H U RO N | O N TA R I O | M I C H I G A N | E R I E | S U P E R I OR
NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2019
STINGRAY 231DC FAST, COMFORTABLE AND VERSATILE DAYBOAT. p. 28
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
NORTH CHANNEL CRUISE
Gifts for every budget. p. 22
This family transformed their new Grady-White into a “Great Lakes RV” to explore the North Channel. p. 50
SCARAB 255 OPEN ID Sporty jet-powered center console. p. 32
WORLD CAT 400DC-X Big cat with a soft rough-water ride. p. 34 DISPLAY UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2019
PORT OF CALL Ashland, WI: Lake Superior fun, no matter the season. p. 54
BUYER’S GUIDE 2020 p. 37
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Features
ON THE COVER
Stingray 231DC Built to inspire. by Craig Ritchie ............................................................
Scarab 255 Open ID The family man’s center console. by Alan Wendt ................................
World Cat 400DC-X Let the big cat out of the bag. by Alan Wendt.........................................
Buyer’s Guide Find your next dream boat. ......................................................................
28 32 34 37
Cruising in a Great Lakes RV The Otterbine family modified their newest center console and the only Grady-White Canyon 456 currently on the Great Lakes into their very own “Great Lakes RV.” Instead of cruising America’s roadways, however, the family plies the Great Lakes to top destinations, including the North Channel. Story and photos by Chris Otterbine..............................
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Port of Call: Ashland, WI Ashland Adventure: Small town charm, big time fun. by Felicia Schneiderhan .............................................................................
@ lakelandboating.com ★ Shop boats for sale by owner ★ Place a classified ad to sell your boat ★ Peruse dozens of exciting destination stories ★ Check out our most recent Boat Tests & Spotlights ★ Purchase our Great Lakes Cruising Guides ★ Access past issues with our online magazine ★ Stay current on all the latest Great Lakes news ★ And much more!
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A cherry red hull and sporty lines grab your attention, but what will really impress you is the Stingray 231DC’s performance, rocketing riders up to 50 mph with ease. Add in the deep swim platform, big Mercury 250 and seating for all your friends and family, and you have yourself the perfect family dayboat.
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Departments
4 Dock Box ............................................................................................. 6 Calendar .............................................................................................. 8 Scuttle......................................................................................................... 12 Holiday Gift Guide ........................................................................ 22 Beneath the Surface ....................................................................24 Electronics .......................................................................................26 Safety First ...................................................................................... 27 Lakeshore Life: Cedarville, MI ...................................................62 Boat Biz: Colony Marine ............................................................ 64 Marine Marketplace ......................................................................65 Classifieds ........................................................................................79 Classic Craft ................................................................................... 80 From the Helm ..................................................................................
PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTHERN GREAT LAKES VISITOR CENTER
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Fish & Cruise While the 236CC was designed for use as a coastal fishing boat, it's really a multi-purpose boat that can be used for lots of activities — pulling kids on a tube, cruising to dinner, or just a leisurely ride along the waterways.
With seating for up to twelve passengers, rod holders and storage throughout, and a changing compartment that can be upgraded with an optional porta potti, the 236CC is ready for a full day of fun on the water with family and friends! 236CC Deck Boat 23’ 8” | 101” beam | 3648 lbs (w/ popular engine) | 68 gal fuel capacity | 12 ppl, 3250 lbs VISIT STINGRAYBOATS.COM /236CC FOR MORE INFORMATION
FROM THE HELM
CONTRIBUTORS
What’s your favorite holiday tradition?
Greetings from Publisher Bing O’Meara!
D
Chris Otterbine
PHOTO BY CARA DROST
ear readers, You may be aware that I have not been writing the “From the Helm” column for some time now. Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. I am strong and feeling well, so am counting my blessings every day. The crew at Lakeland Boating keeps working hard to bring you a great magazine each month, while I am away from the helm. I am proud and thankful to all of them for keeping us on course. I also want to personally thank each of you for subscribing. My advice to all of you would be to not put off anything you really want to do in life. Work at sneaking in some things on your bucket list before you retire. None of us can foresee the future. I treasure all the memories Linda and I have of cruising and the wonderful people we met along the way. I hope to be back on the water again soon! Happy Holidays and best wishes for a healthy and fantastic 2020. Get out there and enjoy some adventures!
There’s no better way to spend a weekend than making Christmas cookies with my grandchildren. Cookies together has been our tradition since my now college girls were old enough to crack an egg. HHH
Cheers! Alan Wendt
Do you have a story idea you’d like to suggest? Email kbush@lakelandboating.com to share your ideas.
Stored on our lakefront home are three pontoon boats we use to launch fireworks on July 4. In December, we decorate them with controllable LED lights and synchronize them to favorite holiday tunes. HHH
AREAS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE North Channel p. 50 Ashland, WI p. 54
Cedarville, MI p. 62
Felicia Schneiderhan Colony Marine p. 64
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I love our outdoor holiday traditions with our three kids: Finding a tree, touring a light show along the beach of Lake Superior, hiking in the woods and cross-country skiing (if we’re lucky and have snow!).
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as one of the world’s greatest motor yachts. Is it the devotion to quality, standard of materials used, the ocean tested structural strength, unsurpassed ease of operation, worldleading technology, or the unique, handcrafted luxury finish? Or perhaps it’s the famous culture of care that transforms owners into the ‘Riviera family’. The answer is all of the above, and more. Much, much more. Over 39 years and the building of over 5,500 luxury motor yachts, the 600-strong Riviera team have been on a continuous quest of evolution and refinement. Step aboard at the 2019 Fort Lauderdale and 2020 Miami Boat Shows or discover more now at RivieraAustralia.com
190210
Lake Michigan Yacht Sales Bay Harbor, Michigan USA p: 231 439 2675 mattm@lakemichiganyachtsales.com Lakemichiganyachtsales.com FLYBRIDGE 39 43 45 54 57
SUV 395 445 505 545 575
SPORT YACHT 4800 5400 6000
Onekama Marine Inc. Onekama, Michigan USA p: 231 889 5000 steveb@onekamamarine.com Onekamamarine.com SPORTS MOTOR YACHT 64 68 72
BELIZE 54 66 SEDAN and DAYBRIDGE
DOCK BOX
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 | VOLUME LXXIII, NO. 11
PUBLISHER Walter “Bing” O’Meara
HOLIDAY GIFT IDEA!
EDITORIAL STAFF Editorial Director: Kate Bush Assistant Editor: Amanda McDonald CREATIVE STAFF Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs CONTRIBUTORS Helen Aitken, Glenn Hayes, Capt. Frank Lanier, Chris Otterbine, Jim Ramsey, Craig Ritchie, Felicia Schneiderhan, Heather Steinberger, Alan Wendt
Need a holiday gift for your favorite boater (or yourself)? Our Lakeland Boating hat is constructed from soft cotton twill for a great fit. Leather band adjustment in back with antiqued brass closure. Available in weathered navy, Nantucket red and khaki. One size. $24.95 + S&H. To order, visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/ STORE .
Favorite Little First Mate Here’s a picture of my 6-month-old grandson, Jack (and my favorite little First Mate), enjoying the latest edition of Lakeland Boating! —Mike Arlt Corrections In the October issue’s Boat Test on the Sea Ray 350 SLX (p. 40), we failed to mention a Sea Ray dealer, Colony Marine, which has locations in St. Clair Shores, Algonac and Oakland County, Michigan. Visit COLONYMARINE.COM for more information. Also, in our October “Great Gear” department (p. 22), we incorrectly published the price of the Ironwood Pacific DeckMate 6-in-1 Boating Tool. The correct price is $19.95, which you can purchase at IRONWOODPACIFIC.COM.
CANINE CREW Teddy At only 8 months old, our doodle, Teddy, has taken to boating in a serious way. We believe she wants to work on her captain’s license next. —Rick Hebert (aboard Ricochet), Charlevoix, MI
Miracle Our cat’s name is Miracle. This was her first year being on the boat all summer in Door County! She was a great boat cat. —Linda Wilson, Milton, WI
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!
BUSINESS STAFF National Sales: Mark Conway Regional Sales: Patti McCleery Marketing Director: Linda O’Meara Accounting: Marguerite Wristen EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 / Fax: 312-276-0619 STAFF@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 P.O. Box 15396 North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396 800-827-0289 O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC. President: Walter B. O’Meara Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2019, by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. • Business/Accounting and Editorial Offices: 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201, 312-276-0610. • Call 800-827-0289 to subscribe. Subscription correspondence should be addressed to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615 (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 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396. • 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 STAFF@LAKELANDBOATING.COM or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201. Opinions expressed in “Dock Box” are not necessarily those of Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
PRINTED IN THE U.S.A
Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Annual premium for a basic liability policy not available all states. Prices vary based on how you buy.
1.800.PROGRESSIVE | PROGRESSIVE.COM
CALENDAR OF EVENTS BY KAT E B U S H
NOV 1 – 3
Kelleys Island Owl Festival Kelleys Island, OH
KELLEYSISLANDNATURE.COM
NOV 2
Girl Scout Brownies Love Water Day Manitowoc, WI WISCONSINMARITIME.ORG
NOV 2 – 3
1
ALGOMACOUNTRY.COM
NOV 14 – 17
Festival of Trees Sault Ste. Marie, ON
NOV 2 – 3 & 9 – 10 Toast the Season Traverse City, MI
ALGOMACOUNTRY.COM
LPWINES.COM/TOAST
NOV 15 – DEC 24
Christkindlmarket Chicago 1 Chicago, IL
NOV 3 – 9
Charlevoix Restaurant Week Charlevoix, MI
CHRISTKINDLMARKET.COM
CHARLEVOIXRESTAURANTWEEK.COM
Winter Festival of Lights 2 Niagara Falls, ON
NOV 6 – 9
Big Water Film Festival Ashland, WI
WFOL.COM
BIGWATERFILMFESTIVAL.ORG
NOV 19 – DEC 20 Festival of Trees Clayton, NY
NOV 7
Ashwabay Ski & Snowboard Swap Bayfield, WI
TIMUSEUM.ORG/EVENTS
MTASHWABAY.ORG
NOV 20 – DEC 1 Festival of Trees Muskegon, MI
NOV 8 – 15
2
NOV 16 – JAN 12
Traverse City Beer Week Traverse City, MI
MUSKEGONARTMUSEUM.ORG
TRAVERSECITY.COM/TCBW
NOV 22
Luminary Festival St. Joseph, MI
NOV 8 – DEC 10
Merry-Time Festival of Trees Door County, WI
STJOETODAY.COM
DCMM.ORG
NOV 22 – 24
Christmas by the Bay Sturgeon Bay, WI
NOV 10
Annual Edmund Fitzgerald Memorial Ceremony Paradise, MI
STURGEONBAY.NET
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Shipwrecks & Scuba Sandusky, OH
SHIPWRECKSANDSCUBA.COM
NOV 23 – DEC 14
FRANKFORT-ELBERTA.COM
Stafford’s Downtown Petoskey Holiday Parade 3 Petoskey, MI PETOSKEYDOWNTOWN.COM
DEC 6
Festival of Lights Penetanguishene, ON
PENETANGUISHENE.CA
Holiday Open House Petoskey, MI
PETOSKEYDOWNTOWN.COM
Mackinac Island Christmas Tree Lighting Mackinac Island, MI MACKINACISLAND.ORG
Sinterklaas Eve Holland, MI
HOLLANDMUSEUM.ORG
Whitby’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Whitby, ON
DEC 6 – 7
Christmas in the Village Escanaba, MI
DEC 6 – 15
NOV 29
DEC 7
CHRISTMASMARKETATOSTHOFF.COM
Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Charlevoix, MI
Christmas in the Village Ephraim, WI
NOV 29 – 30
Christmas Tree Ship Vermilion, OH
Capture the Spirit Sister Bay, WI
COMETOSISTERBAY.COM
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Holly Berry Arts & Craft Fair Frankfort, MI
Old World Christmas Market Sheboygan, WI
VISITCHARLEVOIX.COM
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NOV 30
Dutch Winterfest Kerstmarkt Holland, MI HOLLAND.ORG
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
EGGHARBORDOORCOUNTY.ORG
WHITBY.CA
NOV 23
SHIPWRECKMUSEUM.COM
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Holly Days Egg Harbor, WI
EPHRAIM-DOORCOUNTY.COM
MAINSTREETVERMILION.ORG
PHOTOS: 1. CH RISTKIND LMARKET; 2. WFOL; 3. DOW NTOWN PETOSKE Y FACEBOOK
Holiday Gift and Craft Show Sault Ste. Marie, ON
A BOAT THAT’S BUILT BETTER,
LIVES BETTER.
Plumb bow and raised sheer line. It’s how Carver Yachts builds a boat that lives larger with more headroom and elbow room on every deck level. No wonder Carver Yachts is taking the marine industry by storm. And Carver offers seven, Coupe and Command Bridge models from 34 to 52 feet to choose from.
See The Difference.
WWW.CARVERYACHTS.COM
See your dealer for a sea trial today.
CenterPointe Yacht Services Milwaukee, Kenosha & Sturgeon Bay, WI www.centerpointeservice.com
C52 C43 C40 C37 C36 C34
Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales St. Clair Shores, Holland & Charlevoix, MI & Port Clinton, OH www.jybs.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS BY K ATE B USH
4 Christmas Tree Ship Chicago, IL
CHRISTMASSHIP.ORG
5
Christmas Tree Ship Celebration Manitowoc, WI
WISCONSINMARITIME.ORG
Huron Winterfest With Santa Huron, OH CITYOFHURON.ORG
Light up the Night & Soup Cook Off Bellaire, MI BELLAIRECHAMBER.ORG
Olde’ Fashioned Christmas Oak Harbor, OH Santa Hustle 5k Chicago, IL
SANTAHUSTLE.COM/CHICAGO
DEC 7 – 8
Ignite the Fort Thunder Bay, ON FWHP.CA
DEC 14 – 15
Holiday Stop & Shop Port Clinton, OH
LIBERTYAVIATIONMUSEUM.ORG
DEC 31
DEC 14
Santa Arrives on the Ferry 4 Bayfield, WI
Charlevoix Bridge Drop Charlevoix, MI BRIDGEDROP.COM
BAYFIELD.ORG
ADD YOUR EVENT
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Visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/GREAT-LAKES-EVENTS to add your event to our Calendar of Events page!
New Year’s Eve Walleye Drop Port Clinton, OH WYLIEWALLEYE FOUNDATION.COM
New Year’s Eve Fireworks and Cherry Drop Sister Bay, WI COMETOSISTERBAY.COM
Traverse City New Year’s Eve CherryT Ball Drop 5 Traverse City, MI CHERRYTBALLDROP.ORG
PH OTOS: 4. BAYF IELD, WI FACEBOOK; 5. CH ERRYT BALL DROP FACEBOOK
OAKHARBOROHIO.NET
BUSINESS
SkipperBud’s Acquires MasterCraft Boats of Chicago
Illinois-based SkipperBud’s has acquired the assets and inventory of the MasterCraft Boats of Chicago dealership. The operations will be split between two Illinois locations, Volo and Antioch, and the primary showroom will be at SkipperBud’s Sequoit Harbor location. “We are very excited to grow our great partnership with MasterCraft, and to provide on-water access to the MasterCraft owners,” says Todd Riepe, SkipperBud’s regional VP. “MasterCraft has a great following in Illinois, and our key locations should allow them even more access to support.” To learn more about the acquisition, visit SKIPPERBUDS.COM.
SCUTTLE GREAT LAKES NEWS
Freedom Boat Club has announced its 200th franchise location, which is the Madeira Beach location for the Tampa, Florida franchise. The company went from 100 locations to 200 in just over three years. FREEDOMBOATCLUB.COM.
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BUZZ
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EVENTS
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BUSINESS
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PEOPLE & PLACES
BUZZ
Charlevoix Yacht Club Breaks Ground on New Property In September, construction of Charlevoix Yacht Club’s new two-story, 10,000-square-foot facility designed by Andre M. Poineau officially began. The building on Lake Charlevoix has been a vision for 30 years and will include an events center, marina facilities, bathhouse, clubhouse and storage. It is expected to be completed in early 2021. “Charlevoix has a long history of yachting and boating,” says Bob Grove, Charleviox Yacht Club commodore. “This cements the future of the yacht club and provides a significant place where boaters can meet.” The existing boathouse will be demolished, while
the current yacht club building, located across the street at 209 Ferry Avenue, will remain for now. The new building will be co-owned by Irish Boat Shop and CYC Partners LLC. “The landscaping and building itself really did a good job of keeping views open for neighboring properties,” Charlevoix Zoning Administrator Jonathan Scheel said when the zoning was approved earlier this year. “They will be good neighbors, a good value for the citizens of the city with another place on the water for the events, better facilities for our boaters.” To learn more, visit CHARLEVOIXYACHTCLUB.ORG.
BOATS
Marlow Debuts New Voyager 100 Model in Fort Lauderdale
ADD YOUR NEWS
12
ICE, the first of the Marlow Voyager 100 models, made a grand entrance at the 2019 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The model features 100% in-house designs, a beam of 22+ feet, 1,600-hp Baudouin premium hand-built continuous duty engines, speeds of 20+ knots and a stylish finish. The yacht’s structure is made of Dupont kevlar and carbon, similar to the most advanced military aircraft. ICE is the largest yacht to emerge from Marlow’s shipyards and is the second Email kbush@lakelandboating.com to add your company’s Voyager Class yacht, following the VAGABUNDO at 76 feet. Great Lakes news to Scuttle! To learn more about the model, visit MARLOWYACHTS.COM. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
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SCUTTLE
MUST-HAVE
Garmin Introduces Panoptix LiveScope Ice Fishing Bundle Ice fishermen, rejoice! Garmin has announced its first chartplotter and transducer bundle with Panoptix LiveScope sonar designed specifically for ice fishing. Panoptix LiveScope is the first and only live-scanning sonar for recreational fishing, and anglers can now benefit from seeing fish and structure in real-time up to 200 feet in any direction below the ice. The bundle includes a large ECHOMAP Plus 93sv keyed-assist chartplotter, the Panoptix LiveScope System with forward- and down-scanning modes, a swivel pole mount and more — all in a portable carrying case. “LiveScope will transform the way anglers fish on the ice, allowing them to pinpoint and follow schools of fish faster, drill fewer holes and spend more time on what’s important — catching fish,” says Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “We know that fishing doesn’t stop when the ice thaws — our versatile ice bundle can be easily transitioned to the boat in the warmer months, so you can keep fishing with LiveScope all year long.” The new Panoptix LiveScope Ice Bundle will retail for $2,799.99. For more information, visit GARMIN. COM/PANOPTIX.
MUST-HAVE
WideWakes Announces WideWakes for Boaters
The developers of WideWakes for Boaters claim their new online product is the “greatest innovation for recreational boaters since GPS.” This web-based marine fuel price service allows subscribing boaters to easily create and maintain their own list of favorite marinas with current fuel prices. This list is accessible with a single touch or click on mobile devices, tablets or computers. This means that boaters can easily see the marinas they want with current fuel prices all on a single screen. They can also access detailed marina information, like location, phone number and website, specific fuel data, such as octane/ethanol content and additives (or whether fuel is available), amenities and docking facilities, local marina weather and hours of operation. “It easily pays for itself in a single fill up,” says B&E Marine Owner Rod Benz. An annual subscription to WideWakes for Boaters is $35.88 and is free to try for 14 days. To learn more, visit WIDEWAKES.COM.
