OCTOBER 2025

MARLOW AVALON 65

FORMULA 360 CBR

Transforming cruising from the keel up.

A spacious and luxurious bowrider with a difference.

SOLAR BOAT LIFTS

The power to protect your boat.

SPOTLIGHTS

LYMAN TURNS 150

Celebrating the story of a Great Lakes icon.

PORT OF CALL

Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula really does have it all.

Lake Superior’s Keweenaw Peninsula is a year-round gem.

ON THE COVER

32 Marlow Avalon 65

Redefining yachting in a transformative way. By Capt. Tom Serio

36 Formula 360 CBR

A new crossover bowrider that can’t help but delight. By Capt. Tom Serio

40 Solar-Powered Boat Lifts

The ultimate dock upgrade. By Craig Ritchie

42 A Great Lakes Legend Turns 150

Celebrating the incredible journey of Lyman Boats. By Heather Steinberger

46 Port of Call: Keweenaw Peninsula

Find the perfect outing for the water lover, the history buff and the outdoor enthusiast on Lake Superior’s Keweenaw Peninsula. by Felicia Schneiderhan

Marlow’s all-new Avalon 65 is more than just an elegant long-range cruiser, it represents the penultimate masterpiece from a yacht builder known worldwide for producing the best. of the best.

From the Helm 6

Dock Box 8

Calendar 10

Scuttle 12

Great Gear 20

Marine Maintenance 22

Tech Deck 24

Life on the Loop 26

Boat Spotlights: Absolute, Riviera, Weldcraft, World Cat 28

Lakeshore Life: East Jordan, MI 52

Boat Biz: Starcraft 54

Marine Marketplace 57

Classifieds 67

Classic Craft 68

ve things you should know about boat insurance

Are you ready to embark on your next on-water adventure? Before you set sail, here are ve things to know about boat insurance.

1. Boat insurance isn’t just for accidents

With comprehensive coverage, you’ll also be protected nancially for theft, vandalism, and unexpected events like storms if you need repairs or replacements due to damage.

2. Accidents can happen to anyone

When accidents happen, boat insurance offers liability coverage for damages or injuries you cause while boating, up to speci ed limits. It can also cover lawsuit costs if you’re sued.

3. Boat insurance can cover medical payments

Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you’re in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.

4. Most lenders require boat insurance

If you nanced your boat, you’ll likely need boat insurance since most lenders require boat insurance to protect their investment. Additionally, some marinas or municipalities require proof of insurance for docking.

5. Progressive offers specialized boat coverages

Ever worry about getting stuck on the water?

Progressive’s Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage** can help. It’s an additional coverage that steps in if your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, paying for on-water towing, jump starts, soft ungroundings, and fuel delivery. Fuel cost isn’t included.

Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your voyage. Cruise with con dence thanks to Progressive Boat insurance. Because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.

1

Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes. Go to

to learn more.

Eternal spring

We associate spring with rebirth, fresh starts and new growth — not haulouts, shrink wrap and cocooning the boat for its annual winter sleep. So eternal spring in October? Yes, absolutely, because the things we associate most with spring — fresh growth and new beginnings — are still front and center for boaters.

The proof is in this issue. Between the Spotlights and Boat Tests, we’re happy to share no less than six exciting new launches that each, in their own way, mark a fresh approach to enjoying the water. Our Port of Call this month on Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula sows the seeds for all-new discoveries in the coming season. And even my own story on the latest in boat lifts reveals emerging approaches to keeping the family’s pride and joy safe at the dock.

The theme of rebirth continues, with a look at how one boat builder is raising eyebrows with a reissue of a classic model from 1957 while another — Lyman Boats — marks its 150th anniversary with a nod to the past, but with eyes clearly focused on future growth.

Like walking through a garden in spring, this issue has new stuff and fresh starts poking out all over the place — ergo, eternal spring.

There’s a change of season in the air at Lakeland Boating too. While it’s been a privilege to have been trusted to hold the wheel over the summer, I’m happy to welcome Kate back to the helm as she returns from maternity leave — no doubt with her own fresh ideas, ready to lead the magazine toward further new growth.

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

AREAS MENTIONED IN THIS ISSUE

FELICIA SCHNEIDERHAN

Felicia, her husband, Mark, and their three tsunamis explore Lake Superior aboard their 38-foot Marine Trader trawler, Mazurka. Their early live-aboard adventures are detailed in her memoir “Newlyweds Afloat.” You can read more of her work at FELICIASCHNEIDERHAN.COM.

READ HER STORY ON P. 46

Keweenaw Peninsula, MI p. 46

East Jordan, MI p. 52

Sandusky, OH p. 42

HEATHER STEINBERGER

Heather is an awardwinning writer/editor who has specialized in boating, travel and outdoor adventure for more than 25 years. She grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan and enjoys powerboating, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding with her husband, professional photographer Richard Steinberger, and daughter, Johanna.

READ HER STORY ON P. 42

JORDAN BOHANEK

Originally from southern Minnesota, Jordan now lives on a boat with his family. He combines his love for the water with his passion for helping others find vessels as a yacht broker, enabling them to live their dream on America’s Great Loop. Follow along the Bohonek’s Great Loop journey at their Facebook page “Live the Dash | Traveling America’s Great Loop.”

READ HIS STORY ON P. 26

DOCK BOX

Name Game

We’re always on the lookout for clever and interesting boat names! Send us a short write-up about why you chose your boat name, along with your name, your home city and state, and a high-res photo of your boat (at least 1 MB). Send to INFO@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM and put “Name Game” in the subject line.

NAME GAME

Never Say Never

I got my first boat when I was 15, a 12-foot open plywood runabout with a Merc Hurricane. At that time pontoon boats were just coming on the scene. I proclaimed that I would never own a pontoon boat. Fast forward 65 years, here is my grandson, Ethan, living the dream on my 23foot Crest Tri-toon Never Say Never.

—Ed

Bourgeois

Special K

Since 1981 we have owned six boats of various sizes all called Special K. The K obviously is for the first letter of our last name. The boat has been a big part of our family over these years.

Last month, we sold our last and final Special K, a 48-foot Sea Ray, to a gentleman from Kingston, Ontario. At the sale he asked if he could keep the name, since his first name is Ken. What are the chances? A K for a K! We obviously said okay to that, so the Special K lives on in Kingston, Ontario much to our satisfaction.

—Carol and Jack Kopczynski

OCTOBER 2025

VOLUME LXXIX, NO. 10

PUBLISHER

Linda O’Meara

PUBLISHER IN MEMORIUM

Walter “Bing” O’Meara

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editorial Director: Kate Bush

Guest Editor: Craig Ritchie

Assistant Editor: Abby Thorpe

CREATIVE STAFF

Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs

CONTRIBUTORS

Jordan Bohonek, Glenn Hayes, Ken Kreisler, Capt. Frank Lanier, Patti McCleery, Craig Ritchie, Felicia Schneiderhan, Capt. Tom Serio, Heather Steinberger

BUSINESS STAFF

National Sales Director: Leslie Palmer

Regional Ad Sales: Linda O’Meara

Accounting: Diane Fairchild

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE

1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610

INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COM LAKELANDBOATING.COM

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM

SUBSCRIPTIONS

CANINE CREW

Brandy

Here’s Brandy, our three year-old golden doodle in Little Traverse Bay at Harbor Springs, Michigan. She had just got done chasing a duck which had to fly to get away. She was tired out, so she sat still for just enough time for my wife to get this photo.

— Mike Dee

Calling All Canine (and Feline) Crew!

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

� WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

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

P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-504-8475

O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC

President: Linda O’Meara

Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh

Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2025, by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. / Business/Accounting and Editorial Offices: 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201, 312-276-0610. / Call 847-504-8475 to subscribe. Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 (U.S.). Annual subscription rates: United States: $24.95 per year; International and Canadian: $39.95 per year, includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. 894095074-RT 0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $6.50+ shipping for U.S. and Canada, only U.S. funds accepted. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices. / POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069. / Lakeland Boating is a registered trademark of O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., Evanston, IL. Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. / Unsolicited work may be submitted at the creator’s own risk. Lakeland Boating assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited material. All submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage. / All published photos are courtesy of the company/ manufacturer, unless otherwise noted.

SEPT 26 – OCT 5

Art Along the Lake: Fall Studio Tour Grand Marais, MN FACEBOOK.COM/ ARTALONGTHELAKE

SEPT 30 – OCT 3

World Dairy Expo Madison, WI WORLDDAIRYEXPO.COM

OCT 1 – 31 (FRI. & SAT.)

Manistee’s Ghost Ship Manistee, MI CARFERRY.COM/GHOSTSHIP

OCT 2 – 4

1 Mackinac Island Fall Fudge Fest Mackinac Island, MI MACKINACISLAND.ORG

OCT 3

Fort Fright

Mackinaw City, MI MACKINACPARKS.COM

OCT 3 – 4

2 Chain O’Lakes Blues Festival Waupaca, WI

FACEBOOK.COM/ CHAINOLAKESBLUESFESTIVAL

OCT 3 – 5

Bayfield Apple Fest Bayfield, WI

BAYFIELD.ORG/ BAYFIELD-APPLE-FESTIVAL

Ludington Lumber Days Ludington, MI DOWNTOWNLUDINGTON.ORG/ LUMBERDAYS

OCT 4

3 Door Peninsula Lighthouse Festival Sturgeon Bay, WI DCMM.ORG

Fall Street Festival Port Washington, WI DOWNTOWNPORT.COM

Harbor Springs Annual Fall Festival

Harbor Springs, MI HARBORPSPRINGSCHAMBER.COM

Onekama Fall Fest Onekama, MI

ONEKAMA.INFO/FALL-FESTIVAL

Skitoberfest Boyne Falls, MI BOYNEMOUNTAIN.COM

OCT 5

Benzie County Fall Festival Beulah, MI

CLCBA.ORG/EVENT/FALL-FESTIVAL

Woollybear Festival Vermilion, OH VERMILIONOHIO.COM

OCT 10 – 11

Fall on the Island Festival Drummond Island, MI VISITDRUMMONDISLAND.COM

OCT 11

Frankfort Fall Festival Frankfort, MI FRANKFORT-ELBERTA.COM

Lakeside-Marblehead Lighthouse Festival Marblehead, OH LAKESIDEOHIO.COM

Oktoberfest Pentwater, MI PENTWATER.ORG/OKTOBERFEST

OCT 11 – 12

Oak Harbor Apple Festival Oak Harbor, OH OAKHARBORAPPLEFESTIVAL.COM

Oktoberfest Put-in-Bay, OH VISITPUTINBAY.COM

Pumpkinfest Whitehall, MI WHITELAKE.ORG

Pumpkin Patch Egg Harbor, WI EGGHARBORDOORCOUNTY.ORG

OCT 11 – 13

4 Charlevoix Apple Festival Charlevoix, MI CHARLEVOIX.ORG

OCT 16 – 19

Family Weekend Grand Marais, MN NORTHHOUSE.ORG

Fresh Coast Film Fest Marquette, MI FRESHCOASTFILM.COM

Kohler Food & Wine Kohler, WI AMERICANCLUBRESORT.COM

OCT 17 – 19

Sister Bay Fall Fest

Sister Bay, WI SISTERBAY.COM

OCT 18

Punkin Chunkin Clayton, NY

1000ISLANDS-CLAYTON.COM/ PUNKINCHUNKINCLAYTON

OCT 18 – 19

Lakeshore Art Trail Port Credit, ON LAKESHOREARTTRAIL.COM

OCT 24 – 26

Mackinac Island

Halloween Weekend Mackinac Island, MI MACKINACISLAND.ORG

OCT 25 Boo at the Zoo Racine, WI RACINEZOO.ORG

Detroit Fall Beer Fest Detroit, MI MIBEER.COM

Halloween at the Bay Put-in-Bay, OH VISITPUTINBAY.COM

Oak Creek Fall Festival Oak Creek, WI OAKCREEKWI.GOV

5 Thrills & Chills Sturgeon Bay, WI STURGEONBAY.NET

Trek & Treat Cape Vincent, NY CAPEVINCENT.ORG

OCT 25 – 26

Ellison Bay Arts Fall Art Crawl Ellison Bay, WI DOORCOUNTYNORTH.ORG

OCT 31

Trunk R’ Treat in the Village Bay Harbor, MI BAYHARBOR.COM

SCUTTLE

� ADD YOUR NEWS!

