HU R ON | ON T ARIO | MICHIGAN | ERIE | SUPERI O R A multi-use dual console built to do the job. p. 34 SPOTLIGHTS FORMULA ★ RANGER TUGS SAVANNAH ★ SEA RAY SEPTEMBER 20 2 2 WELLCRAFT 355 The hard-charging vessel that pushes the limits. p. 38 BOATS OF FUTURETHE High tech comes to the world of boating. p. 42 LAKE CHAMPLAIN The“Sixth Great Lake” hosts the International Antique & Classic Boat Show. p. 46 PORT OF CALL Sodus Point, NY: A boater’s paradise with a big personality. p. 50 SAILFISH 276 DC
Features Sailfish 276 DC Split personality. by Chuck Warren 34 Wellcraft 355 Satisfying your needs. by Capt. Tom Serio 38 Boats of the Future Technology continues to evolve at lightning pace, and that’s great news for boaters. Curious what the future holds? Here’s just a sample of the new high tech we could be seeing on the water in the years ahead. by Craig Ritchie ............................42 Burlington & Lake Champlain Fun on and off the water. by Susan R. Pollack 46 Port of Call: Sodus Point, NY A fun town with a big boating presence, Sodus Point is a boater’s paradise situated on a beautiful bay on the southern shores of Lake Ontario. ough the town may be small, it is vibrant. As Yoda would say: “Size matters not.” by Margaret Steiss ........ 50 Departments From the Helm......................................................................... 4 Dockbox 6 Calendar 8 Scuttle 12 Great Gear ............................................................................ 22 Don’t Hesitate to Renovate................................................ 24 Electronics 26 Safety First 27 Beneath the Surface 28 Boat Spotlights: Formula, Ranger Tugs, Savannah, Sea Ray 30 Marina Watch: Elk Rapids Marina ...................................... 56 Lakeshore Life: Fountain, MI ............................................. 58 Marine Marketplace 59 Classifieds 71 Classic Craft 72 ON THE COVER A split personality we can get behind. The Sailfish 276 DC is a true multi-use dual console that offers an abundance of traditional features perfect for the seasoned angler, while extra comforts and seating options make it equally at home as a family day boat for relaxing and soacking up the sun. TOURISMCOUNTYWAYNEOFCOURTESYPHOTO50 TABLE OF CONTENTS ★ Shop boats for sale by owner ★ Place a classified ad ★ Peruse dozens of exciting destination stories ★ Check out our latest Boat Tests & Spotlights ★ Purchase our Great Lakes Cruising Guides and Lakeland Boating hats ★ Access past issues with our online magazine ★ Stay current on all the latest Great Lakes news ★ Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter ★ And much more! @ lakelandboating.com 2 SEPTEMBER 2022 LAKELANDBOATING.COM
t’s that time we’ve all tried hard to forget about all summer long. Labor Day Weekend is drawing to a close and we’re all wrapping up our final few adventures out on the lake before the decommissioning and winterizing of our favorite summer watercraft. Summer may be nearing its close, but in addition to those final warm-weather cruises, there’s still plenty of opportunity for cooler weather fun on and near the GreatBundleLakes.up, launch your own boat (or kayak) and set out on a day cruise to enjoy the changing colors and less busy waterways; plan a fall camping adventure to an overnight destination you’ve been wanting to visit; or enjoy one of the area’s many seasonal festivals before winter officially comes to the Great Lakes (p. 28).
Award-winning travel journalist Susan has covered travel for more than 35 years, visiting scores of countries on five continents, 49 states, six Canadian provinces and hundreds of cities, islands and outposts along the way. Her award-winning stories and photos have appeared in major publications including The Detroit News, Toronto Star, Dallas News, Chicago Sun Times, Delta Sky, CRUISECRITIC.COM, THEWINEBUZZ. COM, DETROITNEWS.COM/TRAVELBLOG and more. Follow her on Twitter: susanrpollack, Instagram: srpollack and Facebook: Susan R. Pollack.
READ HER STORY ON P. KEVIN46KOENIGKevin is an awardwinning journalist living and working in Connecticut.Greenwich,His 12 years in the marine industry have helped him live a fulfilling and adventure-laden life thus far. At 39, he remains pretty much up for whatever.
I
HHH HHH CRAIG RITCHIE Born in Toronto, Craig 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 STORY ON P. SUSAN42 R. POLLACK
September 5 - 10 marks the 20th annivesary of the International Antique and Classic Boat Show held in Burlington, Vermont, on the shores of Lake Champlain. Enjoy a weekend of adventure, history and fun on and off the water at what was once known as the “Sixth Great Lake” (p. 46). If you’re looking to close out the summer and kick off fall with a port destination that offers charm, history and a slew of waterside activities, Sodus Point, New York, is a little town with a big personality (p. 50). Located on one of the largest bays on Lake Ontario, the town is steeped in history dating to before the War of 1812, and since the early 1900s has served as a summer playground for visitors arriving by trolley, train, steamship and (now) car and boat. See you on the water! Do you have a story idea you’d like to suggest? Email me at athorpe@lakelandboating.com to share your ideas.
Elk Rapids Marina p. 56 Lake Champlain & Burlington, VTp. 46 Sodus Point, NY p. 50Fountain, MI p. 58 CONTRIBUTORS
READ HIS STORIES FROM P. 30
Changing of the Seasons
AREAS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE
FROM THE HELM BY ABBY THORPE
4 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
6 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
—Dan McCormick, Whitehall, MI
PUBLISHER Linda O’Meara PUBLISHER IN MEMORIUM Walter “Bing” O’Meara EDITORIAL STAFF Editorial Director: Kate Bush Assistant Editor: Abby Thorpe CREATIVE STAFF Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs CONTRIBUTORS Helen Aitken, Glenn Hayes, Kevin Koenig, Capt. Frank Lanier, Susan R. Pollack, Craig Ritchie, Capt. Tom Serio, Heather Steinberger, Margaret Steiss, Chuck Warren BUSINESS STAFF National Sales: Mark Conway Regional Sales: Patti McCleery Accounting: Marguerite Wristen EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 / Fax: 312-276-0619 INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COMLAKELANDBOATING.COM CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 x. 24 / Fax: 312-276-0619 CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM SUBSCRIPTIONS Lakeland Boating P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-504-8475 O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC Vice President: Linda O’Meara Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2022, by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’MearaBrown Publications, Inc. • Business/Accounting and Editorial Offices: 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201, 312-276-0610. • Call 847-5048475 to subscribe. Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 (U.S.). Annual subscription rates: United States: $24.95 per year; International and Canadian: $39.95 per year, includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. 894095074-RT 0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $4.99 for U.S. and Canada. Only U.S. funds are accepted. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices. • POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069. • Lakeland Boating is a registered trademark of O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., Evanston, IL. Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. • Unsolicited work may be submitted at the creator’s own risk. Lakeland Boating assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited material. All submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage. All published photos are courtesy of the manufacturer, unless otherwise noted. SEPTEMBER 20 2 2 | VOLUME LXXVI, NO. 9 DOCK BOX WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! E-mail us at KBUSH@LAKELANDBOATING.COM or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 1555 Sherman Ave., Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201. Opinions expressed in “Dock Box” are not necessarily those of Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A Everyone Looks Great in a Lakeland Boating Hat! Need a gift for your favorite boater? Our Lakeland Boating hat is constructed from soft cotton twill for a great fit. Leather band adjustment in back with antiqued brass closure. Available in weathered navy, Nantucket red and khaki. One size. $24.95 + S&H. To order, visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/STORE. NEW! LAKE LENS We want to see the gorgeous Great Lakes from your point of view! Send a write-upMB)photohigh-resolution(atleast1andashortaboutthatphototo LAKELANDBOATING.KBUSH@COM. Please put “Lake Lens” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a BoatingLakeland hat!
CANINE CREW
Stormy This is Stormy, my Australian shepherd. She is starting her seventh season working with me at South Shore Marine in Whitehall, Michigan. Stormy rides with us on our work barge moving boat hoists, installing docks and everything else around the marina. She greets customers at the gas dock and stands by everyday with me at the marina. This particular shot is in mid-November as we wrap up the season pulling our last dock on the North shore of White Lake. She is always up for a boat ride!
CALLING ALL CANINE (AND FELINE) CREW! We want to learn about your furry friends onboard! Send a short write-up with your pet’s name and your home city, as well as a highresolution photo (at least 1 MB) to: KBUSH@LAKELANDBOATING.COM. Please put “Canine/Feline Crew” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!
CALENDAR OF EVENTS AUGUST (DATES TBD) Apostle Islands Lighthouse Celebration Bayfield, WI LIGHTHOUSECELEBRATION.COM AUG 31 – SEPT 2 Blues in the Bay Weekend Alexandria Bay, NY VISITALEXBAY.ORG SEPT 1 - 5 Sheboygan County Fair Plymouth, WI SHEBCOFAIR.COM SEPT 2 - 4 Marquette Area Blues Fest Marquette, MI MARQUETTEAREABLUESSOCIETY.ORG Port of Orillia Pirate Party Orillia, ON ORILLIA.COM SEPT 2 - 5 Canada’s Largest Ribfest 1 Burlington, ON CANADASLARGESTRIBFEST.COM Keweenaw Mountain Lodge Copper Harbor Trails Fest Copper Harbor, MI COPPERHARBORTRAILS.ORG SEPT 3 - 4 Arts and Crafts Dockside St. Ignace, MI STIGNACE.COM SEPT 2 - 5 Detroit Jazz Festival Detroit, MI DETROITJAZZFEST.COM Labor Day Surf Weekend Sheboygan, WI VISITSHEBOYGAN.COM SEPT 3 Thumbfest Lexington, MI BLUEWATERFOLK.ORG SEPT 3 - 5 Cleveland National Air Show Cleveland, OH CLEVELANDAIRSHOW.COM SEPT 4 - 6 Marinafest Sister Bay, WI SISTERBAYMARINA.COM SEPT 5 Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk St. Ignace, MI MACKINACBRIDGE.ORG SEPT 7 Understanding Algal Blooms: State of the Science Conference Put-in-Bay, OH OHIOSEAGRANT.OSU.EDU SEPT 8 - 10 International Antique & Classic Boat Show Burlington, VT ACBS.ORG/EVENTS SEPT 8 - 18 Toronto International Film Festival Toronto, ON TIFF.NET SEPT 9 - 10 Harvest Stompede Suttons Bay, MI SUTTONSBAYAREA.COM SEPT 9 - 11 Historic Weekend Put-in-Bay, OH MILLERFERRY.COM SEPT 9 -11; 16 -18; 23 -25 Niagara Grape & Wine Festival St. Catharines, ON NIAGARAWINEFESTIVAL.COM SEPT 10 Alexandria Bay Wine Festival & Farmers Market Alexandria Bay, NY VISITALEXBAY.ORG Great Lakes Brew Fest 2 Racine, WI GREATLAKESBREWFEST.COM Kenosha Fall Fest Kenosha, WI KENOSHA.ORG Kenosha Streetcar Day Kenosha, WI KENOSHASTREETCARSOCIETY.ORG Mural Fest & Car Show Ashland, WI VISITASHLAND.COM Treasure Island Day Kelleys Island, OH KELLEYSISLANDCHAMBER.COM U.P. Fall Beer Festival Marquette, MI MIBEER.COM/UP-FALL-FESTIVAL SEPT 11 Door County Century 3 Bike Ride Sturgeon Bay, WI DOORCOUNTYCENTURY.COM Holland Haven Marathon and Half Marathon Holland, MI HOLLANDHAVENMARATHON.COM SEPT 14 - 18 Soo Film Festival Sault Ste. Marie, MI SOOFILMFESTIVAL.ORG SEPT 15 - 17 Paddle Antrim Festival 4 Ellsworth, MI PADDLEANTRIM.COM ADD YOUR EVENT! Visit GREAT-LAKES-EVENTSLAKELANDBOATING.COM/ to add your event to our Calendar of Events page! BEFOREDOUBLE-CHECKYOUGO! Events are likely to change. Please watch event websites for updates. 8 SEPTEMBER 2022 LAKELANDBOATING.COM 1 2 3 4 FACEBOOK;FESTBREWLAKESGREAT2.FACEBOOK;RIBFESTLARGESTCANADA’S1.OF:COURTESYPHOTOS FACEBOOKANTRIMPADDLE4.DOORCOUNTYCENTURY.COM;3.
Congrats, it’s a boat. Protect your baby with a leader in boat insurance. 1 800 PROGRESSIVE / PROGRESSIVE.COM liates.af&Co.InsuranceCasualtyProgressive
CALENDAR OF EVENTS 5.OFCOURTESYPHOTOS BOATSOLD6.BOATMICHIGAN.ORG; FACEBOOKBUFFALO SEPT 15 - 18 Metro Boat Show 5 Harrison Township, MI BOATMICHIGAN.ORG SEPT 17 Fall Festival St. Joseph, MI STJOETODAY.COM Harvest Fest & Street Art Auction Sturgeon Bay, WI STURGEONBAY.NET Miller Boat Line 5k & 1 Mile Family Fun Walk Put-in-Bay, OH 5KATPUTINBAY.COM Niagara Frontier Antique 6 and Classic Boat Show Grand Island, NY OLDBOATSBUFFALO.ORG Taste of Harbor Springs Harbor Springs, MI HARBORSPRINGSCHAMBER.COM SEPT 20 - 23 Vintage Sports Car Racing Put-in-Bay, OH PIBROADRACE.COM SEPT 23 - 25 Trek the Mighty Mac St. Ignace, MI STIGNACE.COM SEPT 24 Leelanau UnCaged Northport, MI LEELANAUUNCAGED.COM Cape Vincent Oktoberfest Cape Vincent, NY CAPEVINCENT.ORG SEPT 30 - OCT 2 Prince Edward County Studio Tour Picton, Ontario PECSTUDIOTOUR.COM gotyou’vemail! Get the latest Great Lakes boating news delivered right to your mailbox. Sign up for Lakeland Boating’s weekly e-newsletter at eepurl.com/byR_WX. *URLiscasesensitive lakelandboating.com ADD YOUR EVENT! Visit GREAT-LAKES-EVENTSLAKELANDBOATING.COM/ to add your event to our Calendar of Events page! BEFOREDOUBLE-CHECKYOUGO! Events are likely to change. Please watch event websites for updates. 10 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM 5 6
communitiestoTheParkconnectingbridgepedestrianspanningMainStreetandGlassCityMetroparkandInternationalisnowopen!bridgeispartofalargerprojectconnectmultipleinEastToledo.