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BOATS
Palm Beach 70 Debuted at FLIBS
Palm Beach Motor Yachts’ newest model, the Palm Beach 70, builds upon its predecessor, the Palm Beach 65, and features a semi-displacement warped-hull that creates a smooth ride, a 38-knot top speed, three staterooms, a foredeck cockpit, a golden teak interior finish and much more. “The Palm Beach 70 was born from customer demand — they wanted a larger Palm Beach Motor Yacht,” says Mark Richards, CEO and founder. “We had to build the yacht that we ourselves wanted too, which can stand on her own to meet our high standards of performance, hull efficiency and aesthetics.” The flybridge motoryacht made her debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October. To learn more about the new model, visit PALMBEACHMOTORYACHTS.COM.
BUZZ
IBEX Award Winners Announced With a record amount of entries (more than 100) submitted to this year’s IBEX Innovation Awards, NMMA and BWI judges chose just 16 winners and one honorable mention. Those include: • Boat Care and Maintenance: AWLGRIP North America, HDT • Boatbuilding Methods & Materials: Teakdecking Systems, LIGNIA Yacht Teak Alternative • Boatyard and Marina Hardware and Software: Cojali USA Inc, Jaltest Marine • Covering: STREX Fasteners LLC, STREX Fasteners • Deck Equipment and Hardware: LilliPad Marine, Revo Boarding Ladder • Electrical Systems: Triskel Marine Ltd, Integrel Advanced Generator Replacement Technology • Entertainment: Roswell Marine, R1 Pro Tower Speakers • Furnishings and Interior Parts: Teak Isle Mfg., Pontoon Folding Table with Tray • Inboard Engines: Volvo Penta, Next-Generation D4/ D6 Marine Propulsion Systems • Lighting: Quality Mark Inc., H2O Light Saver • Mechanical Systems (Dual Winners): Dometic Corporation, Turbo Global Air-Conditioning Unit; and Mate USA, UP8-RE Reversible Electronic Pump • OEM Electronics: Dometic Corporation, E-Actuator • Outboard Engines: Evinrude, E-TEC • Propulsion Parts, Propellers: Propellers, PowerTech! Propellers, Propeller Scanalyzer • Safety Equipment: Vesper Marine, Cortex. Honorable Mention: Telesafe LLC, Engine Inhibitor Unit The IBEX Innovation Awards started in 2003 and honors innovation in the marine industry. To learn more, visit IBEXSHOW.COM.
SCUTTLE
BOATS
Lexus Launches LY 650, in Collaboration with Marquis Yachts
Lexus has shifted from building automobiles to building yachts! Its brandnew LY 650, which is crafted at Marquis Yachts factory in Pulaski, Wisconsin, is a luxury flybridge cruiser that is both elegant and sporty. Features include three berths with 6 feet, 6 inches of headroom, each with a private head and shower, as well as a crisp, white interior, curved lines and creative lighting. “The LY 650 symbolizes the challenge taken by Lexus, which aspires to be a true luxury lifestyle brand, to venture beyond the automobile,” says Lexus President Akio Toyoda. “As a mobility company, we are pursuing new possibilities for mobility even on the sea.” For more information, visit LEXUS.COM.
BUZZ
Sea Tow Foundation Launches National Boating Industry Safety Awards Sirius Signal has announced its next generation of SOS Distress Lights: The dual-color eVDSD model C-1002 device and the updated C-1003 model. As part of this rollout, Sirius Signal will no longer license its technology to Weems & Plath, and will be the sole manager of all distribution and retailer partnerships. SIRIUSSIGNAL .COM.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
BOATS
Smoker Craft Announces New 2020 Models Indiana-based Smoker Craft, Inc. — a boat manufacturer whose brands include Smoker Craft, Starcraft, Starweld, Sylvan and SunChaser — announced new projects during its 2020 Dealer Meeting. “Our focus for 2020 is affordable boating. We want to get more people out on the water by keeping boating accessible to everyone,” says Smoker Craft Inc. Senior Vice President, Marketing and Corporate Development Peter Barrett. “As the marketplace focuses increasingly on that higher-end consumer, our concern is that the entry-level buyer has been completely left out, and we want to bring them back into the picture. We want a millennial to be able to buy one of our boats and become a customer for life.” Among the new products announced was the all-new SVX fiberglass deckboat line; a new line of entry-level pontoon boats, ranging from 16 to 22 feet in length, sold under the SunChaser Vista and Starcraft LX branding; as well as new aluminum fishing boats in Starcraft and Smoker Craft lineups riding on the all-new Vertex Performance Strake (VPS) hull design. For more information, visit SMOKERCRAFT.COM.
Sea Tow Foundation’s North American Sober Skipper advisory council has created a new awards program to recognize top safety promoters exclusively in the for-profit recreational marine segment. The inaugural National Boating Industry Safety Awards ceremony will be held the opening night of the new Elevate Summit on November 22 in Orlando, Florida. The awards will honor top boating safety programs and promotions in four separate categories: The best in class work of marine retailers, marine manufacturers, marine media and best overall marine marketing outreach program promoting boating safety. View more info at SOBERSKIPPER.COM/AWARDS. BUSINESS
Snag-a-Slip Acquires Slipsure
Snag-A-Slip, the online boat slip reservation service, has acquired SlipSure, an app for instant and same-day boater bookings. “Snag-A-Slip’s mission is to make booking slips seamless and as easy as possible for both boaters and marinas. The acquisition of SlipSure accelerates our mission by increasing the number of partner marinas that let boaters instantly book,” says Dan Cowens, founder and CEO of Snag-A-Slip. “This means our boaters have the peace of mind that their slip is reserved and waiting for them, even if they book minutes before arriving.” Since launching in 2015, Snag-A-Slip has expanded its network to more than 700 partner marinas, spanning from Canada to the Caribbean. In 2019, Snag-A-Slip opened its platform to private docks. “We all know why we like Hotel Tonight, Airbnb, Uber and other apps. They have a way of giving us more choices, while simplifying those choices,” says Sherrie Norton, co-founder of SlipSure. “This is exactly what we set out to do when we created SlipSure. We are delighted to take this vision to new heights with Snag-A-Slip.” For more information, visit SNAGASLIP.COM.
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LAKELANDBOATING.COM
SCUTTLE
BOATS
New Fairline Model Coming in 2020 Fairline Yachts has announced plans to launch a new Targa 45 GT model, the fourth in the current Targa GT lineup, next year at Boot Düsseldorf 2020. Features of the 45-foot yacht include a large main deck salon, a powered hardtop roof and patio doors, a choice of two or three cabins, two heads, standard twin Volvo IPS600 D6-440 engines and more. “We are pleased to announce the upcoming addition of the Targa 45 GT to our product range,” says Wayne Huntley, head of design and engineering. “We are confident that the accessible size, stunning interior and exterior design, and highly adaptable layout will appeal in every global yachting territory.” To learn more about the model, visit FAIRLINE .COM.
GREAT LAKES NEWS
NOAA Awards $10.2M for HAB Research NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) is giving $10.2 million to 12 different research projects looking for ways to improve and predict harmful algal blooms (HABs), including in the Great Lakes. About $8.4 million of that will cover the first year of new 3- to 5-year projects, and $1.78 million will go to 3-year projects already in progress. “Through NCCOS, NOAA is funding the latest scientific research to support environmental managers trying to cope with increasing and recurring toxic algae that continue to affect environmental and human health and coastal economies,” says NCCOS Director Steven Thur, PhD. “Improved understanding of these coastal HAB threats will lead to better bloom observation and prediction, and help to mitigate effects along the U.S. coast.” To learn more about the projects receiving funding, visit NOAA .COM.
“When you spend 30 years perfecting the industry’s leading Marine Gasoline and Diesel fuels, you want to make sure that exceptional quality is maintained right up until the point they are put into use. That’s why we choose only the best marinas and fuel docks to carry ValvTect7 product, and inspect and certify their fuel tanks and pumps each year to assure they meet our strict quality standards.”
Marine Formulated, Quality Inspected & Fuel Dock Certified.
MARINE FUEL
Learn more at: ValvTect.com/vmfdockcert.pdf © 2019 ValvTect Petroleum Products, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089.
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Chaparral and Robalo Introduce 2020 Models
BUZZ
Meet Chaparral and Robalo’s newest additions to their 2020 model line. According to Boating Industry, Chaparral has introduced five new models: 280 OSX, 25 Surf, 257 SSX Outboard, 19 SSi Outboard and 19 SSi Outboard Ski & Fish. The boatbuilder also announced its reinvigorated SSi line, which will include 11 models from 19 to 24 feet. Robalo unveiled its new 206 Cayman, 226 Cayman and updated R230, which includes a new sheerline, transom design and standard seating options. For more information, visit CHAPARRALBOATS.COM and ROBALO.COM.
FLIR Introduces Raymarine DockSense Alert Known as “The World’s Sixth Sense,” FLIR’s newly introduced Raymarine DockSense Alert is the latest addition to Raymarine’s intelligent docking technology line, which can be installed on any boat to help captains safely monitor their surroundings and dock their boats with confidence. DockSense Alert detects, displays and alerts the captain to obstacles around the boat using FLIR machine vision camera technology and video analytics. Live video feeds from each DockSense camera make it simple to see blind spots using a Raymarine Axiom display. The system also provides audible and visual alarms to alert the captain in real-time to the effects of wind, current, and propeller thrust. For more information, visit RAYMARINE.COM/DOCKSENSE.
Customize your experience Envisioning a new way of boating, Volvo Penta provides one fully integrated system to give you complete control of your yacht like never before. Thanks to features like Autopilot, Joystick maneuvering, Dynamic Positioning System, Glass Cockpit and more, boating has never been easier. Learn more at: www.volvopenta.us/easyboating
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Shepler’s Ferry Names Newest Vessel
BUSINESS
Blue Water Marine Paints Now Under Sea Hawk Brand
New Nautical Coatings, Inc. — parent company of Sea Hawk Paints — is now the owner of Blue Water Marine Paints, whose product line includes antifoulings, topside finishes, epoxy primers and marine urethanes. “We believe this transaction will provide truly unique opportunities that create value for the customers of both brands,” says Erik Norrie, New Nautical Coatings’ CEO. New Nautical Coatings is family owned and operated, and offers a wide array of marine coating products globally, including antifouling systems, primers, solvents and resins. To learn more, visit SEAHAWKPAINTS.COM
Mackinac Island ferry operator Shepler’s Ferry has announced the name of its newest vessel, which will launch in spring of 2020. The latest fleet addition will be named the William Richard, in honor William (Bill) Richard Shepler, son of Shepler’s Ferry founder Captain William Henry Shepler. Bill was with the company back in 1945, when Bill’s dad, Captain William H. Shepler, first began piloting visitors to Mackinac Island via unscheduled speed boat charters. He is still a part of the daily operation and can often be seen greeting guests or tagging vehicles and luggage at the Mackinaw City dock. The William Richard is a $4 million, jet-powered motor vessel currently under construction at Moran Iron Works. For more information, visit SHEPLERSFERRY.COM.
BUZZ
TowBoatUS New York Adds Multiple Locations New York boaters now have more TowBoatUS locations to call on in a pinch. TowBoatUS Rochester, TowBoatUS Oneida Lake and TowBoatUS Clayton are all now part of the 24/7 network and can deliver fuel, jump a battery, tow to a launch ramp and more. “We are looking forward to growing our company’s footprint and helping boaters with professional on-water assistance in the Thousand Islands region,” says Capt. Grant Langheinrich, owner of the Rochester and Oneida Lake branches, along with his wife, Karla. “With TowBoatUS, having engine troubles or running aground isn’t going to leave you wondering how you will safely get back to the launch ramp or dock. We are there for you 24/7.” BoatUS offers boaters on-water Unlimited Towing Memberships for $85 per year. To learn more, visit BOATUS.COM.
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gadgets, gifts and gear at every price point for your favorite boater!
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Mystic Knotwork Monkey Fist Bottle Stopper When you’ve finished pouring wine, cork it with the nautical Monkey Fist Bottle Stopper by Mystic Knotwork. This cotton stopper comes in 12 color choices, including navy, red and gray, and measures 3.75 inches long. All Mystic Knotwork products are handmade in the U.S. by the Beaudoin family. $16 AT MYSTICKNOTWORK.COM
Great Lakes Necklace
AT ETSY.COM/SHOP/JUSHSHOP
“Good Night Great Lakes” If you grew up reading “Good Night Moon,” then you’ll love to read “Good Night Great Lakes” to your little one, highlighting all the Great Lakes offer. The board book features images of wildlife, sailing, kayaking, swimming, beaches, dunes, lighthouses, hiking, fishing, camping, museums, winter activities and more. PREORDER FOR $9.95 AT PENGUINRANDOMHOUSE .COM
Lake Effect Copper Dog Bowl
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Handmade in Chicago, Illinois, these dainty Great Lakes-shaped necklaces are the perfect gift for the special lady in your life. Available in silver, gold and rose gold, the necklace pendant measures 3/4 x 1/2 inches, while the chain measures 16 inches. Metal is matte-plated finish. Two-inch extensions are available for $2. $15.95
Stainless Steel Tumbler
Don’t forget about Fiddo on your shopping list! Upgrade your lake dog’s food or water bowls with a classy copper dog bowl with vinyl lettering and rubber stopper material on the bottom to prevent slipping/sliding while your pup eats. Hand-wash only. Five percent of all sales from Lake Effect go to FLOW | For Love of Water, which works to empower communities and leaders to protect the Great Lakes.
If you’re in a “Great Lakes State of Mind,” drink your beverages out of this 20-ounce, teal stainless steel tumbler! Your drinks will remain hot or cold for hours, thanks to the double wall, foodgrade 18/8 stainless steel that’s vacuum insulated. The sweat-proof powder coating exterior will make sure your hands stay dry. $24.99 AT
$32 AT LAKEEFFECTCO.COM
RALLEYHOUSE .COM
Men’s Sperry Cup Boat Shoe Sperry has put a spin on the classic boat shoe design with a touch of sneaker styling. The super comfortable Ortholite insoles combine with the fullgrain, unlined leather uppers to provide the perfect balance of comfort and style. Razor-cut Wave-Siping for ultimate wet/dry traction provides sure footing from the boat deck to the dock. $79.95 AT SPERRY.COM
Weathered Crew Sweatshirt Bundle up on a chilly night with this comfy Weathered Crew from Great Lakes Collection. It’s garment dyed and made of 80% cotton and 20% polyester, which makes it extra soft. The unisex sweater is available in lake blue or evergreen and in sizes S-XXL. Note: The style runs large, so size down. $60 AT GREATLAKESCOLLECTION.COM
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Gift Guide Under
BLACKTIP Angler Fishing Kit
$500
Any angler on your list will love this sevenpiece angler fishing kit, featuring all of the fishing tools needed in one convenient, zippered storage/carry case. The kit includes a case with handles, bait knife, fillet knife, marine shear, dehooker, pliers and a tape measure. The knives are made of 420J2 Japanese steel and non-stick blades. $109 AT WESTMARINE .COM
Boatgirl Weekender Tote Bag
ORBI Marine Recording Eyewear We’re officially living in the future! With ORBI Marine, 360-degree, waterproof recording eyewear, you can protect your eyes from the sun while capturing videos. The glasses have a built-in camera that records pristine 4K video, and built-in Wi-Fi allows for instant sharing of videos. Best of all, you can record videos hands-free. STARTING AT $274 (EARLY-BIRD PRICING) AT KICKSTARTER.COM.
Pack your bag for a day on the water with this sturdy tote that will stay upright. The Boatgirl Weekender has a Vislon Zipper top that keeps all your stuff dry in wet and windy conditions. The Sunbrella body makes the bag exceptionally water resistant. The interior has one large zipper pocket, a smaller zipper pocket and two open-top pockets. $289 AT GOBOATGIRL .COM
Aqua Marina Island Inflatable Air Platform Extend your swim platform or create an extra space for soaking up the sun with this 8- by 5-foot inflatable air platform! Six handholds make lifting and moving the platform a simple task. Users can join two or more platforms together using the interlock system. Platform is treated with a UV block for high resistance to the sun’s damaging rays. $379.99 AT DEFENDER.COM
LightSUP Stand-Up Paddleboard Unlike any SUP you’ve seen before, this board features an expansive dual pane viewing window that offers a glimpse into the water below. Three internal light ports powered by Lume Cube casts up to 4500 lumens, so you can paddle even at night. The durable board is made using Thermal Composite Technology, and a retractable handle and removable fins make the board easily portable. $2,000-2,500 AT
splurge!
LIGHTSUPBOARDS.COM
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BENEATH THE SURFACE BY HE AT H E R ST E IN B E R GER
#BahamasStrong After Hurricane Dorian, life in Grand Bahama and the Abacos won’t be the same — but it will go on. ourteen years ago, my family and I were chased out of the northern Bahamas by a hurricane named Wilma. As we bounced through the outer rain bands on a puddle jumper to Fort Lauderdale, I swore I would return to the Abacos one day. Last year, I had that opportunity. My husband, daughter and I joined a flotilla from Stuart, Florida, to Grand Bahama’s West End and then Great Abaco, and I detailed the islands’ delights in an offseason destination story titled “Abaconian Treasures” in Lakeland Boating’s November/ December 2018 issue. We couldn’t have imagined that, just a year later, those treasures would be scattered or destroyed by another hurricane. Dorian was the most intense hurricane ever to strike the Bahamas and the worst natural disaster in the country’s history. The storm made landfall at Elbow Cay on September 1, 2019 as a Category 5 hurricane, reaching peak intensity with sustained winds of 185 mph, gusts of 220 mph and a storm surge of 23 feet. Dorian was a monster. And then it got worse. The hurricane stalled, its forward motion dropping to 5 mph over Marsh Harbour, Great Abaco, and just 1.2 mph over Grand Bahama Island. It was as if a bomb landed — or a catastrophic tornado decided to go for a very slow walk. Entire communities were flattened, leaving up to 70,000 people homeless. As of October 4, the official death toll stood at 58, and more than 600 people remained missing. We were heartbroken when the first details and photographs hit the news. Life in the islands clearly will never be the same. But it will, thankfully, go on.
Abaconian
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arkness blanketed the Sovereign Yacht Sales parking lot as we unloaded our gear and rubbed the sleep from our eyes. A smudge of pink to the east told us that a new day would soon break, and when it did, we needed to be on our way. The Carver Yachts C52 Coupe stood out like a blazing birthday cake, lights twinkling and engines rumbling. Our captain and his family — all experienced boaters bound for the Pulaski, Wisconsin-based boatbuilder’s annual owners’ rendezvous in Marsh Harbour, Bahamas — regaled us with stories of past bluewater crossings. Don’t worry, they said, setting our first-timer nerves at ease. The sea has been like a millpond for the last week, they told us, and we might even be able to sit in the bow lounges all the way from Stuart, Florida, to the West End. Get ready to relax, soak up the sun and enjoy the ride. On that promising note, we cast off the docklines and slid into the St. Lucie River. A fresh breeze ruffled our hair and sent ripples skittering along the water’s surface, but surely there was nothing to worry about. Just our luck. When we reached the inlet — the confirmed rendezvous spot for the several cruising yachts and large center console fishing boats that would be making the crossing together — the Atlantic was heaving. The captain did his best to maneuver the rolling C52 in broad circles while we waited, but one crewmember disappeared belowdecks within minutes, not to re-emerge until landfall nearly six hours later. The rest of us endured the barrage of salt spray in the cockpit, stared intently at the horizon and dreamed of a Seakeeper installation. The bow lounges, to say the very least, would not be in the cards today.
Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour, West End
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after we assured her that no one would volunteer to dig around for the real ones. Stomach of steel, that child. My husband and I, on the other hand, spent nearly six hours alternating between attempted sleep and staring at the circle of spindrift-decorated blue around us. Then we saw it. The fuzzy line on the horizon that took on a greenish hue and soon bristled with vegetation and man-made structures. We had arrived at The West End.
Ready for adventure
Admittedly, in rough conditions, six hours feels like a very long time. As Gordon Lightfoot advised years ago, waves can indeed turn the minutes to hours. As we pulled into the Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour, however, the dancing palms and brightly colored buildings clinging to the sandy earth reminded us that we had, in fact, landed in a different country after a relatively short journey. The Commonwealth of the Bahamas is part of the Lucayan Archipelago, which comprises more than 700 islands, cays and islets in the Atlantic Ocean. Less than 100 miles from the U.S. mainland, we had completed our first bluewater passage as a family and were now officially on island time. Our entire group cleared customs at Old Bahama Bay, spent the night at the resort, and then departed after breakfast for our final destination: The Abacos. These limestone islands in the northern Bahamas are also known as the Friendly Islands and the Family Islands. By mid-afternoon, the C52 was snugged into her berth at the Abaco Beach Resort & Yacht Harbour, just a stone’s throw from Marsh Harbour on Great Abaco Island, and we were ready for adventure. Boaters who make the crossing from Florida can easily explore the Abacos with their own vessels. Or, if they know the shallow, lagoon-like Sea of Abaco reasonably well, they can rent dayboats in Marsh Harbour. As new arrivals, however, we elected to hire a local tour operator. We chose Froggie’s Out Island Adventures, based in vibrant Hope Town on Elbow Cay. Our Froggie’s captain picked us up in Marsh Harbour, took us to the Hope Town base to get our snorkel gear, and we were in for a unique Abaconian experience. We motored northwestward through the Sea of Abaco, leaving Great Abaco to port and watching the sea’s outer islands slide past to starboard: Man O’ War Cay, Scotland Cay, Great Guana Cay, Whale Cay and finally little uninhabited No Name Cay. Well, not entirely uninhabited; No Name Cay is home to the famous swimming pigs of Abaco.
A river in the sea Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill, Great Guana Cay
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Making landfall at the West End
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for the whole AN OffseAson Adventure close to home. fAmily lies remArkAbly
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Treasures
The St. Lucie Inlet is roughly 80 nautical miles from the Bahamas’ West End. Between is the Gulf Stream, a warm, fast ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico, rounds the tip of Florida, and races northward along the East Coast to Newfoundland before crossing the Atlantic Ocean. Its volume is greater than all of America’s eastern rivers combined. It is, essentially, a river in the sea, and has a notorious temper in inclement weather — or if the wind clocks to the northwest, north or northeast. The resulting waves resemble those on the Great Lakes rather than those on the open ocean; they’re steep, breaking and dangerous. Fortunately for us, the wind was not out of the dreaded north. But it was strengthening, and our southeasterly direction across the swift-running stream to the West End guaranteed a bumpy ride. And a bumpy ride is exactly what we got. Three- to 4-foot seas created a constant pounding, while the occasional 5- to 6-footers left our stomachs somewhere on the salon ceiling (we’d long since abandoned the wet cockpit), rattling our fillings and ensuring that books and games would remain untouched in our luggage. Somehow, our 9-year-old daughter, Johanna, was fine. She played her games, watched “Looney Tunes” on an iPad, and created playing cards with blank paper, markers and scissors
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Great Guana Cay Town Dock
The famous candy-striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse at Hope Town, Elbow Cay
Welcome to Piggyville
The cobalt water gradually took on a turquoise hue as we ghosted into the shallows off No Name Cay’s southwestern shoreline. We dropped the hook onto a sandy bottom near several other visiting boats, clambered onto the swim platform and splashed ashore. Before we could get to the beach, several adult pigs broke from their fan club in the trees and trotted toward us, clearly prepared to accept whatever offerings we might have brought for them. Pigs have lived on No Name Cay for approximately seven
Finally! The bow lounges!
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The stunning beach below Nipper’s on Great Guana Cay
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Support the Swimming Pigs
The swimming pigs at No Name Cay have become Bahamian celebrities, and a visit to Piggyville is now on the bucket list of countless tourists who arrive via private boats or with tour operators. Yet the animals still struggle to survive on this little island, and Craig Russell has financed their care largely out of his own pocket. If you love the pigs, there are a few ways you can help: n If you’re planning to travel to No Name Cay, bring healthy foods (fresh fruit, vegetables and swine food) and at least a couple gallons of fresh water.
“We fell in love with the underwater world all over Kids can learn to snorkel off the beach and along the dock at the Abaco Beach Resort
Meeting a new friend at the appropriately named Green Turtle Cay
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n If you’d like to support the pigs’ care from afar, please consider making a contribution to Craig Russell’s “Abaco Swimming Pigs” fundraiser at GOFUNDME. COM/ABACO-SWIMMING-PIGS.
These funds have paid for Piggyville’s rain-catching system, and they continue to help pay for swine food and other expenses. n Stay connected to Piggyville through Russell’s “Pig Whisperer Abaco Swimming Pigs” page on Facebook. n Remember: Please don’t pick up any piglets without permission and guidance from Craig Russell (pictured here in the green T-shirt).
again.”
years, when local Abaconians left five of them on the island. Their story might have had a sad ending had it not been for Craig Russell. “I was driving by in my little 14-foot boat about six and a half years ago, and I saw five pigs on the beach,” he recalls. “I realized no one was taking care of them. They were very thin and had no food or water. I love animals and couldn’t just do nothing to help them.” Russell travels to the cay regularly, usually on Wednesdays and Saturdays, but more often during vacations and holidays. As the pigs have few resources on the island, the 30 currently living there depend on humans — Russell in particular — for survival. As we dropped food into the pigs’ mouths, attempting to keep our fingers clear while watching our backs for enthusiastic companions approaching from the rear, our captain took jugs of fresh water to shore. It was there we spotted Russell’s lean frame as he moved between visitors, gently offering guidance. “A lot of visitors give the pigs bread, which is not good for them, especially the little ones,” he explains. “It’s best to feed them fruits and vegetables, or buy a bag of swine food in Marsh Harbour. I always chop coconuts for them, which is probably their favorite. Apples are a close second, and they really like the dry swine food. “Always feed with your hand flat, because people get bitten trying to feed the pigs with their fingers out,” Russell continues. “They think it’s finger food. If you’re feeding them, you also have to be careful they don’t sneak up behind you to take your food and accidentally bite you.” In fact, if you’re visiting No Name Cay and don’t see Russell, ask your captain to come along while you interact with the pigs. Local skippers can provide valuable information — and help watch your back. Although Russell did allow our daughter to hold one friendly piglet with his supervision, he does not encourage visitors to randomly grab the young ones. Not only might you find yourself on the receiving end of a mother’s wrath, other adult pigs might harm a piglet if they detect a human scent. “And please don’t try to ride (or tease) them,” Russell adds. “They are very smart and just want to be treated well. Enjoy them, and give them some love.”
Very close and far away
Although we were heartbroken to leave the gregarious pigs behind, a new adventure awaited just north of No Name Cay. At the appropriately named Green Turtle Cay, we nosed into a quiet harbor for a quick snorkel excursion, and our daughter came face to face with her first sea turtle. The day prior, Johanna learned to snorkel along the resort dock, where she could examine undersea life in user-friendly, shallow water. Newly confident, she stepped off the swim platform, and within minutes, we spotted a shadow just below the surface, gliding her way. The turtle seemed just as fascinated with Johanna as she was with it, circling around her to gaze into her face mask. Mere inches separated them. Johanna squealed into her snorkel, finned in a broad circle, and squealed again as the turtle spun with her. Only a rumbling tummy convinced her to say goodbye to her new friend. We motored south to Great Guana Cay for a late lunch at the rollicking Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill, and then crossed the Sea of Abaco for our last stop of the day. Mermaid Reef lies near Great Abaco’s shoreline and is accessible by both land and boat, with mooring buoys available for vessels less than 25 feet in length. Our captain advised us to keep our snorkel time short due to rising wind and seas, then set us free. Although my husband and I are both certified PADI Advanced Open Water divers, it’s been years since we spent much time beneath the surface, and we fell in love with the underwater world all over again. Together with our little girl, we swam among schools of yellowtail, snappers, butterfly fish and trumpet fish. We spotted barracuda. And we heard the crunching sounds of myriad critters enjoying a coral meal. Returning to the Abaco Beach Resort as the sun fell toward the western horizon, we realized how special these Abaconian treasures are. They’re accessible, yet provide just enough adventure to make you feel like you’re a world away from home. H
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Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour “My husband and I… spent nearly six hours alternating between attempted sleep and staring at the circle of spindrift-decorated blue around us,” I wrote last year in my Lakeland Boating article. “Then we saw it. The fuzzy line on the horizon that took on a greenish hue and soon bristled with vegetation and man-made structures. We had arrived at the West End.” Although Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour, at the West End of Grand Bahama Island, endured nearly two full days of violent Cat 5 conditions, it remained largely intact when Dorian finally moved on. Its staff immediately took action, turning the resort into the command center for all donated relief supplies in West End, working in cooperation with the Bahamian government, local authorities and the National Emergency Management Agency. Phase one focused on flying in — and boating
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in — supplies for immediate relief efforts. Phase two involves filling 75 shipping containers with sorted relief goods, shipping them to the Bahamas, and delivering and distributing the goods in areas of greatest need. At press time, the resort was also preparing for a significant milestone: Reopening the resort to guests on November 1. Abaco Beach Resort & Yacht Harbour “Johanna learned to snorkel along the resort dock, where she could examine undersea life in user-friendly, shallow water.” During our 2018 stay in the Abacos, we made the Abaco Beach Resort & Yacht Harbour our home base. Just a stone’s throw from Marsh Harbour, it was the perfect spot to arrange day trips to Elbow Cay, Great Guana Cay and points farther afield — or simply to enjoy happy sun-soaked hours along the beach, as our daughter experienced the underwater world for the first time. Like Old Bahama Bay, the Abaco Beach Resort sustained significant damage. Fortunately, in Dorian’s wake, all were safe. “Our first priority and concern has been the well-being of our staff, their families and, by extension, the wider Abaco community,” resort management reported. “The immediate good news is that there was no loss of life to our guests and staff (who) remained at the resort during the hurricane.” In addition to mobilizing cleanup teams, the resort immediately began offering assistance. As its commercial kitchen remained operable, it was able to host Chef Jose Andreas of the nonprofit World Central Kitchen (WCK); in the days to come, WCK would serve thousands of meals to Abaconians in need. As of October 2, Marsh Harbour still didn’t have electricity or running water. The Abaco Beach Resort remained closed to guests at press time. Piggyville at No Name Cay “Before we could get to the beach, several adult pigs broke from their fan club in the trees and trotted toward us, clearly prepared to accept whatever offerings we might have brought for them… ‘They are very smart and just want to be treated well. Enjoy them, and give them some love.’” We couldn’t help but worry about the enthusiastic, friendly pigs that Green Turtle Cay resident Craig Russell had tended with such care for so many years. We knew that Russell was no longer caretaker, as the property had been sold and now boasted a dock, bar and restaurant. Immediately post-Dorian, we couldn’t find any information about how No Name Cay’s famous four-legged residents had fared.
PHOTOS F ROM ORIGINAL ARTICLE BY RICH ARD STEINB ERG ER
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TOP PHOTOS COU RTESY OF COAST GUARD NEWS; LIGHTH OUSE PH OTO BY KENT LEBOUTILLIER
We grieved for them. The pigs couldn’t have survived such a vicious storm on a small, sandy cay, especially with a 20-plus-foot storm surge. Then, one day, a video popped up on my Facebook feed. An island, with vegetation in tatters and the wreckage of a building in the background. A pig, cheerfully approaching in search of treats. And another, and another. “We’re survivors,” the post said simply. (And in case anyone was wondering, “The chickens too.”) Happily, after many days of searching, I found Craig Russell’s name, and that of his wife, Jan, on one of the many “found” lists making the rounds on social media. They survived as well, along with all of their fellow residents on nearby Green Turtle Cay. Around the Abacos “We motored northwestward through the Sea of Abaco, leaving Great Abaco to port and watching the sea’s outer islands slide past to starboard… Man O’War Cay, Scotland Cay, Great Guana Cay… [home to the] rollicking Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill.” It was heart-wrenching to look through the photos in last year’s feature, knowing that the subjects in those images were either gone or forever changed. Nipper’s, sadly, is one of the Abaconian treasures that has been destroyed. Its displaced owners, who are currently living in West Palm Beach, shared their sorrow on social media. “Nipper’s has been our blood, sweat and tears for the past 23 years, and it will take additional blood, increased sweat, many, many more tears and ultimately years to accomplish a rebuild,” they wrote. “We will strive to generate Nipper’s how we left it, pre-Dorian … [we] remain dedicated to Nipper’s, our faithful staff and, of course, the exceptional community of Great Guana Cay.” Fortunately, all Great Guana Cay residents who remained during Dorian were confirmed safe. Nipper’s owners also reported that Eddie the cat, beloved among regulars, survived the storm. The Abacos are still reeling, but thousands of residents remain committed to their island homes, determined to rebuild their shattered communities. They are putting their lives back together, slowly, piece by piece. On Green Turtle Cay, school is back in session. Great Guana Cay is sporting new roofs and houses, and welcoming the return of both internet service and green fig leaves.
At Hope Town, hundreds of residents are sharing both homes and meals while cleanup efforts continue. And, at the candy-striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse, the light is shining over the Abacos once again. ★
HOW TO HELP Make a donation: The Bahamas government has assembled lists of approved and trusted partners in the United States, Canada, Bahamas, Europe and Asia. BAHAMAS.COM/RELIEF
Plan a trip: Remember that the Bahamas is heavily dependent on its $4.3 billion tourism industry, so one of the best ways to support the country post-Dorian is to plan a vacation — either by air or cruise ship. According to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation, the following islands are welcoming visitors: Nassau, Paradise Island, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Andros, Bimini and the Berry Islands in the northwest Bahamas; and the Exumas, Cat Island, San Salvador, Rum Cay, Long Island, Acklins/Crooked Island, Mayaguana and Inagua in the central and southern Bahamas.
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HEATHER STEINBERGER is an award-winning writer/ editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 20 years. Visit her website at WRITEONLLC.COM.
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ELECTRONICS BY G L E N N H AY E S
Smart Gift Guide Electronics to gift tech-savvy boaters on your list. t’s that time of year again to start thinking about that perfect gift for the boaters in your life. Fortunately, there’s a wide range of possibilities for the novice boater and for the old salt that has it all. Below are just a few gift ideas that can make any boater’s day on the water safer and more enjoyable.
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1 ACR ResQLink 400 PLB Give the gift of safety with the new ACR ResQLink 400. This small but capable personal locator beacon (PLB) has a built-in GPS and can send an emergency distress signal with GPS coordinates via satellite from anywhere in the world. With no subscription requirements or fees, this buoyant beacon can transmit a Mayday signal with the simple push of a button. About as tall and half as wide as a standard smartphone, this device easily fits in the palm of your hand and can be attached to a belt or life jacket with the included multifunction clip. Feature-rich, this PLB has a five-year battery life and can operate for 24 hours continuously. There are also built-in strobes to aid in visual location once help arrives. Being a PLB, the ACR ResQLink 400 is registered to the individual rather than the vessel, as an EPIRB would be. This means the PLB can go anywhere with you — from boat to boat, on a vacation or even a trip into the wilderness, enabling help to be summoned from literally anywhere in the world. $309.99 AT ACRARTEX.COM .
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GLENN HAYES is a marine writer and photographer whose background in the marine industry and in marine electronics spans almost three decades and many thousands of miles at sea traveling the world. He can be reached at HAYESSTUDIOS.COM .
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2 Garmin Quatix 5 Smartwatches have come a long way recently, and Garmin’s Quatix 5 is no exception. This robust but attractive watch not only looks good and notifies its owner of texts and emails, but can also control the owner’s boat. Streaming data from the vessel’s Garmin Chartplotter, this watch can display data on your wrist, such as speed, depth, temperature and wind. It can even control the vessel’s Garmin autopilot functions from anywhere aboard and perform certain GPS functions. Other capabilities of this smartwatch include sail racing features any racer can appreciate. Virtual start lines, race countdowns, timers, and tack assist are just some of the useful data that can be displayed on the watch face. If you enjoy paddle sports, this watch also has features for you. It will track your stroke, distance per stroke, as well as total distance traveled. Speed and lap tracking also can be displayed. If traveling by land or water, the built-in GPS is capable of various navigation and tracking functions. Top these with a built-in electronic compass and barometer, and you will have a very capable navigation device on water and on land. |
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Combined with Fusion Stereo Active, this watch can control onboard audio via the Fusion Link Lite app loaded on the watch. Of course, it’s also capable of other functions common on sport watches, such as heart rate and active tracking, as well as smart connectivity to phones and other devices. Customization is easy with many band options to match any taste or fashion sense. $549.99 AT GARMIN.COM.
3 Relief Band 2.0 Another wearable tech device that can improve your time on the water is the Relief Band 2.0. This stylish and ingenious device looks like a fitness band, but is designed to relieve nausea and motion sickness. This 100% drug-free wristband works by releasing gentle pulses to the underside of the wrist in a process called neuromodulation. These pulses stimulate a nerve on the underside of the wrist that aid in the elimination of nausea and motion sickness. This active therapy can act as a preemptive measure or during the onset of symptoms of motion sickness. Originally launched in hospitals, this technology has also proven successful in combating nausea related to chemotherapy and postoperative nausea. There are no side effects and Relief Band offers a 30-day money-back guarantee along with a one-year warranty. Anyone who has suffered from motion sickness would certainly appreciate this gift. $199.99 AT RELIEFBAND.COM. 4 SpotX The Globalstar SpotX is a small, standalone, two-way satellite communicator that can send and receive texts via satellite from most places around the globe. This handheld device can also act as an emergency communicator summoning search and rescue with the push of a button. Texts can be easily created through the built-in keyboard or via a Bluetooth connection to a smartphone. Each SpotX comes with its own dedicated U.S. mobile number allowing for simple two-way satellite texting where there is no cellular coverage. Friends and family can also track progress through a Google Maps interface and automatic position transmissions. Simple check in and posting to social media accounts are also possible. With no annual commitments and month-to-month flexible plans available, this device is a great option for the occasional boater, as well as the full-time adventurer. Battery life is impressive with a rechargeable lithium battery that offers up to 240 hours of battery life while transmitting position every 10 minutes. Compact, lightweight, waterproof and impact-resistant, this communicator can keep you connected anywhere. $249.99 AT FINDMESPOT.COM. ★
PHOTOS BY GLENN HAYES
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SAFETY FIRST BY HEL EN A I T K EN
Safety Stocking Stuffers Seven Santa-approved boating safety gift ideas.
