sailfish is in its fourth decade of making fishing boats. The new 312 Center Console (CC) doubles for serious pursuit of gamefish and comfortable, safe, family fun.

With a 30-foot, 6-inch hull, the 312 features Sailfish’s Variable-Degree Stepped Hull, designed to slice through waves while evening out choppy seas at rest. A wraparound windshield keeps the crew dry while running. A plush seating area in the bow, a portside dive door with a foldaway grab handle and a transom door with a boarding ladder and a console head with more than 6 feet of headroom help this boat serve as a family cruiser.

The 312 CC has a 9-foot, 9-inch beam and is rated for up to 800 hp. Twin Yamaha 300 outboards pushed the boat past 53 mph in factory tests. Fishing-wise, the boat has 29 factoryinstalled rod holders throughout, as well as in-floor fishboxes. Its two big baitwells double as livewells — put minnows in one and the walleyes and perch you catch with them in the other.

SpecIfIcatIons

LOA: 30'6"

Beam: 9'9"

Dry Weight: 10,725 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 265 gals.

Max Power: 800 hp

YOU CAN CATCH A FISH OUT OF JUST ABOUT ANYTHING THAT FLOATS, but to catch lots of fish consistently from our Sweetwater Seas, you must refine your approach with a boat that’s designed for the task. That means a boat that can get you out to the fish with comfortable efficiency and that can handle sudden bad weather to get you back to port. You’ll need rod holders for deploying fishing lines, storage solutions for gear and accommodations to ice down your catch. You’ll also need comfortable space for the kids to roam while trolling and seating while underway.

Since many anglers want to do more than just fish, appointments for carefree cruising, boarding ladders for swimmers and raw speed for the simple thrill of a boat ride merit strong consideration.

Here are six boats built for big water that can get you to schools of perch, walleye and salmon and also provide platforms for just enjoying a day on the Great Lakes.

PursuIt S 248

Pursuit boats have a loyal following among Great Lakes fishermen due in part to the Florida company’s long association with the popular Michigan-based Tiara Yachts. Although Pursuit was bought by another corporation about five years ago, its reputation for solid outboard fishing boats stays intact.

The new S 248 is 25 feet, 6 inches long and 8 feet, 6 inches wide, which means you can trailer it without special permits. This boat caters to anglers with in-floor fishboxes, rod storage compartments and a spacious aft cockpit. Its fiberglass hardtop with a full windshield over the center console protects the pilot and crew from the elements. The folding aft seat and easy-pull slide-out for your cooler are top-notch innovations.

For family time, sun shades can be set up over the bow area and behind the T-top for relaxing at anchor. The boat has a massive swim platform for practicing cannonballs and a built-in tow pole that slides up out of the transom for pulling water toys.

SpecIfIcatIons

LOA: 25'8"

Beam: 8'6"

Dry Weight: 6,050 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 120 gals.

Max Power: 300 hp

PURSUITBOATS.COM

SpecIfIcatIons

Length: 28'1"

Beam: 9'4"

Dry Weight (w/o engine): 5,457 lbs

Fuel Capacity: 126 gals.

Max Power: 450 hp SCOUTBOATS.COM

Angler qwest

8524 Pro FamIly

FIsH rA

Scout 281 XSS

This big bay boat drafts just 14 inches, which makes it great for pulling up on the beach, yet it’s got an offshore pedigree — South Carolina-based Scout calls it an inshore/offshore crossover.

The 281 XSS has large casting fore and rear decks, dual stern bait/fishboxes, ample rod storage, and port and starboard tackle storage. Standard features throughout include transom storage boxes specifically designed to fit four fenders, dual helm seats with flip-up bolsters, fresh and raw water washdown in the leaning post with hose reels, a porta-potti, as well as a leaning post with a baitwell, Corian countertop, a cutting board, rod holders and a 65-quart YETI slide-out cooler.

Notable options on the 281 XSS include the fishbox conversion to a livewell (port and starboard boxes), a recirculating leaning post livewell, bow rod/cup holders, Minn Kota Terrova RT 112 trolling motor with iPilot, as well as multiple upgradable Garmin, stereo and outrigger options.