Email INFO@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM to add your company's news to Scuttle.

Local Door County boater Matt Olson discovered the shipwreck remains of the long-lost 1867 Frank D. Barker in 24 feet of water near Rowleys Bay in Lake Michigan. The 137-foot canaller vessel, designed for grain transport, sank in 1887 amid bad weather while bound for Escanaba, Michigan. The captain and crew struggled to correct course, becoming stranded on nearby Spider Island. Multiple salvage missions failed, resulting in a total loss of the vessel valued around $8,000 at the time — over $250,000 today. Historical newspaper accounts of the shipwreck placed it closer

MUST HAVE

Bay

to Spider Island, which likely contributed to it not being discovered for so long.

“Whenever we receive this type of call, it’s hard to know exactly what we will find. We were excited to identify the wreck as the Frank D. Barker, whose exact location has been lost for over a century,” said Tamara Thomsen, Wisconsin Historical Society maritime archaeologist. “We are grateful for Matt Olson’s keen sense of observation and quick reporting of the discovery so we can document this chapter of Wisconsin’s storied maritime history.”

Visit WISCONSINHISTORY.ORG to learn more.

Mercury Expands V10 Verado Lineup

Mercury Marine adds to its popular V10 Verado lineup with the new 425hp outboard and an enhanced 350hp model. Delivering class-leading acceleration and weight advantages, the new 425hp is said to be 3 seconds faster from 0-30 mph than a 450hp competitor on a 26-foot, 5,000-pound center-console boat with a heavy load, while weighing 254 pounds less and operating with 22% less noise at cruise. The outboard is also equipped with a 150-amp alternator — the highest output in its class. The enhanced 350hp model delivers 2.7 mph greater top speed than a 350hp competitor, is 4 seconds faster from 0-30 mph and 17.8 seconds faster from 0 to top speed. The new engine is also 40% quieter at cruise.

“These new V10 Verado engines reflect our commitment to giving boaters exactly what they’ve asked for: greater performance with the same smooth, refined experience they expect from Mercury,” said John Buelow, Mercury Marine president. “With this launch, we’re raising the bar in the high-horsepower category and reaffirming the Verado family’s position as the pinnacle of premium outboard performance.”

To learn more, visit MERCURYMARINE.COM.

GREAT LAKES NEWS

Frank D. Barker Shipwreck Discovered in Rowleys

Great Lakes News Boats Must-Have Buzz Events Business

SCUTTLE

The 2026 S 388 Sport from Pursuit Delivers Versatility

Pursuit debuted its all-new for 2026 S 388 Sport at an exclusive event at the historic Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, in August. At just over 41 feet, the new S 388 Sport is powered by triple Yamaha 450 XTO outboards and delivers industry-leading fishability and versatility. From multiple social zones including a wraparound bow lounge to a fully equipped entertainment center, the new model is set to impress. Best-in-class amenities include a spacious cabin, multiple fishing amenities like a 36-gallon livewell, in-floor fishboxes, tackle storage, premium outriggers, a starboard dive door with removable ladder, and more.

“From the bow to the transom, every inch of the S 388 was purpose-built with our owners in mind,” said Chris Gratz, president of Pursuit Boats. “It’s a boat that reflects how people want to spend their time on the water — spacious, capable, and beautifully appointed. We’re thrilled to debut it here at the Vinoy, a setting that reflects the elegance and energy of the S 388.”

To learn more, visit PURSUITBOATS.COM.

Walstrom Marine Acquires Property, Considers Marina for Traverse City

Far Side Properties working in collaboration with Walstrom Marine acquired the Viridian commercial office building on South West Bay Shore Drive in Traverse City, Michigan, with plans of establishing a marina or mixed-use development.

“Living and working in the Grand Traverse area, we know that lake access for boaters has reached a critical status. Folks are waiting upwards of a decade to get a slip,” says Kyle Oleson, general manager of in Traverse City. “We want to be part of the solution.”

Far Side and Walstrom are in conversations with other local property owners and are actively seeking input from the community for future development plans of the property. Ideas include a full-scale marina with facilities as well as a mixed-use development with condominiums and a private marina.

To learn more, visit WALSTROM.COM

Viking Yacht

Founder Bill Healey Remembered

William J. Healey, founder and former president of Viking Yacht Company in New Gretna, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, at age 97, surrounded by his loving family. Healey founded the company with his brother Robert Healey in 1964, and throughout the years built a boat manufacturing empire, driven by the desire to build a boat better every day, and marked by his unwavering commitment to the dedicated boatbuilders who worked with him.

Healey demonstrated a deep value for his team, standing by the door every evening to thank them and wish them a good night. One of four brothers, Healey was born in 1927 and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the final years of World War II. Healey took over failing wooden boatbuilder Peterson-Viking with his brother, ultimately building Viking Yachts into one of the world’s largest builders of luxury fiberglass sportfishing and cruising yachts.

Among major honors throughout his life, Healey was awarded the Ernst & Young NJ Manufacturing Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 1998, inducted into the National Marine Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame in 2003, and inducted in the Marine Trades Association of NJ Hall of Fame in 2024.

BOATS

2026 Nv233 from Centurion

The new 2026 Centurion Nv233 is a performance driven surf boat that delivers world-class waves and wakes without breaking the bank. Offered in an impressively styled package, the new model offers a host of features and accommodates up to 14 people while remaining at an entry-level price. New for 2026 are three Cool Touch Vinyl interior color options. Built to perform, the Nv233 delivers up to 5000 pounds of ballast and can be filled 68% faster with the Fast Mover Ballast System by SeaFlo. The Silent Stinger wake plate keeps sessions quiet and smooth, while the optional QuickSurf Pro actuated by new Lenco Smart Rams moves the curl from side to side in 1.8 seconds. Essential systems are all at the captain’s fingertips, thanks to a new Knob Ops Control System with an intuitive dash-mounted interface. Additional features include a DropZone Auto Tower that folds and raises in seconds at the touch of a button, an opti-V hull for a smoother rider and more displacement, and up to 50% better fuel efficiency than competing surf boats. To learn more, visit CENTURIONBOATS.COM

BOATING PLEASURE

SCUTTLE

Jeanneau Debuts Three New Models for 2026

Jeanneau is launching three allnew models for 2026, blending performance, versatility and features tailored for each region.

The new Cap Camarat 9.00 CC Series 2 and the Merry Fisher 1095 Flybridge Series 2 debut at fall boat shows, with the Merry Fisher 1095 Coupe Series 2 making its debut in 2026 at Düsseldorf Boat Show. With a fresh energy and proven design, the Cap Camarat 9.0 CC Series 2 redefines the family day boat with fresh styling, a new hull and elongated profile for smoother cruising. Thoughtfully designed spaces include a fold-down terrace and modular cockpit.

The Merry 1095 Series 2 integrates the advances of the Merry Fisher 1295 flagship, with a new hull and spacious layout that allows for easy movement throughout and is ideal for entertaining. The flybridge version delivers elevated views and open air spaces to soak up the warm weather, while the Coupe offers a sleek, lower profile perfect for navigating areas with height restrictions or cooler climates.

To learn more, visit JEANNEAU.COM

BUSINESS

Lakeland Boating Welcomes Leslie Palmer as National Sales Director

Lakeland Boating is excited to welcome Leslie Palmer to the team as our new National Sales Director. Born and raised in southeast Michigan, Leslie attended Michigan State University and started her advertising career in Detroit. With a love of boating, her career path led her most recently to Boating Industry where she was the National Sales Director. She loves spending time on and off the water in northern Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula and traveling and spending time with her husband and two grown children. Leslie’s experience in the world of marine industry print and digital advertising sales and marketing is vast and deep and she brings a wealth of knowledge to the team. We look forward to many successful magazine issues ahead with Leslie on the team!

Gulf Harbour Marina

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

• Marina Boat Slips for Sale: 38', 48', 50', 60', 70' and T-Docks when available

• Boat Slips for Lease: Gulf Harbour Marina, 239-437-0881

• Fuel discounts and dockside pumpouts

• Over 20 neighborhoods homes & condos available at $250,000 to over $5 million

• Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club memberships available: 18 hole championship golf course, tennis complex, Spa-Fitness Center, Waterside Grille and Johnny Brown’s waterfront restaurants

• Only 5 miles to Beach Islands and 30 minutes to International Airport Call Us... We are former Midwest residents and Great Lakes cruisers who have lived in Gulf Harbour for over 28 years, and own a slip for our boat.

GREG & JO CALLAWAY

1. Bote Highwater Belt Pack

GREAT GEAR

Must-have goodies, gadgets and more for every boater

Keep your valuables safe and dry even during inclement weather with this 100% waterproof belt pack from Bote. Crafted from waterproof nylon, the pack is fully submersible and features two TRU Zip waterproof compartments perfect for phones, wallets and more. Molle loops, D-rings and cam straps make it easy to add further gear. With a 3.6L capacity, the 10.5-inch wide, 6.5-inch high and 9.75-inch deep pack features a waterproof, dustproof, airtight and submersible zipper that withstands the elements. Available in multiple fun colors and patterns. $119 AT BOTEBOARD.COM

2. Cape Marine Personalized Gunwale Boarding Mat

Protect your boat from marks and scratches while adding your own personal flair with this personalized gunwale boarding mat from Cape Marine. Made in the USA from UV resistant, marine-grade carpet with a non-skid, nonmarking Eco-Stay rubber backing and 100% recycled materials, the mat offers a safer way to board the boat. Sand weighting at both ends prevents the mat from sliding during boarding, or blowing overboard. Customize with your own theme with a logo, phrase, boat name or artwork. Available in large or medium. $99.99 AT THECAPEMARINE COM

3. Railblaza Anchorpoint Phone Holder

Keep your phone safe and secure, whether you’re using it to help navigate, as a sonar screen or to capture epic watersports behind the boat. The mount locks in tight with a fivepoint silicone-lined vice clamp to keep your phone safe and secure regardless of bumps, wind or chop. Vibration dampening suspension creates a smooth video, while the 360 degree locking arm allows you to get any angle you want. Universal fit, with a quick release lever. Made from corrosion-resistant aluminum for lasting durability. $75 AT RAILBLAZA.COM

4. NuMetal Epoxy Putty & Body Filler

5. Liquid Hammock

Soak up the sun with this comfortable water hammock. Built from dual-walled fabric that is glued then heat-welded for extreme durability, the high-quality, inflatable ring features an anti-gravity mesh base and heel hoops that prevent you from sliding. Four built-in, selfdrain cupholders make socializing easy, while the two stainless D-rings keep you secured to the boat or dock. Easily move the hammock with the two reinforced comfort handles that glow in the dark. Measuring 8 feet, 3 inches in diameter with a 6-foot center, it comes with an air pump, backpack carrier, repair kit and koozies. $699.99 AT LIQUIDHAMMOCKS.COM

Perfect for hull, deck and keel repairs, NuMetal Epoxy Putty delivers a steel-like, durable solution. The easy-to-use, two-part formula kneads into a clay-like compound that cures without shrinking or sagging. It can be used on paint, stain or gelcoat finishes and drilled, tapped, sanded, primed and painted as required. Best of all, it not only sticks to damp surfaces, but it will cure underwater to fill cracks, holes, gouges or seal and bond fittings and hardware. Available in two sizes in white, tan, black and grey. $10-27 AT KBS-COATINGS.COM

� ADD YOUR GEAR! Email INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COM to add your company's new product to Great Gear.