BUZZ ACR Electronics Locator Beacons Approved for Sale in U.S.
SCUTTLE GREAT LAKES NEWS BOATS MUST-HAVE BUZZ EVENTS BUSINESS BOATS
For more information, visit ACRARTEX.COM.
SCOTTB211OFCOURTESYPHOTO ADD YOUR NEWS! Email LAKELANDBOATING.COMKBUSH@ to add your company’s Great Lakes News to Scuttle! 12 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Toledo’s new bike and
Malibu Releases Largest Model Ever Built
The ResQLink View RLS and ResQLink 410 RLS Personal Locator Beacons have been approved for sale in the U.S. by the US SARSAT Program. Cospas-Sarsat approved, the beacons utilize life-saving, next generation technology to offer more user-friendly features and functionality that assist in saving lives.
“ACR Electronics is proud to bring the Return Link Service to the U.S.,” says Mikele D’Arcangelo, vice president of Global Marketing and Product Management. “Offering two-way confirmation between 406 MHz beacon owners and Search and Rescue for the first time, the new technology can only be included in the latest distress beacons that are able to receive Galileo signals, so we are excited to offer one of the first RLS-equipped PLBs to boaters, hikers, pilots, hunters and all outdoor enthusiasts.”
Malibu has added the 26 LSV and the 22 LSV to its Luxury Sport V-Drive series. At over 26 feet long, the 26 LSV is the largest Malibu model ever built, and can accommodate up to 17 people — perfect for large parties looking to enjoy time on the water. Luxurious accommodations including plush transom seats, a Max-Pivot Seat and port side cooler storage for added comfort, while over 6,000 pounds of ballast and extra customization with Surf Gate and Power Wedge III technology give you all the performance you need for the perfect wake. The most compact of the LSV family, the 22 LSV is classic and modern, offering a new upgraded interior that includes a walkover transom and Multi-View Wake Bench — perfect for family-time on the water. Buyers can choose between the Diamond Multi-Sport Hull for a variety of watersports, or the Wake Plus Hull for added wakeboard and surf performance. For more information, visit MALIBUBOATS.COM.
“Best Harbor in the U.S.” Charlevoix, Michigan once again graced the list of U.S. Harbors’ “Best Harbor in the U.S.,” earning a spot as the Great Lakes Regional Winner. “This beautiful little harbor is a gateway to both Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix. It has all the amenities you could need,” said Julie S. during the voting. Now in its fourth annual year, the “Best Harbor in the U.S.” competition included six weeks of online voting, where over 2,500 people voted for their favorite harbor. Last year, Charlevoix stood out as the Grand Winner of the contest, which helps promote the strength and vitality of coastal communities, allowing residents to share their passion and love for their home port. For more information, visit USHARBORS.COM.
GREAT LAKES CharlevoixNEWSWins
Regional
GREAT LAKES
MuskegonNEWSLake to be Removed as Area of Concern
FACEBOOKPRESERVENATURELAKEMUSKEGONOFCOURTESYPHOTOMUSKEGON
LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 13
BUZZ Climate
After several decades and $80 million in restoration, Lake Muskegon has been virtually cleaned of its industrial past, reports MLIVE.COM. The 4,149-acre lake watershed fed by the Muskegon River flows into Lake Michigan, creating one of the best deep-water ports on the east side of the lake. Starting in the 1800s, industry took over the lake’s shoreline, eating up its beaches, sand and accessibility. Over the years, slag, industrial debris and trash was dumped into the lake, until in 1987 Muskegon Lake was designated a Great Lakes’ area of concern. After years of environmental advocacy and millions in restoration efforts that included the removal of 600,000 cubic yards of contaminated lake bottom sediment and fill and 123,000 tons of logging era debris, the lake is finally set to be removed as an area of concern. Acres of empty shoreline have been restored, and opportunity is wide open, with residential and commercial projects in the works. Monitored Buoys Deployed in Lake Superior
Three climate-monitoring and maritime-safety buoys have been deployed at Marquette, Munising and Grand Marais on Lake Superior by the Superior Watershed Partnership with grant funding provided by the Great Lakes Observing System. The buoys will collect critical data for recreational and commercial boating use as well as climate planning data like wave height, wind speed and water temperature.Accesslive buoy data at SEAGULL.GLOS.ORG/LANDING.
SCUTTLE
The CountryMuskegonClubwillwelcomeanew39-semi-customhomecommunitynamedLakesideDunes.LocatedalongthegolfcourseandLakeMichiganparksandbeaches,thedevelopmentissettobeginconstructionlaterthisyear.
20th International Boat Show
Electric boat manufacturer X Shore debuted in the U.S. last year, and combines innovative technology with sustainable design for this eye-catching model. A new addition, the Eelex 8000 offers outstanding acceleration and speed, covering 100-mile distances per charge with a towing capacity of nearly 1,8000 lbs. Buyers can choose between 15 configurations to select the perfect family boat for their needs, and the smartwatch and mobile app allow users to remotely monitor and start the boat, while providing geo-fencing software. Built from cork, recycled plastics and optional Flax fiber, the Eelex 8000 offers a more sustainable option. For more information, visit XSHORE.COM.
Burlington, Vermont, and Lake Champlain will play host to the 20th annual International Boat Show and 45th Annual Meeting this September, with the boat show taking to the water September 9-10 at the Burlington Harbor Marina and Burlington Boathouse Marina, and the meeting scheduled for September 8, 2022.
XBOATSShore Announces Eelex 8000 14 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
ACBSEVENTS
Antique Boat Museum Receives Grant
Set on picturesque Lake Champlain — known as the “Great Warpath” because of its significant role in the history of our nation — the boat show welcomes an incredible array of boats representing decades of history to this lake that stretches from Whitehall, New York, to the Richelieu River in Canada. For more information, visit ACBS.ORG.
The Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, New York, received a Partnership Grant for Capacity Building from the Museum Association of New York and the New York State Council on the Arts, which awarded $497,114 to 102 grantees. “These types of grant funds are incredibly helpful to museums of our size. We often are unable to budget for special projects that make an impact to the mission but may not impact ordinary day to day operations. Having the technology in place to facilitate the digitization of our permanent collection now is critical in securing long-term accessibility,” says Antique Boat Museum Executive Director Rebecca L. Hopfinger.
Fairline to Debut Phantom 65 and Squadron 68 at Cannes Yachting Festival
GREAT LAKES NEWS
Fairline will make two world debuts at the Cannes Yachting Festival this September with its brand new Phantom 65 and Squadron 68. The fi rst sportbridge yacht from the iconic builder, the Phantom 65 offers the ultimate in outdoor dining, entertainment and lounging, with the proportions of a Targa and sleek lines, expansive windows and flexible entertainment spaces designed to flow seamlessly into one another. The Squadron 68 offers a revised exterior and interior design, including a sociable bar and new galley created to maximize workspace. Below deck, choose from three or four cabins, designed, like those of the Phantom 65, to offer space, elegance and usability. “We’re delighted to be making two world debuts at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival. Having taken onboard feedback from customers to further improve the Squadron 68, we’re confident buyers will fall in love with it as much as we have. New and exciting products breed growth in this market and the response we have received for our latest models is incredible,” says Paul Grys, Fairline Yachts’ CEO. For more information, visit FAIRLINE.COM.
See our story on Lake Champlain on page 48!
BOATS
GREAT LAKES MackinacNEWSIsland Named Best Island in the Continental U.S. Mackinac Island garnered the title of Best Island in the Continental U.S. in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 World’s Best Awards. Measuring less than five square miles, the “Jewel of the Great Lakes” is a Michigan National Landmark, and has delighted visitors for generations with its history, iconic charm and horse-drawn community.
Full service, family-owned Algonac Harbour Club located on the St. Clair River in what was once home to the original Chris Craft factory has been acquired by Walstrom Marine, following an investment in Walstrom Marine by a group led by Continuum Ventures.
For more info, visit ALGONACHARBOURCLUB.COM.
Harbour Club Acquired by Walstrom Marine
AHC was founded in 1985 by Peter Beauregard, Sr., who will continue to serve as a consultant and will retain an ownership portion in the business while Tom Ervin, President of Walstrom Marine, takes over leadership of AHC. “Algonac Harbour Club is an exceptional marina operator with amenities and services that appeal to an engaged and loyal customer base,” says Ervin. “We look forward to working closely with the team and, through Walstrom and now the Algonac Harbour Club, offering an unprecedented community and customer experience.”
BOATS Invictus
GT320S to Debut at Cannes Yachting Festival
Boasting a sporty character, attention to detail and eye-catching performance with impressive use of space, the new GT320S from Invictus is set to make its world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival September 6-11, 2022. Powered by twin Yamaha 300 hp engines and able to support a maximum power of 900 hp, the GT320S represents the fourth outboard model of Invictus’ popular range. The space saved by outboard power has been cleverly converted into a large living area, providing more comfort and room for owners and guests. Large windows offer plenty of natural light below deck, a dinette in the bow houses storage that can easily convert into a bed, and a large aft double bed and a comfortable bathroom are centrally located. The GT320S comes in 11 color combinations and four types of deck upholstery, while the private club Atelier Invictus offers a network of specialized craftsmen and suppliers to truly customize the GT320S. INVICTUSYACHT.COM.
“We are elated to be recognized by the readers of Travel + Leisure for this prestigious award,” says Tim Hygh, Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau executive director. “Mackinac Island is a destination full of character that has made it a nostalgic place people keep coming back to time and time again. This accolade is not only a testament to the charm of the island, but the incredible community and businesses that make this destination so special.”
AlgonacBUSINESS
Head to Sister Bay, WI for the annual Marina Fest this Labor Day show,EnjoySeptemberWeekend,4-6.avintageboatartsandcrafts,farmersmarket,kidsactivities,livemusic,afireworkscruise,woodenboatraffleandmoreatthepicturesqueSisterBayMarinainDoorCounty. 16 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
For more information, visit MACKINACISLAND.ORG.
BUZZ Limestone Boat Company Goes Electric Limestone Boat Company has successfully completed sea trials of the first fully electric center console produced in the U.S., and plans to shift into production with a target delivery date to dealers of the second quarter of 2023.
SCUTTLE
“The sea trial results met our expectations, confirming that we can be the first to offer a fully electric-powered 21-foot Center Console boat that is expected to deliver an average cruising speed of 23 mph, over two hours of run time, and can be recharged at dockside in four to eight hours depending on whether one opts for one or two onboard chargers,” says Scott Hanson, CEO of the Limestone Boat Company. The Vision Marine electric outboard-powered Aquasport 2100CC offers all the benefits of an EV boating experience without sacrificing performance, reaching top speeds of 38mph. For more info, visit LIMESTONEBOATCOMPANY.COM.
BUREAUTOURISMISLANDMACKINACOFCOURTESYPHOTO
Now available in USA, Fratelli Aprea Sorrento 1890. Hand-built by generations of master craftsmen in the heart of the Mediterranean. Create your own private Italian island for delivery in North America. • 7.50 Open Cruise Semi-CabinatoSport/ • 7.80 Traditional Gozzo • 32’ Open Cruise Semi-Cabinato/Cabinato/HardtopSemi-Cabinato/Cabinato/HardtopSport•36’OpenCruiseSport•50’LussoP.O. Box B Boyne City, MI +1.313.908.381849712 WWW.FRATELLIAPREAUSA.COM SorrentoIntroducing36 Hardtop
A ground breaking ceremony is planned for late summer/early fall this year for Barletta’s new 184,000 square foot production facility at its plant in Bristol, Indiana. The addition will expand the pontoon manufacturer’s footprint to over 425,000 square feet, and is expected to create over 200 new jobs, with the facility planned to be available for production starting in spring 2023.
“This expansion is the next step in our continued evolution,” says Jeff Haradine, vice president of sales at Barletta Pontoon Boats. “The Barletta brand continues to experience tremendous momentum in the market, and our expanded facility will allow us to continue to meet strong consumer demand. As we approach our five-year anniversary, we are proud of our progress, and we look forward to continuing to set the bar for outdoor experiences on the water for many more customers in the future.”
For more info, visit BARLETTAPONTOONBOATS.COM.
To learn more, visit HINCKLEYYACHTS.COM.
Hinckley Yachts Picnic Boat 40 S is the quietest boat on the water thanks to a new hybrid upgrade incorporating SilentJet technology which allows the boat to run in virtually full silence.
“With SilentJet, you glide away from the dock and cruise through the harbor in total silence,” says Scott Bryant, Hinckley’s vice president of sales and marketing. “When faster speeds are desired or the battery requires charging, the diesel engine comes on automatically, replenishing the battery in just 30-45 minutes. Since all the electrical loads on the Picnic Boat can be supported by the battery while at anchor, there’s no need for a noisy generator. It’s a complete paradigm shift in the onboard Hinckley Experience.”
BUSINESS Barletta to Expand Bristol Manufacturing Facility
With SilentJet engaged, the 40 S runs at a cruising speed of 7 knots with a range of at least an hour, or cruises at 35 knots under diesel power.
IconicBUZZ
18 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
SCUTTLE
Hinckley Picnic Boat Now Offers SilentJet Technology
VISIT US AT THESE SHOWS! Metro Boat Show, Lake St. Clair MI, September 15-18 • Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, October 26-30 Made for the ocean; GREAT for the LAKES Prestige 520S Prestige 590S ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI | OAKLAND COUNTY, MI | ALGONAC, MI WWW.COLONYMARINE.COM | (586) 772-1550 Serving Lake Huron, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario and Lake St. Clair
20 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
IguanaBOATS
Inspired by all that we love about the Iguana range, the new Iguana Sport combines comfort, elegance and versatility in a 30-foot multipurpose model that is built to be both strong and versatile, offering Iguana’s most ingenious design yet.