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eason’s Greetings! What do you give the boater who has everything? The answer is gifts that make being on the water better and safer but don’t break the piggy bank. From products that protect your boat’s snaps and zippers or extend the size of a life jacket belt to a fishing knot tying tool or a kayak dry bag, here are some practical safety stocking stuffers sure to bring a smile to the boater on your shopping list. No one enjoys fighting with stuck zippers or rusty snaps that don’t open or stay closed. Star brite’s Snap & Zipper Lubricant is perfect for vinyl cushions, Biminis, boat covers and enclosures, expensive bear-resistant coolers and more. This product lubricates both metal and plastic parts to protect against future corrosion, friction wear and water spray. It’s non-toxic, doesn’t stain, won’t rinse off and works down to -65 degrees Fahrenheit. $11.50 AT AMAZON.COM.
Having life jackets onboard that fit all passengers of all shapes and sizes can be problematic; if only there was a way to enlarge them! The Mustang Survival Belt Extender is the answer. This 12-inch nylon webbing belt extends the girth of an inflatable life jacket with either 1.5- or 2-inch-wide buckles using a plastic squeeze slide buckle. $19.99 AT MUSTANGSURVIVAL.COM. Don’t lose your paddle or fishing pole while on a kayak. The Seattle Sports Multi Leash is a stretchy lanyard leash that extends to 48 inches and retracts to 32 inches. A heavy-duty tubular webbing covers an inside bungee, while a snap hook attaches to a life jacket or kayak and the adjustable hook and loop strap secures the pole. $14.95 AT SEATTLESPORTSCO.COM.
Dealing with slippery monofilament line while tying a fishing hook knot can be tedious — even dangerous. The Hook-Eze Fishing Knot Tying Tool is safe and easy for children and adults to use on different hooks from freshwater to ice fishing, and especially useful for those with arthritis, numb fingers and in cold weather. The system holds hooks and swivels (even small flies) steady while you tie the line. Hook-Eze is suitable for standard 4/0 hooks down to the smallest No. 28. It also includes a hook cover for safe transportation. $12.95 AT HOOKEZE .COM. Don’t worry about dropping your keys overboard. Using the Davis Key Buoy, if keys accidentally sink, the key ring opens, self inflates, and within 30 seconds the keys float to the surface. The single-use key buoy works for a set of keys or single items up to 2.8 ounces. This nice-looking key fob outclasses the foam and chain freebies. At this price, buy some for all your boating friends. $6.99 AT DAVISINSTRUMENTS.COM. The SealLine Discovery Deck Dry Bag has an adjustable carry strap and lash points, holds between 10 to 50 liters and is the perfect size for carrying or stowing items in a kayak or boat. Rugged and flexible, it rests on a stable oval bottom and compresses after being sealed. It closes with a roll-top closure, and welded seams make it waterproof. The PurgeAir valve vents trap air, helping the dry bag compress further after being sealed. Available in a variety of colors and sizes. $49.95 TO $81.95 AT SEALLINEGEAR.COM.
Finally, the Seattle Sports SplitShot Throw Bag is perfect for paddle boats to help tow another vessel with 50 feet of high visibility 5/16-inch floating polypropylene rope. The mesh panel allows for drainage while the foam insert keeps it floating. The throw bag snaps closed with a Whistleloc buckle that may be used as an emergency whistle. Secured and balanced for throwing, the line exits from the mesh side opposite the large grab handle, and its flat profile makes it easily stored. $29.95 AT SEATTLESPORTSCO.COM.
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HELEN AITKEN is a boating writer, photographer and science educator from eastern North Carolina. She loves classic wooden boats, is a U.S. Power Squadrons member and plays in the Intracoastal Waterway. Visit her website at AITKENHELEN.COM.
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BOAT TEST
STINGRAY 231DC BY CRAIG RITCHIE
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tingray Boats has been on a bit of a tear over the past several years, as the venerable fiberglass boatbuilder continues to refine its legacy of performance through constant innovation. The smooth, flowing lines gracing its elegant deckboats, sportboats, center consoles and runabouts conceal multiple layers of increasingly sophisticated engineering, delivering what Stingray Boats founder Al Fink once described as “an exhilarating thrill ride that’s safe enough anyone can drive it.” That’s certainly an apt description for the
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Hartsville, South Carolina company’s all-new 231DC, a delightful dual console dayboat that magically combines sumptuous comfort, exceptional versatility and thrilling performance in a sporty yet elegant design. Even at first glance as you approach the boat at the slip, the Stingray performance DNA is obvious. Riding on a second-generation Z-Plane hull that incorporates new design elements to make the most of today’s high-tech outboards, the refined hull form is fruit of Stingray’s significant investments in computer
PHOTOS COU RTESY OF STING RAY
Built to inspire.
design and precision manufacturing. That includes a state-of-the-art CAD design studio where design engineers render the boat complete with little 3D human forms, revealing exactly how passengers might fit into the seats or behind the helm — all without ever having to build the traditional plywood mockup. Not only does this significantly cut development costs to keep retail prices in line, it’s a critical design process that ensures you’ll never feel cramped, bump elbows with your fellow passengers or run out of storage space for your gear.
STINGRAY 231DC SPECIFICATIONS
DEALERS
LOA: 23'8"
CenterPointe Yacht Service CENTERPOINTESERVICE .COM
Beam: 8'4" Weight: 3,648 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 56 gals.
Grand Valley Marine GRANDVALLEYMARINE .COM
Marine Center of Indiana
Water Capacity: 13 gals.
MARINECENTERUSA .COM
Passenger Capacity: 12
Munson Marine
Max Power: 300 hp MSRP: $84,961 STINGRAYBOATS.COM
MUNSONMARINE .COM
Wonderland Marine West WONDERLANDMARINEWEST.COM
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ALL ABOARD
While the 231DC commands your attention at once with its sporty good looks, it’s the boat’s plush seating and impeccable upholstery work that really beckons you to step aboard and get comfy. All Stingray models get a completely new upholstery upgrade for the 2020 model year, utilizing a lush, super-soft vinyl with a pebbled finish that’s reminiscent of a classic sports car. Available in tan, grey or white/coal finishes, the new seating gives all of the boats a thoroughly modern, contemporary look that’s especially evident on the 231DC. Our test boat was furnished with the grey upholstery, which perfectly complemented its brilliant red hull and black bottom. The easiest way to board the 231DC from the dock is via its deep, split swim platform, which features a transom pass-through into the cockpit on the starboard side of the boat. Finished in SeaDek soft-touch non-skid, the platform allows plenty of space to pass in front of the big Mercury 250. Look more closely and you notice the stainless steel grab handles, stainless retractable four-step boarding ladder and the dual stainless cup holders mounted along the top of the transom. Our test boat came with Stingray’s optional fishing package, adding four flush-mount stainless rod holders across the transom, along with a pop-up stainless ski pole. It’s also hard to ignore the big Mercury out back. The choice of outboard power makes a lot of sense on a boat like the 231DC, allowing Stingray to make the most of its already generous interior space and even gain a little more by moving the engine aft of the transom. Where Stingray used to manufacture sterndrive-powered boats exclusively, today outboard-powered boats represent 78% of its production, reflecting consumer tastes for open cockpits and big four-strokes.
CULTURE CLUB
One of the nicest design elements on the 231DC is its focus on family fun, offering multiple zones within the boat where parents and kids alike can enjoy their time afloat. The aft cockpit is a perfect example of this philosophy, with wraparound seating that creates a comfortable conversation space with plenty of room for everyone to join in. Step through the transom pass-through and a near full-width bench seat across the stern anchors the cockpit. The seat continues up the port side of the boat while opposite, a starboard-side lounge with thick side coaming allows comfortable seating facing aft, sideways, or forward into the main cockpit. Swiveling pedestal seats for the driver and companion rotate to provide even more cockpit seating, creating a literal living room on the water. Throughout the aft cockpit, stainless steel cup holders and grab handles ensure that a cold drink or supportive hand-hold are never out of reach. The self-draining cockpit floor in our test boat was finished in SeaDek snap-in flooring for added passenger comfort. Overhead, our test boat came with Stingray’s optional folding wakeboard tower, complete with an integrated Bimini top. The real piece de resistance in the cockpit, however, is the starboard-side entertainment unit, consisting of a moderately sized console with a solid-surface countertop, a large sink and a residential-style faucet. A large door below opens to reveal a convenient and generously sized trash bin. The helm console is very neatly designed, with an integrated, oversized storage compartment accessed via a wide side door and the dash console formed from light grey fiberglass for a fresh look accented by a woodgrain instrument panel. In our test boat, the panel was dominated by a Garmin GPSMAP 742xs multifunction display sharing the space with a Mercury SmartCraft display. Below, the sporty black-on-chrome padded sport steering wheel with tilt feature was flanked by a Fusion RA670 stereo with remote control, which on our test boat fed into a concealed Fusion 1,400-watt four-channel digital amp for incredible sound quality. To the right of the wheel is a neat panel of illuminated rocker switches for electrical components, along with controls for the Bennett trim tabs installed on our test boat. Below, dual USB and 12V outlets ensure that personal devices remain fully charged through the day. A courtesy light on the side of the console is a nice touch, as are the opening side vents in the racy, low-profile windshield. The passenger console houses an amazingly spacious head compartment, complete with a porta-potti with dockside pump-out, a small vanity with sink and an opening porthole for plenty of fresh air. Where the swim platform and aft cockpit are focus areas on this boat, so too is the wide and roomy bow, which forms the third separate zone onboard. Wraparound seating starts with twin forward-facing loungers on each side, with plenty of space to put your feet up and unwind. The 231DC differs from many of its contemporaries in the bow, which is not just wide but deeper
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than most — to the point that the wraparound coaming actually functions as a useful seatback when facing to the side or aft. Four stainless steel beverage holders integrated into the gunnels make this a terrific place for private conversations or just to catch some sun. Add a couple of filler cushions and it gets even better, turning the entire area into a big, inviting sunpad. A low-profile, wraparound stainless steel railing provides a measure of added security, especially when seated up front while underway. At rest, the addition of a bow swim platform topped with SeaDek speaks to the 231DC’s fun side.
JOY RIDER
Don’t be fooled by its beamy hull and 3,600-pound dry weight, the 231DC is very much a Stingray in every sense, and that means you better hang on to your hat when the time comes to pin the throttle and unleash the ponies — 250 of them in the case of our test boat — securely bolted to its transom. Even with a full load and full fuel, the 231DC’s performance pedigree quickly shines through as you pour the power on, delivering near-instantaneous planing times thanks to the stellar performance of Stingray’s second-generation Z-Plane hull. With a touch on negative trim the boat planes promptly without any significant bow rise, quickly settling into a pleasing running attitude. Turns are where the Z-Plane really begins to shine, with the boat simply leaning in and going where it’s told. Handling at speed is delightful, with the hull responding readily to steering inputs and taking sharp turns without any sign of prop ventilation. At full throttle this is a legitimate 50 mph boat that delivers a thrilling ride while still providing excellent fuel economy. It doesn’t take long to develop a real attachment to Stingray’s brilliant 231DC. Designed with a focus on family fun, this is a fast, comfortable and versatile dayboat that represents truly great value. H
STINGRAY 225SE: MEET THE POCKET ROCKET Offered as a 40th anniversary special edition model, Stingray’s new 225SE is a retro rocket that embodies the very best of the company’s legendary performance standards. With its sleek, low-profile windshield and racy looks, this boat looks fast even when it’s still tied up to the dock. Get out on the water and unleash the full power of its 300-hp Volvo Penta DuoProp and the sleek 225SE quickly reaches top speeds in excess of 58 mph for an exhilarating ride like no other. The retro rocket appearance continues with solidcolor gelcoat options for both the hull and deck, a custom black dash, black vent covers, black rub rail and even a custom black Stingray logo treatment. But it’s a mistake to think of the 225SE as just a go-fast speedboat. Special sport upholstery, including an SX-style sundeck, ensures that everyone onboard rides in comfort, with twin forward-facing loungers in the bow that can be connected with a filler cushion to convert the space into a large single sunpad. Stainless SPECIFICATIONS steel cup holders and grab handles add upscale touches to an already inviting space. LOA: 22'11" The driver and passenger ride on pedestal-mount bucket seats with flip-up bolsters. The passenger console Beam: 8'3" houses a large storage compartment, a glove box and a convenient mesh storage space for small items Weight (dry): 3,364 lbs. like sunscreen or insect repellent. Opposite, the sporty looking helm features a striking chrome-on-black Fuel Capacity: 56 gals. steering wheel, accented by a dash panel with a speedometer, tachometer, trim, fuel and volt gauges all set in Passenger Capacity: 10 handsome chrome bezel gauges. There’s Max Power: 300 hp also an optional depth meter and a neat MSRP: $69,744 row of rocker switches for electrical STINGRAYBOATS.COM accessories, along with controls for the available trim tabs. As inviting as the helm may be, it’s the aft cockpit that will see the most traffic in the 225SE, with its inviting U-shaped lounge and spacious stern sunpad, which includes a centerline walk-through to the SeaDek-finished swim platform. SeaDek flooring throughout the entire boat ensures plush comfort and outstanding non-slip qualities.
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BOAT TEST
SCARAB 255 OPEN ID
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en years ago, center consoles meant one thing: Fishing. A decade later, extensive customer research suggests most buyers only fish about 30% of the time, meaning that new boats better be good at entertaining and easily set up for watersports. Meet the Scarab 255 Open ID. This twin Rotax Jet Power rocket ship is a center console layout that has smoking hot looks and sizzling speed — 57 mph with a full canvas up! There is a fishing package option, a T-top for towing, and just the right number of features, like USB power outlets for smartphones, scads of cup holders and a rocking stereo. FLYING COLORS A sea trial on nearly perfect, flat water is normally a red flag for me because on most lakes the spin cycle is in full force by 2 p.m. To really test a boat, I need to know what your back feels like after pounding a wake or doing donuts ad nauseam while teaching a cousin how to tube or wakesurf.
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So, as a daily graduate of Dunkin Donuts, I insisted we churn up the water with the help of another boat and then make our test runs. Scarab passed with flying colors. Unique springreinforced seats make the roughest waters feel smooth. Up in the bow, I sensed the need to hold on once we topped 50 mph. Fortunately, the seating is in a U-shaped configuration and is surrounded by plenty of grab rails. Foam wall bolsters double as seat backs, and even at top speed well-positioned stereo speakers could be heard over the wind and waves. Calm things down at the sandbar or party cove and the bow reveals a few tricks. Install the filler cushion and the chaise lounges become a sunpad. An optional side-mount table makes the bow a place for lunch. Two 36-quart coolers are tucked away underneath the seats, and if you need more room, there’s yet another cooler in the forward bow that can double as an ice bin or livewell. Plus, there are hidden areas for anchor storage and a telescoping, wide-step bow ladder.
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a l a n w e ndt
TRANSFORMATIVE TAILGATE At 25 feet the boat is rated for 13 passengers, but I’m figuring they counted a lot of skinny bodies, unlike my donut-inflated physique. Yet the main cockpit easily accommodates adults in style. A cleverly designed dual helm, bench-style seat with adjustable bolsters has a center “jump” seat design. It’s like having that middle seat open on the plane coming home at night. A third passenger can stand with a backrest, or fold up the seat cushion and create a three-wide stadium-like seating configuration at the helm. Scarab has a highly polished stainless steel three-spoke muscle wheel, flush-mounted Simrad MFD and custom instrumentation panel that includes fuel level, fuel consumption, tach, GPS, speed, hour meter, compass, oil, volt, overheat and check engine indicators. Perhaps the most interesting characteristic of the 255 Open ID is a transom tailgate that lowers and opens down, akin to a pickup truck tailgate. Amazingly simple to operate thanks to gas struts, this makes loading the
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCARAB
The family man’s center console. by
boat at a dock easy while creating a shareable swim deck out on the water. Even when the tailgate is raised, there is a 10-inch deck that can be used as a stepping platform coupled with a four-step reboarding ladder. With the tailgate closed, the rearmost passengers can face aft and watch the skiing or tubing action. Or remove the seatbacks at the party cove and you’ve created another relaxing sunpad that measures in excess of 6 feet. JET POWER One of the key selling points for families is the Rotax Jet Power. You do not need to worry about a propeller when swimming or skiing near the boat. No props to ding, no trim to master and drive by wire automatically synchronizes throttles. The self-draining and closed cooling translates into minimal maintenance and late
season convenience. A side benefit is the shallow draft, beneficial if water levels fluctuate. Engine tone is a tad louder than sterndrive or outboard power, but Rotax engines do have a very nice low-speed maneuverability and docking mode lateral thrust control system. Soft MarineMat decking for the cockpit and tailgate surface is a rather affordable option and it adds a sophisticated look without breaking the bank. A canvas T-top is standard, while a hardtop T-top that can fit board racks or rod holders is available as an option. This boat tips the scales at 3,800 pounds and on a trailer requires about 25 feet and change for indoor storage. For a family looking for a variety of watersports in a single day, the Scarab 255 Open ID delivers solid value, exceptional looks and years of reliability. ★
SCARAB 255 OPEN ID SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 25' Beam: 8'4" Draft: 15" Weight: 3,800 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 56 gals. Water Capacity: 12 gals. Max Power: 600 hp Base Price: $71,467 SCARABJETBOATS.COM
DEALERS Hall’s Sport Center
Thayer Marine
HALLSSPORTCENTER. COM
THAYERMARINE .COM
SkipperBud’s SKIPPERBUDS.COM
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BOAT TEST
WORLD CAT 400DC-X
WORLD CAT 400DC-X SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 39'8"
BUYER’S CHOICE
Beam: 12'8"
World Cat knows buyers do their own ad-libbing in terms of features and options, and the new 40-foot power catamaran can be customized in 12 different ways to adapt to each owner’s basic needs. “Whether a customer is looking for a summer kitchen with electric grill, 60-gallon livewell, chiller box, bait rigging station, dive tank storage or additional seating, there is a combination that fits each owner’s usage,” according to World Cat CEO Andrew Brown. “We build these as one-offs and offer the buyer the ability to monitor and customize their yacht as it progresses.” Powered by Yamaha’s new 425-hp outboards coupled with a Helm Master Joystick, there are no motor wells to navigate around on the 30-square-foot aft deck. With a 12-foot, 8-inch beam boasting more than 200 square feet of usable deck space, there is ample room for both fishing and seating. For those unfamiliar with catamaran design, the large outboard sponsons create ample deck space that carries forward to the bow. Here, up to 12 adults can comfortably sit and take full advantage of two power-actuated tables that lower to the floor for bow side access. This may well be one of my favorite locations on the boat. Ideal for socializing, the two-tone upholstery has a rich feel, is comfortable on the back and creates its own “space” onboard.
