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Lakeland Boating January 2011
The Voice of the Great Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie and Superior
Kayaking the Calusa Blueway Pontoon Roundup � | | | | Riviera Yachts 5000 Sport Yacht SMARTER CHARTERS TIPS FOR lakelandboating.com January 2011 Display Until January 31, 2011 Chartering Abacos, Bahamas San Juan Islands The North Channel in this issue Features 16 22 27 30 38 44 50 58 76 Special Riviera Yachts 5000 SY A Love Affair Pacific-tough luxury from the land down under issue A peek inside Burger Boat Company's Sycara IV Bareboating and Beyond A Charter in the Channel Kayaking the Calusa The ins and outs of Great Lakes charter Cruise Canada's lovely North Channel Explore Southwest Florida's Blueway Savoring the San Juans Charter a Pacific Northwest paradise Adventure in the Abacos Cure those wintertime blues in the Bahamas 12 Tips for Charter Savings Proper Provisioning Money-saving ideas for your charter vacation Culinary planning for your charter PHOTO BY NEIL RABINOWITZ 38 50 4 6 8 10 11 12 14 Departments From the Helm Mail Call Scuttlebutt Gear Guru Electronics Corke Board 13 Boat Spotlight Formula 290 Bowrider Pontoon boats Ohio's South Shore Marine 22 Roundup 60 Marina Watch 74 Lakeshore Life 77 Classifieds 80 Above the Waterline The Chandlery Gear up for your charter vacation 2 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 from the helm New Beginnings January 2011 Volume LXV, No. 1 Publisher Walter "Bing" O'Meara editorial staff Editor: Lindsey Johnson Senior editor: Dave Mull Editors-at-large: Heather Steinberger & Roland Schultz Field editor: Tom Thompson Creative staff Art director/production manager: Brook Poplawski Assistant art director: Christy Tuttle Bauhs Contributors Elizabeth Altick, Dave Bertolozzi, Chris Caswell, Betsy Clayton, Mark Corke, Mike Harris, Nancy Meyers, Zuzana Prochazka, Marty Richardson, Mark Stevens, Sharon Matthews-Stevens, Alexey Stiop, Ann Thompson, Colleen Troupis, Dave Wallace business staffw Associate publisher: David Leli Eastern advertising representative: Mark Conway Regional and classified sales manager: Kirsten Moxley Marketing director: Linda O'Meara Circulation director: Sharon P. O'Meara editorial & advertising offiCe 727 South Dearborn | Suite 812 | Chicago, IL 60605 phone: 312-276-0610 | fax: 312-276-0619 email: firstname.lastname@example.com website: lakelandboating.com Classified advertising 727 South Dearborn | Suite 812 | Chicago, IL 60605 phone 800-331-0132, ext. 21 | fax 312-276-0619 subsCriPtions P.O. Box 15396 | North Hollywood | CA 91615-5396 Customer Service: 800-827-0289 O'Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. Walter B. O'Meara, president Timothy Murtaugh, secretary Tracy Houren, controller Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194), copyright 2011, is published eleven times per year (except November) by O'Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. Editorial and advertising offices are located at 727 S. Dearborn St., Suite 812, Chicago, IL 60605; 312-2760610. Annual subscription rates: United States, $24.95 per year; International and Canadian, $36.95 per year (11 issues), includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. registration number 894095074-RT0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $4.99 for U.S. and Canada. Only U.S. funds are accepted. Subscription correspondence should be addressed to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396 (U.S.), or call 800-827-0289. Known office of publication: 727 South Dearborn Street, Suite 812, Chicago, IL 60605. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER, please send all address changes to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 15396, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5396. Lakeland Boating is a registered trademark of O'Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., Chicago, Illinois. Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. Unsolicited work may be submitted at the author's, photographer's or artist's own risk. Lakeland Boating assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited material. All submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage. I hope you will enjoy our recent redesign. Nothing major--consider it more of a tweaking, really. Thanks to our talented design and editorial staff, Brook, Christy and Lindsey, for bringing the changes to fruition. I am very happy with the results. Speaking of change, we're all aware that for the past couple of years, the marine industry has faced its challenges; however, I am pleased to report that the Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show--whose success is one of the barometers for the coming year--closed on a high note. Attendance was up, and early reports indicate many of the major boatbuilders experienced positive sales results. If these indications are correct, it bodes well for all of us--especially you, our readers. Hopefully, 2011 will be a year of growth and prosperity for the American economy. This January issue was great fun putting together! It is our "Chartering Special," and this year we've included some exotic locales beyond the Great Lakes. Places like the Bahamas' Abaco Islands and the Pacific Northwest's spectacular San Juan Islands are superb vacation destinations when the Lakes are long past ideal cruising conditions. Come summer, if you haven't experienced the North Channel and time is your enemy, call Canadian Yacht Charters. The boats and staff are superb. A couple of years ago, my wife, Linda, and I chartered a boat out of Marsh Harbour in the Abacos, a beautiful group of Bahamian islands protected from the open ocean. We planned to visit the entire island chain; however, the first island two miles out of Marsh Harbour, Man-O-War Cay, really grabbed us. Man-O-War Marina was friendly, quiet and peaceful. The surrounding village was built during the American Revolution and remains as it was back then. We stayed on the boat and spent our seven days walking the island's 4 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 unpaved paths, buying cinnamon buns from a sweet local woman and enjoying our meals at the island's modest restaurant. We spent the entire charter tied up at the marina; we never even fired up the engine until the day we left! I had a great deal of fun writing this month's boat test on the Riviera 5000 Sport Yacht--mainly because I traveled all the way to Australia to test it. Australia has always been on my "Bucket List." Now that I've been, I wonder what my forbearers were thinking when, after leaving Ireland in the 1850s, they chose Jersey City, New Jersey. On a sad note, Northern Michigan lost two fine gentleman last year: John Kraft, owner of Bay Breeze Yacht Sales in Traverse City; and Ward Walstrom, founder of Walstrom Marine in Harbor Springs. In both cases, the sons plan to continue on in the family businesses and carry out their fathers' legacies. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Kraft and Walstrom families. And to our faithful readers, on behalf of the Lakeland Boating staff, we wish you all a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year! Printed in the U.S.A mail call WALSTROM MARINE Harbor Springs 105 W. Bay Street Harbor Springs, MI 49740 Phone: 231-526-2141 Fax: 231-526-7527 Cheboygan 113 East State Street Cheboygan, MI 49721 Phone: 877-245-9702 Fax: 231-627-8091 Something smells fishy... A couple of years ago, I took my boss fishing for the day. We caught a few nice Kingfish, and he wanted to take one home to make some fish dip. When we'd finished for the afternoon, I cleaned the boat and put the fish into my cooler, which I'd stored in the trunk of my car. After a long, hot day in the Florida sun, we hit the bar to grab some food and libations. A few hours passed, and when we left the establishment I remembered to grab his fish out of the cooler. Before we even got to the car, I could smell something awful in the parking lot; I figured it couldn't be the fish, though, because we'd just caught it that day, and it was still fresh. I opened the trunk and almost gagged from the smell. When I looked in the cooler, I realized I'd forgotten something very important: I didn't put ICE on the fish! The fish pretty much baked in the cooler inside my hot trunk, and eventually it...well...exploded. My car smelled like a rotten fish cannery. Never again have I forgotten to put ice on a fish, and hopefully I'll never have to relive that terrible smell. Dave Bertolozzi Port St. Lucie, Florida Bay Harbor 801 Front Street Bay Harbor, MI 49770 Phone: 231-439-2741 Fax: 231-439-2740 LB: Congrats, Dave! In our November/December 2010 issue, we encouraged readers to