6. Along Lake Michigan: Shipwreck Stories of Life and Loss

Dive into stories of some of Lake Michigan’s infamous shipwrecks over the past century in this book by Michael Schumacher. Lake Michigan has more shipwrecks than the other four lakes combined, and their stories weave a tale of disaster, misfortune, bravery and tragic loss that is remembered to this day. From the wreck of the Phoenix in 1847 to the loss of the Anna Minch to the 1940 Armistice Day storm, Schumacher explores a host of shipwrecks interweaving deep research, vivid storytelling and a wealth of historic photographs. $24.95 AT UPRESS.UMN.EDU

MARINE MAINTENANCE

By Capt. Frank Lanier

The Sound of Silence

How to install soundproofing.

Time spent on the water should be relaxing, but that can be difficult when conversations require screaming over engine noise and nights spent listening to the incessant drone of a generator or air conditioning unit instead of enjoying a restful sleep. Soundproofing can make a huge difference in onboard comfort, and installing it is easier than you think.

The best way to combat noise is by containing it at the source — within an engine compartment for example. Installing a good quality foam soundproofing barrier can reduce engine noise by 10 to 35 decibels, or by about 65%. Soundproofing material comes in a wide variety of forms, from sprays and paints to foil-backed foam panels, which are a popular and effective choice.

Self-adhesive panels are easy to install (just peel and stick) but you have to position them exactly where you want them on the first try, as you typically can’t reposition them without damaging the foam. Non-adhesive backed panels aren’t as convenient as they require spray or brush-on adhesives, but they may permit a bit of last-minute repositioning, making them easier to work with in particularly tight spaces.

Regardless of the adhesive used, panels also require the use of mechanical fasteners such as screws and fender washers, particularly for panels mounted in overhead horizontal installations. To prevent gripping and tearing the foam, wax the screws by running them into a candle prior to use.

Check the fit

Soundproofing panels can be cut to shape with a box cutter or razor knife, but a serrated knife blade will yield a cleaner cut. Thin sheets of soundproofing material can also be cut with good quality scissors. To ensure the best fit and avoid snafus, make cardboard

1. Read all instructions before starting.

2. Make templates to check fit, allowing for material thickness at corners.

3. Ensure you provide adequate ventilation and keep insulation above bilge water levels.

templates to check fit and for use as a cutting guide. Then be sure to dry-fit everything prior to applying adhesives or peeling self-adhesive panels.

When planning your installation remember that sound flows like water, meaning you’ll want to use Mylar seal or joining tape (typically provided by the manufacturer) to prevent leaks at panel joints.

Cables and hoses penetrating the soundproofing material should be sealed using tight-fitting rubber grommets, while access hatches should close snugly with a good, tight seal.

That said, any soundproofing installation in engine compartments must also provide adequate ventilation. Required vents and air holes can be hushed by using air baffles.

It’s not realistic to expect all noise to be eliminated once soundproofing is installed, but when done correctly you should at least be able to carry on a conversation at normal volume levels. After all, who wants to yell when they are trying to relax?

Installation tips

4. Provide a minimum clearance of six inches between soundproofing and engine or generator exhaust manifolds.

5. The foil side of soundproofing foam should face upwards when cutting.

6. Avoid folding material back on itself, which can result in creasing.

7. Seal all exposed edges with mylar seam tape.

8. Don’t rely on adhesives alone — use fasteners and fender washers where appropriate.

9. Install one panel at a time, starting at the top so lower panels can provide support.

CAPT. FRANK LANIER is an award-winner journalist, boat maintenance guru and owner of Capt. F.K. Lanier & Associates, Marine Surveyors and Consultants. Check out his YouTube channel "Everything Boats with Capt. Frank Lanier." CAPTFKLANIER.COM

CAPT. FRANK LANIER PHOTOS

The best strategy to address noise is by containing it at the source. Soft sound shields provide both installation flexibility and significant noise reduction.

Use joining tape to seal and prevent sound leaks at the panel joints.

Overhead panels require the support of mechanical fasteners.

TECH DECK

By Glenn Hayes

Creating Personal Electronic Charts

Can’t find a chart you like? It’s easy to make your own.

Although electronic charts have vastly improved over the last decade, some destinations still lack the kind of detail that most boaters and fishers desire. Fortunately, there are now chartplotters from manufacturers like Garmin, Simrad, Lowrance, Raymarine and Humminbird that can create their own highly detailed cartography for poorly charted areas.

Garmin’s Quickdraw Contours software, for example, comes pre-loaded into many of their chartplotters bringing the ability to utilize depth data to create bathymetric lines on the chart display, then saving the data to a memory card loaded in the display.

As with all sonars, the depth recording begins with a sound signal which is transmitted through the water via the unit’s transducer. The sound wave is then reflected off the bottom and that echo is received by the transducer, and the unit does the math to determine the depth. So far so good.

With Quickdraw Contours, Garmin takes this information and creates a bathymetric line the size of the reflected signal, drawing that line on the chart. As the boat moves through the water, the software splices these lines together, creating a bathymetric chart with lines identifying one-foot changes in depth. On your display, when in the Quickdraw Contours setting, Garmin will indicate the mapped area with a small circle surrounding your boat. If it is green, you have good GPS coverage, good depth, and are running at a speed under 10 mph (the best scenario for creating charts). If the circle is yellow, you have good GPS

coverage and depth but are running a bit fast for optimal charting, normally between 10 and 20 mph. The red circle indicates that one or a combination of factors prevents accurate recording. So long as you’re not seeing red, you can quickly and easily map any area you like and save the data for future use.

Recording on the Garmin is as simple as entering the menu from the chart view and pressing the Start Recording button, with no engineering degree required.

It is important to note that this new data should be stored on a memory card. Depending on the specific display, it will be either an SD or microSD card. Garmin recommends using a single-beam sonar to record longer, and they estimate being able to record up to 1,500 hours of data on a 2 GB memory card. That can translate to a lot of detailed charts of your favorite spots.

Community sharing

You can choose to share your newly charted information with other boaters if you feel generous and community minded. Garmin’s Quickdraw Community is an online resource that allows boaters to upload and share recorded data. As easy as it is to upload your data to share with the community, it is just as easy to select and download someone else’s data that may be useful for you. The community can be accessed online or through Garmin’s Active Captain app.

If your display has WIFI capability or through your smart device, you can just search for areas you are interested in and download them. Once loaded into the chart plotter, you have access to improved or previously uncharted areas for your fishing and cruising pleasure. A quick search through the community will show the extensive charting already available and growing daily. It is also a great source of finding new honey holes and anchorages you may not have considered.

One interesting note when sharing data is that only your depth recordings are shared, not your waypoints, so you can share data without fear of giving away all your favorite fishing spots.

Other display manufacturers and even electronic charting manufacturers have their own versions of self- and community-mapping capabilities. No matter which version you end up with, this is a powerful and valuable feature that can seriously improve your time on the water.

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

It’s easy to create custom cartography using a wide range of chartplotters.

LIFE ON THE LOOP

By Jordan Bohonek

Why The Great Loop?

Sometimes you have to write your own script.

We didn’t ease into it.

We didn’t test the waters with a long weekend away, or nourish a ‘maybe someday’ plan.

One day, we were living a normal life — house, careers, kids, the works — then just like that we found ourselves standing on the deck of a boat we’d never seen before, about to embark on an 8,000-mile journey with nothing but backpacks.

As our careers and finances had grown, so did our enjoyment of things. Big things, small things, shiny things. And, sharing those things with family and friends. But somewhere between all the celebrations, toys and travel, a quiet voice started to whisper: What happens if something happens? What if a health scare, a job change, or an economic downturn took away the income stream we relied on to keep the lifestyle going? That voice kept getting louder.

We realized the hamster wheel we were sprinting on wasn’t just exhausting, it was completely unsustainable. Then came the tipping point. A few health challenges. Some shakeups at work. A splash of family drama. It all collided in a way that made us realize it was time to hit the pause button.

We sold the house. Sold the cars. Uprooted our careers. Pulled the kids out of school. Bought a boat we had never laid eyes on in person. And, set off on that 8,000-mile journey with just backpacks on our

shoulders, schlepping through airports like we were headed to summer camp rather than a year-long voyage. It was freeing. It was terrifying. It was exactly what we needed.

Hitting the reset button

We learned to slow down. Not the weekend getaway kind of slow down, but the deep, soul-level kind where you can name the last five sunsets you’ve watched, and you remember the exact shade of orange in each one.

One of the most unexpected gifts of the Loop was the people we met. Sure, we had read about the “Looper community” in blogs and forums, but nothing could have prepared us for the depth of connection we’d find out there on the water. Some of these friends became so close we now consider them family. They are the kind of people we’ll travel across states to see, whose kids’ graduations we’ll attend, and who will forever have a guest cabin waiting for us on their boat or a spare room in their house. The Loop gave us miles, but it also gave us a tribe. And that, perhaps, is its greatest treasure. Now I’m not saying everyone should sell all their stuff, buy a boat, and take off for a year (though if you do this, call me — I know a good yacht broker). But I am saying that you don’t have to wait for a crisis in order to take greater control of your life. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is step away from the script you’ve been handed and go write your own. For some, that might mean taking a sabbatical. For others, downsizing and moving closer to family. For us, it was an adventure that required navigation charts and diesel fuel.

By the time we completed the Loop, we had more than just miles under our keel. We had inside jokes that will last a lifetime, an unshakable family bond and an appreciation for experiences over possessions. We also discovered an incredible community of boaters, Harbor Hosts and strangersturned-friends who reminded us that the world is still full of kindness if you’re willing to look for it.

So, when people ask why we stepped back and found a new life on the Loop, my answer is easy. Because life was too short to wait. Because we needed to find out what was on the other side of enough. And because sometimes, you have to leave everything behind in order to truly come home.

Sometimes the best thing a person can do is to step away from routine and forge a new path, says the author.