The Sport can hold 12 passengers and reach a top speed of 48 knots, powered by twin 350-hp engines. Offering the iconic beautiful Iguana aesthetic, the Sport is made to do it all.
SCUTTLE
RecreationalBUZZ Boating Industries Foundation Awards $12,500 in Scholarships
“Michigan supports the third largest recreational boating market in the country and needs qualified, educated individuals to continue our leadership role,” says RBIEF president Jim Coburn of The Coburn Consulting Company. “RBIEF is proud to provide funding and educational opportunities for individuals interested in recreational boating careers.”
The Recreational Boating Industries Educational Foundation announced an award of $12,500 in scholarships to seven students showing an avid interest in pursuing marine industry careers. Started in 1986 by the Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA), the RBIEF scholarship fund aims to advance opportunities for training to advance Michigan’s marine industry, and annually awards scholarships to students and MBIA members and employees. To date, the fund has awarded $422,117 to recipients.
Launches Iguana Sport
For more information, visit MBIA.ORG.
For more information, visit IGUANA-YACHTS.COM.
Whitewater Packable Rain Jacket
GREAT GEAR MUST-HAVE GOODIES AND GADGETS FOR EVERY BOATER ADD YOUR GEAR! Email LAKELANDBOATING.COMKBUSH@ to add your company’s new product news to Great Gear!! Featuring 22 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Dometic Gravity Toilet Ditch the porta-pottie and opt for comfort and convenience. Perfect for a wide range of vessels, Dometic’s new Gravity Series Toilet eliminates the need for a holding tank and pumps and hoses, freeing up bilge space and making for easy installation. A self-containing waste tank doubles as a toilet stand, and two bowl styles (models 700 and 5000) accomodate different vessels, spaces and owner needs, with the 700 offering a floorto-seat height ideal for more restricted spaces.
Star brite Ultimate Water Asborber Safely dry any gelcoat, fiberglass or auto finish (including eisenglass and plastic) with Star brite’s performance drying towel. Lint-free and resistant to chemicals, mold and mildew, the Ultimate Water Absorber is ultra soft, won’t scratch surfaces and lasts for years. Best of all, it’s machine washable for easy cleaning. STARBRITE. COM; $14.99 AT BASSPRO.COM
West Marine Folding Wagon Stay organized while you transport gear to and from the boat, beach or campsite with West Marine’s durable folding wagon that features an end-panel tailgate to easily transport larger items, and handy cup holders for easy-access drink placement. Featuring blow molded tires for smooth transport over various surfaces (including sand and docks strewn with lines), the wagon quickly folds up for easy storage in your car or onboard your boat. Made of durable, double-layer fabric; includes a handled carry bag for easy storage and transportation.
PRICING AT DOMETIC.COM
$199.99 AT DEFENDER.COM
$119.99 AT WESTMARINE.COM
Isotherm ITC Display TemperatureIntelligentControl Reduce power consumption and help keep the cold in with this Isotherm display and control that clearly displays, controls and regulates temperatures in refrigerated compartments from the exterior of the fridge or freezer. The simple kit makes it quick and easy to install, and it can deliver up to 40% energy savings with combined effects. Equipped with Soft Start function to avoid starting surges.
True North Water Resistant Outdoor Blanket Featuring ChappyWrap’s warm, soft cottonblend fabric on one side and Boathouse Sports’ premium Suplex outdoor fabric on the other, this
designs.comesoutdoortocomfortable.isfromblanketwater-resistantfirst-everoutdoorcollaborationbothbrandsfunctionalandDesignedwithstandvariousacitivities,itinfourdifferent
$115 CHAPPYWRAP.COMAT
Defy the weather conditions and stay dry and comfortable while fishing and boating this fall with Whitewater’s highly packable, breathable and waterproof rain jacket. Made of 100% polyester interlock fabric with a laminated interior and DWR treatment, the jacket is as breathable as it is waterproof, perfect for any angling adventure no matter the weather. Features a zip-away adjustable hood and convenient bag for easy storage. Available in black or steel grey in five sizes, men’s SM-3X. $79.99 AT WHITEWATERFISH.COM
The most common seacock styles are tapered-plug, expanded-rubber-plug and ball-valves. Gate valves are notorious troublemakers and not recommended for use as a seacock. Not only is the worm gear prone to corrosion and failure, it’s also possible for trash to prevent the gate from closing fully, something not readily Un-flanged,indicated.inlineball valves screwed directly onto a thru-hull are also a common sight, although this isn’t an acceptable practice. Installing an in-line valve onto a NPS thru-hull fitting creates a mismatch of threads, resulting in a weaker, less waterproof joint. As it has no mounting flange, an in-line valve can also turn or loosen from the thru-hull fitting due to vibration or through normal use.
How to keep your seacocks ready, willing and able.
LANIERFRANKCAPT.BYPHOTOS DON’T HESITATE TO RENOVATE BY CAPT. FRANK LANIER Cut hose due
Seacock Inspections
24 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
S eacocks are the Rodney Dangerfield of boat equipment. They just “don’t get no respect” and typically receive little thought or attention — until they fail. Here are some inspection and maintenance tips to help keep yours ready, willing and able.
Types of seacocks
Material-wise, seacocks should be constructed of either marine grade bronze or composite construction. Inspections Seacocks should be inspected and operated monthly. Start with a visual inspection, keeping an eye out for leaks, broken/missing hose clamps, damaged or missing components and corrosion. If connected to the boat’s grounding system, ensure ground wire connections are tight and corrosion free for proper operation.
Backing plates should be stable, leak-free, properly sized (surface area greater than that of the seacock flange) and in the case of wood backing plates, rot free. Next, check the seacock for smoothness of operation and that the handle can be moved through its full arc of operation without being blocked by equipment, cabinetry or vessel structural components.
A “proper” seacock Per American Boat and Yacht Council recommendations, all piping, tubing or hose lines penetrating the hull below the maximum heeled waterline (under normal conditions of trim and heel) require a seacock to stop the admission of water in the event of a piping failure. Should a seacock need to be installed or replaced, a proper seacock is one that’s flanged and meets UL 1121 and ABYC standards and recommendations. These include operation by a lever type handle which gives a clear indication of whether the seacock is open or shut, and a mounting that will withstand a 500-pound force applied at the inner end of the attached fitting. When installing a new seacock, replacement of the corresponding through-hull is also recommended to prevent the possibility of thread mismatch. Seacocks and their respective thru-hull must also be of the same material.
Other installation faux pas to look for include the use of PVC fittings or components, as well as any composite (plastic) to bronze joints. Bronze and plastic have different expansion and contraction rates, which can result in cracks or splits. During your annual haul out, remove the hose and look through the seacock to verify operation and to spot blockages. Another option is shining a flashlight into the thru-hull from the outside and observing its operation while someone inside opens and closes it. hose.deterioratedcorrosion,Seacockclampdoubleimpropertohoseinstall.
CAPT. FRANK LANIER is an award-winning journalist, boat maintenance guru and owner of Capt F.K. Lanier & Associates, Marine Surveyors and Consultants: CAPTFKLANIER.COM.
3. Remove any remaining water from the valve/tailpipe.
Maintenance While specific requirements will vary based on the type of seacock, in addition to inspections, general maintenance should also include a good greasing at least twice a year, even for so called “maintenance free” units. Some seacocks have grease fittings to simplify the process, however those that don’t can be greased (even while your boat is in the water) by following these steps:
DamagedblockedSChandle.handlebystringer.
Inspect seacock hoses, ensuring they are of the correct type (marine grade and approved for use on fittings below the waterline), free from kinks, damage, deterioration and that each end is double clamped with stainless steel clamps where possible.
1. Close the valve.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 25
2. Disconnect the seacock hose.
All hose has a limited lifespan and while recommendations vary between manufacturers, a good general rule is to replace all hoses at ten years of age, regardless of condition.
4. Swab a suitable waterproof grease onto the ball and cycle (open and close) the seacock a few times to spread the lubricant. ★
HAYESGLENNBYPHOTOS 26 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Keep your boating data safe and stored for next season.
Easier than ever A boater can lose data for various reasons such as equipment failure, power spikes, factory resets or more. Fortunately, backing up stored data from the latest chart plotters and multifunction displays is easier than ever. No matter what plotter brand, be it Raymarine, Furuno, Garmin, Simrad, Lowrance, B&G or another, saving precious data is not a complicated procedure. With some units, it is as easy as connecting to them wirelessly through apps on a smartphone or tablet. Apps such as those offered by Simrad and Garmin’s Active Captain allow the smart device to communicate via Bluetooth or WIFI and sync data, backing up any stored data on the onboard chart plotter/fish finder. Some will even allow downloading and storing screen shots of the sounder and other trip-related information. Stored data that should be backed up may also include preprogrammed boat data such as settings for auto-routing, fuel consumption or specific settings for the various functions of the display, such as the sounder, chart plotter, radar, alarms, etc. Backing up this data makes it much easier to get going again if you must do a master reset on your multifunction display or have it repaired for some reason. Some units can download the unit’s stored data to a memory card or flash drive, and many utilize SD or Micro SD cards for backing up data. If you require one of these cards, remember that bigger is not always better when it comes to card memory.
Keep it stored
A card no bigger than 32 gigabytes will suffice for any marine unit data backup. This is true even if the database is filled to its maximum level with waypoints, routes and tracks. If you try to use a larger memory card, it may not work as many multifunction displays cannot process cards bigger than 32 gigs and may not even recognize the card at all. The procedure to back up data varies from unit to unit and between manufacturers. If you are not sure how it is done for your multifunction display, you can refer to the owner’s manual. If you have misplaced your manual, or in some cases, some manufacturers no longer include one with their unit, you can find copies online at the manufacturer’s website. Some units, such as newer Simrad and Lowrance units, have the manual loaded in the software of the unit itself and can be used for reference at any time directly on screen. If you are still having trouble figuring out how to accomplish the backup, YouTube has a plethora of useful videos for almost all models, and, of course, you can always call the manufacturer’s technical support line and have a tech walk you through it.
Back it Up
I t has been a great boating season filled with good times, great memories and valuable data. Waypoints, routes and tracks have been created and stored on your chart plotter. Over the season, it has accumulated safe routes, productive fishing spots and special anchorages. If you don’t want to risk losing all that data, take some time and back them up. Doing so will ensure you can enjoy them again next season.
Once backed up, storing your data in a safe location is important. Some may say I am a bit obsessive, but I copy the file onto a hard drive as well as having it stored on a dedicated SD or Micro SD card. Remember to keep the cards stored somewhere safe, labeled and in a dry location that you will be able to access should you need to restore data. It is also a good idea to remove any chart or data cards you may have in the machines themselves when decommissioning for the off-season. These cards are tiny and valuable and can “walk-off” or possibly get damaged if left in the display long term. Keeping them all together in a storage container or marked envelope will ensure you will be ready next season. ★
ELECTRONICS
BY GLENN HAYES
GLENN HAYES is a marine writer and photographer whose background in the marine industry and in marine electronics spans almost three decades and many thousands of miles at sea traveling the world. He can be reached at HAYESSTUDIOS.COM .
“The batteries are waterproof but not frozen waterproof. Lubricate the terminals with a dielectric grease or corrosion blocker.”
What should be taken off? “Anything that could mold or mildew, or that can be winter damaged like life jackets, light covers, and isinglass curtains. If the Bimini can’t be covered, take that off.”
“When you change the oil, change the filter – once a year or about every 100 hours. Many customers do this during winterization, leaving fresh oil in the engine all winter long.” Diesel fuel will gel before the oil does, so an anti-gel additive is used.
Inside and out Winterizing means cleanup, wash, dry and heavily wax the hull, stainless-steel and metals. Waxing gives you the opportunity to check for hull damage or parts needing attention. A professional detailer will oversee all of this.
Engines, fuel & oil Removing/replacing belts and hoses – “If you do it yourself, you assume all the responsibility for what happens. For peace of mind, let a professional tackle these.”
When and where to start “Go to your local marina or service center and ask for assistance” if you’re not sure what to do. In the Great Lakes areas, start before the first freeze or around Labor Day.
In the Great Lakes, “…make sure to use a deicer in the water.”
Covers
Lastly, if it’s valuable to a thief, remove it. ★
DIY Winterizing Tips
The to-do list may include professional intervention or tasks easy enough to do yourself. However, no matter where you boat, the needs are similar including the preparation for freezing temperatures.
Batteries
One minute we’re prepping to drop anchor and the next minute we’re stowing the anchor to winterize. The common denominator is upkeep.
Prep in the fall, smile in the spring.
Boaters have a love/hate relationship with a five-letter word that borders on being a four-letter word — WATER. It’s marvelous for boating and swimming but leave it in the engine or other places and water becomes the nemesis for insurance claims and gnashing of teeth. Before buying dentures, here are some helpful tips from Duke Capel, Service Liaison of Radio Island Marina in Beaufort, North Carolina, to make winterizing easier to swallow.
“Drain the water tank (and head) completely and fill it with marine grade antifreeze. Make sure it goes through the shower heads and all the tubes. It’s nontoxic and can go into the water. Be certain that the raw water system’s seacock is closed when pumping it out, then lubricate the seacock for a tight seal.”
“The cooling system in the engine pulls the water in and out. Any water left in the water cup separator needs dumping.” Then spray under the cowling with a corrosion inhibitor spray.
“Make sure everything in the boat is dry before covering the boat.” A regular boat cover “…will hold too much ice and water, so use a special winter cover or shrink wrap the boat.”
RIPALIPOFCOURTESYPHOTOBOTTOMICOVER;OFCOURTESYPHOTOTOP
SAFETY FIRST BY HELEN AITKEN LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 27
“Install a trickle charger to the batteries left on or taken off the boat. The batteries stay charged and are powered like having shore power. If the boat stays in the water, (with an emergency) the float switch will turn the bilge pump on.”
“We recommend using Ethanol free gasoline, keeping it 90% full so that gasses can expand. Then pour a stabilizer directly into the fuel port to extend the shelf life.”
If these items are too complicated to complete on your own, schedule a professional appointment and consider taking the Engine Maintenance Course offered by America’s Boating Club. It includes a ten-week class and direct learning for less than $100, AMERICASBOATINGCLUB.ORG.
