October 2014

PORT OF CALL: ERIE & pRESquE ISLE, pENNSyLVANIA OCTOBER 2014

Huron | ontario | MicHigan | EriE | SupErior

BelIZe 54 sedan AustrAliAn luxury journeys stAteside

p. 30

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p. 34

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K ELANDB

pONTOON ROuNdup:

Today’s ’toon offerings have a boat to fit every activity, lifestyle and budget

of boats

For sale

BEHINd THE dESIgN:

Great Lakes native Peter Granata is the man behind many of today’s most popular boat designs

DISPLAY UNTIL OCT. 31, 2014

p. 40

Spotlight on BOSTON WHALER | LARSON | RIVIERA | SABRE

EVERY BOAT NEEDS A PROTECTOR.

1.800.PROGRESSIVE / PROGRESSIVE.COM Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates.

contents

Departments From the Helm Mail Call Calendar

4 6 8

12 Scuttle

Great Lakes News, Boats, Must-Have, Buzz, Events, Business

18 20 22 24 25 26

42

almost perfect

Erie, Pennsylvania and adjacent Presque Isle offer visiting boaters the ideal setting for a year-round getaway.

by Craig Ritchie

Features 30

belize 54 Sedan Australian luxury packed with amenities.

by Capt. Tom Serio

34

the Spice of Life When it comes to pontoon boats, variety is the name of the game. Today’s pontoons have it in spades, with hundreds of models to choose from no matter your boating tastes and budget. by Gary Reich

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40

the Man behind the Mold Great Lakes-born and -bred, marine industry designer Peter Granata has made a career of bringing boats to life for their most important asset — the people who own them. by Heather Steinberger

Get Social! Like and follow Lakeland Boating on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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50 52 54 71 72

Don’t Hesitate to Renovate Corke Board Operation Summaries Ask the Expert Gearing Up Boat Spotlights: Boston Whaler, Larson, Riviera, Sabre Lakeshore Life Marina Watch Marine Marketplace Classifieds Above the Waterline

on

the Cover

The Belize 54 Sedan from Australian luxury yacht builder Riviera truly is a yachtsman’s yacht. She was designed by experienced yachtsmen Down Under with all the bells and whistles you could possibly dream up to include aboard a head-turning megayacht in her relatively conservative, 54-foot footprint. Guests will always feel comfortable and welcome, with plush accommodations in the salon, staterooms and aft deck. She’s cleverly designed to usher the outdoors in. Family and friends can enjoy a starry, summer night tied up at the dock or underway on an exciting adventure. Every room has a view on board the Belize 54.

@ lakelandboating.com • NEW! Great Lakes boat Search at greatlakesboatsearch.com • Search boats for sale by owner • Purchase our Great Lakes Cruising Guides • Access past issues with our online magazine • Place a classified ad to sell your boat • Find advertising information • And much more! photo by visiteriepa . com

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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october 2014

from the helm

October 2014 | Volume LXVIII, No. 10

‘Toon Time

Publisher Walter “Bing” O’Meara editorial staff Editorial director: Lindsey Johnson Editor-at-large: Heather Steinberger Associate editor: Kate Bush

T

his summer has been a busy one with boat shows, dealer meetings, media days… nary a week or two has gone by without something of significance happening in our industry — everything from new boat and motor introductions to corporate mergers and acquisitions.

The signs are there; the boat business is picking up steam, and as it does you’ll notice there have been some changes afoot.

Among the most obvious is the rapid growth of the pontoon boat sector. Typically, your grandfather’s pontoons would be powered by low-horsepower outboards and crawl along at a snail’s pace. Not at all true of the pontoon boats today. Modern ’toons have grown in size and complexity, and so, too, has the horsepower rating of the outboards pushing these platforms along. It’s not unusual to see pontoons powered by twin outboards sporting up to 300 horses apiece.

And power’s not the only upgrade in the pontoon world; creature comforts and high-end styling also are taking center stage. Bennington makes a luxurious model with mahogany siding and large engines that sports a hefty six-figure price tag.

Who’s buying these boats? Young people getting into boating for the first time and baby boomers trading down from their bigger boats, primarily. Deck boats also are popular among these same age groups.

These days, there’s a pontoon boat for everyone.

To see what’s right for you, check out Gary Reich’s story on page 34. Gary highlights nine of the industry’s major pontoon manufacturers and profiles their vast array of offerings spanning all activity levels (cruising, entertaining, wakeboarding, etc.) and price ranges (under $20,000 up to an excess of $100,000-plus).

As is evidenced by the growing popularity of pontoons in particular, it’s important to note that boating is not dying, and not all baby boomers are put out to pasture in Sun City.

Case in point: My friend, Ed Stein, is 97 years

Creative staff Art director/production manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs Contributors Elizabeth Altick, Mark Corke, Mike Harris, Paul Kemiel, Capt. Frank Lanier, Nancy McGregor, Mike Page, Gary Reich, Craig Ritchie, Capt. Tom Serio, Dave Wallace, Thomas R. Wilson

old. He swims daily and has done so for the last 77 years. On weekends, he sails his 36-foot Catalina.

I recently heard about another 95 year-old sailor.

Remember: Eighty is the new 40.

Back in June, I was invited to a meeting in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, the home of Mercury Marine.

After the meeting, we were given a wonderful tour of the newly opened Mercury Museum. I would recommend stopping by when you’re up that way. So much wonderful history about a marine industry icon!

During the museum visit, I was with a group of journalists from boating magazines around the world . I was one of the last ones through the front door and made a b-line to the outboard section.

Why? Because when I was a kid, my family spent a few weeks every summer at Panther Pond in Maine.

We had a Sebago Runabout with a 10-horsepower Mercury Hurricane engine. It was the first boat and motor my father let me drive.

As I ogled the engines on display, I looked around and noticed other guys wrapped up in emotional nostalgia just like me.

For many of us, this is where it all began…

See you on the water,

notice to subscribers: You will ONLY receive renewal notices by mail directly from Lakeland Boating; we will NEVER contact you by phone or via a third-party company! You can renew by calling 800-827-0289 or visit our website, lakelandboating.com, and click on the “Subscribe” tab. All renewals should be mailed back to: Lakeland Boating, < — PO Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-9991.

B

ew of are sca ms!

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photo courtesy of larson

business staff Advertising sales representative: Mark Conway Regional/classified sales manager: Patti McCleery Marketing director: Linda O’Meara Accounting: Marguerite Wristen editorial & advertising offiCe 727 South Dearborn | Suite 812 | Chicago, IL 60605 Phone: 312-276-0610 | Fax: 312-276-0619 E-mail: staff@lakelandboating.com Website: lakelandboating.com Classified advertising 727 South Dearborn | Suite 812 | Chicago, IL 60605 Phone: 800-331-0132, ext. 21 | Fax: 312-276-0619 subsCriPtions P.O. Box 15396 | North Hollywood | CA 91615-5396 Customer Service: 800-827-0289 o’meara-brown PubliCations inC. President: Walter B. O’Meara Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194), copyright 2014, is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. Editorial and advertising offices are located at 727 S. Dearborn St., Suite 812, Chicago, IL 60605; 312-276-0610. Annual subscription rates: United States, $24.95 per year; International and Canadian, $36.95 per year (11 issues), includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. registration number 894095074-RT0001) and $12 postage included.

Single copies are $4.99 for U.S. and Canada. Only U.S. funds are accepted. Subscription correspondence should be addressed to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396 (U.S.), or call 800-827-0289.

Known office of publication: 727 South Dearborn Street, Suite 812, Chicago, IL 60605. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER, please send all 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., Chicago, Illinois. Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. Unsolicited work may be submitted at the author’s, photographer’s or artist’s own risk. Lakeland Boating assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited material. All submissions must be accompanied by a selfaddressed envelope with sufficient return postage.

Printed in the U.S.A

Mail call

Seeing Green In the early morning hours of August 2, test results from the Toledo water treatment plant in Toledo, Ohio showed mycrocystin levels exceeding those “recommended” for human consumption. Mycrocystin is a toxic byproduct of cyanotoxins, or blue-green algae, so potent that the military has studied its potential to be weaponized.

The reality is that an estimated 50 million people live and depend on the fresh water in and around the Great Lakes, and the impacts far exceed the ability to swim or go fishing. More recently, 70 miles to the southeast of Toledo and more than 10 miles to the south of Lake Erie, the Upper Reservoir that provides water to the City of Norwak, Ohio had mycrocystin levels in excess of 20 parts per billion. The EPA’s limit (a recommendation, not a requirement) for recreational use is 6 parts per billion and 1 part per billion for consumption.

Currently there are no testing requirements, standards for mycrocystin levels or regulations mitigating the inputs contributing to the excess algae blooms. Test results of the water at intake locations published by the Toledo Water

Got something to say?

E-mail us at Staff lakelandboatinG. com ,

or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 727 South Dearborn St., Suite 812, Chicago, IL 60605. The opinions expressed in Mail Call are not necessarily those of Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

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LAKELANDBOATING.COM

District and Ottawa County Regional Water show that the high levels of mycrocystin in Lake Erie persist throughout the western basin. Establishing comprehensive federal guidelines will provide local governments and water districts

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october 2014

with the framework to move forward with technical protocols and infrastructure needs to ensure a safe water supply.

It’s important to provide the necessary resources for our water treatment facilities to ensure safe water for our communities, but we can’t ignore the primary cause of the problem: Increases in phosphorous levels combined with the warmer water temperatures have resulted in increased cyanotoxin blooms. The International Joint Commission, an advisory agency made up of Canadian and U.S. officials, said last year that urgent steps are needed to reduce phosphorus applied to fields, suggesting, among other things, that states and provinces ban the spread of manure on frozen or snow covered ground. To the credit of Ohio lawmakers and administrators, Ohio enacted a law requiring most farmers to undergo training prior to applying commercial fertilizers.

The Great Lakes provide far more than beautiful views and a platform for recreation; healthy freshwater sources are vital to our communities. It’s imperative that efforts be made to establish mycrocystin guidelines for our water facilities and investments be made in these facilities to ensure safe water. To stem further decline of the lakes, restrictions on phosphorous are required.

—Jim Stouffer CEO, Catawba Island Club, Port Clinton, OH

calendar of events

Sept 30 – Oct 4

Oct 11

Oct 18

World Dairy Expo Madison, WI

Applefest Two Rivers, WI

Annual Shipwreck Ball Manitowoc, WI

travelwiScOnSin.cOm

viSitwiScOnSin.cOm

travelwiScOnSin.cOm

Oct 1 – 31

Fall Colors Bridge Race Mackinaw City, MI

Boo at the Bay & Pirate Day Sandusky, OH

mackinawcity.cOm

SanduSkymaritime.Org

Lakeshore Brew Fest West Olive, MI

Mississippi Valley Fall Fest Cruise Grafton, IL

michigan.Org

acbS.Org/calendar

Lakeside-Marblehead Lighthouse Festival Lakeside, OH

Octogaween Kelleys Island, OH

Ghost Tours of Door County Door County, WI zerve.cOm/dOOrtrOlley/ghOSt

You’ll find apples a-plenty at this year’s Applefest, October 11 in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. That same day, runners will gear up to participate in the Fall Colors Bridge Race in Mackinaw City, Michigan.

Oct 3 – 4 Chain O’Lakes Blues Fest Waupaca, WI travelwiScOnSin.cOm

Ghosts of Galloway Fond du Lac, WI

lakeSideOhiO.cOm

travelwiScOnSin.cOm

Oktoberfest Sheboygan, WI travelwiScOnSin.cOm

Oct 3 – 5 Haunted Weekend on Mackinac Island Mackinac Island, MI mackinaciSland.Org

Oct 4 Island Wine Festival Put-in-Bay, OH viSitputinbay.cOm

Oct 4

Kohler Food & Wine Experience Sheboygan, WI

pentwater.Org

travelwiScOnSin.cOm

Oct 11 – 12

Oct 24 – 25

Annual Island Oktoberfest Put-in-Bay, OH

Maritime History Ghost Walk Manitowoc, WI

viSitputinbay.cOm

wiScOnSinmaritime.Org

Fall Fun Fest Washington Island, WI

Oct 25

waShingtOniSland-wi.cOm

ShOreSandiSlandS.cOm

eggharbOrdOOrcOunty.Org

Oct 4 – 5

Oct 17 – 19

Harvest Happenings Huron, OH

Fall Fest Sister Bay, WI

ShOreSandiSlandS.cOm

SiSterbaytOuriSm.cOm

Oct 4 – 18

Little Traverse Bay Parafest Petoskey, MI petOSkey.uS

Oct 4 – 19

Antiques on the Bluff St. Joseph, MI

Oct 25 – 26 Ellison Bay Arts Fall Art Crawl Ellison Bay, WI dOOrcOuntynOrth.Org

Oct 30 – nOv 3 Fort Lauderdale Intl. Boat Show Fort Lauderdale, FL ShOwmanagement.cOm

Oct 31 Trick or Treating in the Harbor Baileys Harbor, WI

michigan.Org

Oct 5

Spooktacular in Pentwater Pentwater, MI pentwater.Org

bOyneharveStfeStival.cOm

michigan.Org

Halloween at the Bay Put-in-Bay, OH viSitputinbay.cOm

Oak Harbor Apple Festival Oak Harbor, OH Pumpkin Patch Festival Egg Harbor, WI

Autumn Color Tour River Cruises Bay City, MI

Oct 23 – 26

Oktoberfest in Pentwater Pentwater, MI

Boyne City Harvest Festival Boyne City, MI

Depot to Depot Fall Color Tour Muskegon, MI

kelleySiSlandchamber.cOm

baileySharbOr.cOm

Have a spooktacular afternoon at Octogaween, taking place October 18 on Kelleys Island, Ohio.

Sjcity.cOm

Oct 9 – 12 Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival Alpena, MI michigan.Org

Oct 10 – 11 Fort Fright Night at Michilimackinac Mackinaw City, MI mackinawcity.cOm

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LAKELANDBOATING.COM

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OctOber 2014

apples photo courtesy of lester public library ; bridge photo courtesy of michigan fitness foundation ; octogaween photo courtesy of lake erie shores and islands

MORE ROOM. BETTER VIEW. ALL AT YOUR COMMAND.

THE CARVER C34 COMMAND BRIDGE Unobstructed views fore and aft from the expansive bridge, plus 360-degree views from the roomy salon. Enjoy onboard living and cruising with the kind of comfort and safety you can clearly see.

See the complete line at carveryachts.com

See The Difference.

...it iS the Journey that matterS in the enD. —Ernest Hemingway

we’ll guide you along the way.

For more than 40 years, Cal Marine has worked hard to earn the business of generations of Great Lakes boaters, and to help them become more skillful and confident, increasingly enjoying their time on the water with each new season.

Guiding you to the right boat, equipping you with the skills needed to confidently enjoy that boat; it’s your journey that matters.

Announcing our new name – BEACON MARINE. More than ever before, our goal is to be a guide, a beacon, for your boat-buying and boat-owning journeys.

Formerly Cal Marine

Door County 920.854.4521 | ChiCago 630.474.0145 | www.beaConmarinellC.Com

Scuttle

Great Lakes News | Boats | Must-Have | Buzz | Events | Business

Proffitt Captures Trenton Title

Mark Proffitt of Jacksboro, Tennessee races en route to his first UIM World Championship in the SST 200 Class of the 64th Annual PNC Roar on the River, July 18-20 on the Detroit River in Trenton, Michigan. He celebrates atop the winner’s podium (inset) with second-place finisher Jimmie Merleau and third-place winner Dan Orchard.

— Paul Kemiel

Explore Lake Michigan lighthouses with the free 2014 Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour travel map. The map features travel information for the entire 1,100-mile Lake Michigan Circle Tour Route through four states and spotlights 20 lighthouses, including photos and special details. For more information, wvisit wMtA.org.

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LAKELANDBOATING.COM

great lakes news

Zebra Mussels Fuel Lake Erie’s Algae Bloom National news has exploded with reports of the toxic algae bloom covering Lake Erie near northern Ohio and the emergency water ban surrounding cities faced. But what reports often fail to mention is the primary source of the toxic algae outbreak: Zebra and quagga mussels.

These mollusks are aquatic invasive species that cling to the sides of boats and have spread like wildfire throughout the Great Lakes. They remove sediment and food particles and suck natural resources out of the waters and, in effect, have endangered native species.

One thing that they don’t collect, however, is the toxic algae rapidly forming in Lake Erie.

While the water ban in Toledo, Ohio is now over, the algae problem isn’t going away anytime soon — and definitely not with the help of its main allies, the zebra and quagga mussels.

Another contributing factor to the algae blooms is excess phosphorous in the lake due to fertilizer runoff.

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october 2014

boats

Prestige Adds Models to 2014-15 Lineup Celebrating its 25th year building luxury yachts, Prestige recently announced the introduction of two new models: The Prestige 750 and Prestige 420.

The Prestige 750 features an expansive aft platform and immense flybridge. Designed with a modern flair and open concept, the 750 creates a perfect space to entertain.

The 420 offers the same luxury as the 750, but on a more intimate scale. Featuring timeless lines and a spacious, yet comfortable interior, it’s one of the most efficient and economical IPS400s on the market and is available in flybridge or coupe versions.

For more information, visit Prestige-yAchts.coM.

race photos by paul kemiel

buzz

Suzuki Production Reaches Three Million Suzuki recently celebrated a major milestone: Production of its three millionth outboard motor, 49 years after launch of the company’s first outboard motor, the D55, in 1965. This accomplishment comes at an exciting time for Suzuki, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2015.

“This is a fantastic achievement for the company,” says George Cheeseman, Suzuki’s sales and marketing manager for its ATV and marine division. “We’re hoping this particular unit will be making its way over to British shores in the coming months, so, we’ll be keeping a close eye on it to see who ends up owning the three millionth Suzuki outboard!”

Suzuki’s current portfolio includes outboards as small as the lightweight and portable DF2.5 up through the award-winning DF300AP Lean Burn.

For more information, visit Suzukimarine.Com.

boats

Rec Boat Holdings Debuts Scarab 165

buzz

Beachworks LLC Debuts Superlauncher Beachworks LLC, the inventors and builders of the Beachlauncher, have recently debuted the company’s latest model: The Superlauncher.

This monster unit is capable of launching boats weighing as much as 10,000 pounds at lengths up to 35 feet. It’s a simple, time-saving way to launch and retrieve your boat from your waterfront property in just minutes, not hours — all from the comfort of your cockpit.

The Superlauncher’s drive train features six tracks over 12 tires, driven by a 40-hp Subaru Robin gasoline engine.

The unit’s frame boasts galvanized steel, cedar wood deck with stairs, carpeted adjustable bunks and wireless remote control with 600-foot range. All parts for the Beachlauncher and Superlauncher are manufactured and assembled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

For more information, visit theBeaChLaunCher.Com.

superlauncher photo courtesy of beachworks llc

This has been quite a year for Cadillac, Michiganbased Rec Boat Holdings, now a part of the Jeanneau family of brands, which launched the new Scarab line of jet boats back in January. Since then, RBH has released two models in the lineup: The Scarab 195 and Scarab 215.

Now, the company is tapping into the 16-foot category with the brand-new Scarab 165, powered by the Rotax 4-TEC jet propulsion system.

Packing amenities and jet boat fun into a compact, 15-foot, 9-inch package, the 165 comes in three models: The 150-hp 165; 250-hp 165 HO; and the 250-hp 165 HO Impulse. And with a low introductory price of $19,998, the Scarab 165 is a perfect entry-level family boat. It comes standard with a low-profile swim platform, reboarding ladder, ski tow and exclusively designed Comfort Ride seats.

For more information, visit

The Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA) is now offering a free Boating Safety Information Kit. The kit includes information designed to help promote safe boating and to educate boaters on how to operate their vessel responsibly.

Features include information on weather, rip tides, personal watercraft and green boating.

For more information, visit mBia.org.

SCaraBBoatS.Com.

BTW: Check out Lakeland Boating’s test on the Scarab 195 HO Impulse in the April 2014 issue (p.

26)!

