January 2019

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H U RO N | O N TA R I O | M I C H I G A N | E R I E | S U P E R I OR

JANUARY 2019

TIARA SPORT 34 LS

GLASTRON GTDW 225 A surfer’s (and angler’s) dreamboat. p. 40 BE A GOOD SAM What to do if you end up in a good Samaritan situation. p. 44 DISPLAY UNTIL JANUARY 31, 2019

CRUISING 101 Planning tips and tricks. p. 46

LUXURIOUS, SPORTY DAYBOAT. p. 36

CANADIAN CHARTER A couple and their granddaughter take a trip down the Rideau Canal on a Le Boat bareboat charter. p. 48 PORT OF CALL Toronto, Ontario: As the largest, most diverse Canadian city, it’s no wonder there’s something for everyone in this bustling port. p. 52

SPOTLIGHTS AZIMUT ★ CROWNLINE ★ PRINCESS ★ RIVIERA


About hull design and construction – the Marlow approach

A

ll MarlowExplorer® series yachts are built with a semi-displacement hull incorporating our proprietary Velocijet Strut Keels®, providing a more stable, economical, and protective hull design. By utilizing a NACA aerospace foil strut

keel design Marlow has gained superior stability and performance in all sea conditions, including heavy following seas, while providing excellent running gear protection from debris and grounding. The performance benefits from significant drag reduction and directional stability have resulted in higher cruising speeds, increased comfort, and reduced fuel consumption. Marlow Explorers are all constructed from three major molds, enabling us increased structural integrity with fewer seams resulting in a superior watertight yacht. Through the use of our Full-Stack Infusion® RIVAT system, in combination with industry leading

modified epoxy resins, uni-directional and DupontTM Kevlar® fabrics, Marlow has created both a stronger and lighter yacht. Discover the world of coves, bays, sounds, rivers, and the deep blue ocean at the helm of your own Marlow Explorer. For more information from the bright minds at Marlow visit us at www.marlowyachts.com.

MarlowExplorer ® 49E | 53E | 58E | 62E | 66E | 70E | 75E | 80E | 88E MarlowExplorer pictured with optional Command Bridge

North American and International Inquiries www.marlowyachts.com • sales @ marlowyachts.com Marlow Marine Sales, Inc. USA/Canada: 800.362.2657 • International: +1.941.729.3370


Marlow Explorer® yachts are the envy of the yachting world. “Our consuming attention to detail and improving the yachting experience drives us forward.” – David Marlow, Chairman Marlow Yachts LTD


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Features

ON T H E COV E R

Boat Test: Tiara Sport 34 LS Game two of Tiara’s doubleheader. by Chuck Warren.............................

Boat Test: Glastron GTDW 225 Surfing and fishing machine. by Alan Wendt .........................................

In 2017, the team behind Tiara Yachts unveiled a new way of boating: Tiara Sport. In the past two years, the boatbuilder has been perfecting its craft, and the 34 LS is the second result of that effort. With an outdoor galley, convertible sunpad, plenty of bow space and a cabin below, the 34 LS lives up to its LS namesake: Luxurious and sporty.

36

40

Good Samaritans: Rules and Risks The “law of the sea” says to help boaters in need, but what do federal and state laws and insurance providers have to say? by Joan Wenner, J.D. ...............................................................................

44

Plan Your Next Cruise Thinking about tossing the docklines and embarking on a Great Lakes adventure? Check out these tips and tricks before you go. by Felicia Schneiderhan ............................................................................

46

Cruising the Rideau Canal Exploring Ontario’s waterway on a Le Boat charter. by Bruce Kemp .....

48

Port of Call: Toronto, Ontario Toronto the Good: A multi-faceted personality has blessed Toronto with an abundance of colorful nicknames. But all it takes is a single visit to leave boaters calling it their own slice of waterfront heaven. by Craig Ritchie .........................................................................................

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@ lakelandboating.com ★ Shop boats for sale by owner ★ Place a classified ad to sell your boat ★ Peruse dozens of exciting destination stories ★ Check out our most recent Boat Tests & Spotlights ★ Purchase our Great Lakes Cruising Guides ★ Access past issues with our online magazine ★ Stay current on all the latest Great Lakes news ★ And much more!

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Departments

4 Dock Box ............................................................................................. 6 Calendar .............................................................................................. 8 Scuttle......................................................................................................... 10 Great Gear........................................................................................ 22 Don’t Hesitate to Renovate .......................................................24 Electronics .......................................................................................26 Safety First ...................................................................................... 28 Beneath the Surface ....................................................................30 Boat Spotlights: Azimut, Crownline, Princess, Riviera ...... 32 Lakeshore Life: Boyne City, MI ................................................ 60 Boat Biz: PlasTEAK/PlasDECK ................................................62 Marine Marketplace ...................................................................... 63 Classifieds ........................................................................................79 Classic Craft ................................................................................... 80 From the Helm ..................................................................................

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOURISM TORON TO

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Fish & Cruise While the 236CC was designed for use as a coastal fishing boat, it's really a multi-purpose boat that can be used for lots of activities — pulling kids on a tube, cruising to dinner, or just a leisurely ride along the waterways.

With seating for up to twelve passengers, rod holders and storage throughout, and a changing compartment that can be upgraded with an optional porta potti, the 236CC is ready for a full day of fun on the water with family and friends! 236CC Deck Boat 23’ 8” | 101” beam | 3648 lbs (w/ popular engine) | 68 gal fuel capacity | 12 ppl, 3250 lbs VISIT STINGRAYBOATS.COM /236CC FOR MORE INFORMATION


FROM THE HELM

CONTRIBUTORS

BY KAT E B U S H

What is your 2019 New Year’s resolution?

Take Inventory I

Joan Wenner

f the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show in November was any indication of what’s to come, then 2019 is going to be a great year for boating! See our recap of the show in “Scuttle” (p. 12). The start of a new year warrants retrospection, but it’s also a great time to take inventory of what’s to come. Are you planning on finally embarking on that long-awaited Great Lakes cruise? Check out contributor Felicia Schneiderhan’s feature packed with cruising tips to make sure you’re fully prepared for the adventure (p. 46). For those who want to drive someone else’s boat, board one of Le Boat’s charter powerboats at its newest location on the Rideau Canal (p. 48). Speaking of Canadian destinations, this issue’s “Port of Call” is Toronto, Ontario (p. 52). As Canada’s largest, most diverse city, there’s certainly plenty to see and do, including visiting the Toronto Islands, attending one of the many events, and shopping-till-you-drop at the many boutiques and malls. Spend this month jotting down all you want to accomplish and every place you want to visit in 2019. I hope that the coming year brings you peace, health and happiness. Happy New Year!

For the New Year I want to share more with yacht club members, especially those newer to boating, on the topic of boating safety and how to steer clear of the law. This advice is gained from my years as a lifelong sailor. I will also stress the real problem of trash and plastics in our waters and what we can all do to reduce.

HHH

Bruce Kemp This year’s resolution is to stop making them. I vowed to quit smoking, lose weight and grow my hair back. None of those happened on the expected day, although two of the three eventually did.

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

AREAS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE

HHH

Rideau Canal p. 48 Boyne City, MI p. 60 Toronto, ON p. 52

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Felicia Schneiderhan My New Year’s resolution is to refinish the teak railings and window frames on our trawler. This has been my New Year’s resolution for the past five years. But this year — for real — it’s happening!



DOCK BOX

JANUARY 2019 | VOLUME LXXIII, NO. 1

CANINE & FELINE CREW

PUBLISHER Walter “Bing” O’Meara EDITORIAL STAFF Editorial Director: Kate Bush Assistant Editor: Amanda McDonald CREATIVE STAFF Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

CONTRIBUTORS Helen Aitken, Glenn Hayes, Paul Kemiel, Bruce Kemp, Ken Kreisler, Rick & Diane Laenen, Capt. Frank Lanier, Craig Ritchie, Felicia Schneiderhan, Heather Steinberger, Chuck Warren, Alan Wendt, Joan Wenner

Email us at staff@ lakelandboating.com or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 1555 Sherman Ave., Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201. Opinions expressed in “Dock Box” are not necessarily those of Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

BUSINESS STAFF National Sales: Mark Conway Regional Sales: Patti McCleery Marketing Director: Linda O’Meara Accounting: Marguerite Wristen EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 / Fax: 312-276-0619 STAFF@LAKELANDBOATING.COM LAKELANDBOATING.COM

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610 x. 24 / Fax: 312-276-0619 CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM

SUBSCRIPTIONS P.O. Box 15396 North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396 800-827-0289

Margot Editor Kate’s chow/Aussie pup is here to bring some sunshine to your January day, and also remind you to submit pictures of your canine (and feline) crewmembers!

Calling all Canine and Feline Crew! We want to learn about your furry friends onboard! Send us a short write-up with your pet’s name and home city, as well as a high-resolution photo (at least 1 MB) to: staff@lakelandboating. com. Please put “Canine/Feline Crew” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!

Everyone looks great in a Lakeland Boating hat! Need a gift for your favorite boater or yourself? Our Lakeland Boating hat is constructed from soft cotton twill for a great fit. Leather band adjustment in back with antiqued brass closure. Available in weathered navy, Nantucket red and khaki. One

O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC. President: Walter B. O’Meara Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2019, by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. • Business/Accounting and Editorial Offices: 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201, 312-276-0610. • Call 800-827-0289 to subscribe. Subscription correspondence should be addressed to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615 (U.S.). Annual subscription rates: United States: $24.95 per year; International and Canadian: $39.95 per year, includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. 894095074-RT 0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $4.99 for U.S. and Canada. Only U.S. funds are accepted. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices. • POSTMASTER: please send address changes to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396. • Lakeland Boating is a registered trademark of O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., Evanston, IL. Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. • Unsolicited work may be submitted at the creator’s own risk. Lakeland Boating assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited material. All submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage. All published photos are courtesy of the manufacturer, unless otherwise noted.

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

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PRINTED IN THE U.S.A


Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Annual premium for a basic liability policy not available all states. Prices vary based on how you buy. *Available with comprehensive and collision coverage.

There’s a reason they say, Curse like a sailor. That’s why we offer basic plans starting at $100 a year with options that won’t depreciate your watercraft and accessories*. 1.800.PROGRESSIVE | PROGRESSIVE.COM


CALENDAR OF EVENTS BY KAT E B U S H

JAN 1

New Year’s Day Parade Egg Harbor, WI

EGGHARBORDOORCOUNTY.ORG

JACKSONPORTPOLARBEARCLUB.COM

JAN 4 – 6

Wisconsin RV Super Show Milwaukee, WI

THEWISCONSINRVSHOW.COM

JAN 9 – 13

Chicago Boat, RV and 1 Strictly Sail Show Chicago, IL

CHICAGOBOATSHOW.COM

4

JAN 10 – 13

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

JAN 11 – 20

Ohio RV and Boat Show Columbus, OH

OHIORVANDBOATSHOW.COM

JAN 11 – 27

Niagara Icewine Festival Niagara Falls, ON

NIAGARAWINEFESTIVAL.COM

JAN 17 – 20

Camper, Travel & RV Show Grand Rapids, MI

5

SHOWSPAN.COM/GRV

JAN 17 – 21

Progressive Mid-America 2 Boat Show Cleveland, OH

CLEVELANDBOATSHOW.COM

JAN 18

Wine about Winter Grand Haven, MI

VISITGRANDHAVEN.COM

JAN 18 – 20, 23 – 27

Cincinnati Travel, Sports and Boat Show Cincinnati, OH CINCINNATIBOATSHOW.COM

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

ADD YOUR EVENT

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Visit LAKELANDBOATING.COM/GREAT-LAKES-EVENTS to add your event to our Calendar of Events page!

JANUARY 2019

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1 JAN 18 – 27

Toronto International Boat Show Toronto, ON TORONTOBOATSHOW.COM

JAN 23 – 27

Thunder Bay International Film Fest Alpena, MI THUNDERBAYFRIENDS.ORG

JAN 24 – 27

Grand Haven Winterfest 3 Grand Haven, MI WINTERFESTMI.ORG

Progressive Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show Minneapolis, MN MINNEAPOLISBOATSHOW.COM

WBAY-TV RV & Camping Expo Green Bay, WI RVANDCAMPINGEXPOGB.COM

2 Waukesha JanBoree Waukesha, WI JANBOREE.ORG

JAN 26

JAN 25 – 26

St. Joe Winter Beer Fest 5 St. Joseph, MI

SAULTSTEMARIE.COM

JAN 26 – FEB 3

Downtown Winter Ice Festival 4 Sault Ste. Marie, MI

JAN 25 – 27

Lake Superior Ice Festival Superior, WI

LAKESUPERIORICEFESTIVAL.COM

Noquemanon Ski Marathon Marquette, MI NOQUEMANON.COM

6

STJOETODAY.COM

Winterfest & U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition Lake Geneva, WI

6

VISITLAKEGENEVA.COM/WINTERFEST

JAN 31

Taste of the North Coast Sandusky, OH

TASTEOFTHENORTHCOAST.COM

PHOTO CREDITS: 1 . CHICAG O BOAT SHOW; 2. PROGRESSIVE INSU RANCE MID-AMERICA BOAT SHOW FACEBOOK; 3. GRAND HAVEN WINTERF EST FACEBOOK; 4. I LOVE SAULT STE. MARIE, MICH IG AN FACEBOOK; 5. ST. JOSEPH TODAY FACEBOOK; 6. VISIT LAKE GENEVA FACEBOOK

3

Polar Bear Swim Jacksonport, WI


MAKE IT A

GLASTRON

For over 60 years families and friends have been making memories on the most iconic boat on the water. Share with us and the rest of the boating community by tagging your memories with #GLASTRONSUMMER.

© 2018, Rec Boat Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved. ®/TM signifies trademarks of Glastron, LLC, its affiliates or suppliers.


BUSINESS

Maritimo Adds B & E Marine to Dealer Network Australian luxury motoryacht manufacturer Maritimo has expanded its U.S. reach with the appointment of Michigan City, Indiana-based B & E Marine as a dealer partner. Co-Founder Ronald Bensz started the company in 1953 with his friend Rolland Evett. A few years later he became sole owner and eventually sold the business to his two sons in the mid-1980s. Barry and Rod Bensz have continued in their father’s footsteps to foster the company’s commitment to excellence and community involvement. “The climate-controlled flybridge motoryachts will resonate

SCUTTLE GREAT LAKES NEWS

During the 2018 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October, Beneteau announced that it plans to build Antares outboard models at its facilities in Cadillac, Michigan, within the next year.

ADD YOUR NEWS

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BOATS

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MUST-HAVE

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BUZZ

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well with boaters in our area, and the exciting new X-series, which has changed the world of sport yachts internationally, will also prove to be very popular I am sure,” Rod Bensz says. For more information, visit MARITIMO.COM. AU and BEMARINE .COM.

EVENTS

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PEOPLE & PLACES

America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 Signed into Law President Trump has signed America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 into law. The piece of legislation includes the Water Resources Development Act of 2018 and provides funding for infrastructure projects, including the Soo Locks, dredging programs and restoration projects. The America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 also allows the use of technology to detect and combat algal bloom outbreaks and aquatic invasive species.

GREAT LAKES NEWS

Bob Clemons: 1926-2018

Great Lakes news to Scuttle!

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BUSINESS

GREAT LAKES NEWS

The boating world lost a longtime boater, businessman and industry great; Robert L. “Bob” Clemons, 92, of Catawba Island, passed away on October 8, 2018. Clemons was the founder of Clemons Boats, Inc., which he started in 1966 and continued as owner until his retirement in 1992. The business he founded continues his legacy more than 50 years later, still under family management. Clemons previously served as the president of Catawba Island Chamber of Commerce and as the commander of the Port Clinton Power Squadrons. In the late 70s, he served as an officer on the Lake Erie Marine Trades Boat Show Committee. Email kbush@lakelandboating.com to add your company’s

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LAKELANDBOATING.COM



P HOTOS BY KAT E B US H

SCUTTLE

Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Roundup

Y

et another successful Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show has come and gone. The 2018 event, which took place October 31 to November 4, had more than 3 million square feet of exhibition space; six miles of floating docks; more than 1,500 boats on display across seven locations; more than 1,500 exhibitors; and over 110,000 visitors from 52 countries attended the show. Needless to say, it was a BIG show. Below are a few of the new boat and boat accessory debuts.

3

million square feet of exhibition space

6

1,500

miles of floating docks

boats on display

52

Over

110,000 visitors

countries represented

Show Debuts

BELIZE 66

BOSTON WHALER 160 SUPER SPORT

GALEON 470 SK YDECK

PRESTIGE 590

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• Azimut Yachts: Three models debuted: The S6, a pure sports coupé featuring unprecedented technology; the Grande 25 Metri superyacht; and the Atlantis 51, with sporty, aggressive styling. • Blackfin: The flagship of Blackfin Boats, the new 332CC, features an LOA of 33 feet, 2 inches, and one of the smoothest rides in its class. • Boston Whaler: The “Unsinkable Legend” continues its legacy with the new 130 and 160 Super Sport boats. • Chris-Craft: The Launch 35 GT boasts either sterndrive or outboard propulsion, an optional painted hardtop with a SureShade and plenty of varnished mahogany throughout. • Cox: The world’s first 300-hp diesel outboard engine, the CXO 300 Outboard Diesel, made its debut. • Fairline: The British luxury motoryacht manufacturer had its U.S. debut of the new Targa 43 OPEN, a sleek yacht powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS600 engines offering speeds of up to 32 knots. • Galeon: Two boats debuted: The 470 SKYDECK and 650 SKYDECK, both offering an innovative, retractable bridge deck design and alfresco bar accessed via a balcony (the 650 has two alfresco bars on both port and starboard side). • Garmin: This tech giant debuted: BlueChart g3 and LakeVü g3, a new line of cartography products; GPSMAP

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

8600/8600xsv series; Reactor Autopilot Remote; GRID 20 Remote Input Device; GC 200 Marine IP Camera; and inReach Mini Marine Bundle. • Grand Banks/Palm Beach: These boatbuilding companies displayed two new boats, the Palm Beach GT 50 and Grand Banks 60, and announced the Grand Banks 52, which is expected to launch in late summer 2019. • Groupe Beneteau: There were 14 show debuts from Groupe Beneteau: Four Winns Vista 335 OB; Wellcraft 352 Fisherman; Beneteau Swift Trawler 47; Barracuda 21, 23 and 27; Antares 21, 23, 27; Jeanneau NC 1095; Jeanneau Leader 30 OB and 33 OB; Leader 9.0 CC center console; and Prestige 590. • HCB Yachts: The world’s largest center console, the Estrella 65, made her debut. • Monterey: The new Monterey 305SS has a 9-foot beam and can be equipped with up to 600 hp. • Princess Yachts: The new R35 performance sports yacht; S78 sportbridge; and elegant F70 made their U.S. debuts. • Riviera: This Australian boatbuilder had four new boats on display: The Belize 66; 395 SUV; 39 Sports Motor Yacht; and 72 Sports Motor Yacht. • Tiara Sport: The new 34 LX is the first in Tiara Sport’s LX series, boasting twin Yamaha Outboards 350s and a spacious cockpit.

PRINCESS R35

RIVIERA 395 SUV

TIARA 34 LX


LUXURY

DEFINED THE FOUR WINNS 2019 LINE Four Winns, more than any other brand, offers the power to choose. Outboard and sterndrive from 18'-37' with a wide range of horsepower options. Visit fourwinns.com for more information on the newest additions to our fleet.

Life should be a beautiful ride. Š2018, Rec Boat Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved. Ž/TM signifi es trademarks of Four Winns, LLC or suppliers.


SCUTTLE

BUZZ

Irish Boat Shop To Build New Facility

BOATS

MasterCraft Gives Sneak Peek of New Dayboat Brand

MasterCraft Boat Holdings LLC will debut its new large dayboat brand, Aviara, at the 2019 Miami Boat Show in February. The new line will offer 32- to 40-foot dayboats, with the first model available for customer delivery starting in July 2019. “To be very clear, Aviara is not a performance sport boat, nor is it an offshore fishing boat,” says MasterCraft Boat Holdings president and CEO Terry McNew. “Aviara will be positioned as the preeminent brand serving the large recreational dayboat segment, combining European styling with American layout and engineering.” This news comes shortly after MasterCraft Boat Holdings acquired Crest pontoons in October 2018, expanding its scope to the outboard market.