Electronics “Keep the electronic screens covered because UV rays will damage the surface. Behind them use a corrosion blocker.” This is also good for circuit panels, even standing rigging. It’s non-toxic, won’t hurt most plastics or rubber, and adds a protective film.
HELEN AITKEN is a boating writer, photographer and former science educator from eastern North Carolina. She loves classic wooden boats, is an America’s Boating Club member and plays in the Intracoastal Waterway.
Sweep, vacuum and remove food or trash. Add bars of Irish Spring soap to discourage pests from nesting, and place desiccant canisters or hanging bags in storage areas to remove excess moisture.
Overnight cruises aren’t limited to summer either, thanks to public lands that offer boat-in campsites. Although the marinas might have closed up shop for the season, you can drop the hook in a postcard-pretty cove or nose into a secluded beach for an evening of hot cider, s’mores and falling asleep to the sound of waves lapping the shore. For example, in Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, 18 islands allow camping. Sixteen can only be accessed by private boat, offering an extra measure of solitude and adventure. These islands comprise a spectacular wilderness
When I was young, summer ended with Labor Day weekend. Kids were back in school, the Door County summer resort we loved shuttered its dining room and cabins, and Lake Michigan’s beaches grew cool, windswept and lonely.
Labor Day Isn’t the End
Early September was the time to button up your boat for the long Great Lakes offseason. Unless you were a serious angler with a nearby launch ramp, you were likely resigned to the fact you’d wait roughly eight months to spend time on or near the water again. Fortunately, in recent years, we’ve discovered that we can extend our water life beyond that old line in the sand. Our favorite destinations have learned that as well. In Door County, for example, fall crowds rival and even surpass their summer counterparts, and tourist season now runs through the holidays. What does that mean for boaters? If you are able to launch your own boat, your season can last until winter officially locks up the lakes. Otherwise, with a little creativity and an adventurous spirit, you can still enjoy watersports, coastal festivities and beloved destinations ablaze with color. Day cruises Marinas might be closed for the season, but boat ramps are not. If you have a trailerable boat, fall is the perfect time to go for a cruise. Fewer people are around. You won’t have to wait in line at the ramp, white-knuckle your way through frantically busy waterways, or attempt to drop the hook in a cove so filled with boats you could walk across the water. Instead, you’ll be on the water in minutes, ready to enjoy an outing filled with leaf-peeping and bird-watching (after all, it’s migration time) rather than blaring music and revving engines. Bring a camera and binoculars, and if you enjoy fishing, bring angling gear as well. Fish will be on the move, and biting, as winter approaches. Keep an eye on the forecast, and be sure to pack multiple layers of clothing as well as rain gear. In addition, verify that your running lights are in good working order, and pack flashlights or headlamps as well. That way, you’ll be prepared for the season’s earlier nightfall — or if you simply want to experience stargazing in that crisp, clear air.
FACEBOOK;ISLANDSAPOSTLEOFCOURTSEYPHOTOCAMPING
Boat camping
WIKIPHOTOBOATFALL BENEATH THE SURFACE BY HEATHER STEINBERGER 28 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Five ways to extend your boating lifestyle into fall — on and near the water.
Waterfront communities are an integral part of the boating lifestyle. Even if you aren’t heading out on the water, you can enjoy being near it at one of the Midwest’s popular fall festivals.
of boreal forests, cliffs, caves and beaches. You’ll find plenty of protected anchorages with easy, short passages between them. On smaller boats, dry storage is limited, so make sure to pack clothing, sleeping bags, towels and pillows in dry bags and dry boxes (such as Pelican cases). If you’re taking advantage of dispersed camping rather than an established campsite, you’ll also want to bring collapsible camp chairs and a small folding table.
Transitional kayaks fall in the 14- to 17-foot range, and touring kayaks are 16-foot-plus. Both have forward and rear bulkheads, which give you more storage and provide added protection in the event of a Canoeingcapsize.andstand-up
FACEBOOK;ISLANDSAPOSTLEOFCOURTSEYPHOTOKAYAK BAYSTURGEONDESTINATIONOFCOURTESYSKELETONS
In Door County, Sturgeon Bay Harvest Fest and Baileys Harbor AutumnFest are in September. October is the month for the Door County Fall Lighthouse Festival, Pumpkin Patch Festival in Egg Harbor and Sister Bay Fall Fest.
Kayaks are easy to transport and launch, they offer unfettered access to the shallow bays and rivers that are off-limits to larger watercraft, and with the right gear, you can enjoy them well into the fall. They fall into three categories: recreational, transitional and touring. Recreational kayaks, which range from 9-1/2 to 16 feet in length, are designed for sheltered waters such as inland lakes and coastal areas within 50 to 100 yards of shore.
Festivals
Across Lake Michigan in Grand Traverse Bay, you can enjoy Harvest Days on the Leelanau Peninsula and Happy Apple Days in downtown Traverse City.
F. Scott Fitzgerald perhaps said it best when he noted,“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” ★
paddleboarding are options as well. If you don’t own a kayak, canoe or SUP, check with your nearest outfitter; they may offer rentals on fall weekends as long as the weather cooperates.
HEATHER STEINBERGER is an award-winning writer/editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 25 years.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM SEPTEMBER 2022 29
And in the Lake Erie Shores and Islands, there are nearly 20 different events from which to choose, including HalloWeekends at Cedar Point; the Wine, Art and Food Faire on Kelleys Island; Oktoberfest at Put-in-Bay, and so much more.
Boater’s ed Due to the lack of people on the water after Labor Day, fall is an excellent time to practice your boating skills. Two of the biggies: docking and man-overboard drills. Most of the stress and anxiety associated with boating involves departing from or returning to the dock. Even if you don’t need a slip at a marina, docking proficiency comes in handy if you have to visit a fuel dock or wish to make use of transient space at a waterfront hotspot. It doesn’t matter if you’re a newbie or a more experienced boater. Even in your own waters, conditions can change in a heartbeat, so extra practice is always worthwhile. In the case of man-overboard drills, practicing now could save someone’s life later. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, most MOB situations involve simple falls or ejections, and the vast majority of these accidents happen in calm water. So take this time to brush up on your own skills, and work with everyone on board so they understand their roles. Boating is more fun and relaxing if the whole crew feels comfortable and empowered. Paddling If you have a larger boat in a marina, the haul-out schedule determines when your boating season ends. That doesn’t mean you have to stop spending time on the water, however.
Watch the video at LAKELANDBOATING.COM! BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KEVIN KOENIG 30 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Powered with twin 600-hp Mercury V12 Verados the boat should have a top end above 60 mph which will make for a short trip to wherever the owner chooses to go, whether it be out to the fishing grounds, or just to the nearest sandbar for some fun in the sun with the family.
★
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 41’2” Beam: 12’ Draft: 3’10” Weight: 20,000 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 350 - 500 gals. Water Capacity: 55 gals. Max Power: 2 x Mercury V12 Verados 600 hp MSRP: Contact dealer FORMULABOATS.COM DEALERS Chicago Yacht Works CHICAGOYACHTWORKS.COM Lakeside Formula LAKESIDEFORMULA.COM Marine Tech Concepts MARINETECHCONCEPTS.COM
“It’s a new market we are going after,” says Scott Smith, marketing manager with Formula Boats. “We built some of these center consoles back in the 1970s, but now we are refocusing on them. We are building center consoles but with the Formula touch. That means great components, super engineering, superb tooling and everything else.”
Formula’s return to the world of center consoles is happening because the builder noticed market trends that showed longer cruises have gone a bit out of style, and customers want to be able to do shorter, easier trips with their boats. To that end, Formula introduced this new model at the Miami International Boat Show last February, and will debut it at this autumn’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The 387 will come in both a Fish and Sport edition. The Fish model is rod holder heavy, according to Smith, while the Sport version will have an entertainment-focused layout with more seating.
A return to old form for the builder. F ormula is perhaps best known for building stylish, sturdy and above all fast express cruisers that are popular from Long Island, Bahamas, to Long Island, New York. But what many Formula fans may not remember is that the builder once turned out many a center console, way back when Jimmy Carter was president and The Big Red Machine was a perennial mainstay in the World Series. And now Formula is taking a page from its history and joining the piping-hot center console market with this 387.
Formula 387 Center Console
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 28’5” Beam: 8’6” Draft: 2’10” Weight: 6,500 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 99 gals. Water Capacity: 34 gals. Power: Yamaha F250 XCB Base Price: $189,937 RANGERTUGS.COM DEALERS Reed Yacht Sales Grand Haven, MI; LaSalle, MI; Racine, WI REEDYACHTSALES.COM
BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KEVIN KOENIG “ LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 31
One of the things Reed likes so much about this model is that the salon is on the main deck, which creates excellent lines of sight when relaxing in that area either underway or at the dock. “It’s a nice place to sit and hang out with friends,” he says. “There’s also a convertible dinette and a galley — there’s just a lot to like on this boat when it comes to living and entertaining.”
“It’s a good boat for using those enclosed waterways to cruise in the North Channel in the summer.” says Reed. “It has a lot of interior volume for a boat this size so people can stay comfortable on longer trips.”
Ranger Tug 25
The 25 is the second smallest in the Ranger Tug line — only her sistership the 23 is smaller. However she comes so well kitted out that only a few options are available. She’s effectively a turnkey boat. “You can get the hull a different color if you like,” says Reed, “but really there are only about nine or 10 things you can add to this boat, because she already has so many cool features in her base package.”
The Ranger Tug 25 Luxury Addition is a small cruiser with a big punch. W e like to think of this boat as an RV for the water,” says Brent Reed, owner of Reed Yacht Sales in Grand Haven, Michigan. “You can really do a lot with her from a cruising standpoint, and it’s all in a package that is very trailerable.”
The Ranger 25 comes with a single screw Yamaha F250 XCB for poking through enclosed waterways, but it can also be equipped with an optional trolling motor if an owner wants to do some fishing, for say, some salmon or walleye in the Great Lakes, where these models have gained real popularity.
For a boat this size, the Ranger 25 can do a whole lot, from cruising to fishing to entertaining. She’s an excellent choice for any boater looking for a vessel that outpunches its weight. ★ Watch the video at LAKELANDBOATING.COM!
“These are great family-priced boats,” says Savannah’s founder Keith Sanders. “And they’re not only affordable, they’re easy to operate and unsinkable as well, plus we use very thick fiberglass to make them sturdy on the water. Our biggest thing at Savannah is price point and quality, that’s what we strive for.”
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 19’6” - 22’ Beam: 8’6” Draft: 9” - 13” Weight: 2000 - 2500 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 32 - 65 gals. Water Capacity: 55 gals. Max Power: 140 - 250 hp Base Price: $40,000 - $99,000 SAVANNAHBOATS.COM DEALERS Illinois PerformanceBoats IPBOATS.COM Savannah Boat Works
To that end, the new line of boats ranges from $40,000 at the entry point, up to $99,000 at the top end. Each dealership offers full financing, with ten-percent down with follow-up payments over a 36-month period. And many of the Savannah dealers will throw a free trailer in on the deal as well. That means a prospective buyer could potentially walk into a Savannah dealership, pick out a boat, go get a cup of coffee, and come back to find a boat on a trailer for him waiting to be taken home. In that sense, Savannah is very much selling a small slice of the American Dream.
Watch the video
LAKELANDBOATING.COM! BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KEVIN KOENIG 32 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Another way that Savannah is fostering a sense of optimism for Americans from all walks of life is through a prison-release deal it has worked out with the state of North Carolina. The company brings aboard non-violent offenders and teaches them how to build boats, with the potential for full-time employment later on, in an effort to keep recidivism rates low, and working-class people healthy, happy and busy. The system is a true boon for everyone involved, including the former inmates, the builder, Savannah’s customers and society at large. And what’s not to like about that? ★ at
North Carolina’s Savannah Boat Works has a new four-model lineup with a plethora of features and details to like, especially in a smaller and economical package. The series includes an SS19, SS21, 190 IS, and 220 IS. All of the boats have Savannah’s signature hybrid hull — part deep-V, part skiff — that makes these vessels ideal for inshore cruising, even when the wind kicks up and it gets a little snotty.
A new boat series from Savannah offers quality boating at affordable prices.
BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KEVIN KOENIG LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 33
Sea Ray SLX 260
One popular option on the SLX 260 is the Power Tower feature with an extended sunshade and optional Fusion Signature Series speakers and LED color-changing lighting, meaning this boat can be fully equipped for a party. The SLX 260 is powered by a Mercury MerCruiser 6.2L MPI ECT Bravo Three engine with SmartCraft Digital Throttle & Shift that produces a zippy top speed of 43 knots and a cruise of about 24 knots. Speeds that thrill to be sure, but are far from the only thing exciting about this revolutionary model.
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 25’5” Beam: 8’6” Draft: 3’5” Weight: 6,068 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 75 gals. Water Capacity: 14 gals. Power: MerCruiser 6.2L MPI ECT Bravo Three with DTS 350 hp Base Price: $169,000 SEARAY.COM DEALERS B&E Marine BEMARINE.COM Colony Marine COLONYMARINE.COM SkipperBud’s SKIPPERBUDS.COM Walstrom Marine WALSTROM.COM
“This launch not only sets a new benchmark for design, but further celebrates the advantages that a diverse workforce brings to the marine industry,” says Aine Denari, Brunswick Boat Group president. “Carrie and Kristin are rising stars in our industry, and I am thrilled to see their success and the success of this fantastic launch. We strongly value the significant benefits that our diverse senior leadership team brings.”
★ Watch the video at LAKELANDBOATING.COM!
The SLX 260 has myriad features bound to attract boaters everywhere, but which are particularly well suited to lakes. A large sunpad at the transom is an excellent place to collect some rays. More stowage has been added to this boat over her predecessors, for a total of 53 cubic feet of storage. The enhanced stowage includes a larger water-ski compartment in the cockpit sole, which certainly adds to the fun this boat is capable of.
Sea Ray’s SLX 260 is the brand’s first boat to be designed by an all-female team. A n exciting development in Knoxville, Tennessee, Sea Ray has launched the SLX 260 (and its sistership the SLX 260 Outboard), designed by women. Sea Ray senior design manager Carrie Fodor and Brunswick Boat Group senior industrial designer Kristin McGinnis penned this sporty and versatile addition to the builder’s popular SLX series, in what Sea Ray views as a major step forward in the marine industry for diversity, equity and inclusion.