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great lakes news

Can-Do Attitude Steals St. Clair, MI Title

CAT CAN DO, a 40-foot Skater cat powered by a pair of 1550 hp Sterling engines, is led by driver Keith Holmes, of Nunica, Michigan, and throttleman Barry Glovick. They laid down the gas to a win in the Extreme Class at the

20th Annual St. Clair River Classic, July 26-27 on the St. Clair River in St. Clair, Michigan. Here, Holmes and Glovick are all smiles as they celebrate with the CAT CAN DO crew after winning the race (inset). — Paul Kemiel

boats

Jeanneau Announces New Models Jeanneau’s lineup is about to get a whole lot bigger, as the company expands its offerings for 2014-15.

The French-based manufacturer will offer new inboard models in its Flybridge, Express and Sedan segments, ranging from 30 to 43 feet, and new outboard models from 15 to 28 feet in the Dayboat and Weekender segments: n The Leader 36 is a sporty, family-friendly Express that features a v-shaped hull, sleek lines and lots of comfort n The Velasco 37F, along with the Velasco 43F, are designed for cruising and feature a softened “flybridge-style” design n The Cap Camarat 7.5 CC and 7.5 WA feature modern, sporty lines, new hull shape and are optimized for a single engine up to 300 hp. n The Merry Fisher 695 will embody all the class of its little sister, the 625, yet provide even more space and comfort For more information on these and other models, visit jeAnneAu.CoM.

Chicago, Illinois’ 31st Street Harbor, which opened back in 2012, has seen little activity in the past two years — but that’s all about to change. The harbor has added a floating swimming pool, pool deck and washroom facilities. The additions are expected to attract more transient boaters to the harbor and should be complete by the end of August 2014.

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must - have

Portable Cup Holders You can never have too many cup holders on board.

Feeding off this philosophy, Elkhart, Indiana-based Terry Graber & Associates has taken the cup holder concept and made it portable.

The company manufactures a series of portable cup holder units available in four color combinations that are designed to match most common marine upholstery. Units are wrapped with high-grade marine vinyl and boast two-tone finish, high-gloss acrylic top and inset, nickel-plated cup holders built to withstand the harshest weather conditions.

For more information, visit BuyCuPHolDerS.CoM. must - have

Better Than Teak Marine Flooring Got a hankering for teak on board, but don’t fancy the high cost of installation or upkeep considerations? If so, Infinity Fabrics has the perfect alternative for you.

Better Than Teak is a luxury woven vinyl collection designed to look like real teak, but with the ease of maintenance and affordability of much less expensive flooring material. It’s available in 17 color options and is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional teak.

This flooring will be available on many new 2015 boat manufacturer models, or spruce up your current boat by adding a teak-like touch this offseason.

For more information, visit InFInITyFABrICSllC.CoM.

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race boat photos by paul kemiel

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boats

Larson Boat Group Introduces 1850 DC Larson Boat Group of Little Falls, Minnesota created a revolution of freshwater, eco-conscious, multi-species fish boats, and to top it all off the company is now introducing its new Larson FX 1850 Dual Console (DC).

Like all Larson FX series boats, the 1850 DC features Larson’s patented VEC Composite Technology that ensures controlled overall boat weight and a smooth ride. VEC manufacturing produces 91 percent less emissions than traditional open-mold fiberglass boatbuilding techniques, according to the company.

Whether you’re a weekend angler or tournament pro, the 1850 DC has a hull bottom designed to get you to the fishing grounds with ease and in comfort. Popular features include an expansive cockpit, 25-gallon insulated livewell and huge casting platform.

For more information, visit LarsonfxserIes.Com.

must - have

High Tide Marine Power Cords Cleveland, Ohio-based manufacturer Electric Cord Sets Inc. recently introduced a new line of shore power cords and adaptors.

All High Tide Marine Power Cords are nonmarring, in bright yellow and white colors for clear visibility and are guaranteed 100 percent waterproof. They meet U/L and CSA standards and are RoHS compliant.

For more information, visit eLeCorDset.Com.

buzz

boats

Beneteau Unveils monte Carlo 4 Debuting at California’s Newport Boat Show in April, Beneteau expanded its Monte Carlo Yachts line by introducing the all-new Monte Carlo 4.

Yacht charter and sailboat rental company The Moorings has released a Charter Guide app for the British Virgin Islands (BVI). The free app will help charterers by offering information on where to cruise and what to do while chartering the BVI, as well as allow charterers to conveniently take educational courses through app. For additional information, visit moorInGs.Com/

LAKELANDBOATING.COM

Long gone are the days of zooming, squinting and scrolling on your phone to view online content.

Yamaha Marine Group of Kennesaw, Georgia offers boaters a slick, new way to view its products online. The new company website, yamahaoUtBoarDs.Com,

The MC4 combines attention to detail with performance in this luxury motoryacht. The spacious MC4 features generous flybridge, incredible living quarters and massive salon that can accommodate six people.

The boat also offers a double-wide seat at the helm, large sun pad and oversized windows. Below deck, retreat to a full-beam master cabin with two panoramic windows, rich leather upholstery and forward guest cabin with overhead skylights.

For more information, visit monte CarLoyaChts.It.

BvIapp.

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Yamaha Optimizes Website

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oCtoBer 2014

is mobile-optimized and responsive, so consumers will easily be able to view clean graphics and copy right from their phone.

“We continue our commitment to provide Yamaha consumers and dealers with an even better online experience, and that includes our mobile community,” says Frank Wilhelm, Yamaha Marine Group manager. “Mobile and tablet traffic to the website have steadily increased, so the need was clear to provide information in a more streamlined and mobile-friendly format.”

For more information, visit yamahaoUtBoarDs.Com.

w a t e r. we live to be on the

SunbrellaÂŽ is a registered trademark of Glen Raven, Inc.

Enjoy your time on the water with friends, family and the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most trusted marine fabric. sunbrella.com/wake

don’t hesitate to renovate | by Capt. Frank Lanier

Hard Wired Plan and install antennas and coax runs like a pro.

W

ant to install a TV or second VHF radio, but get cold feet every time you contemplate the antenna portion of the installation? Put your mind — and body — at ease by following these simple installation tips and tricks.

Choosing the right antenna Antenna selection is one of those areas where you really do get what you pay for. Regardless of the system (VHF radio, TV, etc.), performance of your unit will only be as good as the antenna you pair it with.

For example, considerations for a VHF antenna would include factors such as price, performance characteristics and quality of construction. Lower-end antennas often use a nylon ferrule (mounting base) that is more prone to failure than the chromed brass ones found in better quality units. On the flip side, higher-end antennas also use better coax (the cable that conducts the signal from the antenna to your radio, TV, etc.).

Speaking of coax, they’re not all the same, and choosing the correct one is another important consideration. There are a number of different types of coax cable available, the choice of which is based on use and the specific installation.

Options range from RG-58 (the least expensive) and RG 59

Most antenna installations can easily be accomplished by the average DIYer with minimum fuss.

(for TV and SATNAV use) to RG-8X and RG-8U (one of the better coax cables, providing the least amount of signal loss). Signal loss for cable runs on smaller vessels (typically less than 20 feet) is not generally a huge concern; however, even in such a short run signal, loss can be double when using RG-58 versus RG-8U. Some antennas come with a length of coax cable (which may or may not be long enough for your project), while others provide a short lead and require the purchase of additional cable and connectors. As with any coax wire run, the primary concern here is signal loss — a factor of cable length, quality of construction and the number of connectors (all of which can increase signal loss).

Before you fire up the drill Before beginning any project, take a moment to step back and visualize the installation as a whole. Draw out the entire installation and mentally walk though it in an effort to head off any potential problems.

You’ve chosen a location for the radio or TV, but is there a path to run power and antenna coax? Can you access the mounting nuts and bolts for the antenna mount?

The most daunting part of an antenna installation to many DIYers is routing the coax; however, it doesn’t have to be that way if you plan the run first and have the proper tools available.

One of the handiest tools for pulling coax (or any wire, for that matter) is an electrician’s “fish tape,” or wire snake.

Snakes must be stiff enough to maintain their shape while pushing, yet supple enough to twist around curves and

Cable Pulling 101 • When pulling wire or coax, use a firm, steady motion and always pull at the flattest angle possible to reduce friction. This approach puts less stress on the wire, while reducing the chances of tears or damage to insulation (or the coax itself).

• When using a snake, feed it through first with nothing attached, then attach the cable or wire bundle to the bitter end of the snake and pull everything back through slowly. Make this attachment as small as possible for easier pulling (covering the joint with a few tight wraps of electrical tape will make it more streamlined).

• When pulling larger wire bundles, stagger the wires where attached to the snake, which both reduces the profile of the joint and makes it easier to pull around tight bends.

• Include and leave an extra pull string in place when pulling wire or coax (to assist with future installations).

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Always pull coax (or any wire, for that matter) at the flattest angle possible to reduce friction.

photos by capt . frank lanier

don’t hesitate to renovate

bends. Those made of tempered wire are commonly used, although newer, more flexible units made of fiberglass or other composite materials also are popular. Regardless of the snake material you chose, you’ll want to be able to twist the snake to better make turns and bends, reducing or eliminating the number of additional holes needed to facilitate installation.

Doing the deed Once you’ve selected an antenna, planned out the installation and assembled all of the necessary tools and required installation items (coax, connectors, etc.), it’s time to get down to business. Here are some simple tips to help you reach antenna installation nirvana: n After selecting a location for the antenna, use the provided template (or, lacking that, possibly the antenna base itself) to mark and drill holes for the mounting hardware. Use nuts and bolts rather than screws, if possible.

If it looks like space will be an issue, now’s the time to do a dry run by placing the antenna in the chosen location (to assure adequate clearance) prior to drilling. n Make doubly sure of what’s on the other side of the mount location prior to drilling; putting holes in hoses, electrical cables or even the hull itself are never conducive to a good install. n Be sure to bed (caulk) the antenna mount with a

Ensure all coax cable runs are routed to prevent damage.

suitable, marine-grade caulking to prevent leaks. If drilling through cored panels, seal the exposed coring with epoxy to prevent moisture entry and the problems associated with it (rot, delamination, etc). n Make the coax run as short and straight as possible (avoiding 90-degree bends or kinks), but leave a couple of feet at the equipment end. Provide support and chafe protection (grommets, etc.) where necessary. n Solder-on antenna connectors were once the gold standard for coax, but they can be a bear to install properly.

Good-quality, crimp-on (no-solder) connectors are now available and provide excellent service. LB

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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corke board | by Mark Corke

Knowing the Ropes Three all-important knots you should learn how to tie.

K

nots are an essential part of the boating lifestyle. Whether it’s tying your dinghy to the dock or attaching a fender to a lifeline, it helps to have a basic understanding of which knot is appropriate to use and when.

Tie the wrong knot, and it can mean the unplanned escape of some rather expensive boating gear or equipment, or, worse still, you can’t actually undo the rope without resorting to knives or other damaging tools. Neither situation is ideal, and both are totally avoidable.

There are whole books written about knots and knot-tying, and you could a spend several lifetimes reading about and learning them all. Thankfully, though, just a few basic knots will serve you well on board your boat.

The three knots described below are fairly simple and well worth learning if you don’t know them already: The bowline, the round turn and two half hitches, and the sheet bend.

It’s a good idea to practice them with a spare length of rope until they become second nature; one day, you may need to tie them in somewhat of a hurry!

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The Bowline Let’s begin with the bowline ( pronounced “bo-lin”). Easy to tie, it’s probably one of the most useful knots that a boat owner can learn. The bowline is used for making a temporary loop in the end of the rope. It also is easy to untie, even after it’s been under load.

How to tie it: 1 Start by making an over-hand loop and hold it between your fingers and thumb 2 Pass the working end up through the overhand loop 3 Pass the working end around the back of the standing part 4 Carry the working end back through the loop, and grasping the end in the right hand snug up the knot, thus completing the bowline. You can vary the size of the loop by starting the knot farther down the standing part. As with all rope work, practice makes perfect.

The Round Turn and Two Half Hitches This is a useful knot for such jobs like attaching fenders to handrails or tying the dinghy painter to a piling.

How to tie it: 1 Start by passing the standing part around the post or railing twice; in this case, I am showing it on a large shackle 2 Pass the working end over the standing part, then pass it up between the turns and the rope where it crosses the standing part 3 Pass the working end over the standing part one more time and come up from the back a second time

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Mark Corke is an accomplished journalist, author and sailor. He’s the creator of the popular blog onboardwithmarkcorke.com, which focuses on various DIY boating projects.

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photos by mark corke

corke board

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The Sheet Bend One of the easiest and quick-to-tie knots aboard a boat is the sheet bend. It’s the most common method for joining two ropes together if they need to be elongated to reach the side of a lock or pier, for instance. If the joining ropes are of unequal diameter, form the loop in the larger rope and create the knot with the smaller rope.

How to tie it:

1 Start by forming a loop in the end of one of the ropes, then pass the end of the other rope 2 3 4 5

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through the loop Pass the working end of the second rope (yellow in the photo) around the short end of the loop and then behind the first rope (the purple one) Pass the working end to the front of the knot and then back under itself Work everything up tight (as shown), which will lock the two ropes together For extra security when combining ropes of differing diameters or ropes that are slippery, pass the working end around the back of the knot a second time, forming what is then known as a “double sheet bend” LB

Knot Lingo Without getting too technical, there are a couple of terms that makes understanding any rope work easier to comprehend: n The working end of a rope is the end that’s passed around the other parts to form the knot. Thus, if you are a right-handed person, the working end will be in your right hand, and you will move this to form the knot. n The standing part of a rope is the section around which the working end is moved to create the knot.

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www.thebeachlauncher.com ocToBer 2014

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opsums

operation Summaries Learning lessons the hard way in the U.S. and Canada Kayakers Rescued Near Jetties

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South Padre Island, Texas — July 24 Two male kayakers, ages 16 and 18, attempted to paddle across the South Padre Island Jetties in a one-person kayak when the kayak capsized close to the jetties’ rocks.

South Padre Beach Patrol was on scene shortly after the kayakers were reported in the water. Beach patrol determined it was unsafe to bring them onto the nearby rocks, so they radioed USCG to bring a rescue boat to pick up the pair.

“The happy outcome of this case was due to the quick response and professionalism of Beach Patrol, who knew when to request further assistance and not let a dangerous situation get worse.” says Petty Officer 2nd Class Stuart Park, the crewman in charge of the response boat. “Only one of these kayakers was wearing a life jacket.” The two kayakers were not injured.

Report by DVIDSHUB.NET; photo courtesy of USCG

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Missing Charter Boat Found Houston, Texas — July 29 A charter boat that departed from Galveston Yacht Basin with four people aboard was reported missing. The family contacted the U.S. Coast Guard after the boat was overdue and they had been waiting several hours for their loved ones to return.

USCG search crews located the 29-foot fishing charter, Reel Deep, about 40 miles offshore after a night of searching.

“We heard them say they had good news,” says one of the passenger’s mothers. “They came in and said they found them, and that all four were okay.”

Report by USCgNEwS.CoM; photo courtesy of USCG

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Boat Collision Kills Two

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Lakeside, California — August 1 While boating on El Capitan Reservoir in a no-wake zone, a Ranger bass boat carrying two passengers collided with a stationary boat with two passengers aboard. The impact ejected all passengers from both boats.

The Ranger was traveling at high speeds when it hit the stationary boat. The impact instantly killed one man, injured two more men, and a search operation went into effect for the fourth man. His body was later recovered.

Report by CBS8.CoM; photo courtesy of CBS8 Video

Five Rescued from Burning Boat

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New Orleans, Louisiana — July 25 A 40-foot Viking cabin cruiser, Persuasion I, caught fire with five passengers aboard near Petit Bois Island.

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The passengers abandoned ship and boarded a life raft. A good Samaritan offshore supply vessel, Gloria May, aided in fighting the fire. A second good Samaritan vessel, Kay Ann, transferred the five passengers to the U.S. Coast Guard Station Pascagoula response boat.

The vessel eventually sank. There were no reported injuries.

“This vessel was very prepared,” says USCG Captain Joseph Snowden. “Not only were they able to escape to a life raft, but they were able to issue a mayday broadcast and follow it up with an automated distress call that included a GPS position, allowing us to proceed directly to their precise location.”

Report by USCgNEwS.CoM; photo courtesy of USCG

Sailboat Struggles to Stay Afloat 4 Cleveland, Ohio — July 28 U.S. Coast Guard Station Niagara received a distress call from a 30-foot sailboat in Lake Ontario that was fighting to stay afloat in 8-foot waves and winds up to 25 mph. The vessel’s sail was torn and the three passengers aboard were unable to make their way 3 miles northwest of the Niagara River entrance.

A recue boat crew arrived on scene and towed the sailboat to a nearby yacht club. “The importance of having a reliable means of communication can’t be stressed enough,” says Petty Officer 1st Class Craig Case, USCG Station Niagara executive officer. “By taking along a marine radio with GPS capabilities, these boaters helped us to help them.”

Report by USCgNEwS.CoM; photo courtesy of USCG

good Samaritan Rescues Four Cleveland, Ohio — August 1 Eight miles from Presque Isle, Pennsylvania, a boat with four adult passengers began sinking. A search and rescue coordinator from U.S. Coast Guard Sector Buffalo, New York responded to a mayday call from the 25-foot pleasure craft, reporting flooding in the boat.

A nearby fisherman responded within 10 minutes of the mayday call and pulled all four passengers out of the water.

USCG arrived on scene about 5 minutes later and took the passengers to shore.

“We always encourage boaters to assist each other if possible, but only if they feel safe in doing so,” says Petty Officer 2nd Class Timothy O’Brien. “In this case, the quick response saved four peoples’ lives.”

The boat sank shortly afterwards. All passengers were unharmed.

Report by wKyC.CoM

ask the expert | by Elizabeth Altick

Plot Your Course Shane Coloney explains how boaters can create and share the most up-to-the-minute navigation charts.

LB: For navigation, many boaters trust digital maps on portable media cards, but they have limitations. What are they?

Coloney: Both digital and paper charts are only as good as the data on which they are based. Unfortunately, either may be based on data from surveys done as long as 40 or 50 years ago. Lacking detail and updated only with computer-estimated contour lines, these charts can miss, or obscure, the key bottom changes that most interest anglers and boaters. In addition, many important waterways remain unmapped. It’s essential that maps be as up-to-date as possible, because, for instance, one good storm can completely shift the bottom structure, and even normal tides and currents can shift areas seasonally, creating hazards for safe navigation.

CONTACT Shane Coloney Product Manager, Content & Cartography Lowrance/Simrad/B&G 4500 S. 129th East Ave. Suite 200 Tulsa, OK 74134

LB: What is Insight Genesis?

Coloney: Insight Genesis is a cloud-based service that allows customers to upload their sonar logs. These raw recordings are then automatically converted to bathymetric charts with depth contours for the customer. The basic service is provided for free, giving boaters access to the most accurate, up-to-date information possible. Insight Genesis allows for dramatic, near-real-time improvement of charting on any body of water, easily exceeding the abilities of official hydrographic offices to update surveys.

LoWranCe.CoM SIMraD-YaCHtInG.CoM BanDG.CoM

LB: What is the Social Map aspect of Insight Genesis?

Coloney: Insight Genesis Social Map is an online database of coastal and inland maps generated and shared by fishing, cruising and sailing enthusiasts. Social Map allows you to easily summon and use detailed contour maps of waters close to home and around the globe. Social Map harnesses the power of community in order to improve maps. Users upload their sonar logs to Insight Genesis, and by leaving them designated as “public” data, they allow their data to be combined with the data submitted by thousands of other customers. The combined maps are then accessible by all Insight Genesis users.

LB: Does a boater need advanced computer skills to use Insight Genesis?

Coloney: No. Insight Genesis was designed from the outset to be accessible by the general boating community; no need to spend hours trying to understand a new computer program. It’s so simple, you don’t even need an instruction manual (although we do provide one online). You simply open a webpage on your browser, choose the sonar log or logs that you want to upload, and click the checkbox. Your

Elizabeth Altick specializes in recreational marine, cultural and humaninterest subjects. She was formerly executive editor of a recreational boating magazine.

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data is automatically uploaded to the cloud to be converted to a bathymetric map. We do all the heavy lifting for you.

