From the Helm

Some Good News

The news can get you down these days. But there is some uplifting news that stems from social distancing requirements: The huge jump in new boaters making their way to the water.

Without a lot of options for summertime activities, more and more people are finding that boating is a great way to safely get some fresh air, and they’re buying — or renting — into the industry. I’ve heard from dealers that they’re nearly out of inventory, Statistical Surveys Inc. reported that June boat registrations jumped 20% year-over-year (particularly entry-level boats), and boat clubs have skyrocketed in new rentals (p. 12).

It’s good news indeed.

Changing times also means that the industry is updating its methods of bringing in new clientele. One group that they’re targeting: Millennials.

Contributor Heather Steinberger explores how a growing number of Millennials are joining the boating world (p. 16). They (myself included) enjoy experiences over status symbols, and are more keen on technology than previous generations. According to a Great Lakes dealer: “Our industry has needed to bring in new boaters, and here they are. Now that they’ve gotten a taste of what the boating lifestyle is like, I’m hopeful they’ll stick with it.”

One yacht manufacturer that has accepted the challenge of bridging the generational divide is Marlow Yachts. When Capt. Tom Serio got aboard its new 58E, he was pleasantly surprised to find that the new yacht caters to the younger market by providing a refreshed layout, bright and modern materials, and technology galore (p. 28).

So welcome, all you new boaters out there. We’re happy to have you join us on the water!

Do you have a story idea you’d like to suggest? mail me at kbush@lakelandboating.com to share your ideas.

Baraga and L’Anse, MI p.36

East Tawas State Harbor p. 46

AREAS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE

Port Clinton, OH p. 44

HEATHER STEINBERGER

Heather is an awardwinning writer/editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 20 years. She grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan and enjoys powerboating, sailing and standup paddleboarding with her husband, professional photographer Richard

Steinberger, and daughter, Johanna. Read her story on p. 16

HHH

CRAIG RITCHIE

Born in Toronto, Craig Ritchie named his first boat Bed in order to explain occasional absences from work. Whenever anyone asked, he would cough loudly and mumble about having spent the day in Bed. The key, he says, was to never forget the sunscreen. Read his stories on pgs. 21 and 32

HHH

CHUCK WARREN

Chuck is a lifelong boater with experience on the waters of the Atlantic, Gulf of

Mexico, Caribbean and the Great Lakes. During his 25- year marine industry career, he has been an offshore powerboat racing team driver, chief engineer aboard a research vessel and captain of a sunset cruise. Currently a captain for hire in

Holland, Michigan, Chuck lives on his 40-foot Sea Ray in the summer while winters are split between the West

Michigan lakeshore and wherever his 33-foot motorhome takes him. Read his story on p. 24