e-mail us their smelly stories for a chance to win a FREE gift basket from the folks at Kanberra Gel valued at $200. This was officially the stinkiest story we received. Made with all-natural ingredients like Australian tea tree oil, this biodegradable gel dissipates when exposed to air, effectively breaking down mold, mildew and other unhealthy contaminents (and smells!) in the air. We'd say you car's rotten-fish-cannery-smelling days are officially over. Homecoming I read a bit between the lines in your publisher's note entitled "Water Wars" (November/December 2010, p. 4), and as a summer boater on Lake Erie and former 20-year resident of Buffalo, New York, might I offer the following to those who find themselves ever thirstier: "You went South for the sun; come back for the water." James A. Baker Venice, Florida www.walstrom.com Dave won a $200 gift basket from Kanberra! Got something to say? Send an e-mail to email@example.com, or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 727 South Dearborn St., Suite 812, Chicago, IL 60605. The opinions expressed in Mail Call are not necessarily those of Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. PHOTO COURTESEY OF DAVE BERTOLOZZI scuttlebutt Operation Summaries From the 9th District U.S. Coast Guard. 09/17 Kayak Capsized Lake Superior A USCG helo crew rescued two kayakers after their 21-foot tandem kayak capsized near Michipicoten Island in northern Lake Superior. The HH-65 Dolphin rescue helo crew from A/S Traverse City, Michigan, responded at the request of CCG authorities at the JRCC in Trenton, Ontario, who were initially notified of the distress when one of the kayakers activated his PLB at approximately 12:59. The kayakers were reportedly on a four-week trip around Lake Superior and have successfully made the journey before. Specific details of the accident are unknown. Weather was rough OS, with six-foot waves, 20- to 25-knot winds and a water temperature of 55 degrees F. The first response crew OS was aboard a CCG C-130 search plane from JRCC Trenton. The crew spotted the kayakers at 15:19. The Traverse City crew was OS and had both kayakers aboard the rescue helicopter at 16:01. Both reportedly showed signs of hypothermia and were transported to Lady Dunn Hospital in Wawa, Ontario, for treatment. case closed Members of USCG A/S Traverse City, Michigan, conduct wet drills in Grand Traverse Bay October 20, 2010. Crewmembers conduct these drills annually to test their knowledge and the equipment used to carry out search and rescue missions. rescue crew aboard a 47-foot MLB with an EMT aboard, after receiving a request for a medevac from the Mackinac Island Clinic at about 01:45. It was reported the man's roommate had taken him to the Mackinac Island Clinic, where he regained consciousness. The USCG boat crew transported him from the clinic to St. Ignace, where he was taken to a local hospital at the request of his doctors. case closed 10/02 Three Rescued from Tugboat Glencoe, IL USCG rescued three people from the tugboat Kristin J. near Glencoe, Illinois, at about 11:30, after the tug, having run aground on Glencoe Shoal earlier in the day, began taking on water. Rescue crews aboard an HH-65 Dolphin rescue helo from USCG A/S Traverse City, Michigan, were deployed after USCG Sector Lake Michigan received a distress call via VHF channel 16 at approximately 09:00. The helo crew removed all three people from the vessel without incident and brought them safely to shore. The crew of Kristin J. originally reported grounding the vessel at 12:30; the crew wasn't in any danger, however, until hours later when the vessel began taking on water. There have been no reports of pollution from the tug. The vessel does not pose a threat to maritime navigation, and the crew is coordinating commercial salvage to recover it. case pends 10/11 Missing Boaters Located Put-in-Bay, OH Three boaters the USCG and other agencies were searching for in Western Lake Erie have been located. Roy Counts, Mary Counts and Renee Keys were located near Put-in-Bay, Ohio, with no reported injuries. The overdue boaters were able to contact USCG by cellular phone. USCG was notified at approximately 12:30 via a 911 call concerning the missing boaters. It was reported passengers on a 26-foot recreational vessel with a black and gold hull had not returned to Sheffield Lake, Ohio, as planned. USCG directed