Bottom line: If you’ve used a smartphone or shared a photo through social media, you can easily use Insight Genesis.

LB: What sonar equipment is needed to operate Insight Genesis?

Coloney: Any sonar equipment currently supported by Lowrance, Simrad and B&G will be compatible, as are most systems manufactured within the last 8 to 10 years. If the sonar log is saved in a .slg or .sl2 file format, you are good to go!

LB: What’s the difference between a free Insight Genesis account and the premium subscription?

Coloney: With the premium subscription, you have the ability keep individual trips private when uploading. This is a unique feature of our product versus others, which are typically either all public or all private. The premium subscription is really the best of both worlds and is a huge plus for anglers who may want to keep private a favorite fishing location. Premium subscribers also get access to advanced tools, such as vegetation density and bottom composition overlays, as well as integrated weather data from the time of the recording.

LB: How has Insight Genesis been received by boaters?

Coloney: We are attracting an extremely active group of people who are passionate about boating safety and having fun on the water. Our community membership is skyrocketing, and our data uploads (measured in acres submitted) have been increasing by 50 percent month over month. LB

photos courtesy of navico

by Kate Bush | GEARING UP

Hobie Tequila Sunrise Bags Combining its trademark “H” logo and the iconic Tequila Sunrise pattern, Hobie’s new Tequila Sunrise Collection includes a wine bag, duffle, beach tote, sailor sling bag and versatile roll bag — all you’ll need for a top-notch cruising adventure! The beach tote easily stores your sailing must-haves, while the wine bag is a fun way to bring that Merlot to a party. Water-resistant, handcrafted in the U.S.A. and made from recycled sails collected from around the globe. $39 TO $199 at HOBIE.COM

GREAT GEAR Must-have goodies and gadgets for every boater

MagicEzy Hairline Fix Notice a hairline or stress crack? Then look to MagicEzy’s Hairline Fix for a quick solution. With one simple application, fix gelcoat crazing and hairline cracks at both cosmetic and structural levels. Say goodbye to sanding and prep work; Hairline Fix gets deep into cracks to seal and bond, and it’s virtually invisible. Available in 11 colors and suitable for interior and exterior use. $24.99 FOR 0.45 FL. Oz. at MAGICEzY.COM

ACR Electronics Firefly Pro Series Rescue Strobe Lights Engineered for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and United States Coast Guard (USCG) requirements, the Firefly Pro lasts more than 56 hours, and the Firefly Pro Waterbug has water sensors that activate once they contact water. Both models feature a 360-degree beam of light, visibility of more than 3.5 miles and are compact enough to fit inside a life jacket or pocket. $45 TO $65 at ACRARTEX.COM

West Marine VHF160 Handheld Radio The VHF160 is a floatable VHF handheld radio with outstanding communications functionality and a waterproof rating of IPX8, meaning it can be continuously immersed in water. Features include: Emergency strobe; all marine VHF channels; NOAA emergency weather alert; dual-, triple- and quad-watch plus scanning; memory channel scan; and instant access to Channel 16 or Channel 9. $159.99 at WESTMARINE.COM

Marinco Charge Pro Portable Battery Chargers This waterproof, shocktested, multi-stage charger from Marinco is one of the most durable and versatile on the market. Offering 1.1 amps and an output voltage of 6/12-volt DC, it’s designed specifically for marine environments.

A neat feature is SenseSend technology, which learns and remembers each battery and sends the correct charge. $54.99 at DEFENDER.COM

Costa 580P Mirror Lens Protect your eyes in style with Costa’s new 580P mirror lens, available in a super lightweight, impact-resistant polycarbonate material. The lenses block yellow light from entering the eye and provide an unmatched level of polarization and color enhancement. Need prescription lenses?

Not a problem! Costa offers its mirrored lenses with Trivex plastic prescriptions. Available in blue mirror on a gray base or green and silver mirror on a copper base. All lenses come in 14 of Costa’s performance sunglass styles. $189 at COSTADELMAR.COM

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boat spotlight | by Capt. Tom Serio

Boston Whaler 345 conquest B

Seeing is believing.

oston Whaler has created a hierarchy of vessels that can fill a boater’s lifelong needs. With center console, bow rider, cabin cruiser and open style options from 11 to 42 feet, there’s no need to leave the Boston Whaler line.

And now there’s yet another reason to stay: The Boston Whaler 345 Conquest, the largest model in the Conquest line.

The Boston Whaler fishing pedigree lives true in the 345.

A fully bolstered walk-around cockpit makes fish-fighting effortless. Rod holders, tackle/bait storage, pull-out prep surface with hinged cutting board, and electric grill (yes, it’s in a drawer!) are standard. A starboard wetbar houses the fridge-freezer, sink with hot/cold faucet and insulated cooler.

For cruising or spending the weekend on the hook, the cabin amenities are sure to please. Forward is the six-person dinette with electric hi-lo table that converts to a queen-size berth, an option known as the Dynamic Cabin System, for which Boston Whaler took home an NMMA Innovation Award. To port is the galley with coffee maker, microwave, hot/cold sink, and 12/120-volt fridge/freezer. Hardwood cabin sole, 26-inch flat screen HDTV, portholes, Fusion stereo system, LED lighting, and wood grain finish increase the comfort and esthetics levels.

bostonwhaler.com

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Specifications LOA: 35'11" Beam: 11'8" Draft: 1'10" Weight (dry w/o engine): 14,200 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 400 gals.

Water Capacity: 45 gals.

Base Power: 250 CXL L6 DTS Triple Mercury Verados Base Price: $443,037

Across is the starboard settee that converts to a double berth.

There’s also a mid-berth under the deck with privacy curtain.

An enclosed head boasts pull-out showerhead, VacuFlush toilet (with overboard/dockside pump-out) and skylight.

Boston Whaler didn’t compromise on the social value of boating, either. The entire helm deck is covered with a powder-coated integrated hardtop, with three forward tempered windshield panels and open side widow panels with side and aft curtains for climate control.

With the helm to starboard, the 345 Conquest has room to port for an aft-facing seat, table and forward-facing twin bench seat that flips and converts to aft seating while watching the lines.

A drop-in filler cushion transforms the area to a full lounge.

“The 345 Conquest provides reliable performance, tremendous fishing capability, ergonomic comfort, and the right complement of features — without hassles or headaches,” says Boston Whaler vice president of sales/ marketing/customer service Jeff Vaughn. LB

by Capt. Tom Serio | boat spotlight

Specifications LOA: 21'7" Beam: 8'6" Tube Diameter: 25" Weight: 1,810 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 25 gals.

Person Capacity: 10 Max Power: 135 hp Base Price: $33,429 w/Mercury 115 ELPT FourStroke

F

or 2015, Larson Boat Group is expanding its line of Larson Escape pontoons with the RT series. Targeted for the mid-market segment, the features and options offered on the RTs will definitely make you think “high end.” Case in point, the Larson Escape RT 2200.

With twin or triple tubes, exterior color options and sleek styling, the RT 2200 will look and feel like a premium ride.

For cruising, there’s plenty of seating to accommodate everyone. A U-shaped settee in the bow is split for the forward gate, which also allows for wheelchair access (as does the side gate). The starboard seat backs up against the helm, creating a forward-facing lounge. Colored vinyl accent bands on the seat backs add highlights and pizzazz. An aft L-shaped settee, pop-up changing station and under-seat hinged storage tubs boast amazing functionality.

The exterior good looks are the result of Larson’s smooth

Larson escape rt 2200 outer fence, fiberglass forward corners and curved safety fencing, giving the RT 2200 a distinctive appeal.

The helm has room for a flat screen display nestled between the gauges for easy sight. A large recliner/slider captain’s chair with self-leveling arms is standard.

If wetting a line is your game, Larson offers a full-fish configuration. An integrated, 30-gallon aerated livewell, rod holders, built-in shelves for tackle boxes, and utility rail for filet knives and pliers are included in the molded fiberglass fishing command center. Foldable fishing chairs and 180-degree fishing access make comfort a given. Lockable rod holders and lockers, as well as safety fencing, keep it all secure. Available options include trolling motor and battery.

“With the success and innovation of our Larson FX series of freshwater fishing boats, we could not just do the drag fish/ cruise or full-fish configurations with our RT series,” says Larson Boat Group director of engineering Ron Sahr. “The customer that wants a pontoon ready to fish will immediately notice our central fish command center and safety fence.”

Strap an outboard from Mercury, Yamaha, Suzuki, Evinrude or Honda up to 135 hp on the back of an RT 2200, and escape on your own adventure. LB

october 2014

Escape on your own adventure.

larsonescape.com

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boat spotlight | by Capt. Tom Serio

riviera 565 SUV F

Australian utility made luxurious.

rom our friends down under, who know a little something about building boats, comes the Riviera 565 SUV. Taking on any vast ocean or great lake, this Australian-born and -bred utilitarian yacht has it all.

Its low profile is accented by the sleek hardtop (with twin sunroofs) and swept-back forward and side windows.

Extending the hardtop cockpit overhang is a built-in awning, adding protection from the elements.

The cockpit is multi-tiered, with plenty of under-deck storage and fish-keeping boxes. Opt for the barbeque station in the transom, live bait tank or hydraulic swim platform for a touch of added convenience.

Up a few steps is the cushioned mezzanine seating that also leads to the salon. A flip-up aft window complements the sliding aft door, blending inside and out.

With the U-shaped galley aft, prepping meals and feeding family and guests is centralized. Microwave oven, four-burner cooktop, fridge/freezer drawers, dishwasher, Corian counters, and other appliances fill the gourmet’s needs. Forward to port is a large, L-shaped dining area, of which the table lowers to become a cushioned lounge.

The port-side helm is forward, with a dash large enough for three nav screens. Twin helm chairs keep guests close to the action, as do the twin starboard-side captain chairs.

They all swivel to join the conversation in the salon.

riviera.com.au

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Specifications LOA: 60'9" Beam: 16'10" Draft: 4'3" Weight (dry): 53,400 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 925 gals.

Water Capacity: 198 gals.

Power: T-Volvo Penta IPS950 725 hp Base Price: Contact dealer

Accommodations below include a full-beam master midship with en-suite head and king berth, large hull windows and walk-in closet. A VIP is forward with center berth or v-bunk setup, and a guest stateroom is to starboard.

Interior designs will feature satin finish oak timber (or opt for cherry or other woods).

Riviera delivers power and handling via Volvo Penta IPS drives, producing cruising speeds of approximately 25 knots and topping out at a peppy 32 knots.

“The new 565 is a culmination of more than 34 years of boatbuilding design, experience and extensive owner feedback from around the world,” says Chris McCafferty, Riviera’s international sales director.

Whether you’re cruising the oceans or the lakes, the Riviera 565 SUV has what you need. Escape from your island, or plot a course to it. LB

by Capt. Tom Serio | boat spotlight

Specifications LOA: 47'6" Beam: 15'4" Draft: 3'9" Weight (dry): 40,000 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 525 gals.

Water Capacity: 160 gals.

Power: T-Cummins QSC 8.3 550 hp diesels Price (w/options): $1,070,430

D

on’t let the down-easter styling of the Sabre 48 Salon Express fool you. Sure, she can run at a leisurely pace, showing off her up-turned bow, fully enclosed house and generous aft seating fit for a sunset soiree or extended cruise. But take a peek at the performance numbers, and you’re likely to see her in a whole new light.

With twin Cummins QSC 8.3 HO diesel engines coupled to Zeus 3800 Pod Drives, the Sabre 48 jumps from a coastal cruiser to a let’s-get-there speed boat, clocking in at 34 knots at wide open throttle and making all of those 550 horses per block work double duty. Hold onto your hats!

Sabre merged this “get up and get home” technology with ingenuity and fine craftsmanship throughout. The 48 Salon Express has a smart layout. Cockpit seating includes an L-shaped settee and table. A bulkhead bench seat faces aft, perfect for sightseeing or al fresco dining.

Through the beefy aft bi-fold door, the salon has seating on both sides (plus a mate’s lounge forward opposite the helm),

Sabre 48 Salon express with ample walkway space to transit forward. There’s also a door next to the helm for convenient side access. To top it off, a Stidd helm seat complements the Stazo wood steering wheel.

What’s nice is that the salon is the salon, and the galley is down. No need to be staring at a fridge while relaxing on the couch. Out of sight doesn’t mean out of mind, however. The Sabre design team has fitted the galley with a convection microwave, two-burner cooktop, fridge with freezer, stainless sink/faucet, and solid countertop.

The yacht’s two lower staterooms are equally well appointed. Across is the master with queen island berth, TV, en-suite head with vessel sink, shower stall, and plenty of storage. Forward is the VIP stateroom, also with queen berth, TV and en-suite head.

But wait, as they say, there’s more! “Our Sabre 48 includes the additional quarters below deck with the washer and dryer option, which highlights Sabre’s industry-leading design and production,” says Connie Carlson, general manager and partner of Beacon Marine (formerly Cal Marine) in Sister Bay, Wisconsin. “Some owners use it as a crew quarters, while many have outfitted it as a separate sleeping area for children or grandchildren.” LB

october 2014

A down-easter with oh-so much more to offer.

sabreyachts.com

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boat test

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photos courtesy of riviera

Belize 54 Sedan

Australian luxury packed with amenities.

by Capt. Tom Serio october 2014

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W

hen I saw the word “Belize” in my e-mail inbox, I thought Lakeland Boating was sending me to a place of warm winds, exotic views and comfortable surroundings. A dream trip to an even dreamier locale. To my initial dismay — immediately followed by sheer excitement, I must confess — I discovered I wasn’t going to Central America, but rather on a sea trial of Belize Motoryachts’ new 54 Sedan.

From the moment you step aboard and look around, it’s evident that the 54 Sedan is a “thinking man’s” boat. That is, there are so many cool features and ideas incorporated into the everyday function of this yacht that you know it had to be a seasoned team of boaters/ builders who dreamt it up.

From Down Under

Belize Motoryachts hails from Australia, a part of the Riviera Yachts business. Started by the former CEO of Riviera Yachts, Wesley Moxey, after he left Riviera in 2008, Belize was formed in 2011. Due to a change in ownership, Moxey was invited to return to Riviera as CEO in 2012, bringing along the Belize brand as part of the deal.

Understand that Moxey originally started with Riviera in 1982 as a shipwright and worked his way up through the production and management ranks to eventually oversee the whole company.

If looks are everything, then the Belize 54 Sedan has you at first glance. Its low, sleek style is accentuated by the angular-arched side windows and swept-back, three-panel windshield. With a brow-like overhang forward, the hardtop’s design fits into the overall appearance. Hull side windows/portholes filter ample amounts of light below deck, and the plumb bow and hard chines deliver wave-piercing performance.

Innovation Abounds

Innovations surround you the moment you board the Belize 54. The teak swim platform actually wraps around the corners of the hull, making it look like part of the yacht and not merely a bolt-on. The center section submerges as a beach or swim-in access.

Noticeable on the teak aft deck is the awning. Supported by a fixed, polished stainless steel frame extending aft from the hardtop overhang, it’s not retractable, and it may take a moment to realize that it’s not a structural part of the yacht, either. It’s a neat option, as it protects from sun and rain and allows for coverage without having the hardtop extended, which would somewhat spoil the yacht’s lovely lines. White LED aft-deck lights and camera can be mounted on the back rail.

Creativeness continues with the dual access walk-throughs from the platform and large aft bench seat with teak hi-lo table. The table is mounted on an angled pedestal, allowing it to move closer to the seat when raised.

I like when things are behind closed doors, but also within easy reach. Cases in point: The recessed, custom vertical fender stowage in the aft covered gunwale lockers, port-side joystick controls (great for backing into a slip), port-side compartment with battery switches, breakers,

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Belize 54 Sedan and a mounted manual bilge pump (it’s always preferable when battery switches are located outside the engine room).

There’s a port corner bar with two swing-out bar stools and a wet bar unit with Vitro Frigo fridge/freezer draws to starboard.

An electric barbeque station with sink is built into the transom unit just above the garage. Access is from the swim platform, which also keeps the hot grill away from curious kids.

Socializing is a large part of yachting, and the folks at Belize have nicely accommodated all of your plans to entertain guests. The large, center salon door slides to starboard and the port aft window/frame flips up with a gas-assisted piston, blending the salon/cockpit areas into one.

With the galley up, situated along the port side of the salon, it’s easy to feed and clean from any point onboard. Not lacking in counter space or appliances, the galley features a Miele microwave convection oven, Schott Ceran four-burner cooktop, stainless steel sink with Grohe Euro faucet, and two Vitro Frigo refrigerator drawers. Corner cabinet drawers are custom fitted for all china, cups, plates and silverware.

Salon seating consists of a plush, L-shaped settee with a center island fold-out table and drawer storage complemented by teak flooring.

See the Light

Well thought out is the management of ambient light. Two large skylights with individual shades in the salon ceiling flood the interior with sunlight or allow one to view the stars from the comfort of the large salon settees. Over the helm station is a large, retractable sunroof with four strip skylight panels, intended to help stream light to the lower level. With the aforementioned windshield and side windows, there’s no loss for taking in the great outdoors while comfortably seated indoors.

As a hands-on sea trial, I was able to see and feel how the 54 Sedan responded to joystick instructions, as well as running the range of speeds. Around the docks, even in a bucking current, the 54 Sedan moved effortlessly and where she was directed. Intuitively you would look for the joystick on the right side of the helm. Nay-nay in this case. It’s mounted to

Standard Equipment Onan EQD 13.5 kva generator; sun pad on foredeck; anchor and Muir windlass; BEP CZone monitoring system; four Rule bilge pumps; water heater; AC/Reverse Cycle heat system; teak decking; Bose stereo; tender garage for 3-meter dinghy; salon LCD TV; windscreen cover.

the left, which actually felt rather comfortable and allows for peering out the port-side window while docking.

Coupling the Cummins 600-hp engines with Zeus Pod Drives (complete with counter-rotating propellers) returns a respectable level of handling, maneuverability and speed.

In a 2- to 3-foot open sea, the windshield stayed dry as we cruised along at a hair over 15 knots, burning almost 28 gallons. At wide open throttle, she topped out at just above 28 knots — plenty of get up and go to get through the slop.

Helm Happenings

Credit is due to those who designed the Belize 54 helm station. The dash has a center steering wheel, VesselView monitor and twin gauges in a leather-wrapped pod. Splitting the console (upper section) not only creates two separate pods for 15-inch chartplotter displays and other electronics, but it also adds to the visibility. As the split is several inches wide, it offers a clear line of sight to the foredeck and bow.

Helm seating is unique, not only a result of the extra-wide bolstered Treben Italian leather captain’s seat with armrests, but there’s also a double-wide companion seat to starboard and a seat across from that one, positioned next to the helm.

It’s a nice setup for spouse/kids to be near the captain, or for guests who want to take in the incredible views.

Contours are molded into the dash where the illuminated push buttons for the roof, navigation lights, wipers, and trim dot the display. Nice touch!

As elegantly decorated as the upper level of the 54 Sedan is, the lower level boasts three luxurious staterooms. A mid-ship master has a queen berth, night stands, port lounge, 24-inch LCD TV, and cedar-lined closet. With the engine room aft, the master head is to starboard with a basin sink, Tecma Silence toilet and shower stall with a teak and holly bench seat.

A VIP stateroom in the forepeak features a double island berth, cedar-lined closets, and overhead hatch, while the third stateroom offers double bunks, perfect for the kids.

A lot of thought went into creating the Belize 54 Sedan. Think about bringing home one of your very own. LB

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Optional Equipment Painted hull; washer/ dryer; dishwasher; electric blinds in master suite; office layout in third stateroom; salon ottoman; cockpit awning; window/ upholstery/table covers.

Specifications LOA: 54'1" Beam: 16'6" Draft: 3'6" Weight (dry): 49,500 lbs.

Fuel Cap: 634 gals.

Water Cap: 184 gals.

Power: T-Cummins QSC 600 hp w/Zeus Pod Drives Base Price: $1,667,308 belizemotoryachts.com.au

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The Spice of

When it comes to pontoon boats, variety is the name of the game.