The pocket transom ladder and built-in synthetic decking step make it easy for swimmers to get back aboard, while the bow area has a wraparound, plush seating area for comfortable cruising or simply relaxing and entertaining.

With the Pro Family Fish RA, Michigan manufacturer Angler Qwest continues to break the image many folks have of pontoons, namely, boats for evenings of putt-putting around small inland lakes. While you can enjoy a small lake sunset in the Pro Family Fish RA, you can also bolt a 300-hp outboard on the triplepontoon edition and head out for serious adventures.

The Fish RA’s layout allows for easy trolling, casting and jigging. The back of the boat is open for setting rods and reeling in whatever you troll for. The track system on top of the binary wall is sturdy for downriggers, rod holders, a cutting board and other accessories. The binary wall includes plenty of storage for tackle, too. The stern includes a fishing station fully equipped with an 18-gallon livewell and high-pressure washdown.

The ”RA” stands for “radar arch,” which has eight rod holders and can accommodate a radar to monitor the weather and deliver an extra degree of safety if you’re ever caught in fog. At the bow, you will find two comfortable fishing seats and a spot to mount a trolling motor. Just aft of that are dual sofas where family members can sit; on sunny days, the Bimini top unfolds to provide shade. Up to 12 people can sit comfortably on the soft-touch vinyl furniture.

SpecIfIcatIons (tripLe tuBe)

Length: 24'3"

Beam: 8'6"

Dry Weight: 3,045 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 45 gals.

Max Power: 300 hp

Formula 387 CCF

Formula’s 387 Center Console Fish (CCF) is designed for the angler who doesn’t mind getting noticed. At 38 feet, 7 inches long and 12 feet wide, available power includes triple Mercury Verado 300s, triple Mercury Racing 450Rs or twin Mercury Verado 600 outboards. To help deliver a smooth ride, it features the Decatur, Indiana manufacturer’s 23-degree deadrise FAS3TECH hull.

The CCF also features triple helm seats with folding armrests, dual 40-gallon livewells aft, and port and starboard fishboxes. The leaning post has an aft-facing mezzanine bench that slides away to reveal the bait rigging station cutting board and molded sink.

The aft has a double-wide, flip-down bench seat, and both portside and transom doors facilitate swimmers. The open bow includes a dual forward-facing sun lounge with a center flip-up armrest with drink holders. The stereo with JL Audio speakers, dual USB charging ports and up to 30 rod/drink holders outfit this boat for serious family fun.

This boat even features an air-conditioned cabin with a galley and a private head compartment, making it a family cruiser with the comforts of home. Instead of packing a picnic, you can cook one up wherever you go.

SpecIfIcatIons

Length: 38'7"

Beam: 12'

Weight: 22,500 lbs

Fuel Capacity: 500 gals.

Max Power: 1,350 hp FORMULABOATS.COM

World Cat 260CC-X Center Console

World Cat catamarans have a reputation as fast, nimble boats that can handle heavy seas. The new 26-foot 260CC-X with twin 200-hp outboards (Yamaha and Merc four-strokes are available) has been clocked at 50-plus mph. This is a versatile angler, drafting just 14 inches for casting in the shallows, but is also able to troll as far offshore as you want to go.

The wraparound bow seating area features a self-storing bow filler that serves perfectly for a casting deck, and the transom has a 50-inch bench that converts into an aft casting deck. The boat has ample rod storage, too. An aerated livewell at the starboard stern is across from the port storage bin designed to carry ice or dry goods. The forward access console head is roomy for a 26-foot boat. Swimmers will also appreciate the large swim pad with its ladder and the freshwater shower wand.

SpecIfIcatIons

Length: 25'6"

Beam: 9'

Dry Weight: 6,750 lbs

Fuel Capacity: 180 gals.

Max Power: 400 hp WORLDCAT.COM

For the family to listen to their favorite music, the 260CC-X comes standard with a Fusion Apollo 670 Stereo with an impressive six JL Audio M3 speakers.