Come 2020, Irish Boat Shop’s facility in Harbor Springs, Michigan, will look very different. The boat shop is in the process of building a new, modern facility in the southwest corner of its waterfront property on Bay Street in Harbor Springs. The new building will offer a fully heated and air-conditioned boat showroom, a comprehensive boater’s lounge with laundry facilities, an inviting retail space, and an expanded office suite to house Irish’s rapidly growing team. The building’s new location on the property will allow Irish to host both indoor and outdoor events, and improves Irish’s ability to launch and haul boats. Irish will break ground in August 2019 and expects the construction to be completed within 18-24 months. For more information, visit IRISHBOATSHOP.COM.

Webasto has released its new Folding Shade 2500, which lets sun in at the touch of a button. The new shade system is quiet, dry and — thanks to its self-adjusting cross beams — extremely easy to install. Visit webasto-marine.com. MUST-HAVE

Polk Ultramarine Stereo with Four-Zone Capability

The latest marine stereo from Polk Ultramarine, the UM2 is the first Polk Ultramarine stereo to offer four-zone capability with the separate POLK DSP module. This gives boaters independent volume control of up to four different areas of the boat, from the helm to tower speakers, so every rider has the perfect listening experience. The waterproof and UV/corrosion resistant stereo features a 4.3-inch full-color TFT display and Bluetooth connectivity that allows boaters to stream their favorite tunes and control music right from a smart device (with the Polk Ultramarine app). The UM2 stereo is also compatible with either the PRC100BC or PRCZ200BC wired remotes from Polk, sold separately. For more information, visit POLK AUDIO.COM.

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SCUTTLE

BUZZ

Safe Harbor Marinas Acquires Detroit Marina With an ever-growing portfolio of marinas, Safe Harbor Marinas recently closed its sale of Belle Maer Harbor on Lake St. Claire near Detroit, Michigan, raising the number of Safe Harbor Marinas to 75. Belle Maer Harbor is a 60-acre, full-service marina that’s home to nearly 900 boating families. The marina has 400 rental slips, 108 in-and-out rack storage units, as well as 406 “condominium slips.” Safe Harbor Senior Vice President of Investments Jason Hogg says: “When paired with our wonderful property at Jefferson Beach, Belle Maer enables us to upgrade our Member experience, host events like regional Safe Harbor rendezvous, and create more value for our Members through our loyalty program.” For more information, visit BELLEMAERHARBORMARINA .COM.

BUZZ

National Museum of the Great Lakes Gets New Boat

Brunswick Corp. CEO Mark Schwabero has announced his retirement and has been succeeded by David Foulkes, Brunswick CTO and president of marine consumer solutions.

A new boat has docked at the National Museum of the Great Lakes: The Ohio. The Ohio is a Lake Class Tugboat formerly owned by the Great Lakes Towing Company, which donated the tug to the museum for display at its location on the east bank of the Maumee River. The Ohio will join the museum’s other riverfront ship attraction: The Col. James M. Schoonmaker. “After finally reaching the end of her useful commercial life, we are delighted that the famous tug Ohio has found a new home at the museum,” says Joseph Starck, Jr., president of the Great Lakes Towing Company. “Built in 1903 as a fireboat, and in our fleet as a key icebreaking tug since 1952, the tug is rich in history with a wonderful story to tell,” The Ohio is undergoing an exterior restoration but will be open to the public come spring. For more information, visit INLANDSEAS.ORG. MUST-HAVE

Dometic CapTouch and Slide-Out Kitchen Dometic has revealed two new innovative products: The CapTouch Wifi Cabin Control and the Slide-Out Kitchen. The CapTouch WiFi Cabin Control is an app that revolutionizes setup and operation of the Dometic heating units. Using marina Wi-Fi or a hotspot, the cabin control’s embedded Wi-Fi offers remote access to the system panel right from a phone or tablet. With CapTouch, you can control multiple thermostats individually, all together, or in zoned groups. The Dometic Slide-Out Kitchen is the industry’s first retractable galley that functions both inside and outside the cabin to allow boaters to have two galleys with one unit. For more information on these two products, visit DOMETIC.COM.

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SCUTTLE

EVENTS

History was made at the 68th Indiana Governor’s Cup race held July 7-8, 2018, in Madison, Indiana, as it was the first time a woman has won an Unlimited Series race as crew chief. While Jimmy Shane (pictured left) drove his Miss Homestreet Bank/Miss Madison unlimited hydroplane to a first place finish, with an average speed of 140.089 mph on the Ohio River hydro course, the big buzz on pit row was Cindy Shirley (from Everett, Washington, pictured right). A long-time crewmember of the Miss Madison team, she was recently appointed as crew chief, and Shane’s victory provided Shirley with her first win as crew chief. “I am ecstatic,” Shirley says. “We fine-tuned the boat all day to find the right balance with propeller selection and find the right gearbox ratio.” —Paul Kemiel

NMMA President Thom Dammrich has announced his retirement as president of NMMA. Dammrich has lead the NMMA for nearly 20 years. His successor will start at the association on July 1, 2019.

BUZZ

SureShade Unveils OnTrack System at IBEX There’s another way to stay cool this coming summer with the introduction of SureShade’s new OnTrack sliding canvas sunroom system, which debuted at IBEX 2018. SureShade OnTrack is a new sliding canvas sunroof system that leverages SureShade’s patented cambered roller technology for improved functionality and performance. The system locks in place at full extension, has better rain runoff and a lower profile in arch hardtops compared to straight systems. OnTrack’s ball bearing track system allows for easy track glide to retract or extend canvas sunroof. For more information, visit SURESHADE .COM.

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PHOTO BY PAUL K E M I E L

68th Indiana Governor’s Cup


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See the full line at ScarabJetBoats.com ©2018 Rec Boat Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved. ™ and ® are trademarks or registered trademarks of a subsidiary of Rec Boat Holdings, LLC or suppliers.

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SCUTTLE

BUZZ

New Ferry Coming to Put-in-Bay Miller Boat Line has ordered a new 140-foot-long, 38.5-foot-wide ferry to join its current fleet of four passenger/vehicle ferries. The drive-on, drive-off ferry can accommodate 26 vehicles or 600 passengers and will travel between the peninsula of Catawba to Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Island, Ohio, on Lake Erie.

BOATS

Malibu Unveils New Gx Tower and LSV Model

LA

ad bef K ve ore EL nt p A ur la N Br e nn D ow or in BO s bu g y A e yin ou TI g r n NG yo ex ur t .C ne cru OM xt isi bo ng at !

Malibu Boats has two new, exciting products: The Malibu Gx Tower, which will replace the G4 tower, and the 25-foot Wakesetter 25 LSV. The Gx (pronounced “G ten”) features powered raising and lowering at the touch of a dial, and has fully integrated Bimini and board rack options. The Gx will be available as a premium option throughout the majority of the Wakesetter line for those who want the ultimate in convenience. Speaking of the Wakesetter line, Malibu’s newest Wakesetter 25 LSV makes her debut in 2019 as the flagship of the LSV line — offering the most interior space, storage capacity, ballast, as well as the biggest wake and wave. The boat features technology and comfort innovations, like wireless phone charging, the new Malibu Multi View Bench Seat, and an available integrated swim step that flips down from the swimboard. For more information, visit MALIBUBOATS.COM.

“Do you love the Great Lakes as much as I do?” We know you love the Great Lakes as much as adorable Charlie.

CHARLIE PHOTO BY JOE JOHNSON

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The ferry will be built by Superior, Wisconsin-based Fraser Shipyards, and will make her debut in the fall of 2019. The ferry will have better propulsion and maneuverability than its current ships, more cargo space, and a maindeck ADA accessible passenger cabin. It will be christened Mary Ann Market in honor of the company’s late owner. For more information, visit MILLERFERRY.COM.

Keep up with all the scuttle at LAKELANDBOATING.COM: Don’t miss the latest Great Lakes news and events, the coolest Ports of Call to explore, and boats for sale by owner. See you there!

JANUARY 2019

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SCUTTLE

BUZZ

MarquisLarson Building Lexus Yacht in Wisconsin Groupe Beneteau has appointed Christophe Lavigne as president of U.S. brands, which includes Four Winns, Glastron, Wellcraft and Scarab. He previously served as VP of engineering and customer service in Cadillac, Michigan. In his new role, Lavigne is responsible for leading all functional departments and driving the future of the four brands.

BOATS

A new luxury sport boat is being constructed in Wisconsin, as the Marquis-Larson Boat Group plant in Pulaski has signed a contract to build, sell and service the new Lexus LY 650. Yes, Lexus, known for its automobiles, is creating its second yacht. The new 65-foot yacht will feature a 19-foot beam, signature Lexus design cues, advanced technology, three lavish staterooms and several multi-purpose lounge and entertainment areas. The first completed Lexus LY 650 is expected to be finished in the second half of 2019 and will make its global debut late in the year. For more information, visit LEXUSYACHTS.COM.

Montara Boats Announces Surf Pontoon

Have you ever dreamed of surfing behind a pontoon boat? Minnesota-based Montara Boats will make your dreams come true with its industry-first pontoon boat you can surf behind. This patent-pending design blends the comfort of a pontoon boat with the performance of an inboard surf boat. “For the past 15 years I’ve watched neighbors and friends buy tow boats for watersports in addition to pontoons for entertaining. We’ve cracked the code on this and figured out how to blend these, creating the Surf Boss that does it all,” says Montara CEO Mark Overbye. The Montara Surf Boss is available in three lengths: 21, 23 and 25 feet. The boat is equipped with PCM inboard engines , a fully enclosed head, a 5,000-pound-plus ballast system, a top-end speed that reaches 40 mph and dual swiveling captain’s chairs. For more info, visit MONTARABOATS.COM.

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Rokk Waterproof Wireless Charger Sick of a standard phone charger’s wires and cords? Use Qi technology to charge your smartphone with the sleek Rokk waterproof wireless charger. Works with Qienabled phones (or with a Qi phone case). Designed specifically for use on boats. Housed in an IPX6, fully encapsulated and sealed unit. Available in three different designs: Hidden, surface and bezel. $55.99 (HIDDEN), $59.99 (SURFACE), $63.99 (BEZEL) AT DEFENDER.COM

GREAT GEAR MUST-HAVE GOODIES AND GADGETS FOR EVERY BOATER .

Hurley Marine Cleat

Tervis Great Lakes Tumbler

Michigan-made Hurley Marine has a new product in its portfolio: The Hurley Cleat. This removable, durable and practical cleat works with existing Hurley Marine H2O & H3O Davit mount plates, so you can quickly tie off your tender when anchored up. Cleats are made of King Starboard and are specially formulated to withstand the rigors of harsh marine environments.

Flaunt your Great Lakes pride with the Tervis “Great Lakes, Great Times” 24-ounce tumbler. This insulated drinkware is made in America, is BPA free, designed for both hot and cold beverages, and is microwave and dishwasher safe. Comes with a lid so you can keep spills at bay. Fits most cup holders. $19.99 AT TERVIS.COM

$34.95 (CLEAT), $59.95 (CLEAT + MOUNT PLATE) AT HURLEYMARINE .COM

SiOnyx Aurora Night Vision Camera See the world in living color — in the dark! The SiOnyx Aurora Night Vision Camera is the world’s first waterproof day/night camera. This hi-definition, color action-camera will allow you to navigate even in low-light situations. Can be synced with a smartphone app to seamlessly share your videos with friends, take compass bearings, navigate waypoints and more. Compact size (under 8 ounces) with big pixels. $639 AT SIONYX.COM

Star brite Tea Tree Oil Gel Air Purifier Come spring, the last thing you want is to open up the boat and smell a fragrance of mildew. So while the boat is laid-up, stock the cabin with Star brite’s Tea Tree Oil Gel Air Purifier and prevent odors. Genuine Australian Tea Tree Oil is the natural way to ensure air quality. To use, simply twist off lid, remove the inner seal, replace lid and, voila! you’ll have healthy air for three months. STARBRITE .COM

PLANO 3700 Hydro-Flo Tackle Bag

ADD YOUR GEAR

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Email kbush@lakelandboating.com to add your awesome product news to Great Gear!

JANUARY 2019

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Before the boating season begins and the fish start biting, get your fishing gear organized with the PLANO tackle bag. Top area holds a ProLatch StowAway storage box to organize all of your frequently used tackle. Bag also includes dual-compartment side pockets with handles, two padded pockets for personal valuables, elastic tie-down straps on top and more. Features waterproof, impact- and skid-resistant base. $99.99 AT WESTMARINE .COM



DON’T HESITATE TO RENOVATE BY C A P T. F R A N K L A N IE R

Weather the Storm ld man winter has come to call, and the first squall of the season may be on its way. If your winter storm prep plan consists of hanging cousin Bubba’s garage drop light in the engine compartment and calling it good, you may want to beef it up. Here’s how to improve your boat’s chances of making it through that first winter storm (and subsequent ones) unscathed. Preparation is key The action items needed to prepare your boat for a winter storm are based on a number of factors. Winterized boats located in northern regions will be a step ahead of their southerly brethren, as most of the basics will have already been completed. Boats stored in a wet slip or outside on a trailer will also have different concerns than one hauled or stored ashore at a boatyard or inside. It’s winter — whether you like it or not Like taxes, winterization in colder climes is a fact of life for boat owners — a certainty that if not completed in the fall will surely result in damaged systems and lighter wallets come spring. As such, we’ll assume you’ve already taken the basic winterization steps to protect the various systems aboard your boat (engines, sanitation systems, potable water, etc.). Just because you’re a step ahead of the winter storm prep game, however, don’t be complacent. Sage advice is to view these previous winter preparations with a Reagan-esque approach of trust, but verify. This means visiting your boat well before the storm hits to make sure all is ready and as you left it when tucking her in for that long winter’s nap. Airplane pilots use checklists to prevent slip-ups and so should you! They’re undoubtedly the simplest way to eliminate storm preparation missteps. Tailor checklist items to your specific situation (i.e. hauled vs. in-water storage) while detailing what tasks need to be done, as well as any materials required (antifreeze, chafe gear, extra lines, etc.). Here’s a list of typical tasks a boat owner would want to complete prior to an impending winter storm. This list should provide a good baseline to help in developing a checklist of your own.

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 .

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Storage-specific checklist Boats hauled and stored ashore • Check your winter cover (canvas, shrinkwrap, etc.). Ensure that it’s properly secured with no loose ends, rips or tears. • Check the condition of cradles, support blocks and jack stands. Ensure each is positioned correctly and that your boat is properly supported. • For earth or gravel storage facilities, place plywood sheets under jack stand bases to prevent sinking or shifting. • Check to make sure all jack stands utilize safety chains.

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• • • •

Boats can rock in high winds, causing unchained jack stands to move, which puts the boat at risk of falling. Make sure your boat is level to promote proper drainage. Ensure covers are never tied to jack stands or support blocks; flapping canvas can yank them out in high winds, causing the boat to topple over. Strap your boat down if possible. Many yards now provide embedded tie-down points for this. Remove bilge drain plugs.

Boats stored on a trailer • Check winter covers, ensuring each are in good condition and properly secured. • Move your boat to the safest location possible (i.e. indoors, away from flood prone areas, etc.). • Park away from trees to avoid scupper-clogging leaves, as well as damage from fallen tree branches. • Clean the cockpit of debris that could clog scupper drains, remove bilge drain plugs, and ensure all scupper drain seacocks are open and draining properly. • Un-step the mast of trailerable sailboats to reduce windage. Boats stored in the water • Check all dock lines for wear and replace any that are questionable. • Double up lines where possible. • Inspect dock cleats and hardware. If cleats are damaged or appear unreliable, consider tying lines directly to pilings. • Center your boat in the slip using long dock and spring lines, and keep the boat away from the dock to prevent banging into the dock or even becoming trapped underneath it. • Add chafe protection to lines, and inspect chocks and fairleads for damage or sharp edges that could damage dock lines. • Adjust fender placement and add additional ones as needed. A couple of large fenders will provide much more protection than numerous smaller ones. • Verify proper operation of all bilge pumps, automatic float switches and bilge alarms. • Keep seacocks for cockpit drains open, but close those not associated with water removal, like engine intakes. • Plug exhaust ports to prevent flooding should snow pile up and force them underwater. Remove plugs prior to use. • Tie off or secure steering wheels/tillers. • If your wet slip is prone to freezing, installation of a bubbler or propeller-style deicer is recommended. • Be aware that boats stored in the water are vulnerable to damage from water level extremes, strong winds and snow; plan to check on your boat before, during (if possible to do so safely) and after the winter storm. ★

PHOTO BY DAVEY NIN

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P HOTO BY BAGGI S

Protect your boat before a winter storm blows in.



ELECTRONICS

New electronics to look out for in 2019. Raymarine’s Axiom with Augmented Reality

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ith recent unveilings of new technology and improvements to existing tech, it looks as if onboard electronics will be better than ever in 2019. Boaters can look forward to sounders offering real-time viewing of what is around the boat, improved charting and even augmented reality while navigating.

Garmin’s BlueChart g3 cartography

GLENN HAYES is a marine writer and photographer whose background in the marine industry and in marine electronics spans almost three decades and many thousands of miles at sea traveling the world. He can be reached at HAYESSTUDIOS.COM .

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Sonar Garmin recently introduced Pantopix LiveScope, the next step in its Pantopix line. This new technology provides real-time views of what’s going on around your boat with a clarity not previously seen. With forward and down view capabilities from the same transducer and at ranges up to 200 feet (dependent on depth and water clarity) you can see fish and structure while the boat is stationary or moving. With this technology you can even see a fish strike your lure as you work it below the surface. The real-time detail is so good you can’t help but feel like you’re cheating a little. This option can be added to many of Garmin’s multifunction displays and adds a whole new dimension to fish finding. Watch for other manufacturers to debut their own versions of this technology.

Cartography With Garmin’s recent acquisition of Navionics, a leader in marine electronic charting and navigation, it was just a matter of time before Garmin’s already excellent and easy-to-read cartography would be combined with the highly detailed and wide coverage of Navionics cartography. The new BlueChart g3 and Lakevu g3 will combine the best of both forms of cartography. These products were announced at the Navigation 2018 Fort Lauderdale Raymarine introduced new International Boat Show navigation capability at the 2018 in October by Dan Bartel, International BoatBuilders’ Garmin’s worldwide Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) Garmin’s president of consumer sales. in October. Clear Cruise AR is an Pantopix LiveScope. Bartel said during the announcement: “We all-new augmented reality addition didn’t stop there: Our premium g3 cartography to Raymarine’s Lighthouse operating software for the Axiom line of multifunction displays. This will also include built-in Auto Guidance technology — a new feature allows navigation objects to be overlaid directly feature previously only available with an accessory card.” on Axiom’s high-definition video display. All of this will be offered in several of its head units preloaded “at no additional cost to consumers,” Bartel said. By offering real-time data above each object, the If you already have a newer Garmin model display with navigator can make informed decisions and enjoy far cartography capability you can purchase the new g3 Vision greater situational awareness. The boater needs to have cartography with not only the Navionics combination the Lighthouse 3.7 or newer software loaded in their but also added features, such as high-resolution satellite Axiom displays, an AHRS sensor to stabilize the image imagery and 3D rendered views above and below the surface and Raymarine’s cameras to display the video image on known as Marinerseye and Fisheye. Aerial photography the display screen. of major ports, inlets and other points of navigational Once set up, all the navigator has to do is activate the interest are also included. AR display and customize types of targets displayed and a maximum range of targets. The navigator can then All of this data is accessible from one of Garmin’s BlueChart g3 Vision or LakeVu g3 Ultra accessory rollover the “flags” or display boxes to see more information cards. Newer models, such as the new GPSMAP 8600/ about the target. If they click on the flag, more detailed 8600xsv, will be the first to offer the BlueChart g3 information and options will be displayed. cartography preloaded and will be available in the first The above-mentioned advancements are just the beginning of new technology that boaters can expect to quarter of 2019. Not to be outdone by its competitor, Navico — see in 2019. There is no doubt that manufacturers are the parent company of Simrad, Lowrance and B&G working hard to make products that enhance your time — also introduced updated cartography through its on the water while making you wonder how you ever acquisition of C-Map. managed without them. ★

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GARMIN

Latest and Greatest

P HOTO COURT E SY OF R AY M A R I N E

BY G L E N N H AY E S



SAFETY FIRST BY HE L E N A IT K E N

Fire Extinguisher ABCs Be prepared for a fire with the proper type of extinguisher. he most common house fire occurs in the kitchen. I’ve had three “minor” disasters on the stove. One was smothered with a large pot lid and one needed my kitchen fire extinguisher. Because I forgot to replace the extinguisher, the last one needed the fire extinguisher destined to go on the boat. It was a Class A-B-C type that worked beautifully but created a mess. Fires result from the chemical reaction between a fuel, oxygen and a heat source. Not all fires are the same; certain types of fire extinguishers fight different types of fire. Besides water and foam, fire extinguishers may contain carbon dioxide, a dry or wet chemical, or halogen gas. The water type is ineffective for a grease fire and could spread it, while a dry powder for metal fires is ineffective on other kinds of fires. How they work Like an aerosol can, materials in a fire extinguisher are contained under pressure. Squeeze the handle to release the propellant and expel the material to remove oxygen or heat needed for combustion. Can partially expelled fire extinguishers be used again? In theory, yes. Is it recommended? No. Nozzles tend to get clogged or the pressure inside the canister can drop, leaving a poorly pressurized spray. It’s best to fully deplete the extinguisher over the fire area and then replace it with a new extinguisher.