JORDAN BOHONEK

Originally from southern Minnesota, Jordan now lives on a boat with his family. He combines his love for the water with his passion for helping others find vessels as a yacht broker, enabling them to live their dream on America’s Great Loop. Follow along the Bohonek’s Great Loop journey at their Facebook page “Live the Dash | Traveling America’s Great Loop.”

Read Lakeland’s New Web Series!

Join along as Karly and Evan Nietzel, high school sweethearts originally from Iowa, cruise the Great Loop! We are tracking them in real-time on our website. Read an excerpt from a recent post below.

Back in the U.S.A.

Home sweet home! After eight incredible weeks in Canada, we finally crossed back to the United States up in Northern Michigan. Of course it was not without one small hurdle of needing to wait out some weather for a few days while on anchor.

Our final stop in Canada was in Beardrop Harbour — an extremely protected anchorage from all wind angles, which was necessary for a full three days. With winds over 20 miles per hour, we tucked ourselves away and got ahead on work while we waited for a calm weather window to finish out the rest of the North Channel. Come Wednesday morning, we lifted anchor at a bright and early 5am and crossed over 60 miles to Drummond Island, Michigan.

Upon crossing the border, all we had to do was pay a $35 fee and report our arrival on the CBP Roam app from our phones. We had a quick video call with one of the border patrol agents to show our faces and that was it! It was simple and efficient.

Looking ahead at the weather, we noticed we’d only have two more good days of weather before the wind picked up for at least a week. We made the most of those two days by stopping one night in the Les Cheneaux Islands before officially making it to mainland Michigan. Even with all the beauty we came across in the previous eight weeks, we were amazed to see how clear Michigan waters are. While anchored in Les Cheneaux, we could see the full rudder under the keel from our swim platform for the first time on the entire loop. It was hard to believe!

We wish we could have taken our own boat directly to Mackinac Island, but knowing the weather would pick up, we couldn’t risk getting stuck there for too long. We opted for the marina in Mackinaw City and took the ferry over to the island. Because we couldn’t take our own boat, we made the decision to splurge on a hotel and stay the night at Mission Point Resort — a dog-friendly hotel

so Ripley could join us too! This was well-worth it when 9 pm rolled around and no more day tourists were on the island. The streets cleared, the restaurants had space at their bars, and it felt as if we had the island to ourselves.

I can already tell you that Mackinac Island will be a top memory from our time on the loop. I remember learning about this midwest island in school, and knew I’d make a visit someday. It was everything I imagined it would be, and maybe even better! The charm of the historic architecture in each building, the old-school horse and carriages, and the stunning blue waters were just a few things that made you think you traveled back in time. A place untouched by modern technology and polluted waters.

We are happy to be tucked away in Mackinaw City as the weather turned up just as predicted. We will be docked here for over a week as we are heading to my sister’s wedding this upcoming weekend! A weekend away from the boat is always nerve-wracking, but it will be great to see family that we haven’t seen since departing on this journey.

Cheers to continuing the adventure!

BOAT SPOTLIGHT

By Ken Kreisler

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 57'2"

Beam: 16'6"

Draft: 4'6"

Weight: 73,171 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 634 gals.

Water Capacity: 171 gals.

Power: 2 x D8 IPS 800 Volvo

Base Price: Contact dealer

ABSOLUTEYACHTS.COM

DEALERS

Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales

St. Clair Shores, MI; Charlevoix, MI; Holland, MI; Grand Haven, MI; Spring Lake, MI; Chicago, IL; Marblehead, OH; Naples, FL JBYS.COM

CAbsolute 58 Navetta In harmony.

omfort, performance and livability combine aboard Absolute’s 58 Navetta, a big-volume, long range cruising yacht that leverages modern engineering to enable memorable travel, limited only by the imagination of her owners.

“The 58 Navetta is the perfect envelope for families to cruise extensively through the Great Lakes and beyond,” said Ron Silvia, partner and VP of sales at Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales. “The spacious layout and cabin accommodations, including ensuite heads, afford all guests with comfort for extended stays.”

Livability abounds throughout, with the bridge deck boasting three separate seating areas: forward and surrounding the centerline helm where a pair of L-shape couches await; amidships and to starboard with a C-shaped settee and dining table; and aft, where comfy lounges and a wet bar (or grill) makes entertaining a joy.

The main deck greets owners and their guests with breathtaking décor and designer touches surrounded by large, panoramic windows. The lower helm, with a pair of elevated, bolstered high-back captain’s chairs, sits to starboard and features a pair of large touchscreens and all the latest electronic equipment for safe and easy navigation. The salon abounds with inviting, comfortable seating options, with dining spaces and a full galley to port along with a wet bar.

Three staterooms belowdecks include the owners’ suite amidships, a VIP in the foredeck, a double berth to starboard plua a double crew berth aft accessed from the swim platform, all with ensuite heads and fine Italian finishings.

“From the visibility at the lower helm to the spacious bridge, the 58 Navetta is a no-compromise solution for those looking to have a lot of fun on the water,” says Silvia.

BOAT SPOTLIGHT

By Ken Kreisler

Riviera 4300 Sports Express

A reason to be stoked.

Since opening its doors in 1980, Riviera Yachts has impressed discriminating buyers all around the world with its relentless pursuit of meaningful innovation, quality craftsmanship, impressive safety standards and riveting performance. Taking that heritage to an all-new height is Riviera’s brilliant new 4300 Sports Express.

Powered by standard twin inboard 440-hp Volvo Penta D6 IPS 600s, or optional twin 480-hp IPS 650’s, the 4300 Sports Express is expected to top out at 30+ knots while delivering over-the-top luxury. This starts with a hydraulic swim platform for easy launch and retrieval of water toys or, when partially submerged, providing the ideal spot to stay cool in the summer sun.

The single-level salon and cockpit, with aft sunshade, offer abundant lounging and dining space with a hi-lo table that easily converts to a large sunbed. The helm, forward and to starboard,

offers a large console for adding a range of in-dash chartplotters, while a pair of bolstered pedestal chairs assure comfort and great visibility for the captain and the co-pilot.

Up front, the spacious bow boasts a large sunpad and deep well seating.

For those extended trips away from home, the 4300 Sports Express presents a beautiful owner’s stateroom, complete with an ensuite head. Guests enjoy the comfort of two spacious berths arranged in an aft cabin arrangement. Between them sits a large lounge with a galley and seating area.

“With the sports deck for lounging, dining and entertaining, a sun deck for relaxing at anchor and a sea deck for all your family water sports and overnight or longer accommodations, she comfortably sleeps five adults with a private master stateroom, aft cabin, lavish bathroom with separate shower, main galley and TV lounge,” says the firm.

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 45'6"

Beam: 14'7"

Draft: 4'

Weight: 34,167 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 316 gals.

Water Capacity: 105 gals.

Power: 2x Volvo Penta D6 IPS 650 @ 480-hp

Base Price: Contact dealer

RIVIERAAUSTRALIA.COM

BOAT SPOTLIGHT

By Ken Kreisler

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 37'1"

Beam: 11'

Weight: 19,000 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 300 gals.

Water Capacity: 20 gals.

Power: Twin Yamaha

450 hp XTO

Base Price: Contact dealer

WELDCRAFTMARINE.COM

DEALER

Reed Yacht Sales

REEDYACHTSALES.COM

TWeldcraft 340 Odyssey

There is a difference.

he Weldcraft 340 Odyssey is the perfect hard-core Great Lakes fishing machine,” says Brent Reed of Reed Yacht Sales. One look at this unique, heavy gauge, welded aluminum boat and you can only agree.

Engineered, designed and built in Clarkston, Washington since 1968, Weldcraft boats are built for the big water with extensive bow bracing and a backbone engineered for maximum strength and durability.

The flagship of the Weldcraft lineup, the 340 Odyssey shines with stunning performance thanks to its maximum power of twin Yamaha 5.6L, V8 XTO Offshore outboards delivering 900 horsepower in all. With its ample power and full reverse chine bottom, this is very much the serious angler’s dream boat.

“She offers a massive cockpit, a nice cabin to escape from the elements and full walkaround side decks,” said Reed.

The cabin features frameless bonded windows including a front-leaning windshield, slider side

windows and rear bulkhead windows. Four bench seats with footrests and storage underneath, along with port and starboard front helm seats with flip-up bolsters and suspension seat bases assure comfort in even big rollers. The cuddy is equipped with a head including an electric toilet and sink, along with a private sleeping berth.

The Weldcraft’s helm features Helm Master electronic steering, ZipWake trim control, a Garmin GPSmap 8616xsv 16-inch touchscreen MFD and other essential equipment. Options include dual LED spotlights, a rigging station with refrigerator and storage, a Wallas Spartan diesel heater, a Seakeeper 2 gyro, a bow thruster and a Garmin radar set.

“You really need to experience the Weldcraft 340 Odyssey’s seakeeping abilities,” says Reed. “It is truly second to none in the heavy gauge welded aluminum market, and an ideal offshore boat for the Great Lakes.”

BOAT SPOTLIGHT

By Ken Kreisler

World Cat 265DC-X

Cat on the prowl.

World Cat holds the distinction of being the largest power catamaran builder in the world thanks to models like its all-new 265 DC-X, a boat the Tarboro, North Carolina-based company bills as one which redefines performance.

Building on the success of the previous 260 DC-X, the new boat features a new layout that maximizes interior space and onboard comfort while maintaining its celebrated handling and stability.

“Our goal is to continue to push the limits with every new model we develop,” said VP of sales and marketing, Chad Armstrong.

This premium dual console comes jam-packed with features its owners will enjoy whether fishing, cruising or engaging in water sports. Its Corian bar and bait prep center, with tackle center aft of the double-wide starboard helm seat, is a great example. Forward on the bow, an optional table converts to a sun lounge with a

filler cushion, using the boat’s generous nine-foot beam to best advantage.

A port bench lies opposite the helm, which converts to an aft-facing seat by simply shifting the backrest. World Cat offers an insulated fish box here as well. The console is generous enough to conceal a full stand-up head compartment, served by a 10-gallon holding tank.

The stylish helm features a 12-inch Garmin touchscreen, 215 VHF and push button panel all under a fiberglass hardtop. Premium options including a full transom with fold-down 50-inch bench seat, a forward bow shade and JL Audio stereo with six speakers, allow owners to build the boat out exactly as they like.

A pair of fold-down seats along the transom also come standard, and augment the versatility of the stern casting deck.

If you are ready to take the step up to a cat, make sure this one is on your short list.

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 25'6"

Beam: 9'

Draft: 14"

Weight: 7,200 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 180 gals.

Water Capacity: 10 gals.

Power: 400 hp

Base Price: Contact dealer

WORLDCAT.COM

BOAT TEST

By Capt. Tom Serio

Rede ning yachting in a transformative way.

Avalon 65 Marlow

In a sometimes grey world punctuated by the commitments and pressures of our everyday lives, there comes a colorful splash, a yacht design that you know will leave a lasting mark and a new reason to feel alright with the world. It exemplifies a strategic shift perhaps, showing the build prowess of a yacht brand that can design out of the box. With the fanfare that’s already been generated, it’s evident that this latest offer from Marlow Yachts may need its own, new classification. Of course, I’m talking about the impressive Marlow Avalon 65.

This is an exciting new entry into the yachting world. A departure from the norm save for its signature lapstrake hull design, this Avalon 65 sports a unique hull finish of metallic Glacier Blue Awlgrip that gives off varying depths and tones based on its surrounding environment. With the superstructure finished in a lightly tinted Ice Blue Awlgrip with teal cap rails and boot stripe, the color scheme is what you make it.