South Haven South Pier Lighthouse

Summer in South Haven

Called Ni-Ko-Nong, or the place of the beautiful sunsets by the Native Americans who originally settled here, South Haven on Michigan’s western shore is all about sandy beaches, towering dunes, wineries, historic boats, a charming downtown just steps from many of the marinas, and its well-earned title as Blueberry Capital of the World.

BY JANE AMMESON

The Black River flows through South Haven past marinas, shops, restaurants and galleries, as well as a collection of antique boats, part of the Michigan Maritime Museum fleet. People gather on both riverbanks enjoying the best of this charmingly quaint lakeside town as the river continues on, passing by the historic South Pier Lighthouse, one of only four remaining in the state and distinctive with its original catwalk connecting the tower to the shore. Once known as Ni-Ko-Nong, or the place of the beautiful sunsets, by Ottawa, Miami and Pottawattamie tribes who settled here in the 1700s, South Haven was still too wild for J.K. and Fanny Monroe when they traveled in 1833 by lumber cart to the small log cabin J.K. had built earlier for his new bride. J.K. had been awarded 65 acres through a land grant, but the region didn’t flourish the way he hoped, and the couple soon moved on to Lawrence, Michigan, about 20 miles southeast.

SOUTH HAVEN

Milwaukee Lake Michigan Michigan City LAKELANDBOATING.COM | JULY 2023 47

Grand Haven

He should have stuck around. By the 1850s, South Haven was beginning to bustle, first as a lumber town supplying Chicago with wood, and then, once the land was cleared, as farmland for growing fruits such as blueberries and peaches. Steamships took fruit west across Lake Michigan and often returned with tourists wanting to get away from the summer heat of the big city.

Destination South Haven

The resort business is said to have started when Mrs. H. M. Avery opened her home to visitors in the mid-1800s, but even before that, the Forest House, built in 1853 and now being restored, was both a hotel and a place for events and meetings. Indeed, South Haven was such a hot destination that by 1902 there were more than 200 places listed in the South Haven Resort directory where people could stay, including opulent resorts, farms, hotels and private homes.

Palatial places like Baron’s Resort advertised both hot and cold running

water, cabaret entertainment, a physical and social director, a concert orchestra, a solarium for men and women, a private beach, and, according to a postcard from the early 1900s, the finest dining room in Michigan. A plus for parents wanting a little relaxation without the stress of watching their own children, Baron’s offered a dining room for children as well as governesses to tend to them. The governess concept wasn’t unique to Baron’s; other resorts such as Samson’s also offered the option.

The Catskills of the Midwest Gentile-only restrictions were still in place in Michigan up until the 1960s. According to a report by the Anti-Defamation League of B’nai B’rith, even in 1957, 34% of Michigan hotels discriminated against Jews. To counter that, Jewish hotels opened in South Haven, and by 1920 the city had 80 Jewish resorts earning South Haven the nickname “Catskills of the Midwest.” Guests at the 80-acre Fidelman’s, considered the gold standard

of the town’s many Jewish resorts, could enjoy swimming in the large circular pool with its high dive, play tennis, golf, go for a horseback ride and sip cocktails at the Mai Kai lounge. Menus at many of the Jewish resorts featured kosher options as well as dancing in the evenings and nationally known entertainers.

Historic downtown

South Haven’s downtown, located on the southern bank of the river, is an easy walk from many of the marinas and also has tie-up options for dinghies and small boats at such riverfront restaurants as Admiral Jacks Bar & Grille, Idler Riverboat & Dockside, and Captain Lou’s.

“It’s rare to have a harbor so closely connected to the downtown,” says Griffin Graham, South Haven’s assistant city manager and harbormaster. “It makes it very convenient.”

Many of the businesses in the downtown are housed in Victorian-era commercial buildings, a picturesque blend of old and new.