BOAT TEST SAILFISHOFCOURTESYPHOTOS Sailfish276DC276DC 34 SEPTEMBER 2022 LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Much of that rise in popularity is due to an increase in features and performance improvements, turning fishing boats into comfortable, versatile pleasurecraft with plenty of creature comforts for family and friends.
BY CHUCK WARREN
LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 35
The Sailfish 276 DC does not fall into that category. Split personality.
While center and dual console boats have been widely used for years in fishing hotspots around the world, they have only become common more recently in the Great Lakes.
In many “multi-use” models, features like rod holders and baitwells can often look like an afterthought meant to give marketing departments the necessary means to lure a wider variety of buyers to the table.
36 SEPTEMBER 2022 LAKELANDBOATING.COM
On the port side, the rear-facing seat converts to a comfortable lounge or lays completely flat with a simple flip of the backrest, and lifting many of the seat bases uncovers lots of finished storage compartments and insulated coolers. Whether under a backrest, below a seat or in the floor, there is no lack of storage or coolers onboard the Sailfish 276 DC.
★ SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 27’ Beam: 9’1” Draft (hull only): 18” Weight: 7,050 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 177 gals. Water Capacity: 14 gals. Max Power: 400 hp Base Price:dealerContact SAILFISHBOATS.COM DEALERS Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales JBYS.COM North Shore Marina NORTHSHOREMARINA.COM MarinaSkipperBud’sDelIsle SKIPPERBUDS.COM SAILFISH276DC THE RIDE The standard features The aft cooler The roomy head with an electric toilet Easy mechanical access Standard windlass Watch the video at LAKELANDBOATING.COM! LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 37
Dual responsibility
The new Sailfish 276 DC can be a versatile day boat or a well-equipped fishing machine, and meets either need with great performance from one of the softest, smoothest hulls in the industry.
Designed to do the job
On a trip up to northern Michigan, I was lucky enough to tour the new Sailfish 276 DC in beautiful Bay Harbor. Walking out from the parking lot, the boat was easy to spot on the crowded dock.
The Sailfish 276 DC boasts incredible construction standards with no wood found anywhere in the boat. Products like Kevlar, carbon-fiber, closed-cell foam and fiberglass are used throughout the Sailfish, with a Coosa board transom and fiberglass-wrapped closed-cell foam stringers and Kevlar tying the important structural parts together.
Low maintenance
One of the things I liked immediately is that all of the boat’s parts and pieces appear to have been designed to do their job very well instead of just made to look curvy and cool. The hardtop that effectively covers the Sailfish 276 DC not only provides protection from the sun and rain, but it does so with plenty of headroom.
For those who want more “fish” than “family,” options like rocket launchers and in-floor rod holders can create the perfect package. But, that goes both ways. The boat includes plenty of real, usable rod holders while also providing enough cup holders to accommodate 16 umbrella drinks.
A walk-through transom door makes both swimming and fishing more fun while other features are specific to each use. The 30-gallon baitwell and huge fish boxes meet the needs of serious enthusiasts, while the rear cooler — accessible from the water — keeps refreshments within easy reach for swimmers.
The Sailfish is an attractive boat with a little bit of a classic appearance and refreshingly simple lines. The boat can be ordered in several optional hull colors or a standard white, but our test boat was finished in an eye-catching ice blue.
Aft, flip-down seating easily converts the spacious, unobstructed fishing cockpit into a comfortable social space with room to relax and interact. Lift the transom seat and you’ll find easy access to mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems that makes maintenance and upgrades a breeze. Nicely hidden behind the port console, a roomy, lockable head with electric toilet, 8-gallon holding tank and an opening porthole also provides room to change out of wet clothes. A 14-gallon freshwater tank feeds a transom shower and the bathroom sink, and also supplies the starboard-side galley sink in the cockpit.
The result is an incredibly strong, low maintenance boat. Also available with Mercury power, our test boat was equipped with twin Yamaha 200’s giving us the maximum of 400 horsepower. Already impressed with the quality and features of the 276 DC, I was in for a real surprise when we took the boat out for a spin. It was not the best day for a boat ride and the seas had begun to churn as we drove out into Little Traverse Bay. Although the boat handled beautifully as we cruised at 25 knots, the weather grew worse and we decided to head back.
The Sailfish’s VDS (variable degree stepped) hull was always incredibly soft and quiet — even when we were met with whitecaps topping 3-foot or better seas. The boat had no problem handling the bigger waves, and did so with none of the noise, shock or discomfort you would expect from a smaller boat in rough water.
Anyone looking for the most use out of a single boat would have a hard time finding a better option.
However, a flip here and tug there exposes seating options, hidden storage and extra comforts that turn the Sailfish into a terrific choice for tubing, anchoring up to enjoy the sun and sand, or sharing an evening of food and drinks while watching a gorgeous Great Lakes sunset.
The top also includes standard LED docking and spreader lights and storage for life jackets. The walk-through windshield is tall enough to protect the captain and crew and make conversation possible while cruising, and the walkway between the consoles can be easily closed off when the weather changes without chasing around after loose covers or fillers.
For those who want to chase steelhead and salmon or hit a favorite spot for walleye or perch, there is an abundance of traditional features that make the boat a great choice for fishing.
BOAT TEST OFCOURTESYPHOTOS WELLCRAFT 38 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
WELLCRAFT 355 Satisfying your needs. BY CAPT . TOM SERIO “I FEEL THE NEED, THE NEED FOR SPEED! YOW!”
There’s a lot of that kind of sentiment going on nowadays, thanks to the movie “Top Gun”. But look around, we have a generation of mid-somethings that have an insatiable appetite for all things speed related and need to satisfy these cravings in their daily lives. They are adventure junkies looking for that next great curl, or vertical offroad excursions or the natural high from high altitude hijinks. Now, adventure has been found at sea level with the new Wellcraft 355. Sure, you know the name, and yes, they are still around, known today for their line of blue-water bustin’ center console fishing machines. Wellcraft also built their name with the Scarab brand of go-fast boats. It didn’t hurt that their boats were featured on the famous TV show “Miami Vice”. By the looks of the 355, Wellcraft may very well be on their way to again carving a piece of history in the boating annals.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 39
ALL DECKED OUT
NEW IMAGE
The dash is well sized for twin 16” 8416 Garmin multi-function displays (don’t forget to add Active Captain and other Garmin features), thruster control, Mercury marine electronic throttles and joystick controller and more.
FIRST LOOK Seeing the 355 at the official unveiling recently in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, I was struck by the exterior styling, generous freeboard and enclosed pilothouse. With a low-profile look, reversed raked windshields and plumb bow, the 355 not only appears to be a hard-charging vessel, it is one. This boat was built with a purpose: to satisfy the need to get from Point A to Point B quickly. Wellcraft coins the 355 as their “commuter boat” line. There’s ample seating for 10 or more around the boat allowing for safe passage of the masses. But the 355 is oh so much more. The fully enclosed pilothouse can become fully open, thanks to the aft bulkhead door and tilt-up window. There’s a large side opening window next to the port helm seat and a sliding door to starboard. Overhead electric hatches and a sunroof panel bring in the light and the breeze.
There’s more to the 355 than just a cool boat. It’s also a re-imaging of this 60-year-old company.
40 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Forward are three helm seats, one to port, two to starboard at the helm. The outer starboard seat is next to the side door, allowing for easy access to lines and fenders so single-handling this boat is a breeze.
On deck, the bow area forward of the house has a generously sized three-person sunpad/lounger. Forward is an aft facing bench seat, which makes this an inviting gathering area. With walk-around decks, line and fender handling can be done safely. Wellcraft makes the port deck a bit narrower than the starboard to give some space back to the interior volume. Port and starboard side gates make boarding at the cockpit a breeze. You have options on the aft deck. Wellcraft designed a cockpit tow bar that has multiple func tions. It can prevent someone from falling on the outboards, tow a skier and also be used for fender storage (nice that someone thought of this). Or securely store air tanks for diving. Add the transom bench right in front of the storage or remove com pletely and go with the aft galley module. Point here is that you can design the 355 to your boating style.
Having been acquired by several companies
Below decks is a spacious cabin with a large double berth that extends to 6’ for sleeping (5’5” when closed), cushioned seat and TV. Surprisingly, there’s a separate shower stall in the head, a nice touch.
Inside is a layout that makes the 355 more than a day boat. A galley to port includes an undercounter fridge, stainless sink with cover, single burner cooktop and microwave. Across is an L-shaped dinette with fold-out table that doubles as an additional berth. Grey walnut wood finish and Fortezza flooring adorn the cabin throughout.
Salon headroom is 6’7”.
over the years, Group Beneteau took the reins of Wellcraft in 2014, and added them to their other holdings, including Four Winns, Scarab, Prestige, Lagoon and other recognizable brands, now all under one roof.
According to Nick Harvey, Wellcraft’s Brand Director, the focus of the 355 is to help take Wellcraft into the next century. “The world of adventure is seeing a hyper-growth of activity. People are looking for thrills and excitement,” said Harvey, “And they want adventure in boating, too,” he added. With that as the baseline, the 355 was born. To deliver an exhilarating yet safe and stable ride, Wellcraft called on naval architect firm Michael Peters Yacht Design to draw the hull. Chris Critchett, naval architect from Michael Peters, gave me some insight as to their thought process. “It’s a plumb bow design with a conservative shape, not a typical deep V,” Critchett explained. Deep V’s are suited for max speed but tend to roll in a sea way. The 355 is a steady boat even without a stabilization system (although a Seakeeper can be added).
Having good balance is essential. “Weight and shape are key on this boat, and we are very pleased with this hull,” added Critchett.
And pleased they should be as our sea trial on the 355 was very invigorating. Wellcraft Product Developer Martin Meyer was on the wheel putting the 355 through the paces, and he knew what to do. Powered by triple Mercury 350-hp four-stroke Verado outboards, our test numbers were pretty much in line with what Wellcraft published. Cruise along at 27.7 mph, 3500 RPM for a burn of 28 gph. At 10 mph you’ll burn 10 gph for 175 nm range. We did hit wide open in a 2-foot chop and saw 51.9 mph.
A flat ocean should yield a little higher speed. Either way, this hull performed true, tracked very well and felt stable underfoot. Leaning well into tight turns at speed, the padded helm seats keep you in place. Adding to the features are a hardtop roof rack for kayaks and boards, interior grab rails, forward light bar, teak decking, bow awning, water heater, gen set and a wrap or paint finish.
★ SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 38’10” Beam: 10’9” Draft: 4’6” Weight: 16,131 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 264 gals. Water Capacity: 42 gals Power (as tested): 3x Mercury Verdado 350 hp outboards Price (fully rigged): Approx. $700,000 WELLCRAFT.COM DEALERS Spring Brook Marina SPRINGBROOKMARINA.COM Onekama Marine & Lake Michigan Yacht Sales ONEKAMAMARINE.COM WELLCRAFT355 Low profile makes for an excellent river boat. Has a stout hull for rough lakes and ocean crossings. A fishing package adds rod holders, Watchwashdown.baitwell,thevideoat LAKELANDBOATING.COM! LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 41
Part of my conversation with Nick Harvey was to understand the “Why?”. With the pride of a new father and assuredness of someone who fully understands the goals, Harvey gave some insight to the new Wellcraft branding. “The core idea is that we built it to push the limits, to go anywhere, do anything, built with a purpose,” he said. Supporting their values, Harvey added that the 355 is “Powerful and authentic, built to last.” And he noted that they are not trying to be like other brands as there’s no comparison. From the “infujection” (infusion and injection) cored vacuum-bagged hull that’s bonded to the stringer grid during layup resulting in an exceptionally strong hull, to the speed and agility of a finely tuned running surface to the strength of the Beneteau Group brand that stands behind the name, Wellcraft has just introduced something exciting to the market. Get on and let it satisfy your need for speed and adventure.
WHY THIS NOW?
I
The company is now talking with boat builders and marina pedestal manufacturers to bring the system to market.
RITCHIECRAIGBYPHOTOLEFTSERVO/SHUTTLEWORTH;OFCOURTESYPHOTOTOP boats of
A Canadian company called VoltSafe has developed a new magnetic plug design that eliminates the traditional prong-and-socket configuration altogether, creating what it says is the safest shore power system in the world. Inspired by the magnetic power cords used on Apple laptops, VoltSafe invented (and subsequently patented) a high-voltage magnetic connection that can provide 30, 50 or 100 amp shore power — or even charge an electric boat — without risk of arcing or corrosion.
One of the realities of having electricity anywhere near water is that corrosion is almost inevitable, and that in turn can lead to short circuits. In the case of shore power systems, corrosion can cause serious fires if a connection arcs or overheats.
f you think you’re hearing about more new technology these days, you’re right. Solar panels, electric cars, virtual meetings and even cell phones were all once considered far-fetched ideas straight out of science fiction novels – and then went on to become part of everyday life. So what’s next?
Magnetic Shore Power Systems
42 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
“The plug will only let power flow once the outlet recognizes an exact electrical signature from the plug, and this happens in less than five milliseconds,” says VoltSafe CEO, Trevor Burgess. “So if you accidentally drop your plug in the water, it’s not going to pop all the breakers or electrocute anyone.”
Where boaters are concerned, the future is full of amazing new technologies. Care for a sneak peek? Here’s just a sample of what’s in development right now.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 43
Not everyone likes the look of a solar panel array. But what if the panels could just be painted on, and in any color you like? That’s the goal of researchers at the University of Toronto, who are developing paint-on solar panels using quantum dot solar cells. Quantum dots are tiny, light-sensitive grains small enough to be mixed into regular paint. They are more effective than traditional solar panels because they respond to a broader range of light wavelengths, and can be used to coat the entire vessel.