HELEN AITKEN is a boating writer, photographer and science educator from eastern North Carolina. She loves classic wooden boats, is a U.S. Power Squadrons member and plays in the Intracoastal Waterway. Visit her website at AITKENHELEN.COM.

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Extinguisher types Class A is for combustibles, like paper, wood, cloth and some plastics. Class B extinguish flammable liquids like gasoline. Class C works on energized electrical equipment, motors, transformers and computers. Class D is for specialized metals, like magnesium or potassium used in industrial areas. Class K extinguish cooking oils and grease — great for a galley. The Coast Guard requires vessels up to 26 feet to have one B-1 fire extinguisher onboard for extinguishing flammable liquids like gasoline, oils and solvents. The larger the boat, the more extinguishers are required. However, it’s advantageous to have a fire extinguisher that can put out more than one type of fire, so most boaters buy an A-B-C type. What to look for Check the extinguisher’s label for the contents and the type of fire it will extinguish, then read the directions for usage and storage. The label indicates the manufacturer’s name, origin (many are manufactured in Mexico), warranty and expiration date. Always check your extinguishers against any recall list. Some extinguishers are rechargeable while others are

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disposable. Never buy one with this year’s expiration date — many have a several-year shelf life, even up to 12 years. Inspection Inspect fire extinguishers annually; however, monthly is even better and each model is different. Look for cracks and corrosion, and examine the valve, safety pin and nozzle for defects. Many portable extinguishers have pressure gauges. When the needle is in the green zone, it’s fully charged. Handle and store carefully. As it approaches “old age,” it can be hydrostatically tested for shell integrity, recharged for a fee and used for a few more years if it holds up under high pressure. However, most portable extinguishers are inexpensive enough not to recharge. Depending on the manufacturer, type and size, an A-B-C, five-pound canister fire extinguisher costs around $40. Test your extinguisher Fire extinguishers are heavier than they look. Practice lifting it and aiming at an imaginary fire. Do not pull the pin or squeeze the lever, which will break the seal; over time pressure is lost and it may not work as well as it should. If you’ve never used a fire extinguisher, check with your local fire department, U.S. Power Squadrons or Coast Guard Auxiliary for a demonstration or class. To use, “PASS” it on. P: Pull the pin. A: Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire from a safe distance. S: Squeeze the lever to spray. S: Sweep the nozzle from side to side until the fire is out. Finally, remember to stay calm. Clean-up Fire extinguisher clean-up can be dangerous. Protect your clothing, hands, eyes, nose and mouth. Ash and noxious gases can be dangerous. When the ash is cold, brush or vacuum the powder, dump it in a sealed plastic bag and use a damp cloth to wipe off any residue. Final tips Take the extinguisher out of the box before placing it in an accessible location. Purchase fire extinguishers for topside and below deck. Portable extinguishers are meant to handle small fires. If a fire cannot be contained, leave and call for help. Make sure the extinguisher is completely empty before recycling the steel container. Lastly, when you deplete your fire extinguisher or it expires, buy another one. I’m glad I did. For more information, visit FEMALIFESAFETY.ORG. ★

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/AIRMAN 1ST CLASS MONICA ROYBAL

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Gulf Harbour Marina

Located on the Intracoastal Waterway in South Ft. Myers Florida

Gulf Harbour Marina is the “Destination of Choice” for many Midwest boaters! This 186-slip yacht basin has docks from 38' to 97'. Cruise the protected waterways to the islands of Sanibel, Captiva and Boca Grande. Experience the marinas, resorts, restaurants, bays and beaches or cruise the Gulf of Mexico to Ft. Myers Beach, Naples or the Florida Keys.

Gulf Harbour Properties LLC • Marina Boat Slips for Sale: 38', 48', 50', 60', 70' and T-Docks • Over 20 neighborhoods homes & condos available at $150,000 to over $5 million • Equity Country Club memberships available: 18 hole championship golf course, tennis complex, Spa-Fitness Center, Waterside Grille and Johnny Brown’s waterfront restaurants • Only 5 miles to Beach Islands and 30 minutes to International Airport

Call Us... We are former Midwest GREG & JO CALLAWAY residents and Great Lakes cruisers who have lived in Gulf Harbour for over 21 years, and own a slip for our boat.

GulfHarbourProperties.com

239-851-8783 • Greg@GulfHarbour Properties.com

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BENEATH THE SURFACE BY HE AT H E R ST E IN B E R GE R

To Be a Polar Bear How one boy’s challenge became a beloved Door County tradition. ome people say the experience is refreshing, recharging, invigorating. Others say it’s just plain crazy. Every winter, thousands of intrepid Great Lakes residents and visitors gather on snowy, otherwise deserted beaches, steel themselves for what’s admittedly going to be a stunning shock, and then leap into the frigid water. They make the plunge on New Year’s Day and on designated weekends both earlier and later in the year. They raise money for charities. They celebrate the occasion with family and friends. They call themselves polar bears.

Top: Jon Jarosh, J.R. Jarosh and friend John Wickstrom pose during the first swim in 1986. Below: J.R. (in his signature tux) and Jon (in oversized glasses) pose on January 1, 2018, during the Jacksonport Polar Bear Plunge.

From family bet to feature film Polar bear clubs and “polar bear plunge” fundraisers abound in the Great Lakes, and they all have unique origin stories. Perhaps one of the most interesting belongs to the Jacksonport Polar Bear Club, which makes its home on the quiet side of Wisconsin’s Door County, on the Lake Michigan shoreline north of Sturgeon Bay. It started with a family bet in the early 1980s, when a 11-year-old boy bet his father that he would beat him in a local October fun run. The stakes were high: Whoever lost had to swim in the lake. “My dad was maybe 38 or 39, which was so old to us,” says J.R. Jarosh, who now owns Door County’s Edgewood Orchard Galleries with his wife, Nell. With a chuckle, he adds, “My friend and I had no doubt that we’d beat him.” They didn’t beat him, and they paid the price. The water didn’t feel that bad to Jarosh, and he wondered if he could swim in Lake Michigan every month of the year. In December 1986, he put that idea to the test. “It was cold, but fun,” Jarosh says. “My mom wouldn’t let my dad or my brother do it with me, so in ’86, ’87 and ’88, it was just me.” The tide was about to turn, however. Jarosh invited

Tips for 2019 Polar Bears As Jacksonport Polar Bear Club founder J.R. Jarosh says, you can “do this poorly, or make it more comfortable!” A few important tips for first-timers: n Wear old tennis shoes or aqua socks, and consider wearing old socks as well. If there’s ice, you don’t want to look like you were in a slasher movie. n Bring warm boots or shoes, and put them on as soon as you’re out of the water. Otherwise, you might be facing a miserable walk back to the car. n Likewise, you don’t want to stay in your swimwear for long. J.R. Jarosh says his tuxedo stood up by itself last year. n Use an old blanket to create your own beach station for post-swim shoes, clothing and towels. It’ll help keep your gear together, and guarantee that you and your swimsuit won’t freeze to the ground later. n Bring safety straps for your glasses, or leave them on shore. n Arrive early to get a parking spot close to the swim area. You’ll appreciate it later. n Have fun! This is a moment to savor. JACKSONPORTPOLARBEARCLUB.COM

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local reporter Heidi Reiche (now Heidi Hodges, editor in chief of Door County Magazine) to join him on January 1, 1989. His brother, Jon (now director of communications and public relations for the Door County Visitors Bureau), brought the grand total of swimmers to three. By 2000, the Jacksonport Polar Bear Club was routinely attracting a couple hundred swimmers each New Year’s Day. As it grew, it managed to catch the eye of Hollywood; in 2009, a production team chose to use the polar bear plunge as the climax for an independent film titled “Feed the Fish.” Written and directed by Green Bay native Michael Matzdorff and executive-produced by fellow Wisconsinite and Emmy award-winning actor Tony Shalhoub, the 92-minute film (available through Amazon) tells the story of a burned-out children’s book author who struggles to find inspiration in Door County as his writing career and relationship fall apart. Not only can you see iconic peninsula destinations, like the Skyway Drive-In and Ellison Bay’s Viking Grill, you’ll be able to experience the Jacksonport Polar Bear Plunge vicariously. And in the midst of the excited crowd on screen, you’ll see Jarosh leading the charge into Lake Michigan, clad in his signature tuxedo. Unforgettable, in every way Jarosh says he started wearing a bow tie on the 10th anniversary of the plunge, adding a cummerbund five years later. He elected to wear a full tuxedo for the 20th anniversary, and he’s worn it ever since. His brother also developed a signature look. “[Jon’s] quite a character, with his oversized sunglasses and polar bear robe,” Jarosh says with a laugh. “We encourage costumes, because… well, why wouldn’t you?” Today, the Jacksonport Polar Bear Plunge is a beloved holiday tradition that draws 600 to 800 polar bears; despite its size, it remains a family affair at heart. Three generations of Jarosh’s family ring in the new year at the beach, from his father to his 12-year-old twin daughters. “My dad came out of retirement when the kids were old enough to participate,” Jarosh says. “They were always intrigued by it, and now they’re in their third year.” This year’s plunge is scheduled for noon on Tuesday, January 1, 2019 at Jacksonport’s Lakeside Park. The plunge is free, although groups are welcome to fundraise for their own causes. “There are no strings attached,” Jarosh notes. “Every swimmer gets a certificate and a club membership card; we sell shirts and hats to help pay our expenses. We also collect donated non-perishables for the local food pantry.”

PH OTOS COURTESY OF JACKSONPORT POLAR BEAR CLU B ARCHIVES

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Swimmers usually start arriving by 11 a.m. to get favorable parking spots (see sidebar), enjoy refreshments and relish the intimate, neighborhood-festival atmosphere. The main event starts at 11:59 a.m., when the DJ amps up the crowd with a rousing rendition of House of Pain’s “Jump Around.” “It helps your adrenaline,” Jarosh says. Then the final 10-second countdown begins. Hundreds of people dig deep as they prepare to face water temperatures that hover around freezing and wind chills that might fall below zero. Part of something bigger Fortunately, despite these hardcore Up North winter conditions, the first responders on scene have never been needed. According to Jarosh, the same number of swimmers have entered and exited the water each year, under their own power — his favorite statistic. He also notes that the polar bears’ experiences seem to be overwhelmingly positive, as each swimmer finds whatever he or she might be seeking. “We get all sorts of people,” he says. “Some are just fun-loving. Others have been through something hard and want a fresh start in the new year. We’ve had a couple of proposals. We’ve had basketball teams go in together. They all want to start their year with something memorable.” Sometimes the plunge brings polar bears from other clubs: Sheboygan, Milwaukee, New York’s Coney Island, even as far away as Poland. “I had been corresponding with a club in Gdansk, and one of its members was doing a residency in Michigan,” Jarosh says. “He drove all the way from Ann Arbor to Jacksonport to do the plunge with us.” He says people approach him all the time to talk about polar bear plunges in general, and the Jacksonport plunge in particular. “It’s humbling,” he says. “I was a goofy kid, just wondering if I could do it. I’m honored to be part of this, something that’s so much bigger than me and my family.” Jarosh hasn’t missed a single polar bear plunge at Lakeside Park. On New Year’s Day, he’ll be at the park in his tuxedo, once again, ready to go for a swim with hundreds of fellow polar bears. As he notes on the club’s website, “Any idiot can throw himself in freezing water, but it takes a real polar bear to do it 32 years in a row.” ★

Find a Polar Plunge Near You! It doesn’t matter if you choose your plunge based on date, proximity, eagerly anticipated festivities or signature charity — the right event for you is out there. In case you need ideas: ■ Lake Superior Duluth Polar Plunge: This popular event takes place on February 16, 2019. Fundraising is a requirement for entry, with proceeds supporting Special Olympics Minnesota. PLUNGEMN. ORG/EVENTS/DULUTH

■ Lake Huron Kiwanis Polar Bear Plunge: This annual Kiwanis Club of Port Huron fundraiser won’t happen until early December 2019, giving you plenty of time to steady your nerves for the big day. SCKIWANIS.COM ■ Lake Erie Sandusky Polar Plunge: Offering an alternative for those with New Year’s Day plans, this event is scheduled for January 26, 2019. Fundraising supports Special Olympics Ohio. SANDUSK YPOLARPLUNGE .ORG ■ Lake Ontario Courage Polar Bear Dip: This annual New Year’s Day event in Oakville, Ontario, is Canada’s largest charitable polar bear plunge, and it was named one of the top five in the world by the Boston Globe. It raises funds to support clean water projects. POLARBEARDIP.CA ■ Lake Michigan Chicago Polar Plunge: Organized 17 years ago by what is now the Chicago Polar Bear Club, this New Year’s Day plunge benefits nominated families in need. SOCHICAGO.

HEATHER STEINBERGER is an award-winning writer/ editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 20 years. Visit her website at

ENMOTIVE .COM/POLAR-PLUNGE

WRITEONLLC.COM.

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BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KE N K R E ISL E R

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 59'1" Beam: 15'7"

Ciao Bella!

Draft: 5'3" Fuel Capacity: 687 gals.

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Water Capacity: 155 gals. Base Price: Contact dealer AZIMUTYACHTS.COM

DEALERS MarineMax Port Clinton MARINEMAX.COM

419-797-4492 Pride Marine Group PRIDEMARINEGROUP.COM

800-991-3006

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Azimut S6

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ou don’t have to speak Italian to say hello to this beauty from Azimut. Don’t expect anything less than the very best in yacht building from the company founded by Paola Vitelli in 1969. Recently launched at the 2018 Cannes Yachting festival, the S6 is Azimut’s newest take on sporty, elegant yachting. “The S6 follows the highly successful 55S but is completely updated with stunning, newly designed interiors and a spacious galley,” says Keith Taynor of MarineMax Port Clinton. One is immediately drawn to her sleek profile with designer Stefano Righini’s signature diamond-shape deck windows along with the six square hull panes. Elegance and Azimut have always gone hand in hand and the sporty S6 takes it to new heights. From her swim platform and tender garage to the dual seating areas on the bow to the spectacular interior, the S6 is an adrenaline rush. Comfortable transom seating adjoins a dining space to starboard and a wetbar to port. Enter into the main salon via a wide stainless steel and glass door. The main salon

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features seating to starboard with an entertainment console and galley to port. Forward and to starboard is the well-laid out, two-seat helm with all controls, switches and touch screens within easy sight and reach. Surrounded by large windows and an expansive overhead, electrically actuated sunroof, ambient light pours into this space. A centerline stairway leads to the sumptuous threestateroom, two-head layout, with an ensuite master amidships, starboard twin and forepeak VIP — all offering that extraordinary Azimut spin on Italian luxury. The master has an angled queen-size bed positioned in the starboard size for maximum walkaround space and two lounge chairs to port. Built with carbon fiber and fiberglass, the S6 is powered by triple Volvo IPS 700 D8 550-hp inboards with a top-end of up to 35 knots and a cruising speed of up to 30 knots. Vitelli’s promise was to always put the client first. With the S6, there is no doubt Azimut has continued honoring that pledge. ★


BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY K EN K REI SL ER

Crownline E285 XS

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 27'10" Beam: 8'5"

Crowning achievement.

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ccupying an upper level position as one of the industry’s outstanding manufacturer of sport boats, bowriders, deckboats, cuddy cabins and cruisers, it’s no wonder Crownline’s new Eclipse E285 XS is already turning heads. “Crownline is very excited about the recent release of the new E285 XS, and she is getting a lot of attention at early boat shows,” says Crownline’s Amy Turner. “The ‘Ultimate Dayboat’ for model year 2019 has something for everyone. Performance, luxury, cruising, watersports or grilling, this boat checks off a lot of boxes.” From her rakish arch and curvy sheerline to F.A.S.T. Tab performance, the E285 XS is one exciting package. Crownline has melded its bowrider and deckboat designs to offer more than ample space for a boat in her size class. Stepping aboard via the swim platform is safe and easy, and the ample cockpit is well-equipped with transom and portside seating areas. The aft seat is electrically operated and easily transforms into a large sunpad. To starboard is a grilling station and refrigerator — a handy dining table stored below decks in the ski locker deploys effortlessly.

Draft: 22"/38" Weight (dry): 5,705 lbs.

Forward of that is the helm, offering a comfortable bucket seat and Raymarine 7-inch touch screen with digital gauges, engine information and sonar. An additional bucket seat is to port. The walk-through windshield leads to the bow area where comfortable seating awaits. You’ll find ample storage areas here for hiding toys, life jackets, towels and more. The standard fold-down electric arch comes with Suntop and Hang Tyte Canvas, and the port head compartment features a handheld shower and electric toilet. Centerpiece of Crownline’s standard Social Swim Transom Design are two of the eight Wet Sounds speakers placed throughout the boat. She is powered by a standard, single Mercury 300 XL four-stroke outboard with DTS Controls and runs on Crownline’s proven F.A.S.T. Tab hull design for more control at slow speeds and reduced drag for fuel efficiency. All these features combined provide a safe and comfortable ride. The new E285 XS has it all: Excitement, reliability and safety. H

Fuel Capacity: 75 gals. Max Power: 350 hp Base Price: Contact dealer CROWNLINE .COM

DEALERS Fox Lake Harbor FOXLAKEHARBOR.COM

847-587-0200 Lakeside Motor Sports LAKESIDEMOTOR SPORTS.NET

231-972-4146 Dewitt Marine DEWITTMARINE .COM

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

231-377-6611

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BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY KE N K R E ISL E R

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 62'11" Beam: 16'

Royal treatment.

Draft: 4'9" Fuel Capacity: 858 gals. Water Capacity: 159 gals. Base Price: Contact dealer PRINCESSYACHTS.COM

DEALERS Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales Michigan; Wisconsin; Illinois; Indiana; Ohio JBYS.COM

866-490-5297 Pride Marine Group Ontario PRIDEMARINE GROUP.COM

800-991-3006

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dding to its already fine lineup of quality cruising yachts, Princess Yachts offers a new 60-footer packed with all the amenities usually found on larger vessels. “The S60 combines the best of performance, luxury and space,” says Ron Silvia, Princess brand manager and VP of sales for Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales. “With the sleek lines of an express cruiser coupled with the features and versatility of a flybridge, this 60-foot Princess is sure to impress.” The wide swim platform offers safe and easy access and includes a tender garage and stairs to the aft deck on either side. Once there, look for a large transom sunpad, a seating and dining table aft, ample cockpit space, a convenient flybridge stairway to port, and a dramatic entry into the salon via wide stainless steelframed glass doors. In true Princess fashion, the salon presents beautiful cabinetry and a comfortable space for entertaining. With a wide-open area courtesy of a 16-foot beam, the interior features a portside galley (an open window

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aft allows for food service) a dinette table to starboard and an entertainment console just forward. The lower helm — offering a pair of seats for the captain and copilot — is to starboard, while yet another seating/ dining area lies directly opposite. Accommodations include a luxurious full-beam master suite and a pair of well-appointed guest staterooms, all offering plenty of storage space, ensuite heads, and the kind of fit and finish, and attention to detail Princess is known for. Topsides, on the expansive bridge deck, the double seat helm is to port with additional seating opposite and aft, including a dining table. Fully forward on the bow is a seating area accompanied by a large sunpad. Admire her head-turning profile with its sculpted finish on the outside. Surround yourself with her elegant interior décor. And enjoy the excitement of 30 knot cruising, with 36 knot top-speed delivered by a pair of 1,200-hp MAN V8 inboard diesels. Whatever you do, the Princess S60 will have you and your guests feeling like true royalty. ★


BOAT SPOTLIGHT BY K EN K REI SL ER

Riviera 39 Sports Motor Yacht

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 39'6" Beam: 13'9"

Good on ya, mate!