If enamored by what Marlow can do with the color scheme, then you’ll be blown away by the design and layout of the rest of the yacht. Keep in mind, all of this comes in a 65-foot package that feels much bigger than its posted size.

All aboard

It all starts with an incredible main deck arrangement that makes single-handed or cruising couple operation utterly effortless. A true departure from previous Marlow models, the Avalon 65 features double doors leading to a glass-enclosed atrium lounge. This fabulous area will certainly be a favorite for guests with cozy L-shaped settees, teak tables and large, custom-curved windows that offer panoramic views from any seat.

With copious amounts of indoor and outdoor entertaining space, opening doors and windows blend these areas nicely when socializing while maintaining the option of keeping them separate for privacy as desired.

Expanding the open feel when entertaining or on those perfect weather days, the two aft windows flip up and dual doors open to expand the main deck. Inclement weather? Close it all up to keep the raw elements out while you continue to enjoy the atrium feel. It’s a huge enhancement in maximizing usable space at any time.

Stepping into the salon, it’s evident that a lot of thought went into making the most of this critically important space. An aft galley to the port side offers under-counter appliances, making it unobtrusive yet fully functional. Drawer-style fridges and freezers, a wine cooler, a three-burner gas stove, an undercounter oven and ample counterspace represent a step beyond what one typically sees in yachts of this size.

Smartly located to serve indoor and outdoor spaces with equal ease, the galley really is in the center of the floor plan. Situated right across from an inviting, L-shaped settee, it keeps owners and guests in close proximity, while the drop-down limo window aft allows plates and food to be easily passed to the atrium lounge.

Adding to the sense of openness is the Avalon’s full six feet, six inches of headroom. Combined with the full windows all around and port and starboard side Dutch doors, the salon space is uniquely open and spacious, with exceptional ventilation and visibility.

Marlow Avalon 65

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 73'8"

Beam: 19'6"

Draft: 4'2"

Displacement: 85,098 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 1,850 gals.

Water Capacity: 350 gals.

Power: Twin MAN V8 ,1200 hp diesel

Base MSRP: Contact Marlow

MARLOWMARINE.COM

DEALER

Marlow Marine Sales, Inc. 800-362-2657

MARLOWMARINE.COM

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Oval hull-side windows emphasize elegant, curved lines

Galley and salon blend together as one

Helm area well laid out Mezzanine atrium is a certain hit

Elegant interior woodwork is constructed of Sapele, a reddish hardwood sourced from Asia, which it utilized throughout the yacht. A day head is located in the starboard aft corner of the salon, reducing traffic to the lower accommodations.

The centerline helm station is elegantly styled with intricate curves, twin 22-inch Garmin multi-function displays and 7-inch MAN displays with critical engine data. Missing is the typical overhead row of switches and controllers which now reside in a side cabinet to give the helm a much cleaner and fresher look.

Contributing to that fresh

appearance is the massive, panoramic windshield stretching 12 feet wide and five feet high, delivering expansive and unobstructed views for the captain and guests alike. Triple wipers for those rainy days are a thoughtful touch.

Access to the flybridge is via a port staircase with floating steps that blend in nicely to the overall appearance. A large teak table flanked by dual L-shaped settees aft of the console offers commanding views in an open air deck.

Slumber time

As one would expect on a Marlow, the staterooms below are elegant, room, and accessed by a magnificent, curved staircase that really needs to be seen to be fully appreciated.

Forward in the peak is the VIP, including a large mattress with wings for sleeping comfort. Overhead, the raised ceiling has three forward oval windows framed by a large wood liner, adding to the yacht’s welcoming feel. A starboard guest stateroom has two single berths and convenient sink.

The full beam, mid-ship master with king berth also has large nightstands with fiddled edges, port side sofa and plenty of drawers and lockers. That means grab your clothes, because this yacht wants to cruise.

Flooring throughout consists of satin bamboo and ebony woods that emphasize residential comfort.

One particularly versatile area is the aft beach club/tender storage/crew quarters. With a large garage door that hinges up to protect from sun or rain, there’s plenty of room for chairs and water toys. A moveable deck extends across the swim platform for loading of the tender. And the couch and berth can provide a suitable crew quarters, or just a nice place for the kids to hang out.

A class of its own

So the Avalon 65 is beautiful. Befitting its name plate, it’s also a performer. The Avalon’s elegant hull delivers the expected smooth stable ride one expects from a Marlow. Not only is there minimal bow rise during acceleration, but the Avalon sits flat and responds immediately to wheel commands, displaying impressive tracking and a stable, balanced attitude even when swinging the wheel at 30 knots. With its sharp entry and wide, flared bow, the Avalon 65 really slices the water and stays true thanks to the hull design and strut keels.

I’m told that David Marlow invested about five years into the design and build of the Avalon 65, making sure every aspect was perfect. And why not? This yacht was built for he and his wife to enjoy. David didn’t skimp or build just another Marlow. This is a special yacht, and so much so that it really does deserve a new classification.

During my sea trial time with the Avalon, Eric Gervais, sales director at Marlow Marine, agreed this yacht is so much more than just an elegant, long-range cruiser. After many ideas, we decided the Avalon 65 should be classified as Grand Cru, a French term from the wine world meaning the best of the best. Because, really, that’s what this yacht is all about.

David Marlow is always about being the best, and his masterpiece Marlow Avalon 65 exceeds that measure in every way.

BOAT TEST

By Capt. Tom Serio

DOUBT NO MORE

FORMULA’S 360 CROSSOVER BOWRIDER CAN’T HELP BUT DELIGHT.

I’m a natural doubter. You have to show me something for me to believe in it. And no, I’m not from Missouri, whose unofficial slogan is The Show Me State, though it is fitting that my given first name and skeptical nature fit with the phrase doubting Thomas.

This occurred to me as I was perusing Formula’s website for details on its new 360 Crossover Bowrider, or CBR for short. The website described the boat as having an open bow with a generously sized main deck and cockpit space, which was all evident enough by the images. But it also talked about having a spacious cabin below. What?! A cabin in a bowrider? I thought the marketing team at Formula made a major goof there since, while there are models out there that have a head or small sleeping space tucked under the console, a bona-fide, truly spacious cabin is a whole other matter. So I had my doubts.

Fast forward a few days and I met up with Vic Spellberg, my go-to guy for all questions Formula and captain for my sea trial. He’s like a walking encyclopedia, who always gives it to me straight. When I shared my reservations about this boat having a legitimate cabin Vic not only assured me that there was one onboard, but added I would be surprised by its size and layout. So, after fueling up and venting out, he invited me onboard to let doubting Thomas see for himself.

The access doorway is blended into the neat design of the helm, and accessed through a sturdy door that latches to the helm console so solidly that there are no vibrations whatsoever when underway. When swung open, it reveals a three-step ladder with Corian steps for easy maintenance and color coordinating. And sure enough, stepping below I was genuinely surprised and impressed at what Formula was able to do with this space.

Maximizing storage capacity with an inspired layout, Formula has delievered magic. With appliances on the port side, including microwave, drawer fridge and dedicated storage for a slide-out coffee maker, the sink with hot and cold water sits opposite to starboard.

Forward is the door to the full head with VacuFlush toilet (served by a 36-gallon holding tank, no less) as well as the stand-up shower and vanity, featuring low-maintenance Corian counters and a custom molded sink. Strategically placed in the peak to better utilize the taper of the hull, the result is more storage here than what you would find in most other boats of this size range.

Aft midship, under the main deck, a full-sized berth with storage awaits. It’s a generous enough space you really can stretch out without feeling cramped. A lounge seat to starboard offers the ideal spot for savoring that first morning coffee in privacy. Wood-grain flooring, Ultrafabric materials and a cedar-lined hanging locker add to the homey feel. And yes, I’m still writing about a bowrider. So now I get it, they did a truly great job.

OUTSIDE LIVING

Because the 360 CBR truly is a bowrider at heart, Formula invested a lot of effort toward maximizing the onboard experience in its main deck spaces. Access to the bow, with its near full wrap-around seating, is via a fold-back windshield and door to the port side of the asymmetrical windshield. Dedicated bow cushions allow buyers to easily convert the entire space into a giant sunpad if that’s what they desire.

Midships on the main deck is a portside settee that faces the starboard-side helm, which with its own triple-wide helm seat creates an inviting social space. Moving aft, an outdoor galley to port comes complete with a grill, sink and a drawer-style refrigerator. For safety, materials above the grill are fire retardant; when not in use, the sink and grill are covered with a Corian filler adding to the usable counterspace.

Overhead, twin sunroofs open to flood the boat with fresh air and natural light.

The boat’s social hub is the U-shaped cockpit lounge, positioned immediately aft of the helm seat and facing further seating to port. There’s a dedicated self-draining storage spot for the Yeti Tundra 35 cooler, which is a thoughtful and welcome bonus. Drop-in twin tables create a useful and spacious central dining area.

Once mealtime concludes, this space can also convert to a sunning and lounging area with removable filler cushions.

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 36'

Beam: 11'3"

Draft: 3'6"

Displacement: 18,000 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 200 gals.

Water Capacity: 36 gals.

Power: Twin Mercury 8.2L 380 HP sterndrives

Base Price: $868,720

Price as Tested: $1,016,600 FORMULABOATS.COM

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Port-side boarding door.

Racing style helm with Raymarine touchscreen multi-function displays and push button switches installed in a liquid black dash.

Ample handles/grabrails for stability.

Dry Harbour Marine DRYHARBOURMARINE.COM

Lakeside Formula LAKESIDEFORMULA.COM

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Consider a splash cover over the generator to reduce any water intrusion.

FORMULA 360 CBR

Haven’t yet had your fill of the sun? Step through the elegant transom gate where a triple-wide, aft-facing sun lounge with multi-position backrests awaits. It’s the ideal spot to dry off after a swim.

SPORTY DRIVE

It’s great having all of these creature comforts, but this is a Formula after all, with performance in its DNA.

The 360 CBR rides on Formula’s patented FAS3Tech ventilated stepped hull for optimum control at even very low RPM and enhanced performance and seaworthiness at high speeds. As the throttles are pushed forward, the hull gets up and out of the water, as evident by watching the speed increase without giving any further throttle. With a fairly sharp entry, the boat slices through waves and we cruised effortlessly at 30 mph in a slight ocean chop. This configuration of twin Mercury 8.2L MAG 380 horsepower sterndrives tops out at nearly 50 mph, an exhilarating ride indeed — and especially for a boat with a full cabin below.

Formula has passed its design torch from their long-time in-house designer John Adams, in place since 1971, to Michael Young, who has roots in the design of F1 race cars. That styling is most notable on the hull, with a sheer line that rises as it goes aft, teardrop air intake scoops to maximize air flow to the engine room and a low-profile raked, curved windscreen reminiscent of those on race cars. Indeed the 360 CBR drives like a sports car, and it is a lot of fun being behind the wheel.