Today’s pontoons have it in spades, with hundreds of models to choose from no matter your boating tastes and budget. By Gary Reich 34

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I

t wasn’t so long ago when many boaters turned their noses up at the idea of owning a pontoon boat. Heck, until recently, I felt the very same way. But take a close look at what modern pontoon boats offer in the way of performance, comfort, ease of use, and no-muss, no-fuss boating, and you’ll see why they are enjoying a renaissance. In fact, pontoon boats are currently one of the fastest-growing segments in boating.

You probably have your own preconceived notions about pontoon boats and the folks who own them. Maybe you see them more as “redneck party barges” used for bow hunting invasive Asian carp than as a serious boating platform. But if you boat on pretty much any body of water with a name preceded by the word “lake,” or followed by the word “river,” you’d be hard-pressed to find a better option than a pontoon.

Sure, pontoon boats have limitations. They’re not especially great at open-water voyages in rough weather, and no, you won’t find adequate

all photos courtesy of individual manufacturers

The Premier Grand Entertainer not only has a full stand-up bar and galley area, it also can be tipped with twin 300-hp Evinrude E-TEC G2 outboards. Hold on to your beverages!

Premier Marine

Life

facilities on board for sleeping and overnight cruising. Most don’t even have heads aboard (though some do). Consider the size of the lakes, rivers and backwaters where most pontoon owners do their boating, however, and you’ll see why those downsides really don’t matter.

One thing prospective pontoon buyers worry about is performance. That’s because pontoons of the past were often slow and lacked maneuverability.

That notion is ancient history. Modern pontoons can jet up to speeds of more than 60 mph and turn on dime, thanks to highly engineered tube designs and performance systems. Some pontoons can even be equipped with joystick outboard controls and dynamic positioning.

Need some help getting started? Read on to get the skinny on nine popular pontoon boat brands that should all be atop your shopping list as you start looking. You’ll find that there’s a model out there to fit just about everyone’s budget and lifestyle.

If you’re looking for a pontoon boat packed with innovative features and top-quality construction, it’s hard to go wrong with Premier.

Based in Wyoming, Minnesota, the company offers a lineup of pontoon boats ranging from to 18 to 31 feet in length.

Whether it’s luxury or utility, there’s probably a pontoon you’ll fancy in Premier’s stable.

Among those aforementioned innovative features is Premier’s PTX system. By adding a center tube with a flat running surface and beveled outer edges and outboard tubes with lifting strakes, a PTX-equipped pontoon turns and maneuvers at speed much like a V-bottom fiberglass boat does. That means PTX-equipped boats turn corners at speed with ease and plane quickly. Also worth checking out is Premier’s Beacon System, which integrates GPS, engine stats, stereo and other functions into one touch screen display.

Another thing to love about Premier is the variety in its model line. If you’re looking for the ultimate pontoon party platform, the Sky Dek series is hard to beat. At 31 feet, 5 inches overall, it’s not only the biggest boat in Premier’s lineup (and among the longest of all pontoons), but it’s also the tallest, sporting a second level lounge with water slide. If launching yourself off a slide isn’t your thing, have a look at Premier’s Sunsation line, which has models ranging from 16 to 24 feet, with 11 different floor plans. It’s the most expansive of Premier’s model range.

Interested in angling? The Cast-A-Way is all about an open platform for fishing with comfortable, single-chair seating instead of expansive lounges. Wanna go fast? Tip a Premier 290 Grande View with twin, 300-hp E-TEC Evinrude outboards and fly across the lake at 50-plus mph.

Premier’s boats also are rugged, which means you’ll get a 5-year, bow-to-stern warranty with your pontoon. In addition, the limited lifetime warranty covers decks, rotocast furniture frames, Bimini top frames and brackets, and welds on tubes, rails, and gates. There’s a 5-year limited warranty on carpet, plus a 7-year limited warranty on Durasoft 7 vinyl.

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Bennington

Avalon’s Ambassador Series is all about entertaining and luxury.

Pictured here is the 27-foot 2785 Entertainer, which features sumptuous lounge seating, a counter-height bar and additional relaxation spots near the stern. Happy hour, anyone?

Founded in 1972, Avalon Pontoon Boats is based in Alma, Michigan and produces 25 different models ranging from 14 to 27 feet in length, with base prices starting around $12,000 to just under $80,000, depending on options and equipment.

This manufacturer’s expansive lineup is broken into four categories: Premium, Top-End, Midrange and Affordable.

You can either fish from the budget-minded 14-foot Bow Fish, or layer yourself in luxury with the Ambassador Sandbar, which has a whopping 15-person capacity. I like the Catalina Entertainer, which is a great mid-range offering with lots of different layout options. Sun worshippers and those who love napping should check out the 27-foot Paradise Quad lounge, which, as the name suggests, comes with four relaxing chaise lounges — two on the bow, and two on the stern.

Avalon’s performance system is called Waveglider. This system not only adds a center pontoon, but also includes two full-length, extruded lifting fins on all three tubes. This enhances planing speed, increases planing height, improves maneuverability, and provides a smooth, clean ride. There also are rough water and express center tube packages, depending on pontoon model, length and equipment.

Avalon prides itself on the fact that its pontoons are built to last. Whether it’s the heavy-duty crossbeam supports and pressure treated ¾-inch decks, or the all-aluminum seat frames and kick panels, there’s plenty to like about Avalon’s build quality. In fact, Avalon is so confident in its pontoon and deck construction techniques that it offers a 5-year, bow-to-stern warranty, plus a limited lifetime warranty on the flooring, pontoon welds and seat frames.

Avalon

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Elkhart, Indiana, is where Bennington pontoon boats are born, and this manufacturer has a reputation for building some of the highest quality ’toons out there. A relative newcomer to the pontoon scene, the company was founded in 1997. But don’t let that make you think of inexperience; nothing could be farther from the truth.

With 28 models spanning five categories and literally hundreds of different deck plans and layouts, Bennington has one of the most diverse pontoon lineups on the market. The Q and R series are Bennington’s luxury lines, with models ranging from 21 to 28 feet in length. Next up are its G and S series boats, with budget and mid-range models from 17 to 25 feet.

One of my favorite models is the 2575 QCW I/O Mahogany Edition, which has a full-length mahogany deck enclosure instead of the usual aluminum fencing. Another favorite that I’ve run is the 18 SL, which is nicely appointed and starts at only $17,499. Like to ski? Try a 2575 QCW with a watersports tower and beefed-up engine package and pull your friends and family around the lake all day long.

Bennington offers three different tube performance systems, but it’s the company’s exclusive center elliptical tube design that makes it all go. The top-end Elliptical Sport Package adds a center elliptical tube with lifting strakes and under-deck wave shield, and outer tubes with performance foils. The Sport Performance System and Express Tube Package do not have the elliptical tubes, but offer varying combinations of lifting strakes and other underwater tube enhancements. Like with other builders, these tube packages provide performance and maneuverability.

The company is particularly proud of the rugged construction techniques it employs on each and every one of its boats. Most notable, perhaps, are the rugged cross channels and through-bolt deck fasteners it uses to construct its stiff, rigid deck structures. Four-sided welds on support structures and heavy-duty pontoon brackets also ensure a boat that doesn’t twist and bend as it’s put through its paces. Each Bennington comes with a 7-year, bow-to-stern warranty and a limited lifetime warranty on major structures.

Bennington’s 25-foot 2575 QCW I/O Mahogany edition has the look of a classic mahogany powerboat, but with modern express boat design cues. Some pontoon manufacturers offer models without the aluminum deck fencing to appeal to buyers who don’t care for the traditional pontoon boat look.

Harris FloteBote

Harris FloteBote is a relative granddaddy among pontoon boat manufacturers, having been in the business for 55 years. Situated in Fort Wayne, Indiana, this builder manufactures 20 different models among six different product lines in its modern factory.

Particularly noteworthy is the way Harris FloteBote assembles and waterproofs the decks of its boats, as well as the steps it takes in mounting those decks to the tubes.

Decks are made of ¾-inch pressure-treated, tongue-andgroove plywood that is mounted to sturdy C- and Z-shaped aluminum cross members at 4- to 10-inch spacing. The deck even undergoes a four-step waterproofing process. All Harris FloteBote pontoons come with a limited lifetime warranty on the entire structure, including pontoon tubes, cross members, decking, motor mount and fence rail. The rest of the boat is covered by a 5-year, bow-to-stern warranty.

Harris FloteBotes come in six different lines: Crowne, Royal, Grand Mariner, Solstice, Sunliner, and Cruiser, in descending order price-wise. If you’re looking for one of the most lavishly equipped pontoon boats out there, consider the Crowne 250. While this already high-end boat starts out at around $60,000, add twin 300-hp Mercury Verados, joystick controls, dynamic positioning system, and just about every other option on the list, and you’re pushing about $180,000. And you’re not going to strap those two monster engines to a pontoon boat without a performance tube system. Harris FloteBote’s XTR (Extreme Turning Radius) package enhances performance by adding a lowered center tube, lifting strakes and full aluminum skin kit.

But that doesn’t mean buying a Harris FloteBote has to be pricey. Take the Solstice 240, for example. At 24 feet overall and with a nice list of standard features, this ’toon starts at only $35,340 with a 60-hp Mercury FourStroke outboard.

Small lake, small family, small budget? The Cruiser 160 is 16 feet long and with a 9.9-hp Mercury FourStroke outboard, it’s perfect for leisurely exploration trips or happy hour cruises.

How does $14,370 sound?

Harris FloteBote’s Crowne 250 is the most luxurious boat in the builder’s lineup. While the company has a wide range of affordable and mid-range pontoons to choose from, the Crowne 250 can be outfitted as the ultimate pontoon boat with twin outboards, joystick steering, dynamic positioning and more.

Apex knows that smaller and simpler can make for a better boating experience, so the company concentrates on what it calls “compact” pontoons that range in size from 14 to around 22 feet.

Apex Marine

St. Louis, Missouri, is home base for Apex Marine, a builder of compact pontoon boats ranging from 14 to around 22 feet.

Founded as Mellinger Boats, the company manufactured its first pontoon — a compact 8-footer called the Gillgetter — in 1990.

The company was purchased in 2003 by Apex Marine, which continues to build a wide range of compact pontoon boats.

The first question most folks ask about Apex is, “Why compact pontoons?” The answer is pretty much “simple is better.” Besides being easier to handle, trailer and store, compact pontoons are sometimes a real solution to lakes that have horsepower and electric motor-only restrictions. Additionally, the smaller platform is great for first-time buyers and smaller families.

Don’t let the smaller footprint of Apex’s pontoons fool you, though. Tubes are constructed of high-grade, 0.80inch aluminum and have full-length keels, splashguards, a modified porpoise nose cone, and integral mooring eyes.

Decks are constructed using ¾-inch, pressure-treated plywood, while framing and supports use 6036 T6 aircraftgrade aluminum. Waterproof Deutsch-style electrical connections and full-length conduits for wire runs mean you’ll enjoy years of trouble-free electrical service. Pontoon hulls and decks are covered by a limited lifetime warranty.

The Qwest LS is Apex’s signature pontoon flagship, and I have to admit I’m a big fan of the 822 Splash Pad model, which has a small bar and three bar stools on the stern, two large lounges and a pop-in table forward, and an L-shaped lounge amidships.

This boat definitely has happy hour in mind. But my favorite Apex model is its Paddle Qwest pontoon. Pushed along by human pedal-power and a large, aluminum paddlewheel at the stern, I first saw this boat at this year’s Miami International Boat Show, and it was getting a lot of attention. You can even add battery and solar power, which gives you 3 to 5 hours of run time at around 3 mph, if you don’t feel like exercising. Supplement it with pedal power and you can go around the lake all day long.

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Larson Escape

Godfrey introduced the first-ever, all-aluminum pontoon boat, a Sanpan, at the 1958 World’s Fair in Chicago. Pictured here is the company’s 24-foot, 3-inch Sanpan SP 2200 SLR model.

Another longtime player in the pontoon market is Godfrey, which introduced its Sanpan model — the first ever all-aluminum pontoon boat — at the 1958 World’s Fair in Chicago, Illinois. This Elkhart, Indiana-based manufacturer has a diverse lineup of innovative pontoons ranging from 18 to just under 27 feet.

Godfrey builds three different models of pontoon boats (Sanpan, Aqua Patio and Sweetwater) with 54 different floor plans and endless customization options. Modern construction and building techniques produce a solid, capable pontoon, which is what you’d expect from a company with 56 years in the business. Each model comes with a 5-year, bow-to-stern warranty and a limited lifetime warranty on structure and deck panels. Even the upholstery, carpet, furniture and canopy fabrics have a 5-year warranty.

The Sanpan range makes up Godfrey’s luxury pontoon lineup, and my favorite model, by far, is the lounge-happy 2500 SLR. Maybe it’s the La-Z-Boy-style amidships lounge chair or the sumptuous, leather-clad, L-shaped lounger forward that make this boat so comfortable, but if relaxing is in your game plan, this is a great place to start. Put a 150-hp outboard on the stern, opt for Godfrey’s Triple Tube performance package, and you’ll get where you’re going fast, too. The performance packages add tube enhancements to improve speed, maneuverability and overall handling.

If you’re looking for a budget-minded pontoon, the Sweetwater 186 C is an 18-footer that starts under the $20,000 mark, but still comes with loads of features, such as a Bimini top, Sony stereo, quality vinyl upholstery and expansive seating. I also like Godfrey’s Aqua Patio lineup.

More specifically, I’m a fan of the 250 WB model, which can be equipped with an aft entertaining area that includes grill, captain’s chairs and tons of counterpace for snacking while underway.

Godfrey

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You’ve probably heard of Larson Boats (the company has more than 100 years of boatbuilding experience under its belt), but what you may not know is that the company also builds a line of well-equipped pontoon boats ranging from 21 to 25 feet in length and in double- and triple-tube configurations. And its lineup is growing: Larson will add six pontoon models in the 2015 model year. Its new Heritage series pontoons will range from 20 to 24 feet in length.

Perhaps what I like best about Larson’s pontoons is that they don’t follow traditional pontoon design lines. Instead of the usual aluminum fencing with colored back panels, each Escape has a molded fiberglass enclosure that gives it more of a sleek, express boat look. Additionally, interior furnishings, consoles and moldings look much like what you’d find on a traditional fiberglass powerboat.

The base Escape 21 starts out at just over $36,000 in the twin-tube configuration with the standard Evinrude 40-hp outboard. I like Yamaha’s lightweight, fuel-efficient, and quiet F115 four-stroke outboard engine for this boat, which tips the base price up to around $42,000. Add in some expanded seating options, electronics and table configurations, and the Escape 21 gets closer to the $50,000 mark. While that may seem expensive, keep in mind that with a Larson you get a lot of pontoon for your money, with loads of standard features.

And some of the optional features that drive those prices are incredibly clever. One I really like is a sort of coffee table in the bow that elegantly slides open to expose a cooler. Another option is for a drop-leaf table with a flat screen television that rises out of the top of it. I could go on forever — another one is an option for a counter-set grill table with mini-fridge and drop-leaf table. If comfortable and sleek are what you’re looking for, a Larson pontoon is a great place to start.

We’d be surprised if you hadn’t heard of the Larson name, but bet you didn’t know the company made pontoon boats, too. Larson pontoons do away with the typical pontoon metal fencing, which gives them a sleek, express boat look.

Sylvan Marine

One of the oldest pontoon boat names in the business, Sylvan Marine, was founded in 1940 near Sylvan Lake in Wolcottville, Illinois.

Today located in New Paris, Indiana, this pontoon builder manufactures nine different lines of pontoons with 62 floor plans. Sylvan’s boats range from 18 to a little more than 26 feet in length.

The company’s pontoon performance system is called Revolutionary Planing Technology, or RPT for short. Instead of traditional, round pontoon tubes, Sylvan reengineered its tubes to be V-shaped on the bottom. In fact, if you look at one of these tubes from the aft end of the boat, the profile looks much like many V-bottom fiberglass planing hulls. This allows Sylvan’s pontoons to lift easier and sit higher on the water under power.

That means less drag and more speed, as well as faster planing.

Sylvan also pays a lot of attention to its building techniques.

Aluminum cross-channel supports are through-bolted to the deck risers for a stiff, rigid foundation, and ¾-inch, pressure-treated plywood is used throughout the deck structure. Fencing is foambacked to prevent rattling, and stainless steel is used throughout for the safety rails. All this attention to detail allows Sylvan to provide a lifetime warranty on the hull and structure, and 6 years on all components, carpet, upholstery and electronics.

When it comes down to picking a pontoon that’s right for you, Sylvan has an incredibly varied lineup to appeal to all sorts of boaters. For simplicity and affordability, I like the 18foot Mirage Fish 818. It has a layout that’s great not only for fishing, but for relaxing, too. Forward are two individual fishing seats, while a large, L-shaped lounge is situated on the aft port corner. That versatility starts at only $14,095 with a 25-hp outboard engine. If fast and luxurious are on your checklist, you should investigate Sylvan’s Mandalay line, which has sumptuous seating options and models with room for up to 300 horses on the stern to blow your hair back.

Performance has improved so much on pontoon boats that many are capable of towing wakeboarders, water skiers and tubers.

Pictured here is the Sylvan 8525 LZ Port.

Manitou’s X-Plode series is designed with one thing in mind: Performance. Today’s pontoon boats aren’t the slow, cumbersome platforms they used to be. With performance packages and new tube designs, some ’toons can top 65 mph.

Manitou

Lansing, Michigan is home to Manitou, the builder of a wide range of pontoon boats from 18 to 27 feet, encompassing nine pontoon boat lines with more than 36 different models and countless different floor plans. Phew! The company has been building pontoons for more than a quarter-century.

Manitou’s lineup is so expansive that finding the right model can feel daunting. Let’s try to break it down like a fraction.

The Aurora line is Manitou’s entry-level pontoon and has seven different models ranging from 18 to 25 feet. Prices start around $13,500 and go up to $22,150. Those looking for luxury should set their eyes toward the Legacy line, which is made up of 23- to 27-foot boats starting from around $36,500 and going on up to $44,800. Most diverse is the Oasis line, which has seven different models between 20 and 26 feet. Like most pontoon manufacturers, each line is highly modular and customizable to suit your taste. Me? I like the X-Plode series, which offers uncompromised speed and performance.

Manitou offers two different performance tube packages: The Sport Handling Package (SHP) and the VP system. Each is based on Manitou’s patented V-Toon technology, which uses larger, lowered center tubes, lifting strakes, side keels, and wave-piercing nosecones to deliver exceptional performance and better handling. That’s all particularly important when you’ve got boats in your stable capable of topping 65 mph.

Build quality on all Manitou boats is top-notch, and the manufacturer places emphasis on quality welding, rigid deck support structures and employing modern technology to increase consistency and quality. Manitou offers a limited lifetime warranty on the decking and structural components, while furniture vinyl, Bimini fabrics, carpet and mooring covers are covered for 5 years.

You might be overwhelmed at this point, but finding the right pontoon boat for you need not be stressful. For starters, taking stock of the type of boating you enjoy (happy hour cruising, fishing, water sports, lounging, etc.) will narrow your focus to certain models, layouts and lengths. Once you hone in on a price range, budget will likely guide you the rest of the way toward your dream pontoon. Unlike fiberglass boats, pontoons have such modularity that it’s easy to customize one that’s just right for you. It makes them the spice of life in the boating world. LB

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The Man Behind the Mold 40

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Great Lakes-born and -bred, marine industry designer Peter Granata has made a career of bringing boats to life for their most important asset — the people who own them. by heather steinberger

I

t’s natural for boating enthusiasts to think about manufacturers first when they reflect on their favorite brands. After all, your eye is drawn to that distinctive logo, a shiny emblem that holds all the magic of the brand promise. But a boat doesn’t start in a factory. It starts in the mind of a designer.

One of the marine industry’s top designers is a son of the Great Lakes. His name is Peter Granata, and over the years, he’s produced an array of award-winning designs and patented more than a dozen ideas. Boating magazine named him one of the top four “game-changers” in the country. He’s the former president of the Marine Design Resource Alliance. And he was born and raised in Chicago.

Granata says he always felt drawn to the water. While family members limited their on-water activities to the occasional fishing trip in Minnesota or Wisconsin, the young Granata wanted more.

“I’ll never forget the first boat I bought,” he says, laughing.