LEFT PHOTO BY DYLAN NELSON; TOP PHOTO COURTESY MICHIGAN THEATER FACEBOOK; BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF CLEMENTINE’S FACEBOOK

Clementine’s

Besides blueberries, South Haven is on the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail, and the downtown features tasting rooms for such vineyards as 12 Corners Vineyard, Cogdal, Gravity and Warner. If artisan brews are more your thing, than there’s Three Blondes and a New Holland taproom, which features spirits as well. For those who want to visit the actual wineries, Trent Bulat, the digital media and guest relations manager for the South Haven/Van Buren County Convention and Visitors Bureau, suggests several of the tours available. Those include Happy Trail Wine Tours & Limon, Coastal Tours and Fruitful Vine. Moveportz Transportation Services also offers ways of getting around for those without a car.

Just east from the downtown, the 1856 home of Liberty Hyde Bailey, Jr., America’s “Father of Modern Horticulture,’’ is now a museum. While Bailey was growing up, the farmhouse sat on 80 acres with much of the land comprising extensive apple orchards. Now part of the city, there

are both perennial and annual gardens including the Martha Warner Day Lily Garden, the Heirloom Kitchen Garden, community garden plots, a nature trail, the Bailey Farm’s smokehouse, a blacksmith shop that was built in 1868 and in use to the 1960s, and a carriage barn. The farmhouse and some of the other buildings on the property are among the oldest in South Haven.

The 1896 Citizen’s Bank, a wonderful pile of red brick with a grand golden copula crown and arched windows, is now Clementine’s, a restaurant that is equally beautifully vintage inside (think tin ceilings, stained glass and glass-domed lamps).

Comfort food cooked better than Mom would have made is what the Phoenix Street Café is all about. Julia’s is a great place for coffee, pastries and just hanging out. Taste has small plates that are good to share. Sherman’s Dairy Bar has made ice cream since 1956 and shouldn’t be missed, particularly on a hot summer’s day.

Old Harbor Village and the Shoppes of

Broadway are quaint-looking trendy shops. And because this is South Haven, The Blueberry Store with its many blueberry products is a must. Don’t worry about missing it — it’s painted blue and white.

If you want to catch a show, the locally owned Michigan Theatre in downtown South Haven has been a mainstay since opening in the 1940s.

“What other movie theater is there where you can get a ticket to a first-run film, popcorn and drink for $10?” Graham says, noting that it still has its original marquee.

Sailing into history

The Michigan Maritime Museum opens the doors to South Haven’s watery past with such immersive experiences as sailing Friends Good Will, a replica of an 1810 merchant sloop that once sailed the Great Lakes. Maybe you’d rather board a 36-foot Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat built in 1941 and featured in the movie “The Finest Hour;” or Merry Time, a 1929 mahogany Chris-Craft Cadet; or

PHOTO COURTESY OF (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): IDLER FACEBOOK; SOUTHHAVEN.ORG, SOUTHHAVEN.ORG, FRUITFUL VINE FACEBOOK AND SOUTHHAVEN.ORG

Captain Lou’s

Fruitful Vine

Three Blondes Brewing

Idler Riverboat

Old Harbor Village

Calendar of Events

JULY 1 – 2: South Haven Annual Art Fair

JULY 1: The Al-Van Firecracker Furry 5K/1 Mile Race

JULY 3: Light Up The Lake Fireworks

JULY 8: South Haven Garden Club’s 25th Annual Garden Walk

JULY 15: Michigan Maritime Museum’s Annual Fish Boil Fundraiser

AUG 10 – 13: The National Blueberry Festival

AUG 12 – 13: Blueberry Fest Craft Fair

AUG 11: Rain Gutter Regatta

SEPT 2 – 3: All Crafts Fair

SEPT 7 – 11: Antique Engine & Tractor Show

SEPT 9: Black River Open Paddle

SEPT 16: Lakeshore Harvest Ride

RIVERFRONT CONCERT SERIES: Thursdays through Labor Day

SOUTH HAVEN FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays until mid-October; Wednesdays to August

the 32-foot Bernida, a Universal Rule R Class Sloop that launched in 1921; or the Lindy Lou, a replica of an electricpowered Truscott fantail river launch. If so, not to worry, the museum has you covered, says Claire Herhold, community outreach coordinator. These boat rides, hands-on exhibits, classes and events help recreate the past on the Great Lakes.