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ince 1980, Australian boatbuilder Riviera has enjoyed an impressive, rapid rise to prominence and lives up to its reputation with the new 39 Sports Motor Yacht (SMY). “The all-new 39 SMY is a true culmination of everything Riviera,” says Matt Mrozinski of Lake Michigan Yacht Sales. “From the finest woodwork in the industry to the use of the latest technology to on-water performance, the 39 SMY checks every box — and then some.” The 39 SMY’s meticulously and expertly hand-laid fiberglass hull is fit with a crash bulkhead forward. With her low profile, sleek lines and smooth running bottom, she offers a sea-proven pedigree and appealing versatility for a wide range of boaters. Cruising, weekends, extended time away from your home dock, or even a simple day trip, the 39 SMY and its abundant storage spaces delivers. With her short learning curve courtesy of IPS power and joystick control, the ease of getting her in and out of the dock will attract those moving up to a larger vessel. Getting on and off is easy from the standard swim platform.

Draft: 3'9" Weight: 28,219 lbs.

Once aboard, you’ll find outstanding features designed for comfort and entertaining. The large platform-accessed console conveniently stows lines and fenders. The top-mounted grill and sink frees up cockpit space for extra seating to accompany the portside seat and hi-low table. Put a pair of cushions on top and you have a convenient sunpad. Inside you’ll find a raised dinette to port, the helm just forward with seating opposite, and a galley to starboard. Large windows abound, and the aft port window opens to the cockpit. Finishing things off are the two staterooms (forepeak master and mid-cabin guest quarters), a one-head layout offering comfortable quarters, a full Bimini flybridge and a two-person sunpad/chaise area in the bow. “Riviera did another amazing job with the 39 Sports Motor Yacht,” says Bay Marine’s Mark Felhofer. “Incorporating Riviera’s quality and performance in a boat under 40 feet is not an easy task but they achieved it with great success.” Fine fit and finish, solid construction and a broad list of options can make the 39 Sports Motor Yacht a very personal statement of ownership. H

Fuel Capacity: 396 gals. Water Capacity: 103 gals. Power: 2x Volvo D6 IPS-600 Base Price: Contact dealer RIVIERAAUSTRALIA.COM

DEALERS Bay Marine BAYMARINE .NET

847-336-2628; 920-743-6526 Lake Michigan Yacht Sales LAKEMICHIGANYACHT SALES.COM

231-439-2675 Onekama Marine ONEK AMAMARINE .COM

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

231-889-5000

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BOAT TEST

TIARA

BY CHUCK WARREN

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TIARA

GAME TWO OF TIARA’S DOUBLEHEADER.


BOAT TEST

SPORT 34 LS

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s I drove out to Tiara’s Corporate Yachting Center in Holland, Michigan, in mid-August, I passed a group of kids playing baseball in a local park. While most people might have thought about an upcoming Major League ball game, my thoughts were focused on the brand-new Tiara I was headed to see: The Tiara Sport 34 LS. With the successful launch of the 38 LS, or Luxury Sport, in 2017, Tiara made a big splash in the dayboat market. Sporty enough to pull skiers or tubes, the LS series is also loaded with enough options to entertain family and friends at the dock or on the hook, and can provide comfortable overnight accommodations away from home base. What would you do after hitting a home run with the bases loaded? If you’re Tiara Sport, you step up to the plate again and swing for the fences. This year, game two of Tiara’s doubleheader featured the release of the new 34 LS. The smaller sibling to the 38-footer features the same luxury options and abilities in a size that new boaters and single-handers may find more accessible.

BATTER UP

Walking down the dock, I could see the distinct lines of the 34 LS where it sat in the slip. With a raked-back windshield, dynamic stance and fluid lines, the boat looks like it’s rounding the bases even when sitting still. Twin Yamaha outboards mounted at the transom play into the boat’s sporty persona, and accent colors that match the hull add a nice touch. The outboards are a break from tradition for Tiara; however, the boatbuilder has been working to unlock the recipe that balances performance and luxury in a sportier vessel, and the Yamaha outboards provide the perfect ingredient. To step aboard the 34 LS, I had my choice of paths from the dock into the cockpit. The wide step pads on either side of the swim platform create easy access at the transom, while a stepped access pad on the port side allows boarding from a higher dock. The two options make entry a breeze no matter how high or low the water level may be. Nicely curved grabrails are everywhere you look but blend in well, providing safety without disrupting the boat’s beautiful lines. Pop-up cleats also add to the clean look.

SAFE AT FIRST

At the helm, the wide, comfortable bench converts to individual captain and crew seating, with fold-down armrests between each. Simple but thoughtful details stand out at the helm, including teak and leather accents, USB charging ports and several storage areas for personal electronics. An opening hatch in the hardtop allows fresh air and sunlight in from above. The console provides plenty of information and controls from Garmin glass panels and overhead Yamaha engine displays. Yamaha’s optional Helm Master system provides joystick control and superior maneuverability for new boaters and old salts alike. Comfortably placed controls and exceptional visibility make operating the 34 LS a joy. The forward seating area, accessible via the wide starboard walkway, quickly became my favorite space on the boat. With room for four or more, the comfortable seating hides the bow table and can also store an optional Mediterranean sunshade. The space includes controls for the Fusion system, USB charging ports and plenty of cup holders. The bow seating area is also surprisingly quiet; even at cruising speeds, normal conversations are possible while running across Lake Michigan at 35 mph.

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The 34 LS includes a fairly simple design feature, but one that became another favorite of mine: A finished cut-out along the starboard side provides easily accessible storage that keeps dock lines or boat poles within reach.

STOLEN BASE

The cockpit space was purpose-built for entertaining guests on the water, not just for laying in the sun. Behind the forward cockpit seating, a sink and hidden trash can are easily accessible and provide plenty of serving space when covered. A cold storage drawer and a cutout designed for a 45-quart cooler below the helm seating provide plenty of room for refreshments. The rear cockpit seating hides the boat’s secret superpower. Release the latch and the rear seat slides forward to meet the front bench and create a dining area for six to eight guests. Or sun worshipers can fold down the backrest and join the two seats into a large, comfortable sunpad. Slid forward, the seat also leaves plenty of open space at the rear of the deck for entertaining guests or easy water access.

ROUNDING THIRD

Tiara did not skimp on creature comforts in the cabin either. Through the sliding cabin door, teak steps lead past a storage cabinet hiding the electrical panel, environmental controls and stereo. The roomy cabin features a full-size bed, surprising headroom and LED lighting throughout, which makes it feel like a much larger cabin. To starboard, the private head with integrated shower is also roomy and well lit. A hullside window opens to let fresh air in as needed, while a large mirror, more LED lighting and storage in the countertop create the perfect spot to freshen up. The 34 LS offers lots of optional equipment, including generator power, a cockpit TV, a rear Makefast sunshade, helm heat and air, and cockpit enclosures, among a long list of customizations. However, right out of the box the boat includes a long list of standard features. Tiara’s new addition to the LS series is close in size and shape to last year’s 38-footer, but there is a place for both. At 34 feet, the boat feels a little more manageable than her bigger sibling with a little less to feed and maintain. Something about the 34 LS feels like you can take an unannounced afternoon off and jump aboard for a spur of the moment blast down the lakeshore all alone.

A HOME RUN

After the dockside tour, we cast off and slid the 34 LS out of the Tiara docks before cruising past Holland’s landmark lighthouse, Big Red, on our way toward the Lake Michigan depths. On the lake, we were greeted by perfect conditions with water so calm we never turned on the optional Seakeeper system. A tap on the throttles brought the boat up on plane with ease as we cruised south at 38 mph and watched the West Michigan dunes flow past. Wide-open, the 34 LS pushes along at 51 mph at 6000 rpm. The twin 350-hp Yamaha outboards are perfectly matched to the 34 LS, giving the boat quick response to requests from the helm and enough performance to make the boat skip across the water like a stone. The ride and handling were agile, responsive and smooth, allowing the 34 LS to show off both designations — luxury and sport — with style and ease. The outboard-powered LS models are obviously here to stay. With the 34 LS added to the lineup, Tiara Sport stepped up to the plate and once again, knocked one over the fence and right out of the park. ★

TIARA SPORT 34 LS Specifications LOA: 34'9" Beam: 11' Draft: 3'1" Weight: 13,800 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 200 gals. Water Capacity: 30 gals. Base Price: Contact dealer

Dealers SkipperBud’s SKIPPERBUDS.COM

Walstrom Marine WALSTROM.COM

TIARASPORT.COM

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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BOAT TEST

Glastron GTDW 225

Surfing and fishing machine.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GLASTRON

BY A L A N W E N D T

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Glastron 225 GTDW SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 24'2" Beam: 8'6"

DEALERS

SkipperBud’s SKIPPERBUDS.COM

800-636-2628

Draft: 3' Weight (w/ engine): 4,250 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 52 gals.

Spicer’s Boat City SPICERSBOATCITY.COM

989-366-8400

Max Power: 300 hp Base Price: $62,133 GLASTRON.COM

Ravenna Marine RAVENNAMARINE .COM

330-296-5590

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Someday I expect the GPS voice navigator to replace that annoying “recalculating” with, “Oh! I see we’ve arrived in Traverse City, Michigan; shall I adjust your course to the Glastron plant in nearby Cadillac via the Traverse City Pie Company?” Of my many vices, cherry cobbler is at the top of the list, and to reach Glastron, you fly through Traverse City. Hence my motto, never turn down a boat test here — unless it’s January, when the water is just a bit hard and most everyone has left town for sunnier climates like Sarasota. So, here in the land of palm trees, blackened grouper sandwiches and eternal sun, we embark on the new 2019 Glastron GTDW 225, a combination surf and fish runabout. In the quest to build boats that satisfy short recreational attention spans, Glastron packaged the newest craze, surfing, with a boat that in moments becomes a well-appointed fishing vessel, while always serving up comfort for those simply seeking escape from the hustle and bustle.

Surf on Rated for 13 passengers — and mind you that’s a lot of legs and bodies in a 24-foot frame — Glastron has deftly arranged ample seating in the bow, around the skipper and aft, closer to the surf action, without discomfort. Powered by a Volvo V6-280C 300-hp Forward Drive, standard surf tabs, and an optional but highly recommended Zero Off GPS Speed Control, we consistently produced acceptable surfing waves. With

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each pass in Sarasota Bay, I got better at adjusting the length and height of the wave. For a decade, Zero Off has been standard on most competitive tow boats. Input from satellites and Volvo’s engine management system do all the math work, eliminating calculations for the skier weight, the number of bodies onboard, or even wind adjustment; you simply set the desired speed and go. As for speed, we were on plane in six seconds, hit 30 mph a second later and achieved a top speed of 46 mph. Bring along more friends and of course those numbers will vary. Some practice is necessary to compensate while throttling down since the feeling can be rather abrupt. Our test boat included the optional hinging wakeboard tower. This folds down for towing or storage in the garage, is minimalistic in appearance, and accommodates a pair of wakeboard tower racks helping to keep the deck open and free from clutter. A two-step, scalloped swim platform trimmed in MarineMat and with a concealed swim ladder creates an inviting appearance. The color combo is picked up throughout the boat with two-tone vinyl, a bamboo table and a Surf and Fish graphics package that is rich, not loud like some tow boats. Loud? Did someone say crank up the music? Four speakers are standard, with the Kicker AM/FM, MP3 port and Bluetooth connectivity entertainment package. An optional stereo subwoofer, aft remote and lighting package can rock any party cove. For the family angler, the optional fishing package


includes a baitwell, a bow casting platform, fish seats, a trolling motor and a mounting plate that connects through a pre-wired 24V fixture. Plenty of dedicated storage — including space for a carry-on cooler, a built-in cooler under the bench seat, expected under-seating storage for purses, beach bags and that all-important bag of Doritos, not to mention copious cupholders — probably leave you wondering if they threw in the kitchen sink. In the cockpit, there is room for a porta-potti (or optional pump-out) and a privacy curtain. Really there is no excuse to go back to the dock early, this boat is rigged for dusk-to-dawn family fun.

Smooth ride Glastron engineers the legendary Super Stable Vee® hull design. The result is a boat that’s quick to plane, with minimal bowrise and tracks tight in turns. When you walk the boat show aisles this winter, take a look at the Super Stable Vee® hull’s wide reverse chines. Under power they create a bank of water that provides added lift and better precision in turns. Glastron has an even wider hull chine that extends far forward. These extended chines reduce rocking from side-to-side while giving passengers more space in the bow for the lounge seats. Extra room above the waterline translates into a concealed anchor locker and bow anchor roller, stainless steel bow ladder and other thoughtful touches, like USB charging ports concealed under the gunnels adjacent to the recessed cup holders.

Another charging point at the helm is standard. Glastron anti-fog multi-function gauges, GPS speedometer and tilt steering round out the helm. While most dayboaters won’t need a charting system, anglers can add a multifunction display with fish finder.

Volvo power We have pretty much leveled out in the switch from sterndrive to outboard power in this class of boat; Volvo owns the innovation for forward-facing drives, and they’ve managed to improve complete digital helm operation every year with Electronic Vessel Control. Volvo elected to keep GM power for its series of V6 sterndrive platforms. There are some power to weight ratio advantages, but the real fuel economy is a result of moving the fuel-injection point closer to the ignition source. Fuel burn is more complete, emissions are reduced, and fuel mixture can be leaner, requiring less fuel to produce equivalent horsepower. Engine operation temperature is lowered thanks to oil spray piston cooling, helping the lean fuel mix while promoting longer engine life. While the GTDW 225 offers three Volvo engine packages, your dealer has likely selected the best match based on local knowledge. Our test boat with the V6-280 passed the “blow your favorite Lakeland Boating hat off” with flying colors on the first pass. Sadly, the hat was lost at sea. For other boaters, the only thing you should lose is track of time aboard this Glastron fishing and surfing machine.

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Maritime traditions and federal law

Good Samaritans: Rules and Risks

What is a good Samaritan? By definition, a good Samaritan is “one who voluntarily renders aid to another in distress although under no duty to do so.” Centuries-old maritime traditions remain mostly intact, though today are supported by admiralty law and court case decisions, along with the Navigation Regulations and Rules of the Road relating to rendering assistance. It’s the “law of the sea” to help other boaters in need. However, and this is important, assistance by good Samaritans should only be rendered if it can be done without serious damage to each of the vessels and individuals aboard — i.e. safely done. Federal law states that: “Any person…who gratuitously and in good faith renders assistance at the scene of a vessel collision, accident or other casualty without objection of any person assisted, shall not be held liable for any act or omission in providing or arranging salvage, towage, medical treatment, or other assistance where the assisting person(s) acts as an ordinary, reasonable prudent person would have acted under the same or similar circumstances.” Further, a person rendering aid in a marine casualty, without objection by an individual assisted, is not liable for damages as a result, or for an act or omission in providing or arranging salvage, towage, medical treatment, or other assistance, when the individual acts reasonably. In summary, good Samaritan laws give a measure of legal cover to volunteers who in good faith provide reasonable assistance to those who are, or believe themselves to be, in peril or otherwise incapacitated. This protects good Samaritans in various situations of being sued, at least in the absence of gross negligence or acting recklessly; a rescue or an attempted rescue does not have to be successful, but whatever actions were taken need to be prudent.

State laws

The “law of the sea” says to help boaters in need, but what do federal and state laws and insurance providers have to say? by Joan Wenner, J.d. 44

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Similar to federal laws, many state laws applying to recreational boaters contain a “standard of care” — meaning care that avoids grossly negligent, reckless and wanton conduct that worsens the situation. Great Lakes states, including Minnesota, include language offering protection for giving “reasonable assistance” and “rendering assistance in good faith in unexpected situations.” Wisconsin provides immunity from civil liability under certain circumstances and normally

PH OTO COURTESY OF F LORIDA FISH & W ILDLIFE

oating offers fun and memorable experiences out on the water; however, it’s not so much fun if you’re running out of gas, having a mechanical breakdown, taking on water, running aground, striking a submerged object, having a medical issue or finding yourself in some other peril requiring on-water assistance. If a boater is in one of these situations and help is not nearby — except from another “good Samaritan” boater who acknowledges a mayday call or maybe even witnesses the predicament — should that good Samaritan volunteer to help, maybe at his or her own risk?

PHOTO COURTE SY OF BOATU. S .

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PHOTO COURTE SY OF U. S . COAST GUA RD

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where intervention is short and of an interim sort. These laws are construed liberally to encourage help if someone is able. Canadian rules require that you must respond and inform the sender if you receive a signal from a person or craft in distress in any waters and aid if possible.

Coast Guard comments

The Coast Guard office of boating safety recommends sending an alert with the disabled boat’s position, course and speed (if applicable), and the nature of the distress. The U.S. Coast Guard’s Rescue 21 distress system is now fully operational. For skippers who are in a position to assist with their type of craft, first try to judge the danger level for all involved before “standing into danger.” Can you offer advice and remain at the scene until the Coast Guard, marine patrol or commercial tower arrives? In one recent case, a recreational boater heard an alert along with the Coast Guard, and was vectored into the exact position of the boater in distress, found the boat and assisted until the authorities arrived. A common occurrence for a good Samaritan is throwing a tow rope to a disabled craft (in the absence of a serious accident or collision). For towing, virtually every state boating guide emphasizes special care. One example is of a helpful boater who stopped to tow a boat with engine problems about a half-mile back to shore in a light chop. Other boats were speeding by, a few in very close proximity, and not even slowing down. This situation, fortunately, ended well, but liability was a concern if something had gone wrong. And there have been plenty of these examples. A wise tip from Scott Croft of BoatU.S.: “Bring a disabled boat and its passengers to the closest dock or marina instead of running 10 miles down a stormy lake to bring the disabled boat back to its own slip — that’s still being a good Samaritan.”

policy language regarding ‘good Samaritan coverage’ and what, if any, terms apply.” If the policy language does not specifically exclude liability coverage here, then coverage would apply. Anderson also notes that if you’re involved in a collision, accident or casualty, Michigan law (similar to other Great Lakes states) requires that you shall render reasonable assistance, including medical and transport for necessary or apparently necessary treatment, or if requested to do so. A few words about “all-risk” policies that affect many insureds. Recovery is typically allowed for boat or boating equipment “fortuitous” losses (which has a number of interpretations in the legal arena), unless the loss is excluded by a specific policy provision; an insurer may limit the scope of its liability coverage and not provide coverage for every conceivable loss or damage to the insured property. For example, “accidental direct physical loss of or damage to the boat or boating equipment” can, trust me, be interpreted a host of different ways. A court may have to decide what is a reasonable interpretation of “accidental.” What did the policy intend or not intend to cover? That is what must be grappled with in certain cases.