“I bought it with a friend. We were 18, 19, something like that, and we cruised past this place that was still under construction. It had one boat in the window, a 15-foot tri-hull with a 50-horsepower Mercury, and we made arrangements to buy it. We launched at Burnham Park with the idea of cruising to Marina City. We had to go through the Chicago River locks. We heard that we were supposed to tie up, so we tied up. We barely got that sucker off in time.”

Laughing, Granata says he spent countless hours enjoying Lake Michigan after that first misadventure — yet the water was no more than a pleasant diversion from his real focus.

Cars, his first love.

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The leap from land to water As a young 20-something, Granata and a friend devised an idea based on push-button car radios. What if, with power seats, you could just hit a button and readjust your seat to its preferred position? Granata decided to walk into a local engineering firm with the idea in hand.

“I was a rookie,” he says. “I didn’t know what the heck I was doing. I asked to meet the president of the company; this was a time when the hippies were running around, and I was a clean-cut kid, so he said OK. I think he got a kick out of it.”

The firm took on the engineering work while the young men raised money to fund their endeavor. Granata found a Japanese artist to hand-craft illustrated booklets that cost roughly $75 apiece, gathered the books and his friend, and drove to Detroit.

“I went to American Motors, where they let me go through my whole presentation before telling me, ‘That’s great, but we don’t make power seats!,’” Granata recalls, chuckling.

“I got nowhere at Chrysler. General Motors was a great experience, and then I went to Ford. They asked how soon they could get prototypes, and a few months later, we got a purchase order for 50,000 units. That was Friday. On Monday, they cancelled it, and I was left with nothing to do.”

There was always the family business. Granata’s father,

photo by nancy mcgregor

Peter C. Granata, served as a member of the Illinois House of Representatives from 1933 to 1973, and as the eldest son in a Little Italy family, expectations were high that he also would run for office. Granata said he just couldn’t do it.

“My dad was my hero, my idol,” he says. “It never was a sports figure or a superhero. It was my dad. Fill his shoes?

That would be impossible for me.”

So Granata moved on. He learned retail by selling boats for a company called Smith Marine, and he broadened his interest in industrial design.

“The owner bailed out on his brother, so I raised my hand,” Granata says. “The first boat I ever designed came out in 1974, and it was a hit. It was the start of my career.”

It’s not a rare leap, he explains, to move from automotive design to boat design. In fact, a lot of designers are keen to make that jump.

“It’s not apples to apples,” he says. “Cars are designed to protect you from the environment. A car is a cocoon. Boats are meant to expose you; that’s what people love about them. Plus, a boat is more like a house than a car. You have interiors, equipment. And when you add the psychology of people, well, then it really gets to be fun.”

Designing for the people Granata says he always keeps two things in mind when he’s creating a new boat design. First and foremost: People.

“If you get so wrapped up in the product itself, you’ll lose it,” he says. “People have to come first. You have to study them, how they interact, how they’ll use the boat. Who are the customers? It’s fun to immerse yourself.”

The next consideration is the manufacturer, from its vision to its capabilities. A designer needs to understand what the builder is trying to accomplish, how that meshes with its dealer base, and what it can successfully build given its resources.

“You need to make sure you find that visual rapport — the finished product has to look like what it’s supposed to look like,” Granata adds. “As a designer, your job is to do your best to make the builder look fantastic.”

Over the years, Granata has been involved with most major product segments: Runabouts from 15 to 33 feet, cruisers up to 40 feet, pontoon boats, fishing boats, and waterski/wakeboard

tango photo by thomas r . wilson ; bac - pac photo by mike page

boats (he was instrumental in designing the first wakeboard boats). So he also had a front-row seat for the industry’s major ups and downs, including the Great Recession.

“The financial correction of 2009 is a good starting point for the industry,” he says. “It used to be, ‘How big is your boat?’ Baby Boomers were attached to trophies. As kids, they had bikes with kickstands, and they’d be out there polishing the spokes. For later generations, these are just pieces of equipment. There’s a different mindset in the buying public.

“We have an opportunity to start over again with sizing,” he continues. “We need to focus on use. For example, if I’m designing a fishing boat, where will its owners fish? And how?”

Granata says pontoon boats are a great success story.

The key is customization; the availability of multiple configurations means maximum flexibility, and that’s appealing for today’s buyer.

“With a pontoon, you have room for all your family members, and you have a wide variety of configurations that are available to you,” he says. “A pontoon is floating real estate, and that’s the nucleus of what’s happening right now. Years ago, we saw it happen with wakeboard boats — customers were leaving production cruisers because they could personalize a wakeboard boat. Now we have a generation looking for an individual approach to everything, and with boats, that means an individual approach to usage.”

According to Granata, designers need to be thinking about how to create multiple configurations in pleasure boats, and how to create more room. They need to consider the customers who can’t afford 32-footers so they want to validate the purchase of 25-footers.

“And don’t forget the driver!” he admonishes. “Boats are social environments, so you can’t isolate anyone.”

These days, Granata calls the eastern seaboard home.

More than two decades ago, he decided to leave the Midwest for warmer climes — first Hilton Head, South Carolina, and then nearby Palmetto Bluff.

“It’s deliriously beautiful,” he says of his adopted home.

“And although I don’t have a boat right now, I’m constantly on the water. It’s good to get on a lot of different boats and invite a lot of different people. I like to watch their interaction.

“Again, it’s not about the design itself, and it’s certainly not about me. It’s always about the people.” LB

october 2014

The Tango (top left) was developed first for the Marine Design Resource Alliance (MDRA) to help interest manufactures in developing concept boats. The Bac-Pac (top right) was one of four concept boats developed

by Cobalt.

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Almost Buffalo, NY

Top: Presque Isle Beach; Above: Presque Isle Waterworks Ferry; Left: Victorian Princess

Lake Erie

Presque Isle State Park

Erie, PA

Cleveland, OH

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panoramic photos courtesy of visiteriepa . com ; victorian princess photo by craig ritchie

P

t Perfect Erie, Pennsylvania and adjacent Presque Isle State Park offer visiting boaters the ideal setting for a year-round getaway.

by Craig Ritchie october 2014

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T

he term “Presque Isle” is French, meaning “almost an island.” But when we’re talking about the 4.6-mile-long sand spit that fronts the shoreline of Erie, Pennsylvania, the name “Presque Isle” could really mean “almost perfect.”

Created by the westerly currents that flow along Lake Erie’s sandy south shore, the gracefully arcing spit named Presque Isle forms a perfect natural breakwater.

Little wonder the sheltered, sparkling bay in its lee has always been a hub of activity and popular destination for those who ply the waves. Today, with its multitude of attractions, excellent restaurants and top-notch marinas, anchorages and launch ramps, there’s never been a better time to visit Erie and discover its many charms.

Location, location, location Realtors always say the value of a home comes down to location, location, location.

That also applies to cities. Almost perfectly equidistant between Buffalo, Cleveland and Pittsburgh, Erie and its ideal natural harbor has always been the center of settlement. Its first inhabitants were the Eriez tribe, part of the Iroquois nation (indeed, the name “Erie” is an Iroquois word meaning “raccoon”). They were joined by the French in 1753, then English-speaking settlers shortly afterward. During the War of 1812, Erie was homeport for a large naval fleet commanded

by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, who led the squadron to success in the historic Battle of Lake Erie. To this day, Erie is still known as the “Flagship City” because of its special status as the home of Perry’s flagship Niagara.

Erie’s harbor teemed with heavy industry through the first half of the 20th century, and you’ll still see the occasional lake

U.S. Brig Niagara The U.S. Brig Niagara served as the relief flagship for Oliver Hazard Perry in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. One of the last remaining ships from that conflict, Niagara’s home is behind the Erie Maritime Museum at Bayfront, but the ship travels the Great Lakes during the summer on goodwill tours. A schedule on the Niagara website outlines dates when day sails from Erie are offered (flagshipniagara.org/us-brig-niagara/ public-day-sails).

An extensive restoration begun in 1988 preserved as much of the original structure as possible. Niagara was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and designated as the official state ship of Pennsylvania in 1988. — C.R.

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Above left: Presque Isle Lighthouse; Above right: Erie Land Lighthouse; Left: Erie Harbor North Pierhead freighter visiting town. But the vast majority of watercraft plying the shorelines today are recreational boats, as increasing numbers of Great Lakes cruisers discover the allure of this remarkable boating destination.

Presque Isle State Park Erie’s largest attraction — both figuratively and literally — is Presque Isle State Park, drawing more than four million visitors each year. With more than 13 miles of roads, 21 miles of recreational trails, 13 beaches and a marina, Presque Isle attracts thousands of swimmers, boaters, hikers, bikers and bird watchers every day of the year. Indeed, the big sand spit is now entirely protected as parkland and draws more visitors annually than Yellowstone.

If you’re arriving by boat, you’ll see the lighthouses long before shoreline visitors will. The Erie Harbor North Pier Light, located at the entrance to Presque Isle Bay on the east end of the peninsula, dates to 1830, although the original wooden structure was replaced by the current steel tower in 1858. The Presque Isle Lighthouse, situated on the north

Left: Waldameer Park Water World Ride the Comet; Above: Sunset on the downtown Bayfront skyline; Right: Family fun at the Erie Maritime Museum

side of the peninsula, joined it in 1872. This light, a full 74 feet tall, is maintained by the United States Coast Guard and flashes a white light to warn passing vessels of the sandy peninsula jutting into Lake Erie.

The Erie Land Light, just east of downtown, was built in 1818. One of the first lighthouses to be built on the Great Lakes, it was restored in 2004 and is open to the public.

Known for its ecological diversity, Presque Isle is home to a number of endangered wildflowers and no less than 300 different species of birds. In order to protect sensitive shoreline habitats, boats with internal combustion engines are prohibited from navigating Presque Isle’s interior lagoons.

The sole exception is in the ominously-named cove known as Graveyard Pond, where Presque Isle Canoe and Boat Livery rents powerboats, pontoons, canoes and kayaks. The park also has a 500-slip marina located in Marina Lake, on the bay side of the park (see sidebar).

If you’re arriving by car, you’ll want to stop near the park entrance and explore the Tom Ridge Environmental Center (locally known as the “TREC”), where you can learn more about Presque Isle and the hundreds of plants and animals that call it home. Open year round, the center offers a variety of educational and interactive exhibits, a theater, nature shop, Sunset Café, and an observation tower boasting panoramic views.

For a different kind of thrill, head across the road and spend some time indulging your inner child at Waldameer Park and Water World. At more than 100 years old, Waldameer is one of the country’s oldest family amusement parks, with a 100-foot Ferris wheel and the Ravine Flyer II, an awe-inspiring, classic wooden roller coaster. If the thrill rides don’t take your breath away, the incredible views they offer of Presque Isle surely

will. On the way out, stop at Sara’s Diner, located near the park entrance, for the best foot-long hot dog in town and fresh-squeezed lemonade.

Bayfront Erie is one of those rare cities fortunate enough to have its cake and be able to eat it, too. While Presque Isle offers no end of natural delights, just across the bay on Erie’s waterfront you’ll find delectable attractions of an altogether different kind, including art museums, restaurants and more. It’s also where you’ll find most of the marinas and facilities for visiting boaters.

A Taste of Erie No trip to Erie would be complete without sampling its famed pepperoni balls. Think a thumbnail-sized chunk of pepperoni that’s been dipped in batter, then deep fried to an incredible state of crispy golden deliciousness.

Stanganelli’s (1621 West 26th St.; 814-4590101) has been making the best pepperoni balls in town for more than 50 years. To the point, they sell more than one million of them every year.

Every brewery will tell you their beer is best, but the Erie Brewing Company (814-459-7741) just might have a case. Its Railbender Ale is a local favorite that boasts a healthy 6.8 percent alcohol content. Erie was once an important railroad town, and Railbender Ale is named for the immigrant laborers who laid the tracks. Described as a “Scottish-style” ale, Railbender is a nice, dark amber with a bit of caramel sweetness — the perfect pint for a hot summer night! — C.R.

photos courtesy of visiteriepa . com unless otherwise noted ; north pier head photo courtesy of lighthouseinn - ct . com ; niagara and taste of erie photos by craig ritchie

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Far left: Commander Perry statue in Perry Square; Above: Presque Isle Bay Messabout; Left: Bayliner Trolley; Right: Historic Warner Theatre Erie’s downtown remains easily accessible from the water, and many of the top sights sit on the waterfront or just up the hill from the Bayfront Parkway. The downtown core is laid out in an easily-navigable grid, centered on Perry Square and divided to the east and west by State Street, the main drag.

Known locally as the Bayfront District, Erie’s waterfront has always been the center of activity and remains so today.

Start by visiting the Bicentennial Tower, on Dobbins Landing at the foot of State Street, to get your bearings and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Erie and the city core.

Elevated 187 feet above town, the tower was built in 1995 as part of Erie’s bicentennial celebrations and now anchors the city’s skyline. From the top, you clearly can see all the

The Flagship City During the War of 1812, the port of Erie and the protected bays of Presque Isle were a major base for the U.S. Navy. As homeport for the U.S. flagship Niagara, Erie became known as the Flagship City, a nickname that survives to this day. (Fun fact: Erie also is known as “Gem City” because of how the water sparkles in the afternoon sunlight).

Commander Oliver Hazard Perry had six warships constructed at Erie, using wood from trees cut on Presque Isle. The fleet was concentrated in the small bay near the tip of the peninsula, now marked by Perry’s Monument. This location was later named Misery Bay in recognition of the hardships suffered

by Perry’s men during the harsh winter of 1813–1814, after defeating the British during the Battle of Lake Erie. Many of Perry’s crew contracted smallpox; those who died were buried in what is now known as Graveyard Pond. — C.R.

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major sites, including the nearby Bayfront Convention Center and the Liberty Park/Burger King Amphitheater to the west, which plays host to 8 Great Tuesdays, a regular Tuesday night concert series that runs all summer long.

The Blasco Library and Erie Maritime Museum sit just to the east, while Presque Isle Downs and Casino offers big casino excitement just a stone’s throw away. You’ll also see most of the marina facilities along the waterfront.

Located on the water in Presque Isle Bay, you will find Anchor Marine. This complete service, repair and shopping facility is your one-stop source for anything boat-related.

Certified and dedicated technicians and craftsmen provide the full range of boatyard services, with an extraordinary level of personal attention. Whatever your needs, they’re there to get you back on the water.

Visit in August and you might be lucky enough to catch the Presque Isle Bay Messabout. Part of the Bayfront Maritime Center’s Small Boat Festival, this annual event showcases a number of traditional, contemporary and antique boats.

Founded in 1998, the center is a non-profit organization that works with at-risk youth to develop life skills through boatbuilding. To date, they’ve launched more than 91 craft and helped more than 15,000 people, giving credence to their motto — kids building boats, boats building kids.

Besides being a place to play, Bayfront also is a great place to eat. Visiting boaters will be delighted to learn that there are several restaurants located right on the water or within an easy walk of the docks, including Smuggler’s Wharf, Rum Runners, JR’s on the Bay, the Pufferbelly Restaurant, and the Bayfront Grille, located in the Sheraton Hotel right at Dobbins Landing, and offering perhaps the best waterfront views of all.

While downtown has plenty of restaurants and bars to keep

statue and trolly photos by craig ritchie ; messabout photo courtesy of bayfront maritime center ; presque isle and theater photos courtesy of visiteriepa . com

Marine Facilities n Moorings At Wolverine Park Located at Bayfront Parkway at State Street and accessed through a channel between the Sheraton Hotel and the adjacent convention center, the Moorings at Wolverine Park is the closest marina to downtown and caters primarily to transient boaters. It offers 40 floating slips with 30/50amp service and water hookup that accommodate visiting boaters for up to 10 days. Facilities include a pumpout station, laundry, private showers, restrooms, vending machines, ship’s store, and bait. Monitors VHS 16.

a sun deck, restrooms, showers and laundry. perryslandingmarina.com; 814-455-1313 n Bay Harbor Marina Located off Bayfront Parkway West, Bay Harbor Marina offers floating docks with power and water, a pump-out station, laundry facilities, picnic pavilions, barbecues, showers, washrooms, and vending machines.

Transient slips accommodate vessels to more than 50 feet. Service for Yanmar, Mercury and OMC engines is available on site. bayharbormarinaerie.com; 814-456-9415 n Erie Yacht Club

lakeshoretowing.com/wolverine. html;

you fed and watered, shoppers generally head for the huge Millcreek Mall, about 3 miles southwest of the downtown core between Peach Street and Interstate 79, for their retail therapy.

Spanning more than 1.3 million square feet, Millcreek Mall is itself surrounded by adjacent stores and strip malls representing nearly 200 shops in all. Think of it as Utopia with free parking.

Back in time Visiting Erie gives one the impression of being able to travel back in time — partially from Presque Isle’s unspoiled natural beauty, and partially from the impeccable heritage buildings that still proudly define Erie’s heart.

At 265 feet, St. Peter’s Cathedral may rank as the tallest structure in town, but it’s the iconic Warner Theatre, located on State Street, that sends most visitors reaching for their cameras.

A magnificent example of Art Deco and French Renaissance architecture, the Warner Theatre opened in 1931 and was used as a movie theater until 1976, when it was sold to the City of Erie.

In the early 1980s, Erie painstakingly restored the theater to its present glory, and it now serves as a performing arts center. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

The theater features a 65-foot by 28-foot proscenium stage and is complemented by crushed velour, gold and silver leaf, and gold-backed French mirrors. It hosts concerts and Broadway theatre performances and is home to both the Erie Philharmonic and the Lake Erie Ballet. The Philharmonic, in continuous existence since 1913, also has a full chorus and a Junior Philharmonic division that tours the area. The Lake Erie Ballet company performs well-known programs throughout the year, typically to a sold-out house.

While the Warner Theatre may be Erie’s crown jewel, the reality is that lovingly restored buildings featuring grand

marina photos by craig ritchie

814-874-0698

n Presque Isle Yacht Club Presque Isle Yacht Club, on West Bayfront adjacent to the Moorings at Wolverine Park, is a private yacht club that accommodates visiting boaters with slips to 40 feet (larger vessels also can be accommodated), 30-amp service, pump-out, Wi-Fi, washrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and a large picnic area with gas grills. piyc.com; 814-455-7655 n Anchor Marine Ltd. Located on Bayfront at Dobbins Landing, Anchor Marine is a franchise dealer for MerCruiser, Volvo-Penta and Kohler, and provides service for OMC, Crusader, Chrysler, Marine Power and other brands. They offer a fully stocked ship’s store, as well as storage for vessels up to 55 feet. anchormarineltd.com; 814-452-1717 n Perry’s Landing Marina

Located on Bayfront West and easily identifiable by its observation tower, Perry’s Landing is a 226-slip marina with floating docks that accommodate vessels to 45 feet. Slips include water and shore power. The facility offers a fuel dock with both gasoline and diesel, a pump-out station and 24-hour security. Clubhouse amenities include snack bar, pool with

Located on West Bayfront, the Erie Yacht Club offers reciprocal docking with most yacht clubs. Features include fuel, 440 linear feet of floating guest dock, 378 slips, Wi-Fi, launch ramps, pump-outs, showers, washrooms, and laundry facilities. erieyachtclub.org

n Presque Isle State Park Marina Located in Marina Lake on the bay side of Presque Isle State Park, this facility is perhaps a little quieter than marinas along the Bayfront, but more isolated as well. It has nearly 500 slips that can accommodate boats to 42 feet. Open May 1 through October 31, facilities include fuel (gas and diesel) as well as a pump-out station. 814-833-0176 n Lampe Marina Located on the eastern Bayfront just outside of the entrance channel to Presque Isle Bay, Lampe Marina is a 252-slip facility that accommodates vessels to 30 feet. Features include floating docks, shore power, gasoline, pump-out station, restrooms, showers, covered picnic shelters, launch ramps, and 24-hour security. porterie.org/ lampe-marina; 814-455-7557

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Local Events For 2015 dates and full details on upcoming Erie events, check out visiterie.com. n APriL Asbury Woods Maple Festival Maple syrup-making historical tours, arts and crafts, maple flavored foods, music, and more.