Formula’s attention to detail shines throughout, with details like precision stitching, piping and color accents in the seating, going the extra mile to use three different types of foam in the seats to maximize comfort, the thoughtful inclusion of storage cabinets and drawers everywhere, the concealed windlass and anchor gear, dedicated storage for filler cushions, AC systems for the cabin (8,000 BTU) and cockpit (16,000 BTU), a gas generator (7.5 kW), a SureShade electric awning that extends over the cockpit, a further sunshade for the bow, and lots more. With its sterndrives, Formula is able to offer a large integrated swim platform with a cool, electrically operated swim step to facilitate getting in and out of the water.

Once you see the Formula 360 CBR, you will have no doubt that Formula not only included a cabin on this boat, but also raised the level of enjoyment and comfort for yachts in this size class.

Doubting Thomas? Not anymore. Formula’s 360 CBR is a true delight.

By Craig Ritchie

SOLAR-POWERED BOAT LIFTS

It’s easy to understand why everyone loves boat lifts.

By raising the boat clear of the water when it’s not in use, lifts protect boats from waves and wakes more effectively than traditional fenders and dock whips can. Lifts completely eliminate the need for anti-fouling paint on hulls, and they utterly dispense with any concerns about the boat’s bottom becoming carpeted with algae or zebra mussels when it’s not in use. With the hull stowed clear of the water, lifts greatly reduce wear on submerged engine components through galvanic corrosion. And best of all, lifts represent one of the best theft deterrents out there, since it’s so much harder for thieves to steal a boat that’s stowed on a locked platform than one that’s simply tied the dock with a humble rope.

But boat lifts need power to operate, and that’s always been a bit of a barrier to their more widespread adoption. Understandably, some people simply aren’t comfortable with the idea of having a high voltage power feed anywhere near their dock. And for others, and especially owners of homes and cottages set in remote locations, simply having enough power to begin with is a problem in itself. A low-amperage or sketchy power feed that’s prone to periodic interruptions just won’t cut the mustard.

But a new series of boat lifts aim to change all of that.

The ultimate dock upgrade.

A new way of thinking

Sunstream, the Seattle-area company that introduced the world’s first freestanding hydraulic boat lift back in 1996, says it makes two boat lifts designed expressly for locations with dodgy power supplies, or no power at all.

Described as the industry’s first rotary hydraulic boat lift, the company’s Helix-P uses a high-efficiency, battery-powered electric motor that’s kept constantly charged by a compact solar panel. Ditching traditional lift architecture for some impressive modern engineering, the Helix-P doesn’t require a high-power electrical feed, and can operate just fine in locations with no AC power whatsoever. That means there’s no fear of electrical fixtures getting wet at the dock, no expense of having to hire an electrician to install the device and no ongoing electricity bill to operate it. Because the Helix runs on a battery charged by a solar panel, it’s immune to even total power outages. It’s also well suited to remote sites like island cottages, which may not have power at all.

“The Helix-P lets us serve customers who otherwise wouldn’t be able to use a boat lift,” says Sunstream founder and CEO, Ken Hey. “The hydraulic design of the Helix-P is extremely energy efficient so it can run on a battery. It’s also quiet, so you’re less likely to disturb anyone when heading out early in the morning, and far quicker than a traditional cable lift so you can raise or lower the boat in seconds rather than minutes.”

The Helix-P comes in sizes to accommodate vessels up to 24,000 pounds, with larger models capable of handling vessels up to 48,000 pounds under development. Lifting height is up to a substantial 15 feet, so it works perfectly even on docks positioned along steeply sloping shorelines.

The device is operated with a small, floating remote control that’s similar to an automotive key fob. Pushing its up or down keys raises or lowers the lift accordingly, making operation as simple as it gets.

It’s also possible to operate the Helix-P from anywhere in the world by using a companion cell phone app. Halfway home and realise you forgot to raise the lift? As long as you have a cell signal, it’s no problem at all. An optional add-on can even automatically deploy an optional automatic boat cover to protect the vessel’s interior from weather and bird droppings while you’re away.

Bar none

Joining the Helix-P is Sunstream’s new LiftBar boat lift, which adds a regenerative braking-like power management capability similar to that used in electric cars. The LiftBar only uses battery power to raise the boat, allowing gravity to lower it. As it descends, the built-in regenerative braking feature captures energy, helping to further recharge the unit’s battery.

The LiftBar also differs in using planetary gears and an integral screw jack housed inside an aluminum tube to provide the lifting power, rather than the traditional cables. This not only reduces its overall size, says Hey, it eliminates the need for vertical posts, which some home or cottage owners may find unattractive. It also contributes to the LiftBar being quick and almost completely silent in operation. Available in five sizes, the LiftBar can accommodate vessels up to a healthy 32,000 pounds. A powerful 12 horsepower electric motor allows it to lower or raise boats at a rate of 10 feet per minute — far more quickly than traditional cable lifts. And like the Helix-P, the LiftBar can run solely on a battery charged by a solar panel. What’s more, it works with both fixed and floating docks. By holding parked vessels clear of the water, lifts protect boats from damage and theft — all while keeping them ready for use in minutes. By eliminating the cost and safety concerns of having a high voltage power feed at the water, next-generation solar lifts represent the ultimate way of protecting vessels from yachts to personal watercraft, and enhance our time at the water.

FEATURE

By Heather Steinberger

A GREAT LAKES LEGEND TURNS

CELEBRATING THE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY OF LYMAN BOATS.

150

Great stories often start with humble beginnings.

Remember Peter Parker, a shy, working-class high school student being raised by an aunt and uncle, or Steve Rogers, a slight, sickly kid who wanted to stand up to bullies during the Great Depression.

These seemingly ordinary boys transformed into Spider-Man and Captain America, proving that even the most unassuming origins can lead to greatness.

That’s not only true for people. One small boat company, launched on the Great Lakes 150 years ago, would chart a similar course. Through a mix of ingenuity, opportunity and hard work, it would become a legend.

This is the story of Lyman Boats.

FROM HUMBLE ROOTS

Today, recreational boating enthusiasts associate the Lyman name with Sandusky, Ohio, but the venerable boat company actually got its start nearly 70 miles away in Cleveland. There, in 1875, German immigrant brothers Bernard and Herman Lyman had an idea.

“They were cabinetmakers and avid outdoorsmen, and they wanted to go fishing offshore in Lake Erie,” said Tom “Doc Lyman” Koroknay, a Lyman Boats expert and author of the 2004 book Lyman Boats: Legend of the Lakes. “So, they built a skiff. They used lapstrake construction — one plank lapped over another like siding on a house — which allows flex as the boat goes over the waves. They used clinch nails to fasten the planks.”

With local interest growing in their clinker-built watercraft, the brothers started a livery on the Cleveland waterfront. Soon Lyman Brothers Boat Builders was producing a variety of rowboats and sailboats ideally suited to Lake Erie’s notoriously challenging waters.

They started with utility and fishing boats and gradually moved up to larger pleasure craft. Although Lyman Brothers Boat Builders was forced to leave the waterfront in 1916, likely due to local World War I mobilization efforts, the move inland resulted in the construction of more small, outboard-powered boats. Their affordability broadened the company’s market.

Then, in 1928, Sandusky came calling. Like many communities, the city was actively developing its industrial base in the early 20th century and sought to boost its reputation for economic health.

“The city lured them with five acres right on the bay,” Koroknay said. “That’s where they became legendary.”

THE GOLDEN ERA

Renamed Lyman Boat Works and with Bernard Lyman’s eldest son William ‘Bill’ Lyman at the helm, the business moved to First Street in Sandusky. The company resumed production of powerboats and sailboats, with their first vessel coming off the line in January 1929.

Just nine months later, the Great Depression arrived with Black Thursday on October 24, 1929. To survive, the company focused on building larger custom

cruisers for its wealthy clientele, as well as durable trap-net boats for local commercial fishermen.

By 1937, it was even able to expand its manufacturing with a new 18,000-square-foot facility. That came in handy when the next major storm arrived: World War II.

“Lyman honed their mass production skills for the war effort,” Koroknay said. “They started using marine-grade plywood instead of solid mahogany, because they had to build fast to fulfill the war contracts.”

Competitors like Chris-Craft and Gar Wood also shifted from recreational to wartime production. During the war years, Lyman built military craft that included 24-foot personnel boats and pontoons that were used to support floating bridges.

When World War II ended, the recreational boat market came roaring back, and Lyman Boat Works boomed. Its reputation for high-quality lapstrake craftsmanship spread across the nation, and a golden era began.

“In 1955 alone, Lyman built 5,000 boats,” said Koroknay. “They went through one million square feet of marine-grade plywood that year. That’s 41,000 sheets. Not bad for 350 employees.”

“Even at its biggest, it was not a giant company,” agreed Molly Sampson, executive director at the Maritime Museum of Sandusky. “It had a hometown, tight-knit feel, even during peak production, and the boats were still hand-crafted, even with assembly-line technology.”

Celebrated for decades on the Great Lakes for their distinctive styling and durable, high-quality lapstrake

design, Lyman Boats surged in popularity nationwide as the 1950s progressed. The company focused on outboard-powered models to meet strong demand, and a dealer network blossomed from coast to coast.

“Although most Lymans were on Lake Erie, there were dealerships in 40-plus states and Puerto Rico by the mid-1950s,” Koroknay said. “The hull design is really what set it apart. The Lyman name became synonymous with lapstrake.”

THE DECLINE AND DOC LYMAN

As with so many things, the good times wouldn’t last forever. Some boatbuilders began experimenting with fiberglass in the 1950s, and by the 1960s, a revolution took hold — while Lyman continued building with wood.

“Bill Lyman died in 1952 at 69 years of age,” Koroknay said. “His widow and son-in-law took over, and they were reluctant to get into fiberglass. Had Bill been able to continue another 20 years, who knows what might have happened.”

Lyman Boat Works ultimately did make the shift to fiberglass, in 1972, but by then it was too late. The company ceased wood boat production in 1973.

It continued with a series of owners over the next 18 years, but by 1991, the doors closed for good.

“I bought the pre-1973 wood operation,” Koroknay said. “The patterns, archives, photos, tooling, jigs, trademark — everything came to my place.”

Built on the Great Lakes for the Great Lakes, Lyman made a wide range of boats.

Tom “Doc Lyman” Koroknay

A NEW GENERATION OF LYMAN BOATS

For Lyman Boats, the Roaring ’20s have returned — this time in the 2020s. Chippewa Boatworks, a subsidiary of Benchmark Craftsmen, is reviving the brand in Seville, Ohio.

“They licensed the Lyman name from me, and are currently building a 16.5-foot hull in three different configurations, with a 23-foot model in development,” said Tom “Doc Lyman” Koroknay. “The design of these new boats is based on the classic Lyman designs, incorporating modern innovations in boatbuilding techniques. They’re all-wooden boats, just like the originals, and the craftsmanship is incredible.”

Current builds are powered by a 50-horsepower Mercury four-stroke engine, with a 70-horsepower option available.

To learn more about the next generation of Lyman Boats, visit CHIPPEWABOATWORKS.COM or THELYMAN.COM.

Koroknay is a native Ohioan, born and raised in Mansfield. He spent many happy childhood hours fishing, boating and swimming thanks to a family cottage on Lake Erie. “There were Lymans all over the place when I was a kid,” he says.

A third-generation woodworker and an experienced home builder, Koroknay started working on Lymans in 1979. By the mid-’80s, he was operating a full-time boat restoration business called Koroknay’s Marine Woodworking, now known as Lyman Boats LLC, and became known far and wide as Doc Lyman.