Guess that’s why they call it the blues

One of the oldest, continuously running fruit festivals in the country, this year marks the 55th anniversary of the National Blueberry Festival held the second weekend of August in South Haven, also known as the “Blueberry Capital of the World.” Michigan produces about 100 million pounds of blueberries annually, and South Haven itself is the epicenter of all things blue. The acidic soil and the microclimate created by proximity to Lake Michigan combine to create prime growing

conditions for the nearly 300 farmers who cultivate 18,500 acres of blueberries within a 50-mile radius of the city. During the season, which typically runs from July to August depending upon the weather, blueberries are available for sale or for u-pick at DeGrandchamp Farms and Bumbleberry Acres both in South Haven and at the South Haven Farmers Market on Wednesday evenings and Saturdays.

Boating and beaches

The city’s four municipal marinas — Northside, Southside, Black River Park and Maritime Docks — offer a total of 229 slips available for either seasonal or transient boaters, Graham says, noting each marina is designed for a unique experience. Slips range from 30 to 60 feet with broadside dockage. All have 30-amp electric, while some also feature 50- and 100-amp electric. The 26 slips at the Southside Municipal Marina are all transient, and the marina, which is within walking distance of downtown, has completed the process necessary to be designated a Michigan Clean Marina. The other municipal marinas are seasonal but sometimes have transient slips available. The same goes for Mitidieri Marina, with its 36 slips that can accommodate up to 40-foot boats. Amenities include

water, showers, parking and electrical services, says owner Francesco Mitidieri.

Daily and weekly transient slip rentals are available at the 110-slip Woodland Harbor Marina. Dock sizes are from 26 to 50 feet and all have twin 30- or 50-amp electrical service, cable access, wireless internet and potable water. There are also dinghy and PWC slips available as well.

If you want to launch your kayak or canoe for the day, water access is near South Marina, Black River Park and the Dykeman Bridge.

For sun lovers, grab your bathing suit and sunscreen and head to the shore. South Haven has seven beaches, with the largest and most popular being North and South Beaches, which flank either side of the river. They’re perfect for boaters, Mitidieri says, because you can anchor close to the beach and easily go ashore.

With a wide and sandy one-mile Lake Michigan beach, towering sand dune formations and camping, the 400-acre Van Buren State Park is also known for its hiking trails and day-use area that includes grills, picnic tables and modern restrooms.

Trails, trails, trails

Developed in collaboration with the Department of Natural Resources and Pure Michigan — with the criteria of

Michigan Maritime Museum

Marinas

Black River Park Marina & Boat Launch 269-637-3171

SOUTHHAVENMI.GOV

Gull Lake Marine 269-637-3655

GULLLAKEMARINESOUTHHAVEN.COM

J&B 269-637-5785

FACEBOOK.COM/MICHIGANMARINA

Maritime Docks 269-637-3171

SOUTHHAVENMI.GOV

Mitidieri Marina 317-450-8865

MITIDIERIMARINA.COM

Slip Away Cove Marina and Residences 269-214-4680

South Haven Municipal Marina North 269-637-3171

SOUTHHAVENMI.GOV

South Haven Municipal Marina South 269-637-3171

SOUTHHAVENMI.GOV

Woodland Harbor Marina 269-743-3624

WOODLANDHARBORMARINA.COM

establishing public routes that “capture the natural essences of Michigan,” are at least one mile long and are accessible to national, state or regional scenic resources — the first Trail Towns were established in 2019 and included South Haven with its 48 miles of land trails, 91 miles of water trails, 770 acres of nature preserves, as well as a several scenic drives.

The Bangor to South Haven Heritage Water Trail, one of nine designated water trails in the state, is a 21-mile canoe and kayak waterway with 15 interpretative signs. Don’t have your own canoe or kayak? South Haven has several boat rental places listed on the South Haven Visitors Bureau website.