Asburywoods.org

Lake City Fire Company Carnival Live music, crafts, food, rides and bingo.

LAkecityfire.org

n JuLy

Erie Microbrew Fest More than 20 regional microbreweries offering their finest.

8 Great Tuesdays Live music every Tuesday evening at Liberty Park/Burger King Amphitheater.

wqLn.org/brewfest

Porterie.org

n mAy

Panegyri Greek Festival Music, entertainment, games, authentic homemade Greek food, and pastries.

Troika Russian Festival Authentic Russian food, ice bar and live folk entertainment. churchofthenAtivity.net

Great Lakes Beach Glass and Coastal Arts Festival Sea glass and coastal artists, live music, shard contest, lectures, bottle ID, and more. reLishinc.com

Annual Erie Wild Rib Cook-Off and Music Festival Numerous vendors compete for Best Ribs competition. erieribfest.com

erieorthodox.org

North East Cherry Festival Family entertainment includes amusement rides, games, delicious foods and cherry pies. necherryfestivAL.com

Harley-Davidson Bike Fest Roar On The Shore Join thousands of motorcycles and enthusiasts with a roaring caravan through the streets of Erie. The huge Harley-Davidson Bike Fest overlaps. roArontheshore.com

n June UPMC Sunset Music Series Free concerts on the beach every Wednesday. discoverPi.com

hderiebikefest.com

Annual Beer On The Bay The region’s largest craft beer festival, held at Bayfront. eriePA.com/beer-on-the-bAy

Leregiment.org

Dan Rice Days Commemorate the life and times of the most famous clown in history. dAnricedAys.com

n August

Discover Presque Isle Days Art area, children’s games and activities, beach volleyball, various music locations, bonfire, and much more. discoverPi.com

ceLebrAteerie.com

• Complete engine & drive service • Fiberglass repair & restoration • Interlux yacht paint center • Ship’s store • Brokerage boat sales • Inside storage

Erie Art Museum Blues and Jazz Festival National, regional, local blues and jazz entertainment in a beautiful outdoor, family-friendly setting. erieArtmuseum.org

8 Great Tuesdays Live music every Tuesday evening at Liberty Park/Burger King Amphitheater.

Porterie.org

w w w. a n c h o r m a r i n e lt d . c o m

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St. Paul’s Annual Italian Festival Italian food and cookies, pasta dinner and musical entertainment. stPAuLrc-erie.com

Lake Erie Fanfare Drum and bugle corps from across the nation.

Celebrate Erie Days A four-day extravaganza that infuses downtown Erie with “a unique spirit of pride and possibility.” Live music and fireworks, too.

Anchor Marine Ltd. Five State St. • Erie, Pa 16507 814-452-1717 • Fax: 814-452-1804 anchormarine@anchormarineltd.com

Top: Annual Erie Wild Rib Cook-Off and Music Festival

Zabawa Polish Summer Festival Polish festival featuring homemade specialties, live polka music, dancing and raffles. hoLytrinityrc.org

North East National Rib Fest Custom car and travel show, motorcycle show, petting zoo, crafters, pony rides, food, and live entertainment. nechAmber.org

German Heritage Festival Gemutlichkeit starts with the “Mad Bavarian.” German music, food, dancing, petting zoo, historical research, and much more. dAnk-erie.org

n sePtember Highland Games and Scottish Festival Pipe bands, fantastic food, awesome athletics, beautiful dance, kids’ games, and an array of gift and clothing vendors at Edinboro University. edinboro.edu

Erie Irish Festival Irish vendors, Irish food and entertainment, Irishthemed art show, and raffles. erieirishfestivAL.com

photo courtesy of visiteriepa . com

19th and 20th century architecture dominate the downtown core. Wander along West 6th Street for a peek at how the other half lived — and still do — on Millionaires Row, a collection of stately 19th century Victorian mansions that harken back to Erie’s first golden age. Beautifully preserved, many of these buildings still serve as residences for Erie’s upper crust. Nearby, the Erie Art Museum, located in the Old Customs house on State Street, maintains a substantial and varied collection, and has become a popular venue for summer blues and jazz concerts, including the “Mid-day Art Break” every Wednesday from 12 to 1 p.m.

If art museums and high society aren’t quite your cup of tea, then indulge your inner sports fan with an afternoon at the ball park.

Jerry Uht Field, off 10th Street just east of State, is home to the Erie Seawolves, the AA farm team of the Detroit Tigers.

An afternoon at the game is the prefect way to unwind and make the most of a summer’s day. Should you find yourself in town early or late in the season, the newly renovated Erie Insurance Arena, next door to Jerry Uht Field, is home to the Ontario Hockey League Champion Erie Otters hockey

at one of Erie’s weekly Thursday Night Downtown Block Parties. It’s exactly as it sounds — the city shuts down a block or so of a different street each week and throws a free party with live entertainment. Schedules posted around town and on the eriedowntown.com website confirm the locations and entertainment each week.

Erie also is host to more than three dozen festivals each summer, many of which reflect its multicultural roots. The Troika Russian Festival, held each May, presents authentic Russian food and entertainment, while the Panegyri Greek Festival celebrates Greek culture in early July. The annual Italian Festival falls on the second weekend in August, and two weeks later, Erie’s Polish community shares its best during the annual Zabawa Summer Festival. The German Heritage Festival, held right before Labor Day and featuring the “Mad Bavarian,” is followed by the annual Scottish Games and Irish Festival.

With so much to see and do, perhaps the toughest part about any trip to Erie is deciding exactly when to go and what to partake in first. While it’s always fun to explore new ports of call, it’s also rewarding to revisit old favorites, and Erie has a way of quickly becoming one of those comfy, trusted

team, as well as the Erie BayHawks NBA D-League (affiliate of the Orlando Magic) basketball team.

If you find yourself in town on a Thursday, join the fun

gems. With its natural attractions, great food, exciting events and facilities for boaters, this is one destination that will keep calling you back again and again. LB

See and do

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lakeshore life | by Craig Ritchie

—> ,000 Almost 9square stunning Lake feet on wa!

Macata

Holland, Michigan

More Information

Nearly 9,000-square-foot custom home boasts all the bells and whistles.

Address 1711 South Shore Dr. Holland, MI 49423

W

ho among us hasn’t dreamed about how life might change with a winning lottery ticket? We think about buying exotic sports cars, luxury yachts, perhaps taking a trip around the world, and — inevitably — buying a magnificent waterfront home with every imaginable luxury.

For boaters, that magical dream house might look a lot like the 8,610-square-foot gem located at 1711 South Shore Drive in Holland, Michigan.

“1711 South Shore Drive sits in a beautiful area, located just east of the Macatawa Bay Yacht Club and Eldean Shipyard, making it ideal for socializing with other boaters and enjoying fine dining,” says associate broker Andrea Crossman-Ortman.

“It has a private, deep-water dock with lifts and is close to the channel leading into Lake Michigan.”

Completed in 1997, this spectacular, custom-built home rests on more than 130 feet of Lake Macatawa frontage in a park-like setting — appropriate considering the home’s close proximity to Sanctuary Woods Preserve, with its stunning hiking trails, and Saugatuck Dunes State Park, with its

Specs Bedrooms: 6 Baths (full): 6 Baths (half): 2 Square Footage: 8,610 Shoreline: 131 feet Price: $1,975,000 Contact Andrea L. Crossman-Ortman Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt Holland, MI 616-218-0267 Waterfront luxuryHoMes.coM

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unique freshwater coastal sand dunes that tower more than 200 feet over Lake Michigan.

Its prestigious address, lush landscaping and phenomenal lake views give this home tremendous curb appeal, but it’s the stunning interior details and sumptuous comforts that truly set it apart. A beautifully curved staircase in the main foyer creates a dramatic main entry, enticing you to explore its large, comfortable rooms with unique lighting and architectural features. The great room — complete with cozy fireplace — offers large picture windows overlooking the lake while a large, open, modern kitchen features lake views and a full center island.

The spectacular main floor master suite boasts a private hot tub deck and an enclosed, three-season porch, creating a relaxing and intimate nest for enjoying those extraordinary waterfront vistas.

“You really must get inside this home to appreciate all the extras,” says Crossman. “The craftsmanship and quality are just incredible.” LB

lakeshore life

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marina watch | by Craig Ritchie

Silver Bay Marina

More Information

Friendly service and modern comforts delight boaters exploring Superior’s coast.

Silver Bay Marina 7 Davis Dr. Silver Bay, MN 55614 218-226-3121

I

t’s every cruiser’s conflict: You want to get away from it all, but without giving up any modern comforts or conveniences.

If that sounds familiar, then you owe it to yourself to explore the crystal-clear waters of western Lake Superior, and call on Silver Bay Marina in Silver Bay, Minnesota.

Constructed as a joint venture between the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Silver Bay Marina opened in 1999 and is managed by the City of Silver Bay. Located on Superior’s rugged north shore about 55 miles from Duluth, Silver Bay Marina accommodates boats up to 100 feet on a daily and seasonal basis in its 110 slips.

“Probably 70 percent of our marina traffic is from transient boaters,” says marina manager Jeremy Kasapidis. “This is an excellent area for cruising. We’re a good jumping-off spot to visit the Apostle Islands, since we’re only 22 miles from Sand Island. Nearby, there is a lot of hiking and biking, as well as a golf course.”

Silver Bay Marina’s docks are wide and stable, with each

SIlverBay-MarIna.coM

Amenities Transient slips: Y Pump-out: Y Gas: Y Diesel: Y Lifts: N Launch ramp: Y Engine repair: Y Hull repair: N Marina store: Y Restaurant: N Showers: Y Laundromat: Y

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_ Get away < all... from it oy but enj modern nd s a comfortnces! convenie

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slip featuring a private dock box, 30- or 50-amp power and fresh water. A wide, deep entry channel leading from Lake Superior makes navigation easy, even for larger boats, with water depth in the harbor ranging from 8 to more than 30 feet.

Facilities for visiting boaters include pump-out, fuel (gasoline and diesel), spacious private restrooms with showers, and full laundry facilities. The marina offers a triple launch ramp for easy access, along with boat and trailer dry storage.

Many boaters visit the area to fish, with Coho salmon, lake trout and Chinook salmon the most frequently targeted species.

History buffs visit to see the Hesper, a 250-foot, wooden-hulled steamship built in 1890 and lost in a spring gale back in 1905.

The well-preserved wreck is easily accessibly to divers, resting in 30 to 45 feet of water just off the Silver Bay Harbor breakwall.

The marina’s season runs from May 15 to October 15. While summer is the most popular time to visit, September can be the best month of all, with perfect weather and light crowds.

“But there’s never a bad time to visit,” says Kasapidis. “The view changes with the season, but it’s always beautiful.” LB

photos courtesy of silver bay marina

The SANDI

GENTRYTeam

The Lakeshore’s Real Estate Leader www.SandiGentry.com

310 E Circle Drive — $899,900 Breathtaking Muskegon Lake views. Stunning 7 bd, 5.5 bath custom residence, beautifully landscaped grounds & 2 expansive patios.

18530 Main Street — $1,775,000 On Lake Michigan! Spectacular location on North Shore with 169 ft. of low bluff frontage.

Best views of Lake Michigan & the harbor.

329 W Circle Drive — $2,995,000 Muskegon Lake Estate on 2+ acres w/237 ft of lake frontage. 7 bds, 7 baths, saltwater pool, hot tub, 3 patios, 200 ft dock w/boat lift.

18190 Lovell Road— $899,000 Waterfront home w/170 ft of frontage on the main body of Spring Lake. 7bds, 4.5 baths, 3 fireplaces. Patios, beach area, jet dock.

18501 North Shore Est. Rd — $3,950,000 Luxury Lake Michigan estate! Modern 3 level with 300 feet of beach frontage and panoramic lake views from every room.

19318 Rosemary Rd — $1,950,000 Spectacular 7800 sf Crystal Bay Woods Estate on 2.5 acres. 245 ft of Spring Lake frontage, waterfall pool & so much more.

19080 Walden Drive — $945,000 Private estate with uniquely designed home on 2 wooded acres w/72 ft of Spring Lake frontage. 3bds, 3 baths and 6500 sf.

16298 Highland Drive — $589,000 Contemporary waterfront home completely remodeled inside & out. 55 ft dock w/boat lift, big waterfront deck. 6 stall garage.

19286 Rosemary Road — $1,995,900 Spring Lake luxury in prestigious Crystal Bay Woods. 7,700 sf with 5 bds, 6 bath defines quality, comfort and functionality.

5041 Lake Harbor — $2,800,000 Custom Lake Michigan estate on 6.62 acres w/195 ft of lake frontage. Nearly 8000 sf with great views from balconies & decks.

4377 Winterwood Shores — $995,000 170 ft on Lake Michigan! Stunning home situated between Lake Michigan & Duck Lake on 2.5 acres in an exclusive gated community.

5865 Old Channel Trail — $1,895,000 509 ft of prime White Lake water frontage w/access to Lake Michigan. 31 acres, historic home, 2 cottages, ideal for development.

15481 Howard — $314,900 Walk-out ranch on Petty’s Bayou with 100 ft of frontage. 5 bds, 3 baths, 2 fireplaces, deck, patio, sea-wall to park your boat.

13661 Lakeshore Drive — $1,775,000 Perfectly placed 4 bdrm, 2.5 bath cottage on Lake Michigan on incredible 3.62 acres and 260 ft of frontage .

375 Pine Street— $895,000 Enjoy Spring Lake views. 5 bd, 3 full & 2 half bath home w/330 ft of water frontage, multiple decks, storage bldg., dock w/boat lift.

287 Third Ave— $895,000 One of a kind! 206 ft on Spring Lake, 2 unit townhouse, 6 unit apt bldg., 7 leasable garages, parking area & 24x72 pole barn.

The SANDI

GENTRYTeam

One Name Sells It All

Call us today at 616.935.1150 Immediate Response 616.502.5551

RE/MAX GRAnd HAvEn 133 Washington, Grand Haven, MI 49417

: in 5 g 01 8 in 2 7 m ry n e Co ua O br iz Fe Or H

exclusive s Great Lake er Partn Preferred

Quality Products • Friendly & Knowledgeable Personnel • Quality service

Your Great Lakes Premier Yacht Dealership

54 belize

6000 Sport yacht

Grand banks 46 eastbay

ViSit www.baymari n e.n et tO See Ou r COm PLete SeLeCtiOn OF Pre- Own eD bOatS

2015 Horizon e78 motor yacht Twin Cat C-32 Acert 1600hp

2013 Ocean alexander 65 Pilothouse, $2,350,000 Dealer demo - trades encouraged

2012 riviera 5800 Sy $1,590,000 Triple Volvo Penta IPS – loaded!

2004 56 Viking Convertible $995,000 Rare mezzanine seating - loaded

Ocean alexander 52 Sedan $414,900 Motivated seller - bring offers

2007 navigator 5100 $599,000 Custom layout - loaded with options

2010 Cruisers yachts 420 Sports Coupe $349,000 Volvo Diesel IPS - loaded with options

1995 Ocean yachts 48 SS $229,900 3 stateroom, 2 head - fish or cruise

1997 bayliner 4788 Pilothouse $210,000 3 stateroom, 2 head layout

2008 Cruisers yachts 420 express $239,000 Impeccable fresh water boat!

1998 Cruisers yachts 4270 express $139,000 2000 Cruisers yachts 3870 express $119,900

1985 Grand banks 42 Classic, $194,000 Twin Ford Lehman 135hp - always fresh water

1996 Silverton 402 motor yacht $87,900 502 Crusader EFI’s - showroom condition!

2005 Cruisers yachts 370 express $139,000 1997 Cruisers yachts 3575 express $74,900

2007 Four winns 378 Vista $179,000 Volvo Diesel IPS - always fresh water

1997 Cruisers yachts 3650 aft Cabin $84,900 2 stateroom, 2 head, ONLY 250 fresh water hours!

2011 Cruisers 310 express Diesels $139,000 New 2013 Cruisers 310 Express gas - close out

2004 Cruisers yachts 280 CXi $59,900 Fresh water only! Impeccable condition

1988 tiara 3100 Open - $48,500 Freshwater Crusader 454 inboards

2007 everglades 240 CC $72,000 Twin 200hp Merc’s - fresh water ONLY!

door county, Wi

w w w. b ay m a r i n e . n e t sales@baymarine.net / 920-495-5567

chicago, il

54 belize DaY briDge

5000 Sport Yacht

gorgeous

6000 Sport Yacht

565 SUv

50 encloSeD briDge

4400 Sport Yacht

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the riviera collection at the fort lauderdale international boat show october 30 - november 3

baY marine Door county, wi 920-495-5567 sales@baymarine.net www.baymarine.net

baY marine chicago, il 630-335-7826 russ@baymarine.net www.baymarine.net

oneKama marine, inc.

Onekama, mi 231-889-5000 steveb@Onekamamarine.cOm www.onekamamarine.com

laKe michigan Yacht sales bay HarbOr, mi 231-439-2675 mattm@lakemicHiganyacHtsales.cOm www.lakemichiganyachtsales.com

Because jumping for joy never looked so fun.

What are you Waiting for?

Find your perfect boat at greatlakesboatsearch.com P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F B AY L I N E R

Elite Marine Yachts Services Corp.

TWo greaT companies, one dedicaTed family.

NeW AZiMUT sALes AND service

services n Sale & Installation of Bow & Stern Thruster n Sale & Installation of Underwater Lights & Electronics n Gas & Diesel Engine Repairs by Certified Technicians n Buff & Wax n Fiberglass Repairs n Boat Transportation by Licensed Captains n Custom Work n Complete Boat Painting n Fully Stocked Parts Department n Ability to lift 150,000 lbs.

elite 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. We share your passion for boating and can perform top quality hull and topside repairs. Our body/paint shop can accommodate yachts up to 65 ft, serving both sailboat and powerboat enthusiasts.

Call us for estimates on your repairs!