Boat Insurance issues

Final notes

Towing

Marine insurance underwriters agree that when a policyholder aids another boater in a reasonable manner and damages result, liability coverage will often come to the fore. It needs to be noted that a boater’s claims record is very important now and can affect premium rates and can possibly cause renewal issues and loss surcharges. BoatU.S. reminds: “Once money changes hands for a routine tow, like a good Samaritan looking for some gas money, a good Sam is opened up to a world of liability they may not want in their lap.” You may even be personally liable in some towing situations, depending on your insurance policy, BoatU.S. advises. Global Marine Insurance’s Matt Anderson says: “Basically the owner of the vessel will need to read their own respective yacht/boat policy to see if there is a description within the

A particular case comes to mind where liability did apply. A new and inexperienced operator of a large boat encountered a grounded, slightly smaller craft. Both parties agreed to let the larger yacht tow the boat in need. In this instance, it did not go as planned, with significant damage to both boats (think hull integrity and running engines in shallow water). The helper here was not capable of rendering prudent aid and later lost in a court case. Before rendering good Sam aid, pause before putting your boat, yourself or others in harm’s way — especially if you’re a newer, inexperienced boater. With the Great Lakes area containing thousands of inland lakes, busy rivers and freshwater coastlines, you may very well encounter a good Samaritan situation at some point in time. If you decide to take on the task, always proceed with great caution. H LAKELANDBOATING.COM

oooooooooo Joan Wenner, J.D. is a longtime and widely published boating safety writer with a law degree. Comments or inquiries welcome to: JOAN _WRITER@ YAHOO.COM

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Plan Your Next Cruise Thinking about tossing the docklines and embarking on a Great Lakes adventure? Check out these tips and tricks before you go.

Overlooking our boat, Mazurka, on a hike at Stockton Island.

A hammock makes for a great reading spot underway.

Story and photos by Felicia Schneiderhan

a

s the snow and wind roar outside our Duluth, Minnesota, home in January, we like to imagine the summer ahead and epic cruises on Lake Superior. Planning a trip is often as much fun as the trip itself (or more fun, if you run into endless rotten weather). So to celebrate your midwinter boating adventure dreams, here’s a brief guide to planning your next cruise.

of Lake Michigan: From Chicago to Waukegan, Kenosha, Racine, Milwaukee and Port Washington. Now that we moor in Lake Superior, we like the north shore’s small village of Grand Marais, remote anchorages in the Susie Islands and the adventure of Sleeping Giant. Isle Royale is hard to beat for wilderness. The Apostles, we agree, are mythical; every island (there are 21, and some mainland) is different and worth exploring.

Take your pick

Start the planning

My husband, Mark, and I — and now our three kids, too — spend weeks each winter considering every location possible, no matter how far-flung. For example, the Slate Islands are my dream destination, but too far for us now, with kids ages eight, six and four, and a boat that goes six knots per hour. These dream destinations can be places we’ve visited before, like the Apostle Islands, or places we’ve seen from afar; after crossing from Isle Royale to Grand Marais, Minnesota, one year, we spied Sleeping Giant in the distance and knew we had to explore it the next year. Word of mouth often inspires us; marina neighbors or folks we’ve met underway will mention a harbor they particularly like, piquing our interest. We also learned about potential ports through reading; boating magazines pile our dining room table and social media boating groups offer plenty of suggestions. A quick post online asking for recommended Great Lakes ports received a handful of suggestions in less than an hour, including Trent-Severn and the Rideau Canal systems in Lake Ontario and the North Channel in Lake Huron. When we lived aboard our boat in Chicago, we loved urban harbor hopping up the west coast

Crossing the Border: From U. S. to Canada Planning ahead is crucial when crossing international waters. Make sure you have the proper documentation to cross. In addition, knowing the updated regulations and reporting requirements can simplify the border process; a lot of legwork can be completed before you ever leave home. To find the most current requirements, visit the Canadian Border Service Agency (CBSA) website (CBSA-ASFC.GC.CA). While most boaters arriving in Canada

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need to report promptly at a CBSAdesignated marine reporting site, special programs like the Remote Area Border Crossing program allow individuals to cross into Canada in remote areas (like the shore of Lake Superior) with a permit for a prespecified point of entry. To plan your return, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (CBP.GOV). With the new ROAM app, boaters can report their U.S. entry with a smartphone.

Once we have our dream list of destinations, we get realistic with logistics: How much time do we have and when can we go? A good rule of thumb for planning, according to Angèle Passe — who has sailed the Great Lakes (and beyond) with her husband, Jim, for more than three decades — is to allocate one-third of the trip to bad weather. That means if you have three weeks to travel, plan to go as far as you can in two weeks. It’s better to under-plan your distance than over-plan, Passe says, because if you’re under pressure to return in bad weather, you start making decisions for the crew and the boat that might not be good for safety or comfort. And if weather “doesn’t play tricks on you,” she says, “you enjoy the extra time.” Passe also finds the Great Lakes Cruising Club (GLCC) to be an essential resource for finding up-to-date information about harbors. For members (you can join online), the organization offers a regularly updated database of more than 1,200 individual cruising guides to the Great Lakes. Members also volunteer as port captains at various marinas, offering camaraderie and helpful suggestions about the area to visiting members. And, of course, most marinas and towns provide detailed information about their services and local attractions online. A short time spent on the internet can glean a fair amount of insight about where you might want to go and why. When planning a cruise, it’s important to take the whole crew into account. Everyone has different interests, levels of endurance and experience. Our kids love beaches and towns with playgrounds. I love to hike. Mark just loves being on the boat, so he’s the most flexible when it comes to locations. While I’m itching to leave after a few days in port, he’s just fine sitting out the weather and doing small onboard projects.


Checking Bonnie Dahl’s “Superior Way” at the helm.

Not checking the windlass before we left port meant having to do some on-the-spot maintenance — with a 3-year-old on his back, no less!

Expect the unexpected

If and when you encounter inclement conditions, it’s good to plan where you’ll wait out the storm. Our kids loved being socked in at Thunder Bay, since it has a children’s museum within walking distance of the marina. Five days on a hook at Isle Royale was not nearly as easy for the crew’s interpersonal relations. Planning to meet people along the way can help break up the monotony of a long trip staring at the same crewmembers. On a three-week cruise of western Lake Superior, we met family and friends at various ports. We couldn’t tell them exactly when we’d be there (we missed my fatherin-law’s 80th birthday party because of gale force winds), but we’d get there eventually. Probably. We’d call, if we had cell reception. Which we usually did. Sometimes. This brings up a good point about cell reception, which is especially important on the Great Lakes, when marina workers are often answering the cell phone in their pockets rather than monitoring Channel 16 in the office. When you finally set sail, take a detailed list of marina phone numbers onboard. You can make reservations in advance at many marinas, but weather and boat conditions change itineraries all the time. It’s best to have the list of phone numbers handy when you need to reach the marina.

Other details

Once you’ve got an itinerary, you’ll know how to provision. Urban harbor hopping means easy access to grocery stores and restaurants. Wilderness cruising means you’ll have to pack a pantry with enough food for the duration. Crossing the border into Canada these days means you can’t bring fresh

Navigating or half asleep?

Watching her dad paint the bottom of the boat.

A working dinghy means everybody gets a chance to drive.

fruits and vegetables. You’ll need to plan food for rotten weather; nobody wants to grill after being out in a storm all day, but a can of soup warmed in the galley is perfect. Passe recommends planning meals you wouldn’t necessarily have at home. She also brings along gourmet chocolate bars to give as gifts to people they meet along the way. Our family once brought along basil plants and gave away fresh herbs to fellow boaters. Books, like the regularly updated “Waterway Guide to the Great Lakes” and Richardsons’ chartbooks, and cruising guides are a must to have along on a trip — not only for the detailed harbor information, but also because, while apps are great (we use Navionics), it’s essential to have good-old paper maps. For those of us on Lake Superior, Bonnie Dahl’s “Superior Way” is a must for navigating every nook and cranny of this boss. Of course, all the planning in the world won’t rule out surprises: That’s the fun of boating! Meticulous planning doesn’t mean you’re stuck with one plan — it means being flexible when weather or an unexpected opportunity presents itself. Passe calls it “planning for alternatives,” and it’s a guaranteed way of making lemonade out of any wavy lemons on the water. ★

Boat Prep Checklist

Getting the boat ready for a big (or small) trip can often take more time than the actual cruise. But prepping all the systems before heading out means less worry and time spent fixing things underway. And if something goes wrong along the way, you’ll have plenty of tools and backup supplies onboard. Some boaters keep a prep checklist in their heads. Some write it out. Every boat is unique with its own special preparations. Here’s a quick refresher list in anticipation of those balmy days ahead. ❏ Engine: Change the impeller; check the batteries, coolant, oil and transmission fluid; make sure the battery charger is charging; run the fuel polisher; check the fuel level and fill the tanks. ❏ Safety gear: Make sure flares are up to date and that the ditch bag has a first aid kit, water, snacks, flares, a whistle, a horn, a flag and a signal mirror. Check the boat’s fire extinguishers, smoke and CO2 detectors. Locate and count the life jackets. Check jacklines and harnesses. ❏ Water systems: Install a new main water filter and drinking water filter. Make sure there are no leaks. Fill the water tanks. ❏ Dinghy: Make sure the dinghy and its motor are in good working order. Fill the extra gasoline tank. ❏ Electronics: Update the Navionics charts (or other service you may have) in the app and activate the inReach subscription (applicable only to Navionics). Activate the emergency transponder through the federal website. Make sure all radar, GPS and all helm electronics are working properly. Check the hydraulic steering system to ensure there are no leaks. ❏ Windlass: Run a test with the anchor to make sure the windlass is in working order. ❏ Galley: Stock the pantry with menu ingredients, spices, condiments, extra drinking water, paper towels, paper plates and garbage bags. Fill the propane tanks. ❏ Bathrooms: Prime all the heads and empty the sewage tank. ❏ Pack: Engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, distilled water for batteries, flashlight batteries, oil/gas absorption cloths to collect spills, a well-stocked first aid kit, paper charts, fishing tackle (get a license!) and all the tools you can cram onboard. ❏ Update: The captain’s log with any maintenance repairs and dates, and current engine hours. ❏ Clean: A gleaming boat feels like a million bucks when you head out of home port for adventure!

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Cruising the PHOTOS and STORY by BRUCE KEMP

A grandpa rule: We swim every couple of hours. We’re not motoring like mad just to get somewhere quickly. This is supposed to be fun and there’s nothing more fun than jumping off the swim platform — even if it meant the possibility of an encounter with the local snapping turtles. It took a bit of time to convince 7-year-old Sophie that the turtles really weren’t going to bite her toes off.

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Le Boats are designed for you to sit out and take advantage of the scenery with a glass of wine in hand (as long as you’re not underway).


RIDEAU CANAL EXPLORING

Ontario’s WATERWAY

t

ON A LE BOAT CHARTER.

he lower lock at Merrickville on the Rideau Canal closed for the night, so we tied up our Le Boat Horizon 2-S in the pool and went for a swim. Our granddaughter, Sophie, had earned the reward of jumping into the cool water after a day of pouring rain and steaming heat. Joking, I warned her to watch out for snapping turtles. Ironically, as we were later relaxing with juice and snacks, I saw the tell-tale sawtooth dragon’s tail of a snapper hunting the pool in the softening evening light. Sophie was not impressed until I explained there was no real danger. But she stopped believing me when the prehistoric reptile poked its head above the water’s surface to survey us. The three of us — my wife, Laurie, my granddaughter and I — were cruising the Rideau Canal for the first time aboard one of the new Le Boat cruisers introduced to the region in 2018. A voyage of firsts, it was also 7-year-old Sophie’s first cruising trip. She was ready to roll when her mom dropped her off and

didn’t once whine about wearing her life jacket while she was on deck. It’s like she has the cruising spirit in her DNA.

DOWN TO A SCIENCE

With the low power (Le Boats are governed down to 10 kph) the lock masters rearranged the entry order at the different locks to put us last so we could take our time exiting the lock chambers without holding other boaters up.

Once we were into the broader stretches of the canal system where the depth had increased and there was little chance running aground, Sophie was given the opportunity to take the wheel for short stretches. There was a cautious pair of hands always nearby. It was a reward that gave her the confidence and rolling gate of an old sea dog.

We picked up our boat in Merrickville, Ontario, and motored downriver toward Ottawa before turning around at Long Reach to take the boat back to the operational base at Smith’s Falls. Before picking up the boat, however, Laurie and I underwent Le Boat’s introduction to cruising on their vessels. Sandy Crothers, the base operations manager, put us through our paces. He was very thorough, making sure we had a firm handle on the controls of the boat and procedures for locking. In previous lives, I would never have slammed the gear shift/ throttle through such radical shifts. “Jeeze,” I say. “Aren’t you afraid that we’ll rip a shear pin in half?” “Nope,” Crothers says. “The boats are designed to be bulletproof.” And they are. Le Boat is trying for a wider audience than confirmed cruisers. LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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Top left: Our Le Boat crew: Sophie, Grandma Laurie and me, Grandpa Bruce. Top right: Smaller boats, like canoes and kayaks, are numerous on the Rideau. People often paddle the entire 202-kilometer length camping at the different lock stations along the way. Parks Canada also offers oTENTiks — A-frame tents with wooden floors and bunks.

Resources ■ Le Boat LEBOAT.COM

■ Kingston Tourism VISITKINGSTON.CA

■ Ontario Tourism ONTARIOTRAVEL.NET

■ Ottawa Tourism/Rideau World Heritage Site OTTAWATOURISM.CA

■ Rideau Canal/Parks Canada PC.GC.CA

They have been operating in Europe for more than 40 years and have got it down to a science. Heavy, neoprene rubber bumpers surround the hulls at the boot tops and waterlines. They also have fenders running transversely around the hull and a quarter-inch steel shoe encases the keel fore and aft in case of an unfriendly encounter with one of the region’s rocks. The engine (a Nanni diesel) is governed down to the maximum canal speed of six knots (roughly 11 kph or 7 mph). All of this limits the potential dangers for inexperienced boaters. It also has assured Transport Canada that charterers can operate Le Boat’s vessels without the required national Pleasure Craft Operator’s card. The Horizon 2-S sleeps up to five, with two ensuite cabins and a spacious salon for relaxing after a day of locking. The aft-facing, no-nonsense cockpit seat provides great views of the Rideau. But up top on the sundeck is where you’ll take advantage of the sunshine. It was the perfect amount of space for the three of us.

CREWMEMBER ROLES

Navigation along the canal is simply a matter of connecting the dots. Using the TrakMap guide to the waterway, all boaters have to

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do is tick off the buoy numbers on the chart. It’s so simple that this was the first job I gave to Sophie. It’s a no-brainer that kids get bored very easily and need something other than grandma’s ministrations to entertain them. I gave Sophie a set of 8x25 binoculars we keep in the kitchen to identify birds at our backyard feeders. Armed with these, she sat beside me on the flybridge and called out the buoy numbers. Doing an excellent job of spotting the buoys, Laurie shifted things up a gear and showed Sophie how to locate where we were on the river using the marker numbers identified on the charts. From then on out, Sophie became our navigator, constantly advising me of our position. With a lot of locking to do and only two adults on the boat, Sophie was soon helping Grandma Laurie with line handling. So proficient, she eventually took over the bow station and did not miss a beat. I was a bit concerned that mosquitoes and deer flies might be a problem while cruising, as a lot of low-lying wetlands border the system. This environment is good for breeding waterfowl and obnoxious bugs alike. Fortunately the boat closes up nicely and has

air-cooling. Though not quite air conditioning, air-cooling keeps the interior livable with the port lights closed, and the screened fore hatch helps with air circulation. I didn’t have much to worry about, however, since 2018 was a light year for bugs.

A BIT OF BACKGROUND

The Rideau Canal was built in response to close calls during the War of 1812. At the end of that war, British strategists realized the lifeline of the St. Lawrence River, stretching from Montreal to Kingston, was vulnerable to attack and that a determined force could seize and control it. Colonel John By was dispatched from Whitehall (the British equivalent of the State Department) to develop a route bypassing the critical region. He came up with a plan to use a series of rivers and lakes, linked by canals and locks, to extend a route south from Ottawa 126 miles to Kingston on Lake Ontario. The eastern side of the route used the Ottawa River, which joins the St. Lawrence just above Montreal. The system was designed to include four stone blockhouses and a number of defendable lock keepers’ houses. Construction began in 1826 to provide a safe


Top left: The swing bridge at Upper Nicholson’s Lock is operated by hand; the lock master uses pure muscle to swing the precisely balanced structure. There are only three “power” bridges (turned by electric motors) at the different lock stations: Old Slys, Merrickville and Smiths Falls. Top right: The blockhouse at Merrickville, designed originally to defend against American invasion, now welcomes visitors from all over the United States and the world.

Above: Sophie was a quick study. Grandma showed her how to handle lines using the cleats for added holding power and she very quickly took over the job of bow line handler.

transportation route following the War of 1812, making it the oldest continually operating canal in North America. In 2007, the Rideau Canal was designated as a World Heritage Site. Building required large numbers of tradesmen who were not readily available in British North America (the pre-confederation name for Canada) at the time. The lock chambers were formed with limestone quarried locally and carved by Scots and English stonemasons. Irish immigrants did the heavy digging, escaping the poverty of the old country even before the great Potato Famine struck. The Rideau Canal is also unique in that it flows both ways, north and south, with the divide located at the summit on Upper

Rideau Lake. From here, water to the south of the lake flows downhill toward Kingston; north from here, the topography slopes downhill toward Ottawa.

ECONOMIC HUB

At Kilmarnock Lock, we had to wait for a boat to catch up before the lock would be cycled. Without the need to concentrate on driving the boat, I was able to inspect the masonry of the chamber walls. Marks from the mason’s chisels are still present even after nearly 200 years of flooding and drying. Just the shear raw physical strength needed to build even the smallest lock boggles the modern imagination. When common sense finally prevailed after the war and tensions between the British Colony and United States eased,

the locals along the canal (who were mainly Loyalists not wanting to take part in the Revolution) were quick to recognize the other benefits of the waterway. Before long, a flourishing river traffic grew up, and places like Merrickville with factories and mills made the Rideau an important economic hub for a brief period until the railroad came along. In its heyday, it shipped products to the far west of Canada (the edge of the great prairies) and rapidly developing urban centers like Oswego, Buffalo and Chicago. The economics left Sophie unimpressed. She was more intrigued with cruising again, but this time to different spots along the canal — as long as I promised to find swimming spots with no snapping turtles. ★

Above left: A large part of the charm of the Rideau Canal are its historic limestone buildings, many of them dating back to the early 19th century. It’s worth a stop in places like Kingston, Merrickville (this photo), Perth, Manotick and Ottawa just to take in the exquisite limestone architecture.

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PORT OF CALL

BY CRAIG RITCHIE 52

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H

ogtown. The Six. Hollywood North. YYZ. Toronto has always been a city known for its nicknames, each of which reflects a different side of Canada’s largest metropolitan area. Hogtown is a nod to Toronto’s agricultural past, when its stockyards shipped maple-smoked bacon to markets all over the world. The Six refers to the last digit in its original 416 area code, distinguishing the

PHOTO COURTESY OF

A MULTI-FACETED PERSONALITY HAS BLESSED TORONTO, ONTARIO, WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF COLORFUL NICKNAMES. BUT ALL IT TAKES IS A SINGLE VISIT TO LEAVE BOATERS CALLING IT THEIR OWN SLICE OF WATERFRONT HEAVEN.


PHOTO COURTESY OF ONTARIO TOURISM

city proper from its 905 suburbs. Hollywood North reflects Toronto’s current role as a major center for television and movie production, while YYZ refers to its airport code, with an appreciative nod to a popular song of the same name by native sons, Rush. But none of these monikers, on their own, can even begin to capture the full essence of one of the world’s most unique cities.