“Over the years, I did everything from planking, stems, knees and transoms to new decks and windshields,” he said. “Lots of guys can do paint and varnish, but when it comes to structural elements, you need help. It’s challenging, skilled work and these days, we have a shortage of people who can do it.”

KEEPING THE LEGEND ALIVE

Over the years, Koroknay has provided information and artifacts to museums across the country. He also has amassed a collection of Lyman Boats representing every decade of production from the 1920s to the 1960s, plus one special rowing skiff dating to the late 1800s or early 1900s.

“No one knows for sure, because the factory records only go back to 1929 when they moved to Sandusky,” he explained. “But it’s very old. There’s only one other Lyman I can think of that comes even close. It’s at a museum in Michigan, but unfortunately its hull number was sanded off. Mine has the earliest number I know of.”

Koroknay also has several other prewar boats, an early fiberglass model and a prized 1967 26-foot Lyman Cruisette. Billed as an economical weekender, it features a V-berth, convertible dinette and small galley.

Lymans continue to attract interest from boaters across multiple generations.

“It’s the pinnacle of single-screw inboard design in my opinion,” he said. “It’s a great rough-water boat, perfect for a couple or a small family. We raised two kids on one, before we got our cottage.”

“At the museum, so many people share their personal connections and nostalgia,” Sampson said. “They tell us they had a Lyman as their family boat when they were kids.”

“It was a local build, and it was like a member of the family,” she continued. “Everyone had a Lyman — not because it was a collector’s item, but because that’s just what you had.”

Now, of course, Lymans are a cultural icon, and there are many hundreds if not thousands of them left. They are highly sought after, with active owners associations, informal rendezvous events and restoration projects throughout the Great Lakes region and beyond.

At the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, visitors can see a 1965 hardtop sleeper model, with a video of boating around Sandusky Bay — something Sampson calls “weatherproof boating.” The museum also showcases a 1955 runabout in its original crate, and the drafting table of Tony Giovagnoli, Lyman’s lead designer.

“It’s neat to see his workspace in the same condition as it was the day he retired in the 1970s,” Sampson said. “You can even see the ring from his coffee mug.”

In addition, the museum is home to an important Lyman restoration project: a rare prewar 24-foot Lyman Custom Runabout named Gull. Constructed between 1937 and 1940, it once belonged to Oscar Lay, vice president of Lay Brothers Fisheries.

The boat features Lyman’s signature lapstrake hull — clinker-built with solid mahogany planks — and twin six-cylinder 103-horsepower Gray Marine

Lyman Boats LLC: LYMANBOAT.COM

Lyman Boat Owners Association: LYMANBOA.COM Maritime Museum of Sandusky: SANDUSKYMARITIME.ORG

Phantom engines. Classic Marine of Vickery, Ohio, is handling the restoration project.

“We purchased the boat in July 2023, and lead donors Bob and Cindy Grimm funded the restoration,” Sampson said. “The previous owner is the third owner of the boat and sometimes pops over. They’re supportive and a great friend of the museum.”

A “mid-restoration unveiling” of Gull took place at the Lakeside Wooden Boat Show in July. The museum is planning to have the fully restored boat in the water during the 2026 boating season.

Koroknay has also been busy during Lyman’s 150th anniversary year, showcasing vintage boats, original blueprints and other artifacts at the Progressive Cleveland Boat Show in January and leading forums at the 61st Annual Antique Boat Show and Auction at the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY in August. The museum dedicated its 2025 show to celebrating 150 years of Lyman Boats.

Today, Koroknay primarily focuses on parts, but he said he remains dedicated to his company’s mission: to keep the Lyman legend alive.

“Lyman is one of the oldest boat manufacturers in the United States, and its legacy is right up there with ChrisCraft,” he said, noting that Chris Smith was building small boats in 1874 but didn’t start his boatbuilding enterprise in Algonac, Michigan, until 1922. “These are the finest boats on the Great Lakes, with such highquality craftsmanship and such a legendary ride.”

Visitors to the Maritime Museum of Sandusky can witness the restoration of the prewar 24-foot Lyman Custom Runabout Gull.

PORT OF CALL

By Felicia Schneiderhan

Wonderful Wild&

Brockway Mountain

Wonderful

Find the perfect outing for the water lover, the history buff and the outdoor enthusiast on Lake Superior’s Keweenaw Peninsula.

It’s the middle of a cold winter night. I’m riding shotgun in my fiancé’s 1980 Delta 88 (aka the ‘Landboat’) as we travel to his home in Upper Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. I had never heard of the UP and as the hours wore on, I thought I could understand why. It was dark, it seemed desolate, and it had no cell reception. I promptly drifted off to sleep — only to be awoken sometime later by the glare of flood lamps and the roar of chainsaws.

Welcome to Houghton — doorway to the Keweenaw Peninsula, and home to Michigan Tech University. It was the eve of the annual winter carnival, and the engineering students were out in full force putting the finishing touches on massive ice sculptures and castles. I knew right away that this place was unlike any I had ever visited before.

In the 20 years since (married, three kids, liveaboards on a 1980 Marine Trader trawler, Mazurka), the Keweenaw has confirmed this, over and over again.

Today, while this once-secret Giche-Gami island has become renowned for its excellent outdoor recreation, it’s also stayed a unique wilderness for visitors. Whether by water or land, heading into the Keweenaw Peninsula is good at all times of the year.

For the water lover

The Keweenaw is technically an island, united between Houghton and Hancock by the Portage Canal lift bridge. Boaters will find multiple marinas, both municipal and private, in the sister cities and all along the rocky shoreline; Ontonagon, Houghton, Hancock, Eagle Harbor, Copper Harbor, Munising, and Marquette all provide amenities for the private boater.

Water lovers traveling over land will find plenty of ways to get their fix. And since you’re on land, you can venture a bit below the Keweenaw, where the rest of the UP offers some amazing tours.

Alyson and Leo Jewett of Duluth enjoy the area so much they’ve returned with their now seven-year-old son, Kameron, to explore different sites each time, and return to some old favorites — especially Big Spring in Manistique, with crystal clear waters 40 feet deep. It’s fed by natural underground springs and stays at a constant temperature year-round, so it never freezes. This year, the Jewetts took a pulley raft into the spring for a stellar view of the water, fish and churning sand bottom. “It’s a special place that has a sense of awe,” she says.

On the same trip, the Jewett family stopped in Munising for the glass bottom boat shipwreck tour, especially exciting for their son to see two different shipwrecks below. The tour also explored the sandstone cliffs and caves and the lighthouse of Grand Island.

Lighthouse lovers will not be disappointed by the Keweenaw. If you have to choose just one, visit the iconic red brick Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, which still shines as a critical guide for navigating the peninsula’s rocky shoreline. The tour is up close and personal, giving visitors a good sense of the daily lives of the historical keepers.

For the history buff

The name for the peninsula comes from the Lake Superior Chippewa word, Kee-wi-wainon-ing, meaning ‘place where portage is made.’ The Chippewa reportedly came into the area in the 1600s, which was then occupied by the Eastern Dakota people. The French arrived not long after, followed by more European settlers attracted by the rich natural resources. The mid-19th century saw the discovery of the world’s purest copper, bringing more immigrants, particularly from Cornwall (who brought their hearty pasties with them). At one time the small town of Calumet was the center of the Keweenaw mining district and published newspapers in multiple languages. Now, the region is known for its large Finnish and Italian communities. Visitors will find a treasure trove of historical resources and preserved buildings to explore.

Quincy Copper Mine, in Hancock, will appeal to anyone interested in historic mines. “It gives you the foundation for the whole Keweenaw peninsula history, since the geography and copper mining industry are what shaped the entire culture of the Keweenaw,” says Alyson Jewett. “We heard the story of when the mine was in operation and got a first-hand look at what the miners endured every day to provide for their families. The cog wheel tram ride down the hill to the mine entrance was an added element of fun.”

Another historical must-see is Fort Wilkins Historical State Park near Copper Harbor, at the northern tip of the peninsula. Wander through Civil War-era buildings at the remote

Eagle Harbor Lighthouse

Quincy Copper Mine

Fort Wilkins State Park

Mendota entryway to Lac La Belle

Portage Canal Lift Bridge

Houghton Marina

Houghton Hancock

Eagle Harbor Copper Harbor

Ashland L’Anse

Keweenaw Autumn Perfection

If there’s only one thing to do in late September, take the 10-mile drive up Brockway Mountain. Every curve will have you oohing and aaahing at the heart-stopping views of the big lake. On a crisp fall day, you can even see as far as Isle Royale. Picnickers will want their baskets, and mountain bikers will definitely want their bike for the ride down.

If you get there before mid-October, make sure to stop by the nearby Jampot, run by the monks of the Holy Protection Monastery, known for its many gourmet wild berry creations, especially the much-coveted thimbleberry – as unique as the Keweenaw Peninsula itself.

Bete Gris Beach

Eagle River Falls Winter Carnival

Cliff View Trail Trail Fest

fort. Make sure to bake bread in the baker’s house and watch the doctor re-enactment outside the hospital, complete with details to make adults squirm and kids scream. The working canon is one of the best parts. If you camp in the park, get your reservations early in the season, as spots tend to fill up fast.

For the outdoor adventurer

You may want to bring your bikes, because more than 90 miles of single-track mountain biking in the Keweenaw are simply first-class fun. In Copper Harbor alone there are almost 40 miles of trail through diverse Lake Superior wilderness and terrain, which is why the tiny town is home to an epic Trail Fest in late August every year. Marquette is another Mecca for mountain biking with its trail festival each June.

And if you’re into the outdoors from a more cultural point of view, come earlier in August for Copper Harbor’s annual Art in the Park weekend. Make sure to stop by Grandpa’s Barn, one of the best independent bookstores in the region. You may just meet an author and illustrator hanging out on the front porch, ready to chat you up. The owner, Lloyd Wescoat, will know just the book you’re looking for — even if you’ve never heard of it.

Hiking and swimming? The options are endless. If you have to narrow it down, try Cliff View Trail at Mount Bohemia. Under two hours and somewhat easy, it’s a joy with its jaw-dropping views, but bring bug repellant. Afterward, take a gorgeous swim from the beach at Bete Gris, near beautiful Lac la Belle.

If you’re looking for more of a stroll, Alyson Jewett recommends the walk out to Black Rocks in Marquette’s Presque Isle Park. “We did it on a weekday morning when they close the road loop around the park to vehicles and leave it accessible to pedestrians,” she says. “There were beautiful views of Lake Superior, large rocks to explore, and access points to the lake on rocky shores. It is a popular cliff jumping spot, but it was quiet when we visited in the cooler misty morning.”

For those kids who love the outdoors and a really good playground, Houghton’s Chutes and Ladders is top of the list. It’s so much fun even the adults won’t want to leave.

“At sunset we visited the Portage Canal, and the Chutes and Ladders park along the water,” she says. “Our seven-year-old had a blast running, climbing and sliding down the large chutes. It took some bravery to overcome his nerves with the longest slide, finally letting go at the top just to jump out at the bottom and rush to do it again.