Ph: 708.841.5660 n www.marineservicescorp.com

51’ 2001 Carver 506 Motor Yacht

50’ 1991 Viking Convertible Twin MAN diesels, $249,000

Twin diesel, stabilizer, call for price

48’ 2014 Azimut 48

47’ 2006 Carver 43 Motor Yacht

46’ 2000 Sea Ray Sundancer 460

43’ 1983 Hatteras Double Cabin

40’ 2001 Formula 37PC

40’ 1997 Sea Ray 400DA

37’ 1989 Silverton Convertible

33’ 2005 Carver 33 Super Sport

Twin Volvo diesels, $299,000

Twin Cat’s (diesel), $174,900

T-C7 Cat’s (diesel) $349,000

Twin Mercs, $94,500

Twin Detroit diesels, $88,000

Twin Cats, $118,900

PRICE REDUCED

36’ 2006 Carver Mariner

38’ 2002 Regal 3860

Twin gas, $134,900

Twin Volvos, $119,900

Twin Crusaders, $139,900

Twin Crusaders, interior updated, $44,900

44’

Sea Ray 440 Express Bridge

1996

$99,900

Chicago IL

37’

Silverton 37 Convertible

1989

$44,900

Chicago IL

43’

Wellcraft 43 Portofino

1988

$48,900

Chicago IL

36’

Carver 36 Mariner

2006

$139,900

Chicago IL

43’

Hatteras Double Cabin

1982

$88,000

Chicago IL

36’

Carver 36 Mariner

2006

$139,000

Chicago IL

41’

Silverton Convertible

1997

$79,900

Chicago IL

36’

Trojan 360 Express Cruiser

2001

$79,900

Chicago IL

39’

Sea Ray Express 390

1986

$38,900

Chicago IL

32’

Bayliner 320 Express

2008

$81,500

Chicago, IL

39’

Sea Ray Express 390

1985

$35,000

Chicago IL

32’

Trojan F-32

1978

$17,900

Chicago IL

38’

Regal 3860 Commodore

2002

$119,000

Chicago IL

31’

Larson 310 CABRIO

2006

$87,990

Chicago IL

38’

Sea Ray 380 Sundancer

1999

$105,000

Chicago IL

31’

Rinker 310 Fiesta Vee

2002

$64,900

Chicago IL

38’

Carver 380 Santego

1990

$59,900

Chicago IL

29’

Larson 290 CABRIO

1997

$29,900

Chicago IL

37’

Larson Cabrio 370 Midcabin

2004

$119,900

Chicago IL

25’

Tiara 2500 Sport Salon

1979

$6,500

Chicago IL

37’

Sea Ray 370 Express Cruiser

1992

$39,900

Chicago IL

19’

Chris Craft 19 Capri

1956

$27,499

Chicago IL

For more information or to list your yacht, contact Elite Yachts at: 708.841.5660 or BW@eliteyachtschicago.com

For a complete list of all boats for sale, visit our website at: eliteyachtschicago.com

See us at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Hatteras Yachts Display, October 30-November 3, 2014 Cutwater 30 Sport top

ranger r-27 & r-25SC

ranger r-31 Sedan

zodiaC n-zo SerieS

Cutwater 26 & 28

11’ 2014 11’ 2014 11’ 2015 12’ 2015 13’ 2014 13’ 2014 13’ 2014 13’ 2015 16’ 2015 17’ 6 in 18’ 1985 19’ 2015 21’ 2014 21’ 2014 21’ 2015 22’ 1983 22’ 1989 23’ 2000 23’ 2010 23’ 2012 24’ 1996 24’ 2006 24’ 2007 24’ 2008 25’ 1977 25’ 1977 25’ 1996 25’ 2013 25’ 2014 25’ 2014 25’ 2015 26’ 1991 26’ 1997 26’ 2014 27’ 1984 27’ 1996 27’ 1998 27’ 2009 27’ 2015 28’ 1987 28’ 1999 28’ 2002 28’ 2004 28’ 2015 29’ 2006 30’ 1978 30’ 1978 30’ 1984 30’ 1988 30’ 1998 30’ 2001 30’ 2015 31’ 1978 31’ 1988

Zodiac Bayrunner 340 ...............................$14,495 Zodiac Yachtline 340 DL NEO ....................$21,900 Zodiac Bayrunner 340 ...............................$14,495 Zodiac Yachtline 380 DL NEO ....................$25,249 Zodiac Bayrunner Pro 420 PVC 50hp .........$22,500 Zodiac Bayrunner Pro 420 PVC 40hp .........$21,800 Zodiac Yachtline 420 DL NEO ....................$26,900 Zodiac Yachtline 420 DL NEO ....................$28,550 Zodiac Medline 500 NEO............................$33,900 2004 Sea Ray 180 Sport............................$15,900 Century Resorter........................................$16,900 Zodiac N-ZO 600 NEO ..............................$69,900 Ranger Tugs R-21EC .................................$52,487 Zodiac Pro Open 650 NEO .........................$55,575 Ranger Tugs R-21EC .................................$55,487 Tiara 22 ....................................................$12,900 Grady-White Seafarer 22............................$11,900 Donzi Z23 Sport.........................................$34,900 Sea Doo 230 Challenger ............................$24,900 Seaswirl Striper 2301 Walkaround I/O .........$49,950 Bayliner 2452 ............................................$10,000 Albemarle 242 Center Console ...................$39,900 Bayliner 245 ..............................................$33,000 Vanquish 24 Runabout ...............................$76,900 Bayfield 25 ................................................$14,900 Trojan 25 Express ........................................$5,900 Carver 250 Express ...................................$19,900 Ranger Tugs R-25SC............................Sale Pending Ranger Tugs R-25SC ...............................$144,900 Zodiac N-ZO 760 NEO ............................$120,900 Zodiac N-ZO 760 NEO ............................$114,900 Bayliner 2655 ..............................................$7,500 Envision 2600 P’zazz .................................$22,500 Cutwater 26 ............................................$156,036 Catalina 27................................................$14,500 Sea Ray 270 Sundancer.............................$26,900 Four Winns 278 Vista .................................$29,900 Cobalt 276 Bow Rider ................................$64,900 Ranger Tugs R-27 ....................................$189,815 Carver 28 Mariner / Voyager .......................$13,900 Bayliner 2855 Ciera ...................................$25,900 Bayliner 2855 Ciera ...................................$30,000 Sunsation 288 ...........................................$49,900 Cutwater 28 ............................................$209,095 Hydra-Sports 2900 Vector Express Cabin ....$94,900 Sea Ray 30 ...............................................$12,500 Sea Ray 30 Express Cruiser..........................$9,900 Ticon 30....................................................$22,000 Freedom Yachts 30 Sloop ...........................$31,900 Wellcraft Scarab 30 Sport ..........................$34,995 Osprey 30’ offshore pilothouse ...................$99,900 Cutwater 30 Sport Top ............................$327,485 Silverton 31 Convertible ...............................$9,900 Island Packet 31 ........................................$65,000

31’ 31’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 33’ 33’ 34’ 34’ 34’ 34’ 35’ 35’ 35’ 35’ 35’ 37’ 38’ 38’ 38’ 40’ 40’ 40’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 42’ 42’ 42’ 44’ 45’ 45’ 45’ 45’ 45’ 46’ 50’ 50’ 52’ 52’ 53’ 54’ 57’ 61’ 64’ 67’

1988 2015 1987 1989 1989 1990 1999 2002 2005 2010 1985 1992 1979 1989 1990 2005 1977 1990 1991 1998 2004 1987 1984 1986 1996 1987 1998 2013 1987 1995 1996 1996 2005 2007 1986 2000 2003 1996 1968 1996 1996 2000 2003 2002 1997 2004 2005 1999 1972 2008 2004 1981 2006 1989

Pearson 31 ...............................................$27,900 Ranger Tugs R-31 Sedan ........................$319,755 Bayliner 3218 Motoryacht ..........................$28,900 Carver 3227 ..............................................$32,200 Marinette 32 Express .................................$29,900 Carver 32 Convertible ................................$24,500 Monterey 322 Cruiser ................................$39,900 Four Winns 328 Vista .................................$59,000 Sea Ray 320 Sundancer.............................$89,900 Boston Whaler 320 Outrage .....................$199,900 Nauticat 33 ...............................................$99,900 Tiara 3300 Open .......................................$69,900 Mainship 34 ..............................................$35,000 Sea Ray 34 Express Cruiser........................$26,900 Silverton 34 Express ..................................$31,900 Sea Ray 340 Sundancer...........................$109,900 Chris-Craft 35 Double Cabin .......................$26,900 Sea Ray 350 Sundancer.............................$35,900 Sea Ray 350 Express Cruiser......................$37,900 Fountain 35 Executioner .............................$69,900 Tiara 35 Open .........................................$179,900 Trojan 11 Meter Express.............................$59,500 Marine Trader 38 Double Cabin ..................$92,000 Ocean 38 Super Sport................................$69,900 Donzi 38 ZX ..............................................$49,900 Hatteras 40 Motor Yacht .............................$99,900 Sea Ray 400 Express .................................$93,500 Cabo 40 HTX ...........................................$759,000 Hatteras 41 Convertible ............................$149,900 Silverton 41 Convertible .............................$93,000 Formula 41 PC ........................................$109,900 Silverton 41 Convertible .............................$79,500 Hunter 41 Deck Salon ..............................$157,900 Albemarle 410 Express Fisherman ............$334,900 Chris Craft 422 Commander .......................$84,900 Silverton 422 Motor Yacht ........................$139,900 Sealine 42/5............................................$249,000 Silverton 442 Cockpit Motor Yacht ............$139,900 Matthews 45 Yachtfish ...............................$49,500 Sea Ray 450 ...........................................$137,999 Sea Ray 450 Sundancer.......................Sale Pending Donzi 45 ZX ............................................$159,900 Silverton 453 Motor Yacht ........................$269,000 Hunter 466..............................................$189,900 Hatteras 50 Convertible ............................$474,900 Hatteras 50 Convertible ............................$649,900 Tiara 52 Sovran Salon ..............................$549,900 Hatteras 52 Cockpit Motor Yacht ...........Sale Pending Hatteras 53 Motor Yacht .............................$99,900 Hatteras 54 Convertible .........................$1,199,900 McKinna 57 Pilothouse ............................$449,900 Hatteras 61 MY Custom aft deck .............$325,000 Hatteras 64 Motor Yacht ........................$1,499,900 Hatteras 67 Cockpit Motor Yacht ...............$395,000

GRAND HAVEN, MI Brent Reed 616-402-0180 • Bob Lunt 616-843-1225 LASALLE, MI Paul Reed 419-304-4405, Tim Manton 419-509-6948, Chuck Hutchins 734-497-3721 TRAVERSE CITY, MI Brad Thompson 231-668-9868 • RACINE, wI Mark Derenne 414-651-3100

www.reedyachtsales.com

CenterPointe Yacht Services Sturgeon Bay | Milwaukee | Kenosha

We provide everything Lake Michigan boaters need, including the finest marina slips, heated storage, dry rack, ship’s store and complete mechanical/ cosmetic service. We specialize in refits, insurance work and diesel/gas engine repair. We also offer mobile service at your dock from Chicago to Door County.

largest regal dealer on lake Michigan ONLY $99,000

42 sport coupe Volvo IPS 400 Diesels

huge dealer and factory discounts on non-current models.

28 express Volvo 5.7GI DPs

sell your boat this winter in our heated brokerage showrooM

32 express Volvo 5.7GI DPs

call for details

exclusive beneteau powerboat dealer for the great lakes

Monte carlo 5 Volvo IPS 600 Diesels

swift trawler 44 Volvo 300hp Diesels

gran turismo 38 Volvo Joystick 300hp Diesels

large selection of brokerage yachts and boats 70’ 58’ 58’ 55’ 53’ 53’ 53’ 52’ 51’ 51’ 50’ 50’ 50’ 48’ 48’ 48’ 44’ 44’ 43’ 43’ 42’ 42’ 42’ 42’

1990 2004 1988 1996 1986 1999 2008 2007 1962 1997 2000 2000 2007 1995 1985 1997 2004 2010 2008 2001 2006 1968 1999 1989

Hatteras 70 Cockpit Motor Yacht .....499,000 Cruisers Yachts 540 Express..............459,900 Vantare 58 Motor Yacht ...................329,000 Sea Ray 550 Sedan Bridge...............229,000 Canoe Cove 53 Tri-Cabin ..................120,000 Sea Ray 480 Sedan Bridge...............299,000 Sunseeker Portofino 53 ...................825,000 Cruisers Yachts 520 Express..............595,000 Grafton BoatWorks Custom Flush Deck ....75,000 Sunseeker Camargue 51..................169,000 Carver 506 Motor Yacht ...................279,995 Cruisers Yachts 5000 Sedan Sport ...339,000 Silverton 50 Convertible ..................549,995 Ocean Alexander 456 3 Classicco....269,000 Ocean Alexander 48 YACHTSMAN ...129,000 Ocean Yachts Super Sport ................187,000 Carver 444 Cockpit Motor Yacht.......239,995 Carver Sojourn .................................449,000 Cruisers Yachts 420 Express..............297,000 Ocean Yachts 43 Super Sport ...........179,900 Carver 42 Super Sport......................289,000 Chris Craft 42 Commander ................ 28,500 Cruisers Yachts 4270 Esprit ..............144,995 Grand Banks 42 Classic ....................217,500

42’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 41’ 40’ 40’ 40’ 40’ 40’ 39’ 39’ 39’ 38’ 38’ 38’ 38’ 37’ 37’ 36’

1971 2003 2002 1996 2005 1988 1988 1998 2004 2002 1999 2004 1989 1997 1996 2008 1986 2000 1998 1998 2002 2002 2001 2008 2004

Grand Banks 42 Classic ...................... 49,500 Carver 410 Sport Sedan ...................189,000 Carver 410 Sport Sedan ...................189,995 Formula PC - Performance Cruiser ..109,000 Sea Ray 390 Sundancer ...................195,000 Sea Ray 415 Aft Cabin........................ 69,995 Sea Ray 415 Aft Cabin........................ 69,900 Silverton 41 Convertible .................... 99,900 Formula 40 PC..................................230,000 Cruisers 3870 ...................................169,000 Carver 406 MY.................................... 99,000 Luhrs 40 Open..................................229,995 Luhrs 400 Tournament ...................... 68,900 Sea Ray 40 Sundancer ....................... 97,000 Silverton 402 Motor Yacht ................. 89,500 Tiara 3900 Sovran ............................360,000 Sea Ray 390 Express Cruiser .............. 19,800 Silverton 392 Motor Yacht ...............104,995 Carver 38 Santego ............................. 69,995 Cruisers Yachts 3870 Express ...........115,000 Cruisers Yachts 3870EXPRESS ..........175,000 Sea Ray 380 Sun Dancer ..................139,000 Cruisers Yachts 3750 .......................... 99,900 Formula 37 PC..................................195,000 Carver 360 Sport Sedan ...................199,000

sturgeon bay 222 South First Ave. • Sturgeon Bay, WI • (888) 992-2487 Martin Kelsey • 920-559-0366 • martin@centerpointesales.com Terry Godres • 920-746-6238 • terry@centerpointesales.com Tony Peot • 920-746-6236 • tony@centerpointesales.com

36’ 36’ 36’ 36’ 36’ 36’ 36’ 35’ 35’ 35’ 35’ 35’ 34’ 34’ 34’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 33’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’ 32’

1990 1973 1981 2006 1988 1993 1996 2003 2002 1992 1991 2008 1987 1989 1989 2003 2009 2003 1992 2003 1995 1989 1973 1977 1985

Carver 3608 Aft Cabin ........................ 54,995 Grand Banks 36 Classic ...................... 69,500 Grand Banks Classic .........................109,000 Meridian 368 Motoryacht ...............219,995 Trojan F-36 Convertible ..................... 29,995 Sea Ray 35 EXPRESS BRIDGE ............. 59,500 Tiara 3500 Express ...........................119,000 Carver 350 Mariner ............................ 99,900 Cruisers 3572 Express ........................ 99,900 Doral Boca Grande 350 ...................... 38,500 Doral Boca Grande 350 MCI............... 32,500 Monterey 350 ..................................185,000 Silverton 34 Convertible .................... 19,995 Silverton 34C...................................... 29,995 Trophy 3486 BAYLINER Trophy .......... 35,500 Wellcraft 330 Coastal ......................... 72,500 Cruisers 330 Express.........................152,900 Cruisers Yachts 3372 .......................... 92,500 Sea Ray 330 SD .................................. 32,000 Silverton 330 Sport Bridge ..............125,000 Silverton 310 Express......................... 29,900 Carver 32 Mariner .............................. 34,995 Grand Banks 32 Sedan ...................... 21,500 Trojan F-32 ......................................... 19,000 Wellcraft 32 St Tropez ........................ 14,995

31’ 31’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 30’ 29’ 28’ 28’ 28’ 28’ 27’ 25’ 25’ 24’ 65’ 43’ 41’ 36’ 36’ 29’ 27’ 27’ 24’

1995 1995 1996 1990 2001 1968 1997 1987 1985 1978 1985 1930 2007 1994 2013 1946 1988 1984 1981 1965 1966 1976 1947 1965

Cruisers 3175 Rogue .......................... 25,000 Mainship 31 Sedan Bridge ................ 44,900 Chris-Craft 30 Crowne........................ 24,995 Cruisers Yachts 3070 Rogue ............... 18,500 Mainship 30 Pilot Rum Runner ......... 72,500 Owens Princess .................................... 9,900 Regal 292 Commodore...................... 34,995 Cape Dory 28 Hardtop....................... 61,000 Cape Dory Cape Dory Trawler ............ 31,000 Carver 2860 Santa Cruise..................... 7,500 CARVER YACHTS 28 Voyager .............. 15,950 Elco Marinette Cruiser........................ 27,900 Glastron 259GTS ................................ 35,900 Rosborough RF-246........................... 45,000 Sylvan Mirage 8524 LZ ...................... 27,900 Peterson Builders Custom Schooner ....349,000 Nauticat 43 PILOTHOUSE .................234,000 Sigma 41 ............................................ 39,000 S2 11.0A ............................................. 49,500 Seafarer 36 Custom high cabin sloop ...59,500 Columbia MK II..................................... 9,500 Catalina 27 ........................................... 8,500 Palmer Johnson Stout Fella 27 ............ 9,900 Columbia Contender............................ 5,500

Milwaukee 700 South Water Street • Milwaukee, WI • (888) 992-2487

kenosha 21-56th Street • Kenosha, WI (888) 992-2487

John Niemann • 262-309-9579 john@centerpointesales.com

Mike Montilino • 612-419-3772 mike@centerpointesales.com

www.centerpointesales.com or call (888) 9-YACHTS

GRAND ISLE MARINA guarantees the slip rate you sign up for in 2015 until 2020! We guarantee your rate will stay the same for four more years, no matter what size boat you buy in the future. Sign up a 31-footer but upgrade to a 40-ft boat within four years, and your rate will be based on the 31-foot rate!

New customers will also receive $1000 off the regular posted rates for the year 2015.

Discount can be used only once, and applies to customers who have not slipped at GIM for at least five years.

Existing customers renewing in 2015 will also be granted the same opportunity! The posted rate is guaranteed for the next four years, until 2020. This rate applies to existing customers renewing in 2015.

Early pay discounts at the end of the season apply for options such as signing up for both slip and storage, or to slip only, with payments made by October 15. Ask a Grand Isle Marina representative for details.

IN/OUT SERVICE: Act Now! New customers are eligible for a 25% discount off of our regular posted rates (including customers returning after a five year absence). n Quick launching n Extended summer hours n Free jump starts n Free wash area n Unlimited haul-out and launch n Reduced rate transient slips

INSIDE WINTER STORAGE* as low as $5.95 per square foot (call for details!)

OUTSIDE STORAGE WITH WINTERIZATION* as low as $3.00 per square foot DO-IT-YOURSELF* $15 per running foot (includes haul out, pressure wash & bunk) Other great deals include slip and storage packages! * New customers

We offer brokerage sales of vessels 14 to 140 feet.

Dockside parking & picnicking n Pool & patio n Kids play area n Basketball court n Bike path to Tri-City area n Cable television & Wifi n Four bath houses with laundry n Secured parking with gate pass n Water and electric included n On-site service department n Fuel dock and convenience store n

The Best Value on the Lakeshore!

CALL NOW FOR GREAT DEALS ON WINTER STORAGE! GRANDISLEMARINA.COM 616.842.9330

family owned and serving the Boaters of the great lakes for over 50 years

Spring Brook Marina

lower lake michigan cruisers yachts and cruisers sport series dealer

Cruisers 45 Cantius Call For Special In Stock Pricing

2014 Cruisers 41 Cantius Call For Special In Stock Pricing

Boat show reBates availaBle

2015 Cruisers Sport 328 Bow Rider Call For Special In Stock Pricing

exclusive prestige / Jeanneau powerBoat dealer for the great lakes

2015 Prestige 550 Fly Bridge Call For Special In Stock Pricing

2014 Prestige 500 Fly Bridge Call For Special In Stock Pricing

2015 Prestige 500S Express On Order for Winter 2014 Delivery

large selection of new, used & Brokerage Boats | parts & service | dockage | storage

2000 Fountain 47 Lightning with Trailer $99,900

1989 Chris Craft 427 Catalina $69,900

1997 Neptunus 55 Fly Bridge Updated Interior $349,900

2002 Carver 570 Voyager $375,000

1995 Hatteras 54 Convertible Below Market Value $334,500

2011 Cruisers 420 Sport Coupe $399,000

www.springbrookmarina.com

|

815-357-8666

We resuget list yolts! boat ur us todwith ay!

MARINE MARKETPLACE

The ULTIMATE Tender Lift Solution The freedom to use your watercraft where and when you want with just the touch of a button!

FreedomLift® is the ideal solution for transporting your tender or PWC. n Installs independent of your swim platform n The ONLY lift with easily removable lift arms n Features wireless, hydraulic remote control operation n Lifting capacity of 800+ lbs. n Innovative design better than old-style platform lifts

See our dynamic video and digital portfolio on the web:

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Sharing your paSSion for boating Since 1946.