Hull Coatings Inspired by Shark Skin
In lab tests the new film proved so successful that Lufthansa has entered into a program to conduct real-world testing on one of its cargo jets. Initial results have been encouraging, meaning the drag-reducing film could make its way to market in the very near future.
the future Technology continues to evolve at lightning pace, and that’s great news for boaters. Curious what the future holds? Here’s just a sample of the new high tech we could be seeing on the water in the years ahead. by Craig Ritchie
ORIGNALDOMAIN;PUBLICPHOTOSSHARKANDPHOTOTOP TECHSPRAYWAGNEROFCOURTESYPHOTOPAINTING
Most boaters are familiar with stepped hulls, which use an irregular shape to break surface tension and increase performance. In Europe, German engineering firm BASF is achieving even greater results by replacing the single abrupt step with millions of much tinier ones.
Inspired by the way sharks can swim at high speeds for long distances with minimal effort, the company has developed a super-slippery film that’s covered with tiny, diamond-shaped structures inspired by the sandpaper-like denticles found on shark skin. This film can be applied to any hard surface in order to reduce drag and, as a result, significantly lower both fuel consumption and emissions.
Paint-On Solar Panels
Next-Gen Stabilizers
Foam seat cushions are made from oil, and with prices skyrocketing these days, boat builders are open to alternatives — like plant-based resins made from soybeans. The idea of using plant-based resins isn’t new. Ford first tried them a dozen years ago when it put soy-based foam in the seats of its 2008 Mustang. More recently, Toyota and BMW have also adopted plant-based resins. Canadian boat builder Campion Marine started using soy-based seat cushions in 2016, and won awards as a result. As oil prices continue to rise, it’s all the more likely other companies will begin using foam cushions made from soybeans.
SERVO/SHUTTLEWORTHOFCOURTESYPHOTO
The one knock against electric boats is that they have limited range and take a long time to recharge. Researchers at Purdue University (with Ford Motor Co.) are aiming to change that with a new type of power cable that could cut recharge times to just five minutes. Charging time is limited by the capacity of the cable linking the boat to the power source.
The Purdue team has developed a water-cooled cable that can take much higher voltage without overheating — allowing charge times 20 times faster than possible with a standard power cable. Patents are pending, and investors await.
PURDUEOFCOURTESYPHOTO
Let’s face it, it’s hard to have fun on the water when the boat’s pitching up and down in rough seas. But a new stabilizer technology aims to tame the waves by suspending the yacht above them.
44 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
RITCHIE;CRAIGBYPHOTOBOAT
The Martini concept — a collaboration between Servo Yachts and Shuttleworth Design — uses parallel pontoons to form a catamaran-style hull, with the passenger compartment suspended between them on shock-absorbing legs. Imagine a spider straddling a pair of matchsticks and you get the basic idea. As the pontoons heave up and down in the waves, their motion is absorbed by
PIXABAYPHOTOSOY
PIKEUNIVERSITY/JAKE
Even better, quantum dots are cheap, so they offer a low cost per watt of power — a key factor in making the technology commercially viable. The technology has already attracted interest — and investment — from major automakers.
Pushing more power through the cable speeds the process, but also generates more heat. Too much, and the cable melts.
Soybean Seat Cushions
Charge Your Electric Boat in 5 Minutes
Boats use a lot of insulation, whether it’s to make overnight accommodations more comfortable or to cut noise from the engine compartment. But traditional insulation isn’t the nicest stuff from an environmental perspective, leading a group of German scientists to experiment with more ecologically-friendly alternatives — like popcorn.
Insulation You Can Eat
Researchers at the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed a flexible, lightweight and paper-thin battery that can be rolled, folded, twisted or even ripped without impairing its ability to supply power. This allows the battery to be integrated into flexible structures like sails, or even a canvas top.
Combined with solar panels and an electric motor, the flexible batteries could theoretically give a boat unlimited range. ★
LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 45
Hiding Batteries in Sails
GÖTTINGENOFUNIVERSITYCOURTESYPHOTO SINGAPORE;NTUOFCOURTESYPHOTOBATTERY
Researchers at the University of Göttingen in central Germany say granulated popcorn is a great insulator that actually outperforms the stuff already in use. Further, popcorn can be formed into sheets or applied with a spray gun for easy installation.
Servo Yachts has tested a series of prototypes and is now partnering with Shuttleworth Design to develop a pair of luxury yachts — dubbed the Martini 6 and the Martini 7 — around the concept.
NAVICOOFCOURTESYPHOTOBOAT
It’s highly fire-resistant, costs pennies and is widely available. Best of all, at the end of its life popcorn insulation is fully biodegradable. You can even eat the stuff. the articulated legs, leaving the yacht itself level and still at all times. The unique suspension system is said to deliver the smoothest possible ride in rough seas.
Electric boats need big battery packs that can suck up a lot of interior space — especially on sailboats, where there isn’t much room to begin with. But a new flexible battery technology could eliminate that problem by allowing a vessel’s sails to store all the energy it needs.
Fun on and off the water. by Susan R. Pollack LakeBurlington&Champlain 46 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Or, maybe you’ll glimpse a member of the band Phish hanging out in City Hall Park, not far from where the legendary rockers got their start at the University of Vermont in 1983.
Ranked 13th largest in area of U.S. freshwater lakes, Lake Champlain is substantially smaller than any of the Great Lakes. But it does top Lake Erie in both average and maximum depths (64 feet and 400 feet, respectively), according to the Lake Champlain Committee, a nonprofit citizens group.
You’ll surely see folks of all ages slurping Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream at the Church Street storefront or on the factory tour in nearby Waterbury.
“Lake Champlain is a natural treasure, an amazing and majestic part of the world tucked between Vermont’s Green Mountains and the Adirondacks in New York,” says Jeff Lawson, marketing vice president for the Lake Champlain Chamber. “Burlington sits at the widest part of the lake and faces west, which not only makes for incredible sunsets but makes us really connected to the lake.”
Antique & Classic Boat Society’s Annual Meeting and International Boat Show Fort Ticonderoga
All that, and much more, is on tap for the hundreds of boat buffs attending the Antique & Classic Boat Society’s 45th Annual Meeting and 20th International Boat Show, Sept. 5-10, in Burlington, a progressive coastal city of about 43,000 with a hip, college-town vibe. It’s located in northern Vermont, less than two hours from Montreal in Quebec, Canada. With beautiful sunsets and waterfront views, Burlington revolves around Lake Champlain, an historic, 120-mile waterway that spans two states (Vermont and New York) and the U.S./Canadian border. It has been called “The Great Warpath,” having served as the setting for most of the major conflicts that defined early North American history, according to Gene Porter, the event’s co-chair. To show off the waterway, the ACBS Lake Champlain chapter is hosting multi-day vintage boat pre-cruises to Burlington from both Montreal and New York. Boaters will cruise in the north through the Chambly Canal, which connects the Richelieu and St. Lawrence rivers to Lake Champlain, and, in the south, the Champlain Canal, which connects with the Hudson River. For details and rates, check ACBS.ORG/2022-INTERNATIONAL-BOAT-SHOW/.
“The Sixth Great Lake”
BURLINGTON;HELLOLEFT):TOPFROM(CLOCKWISEOFCOURTESYPHOTOS FORTWEBSITE;VERMONTHELLOFACEBOOK;BURLINGTONBEN&JERRY’S BURLINGTONHELLOFACEBOOK;TICONDEROGA
And keep your eyes peeled while cruising Lake Champlain, Burlington’s stunning focal point: if you’re lucky, you may catch sight of Champ, the mythic sea monster that has figured in local lake lore – and the occasional fuzzy photo – for centuries. Pundits have dubbed it America’s version of Scotland’s Loch Ness monster.
LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 47
Lake Champlain boasts a storied battle history, including the Battle of Fort Ticonderoga in 1775, the first American victory of the Revolutionary War. Its hero, Ethan Allen, and his Green Mountain Boys, along with Benedict Arnold (before he turned traitor), captured the fort from the British, securing the strategic passageway north to Canada and acquiring valuable weapons for the Continental Army. The freshly restored fort is in New York, across the lake from Burlington.
For a brief period in 1998, Lake Champlain experienced national notoriety as the “Sixth Great Lake” when government legislation made it eligible for Federal research funds. When the move proved controversial, Congress rescinded the designation after just 18 days, though the lake retained its funding eligibility.
Y ou might see celebrity senator Bernie Sanders tooling around Burlington in his Subaru. The former eight-term mayor is often spotted in Vermont’s largest city when he’s not in Washington D.C.
Old World In the north end of Burlington, in a 294-acre park on the Winooski River, the Ethan Allen Homestead, circa 1787, offers a look at 18th-century life and the Green Mountain Boys, some of whom were Allen’s cousins.
48 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Bike
Ethan Allen Homestead Local Motion Island Ferry Church MarketplaceStreet
Burlington Harbor Marina and Waterfront Park
“Over 200 years forts and fleets were built and lost, and what happened on this lake determined the history of our nation,” proclaims registration material for the Antique & Classic Boat Society’s 2022 International Boat Show. It’s taking place Sept. 9-10 at the new Burlington Harbor Marina (the meeting host) and Burlington Community Boathouse. The adjacent Waterfront Park will showcase local artists and crafters, vintage boating supplies, a collection of historic racing sailboats and Vermont delicacies.
WEBSITEHOMESTEADALLENETHANFACEBOOK;FERRYBIKEBILLONASILL;ILMPT.ORG;ZERO;
Activities, including boat and gear rentals, may be arranged from the Burlington waterfront. The boat show marinas, as well as Perkins Pier and the Ferry Dock Marina, offer rental boat slips and moorings.
A Boater’s Paradise Spreading across 490 square miles and 14 miles across at its widest point, Lake Champlain is home to 71 islands. Vermont’s Inland Sea (also known as the Northeast Arm), the Lake Champlain Islands and the ancient Chazy Fossil Reef on Isle La Motte are also worthy excursions for boaters.
■ Find boat show details at ACBS.ORG/2022-INTERNATIONAL-BOAT-SHOW
Chazy Fossil Reef Spirit of Ethan Allen
An abundance on attractions
FOURTWENTYMIKEFACEBOOK;MUSEUMMARITIMEVRBO;LEFT)TOPFROM(CLOCKWISEOFCOURTESYPHOTOS
LAKELANDBOATING.COM SEPTEMBER 2022 49
When not cruising Lake Champlain, visitors may walk, run or ride bikes alongside it, enjoying scenic water views and cool breezes. The Island Line Trail runs 14 miles along the coast from Burlington, then crosses the lake to the Champlain Islands via the narrow Colchester Causeway.
Extending out into Lake Champlain, the causeway is a former railroad bed turned 4-mile gravel path (bike or walking) with great views of the water and the Green Mountains. Local Motion, a nonprofit cycling organization, operates the Island Line Bike Ferry that transports cyclists and pedestrians across “the Cut,” a 200-foot gap in the causeway that allows boats to pass through.
Don’t miss Lake Champlain Maritime Museum in Vergennes, which focuses on underwater archeology, including a video of Benedict Arnold’s sunken gunboat, Spitfire, as it lies today, 250 years later, on the lake bottom. Also appealing, on the western shore of Lake Champlain, is Essex, N.Y.., a preserved village of Greek Revival and Federal architecture that’s on the National Register of Historic Places.
Today, Lake Champlain is a lively playground for pleasure-boaters — paddle, sail or motor — and water sports such as paddle-boarding, kitesurfing, tubing, water-skiing, wakeboarding and windsurfing.
Beloved by locals, Burlington Greenway Bike Path, the trail’s southern leg, is an easy 8-mile paved path that runs along the shore of Lake Champlain with hidden beaches, rocky ledges for sunbathing and hiking trails along the way.
On the shore of Lake Champlain, Shelburne Farm is a 1,400-acre working farm, forest, and National Historic Landmark. The porch of the 19th-century inn is a popular place for cocktails.
For Lake Champlain information, check out HELLOBURLINGTONVT.COM
Lake MaritimeChamplainMuseum
★ ■
A trail network for hiking, biking, paddling and bird-watching winds through the Intervale. Whether you’re in the Burlington area as a boater or landlubber, Lake Champlain offers an abundance of attractions both on and off the water.
Elsewhere in Burlington, Church Street Marketplace, a fourblock, brick-paved pedestrian mall, is downtown central with 75 shops, cafes, bars, craft breweries, bakeries and art galleries. Check out Common Deer, showcasing American- and Vermont-made goods from 500 makers — everything from candles, soaps and towels to jewelry, puzzles and purses.
Visitors also may join fishing charters — Lake Champlain is a top spot for smallmouth bass — or scenic tours and sunset cruises aboard the Spirit of Ethan Allen, named in honor of the Revolutionary War hero and a founder of Vermont. Nearby on the waterfront, ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, is a hands-on science and nature museum and site of the event’s welcome reception. One of the exhibits examines the mystery surrounding the lake’s elusive sea monster, Champ — sightings are taken seriously in these parts.
The famous Vermont Teddy Bear got its start from a cart on Church Street in 1981. Today, you can visit the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory in Shelburne, about 20 minutes from downtown. It’s one mile from the renowned Shelburne Museum featuring an eclectic collection of American folk art, including vintage circus memorabilia, quilts, duck decoys, large wind-up toys and Impressionist paintings. The collections are housed in a village-like setting of 39 buildings, 25 of them historic New England structures. They include a lighthouse, jail, covered bridge and even Ticonderoga, a 220-foot sidewheel steamboat.
Nearby, Burlington’s Intervale, an agricultural community devoted to sustainable land use, is home to nine organic farms that supply fresh produce and flowers to local markets, restaurants and consumers.
PORT OF CALL 50 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 51
TOURISMCOUNTYWAYNEOFCOURTESYPHOTO
A Li le Town with a Big Personality
A fun town with a big boating esence, Sodus Point is a boater's paradise situated on a beautiful bay on the southern sh es of Lake Ontario. ough the town may be small, it is vi ant. As Yoda would say: “Size ma ers not.” by Margaret Steiss POINTSODUS LakeOntario SodusBay
TOURISMCOUNTYWAYNEOFCOURTESYPHOTO
Sodus Point, New York, is bordered by Lake Ontario and Sodus Bay — one of the largest bays on Lake Ontario. As a natural harbor it was an ideal place for both shipping and defense; even pirates sheltered here. There are two possible sources for the town’s name: Either a native word meaning “gleam on the water,” or an Iroquois word meaning “land of silver waters.” Whichever origin you like best, they are both accurate.
