From the Helm

Seize the Season

Don’t let the colder months prevent you from exploring coastlines and scratching that boating itch. Even though the Great Lakes are on the brink of freezing and your boat may be tucked away for the winter, there’s no reason why you can’t seize the season by venturing to lower latitudes or booking a charter!

Chartering is the perfect vacation alternative, as you can still socially distance while basking in the tropical heat and getting your hours in at the helm. Contributor Heather Steinberger speaks with two charter companies to see why this option is ideal for Great Lakes boaters looking for a safe escape (p. 20).

If your boat is out of storage and ready to hit the water, cruise down to Florida’s spectacular Dry Tortugas National Park just west of Key West (p. 42). This park is a history- and scuba-lover’s paradise, with more than 300 shipwrecks and a retired fort that are ripe for exploration.

While you’re in Florida, tie up at Gulf Harbour Marina in Fort Myers, Florida (p. 54). This posh community on the Intracoastal Waterway is a launching pad for fantastic boating destinations. And if you decide you love the area, you can buy into the adjoining condominium association, which has features like a private golf, tennis and fitness center.

So seize this season by adventuring, relaxing and finding time to spend with family. The staff at Lakeland Boating and I wish you all Happy Holidays and a safe, healthy New Year!

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

CRAIG RITCHIE Born in Toronto, Craig named his first boat Bed in order to explain occasional absences from work. Whenever anyone asked, he would cough loudly and mumble about having spent the day in Bed. The key, he says, was to never forget the sunscreen. Read his story on p. 34

HHH

SUSAN R. POLLACK Award-winning travel journalist Susan R. Pollack has covered travel for 35 years, visiting scores of countries on five continents, 49 states, six Canadian provinces and hundreds of cities, islands and outposts along the way. Her award-winning stories and photos have appeared in major publications including The Detroit News, Toronto Star, Dallas News, Chicago Sun Times, Delta Sky, CRUISECRITIC.COM, THEWINEBUZZ.COM, DETROITNEWS.COM/ TRAVELBLOG and more. Follow her on Twitter @susanrpollack. Read her story on p. 46

HHH

Marty has put more than 35,000 nautical miles under the keel of her latest boat, Monarch, a Halverson 52-foot raised pilothouse trawler, and completed three Great Loops — so far. Read her story on p. 42

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