With a population of 2.8 million people in the city proper and more than six million living in its greater metropolitan area, Toronto is the largest city in Canada and the fourth largest in North America, surpassed by only Mexico City, New York and Los Angeles. It’s also among the most ethnically diverse cities in the world, a place where you’ll hear more than 130

different languages spoken and where more than half the population was born in another country. People come to Toronto in pursuit of the Canadian Dream, and it’s this incredible diversity and richness that makes Toronto the Good (yet another nickname, recognizing its cleanliness and low crime rate) one of the most rewarding travel destinations in the world. LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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Skyline from the Islands

Nathan Phillips Square

It’s an easy place to find, especially if you’re arriving the old-fashioned way, by boat. Situated on the north shore of Lake Ontario a little less than 30 miles from its western end, and almost directly north of the Niagara River, Toronto is easy to spot from the water; just look for the 1,808-foot-tall CN Tower, which is visible from at least 50 miles away in clear weather, day or night. Completed in 1976, the CN Tower was the tallest free-standing structure in the world for 32 years, until it was eclipsed in 2008 by the Canton Tower in China. Although no longer the world’s tallest, the CN Tower remains an unmistakable landmark welcoming boaters to Toronto’s waterfront. As you approach more closely, the downtown skyscrapers become clear, particularly the gleaming gold towers of the Royal Bank Plaza, the brick red spire of the Scotiabank Tower, and the massive white dome roof of the Rogers Centre baseball stadium. The harbor itself is protected by two prominent land formations, including a

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large, naturally formed series of islands directly offshore from the downtown core, and the Leslie Street Spit, a man-made finger of land that extends from the eastern shore almost to the Islands. To enter Toronto Harbour you need to bypass these features and navigate through one of two dredged channels known as the Eastern and Western gaps, located at either end of the Islands. If you’re planning to navigate within Toronto Harbour, you’ll need a Power Vessel Operator’s Permit, issued by the Toronto Port Authority (call 416-778-1230 or download an application online at TORONTOPORT.COM). The cost is $20 and it’s valid for 14 consecutive days. THE EASTERN GAP The Eastern Gap is the primary entrance to Toronto Harbour. Watch for two flashing red lights marking the end of the Leslie Street Spit. From there, flashing red and green channel buoys are located just to the west of these beacons, marking the entrance to the

harbor channel. The water here is deep and free of obstructions, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for large lake freighters navigating through this confined space. If you see one, get out of the way and give the big boat plenty of room. THE WESTERN GAP Visiting boaters should also be cautious if they choose to enter the harbor through the shallower Western Gap, which separates the shoreline from the Billy Bishop airport on Toronto Island. White and orange buoys with flashing yellow lights mark restricted areas off the ends of the airport runways both outside and inside the harbor; you’ll need to stay well outside of these markers at all times. You’ll also need to watch for boat traffic motoring through openings in the shoreline breakwater just west of the gap, as they pass to and from some local yacht clubs. Ferry traffic running between the shoreline and the island airport represents yet another potential hazard to watch out for, while the shallow water

CANOE AND TORONTO SIGN PH OTO COU RTESY OF ONTARIO TOURISM; BIKER AND BASEBALL PH OTOS COURTESY OF TOURISM TORONTO

Rogers Centre


Toronto Island Marina

Toronto Island Ferry

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MARINA PHOTO COURTESY OF TORONTO ISLAND MARINA W EB SITE; FERRIS WHEEL PHOTO COURTESY OF CENTREISLLANDMARINA.CA; FERRY PHOTO COURTESY WIKI

THE TORONTO ISLANDS Protecting the Inner Harbour from Lake Ontario storms, the Toronto Islands are a favorite destination for Torontonians seeking an escape from the city. The only islands in western Lake Ontario, the Toronto Islands are home to several yacht clubs, the Centreville Amusement Park and a nude beach at Hanlan’s Point on the western end of the archipelago. For visiting boaters, the islands rank among the best places to stay when you visit, with their peaceful surroundings and stunning views of the

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and bottom topography in the immediate area can result in a rough ride when navigating this passage in a strong south or west wind. Regardless of how you arrive, the Inner Harbour is usually a very busy place dotted with all manner of small craft and Toronto’s iconic white-and-black ferries, as they shuttle back and forth between the shoreline and the islands. The speed limit in the harbor is 10 knots, reduced to five knots within 500 feet of shore.

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city skyline. The Island Yacht Club, Toronto Island Marina, Harbour City Yacht Club, Royal Canadian Yacht Club and Queen City Yacht Club all accommodate transient boaters. Day trips to the city are easy enough; grab a ride on a water taxi or yacht club shuttle, or do the trip in style on one of the Toronto Island ferries. Running continuously since 1833, the ferry service operates six vessels on four routes, serving Ward’s Island, Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point and the Billy Bishop Airport. The first three routes dock on shore at the Jack Layton Terminal at the foot of Bay Street, within easy walking distance to the subway and most downtown attractions. Best known for their quiet lagoons along the north side and the sandy beaches along their southern perimeter, the islands are home to the Centreville amusement park, built in 1967 with a turn-of-the-century theme. There are paved roads on the islands, but no vehicular traffic apart from emergency and service vehicles. The standard way to get around is to walk or bike. At the eastern end of the island chain, Ward’s Island

and Algonquin Island are home to roughly 300 year-round residences — the homes of extremely lucky Torontonians with arguably the most scenic commute of all. There are also two daycare centers, a school and a church. Here’s a fun tidbit of Toronto Island trivia: Back in 1914, baseball legend Babe Ruth hit his first home run as a professional player on the Toronto Islands while playing in a game at the former Hanlan’s Point Stadium. The ball, they say, has never been found. HARBOURFRONT Much of the Toronto shoreline facing the islands is built on reclaimed industrial land that has been developed into delightful parkland, restaurants, shopping complexes and luxury condominiums. Called Harbourfront, this area is well known for its lively music scene, with frequent outdoor concerts held throughout the summer, as well as live theater performances and visual arts displays. Most of the action takes place west of Yonge

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Harbourfront Centre Waterfront Trail

While the hustle and bustle of the downtown core is addictive, Toronto also has its quiet side. For those who prefer a slower pace at the end of the day, excellent marina facilities just outside of downtown offer a quiet alternative to staying among the skyscrapers, while excellent rapid transit connections still allow easy access to all the fun. Visiting boaters in search of a more peaceful place to tie up often gravitate toward Humber Bay, which sits about one mile west of Toronto’s Western Gap. Look for two large brown condominium buildings that stand alone on the shoreline marking the mouth of the Humber River. Both structures have red aircraft obstruction lights on their roofs, so they’re easy to spot even after dark. About a mile up the shallow Humber River is The Humber Yacht Club. Just west of the condos is Humber Bay Park and its large yacht basin, home to the Etobicoke Yacht Club and the Mimico Cruising Club.

CONCERT PHOTO COURTESY OF HA RBOURFRON T WE BS I TE ; RE D ROCKET AND TRAIL PHOTOS COURTE SY OF TOURI S M TORON TO

QUIET RETREATS

Red Rocket

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Additional mooring options can be found along the shoreline just outside of the Western Gap, including the National Yacht Club and the Alexandra Yacht Club, which accommodate vessels to about 40 feet. Although a little farther from the main attractions, these locations tend to be a lot quieter, especially on summer weekends. Outer Harbour Marina, located on a finger of land extending from the eastern shoreline, is a large, full-service facility capable of handling yachts to 100 feet. Although it’s only a short 10-minute Uber ride to downtown, this location offers a quieter option for those who don’t want to stay right in the thick of the action. HELLO, NEIGHBORS While the waterfront and islands offer myriad charms, you can’t really say you’ve visited Toronto without exploring some of its fabled neighborhoods. Thankfully, this is incredibly easy to do as Toronto is blessed with an outstanding public transit system operated by the Toronto Transit Commission, or TTC. Many locals simply call it the Red Rocket in reference to the bright red paint gracing the city’s transit vehicles. The TTC is a clean, safe and efficient network of subways, buses and streetcars that crisscross the entire

Ashbridges Bay Park

East of downtown, Ashbridges Bay Park, a little over two miles from the Eastern Gap, offers full facilities for visiting boaters in a beautiful location that borders Toronto’s trendy Beaches district. Just follow the Leslie Street Spit shore and you’ll find Ashbridges Bay tucked in among a stand of stately willow trees. Once you’re tied up, follow a neatly manicured wooden boardwalk that extends east along the shoreline and you’ll soon find yourself in the thick of one of Toronto’s most vibrant and picturesque neighborhoods. Known for its welcoming restaurant patios and eclectic shopping, the Beaches is a real treat at any time of year.

ASHBRIDG ES PH OTO COU RTESY OF TORONTO.CA

street around the 2,000-seat Westjet concert stage — a distinctive, high-peaked, open-sided steel-and-glass venue that overlooks the water. Nearby, the Power Plant — a former power generating station turned art gallery — presents regular shows of classic and contemporary works by both established and emerging artists. A broad and inviting boardwalk that runs along the water’s edge here invites visiting boaters to stretch their legs and take in the sights for a considerable distance in either direction. The boardwalk connects to the much longer Waterfront Trail, allowing walkers and runners to potentially circumnavigate Lake Ontario either on foot or by bicycle. Harbourfront is home to many of Toronto’s most popular bars and restaurants, and the view is a big reason why. It’s always buzzing with activity, particularly during the summer when it seems like there’s a different festival or special event every week. Mooring options for visiting boaters run right across the waterfront. Along the shoreline, Marina Quay West, just inside the Western Gap, welcomes transient boats up to about 60 feet in length. Larger vessels up to 200 feet can usually find a spot at nearby Harbourfront Center. Marina Four, still farther east, accommodates vessels up to about 40 feet.


STILL MORE THINGS TO DO

EdgeWalk at CN Tower

■ Hockey Hall of Fame: Located in an old bank at Yonge and Front streets, just a 10-minute walk from the Island ferry terminal, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must for fans of the game. Put on pads and try to stop sponge pucks fired by video images of Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier; be photographed with the Stanley Cup (yes, the real one!) and more. ■ Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Located at Bloor Street and Avenue Road, and served by its own subway station, the ROM is one of the largest museums in North America, with more Royal Ontario Museum than six million artifacts and 40 galleries. Opened in March 1914, it houses an exceptional collection that spans art, world culture and natural history, with regular special exhibits from around the world. Check the website (ROM.ON.CA) for current exhibitions.

ED GEWALK AND ST. JAMES PARK PH OTOS COU RTESY OF ONTAIRIO TOURISM; MUSEUM PH OTO BY FLICKR ROM_@MARCO; CAB BAGETOWN PHOTO COURTESY WIKI

■ Rogers Centre: Torontonians still know the world’s first domed stadium with a retractable roof by its original name: SkyDome. Home to the Toronto Blue Jays, it’s a wonderful venue to enjoy the big game and is within easy walking distance of the waterfront. ■ CN Tower: A 58-second elevator ride takes you to the top of what was, until recently, the world’s tallest free-standing structure. Here you can enjoy incredible 360-degree views of the city and lake — or 1,122 feet straight down, if you look through the glass floor. For the truly adventurous, EdgeWalk lets you take a stroll outside and hang off the edge for a heart-stopping experience. ■ Canadian National Exhibition: Visit during the last two weeks of August through Labor Day weekend and you’ll be right in time for the annual Canadian National Exhibition, better known as the CNE, or simply The Ex. Enjoy a large midway, livestock and agricultural exhibits, a horse show and the Canadian International Air Show, which is held over Labor Day weekend. ■ Toronto Zoo: Encompassing more than 710 acres, Canada’s largest zoo is home to more than 5,000 animals representing more than 500 different species spread among seven zoogeographic regions.

St. James Park, Old Town

Cabbagetown

metropolitan area with frequent service, making it fast and easy to explore even the most distant parts of the city. Some Toronto neighborhoods are known for their history and architecture. Cabbagetown, with its impressive collection of Victorian structures and architecturally significant homes, remains as impressive today as it was when it was built back in the Georgian period. The industrial, red brick Distillery District was once the largest whisky-producing region in the world. Carefully refurbished, it’s now home to a charming combination of art galleries, shops, restaurants and performance venues. Old Town Toronto, just steps from the waterfront, boasts a number of historically significant buildings from Toronto’s past, including the lively St. Lawrence Market, where shoppers haggle with vendors over the price of cheese, meats, fish, poultry and produce to this day. The nearby Gooderham Flatiron Building is a Toronto icon that exhibits a combination of the modern Gothic Revival and Romanesque Revival styles. Just down the street lies another iconic jewel in Toronto’s skyline, the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, which was the largest structure in the entire British Empire when it opened in 1929.

Other Toronto neighborhoods are known for their vibrant culture. Greektown, Chinatown, Little Italy, Little Portugal, College Street and Queen West each offer their own distinct charms, reflecting Toronto’s multinational makeup. A SHOPPING MECCA If you like to shop, you’re going to love it here. From today’s trendiest fashions to haute couture, Toronto literally offers something for everyone. The Eaton Centre, on Yonge Street between Queen and Dundas streets, is a multi-level indoor mall with an international reputation for its spectacular shops. Named after the now-defunct Eaton’s department store that once anchored it, the Toronto Eaton Centre attracts more visitors each year — in excess of 50 million — than any other attraction in the city. In fact, it ranks as the busiest shopping mall in the world thanks to its excellent transit access, its downtown location and high tourist traffic. If your tastes run more to Dior, Versace and Louis Vuitton, then hop on the Rocket for a short trip up to Yorkville. Located north of Bloor Street and west of Yonge, this fashionable district is where you’ll find

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Canadian National Exhibition

TORONTO YACHT CLUBS + MARINAS

■ Alexandra Yacht Club 416-260-8690 AYC.CA

■ Aquatic Park Sailing Club 416-631-3940 AQUATICPARK.COM

■ Ashbridge’s Bay Yacht Club 416-698-4498

FESTIVALS GALORE Perhaps the greatest thing about visiting Toronto is that there’s always something going on. When it comes to summer festivals, T.O. (still another nickname, short for Toronto, Ontario) has few rivals. Visit in late June and you’ll be just in time for the Wine and Spirit Festival, where wine samples, craft beers and food pairings are the order of the day. Held on Sugar Beach, it thoughtfully overlaps with the Craft Beer Festival at the exhibition grounds, where local artisan brewers show off their best. Originally a small affair created to promote gay rights, the Toronto Pride Parade has become a city-wide celebration of inclusiveness and respect. The parade — which caps off the annual Pride Week celebration each June — attracts crowds in excess of 100,000 people every year. Toronto’s annual Ribfest brings out crowds of carnivores to Centennial Park over the

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LAKELANDBOATING.COM

ABYC.ON.CA

■ Highland Yacht Club 416-267-0224 HIGHLANDYACHTCLUB.COM

■ Island Yacht Club 416-203-2582 IYC.CA

Toronto Pride Parade

■ Lakeshore Yacht Club 416-255-3701 LSYC.COM

Canada Day weekend at the beginning of July, while the Beaches Jazz Festival, held during the month of July, attracts big-name jazz artists and jazz aficionados from all over the world. Caribana, held in early August, celebrates all things Caribbean, while Taste of the Danforth, which follows a week later, honors Toronto’s Greek community. Although the Canadian National Exhibition, held on the waterfront at the end of August, is seen by many as the official end of summer, the celebrations continue into the fall with the Toronto International Film Festival in early September, the Toronto Ukrainian Festival in mid-month and the Toronto Garlic Festival, celebrating — you guessed it — everything to do with garlic. THE GREAT INDOORS For all of its energy and outdoor activities, Toronto is also a place to enjoy the great indoors and embrace the finer things in life. One of the world’s great cities for live performance art, Toronto is home to a vibrant theater scene that ranks third in the world behind New York and London in its scope and the quality of performances. Beautiful historic venues, like the Royal Alexandra Theatre and

■ Marina Quay West 416-203-1212 HARBOURFRONTCENTRE .COM

■ National Yacht Club 416-260-8686 THENYC.COM

■ Outer Harbour Marina 416-778-6245 PORTSTORONTO.COM/MARINA . ASPX

■ Royal Canadian Yacht Club 416-967-7245 RCYC.CA

■ Toronto Humber Yacht Club 416-231-4650 THYC.CA

■ Toronto Island Marina 416-203-1055 TORONTOISLANDMARINA .COM

the Princess of Wales Theatre, along with contemporary stages, like the Ford Centre for the Performing Arts, the Young Centre and a host of smaller venues, present a wide range of plays, musicals and improv productions featuring big-name stars. Getting tickets to the major shows can be tough, so shop online before you visit to ensure you score the best

ALL PHOTOS TH IS PAGE COU RTESY WIKI

global luxury brands and designer duds from all of the top designer labels. For those with more eclectic tastes, Queen Street West between University and Bathurst streets offers an interesting array of second-hand clothing shops, home decor stores, cafés, bars and restaurants. It’s also a great spot for live music in the evenings and among the top people-watching spots in the city. For book worms, the Nautical Mind bookstore has been a staple in the Toronto harbor since 1980 and is a quick stroll from Marina Quay West and Marina Four. The independent bookstore carries a comprehensive selection of marine books, charts and cruising guides for all types of boaters.


TALL SHIPS PHOTOS COURTESY OF TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE FACEBOOK

TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE ONTARIO

Bluenose II

For fans of tall ships, the 2019 Tall Ships Challenge Ontario will kick off during Canada Day weekend, June 29 to July 1, in Toronto, Ontario, during the Redpath Waterfront Festival. Tall Ships Challenge Ontario is the Canadian portion of Tall Ships Challenge Great Lakes — a race series organized by Tall Ships America that travels through the Great Lakes, stopping in U.S. and Canadian cities throughout the summer of 2019. These majestic ships will race from port to port, beginning in Toronto, then Sarnia, Midland, Kingsville and ending in Brockville. During the Redpath Waterfront Festival, which takes place at the Billy Bishop Airport, Toronto’s waterfront will be transformed into Picton Castle a nautical wonderland with a fleet of tall ships docked from Harbour Square Park to HTO Park West. Participating ships include the Bluenose II, a historical Canadian icon that’s adorned the Canadian dime since 1937. Other ships include the Picton Castle, a 179-foot, three-masted vessel, the U.S. Brig Niagara, Pride of Baltimore II, Denis Sullivan, Fair Jeanne, Playfair and St. Lawrence II. All of the tall ships anchored at the Redpath Waterfront Festival will be open to the public for deck tours. Other festival highlights include vendors, food and live entertainment in each park. For information on the entire Tall Ships Challenge Ontario tour, please visit TALLSHIPSON.COM. To learn more about the tall ships sailing in for the 2019 Redpath Waterfront Festival, visit TOWATERFRONTFEST.COM.

seats. Or, give one of the smaller theaters a try and enjoy a show that’s often just as enjoyable and far more intimate. If your tastes run more toward live music, you’ll enjoy Toronto’s packed concert agenda, with a wide variety of venues offering everything from opera to heavy metal every night of the week. Pick up a copy of the free NOW newspaper — widely available downtown — or prowl its website (NOWTORONTO.COM) for the latest on who’s playing where. Regardless of your entertainment choices, you’ll want to head out well fortified, and that’s where Toronto really shines with an unrivaled restaurant scene. While some of the world’s great cities are known for specific types of cuisine, Toronto stands out with both its quality and enormous variety. From casual to fine dining, you’ll find a tremendous range of restaurants offering virtually any style of fare imaginable and at every conceivable price point. Many of the very best lie within easy walking distance of the downtown marinas or are just a short Uber ride away. Or have a lazy night in and simply order a pizza or Chinese. A number of downtown Toronto restaurants even offer delivery by boat right to your swim platform. Looking for a fun destination that’s clean, safe and with plenty of things to do? Then point your bow to Toronto and see for yourself why so many people call Canada’s largest city their second summer home. ★

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LAKESHORE LIFE BY KAT E B U SH

Boyne City, MI

MORE INFORMATION

Lake Charlevoix condo in exclusive Sommerset Pointe community.

Address 04541 #17 Sommerset Ln. Boyne City, MI 49712 Specs Bedrooms: 3 Baths: 2 Square Footage: 2,189 Shoreline: 800 feet (shared) Price: $529,900 (recently reduced!) Contact Pat O’Brien Pat O’Brien & Associates Real Estate 231-582-1700 PATOBRIEN.COM

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S

avor all the benefits of a waterfront community at Sommerset Pointe in Boyne City, Michigan. Offering the perfect retirement retreat, this three-bedroom, twobathroom, ground-floor condo sits on the edge of Lake Charlevoix, boasting views of the 65-slip private marina from the screened-in porch. The one-floor layout eliminates the need to walk up and down steps, and the open floorplan allows you to invite all your friends and family over for a dinner party or game night. Cozy up next to the gas fireplace during cooler months, or activate the innovative NanaWall window-wall system to really open up the space to the great outdoors on warm summer days. A chef ’s dream kitchen offers high-end finishes, including granite countertops, a wine cooler, range hood, two-tone cabinets and a brand-new fridge. Prepare meals on the nearly 360-degree counterspace and rinse veggies in one of the three — count ‘em — three sinks. The kitchen offers so much storage space that you may have to start buying more appliances to fill all the cabinets.