the immediate launch of search crews aboard a 33-foot SPC-LE from Station Marblehead, a 25-foot RB-S from Station Lorain, a 45-foot RB-S from Station Cleveland Harbor and an HH-65 Dolphin rescue helo from A/S Detroit. USCG crews were assisted by a Canadian C-130 search and rescue aircraft from Renton, Ontario. case closed r PHOTO BY USCG P03 BETTINA ECKLER 09/17 Boat Capsized Pulaski, NY USCG rescued three people after their 19-foot vessel capsized near the mouth of the Salmon River in Pulaski, New York, at approximately 9:15. Rescue crews aboard a 47-foot MLB and a 25-foot RB-S from USCG Station Oswego, New York, a HH-65 Dolphin rescue helo from USCG A/S Detroit and two aircraft from the CCG responded after the boaters made a distress call via VHF channel 16 at 8:25. Crewmembers aboard the RB-S located and safely rescued all three people and transported them to Port Ontario Pier, where they were taken by EMS to a local hospital. All three wore life jackets and showed signs of hypothermia at the time of rescue. case closed 09/18 Man Medevaced Mackinac Island, MI USCG medevaced a 29-year-old man from a clinic on Mackinac Island in Lake Huron to a hospital on mainland Michigan at about 03:00. USCG Station St. Ignace launched 8 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Mid-America Boat & Fishing Show scuttlebutt Calendar of Events January 8�16 Ohio RV & Boat Show Columbus, OH ohiorvandboatshow.com Toronto International Boat Show Toronto, ONT torontoboatshow.com January 12�16 Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show Chicago, IL chicagoboatshow.com January 13�16 Minnesota Sportsman's Show St. Paul, MN saintpaulsportshow.com January 13�16 Ultimate Fishing Show Detroit Novi, MI | showspan.com/ufd January 14�16 & 19�23 Cincinnati Travel, Sports & Boat Show Cincinnati, OH hartproductions.com January 14�23 Mid-America Boat & Fishing Show Cleveland, OH midamericaboatshow.com January 20�23 Minneapolis Boat Show Minneapolis, MN minneapolisboatshow.com January 21�30 Milwaukee Boat Show Milwaukee, WI showspan.com/mbs January 26�30 America's Outdoor Sports Show Rosemont, IL americasoutdoorshow.com January 27�30 Strictly Sail Chicago Chicago, IL strictlysailchicago.com January 28-30 Porter County Expo Boat Show Valparaiso, IN 219-362-1491 9 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 gear guru Don't Leave Home Without 'Em Non-emergency essentials for any charter. BY Z UZANA PROCHAZ KA Packing for a charter vacation can be daunting. There's so much you want to bring, but not much you want to carry. Must-haves include VHF, GPS and a personal locator beacon (PLB), but here are a few more suggestions to help make any charter trip more fun and enjoyable. < PRINCETON TEC Remix Headlamp It's good to have your own reliable, hands-free light when you travel-- whether you need to find your way back to the boat after dark, fix something in the engine compartment, or locate an item lurking in the bottom of your luggage. The Princeton Tec Remix is light, bright and affordable, retailing for just $45. The Remix has three 5-watt red LEDs (to preserve your night vision) and one Maxbright white LED for spotting at a distance. Both distance and proximity lighting can be set at high or low levels and a large, push-button switch is easy to find--even with wet hands or gloves. Weighing less than 3 ounces, the Remix is lightweight and doesn't require a heavy battery pack. The battery compartment is a cinch open with a positive snap closure. Princeton Tec's Remix packs a powerful 45 Lumens, which means it's bright, but has a burn time up to 200 hours on only 3 AAA batteries (included). The headlamp features a comfortable band, is water resistant to IPX4 standards and carries a one-year warranty. PRINCETONTEC . COM < FLIR FirstMate Night Vision Scope If you plan to travel at night in unfamiliar waters, check out FLIR's FirstMate, a high performance, waterproof, portable thermal scope and camera. FirstMate is a fully self-contained unit (meaning it doesn't require a ship's power supply) and is based on heat imaging (as opposed to light amplification), so you can see people or anything else in the water that gives off heat. It's small and lightweight--only 11"x3"x3" and 1.5 pounds--and runs on four rechargeable AA NiMH batteries for five hours of continuous operation (120 hours on standby). It also has a SD card slot (up to 4 