Call our Michigan Office: 616-784-8759 US Patent #6,474,256

. n o i t c e f Per Tiara 50 Coupe

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TIARA COUPE w/2-VOLVO IPSII 950 w/JOYSTICK PLUS CONTROL-NEWEST TIARA MODEL ......... $1,595,000 43’ 2006 TIARA 4300 SOVRAN w/T-VOLVO IPS 500 @370 HP EA., BLUE HULL ................................................... $390,000 TIARA 3900 CORONET w/2-CUMMINS QSE 8.3L @ 480 HP EA; CRYSTAL BLUE ................................. $799,900 43’ 1991 TIARA 4300 OPEN w/HARDTOP & 2-DETROIT DIESEL 6V-92TA @550 HP EA.............................................SOLD PURSUIT SC 365 SPORT COUPE w/2-YAMAHA 350 HP .......................................................................... $449,949 42’ 2005 TIARA 4200 OPEN w/CUMMINS QSM 11@660 HP EA, “C” PLAN ............................................................. SOLD CHRIS CRAFT LAUNCH 32-HERITAGE TRIM EDITION w/2-VOLVO V8-CE DP .............................................SOLD 40’ 1995 TIARA 4000 EXPRESS w/2-6CTA 8.3 DIAMOND EDITION CUMMINS @450 HP .................................. $179,900 TIARA 3100 CORONET w/2-CRUSADERS 6.0L @375 HP FLAG BLUE HULL.................................................SOLD * 40’ 1990 HATTERAS DBL. CABIN w/2-3208 TA CAT DIESELS @375 HP EA .......................................................... $119,000 PURSUIT DC 265 DUAL CONSOLE w/YAMAHA 350 ELECTRONIC ........................................................ $139,949 38’ 2001 TIARA 3800 OPEN w/2-CUMMINS DIAMOND SERIES ENGINES @450 HP ......................................... $225,000 CHRIS CRAFT CATALINA 23-PLAS TEAK EDITION w/YAMAHA 4-STROKE ........................................... $119,949 36’ 2006 CHRIS CRAFT CORSAIR w/2-VOLVO 8.1L MPI GXI DP @420 HP EA.............................................................SOLD CHRIS CRAFT LAUNCH 22 w/MERCRUISER 350 MAG @ 300HP ..............................................................$99,949 * 36’ 1968 CHRIS CRAFT CORVETTE w/2-CHRIS CRAFT 327Q @210 HP ....................................................................$59,700 35’ 2002 TIARA 3500 EXPRESS w/2-CUMMINS 6CTA 8.3 @450 HP EA, HARDTOP............................................ $189,000 PREVIOUSLY OWNED BOATS 35’ 1998 TIARA 3500 OPEN w/2-3116 TA CATERPILLARS w/WARRANTY @350 HP EA..................................... $149,000 75’ 2000 HATTERAS SPORT DECK w/2-3412 CATS @1,400 HP EA, FRESHWATER........................................... $1,595,000 35’ 1997 TIARA EXPRESS “B PLAN” w/2-CRUSADER 502 C.I.D. @380 HP EA ..................................................... $124,900 * 65’ 1998 HATTERAS CONVERTIBLE w/2-3412 CATS @1350 HP EA ...................................................................... $599,000 35’ 1995 TIARA 3500 EXPRESS w/2-8.1 HO CRUSADERS @385 HP EA................................................................ $104,900 64’ 2008 HATTERAS CONVERTIBLE w/2-CAT C32 ACERT @1800 HP EA ........................................................... $2,295,000 33’ 1980 BERTRAM FLYBRIDGE CRUISER w/2-MERCRUISER 454 CID @330 HP ....................................................$38,000 * 64’ 2008 HATTERAS CONVERTIBLE w/2-CAT C-32A @1,800 HP EA................................................................... $1,995,000 32’ 2006 TIARA 3200 OPEN w/2-CRUSADER 8.1L MPI @385 HP .......................................................................... $199,000 63’ 2002 HATTERAS RAISED PILOTHOUSE MY w/2-3412 E CATS @ 1,400 HP EA ........................................... $1,195,000 31’ 1993 PURSUIT 3100 EXPRESS w/2-7.4L MERC @300 HP EA ..............................................................................$49,000 60’ 2006 HAMPTON 600 MOTOR YACHT w/2-CAT 3406E @ 800 HP EA, 4 S/R, ENCLOSED BRIDGE................ $895,000 * 31’ 1989 TIARA 3100 CONVERTIBLE w/2-MERCRUISER @340 HP EA .....................................................................$49,000 56’ 1984 HATTERAS MOTOR YACHT w/2-DETROIT DIESELS 8V92TI @600 HP EA............................................. $299,000 * 28’ 1999 PURSUIT 2860 DENALI w/7.4L EFI VOLVO PENTA DP @330 HP ................................................................$42,500 43’ 2008 TIARA 4300 SOVRAN w/2-VOLVO IPS 600 w/D6 DIESEL @ 435 HP ...................................................... $499,000 26’ 2005 PURSUIT 2670 DENALI w/2-225 HP YAMAHA FOUR STROKE.................................................................. $79,500

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Sea Ray Sundancer ............................$349,900 Matthews.............................................$78,000 Hatteras 43 Motor Yacht Aft cabin ...... $116,900 Nordic Tug ..........................................$479,000 Regal 4160 .........................................$159,900 Chris Craft Sea Skiff .............................$35,000 Wellcraft Scarab ...................................$55,000 Diesel Duck Trawler .............................$79,900 Sabre 38’ Express ..............................$350,000 Regal 3760 .........................................$209,000 Nordic Tug ..........................................$269,000 Grand Banks 36 Classic .....................$139,900 Viking w/diesels ...................................$49,900 Sea Ray ................................................$31,000 Wellcraft Coastal ..................................$29,900 Viking ....................................................$75,000 Nordic Tug ..........................................$197,500 Marinette..............................................$28,900 Mainship...............................................$67,500 Bayliner 30 305 ....................................$58,000 Tiara ......................................................$59,900 Sea Ray Weekender ............................$17,900 Crownline .............................................$40,900 Tiara Vacationer ....................................$10,000

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Tiara 5800 Sovran ’11 .................... $1,350,000 Sea Ray 520 Sedan Bridge ’06........ $485,000 Uniesse 48 Open ’00 ......................... $369,000 Chris-Craft Double Cabin ’87 ............ $21,900 American Tug 34-26 ’02.................... $225,000 Four Winns 328 Vista ’00.................... $74,900 Sea Ray 300 Sundancer ’86 .............. $13,900 Sea Ray 290 Amberjack ’01............... $48,750 Cruisers 288 Villa-Vee ’79 .................. $13,500 Carver 28 Riviera ’89 .......................... $17,500 Albin 27 Aft Cabin ’84 ......................... $22,000 Sea Ray 270 Sundancer ’99 .............. $34,900 Four Winns 265 Vista ’93.................... $12,500 Crownline 262 ’03................................ $27,500

26’ 26’ 24’ 22’ 22’ 22’ 22’ 21’ 20’ 20’ 19’ 18’ 18’

Wellcraft 2600 Coastal ’90 ................. $14,900 Celebrity 268 Crownline ’87................. $9,950 Sea Ray 245 Weekender ’00 ............. $21,900 Formula 223 SS ’89 ............................. $14,900 Sea Ray Pachanga 22 ’87 .................. $14,500 Sea Ray 220 Sundeck ’11 .................. $41,000 Sea Ray 220 Sundeck ’10 .................. $44,500 Boston Whaler 21 Outrage Rib Side ’72...$49,900 Bertram 20 ’70 ..................................... $59,900 Tiara 2000 ’83 ....................................... $12,900 Nitro Z-7 ’11 ......................................... $21,500 Stingray 185 LX ’11 ............................. $20,900 Chris Craft 18 Continental ’56 ........... $17,500

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POWER BOATS Bayliner Bow Rider .......$9,500 37’ ’96 Sea Ray Sundancer ....$42,000 37’ ‘95 Four Winns 258 ............$21,000 37’ ’88 Cruisers 296 Avanti .....$15,900 37’ ’88 Bayliner 2950................$14,900 38’ ’98 Sea Ray Weekender ....$14500 39’ ‘86 Four wins 315 ...............$22,500 40’ ‘94 Carver Voyager ............$17,500 40’ ’98 Mainship Sedan ..........$27,500 42’ ’87 Sea Ray Express..........$18,900 46’ ’01 Sport Craft Pesca ........$24,900 46’ ’04

Sea Ray FB/SDN..........$69,900 Cruisers 3775................$57,900 Silverton Sedan ...........$28,900 Chris Craft Amero Sport ..$29,900 Carver Santego............$71,000 Sea Ray 390 ..................$35,900 Mainship Sedan ........$119,900 Sea Ray Sundancer ..$142,500 Chris Craft 427..............$78,500 Carver 466 MY............$198,000 Carver 460 Voyager ...$339,900

5309 E. Wilder Rd. Bay City, MI 48706

www.hurleymarine.com / (906) 553-6249

SAILBOATS 24’ ’88 O’Day 240 ........................$8,500 25’ ‘84 Catalina ...........................$8,500 27’ ‘73 Catalina ...........................$8,750 29’ ’80 Bayfeild .........................$19,500 30’ ’76 Tartan 30 .......................$14,500 32’ ’77 Pearson 323..................$16,900 33’ ’86 Laguna 33 .....................$22,500 35’ ’88 J Boats J/35 .................$53,000 36’ ’84 Catalina 36 Tall Rig ......$35,900 37’ ’80 Endeavor 37..................$34,900 38’ ‘86 Irwin 38 CC MK II.........$75,000

Details on all of our listings at

989-684-5010 • info@bayharborbaycity.com

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www.bergmannmarine.com Remanufacturerd transmissions in stock.

Older transmissions our speciality.

Distributors of the Drivesaver flexible couplings and mounts, oil coolers and dampers.

Dealer Inquiries Invited 2706 Portage St., Kalamazoo, MI 49001 • 269-345-0629

18’ 1987 23’ 2006 26’ 1973 28’ 2001 28’ 1997 30’ 1978 33’ 1996 33’ 2002 35’ 1994 36’ 1986

Fenwick Catboat ................ $ Kral 700 Classic .................. $ Nimbus 26 Express............ $ Four Winns 285................... $ Pursuit 2860 ......................... $ O’Day Sailboat.................... $ Sea Ray Sundancer .......... $ Wellcraft 330 Coastal........ $ Carver 350 Motor Yacht ... $ Catalina Stnd. Rig .............. $

Fiberglass – Woodworking Storage – Heated Storage

17,500 64,500 38,500 25,000 29,500 17,900 43,000 57,000 59,900 49,500

36’ 1987 40’ 1994 43’ 1995 43’ 2000 46’ 2001 46’ 2000 46’ 1999 46’ 1991 47’ 1973 65’ 2003

Tiara Convertible w/Dsls...$ 114,900 Hatteras Double Cabin ..... $ 125,000 Tiara 4300 Open.................. $ 159,900 Black Thunder 430 SC ...... $ 125,000 Sea Ray H/T ........................ $ 209,000 Sea Ray Sundancer .......... $ 178,995 Beneteau Oceanis 461 ..... $169,900 Silverton Motor Yacht........$ 110,000 Chris Craft Commander ....$ 110,000 McKinna Pilothouse ......... $ 699,000 Complete Mechanical Electrical Rigging – Haulout

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70' 50’ 45' 45' 44’ 43' 42’ 42' 42' 41’ 41' 41’ 40’ 39' 39’ 38' 38’

Davis Sportfisherman T-1825HP Dsl ............$2,990,000 Cary Offshore Exp Quad 502s............................ $159,000 Bayliner 4450 PH MY T-250HP Dsl............... $115,000 Magnum Marine Exp T-735HP DSL............. $79,900 Viking Motor Yacht T-450HP DSL .................... $144,900 Silverton Sport Bridge T-IPS Diesels .............. $705,000 Silverton Convertible T-480HP DSL ............. $264,900 Carver 4207 Motor Yacht T-350HP............... $104,900 Uniflite Double Cabin T-DSL ............................... $64,900 Silverton Convertible T-502s................................ $79,900 Silverton Aft Cabin T-502s.................................$69,900 Chris Craft FB/MY Commander T-300HP DSL.........$69,000 Hatteras Motor Yacht T-375HP DSL .................$119,900 Trojan 390 Express T-350hp ..............................$69,900 Marinette Convertible T-350HP ..................$49,900 Rampage Express T-575hp Dsl..................... $289,000 Regal 3880 FB/SDN T-420HP ............................. $137,900

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38' 37’ 37’ 36’ 36’ 36’ 35’ 35’ 35' 34' 34’ 34' 33’ 33' 32' 30' 28'

Chris Craft 381 Catalina T-350hp .....................$44,900 Egg Harbor Convertible T-350HP ....................... $79,900 Tollycraft Convertible T-330HP ...................$49,900 Silverton Convertible T-315HPDSL .................. $399,900 Doral 360 SE T-8.1Ls............................................... $99,000 Tiara Open T-370HPDSL ....................................... $99,900 Predator Express T-IPS600 Dsl ........................$399,000 Predator Express T-450HP Dsl .........................$249,500 Magnum Marine Express T-415HP................$49,000 Buddy Davis Center Console T-350HP ........... $289,000 Phoenix SFX T-375HP DSL ..........................$74,900 Tollycraft Sport Sedan T-350HP ......................$57,900 Topaz Express T-440HP Dsl................................ $329,000 Chris Craft 33 Crowne T-235HP .......................... $25,900 Marinette FB/SDN T-225HP................................. $22,500 Carver 300 Aft Cabin T-270HP.........................$32,900 Buddy Davis Center Console T-250HP.............. In Stock

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ExClUSIvE U.S. AZIMUT dEAlEr

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by October 1 to get into our November/December, January, February and March 2015 issues!

35’ 2003 silverton 35C LOADED! Bow, stern thrusters; engine remote; Raymar ine electronics; 385 Crusad St. Croix davits; Sea Eagle ers dinghy; shower; low hours; (2); one owner; freshwater only. Cincinnati, OH. $83,000 516 2636 OCT13 . (513)

30’ raMpage 2007 diesel express Hardtop USCG Captain maintained, 200 hours, excellent condition and loaded. Freshwater only, inside heated stored. Great sea boat with luxury cherry wood cabin. $189,000, possible trade-up. Save ~ $100,000 vs. new. e-mail slkraft1990@ gmail.com FEB15

raMpage 33 Bristol condition, professionally maintained, freshwater, heated storage, loaded, 8.1 Horizons, Raymarine electronics, one owner, must see to appreciate. $139,000. Call 231-889-3684 or ddotblue@aol.com. NOV14

1992 tiara 3300 open Versatile cockpit for fishing or cruising, freshwater, newer interior and exterior vinyl, low engine hours and updated electronics. Asking $69,900.

Call Brent @ (616) 402-0108. RYs

1967 38’ CHris Craft CoMMander express Much-sought-after classic fiberglass cruiser w/ flybridge. Good original-user condition with rebuilt 427 Ford V-8s. Must reluctantly sell! 401-954-9657 or emschulte@msn.com. OCT14

2013 38’ Cruisers express Gas sterndrives, Raymarine electronics, skyhook, joystick controls. Like new, less than 30 hours. Black hull, black canvas, mocha vinyl. Engines under warranty, sun pads and electronic sun pad at stern. $359,000. e-mail aKdavid@mcw.edu or call 262-391-4406. OCT14

1990 Bayliner 3888 This is a must-see vessel! Kept with open checkbook. One of the cleanest 3888’s on the market. New canvas and eisenglass on flybridge. Complete electronics. Always freshwater, Lake Superior in Duluth, MN. Asking $49,000 or best offer. Call 612-751-5400. NOV14

Red uced !

classifieds: BOats fOr sale

lakelandboating.com/ great-lakes-classified-ads

2004 MCKinna 57 pilotHouse My Cummins QSM11, 625hp, 800 hours, 3 SR/2 heads, full electronics, bow thruster. Asking $449,900. Call Brent @ (616) 402-0180. RYs

2003 58’ oCean alexander 548 (62’ overall) C-12 Cats, nicely equipped for cruising, generator, fresh decor, 4000w inverter, a/c, heat, Yachtline Zodiac w/ Yamaha. Meticulous owner, gorgeous condition! Lake Michigan. $975,000. Call toll free 844-610-7803 or e-mail summercity2@yahoo.com. FEB15

Powerboats 35’ 1990 Carver Montego LOA 39’, 700 hrs, GPS, Radar, A/P, Fishfinder, Generator, 2 A/C. Many Extras.

Asking $32,900. e-mail boatjerry1@gmail.com. JAN15

CAPT. LARRY LOWE WILL MOVE YOUR BOAT Great Lakes, East Coast, Mississippi or Gulf.

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1998 sea ray 400 express Mercruiser 380 hp Horizon MPI, freshwater, new canvas being installed, generator, AC, VERY NICE! Asking $93,500. Call Bob @ (616) 843-1225. RYs

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1984 34’ silverton Dual station, Twin 350 Crusaders, 750 hrs., air/heat, freshwater only, good condition.

Motivated seller asking $19,500. e-mail dwj267@msn.com or call 773-282-2658. OCT14

NOV14

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2003 Carver 350 Mariner Lake Superior only, original owner, stored seasonally, will sell/trade down to 26’-28’.

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2005 oCean alexander 54 LOA, T-500 hp Yanmars w/380 hrs. Dual stations, full Raymarine electronics,12kW gen, air, Zodiac H/B, deluxe bridge. $414,000.

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OCT14

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71

above the waterline | by Dave Wallace

Speaking Boat-age New words to add to the popular boating lexicon.

D

id you know there is a global language monitoring entity that publishes a “Top 12 Trending Words” list that’s updated annually?

Neither did I, until I read a newspaper story announcing that “derecho” had recently been added to our language. They said it was a Spanish derivation meaning “land hurricane.” It was used to describe the incredible 600-mile path of destruction that devastated much of Middle America from the Mississippi to the Atlantic Coast back in 2012.

It is the degree of common usage — often fueled by the news media — that determines whether or not a new word makes the list. The East Coast blizzard of 2010 inspired the word “snowmageddon,” which immediately went viral and ranked seventh on that year’s Top 12. As a dedicated cheerleader for our unique Great Lakes water wonderland, my goal is to see us at the top of the next Trending Words list by introducing the age of “-age.”

Interestingly enough, this is not a totally new concept. We already have “dockage,” “steerage” and “anchorage” as commonly used nautical terms. It should be an easy transition to extend this list until it begins to attract national attention.

I’m tempted to begin with “mileage.” This is the weakest of the existing “-age” words because it is more commonly applied to automobiles and trucks.

Since boat speed is measured in knots, I suggest adding the word “knotage” to describe fuel efficiency on the water.

Beyond this, our challenge would be to suggest other “-age” related nautical terms. Some of the first that come to mind as I prepare this would be “waveage,” as in the “The waveage was about 3 feet today.” Great Lakes weather forecasting could be modified to communicate in terms of “rainage,” “stormage” and “fogage” to join with “windage,” which is already an acceptable term in the world of marksmanship.

No reason we can’t hitchhike on it and assign it an entirely new meaning.

Many other expressions come to mind. A waterline that needs cleaning could have “scumage.” Another regular boating chore involves keeping our decks clean. This would give us the options of either “deckage,” “swabage” or even “moppage.”

We already have the word “portage” in our language, except that it’s of French origin. Since this word describes the act of moving a canoe or kayak from one waterway to

—> Plenty of s ie opportunite z to squee boating terms into the “Top 12 Trending ! t Words” lis

Dave Wallace has been boating in the Great Lakes for more than 35 years. He’s written for Lakeland Boating since 1993 and helped develop Lakeland Boating’s Ports o’ Call cruising guides.

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another, we could simply extend that description to include the act of cruising to a destination, as in “We took a portage to Beaver Island using our radage to navage through the fogage conditions.”

We also could consider using “portage” as a destination description. “Our portage was Mackinac City, where we hope to find dockage at the municipal marina and spend a few days enjoying the local tourist shopage and fudgeage.”

As we mingled on the docks with other cruisers, there would probably be a goodhearted debate over the relative merits of “dieselage” versus “gasage.”

Not to mention the power source options of “inage” versus “outage” and “sternage.”

Whether you agree with my concept or not, I intend to send a copy of this message to the global language monitoring people. Once the “-age” concept becomes an official part of “boatage,” you can proudly say you heard it here firstage! LB

illustration by mike harris

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