Draft: 25" Weight: 15,000 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 464 gals. Water Capacity: 60 gals. Max Power: 850 hp MSRP: $794,458 WORLDCAT.COM
DEALERS Catawba Moorings Port Clinton, OH CATAWBAMOORINGS.COM
419-797-4775 Central Marine, Canada Midland, ON CENTRALMARINE .CA
855-226-1306
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hen World Cat announced a new flagship 400DC-X, I quickly pictured myself sitting behind the designer the moment marketing came in and handed over a list of must-haves to meet the everchanging customer demands. Having spent time in various boatbuilding plants, invariably in a designer’s cubicle tacked to the wall is the infamous line from “Jaws:” “You’re going to need a bigger boat.” That line, which landed at No. 3 on Hollywood’s Top 100 Movie Quotes, is heard at countless boat shows as buyers drop their jaws in awe gazing at the newest model that somehow manages to squeeze in extra features, appliances and iterations of the kitchen sink. In the case of World Cat’s 400DC-X, there is an uncanny resemblance between life imitating art. While filming “Jaws,” a barge that carried all the lights, camera equipment and craft services was steadied by a small support boat that was too tiny to manage the job. The running gag among the crew was — wait for it — “you’re going to need a bigger boat.” Actor Roy Scheider ad-libbed the scene with “Jaws” and the rest is history.
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Behind the sliding glass windshield enclosure, the U-lounge in the salon seats eight with multiple configurations for facing forward or reclining aft while watching the kids play off the large aft deck that features 38-inch-wide swim platforms and a power dive ladder. This is another ideal entertainment zone that gives couples a chance to visit, while the kids retreat to their own seating areas. Standard features include the integrated hardtop with sunroof and electric aft cockpit shade. An entertainment center with a drawer refrigerator, insulated cooler storage underneath one of the aft-facing seats, and a hot and cold deck shower wand complete the ensemble. For summer’s cool mornings and warm afternoons, you’ll want to consider helm heat/air conditioning vents. Underway, the AC is powered by an optional 9kW Fischer Panda diesel generator with 24-gallon diesel fuel tank. Another option is the Seakeeper 6 gyro stabilizer that industry wide is rapidly becoming de rigueur. While I’m spending your money, might as well throw in the two, easy-to-read, 17-inch Garmin 8617 MFD displays at the helm. There’s room for them and your eyes aren’t what they used to be.
ANSWERING THE CALL Performance wise, a top speed of 46 mph and a more reasonable 30 mph cruise speed helps deliver World Cat’s soft, rough-water ride. Making the transition from skippering a V-hull to the catamaran hull is at best a one-hour lesson with your dealer’s delivery captain. I liken it to buying a new car with a wider wheelbase and larger tires. It feels different but is much easier on the joints when the seas act up. This powercat hits the yacht mark with overnight accommodations that include a portside air conditioned queen berth stateroom that features a hanging locker cabinet with drawers, storage drawers under the berth, rod storage and a TV. In the starboard cabin is a freshwater head with walk-in shower, sink and vanity. While the hot water tank is only a 6-gallon capacity, the boat has a 60-gallon water tank. With a 464-gallon fuel tank, the 400DC-X can cruise to nearly any far-off destination. World Cat is also offering two other versions based on the 400 series hull: A 400CCX and 400TE-X (tournament edition) center console designed for serious fishing applications, dual rows of stadium seating and three massive in-deck fish boxes that easily answer the call for a bigger boat. H
PHOTOS COURTESY OF WORLD CAT
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LET THE BIG CAT OUT OF THE BAG. BY ALAN WENDT
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Give the next best thing. Lakeland Boating is the perfect holiday gift for your favorite boater. Call 800-827-0289 or visit lakelandboating.com to order a gift subscription TODAY!
BUYER’S GUIDE
2020
Must-have boats and gear to inspire your next boating season!
BUYER’S GUIDE 2020
SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION
Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover
HERE COMES THE FORMULA 380 Super Sport Crossover, continuing Formula’s open-bow, single level deck, full-cabin dayboat legacy without compromising full-width deck space and belowdecks accommodation, including sleeping for four, galley with sink and stand-up enclosed head. The 380’s Super Sport Crossover bloodline is evident in its SmartZone design, which utilizes every square inch for uninterrupted entertainment possibilities and offers a seamless transition to the bow with the flush cockpit sole. Spacious, 330-degree wraparound seating boasts comfortable support for an exhilarating ride and easy conversation underneath a full-width hardtop with a top-to-bottom windshield. An exclusive sliding bow window to port allows for an open, inviting cockpit experience. For relaxing at the sandbar or cove, head aft to the spacious, rearfacing sun lounge with individual backrests that easily adjust fore and aft. There’s easy water access off the roomy swim platform with under-mount swim ladder, or a choice of available hydraulic or stationary Water Sport extended swim platform.
The 380 cabin provides a completely residential experience centered on the U-shaped Ultraleather lounge, which converts for sleeping for two, and an aft cabin stateroom with a permanent queen-size bed. Head features include a molded vanity with Corian countertop, a sink with upscale Moen faucet, a woodgrain-finish lower cabinet, porcelain Flush and Forget Vacuflush head unit, and shower. The lower kitchen includes a spacious Corian sink with premium folding swivel spout and glide-away cover, overhead microwave, clever slide-out storage and concealed trash container. To port is a large pullout Isotherm stainless steel refrigerator, additional drawer storage, plus a slide-out drawer and shelf unit. The 380 Super Sport Crossover incorporates FAS3TECH multi-step hull technology and a molded structural grid to deliver the sure-footed performance that is a Formula hallmark. Everything you want in a performance, open day cruiser awaits you in the Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover.
FORMULA formulaboats.com
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BUYER’S GUIDE 2020
SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION
Do I Need Boat Insurance?
YOU’RE PROBABLY NOT required by law to have boat insurance, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need it. Even if your state does not require you to carry boat insurance, your bank will if you have a loan on the boat. Also, most marinas require proof of liability insurance before they will accept a contract for a slip or a mooring. If you’re required to carry boat insurance, your homeowner policy will generally not be acceptable to them because homeowner’s policies are usually limited to boats under a certain size or value, and they don’t have the necessary provisions to cover the types of losses that may occur with a boat. Look for “All Risk” policies, which provide coverage for a broad array of calamities that could befall your boat, including theft, vandalism, lightning, fire, grounding or sinking, and lost or stolen belongings. Look for options that will protect your personal items, such as watersports equipment and fishing gear, as well as provide towing coverage in the unfortunate event of a breakdown. Many companies also give you the option for an inexpensive policy that does not insure physical damage to your boat at all, but only provides a specified amount of coverage for your liability to others in the event of an accident, as well as protection from uninsured boaters. Even if you are not otherwise required to have insurance and your boat is not worth very much, you should still consider insuring it. A collision with a small powerboat can cause serious injuries, and even if you are not found liable for those injuries, you could end up spending a significant amount of money in legal fees to defend yourself. Get a quote on several different policies so you can make an informed decision based on the coverages versus the cost. The more your boat is worth, the more important insurance becomes to protect yourself from financial loss.
BOATU.S. boatus.com/insurance | 800-283-2883
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Marlow Explorer
FINE YACHTS HAVE TRADITIONALLY for centuries been defined by “fit and finish.” Today’s yachts can have high engineering standards, seaworthiness and style. When you choose an enduring traditionally styled yacht, you need to look no further than a Marlow Explorer if the best is your goal.
Quality is the hallmark of all Marlow Explorers. When the yacht is a Marlow Explorer, expectations are high. Standing tall among history’s finest examples of the boatbuilding art in design and execution. Built with the finest materials available in the industry, resourced sustainably from global locations and in-house. Our hulls and interior bulkhead designs utilize both aviation and offshore marine engineering principals to provide maximum interior volume and performance under all conditions. Interior finishes are as individual as each owner, with our highly skilled craftsmen demonstrating the art in joinery, metal work, composites construction techniques and impeccable stonework. The final product is a yacht of unparalleled beauty, performance and seaworthiness, with an established resale record for the past 19 years to be significantly higher than that of competing brands.
Our yachts are constructed utilizing our proprietary Strut Keel, designed to protect vital running gear from grounding or debris damage. The twin struts combined with our semidisplacement hulls provide superior tracking, positive fuel efficiency and impressive cruising comfort regardless of conditions. Our extensive use of Dupont Kevlar, carbon fiber and specifically engineered fabrics combined with proprietary resins and the Full-Stack Infusion process produce inherently stronger and more durable hulls able to take on the seven seas. Only three main component molds are used for our yachts, which means far fewer seams and less ability for water intrusion. All engine rooms are full height across our entire line enabling easier access for general maintenance. Our fuel tanks are a study in efficiency. They are fireproof, rustproof and enduring fuel-resistant composites with our design providing the highest usable percentage of tankage in the industry. Experiencing a Marlow Explorer for the first time is to fall in love with a yacht unlike any other. Designed and built to explore your world, from the Great Loop to a full circumnavigation of the globe, she will perform impeccably. Arrive at your destination and know why “Marlow Explorer yachts are the envy of the yachting world!”
MARLOW YACHTS marlowyachts.com
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SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION
Marquis M 42
ALMOST 20 YEARS AGO, Marquis Yachts impacted the sport yacht category by bringing the European stylings and design influence to the U.S. with the introduction of the Marquis Yachts 59. Once again, Marquis will do the same with the introduction of the new Marquis M 42 dayboat, which made its global debut at the 2019 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in late October. The M 42 will certainly make an impression while at rest, but is sure to make an impression cruising from place to place with twin 6.7 Cummins inboard diesel engines. The resin-infused hull is engineered to meet the varied demands of the owner: Confident turning at speed, shallow draft for those times and areas that require it and performance that makes your hair go back. The coup de grace of the M 42 is the cockpit. The cockpit is all about entertaining with a dance floor amount of space. Seating or sunbathing spots are abundant, including the large aft-facing sunbed and oversized starboard U-shaped seating arrangements for up to eight adults with a large fixed table. The starboard entertainment center with sink has the accommodations to add options such as a grill, icemaker and refrigerator for a relaxing day out on the water or to throw the perfect party. Add the optional hydraulic swim platform (inboard power only) and that entertaining and dance floor was just made even bigger. And to keep the sun in check, choose an optional hardtop or Bimini. For those times when you need to step away from the action, the cabin is a refreshing respite. Behind the locking sliding cabin
door, a galley with microwave, refrigerator, sink and storage is just down a couple steps. Forward is a large U-shaped seating configuration with table that converts to a queen-sized berth. The theme of space on the M 42 includes the use of a dedicated shower stall in the head. With more than 6.5 feet of headroom, hullside windows and tonal-colored surfaces and accents the cabin feels larger than it is.
MARQUIS YACHTS marquisyachts.com
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With Great Boating Comes Great Responsibility
THE WATER IS AN EXCELLENT place to escape to — it’s generally peaceful and inviting. But what if the unthinkable happens: You collide with another boat, or hit someone’s wake and your passenger is injured? “Boat insurance might not be top-ofmind when you purchase a boat or personal watercraft, but it should be,” says Rick Stern, boat product manager at Progressive Insurance. “No matter the size or value of your boat, it’s important to be covered. Accidents happen, and when they do, our customers are glad that they had insurance.” Whether or not they’re aware, boaters who remain uninsured are choosing to pay for any damage or injuries related to their boat and passengers out-of-pocket. Sometimes those who opt to not have insurance have a relatively inexpensive watercraft and may figure they’ll take the financial hit if their watercraft sinks or is stolen. No big deal, right? But, say their 16-footer sinks at someone’s dock; it can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars to refloat and remove it. Or if your boat breaks loose from its dock and drifts into your neighbor’s wakeboat? The cost to repair your neighbor’s boat might run into the thousands of dollars, and you may be personally liable for that cost if you don’t have insurance. Another factor to consider is personal injury liability. Boat liability insurance means you’re protected from accidents that
injure someone on your boat or another boat. Without insurance, these situations may put the boater and their loved ones at financial risk. If your boat is struck by an uninsured watercraft, injuring you or your passengers, all parties may be on their own and accountable for medical costs unless you have a boat insurance policy with Uninsured Boater coverage. Uninsured Boater coverage is designed to cover injuries caused to you and your passengers by an uninsured boater. These unexpected scenarios are seen far too often. By purchasing a boat insurance policy that includes Liability and Uninsured Boater coverage, you’re protected from the financial burdens of these incidents. The cost? Coverage at Progressive can be had for as little as $100 per year! Progressive Insurance Insures more than 1 million watercraft. To learn more about Progressive’s Boat Insurance, visit progressive.com/boat or call 855-347-3939.
PROGRESSIVE BOAT INSURANCE progressive.com/boat | 855-347-3939
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SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION
Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht
LIKE ITS NAME, the 5400 SY Platinum Edition has all the precious “mettle” an owner could wish for — from stunning exterior looks and luxe interior finishes to the three magnificent staterooms, two designer bathrooms and breathtaking 34-knot performance. When launched to an expectant market, the 5400 Sport Yacht won immediate acclaim as an exciting single-level entertainer with intelligent and progressive design wedded to keel-to-wheel integration of its Volvo IPS power plants. Sleek lines, raked entry and a superyacht-like winged radar arch infuse the vessel with a sporting pedigree, attesting
to a level of driving pleasure and refinement befitting its Platinum status. Standard power is a pair of Volvo Penta IPS 950 (725-hp) diesels that deliver silky mid-range acceleration and a top speed of 34 knots. Accommodation comprises either a three-cabin and twobathroom layout or an optional two-cabin layout with lower lounge. Owners enjoy a full-beam stateroom with exceptional headroom and airiness surrounding a king-size bed. Hull windows and opening portlights add to the sense of connectivity with the outdoor elements.
RIVIERA rivieraaustralia.com
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SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION
Need better seals for your boat?
STEELE RUBBER PRODUCTS has been manufacturing quality seals and weatherstripping for more than 50 years. We offer easy to install replacement seals for windows, cabin doors, compartments, rub-rails and hatches of all shapes and sizes. Crafted from marine-grade EPDM rubber, Steele Rubber Products seals are designed for increased durability and harsh weather resistance. Newer profile designs along with custom and duplication services are now available to help you achieve the best result. All of our products are backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Protect your investment — order today!
STEELE RUBBER PRODUCTS marine@steelerubber.com | 800-247-4604 marine.steelerubber.com
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SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION
BUYER’S GUIDE 2020 Volvo Penta Easy Connect
PUT YOUR BOAT in the palm of your hand. Volvo Penta’s new Easy Connect mobile app gives you easy visibility into your boat’s engines with a swipe of your fingertip — right on your own smartphone or tablet. It can be used underway to view engine performance data, fuel tank levels, battery status, alarms, routes and more. Whether on your boat or even at home, Easy Connect also allows you to revisit past voyages and share your routes with family and friends. It even keeps the email of your local Volvo Penta dealer stored for quick service and support. Easy Connect is compatible with a wide range of Volvo Penta engines from the year 2003 and later. Just visit your dealer to learn more about installing the interface, and download the free app online.
VOLVO PENTA volvopenta.us
LAKELANDBOATING.COM IS GETTING A MAKEOVER! OUR NEW WEBSITE IS COMING TO A SCREEN NEAR YOU JANUARY 2020. YOU’LL SOON HAVE A NEW WAY TO EXPERIENCE LAKELANDBOATING.COM! OUR REDESIGNED, RESPONSIVE WEBSITE WILL FEATURE MORE BOATING NEWS, EASY-TO-NAVIGATE LAYOUT AND BIGGER PHOTOS OF BEAUTIFUL GREAT LAKES DESTINATIONS!
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SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION
ValvTect XP+ Gasoline Treatment AS YOU PREPARE for the winter months, make sure your gasoline
is well protected with ValvTect X-Tended Protection+ Gasoline Treatment (XP+). It helps keep gasoline in prime condition until spring and beyond. Whether your gasoline contains ethanol (E10) or not, is used every day, or is in storage for a year or longer, XP+ ensures your engine is ready to start.
XP+ contains ValvTect’s stabilizer, with proprietary corrosion inhibitor, water dispersant to remove controlled amounts of water, and a combination of specially developed gasoline detergents to help clean up carbon deposits and prevent octane loss. For additional information, call 800728-8258 or email valvtect@valvtect.com. VALVTECT valvtect.com
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SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION
Stingray 231DC
WANT AN EXCITING DAY on the water? How about some fishing or wakeboarding? Or are you just looking to take the family out for a day of excitement on the water? Stingray's new 231DC can do it all! This spacious dual console combines comfort and versatility while still holding an affordable price point. The dual swim decks and walk-through transom allow for ease of boarding, as well as watersports and line handling. With two options for towing (wakeboard tower or hideaway ski pole) to optional rod holders and livewell this boat combines a little bit of everything. With its capacity of 12 people, it allows you the option to invite the entire family. The second generation Z-plane hull maintains the legendary Stingray ride, fuel economy and sports car-like handling. Stingray Boats has been producing exceptional sterndrive boats since 1979. Feeding off the need of the market, Stingray started building outboard-powered boats in 2011 and hasn’t looked back since. The 231DC exudes the excellence of Stingray quality and innovation and loyalty to its customers growing needs. Visit your local dealer today to check out the new 231DC, as well as the rest of the Stingray lineup.
DEALERS CenterPointe Yacht Service centerpointeservice.com Grand Valley Marine grandvalleymarine.com Marine Center of Indiana marinecenterusa.com Munson Marine munsonmarine.com Wonderland Marine West wonderlandmarinewest.com STINGRAY BOATS stingrayboats.com | info@stingrayboats.com
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Tiara Sport 43 LS
THE THIRD MODEL in the Tiara Sport LS series, the 43 LS, combines the aesthetics of sport styling with luxurious amenities and details synonymous with the Tiara Sport brand. Guests can choose from multiple social zones for relaxation and leisure. Forward, the bow features wraparound seating with a chaise lounge. The helm seats four comfortably, with standing room and a leaning bolster just aft, providing a secure zone for more guests while underway. A side boarding door located portside presents access to your favorite water activities. The innovative aft U-lounge rotates 180 degrees, allowing guests to further enjoy the swim platform and beautiful views. Entertain everyone aboard from the galley, which is well-equipped with a sink, refrigerator and large countertop. Below deck, comfortable accommodations for four await. The sleek styling of the 43 LS is best complemented by
power and performance. Yamaha power combined with glass cockpit-integrated electronics, including Garmin marine navigation systems, provide comfort and control at the helm. Optional Yamaha helm master joystick steering offers an additional level of command at the dock or underway. A fuel capacity of 400 gallons combined with a top speed over 50 mph gets you to your favorite port of call fast, giving you more time to enjoy with family and friends. Tiara Sport is a subsidiary of S2 Yachts, Inc., one of the oldest privately held boat manufacturers in the United States. Headquartered in Holland, Michigan, Tiara Sport manufactures sport yachts with outboard power from 34 to 43 feet. S2 Yachts, Inc. also manufacturers Tiara Yachts, which makes inboard-powered yachts ranging from 39 to 53 feet. The Tiara Yachts line comprises the Open Series, Flybridge and Coupe models.