GB) to capture still images. A 2x E-Zoom function and USB connector are optional. Choose from white-hot or black-hot imaging. FirstMate retails for just under $3,000 and is the most affordable thermal imaging option available on the market. FLIR . COM LEATHERMAN Wave Multi-Tool ZUZANA PROCHAZKA is a U.S. Coast Guard 100 Ton Master with 20 years boating experience. Her work has appeared in numerous national boating magazines, and she authors a popular gear and boat review blog, TalkOfTheDock.com. 10 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 > There are dozens of reasons to bring your own knife on a charter trip, but why not do one better and bring 16 tools in one? The Leatherman Wave is the most popular full-size multi-tool on the market and an international best seller, redesigned with larger knives, stronger pliers, longer wire cutters and all-locking blades. The Wave features a 3" knife blade, which can be deployed with one hand, and the tool is available in stainless steel or black oxide finish. Features include regular and needle-nose pliers, wire cutters, saw, scissors, smooth and serrated knife blades, wood/metal file, diamond-coated file, regular and Phillips screwdrivers, wire stripper, ruler, and the all-important bottle/can opener. A nylon or leather sheath and lanyard is standard. You'll have to check this tool at the airport because you won't get it past the TSA, but since it weighs 8.5 ounces, it won't put you over the checked baggage weight limit. The Leatherman Wave retails for $80 and comes with an impressive 25-year warranty. LEATHERMAN.COM PHOTOS BY WEST MARINE electronics Raymarine/FLIR relationship a win-win for boaters. by tom thom pson Perfect Match T wo of the most innovative companies in marine electronics have joined forces. FLIR Systems, the firm best known for its thermal imaging technology, has acquired Raymarine, whose products have remained on the cutting edge of boating technology for decades. Although FLIR is a relative newcomer to the recreational marine market, it has been building sophisticated thermal imaging and security systems with commercial, military and government applications for many years. I recently spoke with representatives of both FLIR and Raymarine, to get their input regarding what the companies' marriage means for recreational boaters. Acquiring Raymarine is a step towards making thermal imaging technology available to the masses at an affordable cost, explains Lou Rota, FLIR's vice president of maritime sales. "`Thermal imaging everywhere' is our mantra," he adds. Thermal imaging is often compared to GPS. Both technologies have been around since the 1960s. Since it was made available to the general public just over 20 years ago, GPS went from a high-tech curiosity, to a nice-tohave gadget, to must-have safety gear on board. Night vision gear first came to boaters in the 1990s, but the hand-held devices were quite expensive had a limited field of view. FLIR's cameras, used with a TV monitor or multifunction display, were released to the recreational marine market about five years ago and were an instant hit. The first models had five-figure price tags; today, you can put a basic thermal imaging camera on your boat for a few thousand dollars. Similarities exist between radar and thermal imaging, Rota points out. Both are used to see objects under poor visibility conditions, but thermal imaging is much easier to use. "There's no interpretation needed," maintains Rota. "If you can watch TV, you can use thermal imaging." The first FLIR products to carry a Raymarine logo will be the T300 and T400 series thermal navigation cameras. These products are designed to integrate seamlessly with Raymarine E-Series Widescreens and G-Series multifunction displays, according to Raymarine director of marketing Jim Hands. They also take advantage of the Raymarine HybridTouch user interface on the E-Series and can be controlled with a joystick or keyboard. T300 cameras have a single thermal imaging sensor, and the T400 Series has both a thermal imaging camera and a high-performance, low light video camera. The T300 and T400 series are available with a standard resolution 320 x 240 thermal imager or high resolution 640 x 480 thermal imager. The compact, rugged, marine-grade enclosure can be mounted base down or base up. All cameras have 360-degree pan and 90-degree tilt for complete coverage across the horizon. To learn more, visit raymarine.com and flir.com. r Tom Thompson first began tinkering with electronics when vacuum tubes were considered "high tech." He's been a marine journalist for more than 20 years and has written for Lakeland Boating since 1991. 