There is plenty of history to learn about in this small town. During the War of 1812, when it appeared that Sodus Point was not going to be attacked, the militia — most of whom were not well trained — were dismissed. Only for a small force to assemble the next day as the British came in orderly procession in the night, lighting their way with lanterns, which the Americans shot out, effectively leaving the British in the dark.
POLETOTEMANDSUPSTEISS;MARGARETBYPHOTOSUITBATHING
52 SEPTEMBER 2022 LAKELANDBOATING.COM
A town of stories
OUTFITTERSBAYSODUSOFCOURTESYPHOTOS
Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum Sodus LighthouseBayMuseumWaterfun
Looking toward Charles Point LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 53
Duringablaze.thetime of abolition, Sodus Point was a major stop on the underground railroad. One captain, George Carlock, would pick up escaped slaves from a rowboat and transport them to Canada in his schooner Freedom Trader, along with his official cargo of lumber and coal.
The British retreated, returning in the daylight to destroy stores, plunder and set buildings
Lighthouse and Chimney Bluffs
As early as the 1850s, Sodus Point became a commercial port as Sodus Point and Southern Railroad company began construction on a rail line that would bring coal from Pennsylvania to Sodus Point. A heavy dock and trestle were built and later reinforced over the years. By the mid 1960s however, boats were being built that were more efficient, and in 1967 the facility was closed. In 1971 work was started on dis mantling the trestle but a fire ended up completing the job. The site is now home to the Sodus Marina, which offers tran sient slips, a lounge, fitness room and an outdoor swimming pool for members and visitors. If you are hungry, it is just a short walk up the street to the Franklin House Tavern. This friendly local estab lishment is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the visit. Popular with locals, it is friendly and the food is excellent. About a half mile away, another place with a reputation for excellent food is The Bay Street Restaurant. One of the best ways to learn about the history of the area is to visit the Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum. Housed in the former lighthouse keeper’s residence, it is run by the local historical society. Displays tell the history of the area as well as the lighthouse itself, and there are many marine artifacts. You can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse, but be warned, it can be challenging. The first lighthouse was built in 1825 and replaced in 1871. Over the years sand and silt deposits pushed back the shoreline for nearly a mile, rendering the lighthouse no longer effective. A new lighthouse was needed, and the current lighthouse was built in 1938 at the end of an 800-foot pier. For years the lighthouse keepers had to trudge, at night, almost a mile from their home to the new lighthouse in all types of weather. This lasted to the mid 1940s, when the lighthouse was automated. The last keeper retired in 1953. After you tour the museum, check out the grounds. There are some beautiful floral displays, maintained by the local horticultural society, who also maintain other spots around town. The view from the park of the beach, the new lighthouse and Chimney Bluffs is spectacular. If you are in town on a summer Sunday, the museum
FACEBOOKHOUSEFRANKLINOFCOURTESYPHOTOBOTTOMLANDING;LEONEOFCOURTESYPHOTOMIDDLETOURISM;COUNTYWAYNEOFCOURTESYPHOTOTOP
For many years, Sodus Point has been a summer playground. In the early part of the 20th century visitors would arrive by trolley, train and steamship to enjoy a dance hall, bowling alley, theater and Sodus Point itself.
Fishing is excellent whether you fish in the bay or on the lake. Some of the species encountered are northern pike, walleye, yellow and white perch, rock bass as well as several types of trout and salmon. You can fish from the shore, your personal boat or take one of the fishing charters offered.
Sodus Point Beach Park
The trolley and steamships are long gone as are many of the businesses and buildings of the time, but swimming, boating, fishing and relaxing are still favorite pastimes and people flock to Sodus Point for summer fun, mostly centered on the water.
In the early 1800s, a thriving industry in Sodus Point was ice harvesting. The ice needed to be between 10-16 inches thick, and would then be stored in either commercial or private ice houses for use in the summer months, to be used in railcars to keep produce and perishables fresh as they were being shipped as well as in the dining cars. Ice was also needed for hotels, restaurants and private residences in Sodus Point. You can still see a remaining ice house structure on Charles Point, which is now used as a community center.
Sodus Bay Outfitters
If you have something larger and with power in mind, check out Krenzer Marine where you can rent pontoon boats. They are located on both sides of Greig Street, which is the main business street. They also sell both new and used boats as well servicing and transporting boats, and have a marine shop for supplies. The shop also carries a few gift items, mostly with a nautical theme. The owner’s wife buys them on her travels and sells them in the shop — at excellent prices.
POINTSODUSHISTORICOFCOURTESYPHOTOSSIDEBAROUTFITTERS;BAYSODUSOFCOURTESYPHOTOKAYAKPAMATAT;TOURISM/KENCOUNTYWAYNEOFCOURTESYPHOTOBEACH 54 SEPTEMBER 2022 LAKELANDBOATING.COM
All sorts of boating is popular on the bay. At Sodus Bay Outfitters you can rent kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, stand up paddleboards and bicycles. The store also offers groceries, clothing and gifts.
Speaking of accommodations, you will not find any big chain hotels nearby. There are, however, plenty of B&Bs and cottages if you’re not staying aboard your own boat. Ice Ice Baby
For more gift or souvenir purchases The Points Mercantile is right across the street. If you don’t mind going farther afield there is Pop’s House of Country Collectables, and for unique pottery check out Lukacs Studios. Throughout Sodus Point and Sodus Bay there are quite a few marinas, many that offer boat rentals as well as transient docking. The pleasant Sodus Bay Yacht Club is just a short walk off the main street. Right next to it is the Sodus Bay Junior Sailing Association, which attracts more than just locals. A lady staying at my accommodations was in town from several hours away for the two weeks her son was part of the sailing camp.
A summer playground
There are some beautiful natural scenery and trails to wander, including well-known Chimney Bluffs State Park. The Bluffs were formed from eroded drumlins shaped by glaciers, and some of the sharp pinnacles rise 150 feet above the shore. The 597-acre park is a year-round destination for hiking, picnicking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Ruggedly imposing, the bluffs are a true landmark — during prohibition smugglers would even land on the shore of the bluffs with liquor from Canada.
WWW.KRENZERMARINE.COM 8495 GREIG ST., SODUS POINT, NY 14555 • (315) 483-6986 Chaparral Boats • Robalo Boats Cruisers Yachts • Starcraft • Sylvan Pontoons
Closer to town is the Macyville Woods Nature Preserve. It includes both wooded areas and wetlands. The trail is about a mile long and includes old trees and the Malt Marsh, named after the Sodus Point Malt House which was once owned by the Genesee Brewing company. One of the trees you will see is the Macy Tree, a massive old oak believed to be at least 250 years old. Small, but inviting All that hiking and boating can work up an appetite. Try out Six50 on the Bay with a view of the water from both an upper and lower deck. For more picnic style dining, there is Hots Point, particularly known for its unque but delicious ice cream flavors. A favorite and lively spot is Captain Jack’s Goodtime Tavern. A large establishment with both indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the water, it is particularly lively and busy on weekends when the upper bar's band draws a good crowd. On the 4th of July weekend the bartenders work especially hard with no time off. Because of this, “Blow Off Day” was started in 1990, when locals take the Wednesday after the fourth off to give their bartenders a party. This event is entirely on water — so you’ll need a boat or to be a guest on one. Boats tie up in tandem at one of the many sandbars on the bay. It has grown over the years and is quite the local party. One of the things that strikes you most about this little town — apart from its waterfront fun and local lore — is how friendly the people are. You walk down the street and people say good morning or evening, or just a friendly “hello.” Sodus Point is not only beautiful and fun, it is a true natural gem and well worth the visit. ★
TOURISMCOUNTYWAYNEOFCOURTESYPHOTOS Resources Katlynn Marine KATLYNNMARINE.COM Krenzer Marine KRENZERMARINE.COM Martin’s Tidesides Marine MARTINSTIDESIDESMARINE.COM Sodus Marina 315-483-6947 Sodus Point Visitor’s Center SODUSPOINT.INFO Wayne County Tourism WAYNECOUNTYTOURISM.COM Chimney Bluffs Captain GoodtimeJack'sTavern LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 55
For those who love to swim there is Sodus Point Beach Park — a beautiful sandy beach right beside the pier that leads to the lighthouse. There is a pavilion for picnics, a concession stand and washrooms for changing before your walk through town. But boating and lakeside fun aren’t the only activities.
The gateway to North Michigan’s Chain O’ Lakes. S ituated along the western shores of scenic Elk Lake in Northern Michigan, Elk Rapids Marina provides seasonal and transient slips with a host of other offerings to kick off your adventure in Michigan’s famed Chain O’ Lakes — the only marina located on Elk Lake with access to the inlandPurchasedlakes.
by Susie and Lewis Cooper in January of 2021, the former Elk River Marina got a rebrand, remodel and new year-round parts and service department. Today, the old service building located on-site at the marina is a remodeled fullservice pro shop and coffee shop called the DAM Shop — named after the hydroelectric dam that separates the marina and town from Lake Michigan.
In addition to dockage, the first-class marina offers boat rentals, new and used boat sales, gas dock services, a parts and service department and summer and winter storage options — a one stop shop for Northern Michigan boaters.
Caffeinate before heading out on inland adventures, or stop and fill up at the DAM Food Truck, a tasty addition that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week.
The marina recently acquired X Shore, a Swedishmanufactured 100% electric boat line, and has partnered with London-based Aqua superPower to create a fast-charging network in the region. “An exciting opportunity to be on the forefront of the future of the boating industry,” adds Klein.
Elk Rapids Marina
★
MARINA WATCH BY ABBY THORPE ELK RAPIDS MARINA 118 Bridge Street Elk Rapids, MI, 231-264-950049629 ELKRAPIDSMARINA.COM AMENITIES Transient slips: Y Pump-out: N Gas: Y Diesel: N Lifts: Y Launch ramp: Y (public) Engine repair: Y Hull repair: Y Marine store: Y Restaurant: Y Showers: N Laundry Facility: N 56 SEPTEMBER 2022 LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Elk Rapids Marina offers a breathtaking location with plenty of options to explore. “Elk Lake has access to the famous Torch Lake via Torch River, approximately a 40 minute trip,” explains sales and marketing coordinator Mary Kate Klein. “Elk Rapids is surrounded by water and there aren’t too many places you can go where you won’t catch a glimpse of the inland lakes or Lake Michigan.”
LAKESHORE LIFE BY ABBY THORPE ADDRESS 5191 N Benson Road Fountain, MI 49410 SPECS Bedrooms: 4 Baths: 3.5 Square Footage: 2,451 Acreage: .97 Price: $875,000 CONTACT Andrea WoodlandColdwellCrossmanBankerSchmidt616.218.0267 ANDREACROSSMAN.COM 58 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Built of native Michigan pine logs, this 2,451 square foot home is built to last, with attention given to every detail. The open concept kitchen and dining room invites guests and family to enjoy time together during meals, while the spacious master suite includes a private exterior deck to further enjoy the views and quiet of nature.
Fountain, MI Country living on the lake. N estled in the woods in Mason County, Michigan, this breathtaking custom Maple Island log home will make you feel right at home as soon as you walk through the door. The large great room forms the social center of the home, with soaring ceilings offering plenty of space and light. The first thing to catch your eye as you walk through the door is a beautiful wood-burning floor to ceiling stone fireplace perfect for cozying up to and enjoying the wooded escape in fall or winter. Large windows flood the home with light and invite family and friends to explore the beautiful natural outdoors, with views of serene Ford Lake at the end of the gently sloping backyard. A large, newly resurfaced Trex deck spans the entire rear of the home, providing the perfect space to enjoy a morning cup of coffee, afternoon relax or al fresco dinner, all while taking in the beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings.
An additional three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms provide plenty of space for family and friends. Located just 30 minutes from both Manistee and Ludington, this secluded retreat located on .97 acres along Ford Lake is ideal as a summer escape, to enjoy the colors and crisp onset of fall, or for a winter adventure in the woods. Perfect as a full-time family home or vacation residence, this warm, inviting log home is only rivaled by its incredible natural surroundings, designed to maximize fun on Ford Lake. ★
LIFELAKESHORE ADVERTISERS!OURSUPPORTPLEASE LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 59 ONEKAMA MARINE, INC. Onekama, MI • (231) www.onekamamarine.com889-5000 LAKE MICHIGAN YACHT SALES Bay Harbor, MI • (231) www.lakemichiganyachtsales.com439-2675 Wellcraft Fisherman202Four Winns H4 OB ON ORDER! IN STOCK!IN STOCK! Riviera 4600 Sport Yacht
FIVE LOCATIONS BLUE: C100 M70 CHRIS-CRAFTMONTEREYBOATS BOATS 2022 DC 246 2022 LAUNCH 27 2022 378 SS 2022 LAUNCH 25 GT2022 298 SS 2022 CALYPSO 24 2022 278 SS2022 28 XS PURSUIT 2022 DC 326 BENETEAU POWERBOATS 2022 ANTARES 11 2022 FLYER 8 SPACEDECK2021 GRAN TURISMO 36 AVAILABLE NOW! 2022 FLYER 9 SUNDECK AVAILABLE NOW! AVAILABLE FALL! AVAILABLE NOW! AVAILABLE NOW! AVAILABLE SOON! AVAILABLE SOON! AVAILABLE SOON! AVAILABLE SOON! NAUTICSTAR
1989 CARVER 48 $190,000CALIFORNIAN 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 • PJ Tamer: (262) 424-9627, Pj@centerpointesales.com • KENOSHA: 21-56th Street, Kenosha, WI, (888) 992-2487 • Mike Montilino: (612) 419-3772, Mike@centerpointesales.com WWW.CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM OR CALL (888) 9-YACHTS 2002 GRAND ALASKAN 64 $749,999 1988 VANTARE 58 MY $224,500 2019 CHRIS-CRAFT 28 GT $240,000 1992 OCEAN ALEXANDER 46 $229,900 2007 FORMULA 330 SS $125,000 2017 BENETEAU GT 461985$660,000MAIORA 55 $139,000 1990 HATTERAS 48 $225,000 2007 MERIDIAN 368 MY $239,995 2014 REGAL 28 $99,999EXPRESS 2014 REGAL 2000 ESX $39,989 BROKERAGE
WWW.BAYMARINE.NET • SALES@BAYMARINE.NET Boat!YourSellLetUs SeasonedContactOneofOurBrokersToday!