TIARA SPORT tiarasport.com
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World Cat 280DC-X
WORLD CAT’S 280DC-X dual console catamaran boasts an overall length of 27 feet, 6 inches, and a beam of 9 feet, 2 inches, offering boaters a stable, spacious hull that provides on-the-water fun. “Catamarans have historically been known for superior comfort, safety and soft ride in sea conditions,” says World Cat CEO Andrew Brown. “Today’s customers demand this security, comfort and amenities, but are also looking for striking aesthetics and attention to detail that raise the bar on quality. World Cat delivers this with the new “X” series via its unique tumblehome transom, lower sheerline, shearline, polished stainless fittings and total attention to detail. And on this model, one of the aesthetically aesthetically-pleasing pleasing features features is is the the frameless frameless glass glass windshield we’ve integrated into the model.” The 280DC-X console is ergonomically designed and when completed with the factory-installed factory installed Garmin Garminpackage packagemounted mountedin in an acrylic dash, it provides the look and feel of a luxury automobile. The head has impressive standing headroom, and runs deeper than most heads in a boat this size due to the catamaran design. It has a Corian counter, mirror, storage area, freshwater system, and marine head with 10-gallon holding tank and overboard discharge.
Additional standard features include aggressive bow styling with integrated LED docking lights; deluxe bow seating for six adults; a massive starboard storage area with easy access; glasslined interior; LED lighting; ample room for cleaning supplies and water toys; and an insulated 180-quart port storage compartment with overboard drain; and more. The cockpit showcases a versatile double-wide seat that converts from a front- to rear-facing arrangement via an easily operated foot pedal, as well as a spacious fishing area with 360-degree cockpit bolsters. A walk-through transom with latched door provides safe, easy access to the On-Ramp swim platform/ladder. Available options include five powder-coated rocket launchers mounted on the hardtop; Sea-Dek accent package; Taco Marine Grand Slam 380 top mount 18-foot telescoping outriggers; 1300 watt cockpit grill with inverter; SureShade mechanical cockpit awning; retractable, heavy-duty transom ski pylon; bow filler cushion and bow table; stereo upgrade package; and Optimus electronic steering system or Optimus 360 system with electronic steering, SeaStation and joystick control.
WORLD CAT worldcat.com
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Cruising The Otterbine family modified their newest center console and the only Grady-White Canyon 456
currently on the Great Lakes into their very own “Great Lakes RV.”
Instead of cruising America’s roadways, however, the family plies the Great Lakes to top destinations, including the North Channel. STORY AND PHOTOS BY CHRIS OTTERBINE
T
he Great Lakes are blessed with an abundance of cruising locations, and whenever boaters get together, you can count on listening to stories of everyone’s favorite port. Another “favorite” boaters will talk with you about is their boat. It doesn’t seem to matter if they cruise on a sailboat, on a powerboat, or if they trailer to a location and day cruise — the boat is a member of the family. Throughout more than 50 years of boating, my husband, Russ, and I have been blessed to have had 15 such “members” of our family. Each had its own name and its own purpose for that time in our lives, such as an offshore when the noise didn’t bother us, or a cabin cruiser when we had kids and needed more room. We even picked a smaller outboard, a Grady-White 330, to complete the Great Loop in 2007. Our current boat is the new Grady-White Canyon 456. We have hull No. 8 and, currently, it’s the first and only 456 on the Great Lakes. A lot of thought went into getting a center console boat. We wanted entertaining space, fore and aft. We wanted shade, fore and aft. We wanted a cabin with ample room and storage so we could spend several weeks aboard. Perhaps the most important reason for us to get a center console was safety on deck. I’m sure everyone knows what it’s like to pull into dock and find that the stainless rail isn’t going to keep you from flipping into the drink if you roll. This wasn’t so much of an issue when we were younger, but at 71 and 79, things change, like balance. The center console boat will allow us to keep boating for — knock on teak — many more years.
Finding the perfect ”Great Lakes RV “
(Top) Russ and Chris are dwarfed by the 456 hull. (Bottom) End of the Line VI in Sommerset Marina.
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We began the search for a center console-style boat in 2018 at the Miami International Boat Show. After all, it’s all there. Our dock neighbors and fellow cruisers had everything planned out for us. We climbed on, off and through more center consoles than I could have imagined existed. We definitely had some favorites, but none had all the features we thought we needed. Although the Grady-White 456 was at that show, we missed it. It wasn’t until we were back home in Oldsmar, Florida, that we began to see the advertising. She was a massive boat, 48 feet in length with the engines and a hefty 14-foot beam. Since we had
in a Great Lakes RV owned Gradys before, we went to see Dave Bair at Quality Boats in Clearwater, who handled Grady-White products. We would soon adopt End of the Line VI and begin an adventure that would last from February 2018 to delivery in April 2019. Grady’s hull No. 1, The Grady Lady, was making the rounds of all the boat shows up and down the Atlantic. The Grady Lady was the only 456 available to show, as full production wouldn’t begin until fall 2018 on the next hull numbers. This meant our hull No. 8 wouldn’t finish production until April 2019, which suited us well. We knew we were taking the boat to Michigan for the summer and that slot still gave us plenty of time to meet our schedule. Grady had touted this boat as a saltwater fishing machine. We have saltwater fished in Florida and were no longer interested using our new Grady in that fashion. Three hours of cleaning fish and salt from every nook and cranny had lost its appeal. But the boat was perfect for what did appeal to us — summer boating on the fresh water of the Great Lakes. Combined with our experience, what we want from cruising and the willingness of Grady-White to work with our ideas, we now have what I like to call our “Great Lakes RV.”
(Top) Rafting off with Mental Floss and Burning Daylight in the picture-perfect Benjamins. (Above) Lunch on Beaverstone Bay with Tim and Lisa Thomas and Kem and Mary Hawkins. (Left) Grady reinforced the lid to the Seakeeper to allow for a table and bike rack.
Time to customize
One of the first things Grady-White did for us was to reinforce the access lid to the Seakeeper. On its company boat, this held the leaning post and was only reinforced beneath the deck plate. Knowing we were going to remove the post and add a table and a bike rack in this location, they reinforced the entire lid. This now has become standard on all 456s. Grady also removed the rod holders from the shower area, which was a clever idea, just not for us. The cubbies beside the bed were very generous, especially after we had Grady delete the two sets of rod storage racks. We also opted out of the outriggers. The final change we made was to add a second deck refrigerator. LAKELANDBOATING.COM
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(Right) The ebikes ride safe and dry. (Below top) Afternoon naps in the shade are an onboard luxury. (Below middle) Boating with friends with the same hobbies is special. (Bottom) Relaxing at DeTour Village with our End of the Line cups, a gift from Lisa.
On the port side of the boat, there were two sets of drawers. With abundant storage already on deck, we replaced one set with the refrigerator. They told us at Grady they had always planned to offer this substitution but never figured it would happen as soon as hull No. 8. The boat finally made it to Michigan on April 15, 2019. Our first cruise was planned for the Bike Fest on Beaver Island in mid-June, followed by Suttons Bay for the Fourth of July, and the North Channel in late July. Final modifications were done by Mobile Marine in East Jordan, Michigan. We had a Mediterranean sunshade installed up front, and we added a teak table using a deck plate that would accommodate both the table and a modified bike rack. Finally, after 15 months of planning and anticipation, End of the Line VI slid into the rather coolish waters of Lake Charlevoix.
Maiden voyage
We anticipated issues with a new boat, but the shakedown cruise to the Bike Fest went off without a hitch. I had more issues with my ebike. Our next trip was to Suttons Bay, where we could ride the trails all the way to Traverse City. This is where having boarding doors on both sides of the boat is a luxury; no longer do we worry about finding a slip with just a starboard or just a port presentation. It was during these two trips that we found an added benefit to the center console: Our boat finally became the place to gather with our boating friends. With shade fore and aft, everyone could enjoy conversation with a drink in hand or an afternoon nap without the sun beating down upon us. Although each weekend trip we took was a rehearsal for our trip through the North Channel, planning had begun during the winter, which is actually the best time to begin planning an extended cruise — reservations are wide open.
The North Channel
We were the smaller of the three boats making the trip from Boyne City, Michigan, to Killarney, Ontario. The other boats were a Sunseeker and a Tiara. Those boats have plenty of storage, of course, but when it came to supplying the ice, it was our huge aft freezer that carried enough for 11 days on the water. Surprisingly, by setting its temperature to 37 degrees Fahrenheit, the ice remained frozen but the pop, water, food and adult beverages did not freeze.
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(Left) Every direction in the Benjamins has a view. (Below top) RV smorgasbord in the North Channel. (Below middle) Tim and Kem enjoy not being captains today. (Bottom) A DVD gives us a unique boating atmosphere on a cool Killarney evening.
Our first night was spent at the DNR marina in DeTour Village. We hadn’t been to DeTour in years and found the marina and town to be welcoming. Since it’s only a four-hour cruise from home, we were in early enough to get lunch and enjoy some shopping and the surrounding area. We also made detailed plans on how to approach our anchorage in the South Benjamin Islands, which included a safety check of all boats. Our “cruising doctor” made sure each of us knew the location of all medical and safety equipment onboard each boat, including AEDs on the other two boats. It was our plan to leave by 7 a.m. in order to arrive at the anchorage just as others were leaving. That plan worked out well. We knew the forecast wind direction and found the perfect spot. Our “maties” took their dinghies off the cradles and we spent time exploring North and South Benjamin Islands. Having an outdoor grill on the Grady was perfect for our grill master, Russ. Hamburgers, hot dogs, brats and shrimp were staples for evening meals, but the specialty was morning pancakes. Upon leaving the anchorage for Little Current, we ran into our only rough water. Winds were from the south, leaving us exposed for about five miles as we ran east, just north of Amedroz and Bedford Islands. Standard on the Grady, our Seakeeper served us well, providing a perfect, knocked down path for our friends to follow. After Little Current, we slipped over to Killarney. Having been there several times, we have begun to use it as a home port and explore further into the North Channel on a day trip basis. Our exploring this year took us into the Killarney Provincial Park and through the Collins Inlet. Instead of taking all three boats, we set out in the Grady. It was the perfect tour vessel. Views were incredible and the other two captains were thrilled to leave the driving to someone else for a change. Our run home was through Yacht Haven on Drummond Island, as it is for most cruisers, which is a great place to ride bikes and golf. After a two-day stay on Mackinac Island for yet more bikes and golf, we headed for home, only two and a half hours away. We will continue to include Killarney and the Mountain Lodge in our future cruising plans. And, when we get together this winter, rumor has it we may venture into planning a Lake Superior cruise. In the meantime, the bikes and the golf clubs come off End of the Line VI and the downriggers go on. With the push of a button on the Yamaha Helm Master, our Great Lakes RV is transformed back into a freshwater fishing machine. Salmon beware. ★
About the author: Russ and Chris Otterbine, both born and raised in Michigan, are now Florida residents. They spend their summers in Boyne City, Michigan. Both have their captain’s licenses and are retired.
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PORT OF CALL
ASHLAND A SMALL TOWN CHARM, BIG TIME FUN.
PHOTO BY EDWARD MONROE
by felicia schneiderhan
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ADVENTURE Apost le I s lan ds
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Ashland Breakwater Lighthouse
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PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
Michigan Isle Beach, Apostle Islands
I
magine a clear, calm day on Lake Superior, the summer sun is high and the scent of lake air mixed with warm pine reaches you at the helm. You weave through the eastern Apostle Islands, making your way through the channel between Madeline Island and the mainland. There, you spot the opening to Chequamegon Bay, one of the sweetest harbors on this big lake. Enter in. At the southern curve, you’ll see the town of Ashland holding court over this beautiful bay. With a population of just under 10,000, Ashland, Wisconsin, is one of the larger metropolises on Lake Superior. It offers visitors plenty of amenities and activities, while still keeping its small-town hospitality. The area is rich with the history of eight Native tribes, European settlers, logging and shipping. It’s home to Northland College, a private liberal arts college with a progressive focus on the environment and sustainability. Here, you’ll find sandy beaches, an expansive park and trail system, and a downtown shopping area. At the intersection of wilderness, art, culture and history, Ashland celebrates and embraces Lake Superior in all aspects and in all seasons. Visiting by boat is an adventure not to be missed.
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Cruise on in
Chequamegon Bay takes its name from the Ojibwe “Sha-ga-waun-il-ong,” which has been translated into a variety of meanings, including “needle,” “lowland,” “long sand bar” and even “where there are large, extended breakers.” All of them seem apt. As you glide into the bay, Long Island sits to the port side, creating a natural breakwater for the bay. Part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Long Island is actually not an island at all (not anymore, anyway) — it’s a peninsula reaching eight miles out into the big lake, secluding and protecting the bay from the rough open water. Two lighthouses reach up from Long Island: The Chequamegon Point Lighthouse and the LaPoint Lighthouse. At one time, both lighthouses were maintained by one keeper, who went back and forth via bicycle over a boardwalk about a mile long. There’s yet another lighthouse to greet you as you float into town. The Ashland Breakwater Lighthouse beacons from a breakwater built between Long Island and the shipping docks. It became the ninth lighthouse included in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in 2014. Completed
PHOTO BY E DWA RD M ON ROE
Ashland
HOTEL PHOTO BY EDWARD MONROE; BAY DAYS FEST PHOTO COURTESY OF ASHLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Hotel Chequamegon
Ashland Bay Days Festival
in 1893, this 1.5-mile-long breakwater protected ships from nor’easters at a time when Ashland’s economy thrived on exporting iron ore, lumber and brownstone. The historic docks and piers pass by as you head for the Ashland Marina at the center of Ashland’s long lakefront. Located beside the regal, historic Hotel Chequamegon, this full-service marina offers 121 slips, fuel and pumpout, restrooms with showers, water and electricity, and a marina office with a ship’s store. From the marina, you can look across the bay to the small town of Washburn; every winter, the annual Book Across the Bay event brings out the snowshoers and cross-country skiers for a candlelit 10K trek across the frozen bay from Ashland to Washburn. The towns around the bay celebrate winter in all its glory, taking advantage of the natural beauty of abundant ice and snow. And as much as Ashland loves its winter activities, it’s equally excited about summertime.
Events galore
Festivals and events all season laud the long days and plentiful recreation of this serene lakefront town. In June, cyclists explore a variety of routes in the annual
Superior Vistas Bike Tour, with distances ranging from a kind 13-mile loop to the bragging rights of 100 miles. With strong support and rest stations along the way, the ride emphasizes having a good time — its motto is “Fun, Friends and Food!” Riders are encouraged to bring along their swimsuits for a lakefront dip and enjoy the 20 miles of smooth blacktop through the Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest. Ashland goes all-out for an old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration, with a parade down Main Street, an outdoor band concert in the band shell next to the marina, events like the “fire run” and fireworks over Chequamegon Bay. Later in July, the annual Ashland Bay Days Festival revels in events like Battle of the Bands, a pie-eating contest, fun runs, a triathlon, a strongman competition and cardboard boat races. Live music, arts and crafts, food vendors and other activities fill this three-day hometown event. All summer long, you can hear world-class music at the renowned Big Top Chautauqua, a one-of-a-kind venue (literally underneath a big top) in nearby Bayfield that brings first-rate musicians every year. The house LAKELANDBOATING.COM
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Ashland Area Farmers Market
Soo Line Ore Dock
band, the Blue Canvas Orchestra, is amazing. A free shuttle will even pick you up and drop you off at Hotel Chequamegon, a few steps from your boat in the marina.
Trail rides
One of the best parts of visiting Ashland by boat is that so much of the town is within walking distance of the marina. This shouldn’t be surprising in a town that heralds its trails. You may want to bring your bicycles along for this voyage and ride the Tri-County Corridor Trail, an abandoned rail track bed that runs 60 miles between Ashland and the city of Superior. This multi-use gravel trail leads cyclists, walkers and runners through dense national forest and the gorgeous Amnicon Falls State Park; along the way, they enjoy trail-side restaurants and amenities. In town, the Ashland Lakefront Trail will take you from one end of the city to the other, and yet another recreational trail encircles the entire town. Next to the marina you’ll find Memorial Park, overlooking the historic Soo Line Ore Dock. It features the small-town band shell where you can enjoy the Fourth of July and other open-air concerts, and you can also view
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artifacts from Ashland’s maritime and logging history. Heading east on Ashland’s Lakefront Trail, you’ll come to Bayview Park. Here you’ll find a swimming beach, bathrooms, fishing pier, picnic area and playground. On the other end of the lakefront, Maslowski Beach is popular for its sandy beach, playground, pavilion and artesian well. Across the highway from Maslowski Beach, you’ll find Prentice Park, the largest of Ashland’s 12 parks at about 100 acres. It’s a natural habitat for migrating birds, a nesting ground for mute swans, with hiking trails, artesian wells, a picnic area and a playground.
We’re going downtown
Downtown — just a few blocks from the marina — you’ll find plenty of provisions. The Ashland Area Farmers Market is held every Saturday from mid-June through mid-October and features live music and kids’ activities, along with fresh, locally grown produce, fruit, maple syrup, flowers, plants and homemade items. If you miss the farmers market, you can stop by the Whole Foods Co-op for local and organic foods. Find those necessary items at the hardware store, along with other unique local shops.
PHOTO BY RA N DE N P E DE RS ON ORE DOCK PHOTO BY EDWARD MONROE; FARMERS MARKET COURTESY THEIR FACEBOOK PAGE
Amnicon Falls State Park
PHOTO BY JOS HUA M AY E R POWWOW PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKE SUPERIOR CHIPPEWA FACEBOOK PAGE; MURAL PHOTO BY BOBBY LIGHT PH OTO COU RTESY OF
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
MURAL WALK Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Pow Pow
While you’re downtown, visit the Ashland Historical Society Museum for its meticulous display of Chequamegon Bay history. Eight Indian nations are known to have lived in the area. The Ojibwe are particularly influential, having stayed on Chequamegon Point for almost a hundred years before going to Madeline Island and then to the Sault region. (For a captivating read on the Ojibwe history and culture of the area, check out Thomas Peacock’s novel “Beginnings: The Homeward Journey of Donovan Manypenny.”) Today, the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Tribe has its reservation nearby. European explorers, missionaries and fur traders came next, followed by railroaders, shippers and loggers. More regional and natural history can be found just outside town on Highway 2, where the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center presents a range of exhibits and interpretative nature trails. The center is free, though sponsored programs may charge a fee. Open seven days a week, the center offers events and talks throughout the season. The main exhibit hall features an interactive journey through the area’s past, from the ice age until
As the “Historic Mural Capital of Wisconsin,” Ashland displays hometown pride in its rich history with 20 vibrant historic, public murals throughout the town. A map guides you through a walking tour of most of the murals, which each highlight an important aspect of the city’s colorful past. Subjects range from the Native tribes, lumberjacks now. Voyageurs sing while paddling their 35-foot and military veterans birch bark canoe. Traders barter at an 18th century fur to railroads, storefronts trade post. Rock explodes in a deep-shaft iron mine. and, of course, a Upstairs, the rotating exhibits showcase science, art and massive ore dock.
history. Head outside to explore the center’s 180 acres. Hike along the interpretative nature trails. In winter, the center even provides snowshoes. A ¾-mile-long boardwalk trail weaves through black ash swamp, sedge meadow, and a mature cedar and tamarack swamp. The Aldo Leopold trail (named for the celebrated American conservationist) wanders through the forest and recently restored wetlands and takes you to a viewing platform overlooking the North Fork of Fish Creek. In the family discovery area, kids can crawl inside a beaver lodge, catch dragonflies and butterflies, hunt for animal tracks, and build with wood and sand.