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Continue down the hallway with rich, cherry hardwood floors to arrive at the two guest rooms and shared bathroom. Brand-new, soft carpeting warms the bedroom floors. The master suite is a true oasis, with a large walk-in closet offering built-in wood shelving, and a spacious master bathroom with a large soaking tub, a double vanity and walk-in shower. But the highlight of the master suite is its direct access to the 400-square-foot porch. Enjoy bug-free summer nights relaxing on the screened-in patio, or raise the automatic screens to walk straight out onto to the marina dock. There’s no end to Sommerset Pointe community amenities. Dine at the restaurant, work up a sweat at the Pointe Health Club, dock your boat at the yacht club or catch some rays at the shared beach that stretches more than 800 feet. The community has views straight across the lake to Young State Park and is a short drive to downtown Boyne City for a much-needed Kilwins ice cream trip. Best yet, a recently reduced price means that you can have all these amenities at a lower cost. ★


SEE US AT THE CHICAGO BOAT SHOW, OVER 30 BOATS ON DISPLAY!

Huge selection of new, used and brokerage boats • VISIT BASASMARINE.COM

2019 Regal 42 Fly New arrival

2018 Regal 35 Sport Coupe Demo prices, closeout

2018 301 Cobia Center Console Demo prices, closeout

2019 Pathfinder 2400 TRS In stock

2019 Crestliners On display in showroom

2019 Benningtons On display in showroom

PRE-OWNED AND BROKERAGE BOATS 46’ 46’ 46’ 45’ 44’ 42’ 41’ 40’ 40’ 40’ 40’ 38’ 38’ 38’ 35’

2017 2015 2014 2001 2008 1998 1998 1999 2002 1999 2006 2007 2007 2008 2017

Regal 46 Sport Coupe, IPS Regal 46 Sport Coupe, IPS Regal 46 Sport Coupe, IPS Silverton 410 Sport Bridge Regal 4460 Commodore IPS Fountain Lightning Silverton 352 Motor Yacht Regal 402 Commodore Regal 3860 Commodore Regal 402 Commodore Regal 3860 Commodore Regal 3760 Commodore Regal 3760 Commodore Regal 3760 Commodore Regal 35 Sport Coupe, joystick

$575,000 $529000 $469,900 $174,900 $269,900 $79,900 $79,995 $69,500 $109,900 $69,500 $129,900 $144,900 $134,995 $139,900 $269,900

MAIN LOCATION Basa’s Marine, 512 East Frontage Road, Bolingbrook, IL

34’ 31’ 29’ 28’ 27’ 26’ 25’ 24’ 24’ 23’ 19’ 18’ 14’ 14’

2009 2007 2008 1999 2005 2000 2005 2014 2012 1989 2015 1979 2005 2004

Rinker 320 Express Rinker 280 Express Cruiser Chaparral 290 Signature Sea Ray 280 Sunsport Regal 2765 Commodore Powerquest 260 Legend Sx Rinker 250 Express Cruiser Regal 24 Fasdeck Regal 24 Fasdeck Supra Soltare Stingray 198 Lx Correct Craft Ski Nautique Sylvan S160 Crestliner 1436 Jon

$89,900 $45,995 $84,995 $22,995 $39,995 $26,995 $28,900 $54,995 $45,995 $14,000 $23,995 $24,900 $7,995 $2,495

MICHIGAN LOCATION Basa’s at Oselka Marina, 514 Water Street, New Buffalo, MI

630-739-2272 • BASASMARINE.COM


BOAT BIZ BY A MA N DA M C D O N A LD

MORE INFORMATION PlasTEAK / PlasDECk 3489 Sawmill Rd. Copley, OH 44321 PLASTEAK.COM PLASDECK.COM

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PlasTEAK / PlasDECK Recycled, maintenance-free, synthetic teak.

W

hen Bill Gribble saw a plastic bench seat that reminded him of a boat swim platform, the idea for PlasTEAK — a synthetic teak company based in Copley, Ohio — was born. Since selling the first platform at the 1995 Cleveland Boat Show, PlasTEAK has grown from Gribble’s (PlasTEAK’s president) basement and then garage to the family’s shop on Sawmill Road. PlasTEAK offers everything from swim platforms (pictured left) to outdoor furniture, parking blocks, landscape timbers, planters and other synthetic teak products, all made from high-density polyethylene recycled plastic material. In addition to PlasTEAK, in 2005 the PlasDECK company was launched, selling synthetic teak boat decking (as seen in main image) made from a high-grade proprietary, patented flexible PVC formula. With more than 25 colors to choose from, the decking is available globally, with dealers in the U.S., as well as Mexico, Italy and Australia. The environmentally-friendly material used in PlasTEAK products consists mainly of plastic milk jugs. One plastic parking block, for example, is made from about 300 milk jugs, while an 8-foot picnic table is made from around 3,200,

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

according to the company’s website. This use of recycled plastic prevents waste from entering landfills, ensures the product’s resistance to salt, acids, bacteria, marine parasites and rodents, while also being fully recyclable. The company’s products range from recycled plastic boat ladders, bow pulpits, flooring, companionway boards, handrails and, new this year, Deck Crown (pictured middle and right). Made from the same plastic as the PlasDECK boat decking, this new peel-and-stick strip product overlays deck planks and is guaranteed to protect the deck from harsh sunlight, mold and rotting. For 23 years the family-run business has acknowledged the importance of recycling and using maintenance-free, synthetic teak for marine use. While the company’s teak products look exactly like the authentic material, they’re 100 percent plastic and come with a lifetime warranty. Eve Gribble, PlasTEAK CFO, says: “Being a lifelong boater, Bill knew that if he offered a quality product that would last without maintenance, he would have a winner. We know that a thing has to work well or it is not worth getting.” ★


H Family-owned and

H Large selection of new,

servicing the boaters of the Great Lakes for over 55 years

used & brokerage boats

H Parts & Service,

dockage and storage

H GREAT LAKES LARGEST

H LAKE MICHIGAN’S JEANNEAU YACHTS DEALER

PRESTIGE YACHTS DEALER

H EXCLUSIVE GREAT LAKES

FAIRLINE YACHTS DEALER

2019 Prestige 460S Coupe

2019 Jeanneau NC 33

2019 Fairline 48 Targa GT

See at the Chicago Boat Show

See at the Chicago Boat Show

See at the Chicago Boat Show

USED & BROKERAGE BOATS

2018 Prestige 560S Coupe Boathouse kept $1,099,000

2001 Grand Banks 46 Classic Trades Welcome $429,000

2015 Cruisers Yachts 390 Express Trades Welcome $349,000

2013 Pursuit 365i Sport Coupe Trades Welcome $289,000

Find these boats and much more at www.springbrookmarina.com H

FIVE GREAT LAKES LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

Chicago, IL: 1559 S. Lakeshore Drive, 866-418-6696 Seneca, IL: 623 W. River Road, 866-418-6696 Traverse City, MI: 12935 W. Bayshore Dr. Suite 105, 866-418-6696 Eastlake, OH: 200 Forest Drive, 866-418-6696 Fish Creek, WI: 3957 Main St., Unit 1, 920-868-5044

www.springbrookmarina.com

H

SEE US AT THE

CHICAGO BOAT SHOW

sales@springbrookmarina.com

JAN. 9-13 H


MONTE CARLO YACHTS 65 On display at our Chicago Yachting Center

VISIT WWW.BAYMARI N E.N ET

TO SEE OU R COM PLETE SELECTION OF PRE- OWN ED BOATS


EDGEWATER ON DISPLAY AT THE CHICAGO BOAT SHOW JANUARY 9-13 BOOTH #P1490

262 CX

280 CC

158 CS 248 CX

FEATURED LISTINGS

2019 Monte Carlo Yachts MCY 65 IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

1988 Hatteras 60 IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

2013 Riviera 5800 Sport Yacht Contact Chris DePrey: 920-366-4320

2018 Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

2003 Cruisers Yachts 4050 MY Contact Jon Kruse 920-883-9058

2017 Back Cove 37 Downeast Contact Mark Felhofer: 920-495-5567

2011 Nordic Tug 34 Contact Chris DePrey: 920-366-4320

2011 Cobalt 276 IL: 847-336-2628; WI: 920-743-6526

DOOR COUNTY YACHTING CENTER, WI 920-743-6526

SALES@BAYMARINE.NET

CHICAGO YACHTING CENTER, IL 847-336-2628


Experience the Marlow difference…

2015 Marlow Explorer 58E-CB

2010 Marlow Explorer 57E

2001 53 Selene

2003 Marlow Explorer 57C

2005 Marlow Explorer 53C

2007 Marlow Explorer 72E-CB

2006 Marlow Explorer 70E

2014 Marlow Explorer 58E

2015 Marlow Pilot 32

2003 Symbol Motoryacht 56’

2004 Grand Banks Europa 42

2016 Marlow Explorer 80E-CB

“Gracie” is a traditional pilothouse motoryacht. Her spacious salon includes a generous wet bar, and below are four staterooms and crew quarters. Powered by twin CAT C-32’s, 1800hp engines, she is ready to cruise.

“Bet-A-Buc”is an exceptional yacht featuring a full beam, center line master stateroom with his and her heads, a queen VIP, and enclosed helm with a day head and a crew cabin. Powered by CAT C-18’s, she cruises at 20-23 knots. Call today.

“Marea” is a rare gem that has just come onto the market, boasting 3 staterooms, 3 heads, and crew quarters. This yacht is powered by twin CAT C-18 1015hp engines and is ready to take you on your next fantastic journey! Call today.

Sister Ship Photo

A classic trawler. Her two stateroom layout, flybridge, and warm salon/ galley area provide all the comforts of home. She is well equipped powered by twin 225hp John Deere engines and ready to cruise.

“Cinnamon Girl” is a Command Bridge yacht offering four staterooms plus full crew quarters. Powered by 1400hp CAT 3412’s for both long range capabilities as well as speed for cruising versatility. Please call for details.

“Reely Ours” is an enclosed pilothouse and powered by an economical single 260hp Yanmar® diesel. Ready to cruise. Visit today.

“Bayflower” is perfect for the couple that wants to run their own boat. This three stateroom yacht offers exquisite craftmanship and design. Powered by twin 800hp CAT 3406’s and ready to whisk you away.

“Casamar” is a stunning example of the popular 70E. She has three staterooms with en-suite heads plus crew quarters. Powered by CAT 1015hp C-18’s, you can cruise comfortably at 20 knots or voyage long range at 9 knots.

“Time” is a beautiful three stateroom Raised Pilothouse Motoryacht that has received numerous upgrades throughout. She is powered by the popular 700hp CAT C-12’s and ready to cruise. Please call for more details.

“Tom Foolery” is an ideal luxury cruiser with a full complement of state-of-the-art equipment. She offers three staterooms and is powered by twin 700hp CAT C-12’s. Please contact us for more details.

“Optetime” is a highly desirable “like new” yacht that has been professionally maintained. Ready for immediate cruising-anywhere… with only 550 hours, CAT warranty. Owner is selling; they’ve ordered a new larger Marlow.

“Grand Times” is a very clean, boat shed kept. With Twin Caterpillar® 3126B, 420hp engines, and rare, preferred Two stateroom, Two head layout.


personall y. 2014 Marlow Explorer 66E-CB

“Saga Boy II” is a prime example of class and style. The safety, performance, and sea-going ability that has propelled Marlow Yachts into a class of its own truly shines through on this extraordinary vessel. Powered by twin Caterpillar® 1150hp C18’s, this command bridge, four stateroom yacht is ready to cruise and available for delivery today.

2015 Marlow Explorer 80E-CB

“Lady Eme” is very unique and truly a one-of-a-kind 80E-CB Marlow Explorer with her command bridge and skybridge upgrades. She was made for long range exploring in style, with minimal crew and protected running gear. She has been professionally maintained by a very knowledgeable Captain and with the wireless yacht controller, she is easily handled by only two people.

2004 Marlow Explorer 70E

“Sand Piper” has three spacious staterooms and features a private entrance from the salon to the master stateroom. An elegant cruising yacht, she is powered by twin Caterpillar® 800hp 3406E’s. Fulfill your cruising dreams today aboard this beautiful yacht.

Open seven days a week to better serve our clients. ®

North American and International Inquiries

www.marlowmarine.com • sales @ marlowmarine.com

2005 Mainship 400 “Getting There”

Marlow Marine Sales, Inc. USA/Canada: 800.362.2657 • International: +1.941.729.3370

2006 Marlow Explorer 70E-CB “White Lightning”






!

START THE NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT

VISIT US AT THESE UPCOMING 2019 BOAT SHOWS

Chicago Boat, RV & Strictly Sail Show McCormick Place January 9-13, 2019 www.chicagoboatshow.com

Ultimate Fishing Show Detroit Suburban Collection Showplace January 10-13, 2019 www.showspan.com/UFD

Milwaukee Boat Show Wisconsin Expo Center January 18-20 & 23-27, 2019 www.showspan.com/MBS

FIND OUR COMPLETE LIST OF INVENTORY INCLUDING NEW, USED AND BROKERAGE BOATS AT WWW.REEDYACHTSALES.COM

GRAND HAVEN, MI • Brent Reed 616-402-0180 • Bob Lunt 616-843-1225 LASALLE, MI • Paul Reed 419-304-4405 • Chuck Hutchins 734-497-3721 • Matthew Bolt 734-735-1948 RACINE, WI • Mark Derenne 414-651-3100

www.reedyachtsales.com


STINGRAY BOATS ARE AVAILABLE AT THESE GREAT LAKES AREA DEALERS USA DEALERS American Marina & Motorsports 830 E Green Bay Street Shawano WI 715-526-4300 americanmarina.com Centerpointe Yacht Services 77 S 1st Ave Sturgeon Bay WI 920-746-1912 centerpointeservice.com

Bill’s Boatworks 187 Wilmuth Avenue Lackawanna NY 716-824-7181 billsboatworks.com Frank's Marine 17530 W Akron Canfield Rd Berlin Center OH 330-547-3688 franksmarine.com

Boat Guys 104 W Lake Road Maryville NY 716-753-3913 chautauquamarina.com Glen Harbor Marina 517 E 4th Street Watkins Glen NY 607-535-2751 glenharbormarina.com

CenterPointe Yacht Services 21 56th Street Kenosha WI 414-273-0711 centerpointeservice.com

Grand Valley Marine 3711 28th Street SW Grandville MI 616-538-2460 grandvalleymarine.com

CenterPointe Yacht Services 400 Sussex Street Pewaukee WI 262-333-0700 centerpointeservice.com

R C Congel Boats 8575 Brewerton Road Cicero NY 315-699-2144 rccongel.com

Wonderland Marine West 5796 E Grand River Ave Howell MI 517-548-5122 wonderlandmarinewest.com

Pirate Cove Marina 4304 Rideau River Rd Kemptville, Ontario 613-258-2325 piratecovemarina.com

Rosseau Road Powersports 25 Blackstone & Crane Lk Rd Seguin, Ontario 705-378-5217 rosseauroad.ca

CANADA DEALERS Anstruther Marina 23 Fire Route 63 Apsley, Ontario 705-656-4783 anstrutherlakemarina.com

Leisure Marine 5781 Highway 7 Woodbridge, Ontario 905-851-3903 leisuremarine.com

Mobile Marine Services 261 Hunter Road Grimsby, Ontario 905-730-4722 mobilemarineservices.net

North Country Marine 4201 Perth Road Kingston Inverary, Ontario 613-353-1577 northcountrymarine.com

TO LOCATE A STINGRAY DEALER IN ANOTHER AREA, VISIT STINGRAYBOATS.COM/DEALERS


See You At The Chicago Boat Show!

F I V E L O C AT I O N S

C ARV E R YAC HTS NEW MODEL BLUE: C100 M70

2018 C37 COUPE

2019 C52 COUPE

2019 CARVER C34 COUPE

BE NE TE AU P O W ER BO ATS

P URS UI T BO ATS

NEW MODEL

2019 GRAN TURISMO 40

2019 GRAN TURISMO 50

RE G A L BO AT S

2019 PURSUIT DC325

2019 PURSUIT S328

C HR I S - C R AF T BOATS

REDUCED PRICE

NEW MODEL

2018 REGAL 35 SPORT COUPE 2019 REGAL 42 GRAND COUPE

2018 30 CATALINA

2018 30 CALYPSO

P R E - O W N E D BO ATS FRESH TRADE

2018 CARVER C34 COUPE $369,000

2006 CARVER 444 CMY $209,000

2018 CARVER C52 COUPE $1,199,000

2015 BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 49 $599,000

STURGEON BAY: South First Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI, (920) 746-1912 • Martin Kelsey: (920) 559-0366, Martin@centerpointesales.com • Terry Godres: (920) 559- 0730, Terry@centerpointesales.com • Tony Peot: (920) 493-4747, Tony@centerpointesales.com • MILWAUKEE: 700 S. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI, (888) 992-2487 • John Niemann: (262) 309-9579, John@centerpointesales.com • Tyler Wilkins: (414) 248-9668, Tyler@centerpointesales.com • KENOSHA: 21-56th Street, Kenosha, WI, (888) 992-2487 • Mike Montilino: (612) 419-3772, Mike@centerpointesales.com • WEST MICHIGAN: 430 W. 23rd St, Holland, MI • Brandon Ricci: (616) 405-1715, Brandon@centerpointesales.com

WWW.CENTERPOINTESERVICE.COM OR CALL (888) 9-YACHTS


CO

CH

E TH OW AT SH 9 01 US T AT , 2 SI O 13 VI B 9E Y M GO AR A U IC JAN

Marine Services Corp.

TWO GREAT COMPANIES, ONE DEDICATED FAMILY.

AZIMUT & GALEON SALES AND SERVICE SERVICES • Seakeeper Sales, Installation & Warranty for Lake Michigan • Sale & Installation of Bow & Stern Thruster • Sale & Installation of Underwater Lights & Electronics • Gas & Diesel Engine Repairs by Certified Technicians • Buff & Wax • Fiberglass Repairs • Boat Transportation by Licensed Captains • Custom Work • Complete Boat Painting • Fully Stocked Parts Department • Ability to lift 150,000 lbs.

64’ 2014 Pershing 64

Ph: 708.841.5660 • www.marineservicescorp.com

MTU, SeaKeeper, $1,795,000

MTU Diesels, hardtop, $585,000

59’ 2004 Marquis 59

50’ 2016 Azimut Atlantis

50’ 1992 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer

45’ 1997 Carver 455 Aft Cabin

43’ 2016 Galeon 430 Skydeck

42’ 2017 Galeon 420 Fly

42’ 2015 Regal 42 Sport Coupe

42’ 2008 Cruisers 415 Express

38’ 2003 Cruisers 3870

34’ 2014 Azimut Atlantis

Cummins Diesels, 600 hours, $139,900

Volvo Penta 8.1, $199,900

70’ 64’ 61’ 60’ 59’ 58’ 55’ 50’ 50’ 50’ 50’ 50’ 45’

Marine Services is Chicagoland’s Premier Service and Storage Facility, located just 20 minutes south of Chicago in Dolton, IL. Our Certified Service Technicians can provide expert mechanical service for your engines, drives and auxiliary systems. Our paint and fiberglass shop can accommodate yachts up to 70 ft., serving both sailboats and powerboat enthusiasts.We share your passion for boating and can perform top quality hull and topside repairs. Call us for estimates on your repairs!