After, they walked along the water to see the Portage Lake Lift Bridge and the steep hills of Hancock on the other side. As a family, they also enjoyed geocaching in the Keweenaw, which brings a new element to finding hidden gems everywhere. “Geocaches add an element of fun and challenge along the way, and brings you to even more places you might not find otherwise,” she says.

And in many of those places, you might not have cell reception, but that merely forces a little more adventure. You have to trust the road, look a little harder at a map, pull over at a random stop. It’s fun to discover things along the way like waterfalls, beaches, and beautiful overlooks. It’s a beautiful place that wants you to slow down and enjoy the adventure.

Thinking back to my first visit to the Keweenaw on the cold winter night, and all the things my family has seen and done since that first visit, I’d be remiss not to mention the outdoor extravaganza of winter that many find here (check out the Keweenaw County Snow Gauge to see just how much snow is waiting for you. The region gets between 200 and 300 inches of snow each year). You’ll find snowmobiling, fat tire biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing options to enjoy, or you can try your hand at climbing a frozen waterfall at the annual Munising Ice Fest, where elite and novice climbers alike ascend the varied routes of Pictured Rocks.

In early March, the annual CopperDog sled race will see more than 350 dogs racing through the Keweenaw. And of course, you can always just cozy up to a fire somewhere nice and warm, sip a strong cup of Finnish coffee, eat a pasty with ketchup, and read that book you bought at Grandpa’s Barn last summer.

And if you’re ever cruising into Houghton on a cold winter night to the welcome roar of chainsaws, stick around because the annual winter carnival is an outdoor festival not to be missed.

LAKESHORE LIFE

By Abby Thorpe

ADDRESS

9405 Pine Lake Road

East Jordan, MI 49727

SPECS

Bedrooms: 5

Baths: 3 full, 2 half

Square Footage: 3,200

Acreage: 1.3

Water Frontage: 111 ft.

Price: $2,399,000

CONTACT

Pat O’Brien

Pat O’Brien & Associates Real Estate 231-675-6677

PATOBRIEN.COM

TEast Jordan, Michigan

Cottage charm in the Club at Lake Pointe.

ucked along the south shore of Lake Charlevoix in the exclusive Club at Lake Pointe community, this charming whitewashed bungalow looks straight out of a storybook. Light, bright interiors with thoughtful design features offer a relaxing, peaceful space to get away and enjoy the lakeside. Five bedrooms, three full baths and two half baths complete the spacious 3,154 square-foot main home, while a bunk room above the garage with a bathroom is ideal for guests and overflow space.

“With five bedrooms, you’ll be in good company during Northern Michigan summers. The newly finished bunk room is a cut above with four custom built-in bunks, a full bathroom, lounge area and timeless cottage style,” says listing agent Pat O’Brien.

Cottage-style finishes add to the charm of this lake home, with a large open kitchen, plenty of windows to let in the natural light and capture lake views, and a beautiful stone fireplace ideal for cozy autumn nights.

A screened-in porch opens to the large lakeside deck,

offering spectacular views from sunrise to sunset. The peaceful, private backyard features a natural landscape, with 1.3 acres offering space to soak up lakeside living. Head down the path to 111 feet of water frontage, your own private dock and boat lift — the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

An additional detached garage provides more space for water toys, boats and storage, making this home ideal for all season living as well as a summer vacation destination. Head out on the lake for a water-based adventure, end the evening by the outdoor firepit, or enjoy the bustle and charm of Boyne City, East Jordan and Charlevoix just a short drive away.

“Built in 2013, this home is designed for making memories at the cottage, and with Lake Charlevoix just steps from the back porch, it’s sure hard to leave, but you can take the memories with you,” adds O’Brien.

Welcome to your private retreat on beautiful Lake Charlevoix!

BOAT BIZ

By Craig Ritchie

FEverything old is new again

Step back to the future with Starcraft’s ’57 Ski Champ.

rom cars to home furnishings to cameras and apparel, retro is very much in style these days as aging baby boomers and Gen Z alike affirm their appreciation for heritage and authenticity. Retro-styled Mustangs, Camaros and Challengers recall the past as surely as classic Kitchenaids, Eames lounge chairs and music on vinyl.

Everything old is new again in boats, too. Founded way back in 1903, Starcraft has introduced more than its share of iconic designs over the years, including the legendary 1957 Ski Champ runabout. Replete with Cadillac-inspired fins and plenty of polished chrome, the Ski Champ reigned among the most popular runabouts of its day thanks to its then-modern 1950s styling, high build quality and an affordable price tag.

And now, it’s back.

The reissued 1957 Ski Champ is completely faithful to the original design with the exception

of a modern outboard for greater reliability –painted to match, of course. Starcraft’s Peter Barrett says the eye-grabbing vessel is otherwise authentic in every way, including a dashboard that’s utterly devoid of electronics or gauges of any kind.

“We just made a handful of boats to use in our boat show displays as a way of highlighting our company history. The Ski Champ recalls an iconic period for our company, and for America,” he says. “We never intended to sell them or put them into production. But at every show we went to, people kept trying to buy them. So we decided to produce a limited edition reissue, with the goal of keeping the boat as authentic as possible. And, like the original, affordable.”

With a sticker price of just under $20,000 complete with its 25 horsepower outboard and a painted trailer, those in search of a genuine classic better move quickly, because this limited edition won’t be around for long.

The 2026s Are On The Way!

WISCONSIN: 920-743-6526

• Mark Felhofer: 920-495-5567 or mjf@baymarine.net

• Chris DePrey: 920-366-4320 or chrismd@baymarine.net

• Bill Carlson: 906-202-0014 or bcarlson@baymarine.net

• Rob Tess: 920-495-2173 or rtess@baymarine.net

advantage of the HOT pre-owned boat

ILLINOIS: 847-336-2628

• Matt Felhofer: 920-495-7125 or mpf@baymarine.net

• Ron Durchin: 847-980-4975 or rdurchin@baymarine.net

• Gentre Vartan: 312-656-4470 or gvartan@baymarine.net

MICHIGAN: 616-604-0234

• Brian Gill: 616-604-0234 or briang@baymarine.net

• Adam Lamb: 616-889-6870 or adam@baymarine.net

• Tyler Palazzolo: 616-604-0234 or tpalazzolo@baymarine.net

• Sara Bromley: 231-299-5930 or sbromley@baymarine.net

OHIO: 216-644-9366

• Norm Baur: 216-644-9366 or nbaur@baymarine.net

• Will Kruger: 330-606-7593 or wkruger@baymarine.net

• Sky Mielke: 419-656-4882 or smielke@baymarine.net

2021 REGAL 23 OBX Great family boat! Yamaha

250 outboard, Bimini Top, Mooring Cover, Garmin Chartplotter, Fusion Bluetooth Stereo w/cockpit speakers and porta potty. Clean and in turnkey condition! Asking $74,900. Call Chuck Hutchins @734-497-3721. RYS

2024 RANGER TUGS R-27 LUXURY EDITION 100% Freshwater, low hours. Yamaha tiller kicker with tie bar to the main engine, first-time epoxy barrier coating and bottom paint. Extended Yamaha warranty on both engines until 2030. REDUCED! Asking $227,900. Call Bob Lunt @ 616-843-1225. RYS

2023 WELDCRAFT 280 CUDDY KING Freshwater, 70 hours, twin Yamaha 250s, T 9.9 Kicker. Custom 15K aluminum trailer. Asking $229,999. Call Mark Derenne @ 414- 651-3100. RYS

2023 PURSUIT DC 246 Fresh low-hour trade! On a trailer and ready for an adventure. Low hours on a Yamaha F300 (16 hours) and is properly equipped with the latest tech. Contact for more information or to set up an appointment to see at our Milwaukee location. Asking $159,000. Contact PJ Tamer for more information at pj@centerpointesales.com or 262-424-9627. CNT

2023 FOUR WINNS H260 Check out this almost-new Four Winns H260. Gray with Mercruiser 6.2L 350-hp, only 10 hours on the engine. Tandem axle custom trailer, floor storage, anchor locker, head with sink, depth finder, docking lights, ski/wakeboard tower with Bimini top, JL Audio system, lots of under-seat storage, stainless steel cleats, swim platform and much more! Asking $98,986. Contact info: tom@ centerpointesales.com or 414-232-2955. CNT

2024 RANGER TUGS R-29 COMMAND BRIDGE LUXURY EDITION One owner, 100% freshwater, single Volvo D4-320hp diesel engine with only 32 hours. Loaded: AC, generator, full Garmin electronics, second Garmin 12” display, upgraded light grey hull, Bimini top, RIB 290 Hypalon, epoxy barrier coating and Micron CSC bottom paint, aft steering station controls and custom full cockpit enclosure. Asking $379,900. Call Brent Reed 616-402-0180. RYS

36' 2022 BENETEAU ANTARES 11 FLY Excellent opportunity, 100% freshwater, well-maintained. Popular Beneteau model. Options include: Joystick w/ autopilot, Panda generator, AC, Garmin elect. incl. radar, VHF, plotter. Full galley, 2 staterooms, head w/ separate shower. Asking: $389,000. Contact Joe today 414-793-0195 or joe@centerpointe service.com. CNT

2020 PRESTIGE 590 FLYBRIDGE Prestige’s Miami Boat Show 2020 Featured Boat! One owner, freshwater only, all the options, 475 hours. Exceptionally well maintained, best on the market. View in the water at Port Austin, MI. Asking $1,445,000. Call Jef Benkelman @ 561-348-7929. FEB26

2017 RINKER EX370 Freshwater-only, only 211 hours and always in private lift. Impressive 6’11” of cabin headroom that will accommodate up to 6 people overnight. Custom covers, Generator, A/C and heat, Garmin GPS, windlass anchor, Kicker sound system, joystick controls with Skyhook, private stateroom, spacious mid-cabin and full bath with separate shower. Asking $229,900. Contact Brian Gill @ 616-604-0234 or briang@baymarine.net. BAY

2000 OCEAN YACHTS 48 SUPER SPORT FLY BRIDGE Beautiful salon with pull-out sofa, fully equipped galley, three staterooms, two heads. Two Caterpillar diesel engines deliver impressive speed and handling. Past and current maintenance records available. Asking $299,000. Contact Norm Baur: 216-644-9366 or nbaur@baymarine.net. BAY

Driftwood

1960 Chris-Craft Sea Skiff

In 2020 our family bought a 30-foot, 1960 Chris-Craft Sea Skiff we named Driftwood. She came from the Les Cheneaux Islands in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a place known for its long wooden boat tradition. We brought her south through the Straits of Mackinac, under the Mackinac Bridge and into Little Traverse Bay. That trip remains one of our son’s best memories and the photo of him sitting on her stern beneath the Bridge is still a favorite.

Since then, Driftwood has been part of our summers in Petoskey. We spent long days cruising, swimming and relaxing with our teenagers. Her small galley worked perfectly for simple lunches on the water or evening cocktail cruises with friends. At the marina, people often stopped to ask about her history or just admire her lines — a reminder that wooden boats always draw attention.

Powered by twin Chrysler Crusader engines, Driftwood has the deep, steady rumble that makes these boats unique. It’s a sound you feel as much as you hear and one that never fails to turn heads on the bay.

For us, she has been more than a boat — she’s been a gathering place and a way to mark time with our family. Like many wooden boats, she carries her past along with new memories made aboard, and that’s what makes her special.

— Sarah Shuman, Petoskey, MI