ASHLANDWIHISTORY.COM/ MURAL-WALK.HTML
Wilderness adventure
If your wilderness itch needs more scratching, the nearby Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest embraces more than 1.5 million acres of Wisconsin Northwoods. Among its highlights, you can climb LAKELANDBOATING.COM
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Morgan Falls
Lucerne shipwreck
WhistleStop Marathon
January • Northwoods Harness Club’s Sleigh & Cutter Rally
August • Ashland Downtown Days • Ashland County Fair
February • Book Across the Bay
September • Mural Fest and Car Show in Downtown Ashland • Red Clay Classic
May • Chequamegon Bay Birding & Nature Festival • House to House Garage Sale June • Apostle Islands Inline Marathon • Superior Vistas Bike Tour
November • Chick-uamegon 5K and 10K Walk/Run • Big Water Film Festival
July • Fourth of July Parade & Celebrations • Ashland Bay Days Festival • Bay Days 1-Mile, 5K & 10K Fun Run
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October • Memorial Medical Center WhistleStop Marathon/HalfMarathon • Cruisin’ the Corridor 5K/10K • Blues & Brews Fest
December • Annual Garland City of the North Christmas Parade
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to the top of the Mountain Fire Lookout Tower, built in 1935 by the U.S. Forest Service and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Explore Cathedral Pines, 40 acres of rare red and white pine and hemlock that survived the early 20th century lumberjacks. If waterfalls are your passion, an accessible ¾-mile-long boardwalk trail leads to the 70-foot-tall Morgan Falls. A longer, more rugged two-mile trail takes you atop, with incredible views of Chequamegon Bay and the Apostle Islands. From that overlook, you may consider that the gorgeous Apostle Islands are also the final resting place of many ships from the area’s vast shipping past. New wrecks are still being discovered; in 2016, the 119-year-old “spectacularly intact” Antelope was found in 300 feet of water. Particularly important to Ashland is the three-masted schooner Lucerne, which rests in only 24 feet of water on the northeast side of Long Island. When she sank in November 1886, the Lucerne was considered one of the sturdiest vessels on the Great Lakes. On that cold night in Ashland, she was loaded with 1,256 tons of iron ore bound for Cleveland; she never made it past the
RACE PHOTO BY EDWARD MONROE; SHIPWRECK PHOTO COURTESY WISCONSINSHIPWRECKS.ORG
EVENTS
BOATHOUSE AND MARINA PHOTOS BY EDWARD MONROE
PHOTO BY EDWARD MON ROE
Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center
RESOURCES
Ashland Marina Boathouses on Chequamegon Bay
• Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce
PH OTO COU RTESY OF UP NORTH GU IDE SERVICE
VISITASHLAND.COM
Apostles. Today, the Lucerne is a popular dive site, marked every year by a buoy. The hull remains incredibly intact, clearly visible from the lake’s surface. Divers can view the bow and starboard midships, the centerboard trunk, capstan, windless, Samson post and railings — all surrounded by the cargo of iron ore. And while you’re out there, take advantage of the spectacular fishing of the Apostles. From near-shore trolling for salmon and trout to casting for walleyes, the big lake fishing opportunities are not to be missed. Chequamegon Bay has been called one of the top 10 smallmouth fishing holes on the entire planet; here you’ll find northern pike, whitefish, perch, burbot, trout, herring and, of course, big lake sturgeon. Charter services like the Up North Guide Service, led by USCG Captain Nate Baron, can take you to find some major musky. Or a multi-species charter trip will help you catch a variety of fish that this world-class fishing terrain offers. Whether you’re spending your Ashland adventure on water or on land (and probably a little of both), friendliness prevails. The community draws us in and keeps us coming back for more. ★
715-682-2500
• The Hotel Chequamegon BESTWESTERN.COM
715-682-9095 • Up North Guide Service
• Ashland Historical Society Museum
UPNORTHGUIDESERVICE.NET
608-963-2758
ASHLANDWIHISTORY.COM
715-682-4911 • Ashland Marina
Up North Guide Service
CI. ASHLAND.WI.US/LIST/12
715-682-7049 • Big Top Chautauqua BIGTOP.ORG
715-373-5552 • Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center NGLVC.ORG
715-685-9983
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LAKESHORE LIFE BY KAT E B U S H
Cedarville, MI
MORE INFORMATION
Custom home in the Les Cheneaux Islands.
Address 2577 S Coryell Island Cedarville, MI 49719 Specs
O
Bedrooms: 4 Baths: 3 full, 1 half Square Footage: 2,487 Acreage: 2.56 Shoreline: 354 feet Price: $695,000 Contact Diane Patrick Coldwell Banker 906-484-5555 CBGREATLAKES.COM/ DIANE .PATRICK
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ne of Michigan’s U.P. gems is found in the picturesque cruising grounds of the Les Cheneaux Islands. Among these 36 islands, Coryell Island stands as a beacon over Lake Huron, where this 2.56-acre waterfront property on the island’s east coast has front-row seats to spectacular sunrises. “This house is special because of its uniqueness, real personalization and attention to detail,” says realtor Diane Patrick. “The owner made this very customized for our area.” Starting down at the deepwater dock and crystal clear Lake Huron water, homeowners will enjoy sunbathing on the 354-foot-long sandy beach, or starting the engines on one of the two boats included in the sale (a 19-foot Boston Whaler Outrage and a Zodiac) and taking off to one of the many cruising areas surrounding the island. “This area has protected waterways,” Patrick says, “so even though you’re on Lake Huron, you can get around in a smaller boat, and you can also travel to Lake Michigan and Lake Superior within a couple hours. We have proximity to waters and access to great cruising areas.” Climb the steps leading to the lakefront patio, where |
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guests will love to gather, and enter the home’s great room wrapped in cedar. From here, you can see clearly into the fully renovated hickory kitchen and dining room, and up to a lofted bedroom. Solid maple floors line the entire main floor. Owners are treated to a private ensuite, accessed by a separate flight of stairs, where you can enjoy lake views from a Juliet balcony or relax in a private sitting room. Allow your creativity to flow in the photography darkroom and lower level workshop, which comes equipped with all the tools you’d ever need. The home comes completely turn-key with furnishings, a custom N.A. Noel painting, an electric golf cart and more. Nautical details abound, from beautiful stained-glass windows, a nautical rope banister, a compass rose wooden inlay in the dining table (which the current homeowner built himself), a sailboat mural on the kitchen island and more! Keep your eyes peeled for these thoughtful touches throughout. “The beauty of area, the privacy and beautiful views, and the immediate access to Lake Huron cruising destinations are sure to impress,” Patrick says. ★
Lakeshore Life
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BOAT BIZ BY A MA N DA M C D O N A LD
MORE INFORMATION St. Clair Shores 568-772-1550 24530 Jefferson Ave. St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 Algonac 810-794-5517 5793 Pointe Tremble Rd. Algonac, MI 48001 Oakland County 248-371-0400 580 E Walton Blvd. Pontiac, MI 48340 COLONYMARINE .COM
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Colony Marine Southeast Michigan’s oldest and biggest boat dealer.
W
hen you buy a boat from Colony Marine in southeast Michigan, expect to get an invite to one of several customer events. “I went on those [events] back in the day,” says Katie Lauzon, the dealership’s communications and media manager. “My parents bought a boat from Pete Beauregard Jr. (the current owner) more than 20 years ago.” The family style atmosphere started in 1958 when Pete Beauregard Sr. purchased an old Chris-Craft dealership in Algonac and established Colony Marine (the original showroom is pictured lower left). Since then, the company has added locations in St. Clair Shores and Pontiac, and Beauregard Sr. has passed the ownership baton to his son, Pete Jr. Colony Marine has more than 250,000 square feet of heated winter storage in its St. Clair Shores location, and all three locations offer full-service repairs and heated showrooms. Colony Marine has an inventory of about $10 million, including brands such as Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, Crest Pontoons, Chris-Craft, and now Prestige and Maritimo Yachts. Colony Marine picked up Prestige and Maritimo recently, establishing |
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
itself as one of the only dealers in the Great Lakes region to offer these French and Australian yachts. Though Colony Marine began as a Chris-Craft dealer, it also has a deep history of Sea Ray sales, having been a dealer for more than 60 years. “That’s been our bread and butter over the years,” Lauzon says. In addition to selling the boating lifestyle, Colony also offers plenty of family fun events throughout the year. “We work really hard to make it feel like a family,” Lauzon says. “That sounds cliché but we plan trips with customers every summer. Generations have gone to those over the years.” Some of those events include the annual Rendezvous trips (pictured lower right), which she attended as a child, as well as its VIP in-house boat show every January and Corn Roast held right after Labor Day. Lauzon says that the Corn Roast was a hit this year, and she served countless ears of corn to attendees. It’s easy to get invited. All you have to do is fall in love with one of Colony Marine’s models, like the new Maritimo X50 or Prestige 420S (pictured lower middle), and you’re in — just like the Lauzon family 20 years ago. H
LARGE SELECTION OF NEW, USED & BROKERAGE BOATS | SALES, SERVICE, PARTS, STORAGE AND DOCKAGE
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NEW BOATS IN STOCK AND ON ORDER
Belize 66 Day Bridge
Belize 66 Sedan
Monte Carlo Yachts 65
Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht
Sabre 48 Salon Express
Sabre 45 Salon Express
Back Cove 41
Back Cove 37
Back Cove 340
Edgewater 280 CC
Edgewater 262 CX
Edgewater 248 CX
Edgewater 230 CX
Edgewater 230 CC
Edgewater 170 CC
Edgewater 158 CC
TO SEE OU R COM PLETE SELECTION OF PRE- OWN ED BOATS
FEATURED LISTINGS 66 66 65 58 56 55 54 54 53 52 50 46 45 45 45 44 43 42 42 42 38 38 38 38 37 37 37 35 35 35 35 35
2020 2019 2019 1988 1985 2005 2011 2020 1980 2007 2003 2006 2020 2007 1988 2013 2006 2007 1996 1984 2008 2000 1993 1991 2015 1997 1996 2003 2009 2006 2005 2001
Belize 66 Daybridge ......................................................... Call Belize 66 Sedan ................................................................. Call Monte Carlo Yachts 65 Motor Yacht ......................... Call Vantare 58 Flush Deck Motor Yacht.............$225,000 Hatteras 56 Motor Yacht................................... $299,000 Neptunus 55 Cabrio........................................... $399,000 Sea Ray Sundancer 540................................... $699,896 Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht................................................ Call Hatteras 53 Motor Yacht....................................$249,500 Cruisers Yachts 520 Express ............................$399,897 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer....................................$339,997 Cruisers Yachts 460 Express............................$225,000 Sabre 45 Salon Express .................................................. Call Ocean Alexander 45 Sedan............................ $425,000 Viking 45 Convertible..........................................$159,000 Beneteau Gran Turismo 44............................. $369,896 Chris-Craft Roamer Heritage........................... $288,998 Cruisers Yachts 420 Express............................$225,000 Ocean Alexander 423 Classicco ....................$279,500 Bertram 42 Motor Yacht....................................$109,000 Four Winns 378 Vista ..........................................$184,999 Sea Ray 380 Sundancer....................................$104,900 Sea Ray 380 Sun Sport........................................ $38,900 Fountain 38 Sport Cruiser................................... $34,999 Formula 310 SS.................................................................. Call Bayliner 3788 Motoryacht ...................................$67,900 Sea Ray 37 Sundancer......................................... $68,998 Carver 356 Motor Yacht.....................................$109,998 Four Winns 358 Vista ..........................................$119,900 Regal 3560 Commodore..................................$119,000 Regal 3560 Commodore.....................................$94,897 Carver 356 Motor Yacht....................................... $89,899
DOOR COUNTY YACHTING CENTER, WI 920-743-6526
35 34 34 34 33 33 32 31 31 31 30 30 29 29 28 28 26 26 24 24 24 22 22 22 21 21 21 21 20 17 15 14
1999 2020 2006 1984 2000 1999 1989 2000 1994 1990 1999 1979 2006 2008 2004 2019 2008 2020 2016 2007 2003 2003 1996 1989 2001 2001 2016 2019 2016 2019 2019 2011
Carver 350 Mariner................................................ $69,900 Back Cove 34O................................................................... Call Sea Ray 340 Sundancer....................................$124,900 Tollycraft 34 Tri Cabin ............................................ $24,900 Cruisers 3375 ........................................................... $64,998 Cruisers 3375 ........................................................... $29,999 Carver 32 Convertible............................................$19,900 Sea Ray 310 Sundancer....................................... $47,900 Spirit Equalizer Spirit 31 ....................................... $44,900 Sea Ray 310...............................................................$27,000 Mainship Pilot 30 .................................................... $59,900 J Boats J30 .................................................................... $9,900 Four Winns 290 Horizon ...................................... $47,900 Chaparral 290 Signiture ....................................... $69,999 Cobalt 282 ................................................................. $48,999 Edgewater 280CC.............................................................. Call Sea Ray 260 Sundancer...................................... $54,999 Edgewater 262 CX............................................................. Call Yamaha Boats 242X E-Series............................ $69,900 Bayliner Discovery 246......................................... $29,000 Sea Ray 240 Sundeck .......................................... $25,900 Bayliner 2252 Ciera Classic.................................$12,900 Shamrock 220 Stalker........................................... $24,900 Grady-White Seafarer 22 ......................................$19,900 Lund 2150 Baron Magnum Gran Sport IO.....$34,900 Larson 213 O/B........................................................$10,900 Chaparral 21 H2O Sport...................................... $34,899 Recon 2185 DCX.................................................... $59,000 Stabicraft Stabicraft 2050 .................................... $58,000 Edgewater 170CC.............................................................. Call Edgewater 158CS.............................................................. Call Walker Bay 14............................................................$19,000
SALES@BAYMARINE.NET WWW.BAYMARINE.NET
CHICAGO YACHTING CENTER, IL 847-336-2628
F I V E L O C AT I O N S
BENETE AU P O W E R BO ATS NEW MODEL BLUE: C100 M70
2019 SWIFT TRAWLER 35
2019 SWIFT TRAWLER 47
2019 GRAN TURISMO 40
2020 ANTARES 27
2019 ANTARES 23
2019 ANTARES 21
C ARV E R YAC HTS COMING SOON!
2019 C52 COUPE
2019 CARVER C34 COUPE
2020 42 MARQUIS
R E G AL BO ATS ARRIVING SOON!
2019 REGAL 330 OBX
2020 REGAL 38 GRAND COUPE
2019 REGAL 42 GRAND COUPE
CATCH US AT THESE WINTER BOAT SHOWS! _ Chicago Boat Show: January 8-12 _ Milwaukee Boat Show: January 17-19, 22-26 _ Miami Boat Show: February 13-17
CH R I S - C R AF T BO ATS REDUCED PRICE
NEW MODEL
2019 23 LAUNCH
2019 28 GT
2019 30 LAUNCH
NAU TICSTA R BO AT S
2018 NAUTICSTAR 28XS
2018 30 CALYPSO
P URS UI T BO ATS
2018 NAUTICSTAR 2602 LEGACY
2020 PURSUIT S288
2019 PURSUIT S328
P R E - O W N E D BO ATS
2008 CHRIS CRAFT 28 CORSAIR $59,000
2015 CHAPARRAL 330 $189,000
2016 CARVER C43 $489,000
1988 CARVER 36 MARINER $28,500
BROK E R AG E
2007 65 MARQUIS $1,150,000
1987 GRAND BANKS 46 CLASSIC $189,000
2019 BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 50 $935,000
2015 REGAL 53 SPORT COUPE $779,000
2014 TRUE NORTH 38 $330,000
2012 PRESTIGE 440S $339,998
1997 VIKING 58 CONVERTIBLE $299,999
2011 CATALINA 445 $210,000
STURGEON BAY: South First Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI, (920) 746-1912 • Martin Kelsey: (920) 559-0366, Martin@centerpointesales.com • Terry Godres: (920) 559-0730, Terry@centerpointesales.com • Tony Peot: (920) 493-4747, Tony@centerpointesales.com • MILWAUKEE: 700 S. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI, (888) 992-2487 • John Niemann: (262) 309-9579, John@centerpointesales.com • Tyler Wilkins: (414) 248-9668, Tyler@centerpointesales.com • KENOSHA: 21-56th Street, Kenosha, WI, (888) 992-2487 • Mike Montilino: (612) 419-3772, Mike@centerpointesales.com • WEST MICHIGAN: 430 W. 23rd St, Holland, MI • Brandon Ricci: (616) 405-1715, Brandon@centerpointesales.com
WWW.CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM OR CALL (888) 9-YACHTS
PLAN AHEAD!
Visit us at these Boat Shows:
Chicago Boat, RV & Strictly Sail Show: January 8-12 @ McCormick Place Ultimate Fishing Show Detroit: January 9-12 @ Suburban Collection Showplace
NEW BOATS IN STOCK AND AVAILABLE FOR DELIVERY! Clearance and special end-of-season savings on 2018 & 2019 models!
220 MAVERICK
R-27
285 CABIN
Open 5.5
SEA RIB ALUMINUM
33 CC
BROKERAGE BOATS 18’ 22’ 24’ 24’ 25’ 25’ 26’ 27’ 27’ 27’ 27’ 27’ 27’ 27’ 28’ 28’ 28’ 28’
2017 2018 2017 2004 1987 2015 2011 1983 1987 2006 2012 2014 2016 2018 1978 1986 2000 2003
Hewescraft 180 Open Fisherman....... $24,900 Eastern Sisu ..................................... $54,900 Zodiac Medline 740 With Trailer......... $89,900 Campion 602 Sports Utility ................ $20,900 Bayliner 2560..................................... $6,000 Ranger Tugs R25SC ........................ $135,000 MacGregor 26M Powersailer ............. $22,900 Catalina 27......................................... $6,900 Sea Ray 270 Sundancer.................... $12,900 Hunter 27......................................... $29,900 Ranger Tugs R-27 With Trailer ......... $140,000 Ranger Tugs R-27........................... $147,900 Ranger Tugs R-27........................... $134,900 Ranger Tugs R-27 with Trailer...................TBD Bertram 28 Sport Fisherman ............. $24,750 Carver 28 Riviera.............................. $11,500 Cruisers Yachts 2870 Rogue.............. $36,900 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer.................... $45,900
28’ 29’ 29’ 31’ 32’ 33’ 34’ 36’ 36’ 36’ 37’ 38’ 38’ 39’ 40’ 41’ 41’
2015 2008 2001 1988 2011 2017 1983 1992 2006 2010 1999 2013 1969 1988 2001 1987 1989
Cutwater 28 ................................... $160,000 Hacker-Craft 29 Long Deck ............. $169,900 Boston Whaler 26 Conquest .............. $49,900 Island Packet 31............................... $43,900 Legacy 32 MKIII.............................. $194,900 Mag Bay 33 CC & trailer.................. $349,900 Hunter 34......................................... $18,990 Catalina 36....................................... $61,900 Albemarle 3600 Express ................. $249,900 Sabre Spirit .................................... $165,000 Cruisers Yachts 3750 Motor Yacht...... $89,900 Rinker 360 Express Cruiser ............. $148,500 Chris-Craft 38’ Commander .............. $29,500 Hatteras Convertilbe........................ $108,900 Tiara 4000 Express......................... $189,900 Hatteras 41 Convertible................... $134,500 Hans Christian 41T ......................... $179,000
41’ 41’ 42’ 42’ 42’ 42’ 43’ 43’ 44’ 45’ 47’ 50’ 50’ 56’ 58’ 60’ 75’ 80’
2002 2008 1972 1986 1987 2005 1976 1992 1994 1998 2005 1981 1990 1983 1983 1988 2001 2004
Sea Ray 410 Express Cruiser ........... $124,900 Cruisers 415 Motor Yacht................ $249,900 Allied 42 XL...................................... $65,000 Slocum Pilothouse ............................ $98,000 Carver 42 Aft Cabin Motor Yacht ........ $69,900 Beneteau 423................................. $129,000 Hatteras 43 Double Cabin ................. $69,900 Hunter 43 Legend............................. $79,900 Sea Ray 44 Sundancer...................... $64,900 Sea Ray 450 Sundancer.................. $129,900 Beneteau 473................................. $189,900 Gulfstar 50’ Ketch............................. $74,900 Viking 50 Motor Yacht ..................... $199,900 Hatteras 56 Motor Yacht.................. $299,900 Bertram Motor Yacht ....................... $395,000 Hatteras 60 Motor Yacht.................. $299,900 Hatteras 75 Cockpit Motor Yacht... $1,299,900 Hatteras 80 Motor Yacht............... $1,999,000
FIND A COMPLETE LIST OF INVENTORY INCLUDING NEW, USED AND BROKERAGE BOATS AT WWW.REEDYACHTSALES.COM
GRAND HAVEN, MI • Brent Reed 616-402-0180 • Bob Lunt 616-843-1225 LASALLE, MI • Paul Reed 419-304-4405 • Chuck Hutchins 734-497-3721 Matthew Bolt 734-735-1948 • RACINE, WI • Mark Derenne 414-651-3100
www.reedyachtsales.com
Marine Marketplace
ONEKAMA MARINE, INC.