Azimut S7 Pershing 64 Sunseeker 61 Predator Baia 60 Force One Marquis 59 Azimut 58 Flybridge Azimut 55S Azimut 50 Fly Azimut 50 Atlantis Sea Ray 500 Express Sea Ray 500 Sea Ray 480 Sundancer Carver 455 Aft Cabin

2018 2014 2002 1990 2004 2011 2018 2018 2016 2000 1992 1991 1997

Call for Price $1,795,000 $559,000 $270,000 $585,000 $1,089,000 Call for Price Call for Price $850,000 $235,000 $128,900 $109,000 $139,900

Cummins diesels, $850,000

Volvo D6, $549,900

Volvo D6, $599,000

Mercruiser 8.1, $124,900

Florida Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Ohio Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL

44’ 43’ 43’ 43’ 42’ 42’ 42’ 41’ 38’ 34’ 34’ 34’ 33’ 32’

Sea Ray 440 Exp. Bridge Azimut 43 Atlantis Galeon 430 Skydeck Hatteras Double Cabin Galeon 420 Fly Regal 42 Sport Coupe Cruisers 415 Express MY Formula 41 PC Cruisers 3870 Express Azimut 34 Atlantis Carver C-34 Sea Ray 340 Express Rinker 330 Express Chris-Craft Amerosport

Volvo D3, $299,900

1997 2018 2016 1982 2018 2015 2008 1996 2003 2014 2013 1986 1999 1988

$119,900 Call for Price $550,000 $74,900 Call for Price $570,000 $200,000 $69,000 $124,900 $299,000 $288,900 $27,900 $44,900 $29,900

Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL

32’ 31’ 31’ 31’ 29’ 28’ 28’ 27’ 27’ 27’ 27’ 21’ 12’

Detroit diesels, $128,500

Volvo IPS 400, $570,000

27’ 2007 Rinker 270

300 HP Mercruiser, $39,900

Rinker 320 Express Sea Ray 310 Sundancer Larson 310 Cabrio Bayliner 3055 Formula F-29pc Glastron GS289 Cobalt 282 Rinker 270 Rinker 270 Rinker 270 Sea Ray 270 Sea Ray 210 Select Rigid Boats 12 Sport

2006 2008 2004 1999 1990 2011 2003 2007 2004 2000 1994 2007 2015

$69,900 $119,900 $39,900 $30,000 $29,900 $59,900 $39,900 $39,900 $32,900 $23,500 $9,000 $22,500 $19,900

Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL

For more information or to list your yacht, contact our Sales Team at: 708.841.5660 or BW@eliteyachtschicago.com, KS@eliteyachtschicago.com or MW@eliteyachtschicago.com WWW.

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF BOATS FOR SALE, PLEASE VISIT ELITEYACHTSCHICAGO.COM • WWW. GALEON.PL • WWW. AZIMUTYACHTS.COM


Marine Marketplace

OVER 200 BOATS IN STOCK! 2019 MODELS IN STOCK! 45 PRE-OWNED! 30 LEFTOVER 2018 MODELS!

2019 FOUR WINNS 240HD $545/MONTH, 15 YEARS AT 4.25%

2019’S IN STOCK TRI-TOONS STARTING @ $29,995 W/115HP

ANY BOAT PURCHASE INCLUDES FREE STORAGE AND DELIVERY THIS SPRING!

2017 MANITOU XPLODE SRS $89,995 - MUST GO!

MUSKEGON

759 E Broadway Ave 231-733-2433

ONEKAMA MARINE, INC. Onekama, MI • (231) 889-5000 www.onekamamarine.com

Riviera 4800 Sport

2019 195 ID STARTING @ $43,995 W/250HP

GRAND RAPIDS

0-345 Lake Michigan Dr 616-791-4566

2018 182 FISHERMEN $42,995

GRAND HAVEN

4 Harbor Island Dr 616-847-1455

WWW.HALLSSPORTCENTER.COM

LAKE MICHIGAN YACHT SALES

Bay Harbor, MI • (231) 439-2675 www.lakemichiganyachtsales.com

Monterey 238 SS

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

IN STOCK

262 Wellcraft Fisherman

On Order for Spring Delivery IN STOCK

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55’ 48’ 45’ 44’ 43’ 40’ 40’ 35’ 34’ 33’ 32’ 32’ 27’ 25’

‘90 ‘07 ‘69 ‘85 ‘06 ‘08 ‘67 ‘04 ‘81 ‘77 ‘99 ‘70 ‘85 ‘04

Fleming 55 ......................... $440,000 Sea Ray Sundancer ............ $440,000 Matthews ............................. $69,000 Gulfstar Motor Yacht ............ $95,000 Tiara Sovran ........................ $349,900 Fathom Expedition ............. $449,000 Chris Craft ............................ $90,000 Regal 3560 ........................... $89,900 Silverton ............................... $14,900 Egg Harbor ........................... $24,900 Nordic Tug .......................... $148,000 Downeaster.......................... $34,500 Sea Ray Sundancer twin I/Os......$7,900 Hunt Yachts Surfhunter ............ $95,000

FEATURED LISTING

2008 Fathom 40, $440,000

Marine Marketplace

Fresh Water Power!

YEAR-ROUND, FULL-SERVICE MARINA 821 W. Savidge, Spring Lake, MI 49456 Sales: 616-604-0234 / Marina: 616-842-1488 WWW.NORTHSHOREMARINA.COM

SELECT • PRE-OWNED • BROKERAGE • REPOSSESSIONS CALL FOR COMPLETE LIST!

ONLY STOCK 32 AVAILABLE IN USA New 2018 32 Yellowfin 18’ 20’ 20’ 20’ 21’ 22’ 22’ 23’ 23’ 25’ 25’ 25’ 25’ 25’ 26’ 29’ 30’ 32’ 34’ 34’ 35’ 35’ 37’ 37’ 38’ 38’ 38’ 40’ 47’ 56’

‘09 ‘16 ’15 ‘14 ‘12 ‘16 ‘07 ‘17 ’90 ‘16 ‘15 ‘06 ‘06 ’97 ’16 ‘13 ’01 ‘99 ‘02 ‘01 ’00 ‘99 ‘01 ‘87 ‘00 ’88 ’88 ‘89 ‘98 ‘06

CLEARANCE PRICED New 2018 Sailfish 275 DC

Boston Whaler Dauntless, 150HP Mercury, GPS/Sounder, bimini, trailer ...............................................................................................$32,900 Robalo 207 DC, 150HP Yamaha, ski tow, bow & cockpit covers, trailer ...................................................................................................$43,900 Proline WA, 150HP Mercury Verado, enclosure, GPS/Fish, cockpit cover, clean ..................................................................................$34,900 Carolina Skiff Fun Chaser, 150HP E-Tec, trailer, full vover, GPS, stereo, bimini ......................................................................................$33,900 JC Tri-toon, 115HP Mercury, full cover, ski tow, stereo, clean ..................................................................................................................$29,900 Chaparral, 4.5L Merc BIII, bow & cockpit covers, depth, premium stereo, trailer.................................................................................$49,900 Hydra Sports CC, 250HP e-tec, FBG t-top, GPS/Fish Finder, trailer, clean ...............................................................................................$44,900 Premier Tri-toon, 150HP Mercury 4S, full cover, bimini, GPS, ski tow ......................................................................................................$37,900 Chris Craft Mahogany Triple Cockpit Replica, 351 CI I/B, 60 hours, trailer ..............................................................................................$79,000 Premier Pontoon, 115HP Mercury 4S, full cover, bimini, ski tow ...............................................................................................................$37,900 Stingray Express, 350 MAG BIII, air/heat, camper, trim tabs, mid-cabin, clean .....................................................................................$59,900 Pursuit CC, 250HP Yamaha, T-Top, GPS/Sounder, VHF, trailer....................................................................................................................$49,900 Cobalt 250 BR, 6.2L Merc BIII, bow & cockpit cover, select exhaust,trailer .......................................................................................... $48,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, 5.7L Merc, cockpit cover, shorepower, trailer .........................................................................................................$17,900 Sailfish Dual Console, T-220 Yamaha 4S, hardtop, full electr, canvas enclosure .................................................................................$124,900 Chaparral Signature, T-4.3L Mercs, arch, camper top, air/heat, low hours ..........................................................................................$109,000 Pursuit 3070 Offshore, T-250HP Yamahas, hardtop, canvas enclosure, full electr. ................................................................................$59,900 Monterey express, T-5.7L Mercs, low hours, air/heat, full canvas, shows well .....................................................................................$39,900 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-8.1L Mercs, air, Genset, windlass, nicely equipped ............................................................................................$89,000 Sea Ray Sundancer, T-7.4L Mercs, air/heat, windlass, camper, full electr. ............................................................................................ $79,900 Formula Fast-Tec, T-500HP Mercs, racing drives, HP gears, extension boxes, trailer ..........................................................................$79,900 Carver 356 Aft, T-7.4L Mercs, air, Genset, bridge enclosure, full electr ...................................................................................................$79,900 Carver Voyager, T-7.4L, Enclosure, full electr, air/heat, one owner, low hours .......................................................................................$89,900 Silverton Convertible, T-7.4L, air/heat, GPS, one owner, super clean ......................................................................................................$34,900 Cruisers 3870, T-8.1L Mercs, air, genset, full electr, camper, loaded .......................................................................................................$117,900 Bayliner 3818, T-175HP Hino Diesels, air/heat, Genset, lower station, windlass ....................................................................................$49,900 Carver Aft Cabin, T-7.4L Crusaders, air/heat, Genset, hardtop ..................................................................................................................$45,900 Luhrs Convertible, T-7.4L Crusaders, air, Genset, full electr. and rigged for fishing...............................................................................$39,900 Bayliner 4788 Motor Yacht, T-330HP Cummins, low hours .......................................................................................................................$239,000 Carver Voyager, T-D9A Volvos, full elect, bow & stern thruster, loaded, clean ....................................................................................$496,000

harborviewyachtsales.com

PROFESSIONAL AND EXPERIENCED BROKERS, WE NEED LISTINGS!

t d s a lan , e u ve w Se le Sho 42! eC t 4 th Boa ooth B

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WE’RE HIRING SERVICE TEAM MEMBERS!

WILL CONSIDER DRIVEN, HARD-WORKING AND LOYAL CANDIDATES WHO MAY REQUIRE TRAINING. JBYS HAS SIX GREAT LAKES LOCATIONS, EXACT LOCATION OF EMPLOYMENT CAN BE FLEXIBLE DEPENDING ON LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE.

INTERESTED PARTIES, PLEASE CONTACT: Dave Ottenhoff, VP of Service, Service Manager/Partner (866) 490-5297 x157 or dottenhoff@jbys.com

2019 28' Buddy Davis ON ORDER! Twin 300hp Yamahas “Specia ing in Larger Yliz achts”

ICK TED PATR

Lake & Bay

Y A C H T

S A L E S

PARTIAL LISTING BELOW Visit us on the web for more! 09 70' Davis Sportfisherman T-1825hp Dsl ...$2,799,000 85 38' Bayliner 3880 Explorer T-250hp Dsl..........$54,900 79 58’ Hatteras Yacht Fish T-430HP Dsl ............$245,000 91 37' Sea Ray Sedan Bridge T-340hp ................$45,000 95 50' Sea Ray 500 Sundancer T-550hp Dsl ....$149,000 86 37’ Egg Harbor Convertible T-350HP............. $59,900 96 44' Silverton 442 MY T-420hp Dsl ....................$97,900 19 34’ Buddy Davis Cntr Cnsole Twin 425hp ...$399,900 86 44' Heritage East Trawler T-240hp Dsl...........$85,000 92 30’ Carver 300 Aft Cabin T-270hp.....................$29,900 19 42’ Buddy Davis Cntr Cnsole Quad 400hp....$799,900 19 28' Buddy Davis Center Console T-300hp ...On Order 18 42' Buddy Davis Cntr Cnsole Quad 350hp ..$699,000 03 28’ Sea Ray 280 Sundancer T-4.3 L.................$39,000 16 41' Silverton 4100 Coupe T-380hp Dsl ..........$599,900 70 26’ Lyman Sleeper S-225HP w/trailer............$18,900 03 39’ Carver 396 Aft Cabin T-370hp Dsl ...........$155,000 11 11' Brig 340 Eagle w/trailer S-30hp................... $7,500

www.yachtworld.com/lakeandbay 9454 Park Row | Lakeside/Marblehead, Ohio 43440 | lakeandbay@roadrunner.com Phone/Fax: 419-798-8511

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PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales (JBYS) is seeking full-time service technicians and service project managers. Ideal candidates will have the following qualifications: n Marine experience including boat handling n Work well independently n Knowledge in electrical, plumbing, diesel/gas and overall marine systems n Experience with warranty processing n Marine certifications preferred n Ability to use technology across various devices and programs n Project manager will have excellent communication skills and experience managing others

ng Celebratirs 27 yea ss e in busin


Marine Marketplace

Ronco Plastics holding & water tanks

established in 1976, Ronco Plastics has made holding tanks for the auto, marine and RV industries for 40 years. The company, based out of Tustin, California, currently offers more than 500 tanks to the marine industry. Ronco is dedicated to providing fast, friendly service and ensuring their customers are provided with exactly the tank they need. All tanks are made in the U.S and made of non-toxic, FDA accepted, high-density polyethylene. Marine tanks are available in capacities of 3 to 280 gallons. Ronco’s complete mold shop is available for custom tooling and prototype work, including custom molds or O.E.M tanks for almost any boat or recreational vehicle. n n n n n n n n

Holding and Water Tanks New Systems Auxiliary Systems Replacement tanks for Powerboats, Sailboats and Houseboats Made of non-corrosive polyethylene One-piece seamless construction Heavy wall density construction One-year limited warranty

BOAT LOANS Serving Boat Buyers Nationwide

Purchase Refinance Pre-approval Low rates Vincent Luzietti • Robert Dunford, Jr.

888-386-3888

Ronco-Plastics.com 714-259-1385

www.tridentfunding.com

BERGMANN MARINE

Charlevoix, MI 49720 • Phone 231/547-3957

www.bergmannmarine.com 23’ 2012 MasterCraft X-30 ....................... Call

39’ 1983 Lindmark Trawler 39............$60,000

27’ 2007 Sea Ray Amberjack ............$49,000

41’ 1975 Chris-Craft 410 M/Y ................SOLD

30’ 1981 Pearson Flyer........................$12,000

43’ 2006 Tiara 4300 Sovran ...................SOLD

31’ 1993 Sea Ray Amberjack ............$37,000

46’ 1999 Beneteau Oceanis 461 .....$169,900

31’ 1980 Sea Ray Vanguard...............$12,900

48’ 2006 Sea Ray 48 Sundancer..........SOLD

33’ 1998 Sea Ray 330 Sundancer........SOLD

48’ 2002 Fairline Targa 48 ................ $259,000

36’ 2002 Sea Ray 360 Sundancer........SOLD

50’ 1986 Chris-Craft Constellation ......$169,00

Fiberglass – Woodworking Storage – Heated Storage

Complete Mechanical Electrical Rigging – Haulout

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

ADDED SAfEty At thE Dock & on thE wAtEr

great gifts!

Boarding Pole

Extra assistance boarding the boat. $79.99/$99.99

cAll Jim StEfAno

419-341-0432

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Burgee Holder wave that flag. $59.00

nautical cross

Quickly tie-off fenders and tenders. $79.99/$99.99

| www.nauticalcross.com

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

Chitwood Charters Grand Banks Grand Banks 36 42 MTY

• Sarasota, Florida • Florida’s Beautiful West Coast • White Sand Beaches • Marina Jack Docks • Investment Tax Shelter FOR SALE Grand Banks 36’ Single & 42’ Twin MTY Grand Banks 49’ Twin, 3 staterooms, bare boat or captain

68’ 1958 Trumpy

For sale or charter

800-769-1399 • www.chitwood-charters.com


Classifieds

Place your classified online! Place your classified ad at lakelandboating.com by DECEMBER 14 to get into our February, March, April and May 2019 issues!

2018 ZODIAC PRO 7 NEO Recent trade, 100% freshwater, one owner. Yamaha F200XB with extended warranty, aft bench, roll bar, Pro HXLS Helm with forward seat, Custom LED courtesy lights, helm seat back rest, dual batteries and a built in dual bank battery charger, and more! Trailer not included. Asking $64,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0180 RYS

2014 FOUR WINNS 275 VISTA Only 12 hours on Volvo 320HP DP, AC/heat, genset, cockpit table, dinette table, full galley, head, full warranty, LOADED! MSRP $175K, asking only $99,000. Call 262-654-0207 or sales@glysinc.com GLYS

RIGID BOAT SPORTS TENDER, Coast GuardCertified, unsinkable, 100% fiberglass, Yamaha F25 (30hrs), Euro helm, many options. Trailer included. Tender for motor yacht “Chipso.” Asking $8,700. Contact Ron Ruhland at ronannruhland@ charter.net or call 989-316-2111 for information, video or pics. FEB19

1997 TIARA 3500 EXPRESS Freshwater, Twin Crusader 502, 350 hp gas engines, teak interior, sleep 6, generator, Garmin electronics, inverter, cockpit seating for 8, radar arch, swim platform, storage trunk, mechanical service and full professional buff, wax and detail just completed. Asking $89,900. Call Brent @ 616-402-0180 RYS

2006 CHRIS-CRAFT 43 ROAMER Rarely offered Hunt designed masterpiece. All amenities. Bow and stern thrusters. Beautiful fit and finish. Freshwater only, extensive equipment list. Asking $299,900. Call 262-654-0207. GLYS

2015 REGAL 53 SPORT COUPE Immaculate boat, only 60 hours. Every amenity imaginable. Never been lived aboard. Twin Cummins Zeus Pods. Truly luxurious, highest level of comfort and the latest in technology. Freshwater only. Asking $899,000. Call 231-409-1792 or email tammie.cornell@ grandbaymarine.com. FEB19

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

2002 31' FORMULA PC31 Twin 6.2 MPI MerCruisers. Asking $68,000. Contact 231-9335414 or info@harborviewyachtsales.com. HV

CLASSIC EGG HARBOR 40 YACHT for sale. Featured in Lakeland Boating’s September 2018 issue, page 72! Contact Ron Ruhland at ronannruhland@charter.net or call 989-316-2111 for information, video or pics. FEB19

2003 54' CRUISERS YACHTS 5470 Freshwater, twin Volvo diesels. Asking $399,900. Contact 231933-5414 or info@harborviewyachtsales.com. HV

1999 32' NORDIC TUG Freshwater, 220 HP Cummins. Asking $148,000. Contact 231-933-5414 or info@harborviewyachtsales.com. HV

1988 TIARA 36 CONVERTIBLE Freshwater, Crusader 454, low engine hours. Salon, large galley and two stateroom/one head layout. New canvas flybridge bimini top with full enclosure. Asking $64,900. Call Bob at 616-843-1225. RYS

EMPLOYMENT HELP WANTED: Experienced boat salesperson and technicians needed. The sooner the better! Please call: 630-330-5333. BAS

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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CLASSIC CRAFT

Black Beauty

ADD YOUR BOAT

80

In 1986, my father saw a 1957 Chris-Craft for sale in a St. Clair Shores marina while doing his routine marina rounds as the city fire marshall. He called my husband, Rick, knowing that we had been discussing the possibly of getting a larger boat. The thought of an older cruiser intrigued us since we were already involved in the Antique & Classic Boat Society and proud owners of a 1939 19-foot Chris-Craft Custom Runabout. We immediately thought of summer fun and cruising the Great Lakes aboard this boat with our two children, then ages 10 and 11. Rick, however, had other ideas of restoration before any cruising took place. As we dug into our new boat’s history we soon realized we really did have a special boat. She was hull number 75 of only 118 Futuras built in the production run from 1956 to 1958. And, she was the only Futura to come from the factory with black painted hullsides. This boat was built for Whitey Rommelare, who was the owner of Motor Boat Sales & Service, a Chris-Craft Dealer in Detroit. The name Black Beauty has always graced her transom, and she has always been in the Detroit area. This special boat deserved a special restoration — one that took 16 years to complete. Black Beauty’s restoration was completed in late 2002. By then, we were grandparents of two and were ready for the memories to begin — and begin they did. We have traveled to northern Michigan with her many times to attend boat shows in Hessel and Bay Harbor, and have enjoyed boating on Lake Charlevoix, Little Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan. We’ve taken the grandchildren tubing behind Black Beauty on the St. Clair River, and have had many picnics on her aft deck with family and friends on Lake Huron. We have been blessed to be her caretaker for the past 33 years and look forward to the many memories yet to come. —Rick & Diane Laenen, St. Clair, MI Email kbush@lakelandboating.com if you have a Classic Craft with a good story to share!

JANUARY 2019

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LAKELANDBOATING.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF RICK & DIANE LAENEN

Special boat, special restoration.


Boat insurance serviced by the boating experts. Get a fast, free quote today.

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