66’ 2022 Riviera Belize 66 Daybridge call 66’ 2021 MCY 66 call 64’ 1984 Skipperliner $699,000 59’ 2003 Carver 570 Voyager Pilothouse $575,000 58’ 2011 Riviera 5800 Sport Yacht $875,000 58’ 2009 Tiara Yachts 5800 Sovran $625,000 54’ 2018 Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht $1,575,000 54’ 2022 Riviera Belize 54 Daybridge call 54’ 2013 Sea Ray 540 Sundancer $789,999 53’ 1979 Hatteras 53 Yacht Fisherman $80,000 51’ 2019 Cranchi E 52S Evoluzione $1,299,000 50’ 2022 Riviera 505 SUV call 50’ 1986 Ocean Alexander 50 Pilothouse $275,000 48’ 2018 Riviera 4800 Sport Yacht $1,350,000 45’ 2022 Sabre 45 Salon Express call 45’ 1995 Bayliner 4587 Motoryacht $109,000 44’ 2021 Riviera 445 SUV $1,050,000 44’ 1999 Baja 442 $115,000 43’ 2023 Sabre 43 Salon Express call 43’ 2008 Cranchi Mediterranee 43 $129,999 42’ 2014 Viking 42 Sport Coupe $775,000 41’ 2013 Formula 400 SS $359,000 41’ 2004 Sea Ray 390 Motor Yacht $249,500 39’ 2010 Sea Ray 390 Sundancer $299,999 38’ 2010 Regal 3760 SportYacht $209,999 38’ 1983 Chris Craft Catalina 381 .................... $34,500 38’ 1996 Baja 38 Special ..................................... $79,999 37’ 2023 EdgeWater 370CC..........................................call 37’ 1993 Sea Ray 370 Sundancer $59,000 37’ 2016 Formula 37 Cruiser $359,000 37’ 2006 Cruisers Yachts 370 Express $149,000 34’ 2001 Sea Ray 340 Sundancer $90,000 34’ 2023 EdgeWater 340CC call 34’ 2002 American Tug 34 $279,000 33’ 2022 Crevalle 33 CSF call 32’ 1995 Wellcraft Martinique 3200 $29,999 32’ 2023 EdgeWater 325CC call 32’ 2002 Sea Ray 320 Sundancer $69,999 31’ 1987 Tiara Yachts 3100 $65,000 31’ 1989 Sea Ray 300 Sundancer $24,500 28’ 2023 EdgeWater 280CC call 28’ 2023 EdgeWater 280CX call 28’ 2017 Axopar 28 T-Top Cabin $159,999 28’ 2014 Glasstream 280 ZS $139,999 28’ 2023 EdgeWater 285CC call 28’ 2000 Four Winns 298 Vista $54,900 28’ 2001 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer $37,999 28’ 2022 EdgeWater 280CC .........................................call 28’ 2001 Donzi 26ZF ............................................. $89,995 27’ 2019 Baja 27 Outlaw .................................. $120,000 26’ 2023 EdgeWater 262CC .........................................call 26’ 2023 EdgeWater 262CX ..........................................call 26’ 2022 Crevalle 26 HBW ............................................call 26’ 2022 Crevalle 26 HCO.............................................call 26’ 2014 Pursuit 260CC .................................... $129,000 26’ 2012 Pursuit 265 Dual Console $139,000 25’ 2013 Chaparral 257 SSX $81,999 24’ 1998 Pursuit 2460 Denali $49,995 24’ 2023 EdgeWater 248CX call 24’ 2022 Crevalle 24 HCO call 24’ 2022 EdgeWater 245CC call 24’ 2022 Qwest 824 LTZ call 23’ 2008 Pro-Line 23 Walk Around $52,500 23’ 2007 Azure AZ238 $47,500 23’ 2022 EdgeWater 230CC call 22’ 2022 Qwest 822 Lanai call 21’ 2012 Trophy 2152 Walk Around $29,000 21’ 2004 Chaparral 220 SSI $29,999 21’ 2014 Key West 210 Bay Reef...................... $45,995 21’ 1999 Alumaweld 21 Formula .................... $34,900 20’ 2023 EdgeWater 208CC .........................................call 18’ 2023 EdgeWater 188CC..........................................call 18’ 2003 Tracker Tundra 18 ................................ $19,995 18’ 2022 Qwest 818 XRE ...............................................call 16’ 2022 Qwest Edge 816 CTR ...................................call 14’ 2022 AB Inflatables Nautilus 14 DLX.................call 13’ 2016 Mercury Inflatables 400 .................... $19,999 12 2022 AB Inflatables Mares 12 VSX .....................call 11’ 2022 AB Inflatables Mares 11 VSX .....................call 11’ 2022 AB Inflatables Oceanus 11 VST ................call 11’ 2019 Zar Mini 11 HDL $9,500 10’ 2022 AB Inflatables Mares 10 VSX call 8’ 2017 2017 Gala F270 $4,200 NEW & USED INVENTORY FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF BOATS AVAILABLE, VISIT WWW.BAYMARINE.NET DOOR COUNTY YACHTING CENTER STURGEON BAY, 920-743-6526WI CHICAGO YACHTING CENTER WAUKEGAN, 847-336-2628IL SOUTHWEST FLORIDA FORT MYERS, 239-295-4332FL * Not all brands sold at all locations NEW! 2022 33 Crevalle CSF 2022 Edgewater 285 CC 2013 Sea Ray 540 Sundancer2021 Riviera 445 SUV 2014 42 Viking Sport Coupe 2009 Riviera 4400 Sport Yacht
GRANDwww.reedyachtsales.comHAVEN,MI • Brent Reed 616-402-0180 • Bob Lunt 616-843-1225 LASALLE, MI • Chuck Hutchins 734-497-3721 • Matthew Bolt 734-735-1948 RACINE, WI • Mark Derenne 414-651-3100 FIND A COMPLETE LIST OF INVENTORY INCLUDING NEW, USED AND BROKERAGE BOATS AT WWW.REEDYACHTSALES.COM BROKERAGE BOATS RANGER TUGS R-43 COMMAND BRIDGE WELDCRAFT 202 REBEL HARDTOP NORTHCOAST 315 CABIN ZODIAC OPEN 6.5 NORTHCOAST 230 CC DV ZODIAC MEDLINE 9 MAG BAY 33 CENTER CONSOLE WELDCRAFT 300 CUDDY KING OS 18’ 2020 Zodiac Open 5.5 PVC 115hp T-Top $59,900 18’ 2018 Alumacraft Trophy 185 $50,900 18’ 2002 Bayliner 1952 Capri Classic $9,900 21’ 2014 Ranger Tugs 21EC $59,999 21’ 2021 Zodiac Medline 6.8 NEO 250hp $104,499 23’ 1999 Bayliner 2452 Ciera $12,500 25’ 1996 Four Winns 258 Vista $25,900 26’ 2003 Seaswirl Striper 2601 Walkaround I/O ............................ $39,900 26’ 2002 Bayliner 2655 Ciera $19,900 28’ 2021 Weldcraft 280 Cuddy King $259,900 32’ 1985 Carver 3207 sale pending $26,500 32’ 2011 Legacy 32 MKIII $149,900 33’ 1992 Sea Ray 330 Sundancer $19,000 35’ 1994 Sea Ray 330 Sundancer sale pending $34,900 36’ 1984 Morgan 36 $24,900 37’ 1994 Silverton 37 Convertible sale pending $45,000 38’ 1995 Powerquest 380 Avenger sale pending ......................... $51,900 42’ 2006 Beneteau 423 sale pending $175,900
MARKETPLACEMARINE ADVERTISERS!OURSUPPORTPLEASE 70 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM • Purchase • Refinance • SERVINGLB•Pre-ApprovalLowRatesOATOANSKRISTYDEBOERkdeboer@tridentfunding.comBOATBUYERSNATIONWIDE630-400-0615WWW.TRIDENTFUNDING.COM Specialis ts in Marine Financ e TR ID EN T FU ND IN G FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DEALER/BROKERAGE ADVERTISING CONTACT: PATTI MCCLEERY TELEPHONE: 312-276-0610 x PMCCLEERY@LAKELANDBOATING.COM.21 ADDED SAFETY AT THE DOCK & ON THE WATER GREAT GIFTS! 419-341-0432 | WWW.NAUTICALCROSS.COM BOARDING POLE Extra assistance boarding the boat. $100 BURGEE HOLDER Wave that flag. $80 NAUTICAL CROSS Quickly tie-off fenders and tenders. $100 CALL JIM STEFANO hurleymarine.com / (906) 553-6249 Dinghy Davit Michigan!ProudlyMadein RECREATIONAL FINANCING THAT FITS YOUR LIFESTYLE ArrowFinancialLLC.com • 224-225-1410 A full-service recreational lender with prudentprofessionals,experiencedprovidingfinancingsolutions.
pj@centerpointesales.com. CNT 1999
years and
boat!
extremely well. Her interior
side view windows. $225,000.
redone
48 SPORTFISH This Sportfish commands attention. She
pampered in the Great Lakes for
recent replacement
GRAN TURISMO 46 Redesigned main deck and cockpit, which includes two large electrically reclining seats. Offers the handling ease of Beneteau’s previous smaller model, while making use of many of the details found in her 49' big sister. Asking $660,000. Contact Terry Godres at 920559-0730 or terry@centerpointesales.com. CNT 2019 CHRIS CRAFT LAUNCH 28 GT Gently used gem! This Chris-Craft has spent her whole life indoors and in freshwater. With a total of 59 engine hours
RYS
RYS
Advertise your boat, slip or property with us! Contact us by AUGUST 15 to get into our October 2022 issue and beyond! TO ADVERTISE IN CLASSIFIEDS Visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/CLASSIFIEDS for details and to submit your materials. Payments cannot be accepted online. We will contact you for payment once your ad proof is approved. Questions? Email Christy at CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM. 1967 CHRIS-CRAFT ROAMER 37 ft LOA, aluminum hull. 454 Crusaders repowered two years ago. Located in Cheboygan, MI. Asking $40,000. Call 810-955-4065. NOV23 WE LOVE YOU, SUMMER! 2003 SEASWIRL STRIPER 2601 WALKAROUND I/O Hardtop and enclosure added, plus fishing downriggers, Inverter, AC, GPS/ Chartplotter, Auto Pilot, Fish Finder, VHF, Volvo 5.7L I/O with 745 hours. 2002 Load-Rite roller trailer. Currently in paid heated indoor storage. Available to show by appointment only. Anglers get it now and be ready for spring action! Reduced to $39,900. Call Mark @ 414-651-3100. RYS 2021 WELDCRAFT 280 CUDDY KING 100% freshwater, one owner. Twin Yamaha LF/ F250XCAs with DEC electronic controls, only 32 hours! Yamaha T9.9XPB kicker motor. Loaded, including windlass, Garmin chartplotter/sounder and radar, GT23 transducer, upgraded fuel, water and waste tanks, galley, rear transom door, aft station cabinet. Asking $259,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0180.
REDUCED! 2014 RANGER TUGS 21EC Fresh water, low hours! Excellent cruising for couples, sleeps two in well-appointed cabin with helm chair and mates seat. Single stovetop burner, stainless steel sink, fridge w/freezer, stereo system, VHF, GPS/ Chartplotter, and head with holding tank. Asking $59,999. Call Mark @ 414-651-3100.
martin@centerpointe sales.com. CNT YOUR BOAT HERE! Sell your boat, slip or property on Lakeland’s Classified page! Take advantage of our four-month special for $250 with photo! Contact Christy at cbauhs@lakelandboating.com. LB CLASSIFIEDS LAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2022 71 ADVERTISERS!OURSUPPORTPLEASE SELL YOURBOAT HERE!
RYS2018 ALUMACRAFT TROPHY 185 Like new, with all the extras you need to go fishing! Yamaha 9.9 high-thrust kicker motor, extra swivel seats, Lowrance Chart Plotter, stereo, Snap-in carpet, Eagle single axle trailer w/Swing tongue, mooring cover. Great opportunity! Asking 54,900. Call Chuck @ 734-497-3721.
2017 BENETEAU it is practically like buying a new $220,000. Contact PJ Tamer at 262-424-9627 or HATTERAS has been many shows has been completely as well as of the Contact Martin Kelsey at 920-559-0366 or
According to the Brass Bell Summer 1994 issue, only 3 Sportsman with twin Model K engines were built, and only 28 of the twin engine 25’ Sportsman were built. My brother, Ken, and I learned how to water ski behind the boat, as did many of our neighborhood friends. We went across Green Bay to Marinette and Menominee and to Chambers Island and up and down the coast line from Sturgeon Bay to Gill Rock, at the far north end of the Door County Peninsula. One of the best features of the boat was the ability to walk from the front to back and not be isolated with separate seating compartments. This made it especially good for water skiing and socializing when cruising. The name EDJEKEN is a combination of my name, my wife Jeannie, and my brother Ken. Every summer we enjoy EDJEKEN with family and friends in Egg Harbor, Wisconsin. The EDJEKEN will be 75 years old next year and we hope to celebrate its 75 years in Egg Harbor. — Edward & Jeannie James, Egg Harbor, WI
ADD YOUR BOAT! Email LAKELANDBOATING.COMKBUSH@ if you have a Classic Craft with a great story to share! 72 SEPTEMBER 2022 | LAKELANDBOATING.COM
Our boat was purchased new in Sturgeon Bay at Sturgeon Bay Marine in 1948 by our father. We are the only owner and the boat has been kept in our unheated garage every night except one since the time we took delivery. The dolly and track system was designed by our father — he had the entire system, dolly and track, delivered to Egg Harbor where it was put together and is in service today. The boat is all original with Model K twin 95 HP engines. We added the rear seat/storage compartment; it is removable with no changes to the existing interior.
EDJEKEN 1948, Chris-Craft, 25’ Sportsman.
CLASSIC CRAFT
JAMESEDWARDOFCOURTESYPHOTO
ADVERTISE IN CALL 800-331-0132 FOR MORE INFORMATION