So many on and offshore options are what make South Haven such a perfect destination for all. ★

Farmers Market

Riverfront Concert Series

National Blueberry Festival Van Buren State Park North and South Municipal Marinas

SOUTHHAVEN.ORG

ADDRESS

9284 Whispering Sands Dr. West Olive, MI 49460

SPECS

Bedrooms: 4

Baths: 3

Square Footage: 2,372

(above grade); 2,912 (total finished)

Price: $850,000

CONTACT

Andrea Crossman

Andrea Crossman

Group - Coldwell Banker

Woodland-Schmidt

616-218-0267

ANDREACROSSMAN GROUP.COM

West Olive, MI

Pure Michigan living.

Welcome to 9284 Whispering Sands Drive, a retreat designed for enjoying summers along the Pure Michigan coastline. Nestled among lakefront cottages in the peaceful Sheldon Dunes neighborhood of West Olive, this charming Michigan home sits just across the street from Lake Michigan, with views of the lake and deeded access down to the sandy beach below.

Boasting four beds and three baths, the charming home offers an airy and open interior perfect for lakeside living in all four seasons. A spacious west-facing wraparound outdoor deck offers premium views of the lake and those spectacular West Michigan sunsets. Soak up the sun, head down to the neighborhood beach, or enjoy a fireside chat on the outdoor paved patio with a built-in firepit. Wooded acreage to the rear of the home offers a private, secluded feel, with city and town amenities a short drive away.

Inside, cozy up by the fire, relax with friends and family, and enjoy clear views of the lake from the main bedroom suite. Large windows invite the outdoors in, while the open kitchen and warm cottage ambiance beckon you to stay and relax.

West Olive features plenty of outdoor activities year-round, along with miles of pristine beaches that showcase Michigan at its finest. The four-season destination exudes natural beauty with acres of woods, wetlands and miles of trails. The larger cities of Grand Rapids, Holland and Grand Haven are just a short drive in each direction, where you can find a selection of marinas, restaurants, shopping and more. Head out on a Lake Michigan adventure or simply relax waterside.

“Space for family and friends to live, play and enjoy!” says Realtor Andrea Crossman. “Don’t miss out on this special opportunity to finally have your Lake Michigan dream home!” ★

SAWMILL CREEK MARINA

609 Mariner Village

Huron, OH 44839

SAWMILLCREEKRESORT. COM/MARINA

AMENITIES

Transient slips: Y

Pump-out: Y

Gas: Y

Diesel: N

Lifts: N

Launch ramp: N

Engine repair: N

Hull repair: N

Marine store: N

Restaurant: Y

Showers: Y

Laundry Facility: N

Sawmill Creek Marina

Boat. Golf. Relax. Repeat.

If you’re heading to or from the Lake Erie islands, make a point to stop at Sawmill Creek Marina. Located in Huron, Ohio, the marina offers a host of amenities and adjoining resort offerings surrounded by 200 acres of lush woodlands with breathtaking views of the lake beyond. The marina is a great launching pad for many nearby Lake Erie boating destinations.

Purchased by Cedar Point in 2019 from the Mariner Village Condominium group, the newly renamed Sawmill Creek Marina (once known as Mariner Village Marina) offers 176 fully equipped slip rentals that accommodate up to 42-foot boats, along with a bath house, pump-out (complimentary for fueling or overnight guests), ice, gas, power and water for seasonal or transient guests.

Its location next to the Sawmill Creek Resort and 18-hole Sawmill Creek Golf Club championship golf course designed by Tom Fazio

offers extra diversions. Enjoy a day on the course, grab a bite or drink from Miller’s Table located in Sawmill Creek Resort or Mulligan’s Pub located at the golf course, or explore Lake Erie by boat.

“With direct access to Lake Erie, the Sawmill Creek Marina is a great location centrally located between Cleveland and the Lake Erie Islands and is a haven for fishermen,” explains Michael Young, Cedar Point area manager.

Downtown Sandusky and the Cedar Point amusement park, as well as Lake Erie destinations like Put-in-Bay and Marblehead Lighthouse are an easy boat ride from the dock.