LAKE MICHIGAN YACHT SALES
Onekama, MI • (231) 889-5000 www.onekamamarine.com
Bay Harbor, MI • (231) 439-2675 www.lakemichiganyachtsales.com
NEW & IN STOCK
Riviera 4800 Sport
FEATURED USED BOATS
2015 Riviera 565 SUV $1,199,000
Monterey 258 SS
Wellcraft 262
NEW & IN STOCK
‘69 ‘91 ‘08 ‘67 ‘89 ‘81 ‘99 ‘95 ‘16 ‘86 ‘85 ‘00 ‘84 ‘07
Matthews ................................... $74,500 Sea Ray Sundancer................ $84,350 Fathom 40............................. sale pending Chris Craft ................................... $84,900 Carver Aft Cabin .................... $38,900 Silverton ...................................... $14,900 Regal 322............................... $34,900 Downeaster ......................... $149,900 Hunter Marlow 31 motivated! ... $119,000 Sea Ray Weekender .............. $15,900 Sea Ray Sundancer twin I/Os...... $7,900 Four Winns 268 ......................$24,900 Uniflite Whaleboat...................... $29,000 Chris Craft Barrel Back .......... $25,000
1995 32’ Duffy Downeaster, $149,900
harborviewyachtsales.com
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2020 29’ 290CC Sailfish
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2020 39’ Yellowfin
Zodiac Pro 9 Man, 50HP Mercury, trailer, ski tow, center console .........................................................................................$12,900 Scout 195 Sportfish, 115HP Yamaha 4S, Trailer, Bimini, GPS, Trolling Motor ........................................................................$29,900 Bayliner VR5 Open Bow, 4.3L Merc, Bow & Cockpit, Depth, Trailer .......................................................................................$24,900 South Bay Pontoon, 60HP Mercury, Bimini, Full Cover, Fish Finder ........................................................................................$17,900 Four Winns 230 Horizon, 7.4L Volvo DP, trailer, full canvas.......................................................................................................$21,500 Four Winns Horizon, 5.7L Volvo DP, Full Canvas, Depth, VHF, Trailer ......................................................................................$31,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, 300HP Merc BIII, air, arch, windlass, GPS, clean .................................................................................$47,900 Avalon Tritoon, 150HP Mercury, bimini, full cover, ski tow, docking lights ............................................................................$54,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, 7.4L Merc BIII, Full Canvas, GPS, VHF, Arch ..........................................................................................$23,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-4.3L Merc BIII, Air, Windlass, GPS/Radar, Camper ...........................................................................$69,900 Pursuit Denali, T-4.3L Mercs, arch, windlass, cockpit cover, GPS, trailer .............................................................................$39,900 Chaparral Signature, T-4.3L Mercs, arch, camper top, air/heat, low hours.........................................................................$109,000 Rampage Open, T-350 MAG IB, Arch, Full Electr, Windlass, Air, Bimini .................................................................................$64,900 Boston Whaler Outrage CD, T-275HP Verados, full elect, hardtop, air, windlass ...............................................................$129,000 Monterey expre T-8, 1L Mercs, air/heat, Genset, full canvas, full electr, clean................................................................. $119,900 Carver Aft, T-270HP Crusaders, Full Electr, Air, Windlass, Arch, Enclosure ..........................................................................$34,900 Cruisers Express, T-6.2L Merc IB, Full Electr, Air/Heat, Windlass, Camper, Clean...............................................................$69,900 Rinker Express, T-5.7L BIII, Full Electr, Air/heat, Genset, Windlass Enclosure .....................................................................$42,500 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-8.1L, Full Canvas, Electr, Air, Genset, Windlass, Clean .....................................................................$99,900 Luhrs Convertible, T-7.4L Crusaders, air, Genset, full electr. and rigged for fishing.............................................................$32,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-3208 CATS, new canvas, full elect, air, Genset, clean.......................................................................$67,900 Jefferson Sedan, T-Volvo Diesels, air/heat, Genset, bridge enclosure................................................................................$129,900 Cruisers, T-3116 CATS, full canvas, full electr, windlass, air, Genset....................................................................................$119,000 Carver 444 MY, T-370HP Volvo Diesel, Loaded, Bow Thruster, Windlass, Clean.................................................................$184,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-450 Cummins, new camper, full electr, loaded, clean .....................................................................$164,900 Fountain Lightning, T-625HP Mercs, trailer, many upgrades, custom trailer.......................................................................$118,900 Carver Voyager, T-D9A Volvos, full elect, bow & stern thruster, loaded, clean ..................................................................$496,000 Marquis, T-825HP MTU Diesel, Loaded, Bow & Stern Thrusters, Super Clean ..................................................................$599,900 PROFESSIONAL AND EXPERIENCED BROKERS, WE NEED LISTINGS!
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Davis Sportfisherman T-1825hp Dsl ... $2,799,000 Hatteras Yacht Fish T-430HP Dsl .............$199,000 Carver 460 Voyager T-480hp Dsl.....................SOLD! Cherubini Indpd.Trawler T-250hp Dsl............SOLD! Cruisers 4450 MY T-480HP DSL................... $179,900 Egg Harbor Sport Yacht T-700hp Dsl .........SOLD! Hatteras Motor Yacht T-485hp Dsl.............SOLD! Buddy Davis Cntr Cnsole Quad 400hp ......SOLD! Buddy Davis Cntr Cnsole Quad 350hp....... SOLD! Silverton Aft Cabin T-502s ............................SOLD! Sea Ray 400 EC T-340.....................................SOLD! Intrepid 377 WA Trip-300hp..........................SOLD! Cruisers 3750 MY T-385HP...............................$99,900 Sea Ray 370 Sundancer T-340hp................$49,900 Sea Ray Sedan Bridge T-340hp..................SOLD! Egg Harbor Convertible T-350hp............... $30,000
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34' 34’ 34’ 34’ 34’ 33' 32’ 31' 31’ 31' 31’ 28' 28' 28’ 28' 28'
Buddy Davis CC T-425hp...................... ON ORDER Rinker 342 Fiesta Vee T-300HP .......................$69,900 Silverton Motor Yacht T-454s..........................$49,900 Buddy Davis Cntr Cnsole Twin 425hp........SOLD! Mainship Pilot 34 S-350hp Dsl.....................SOLD! Chris Craft 336 Commander T-340hp.........$24,900 Topaz Sportfisherman T-375hp Dsl.......$42,500 Sea Ray 310 Sundancer T-300hp................. SOLD! Pursuit 315 Offshore T-250hp....................SOLD! Cigarette Bullet T-365hp ...............................SOLD! Duffy Downeaster S-210HP DSL...................$59,900 Buddy Davis................................................IN STOCK Pursuit 2870 CC W/Trl T-225hp ..................... SOLD! Buddy Davis Center Console T-300hp.......SOLD! Pursuit 285 Offshore T-250hp.......................SOLD! Buddy Davis CC T-300hp...................... ON ORDER
www.yachtworld.com/lakeandbay 9454 Park Row | Lakeside/Marblehead, Ohio 43440 | lakeandbay@roadrunner.com Phone/Fax: 419-798-8511
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BERGMANN MARINE
Charlevoix, MI 49720 • Phone 231/547-3957
www.bergmannmarine.com 13’ 2014 Boston Whaler ....................$14,000
36’ 1984 Catalina ........................................ Call
20’ 1995 Sea Ray B/R ...........................$8,700
39’ 1984 O’Day .....................................$24,500
24’ 1994 Sea Ray B/R, no trailer ......$10,700
39’ 1983 Lindmark Trawler 39...........$60,000
25’ 1959 Chris-Craft Sportsman ....... $59,999
46’ 1999 Beneteau Oceanis 461 .....$169,900
25’ 2007 Cobia 254 Center Console ...$46,000
48’ 2002 Fairline Targa 48 ................$259,000
36’ 1987 Tiara Conv. ............................$69,900
50’ 1986 Chris-Craft Constellation ... $169,000
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Classifieds
Place your classified online! Place your classified ad at lakelandboating.com by NOVEMBER 15 to get into our January, February, March and April 2020 issues! Spring will come sooner than you think!
2020 22' CAPE DORY 220 SPORT Excellent, fuel efficient and versatile boat. 115 Hp. Canvas & other items in photo are optional. Asking $49,997. Dealerships Available. Contact 206-290-0028 or madisonbay22@gmail.com. MAR20
2014 RANGER TUGS R-27 Two owner, 100% freshwater, excellent condition. Indoor heated storage, 429 hours on Volvo D3, 200hp diesel engine. Garmin navigation package, bow & stern thrusters, AC/heat. 2015 Integrity aluminum custom trailer included! Asking $149,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0180. RYS
2015 REGAL 53 SPORT COUPE Immaculate boat, only 77 hours, still under manufacturer warranty. Every amenity imaginable. Never lived aboard. Twin Cummins Zeus Pods. Truly luxurious, highest level of comfort and the latest in technology. Freshwater only. Asking $779,000. Call 231-409-1792 or email tammie.cornell@ grandbaymarine.com. NOV19
New!
2019 WELDCRAFT 220 OCEAN KING – DEMO Aggressive upswept bow provides the utmost seaworthiness, fully enclosed Alaskan Bulkhead hardtop, 32° bow entry transitions to an 18° transom deadrise. Upgrades: Yamaha T9.9XPB High-thrust kicker, Rear Transom Door, Electric Trim Tabs, AJR Front Window with Heir Sliders, Rear Console with Hydraulic Steering, and much more! Asking $75,900. Call Brent @616-402-0180. RYS
2002 31' FORMULA PC31 Twin 6.2 MPI MerCruisers. Asking $68,000. Contact 231-9335414 or info@harborviewyachtsales.com. HV
2019 60' PRINCESS S60 SPORTBRIDGE YACHT New delivery to the Great Lakes and available for immediate delivery. Rare chance to own a boat of this caliber with less than 200 hours and full warranties. Asking $2,750,000. Call 231-499-1929 or email rvenner@walstrom.com. NOV19
EMPLOYMENT HELP WANTED: Experienced boat salesperson and technicians needed. The sooner the better! Please call: 630-330-5333. BAS
U. S. Postal Service STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT & CIRCULATION 1. Title of publication: Lakeland Boating 2. Publication No. PE53-2090 3. Date of Filing: October 1, 2019 4. Frequency of Issue: monthly except Nov/Dec double issue 5. No. of Issues Published Annually: eleven 6. Annual Subscription Price: $24.95 7. Mailing address of Known Office of Publication: O’MearaBrown Publications, Inc., 1555 Sherman Ave., Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201 Contact Person: Linda O’Meara 312-276-0610 x. 22 8. Mailing Address of Headquarters or General business Offices of the Publisher: O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., 1555 Sherman Ave., Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201 9. Names and Complete Mailing Address of Publisher, Editor and Managing Editor. Publisher: O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., 1555 Sherman Ave., Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201. Editor: Kate Bush, O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., 1555 Sherman Ave., Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201. Managing Editor: Linda O'Meara, 1555 Sherman Ave., Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201 10. Owner: Walter B. O’Meara, O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., 1555 Sherman Ave., Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Oth Securities: None. 12. Tax Status. For completion by nonprofit organizations.
No change 13. Publication Title: Lakeland Boating 14. Issue date for circulation data below: Oct. 2018 – Sept. 2019 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Avg. No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date A. Total No. Copies 5,493; 5,011 B1. Paid or Requested Mail Subscriptions 3,040; 2,877 B3. Sales through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, and Counter Sales 86; 80 B4. Other classes mailed through the USPS 0; 0 C. Total Paid Distribution 3,126; 2,957 D1. Free Distribution by Mail 1,082; 1,084 D4. Free Distribution Outside the Mail 173; 175 E. Total Free Distribution 1,255; 1,259 F. Total Distribution 4,381; 4,216 G. Copies Not Distributed 1,111; 795 H. Total 5,492; 5,011 I. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation 71.36%; 70.14% 16. I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (electronic and print) are paid above a nominal price. 17. Statement of Ownership will be printed in the Nov/Dec 2019 issue of this publication. 18. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete. Walter B. O’Meara, Owner
1999 32' NORDIC TUG Freshwater, 220 HP Cummins. Asking $148,000. Contact 231-933-5414 or info@harborviewyachtsales.com. HV
42' 2017 GALEON 42 FLYBRIDGE D6 435 HP Volvos; freshwater only; low hours; trades welcome. 2 stateroom 2 head layout; radar, autopilot, GPS, VHF, chart plotters, depth finder; windlass w/anchor; bottom painted. Asking $549,900. Contact 815357-8666 or sales@springbrookmarina.com. SPR
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2018 EASTERN SISU Downeast-style boat with Yamaha 115 outboard with 70 hrs, upgraded Sunbrella fabric, full-transom fish box, Garmin Chartplotter, ICOM VHF radio, Todd ladderback helm chairs provide both comfort and visibility, 5'9" headroom and 6'9" V berth. Load Rite tandem axle trailer included in price. Asking $54,900 Call Bob @ 616-843-1225. RYS
DOOR COUNTY PROPERTY Yacht Harbor and shoreline property in Door County, Wisconsin. 21 acres with southern exposure on Lake Michigan. 1,200 feet of shoreline with a deep harbor that can accommodate vessels in the 80' range. Price: $1.45 million. For additional information, contact Dan at 312-998-9010, or email dkaniff@gmail.com. NOV19
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CLASSIC CRAFT
Long Time No Sea
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Jim Ramsey’s parents purchased a 13-foot Lyman outboard when he was very young. They loved to fish for perch in Lake Erie and Jim recalls catching perch two-at-a-time with them. Little did he know he would be the owner of a Lyman 30 years later. His youngest brother, Kevin, gave Jim his Lyman to restore and their plan was to have it ready to launch in three months. Eleven years later (hence the name Long Time No Sea) they were ready. It was the combined effort of Jim, his three sons, and his brother, Kevin, who completed the project. However, the boat was overpowered and began leaking after several years. After researching the history of their Lyman, they decided to return the boat to its original specs: An Islander model with a four-cylinder, 60hp Gray Marine engine. Designed as a fishing boat, it has fore and aft steering wheels. The grandchildren like to steer from the front wheel with the captain supervising at the rear wheel. Jim’s wife, Marti, likes the ride of the Islander and the fact that it doesn’t go fast. The family has enjoyed the boat, having taken it to the Muskoka Lakes in Ontario, Canada, and lakes in Michigan and Ohio. They’ve also taken Long Time No Sea to boat shows in Toledo, Ohio; Detroit, Michigan; Tavares, Florida; Lakeside, Ohio; Algonac, Michigan; and Gravenhurst, Ontario, to name a few. One of Jim and Marti’s sons got engaged to their daughter-in-law on the boat. Jim, along with his sons — Scott, Dave and Chris (who created Ramsey Brothers Restorations) — are all involved in maintaining the Islander. They plan to enjoy the boat for many years Email kbush@lakelandboating.com if you have a to come! Classic Craft with a good story to share! —Jim & Marti Ramsey
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
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PHOTOS COU RTESY OF JIM RAMSEY
1960 18-foot Lyman Islander.
STINGRAY BOATS ARE AVAILABLE AT THESE GREAT LAKES AREA DEALERS USA DEALERS American Marina & Motorsports 830 E Green Bay Street Shawano WI 715-526-4300 americanmarina.com Centerpointe Yacht Services 77 S 1st Ave Sturgeon Bay WI 920-746-1912 centerpointeservice.com
Bill’s Boatworks 187 Wilmuth Avenue Lackawanna NY 716-824-7181 billsboatworks.com Frank's Marine 17530 W Akron Canfield Rd Berlin Center OH 330-547-3688 franksmarine.com
Boat Guys 104 W Lake Road Maryville NY 716-753-3913 chautauquamarina.com Glen Harbor Marina 517 E 4th Street Watkins Glen NY 607-535-2751 glenharbormarina.com
CenterPointe Yacht Services 21 56th Street Kenosha WI 414-273-0711 centerpointeservice.com
Grand Valley Marine 3711 28th Street SW Grandville MI 616-538-2460 grandvalleymarine.com
CenterPointe Yacht Services 400 Sussex Street Pewaukee WI 262-333-0700 centerpointeservice.com
R C Congel Boats 8575 Brewerton Road Cicero NY 315-699-2144 rccongel.com
Wonderland Marine West 5796 E Grand River Ave Howell MI 517-548-5122 wonderlandmarinewest.com
Pirate Cove Marina 4304 Rideau River Rd Kemptville, Ontario 613-258-2325 piratecovemarina.com
Rosseau Road Powersports 25 Blackstone & Crane Lk Rd Seguin, Ontario 705-378-5217 rosseauroad.ca
CANADA DEALERS Anstruther Marina 23 Fire Route 63 Apsley, Ontario 705-656-4783 anstrutherlakemarina.com
Leisure Marine 5781 Highway 7 Woodbridge, Ontario 905-851-3903 leisuremarine.com
Mobile Marine Services 261 Hunter Road Grimsby, Ontario 905-730-4722 mobilemarineservices.net
North Country Marine 4201 Perth Road Kingston Inverary, Ontario 613-353-1577 northcountrymarine.com
TO LOCATE A STINGRAY DEALER IN ANOTHER AREA, VISIT STINGRAYBOATS.COM/DEALERS
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