“We were very excited when Cedar Fair acquired the Sawmill Creek Marina allowing us to add another Marina to the Cedar Point Resorts portfolio,” Young adds. With a full remodel in 2022, the hotel is sparkling new, and the course, amenities and service are set to impress. ★

WINTER STORAGE NEEDED! Looking for in-water winter storage for a 75' Hatteras Panacera with a 21' beam and height of 31'5". Flexible on locations close to Detroit, Michigan, but would be open to Michigan, Ohio and Canada. Call 313-363-0156. OCT23

2021 ZODIAC MEDLINE 6.8 NEO Loaded!

Second battery, box & dual charger, 6 amp, 120V inlet. Garmin 943xsv w/GT23 transducer. Rockford Fosgate stereo, 4 speakers. Custom canvas covers for helm, helm seat and aft lounge. Retractable roll bar Bimini fore and aft. Full EVA decking. Fold-up seat, ski mast. Handrail kit. Epoxy barrier coating and bottom Paint (new spring 2022). Includes 2021 Integrity Trailer. Asking $89,900. Call Bob @ 616-842-1225. RYS

2019 NORTHCOAST 235 CABIN Freshwater only. Nice navy hull with Simrad radar chartplotter VHF radio speed and depth. Includes custom Integrity aluminum tandem axel trailer. Asking $98,900. Call Chuck @ 734-497-3721. 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 $179,999. Contact PJ Tamer 424-424-9627 or

Call Steve at 810-599-5147. SEP23

2021 RANGER TUGS R-25 LUXURY EDITION

100% freshwater, one owner and only 96 hours

Yamaha F250 four stroke outboard. Midnight Blue hull, excellent condition. Luxury Edition package includes AC and many options. Additional options include a Garmin Radar and Autopilot. Includes custom 2021 Integrity welded bunk tandem axle trailer with twin 5,000 lb. axles. Asking $184,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0189. RYS

1967 CHRIS-CRAFT ROAMER 37-foot LOA, aluminum hull. 454 Crusaders repowered two years ago. Located in Cheboygan, MI. Asking $30,000. Call 810-955-4065. SEP23

2021 PURSUIT 368 S 100% freshwater, always heated indoor storage. Triple F300 Yamaha, less than 200 hours, all freshwater trolling, covers, wind/splash curtains, awning. $519,000. Complete list of options available. NO brokers. Contact pgorny001@gmail.com or 814-440-8064. JUL23

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 watersports. Full sun bed with filler cushions included. Asking $114,900. Contact PJ Tamer 424-424-9627 or pj@ centerpointesales.com. CNT

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

1993 CRUISERS 3020 ARIA Low hours, Stored inside, 2000 custom-built trailer. Camper top like new. 572 Volvo Duo Prop Outdrive. Asking $25,000. Call 309-531-2000. JUL23

2023 RIVIERA 6000 PLATINUM EDITION Gyro, Jet Tender, Starlink. Details on boattrader. com. Moving to larger vessel. Find video tour and details on YouTube: BIT.LY/GRONORIV6000. Asking $2,795,000.

She Wood II 33' Baby Gar.

She Wood II is a 33-foot Baby Gar built by Garwood in Brant Lake, New York. She is 35 years old and was built using modern construction methods, including an epoxy bottom and cold-molded planking over oak frames. She has been repowered with an 8.1-liter HO V8 engine. All boats have a sweet spot and this one’s is at 2,200 RPMs.

The original Baby Gars were built in the mid to late 1920s. They were called upswept for their raised decks. The next-generation boats built in the 1930s were called flush decks.

This is my second Baby Gar, as I let a friend talk me out of my fi rst one called Wild Honey. We found this one on Lake George, New York. She needed a complete cosmetic restoration, and this was done by Ken Biddick and Tom Orr of Charlevoix, Michigan. These 33-foot Garwood hulls are some of the best I’ve ever driven and I’ve been in more than a few. She is stored year-round in a boathouse on Round Lake in Charlevoix.

— John Winn, Charlevoix, MI