11 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 corke board Charter Pre-check Plan for you power or sail vacation. BY MAR K COR KE C hartering makes a lot of sense. If you own a boat and typically cruise the Great Lakes, it can be a wonderful way to explore new types of boating in different environments--like sailing a catamaran or monohull in the Caribbean or some other warm and exotic locale, for example. One of our family favorites is a week in the British Virgin Islands during February, when snow and ice blanket our home cruising grounds. Take it from me; a little pre-planning can save a lot of heartache! Not only must you decide where to charter, but also which company to book your trip with. my family dearly, but as the skipper I send my crew off to secure provisions for the boat while the handover takes place. Removing the distraction of over-excited children makes everything go that much more smoothly. On Your Own Once the charter rep is gone, there can be great temptation to shove off almost straight away; but I like to look over the boat and familiarize myself with everything on board first. Assuming it's a sailboat, I'll inspect the deck hardware and check tension of the shrouds and all standing rigging. It's impossible to check the sails when the boat is docked, but I make a mental note to check these the first time they're hoisted. I also check all the running rigging-- especially the main halyard, main and jib sheets--for fraying and wear. As I walk around deck, I also make a quick check of the guard rails and any handrails. On a catamaran, check the nets or trampolines between the hulls. Are they firmly attached? Once I'm satisfied the rigging and other outside components of the boat are satisfactory, I head belowdecks and power up the electronics to make sure everything's in good working order. I also make note of the location of key safety equipment, like life jackets and flares. Many charter boats have multiple heads, so I check those to ensure they flush properly. A blocked head is, well, unpleasant at best. Check if all the sea cocks are open--especially those that admit cooling water to the engines. While inside the engine compartment, check oil and coolant levels and carry out a quick visual inspection to make sure there's no puddle of oil under the engine and gearbox. None of these checks add up to more than 30 minutes total, and by that time the crew's returned with provisions and eager to get underway. Background Research Online, charter companies should provide a detailed list of what boats they offer, restrictions as to where you can cruise and what is included in the overall charter price. Right now, there are some excellent deals on charter boat vacations; but read the fine print carefully before jumping in head-first! When you book a charter, you'll be informed what comes supplied with the boat and what you need to bring with you. Generally, the charter vessel comes fully equipped with all navigation and safety gear, towels and bedding, so there's often little left to bring apart from flip flops and suntan lotion. Upon Arrival After arriving at the charter base, you should be given a tour of the boat by a company representative. Often, this will consist of a vessel walk-through and a briefing using a chart that outlines where you can--and can't--cruise. Even if you have bags of yachting experience, there's still a lot to take in--so listen carefully. Ask questions if you don't understand something. Take notes if you have to. Once the briefing commences, you'll be asked to sign some forms signifying formal handover of the yacht to your care for the duration of the charter period. I love Mark Corke is an accomplished journalist, author and sailor and creator of the popular blog onboardwithmarkcorke.com, focusing on DIY boating projects. 12 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 PHOTO BY MARK CORKE boat spotlight Formula 290 Bowrider BY AN N & TOM THOM PSON PHOTO BY FOREST JOHNSON M iami is sometimes called The Magic City. It's an unequaled boater's paradise, with the Intracoastal Waterway, Biscayne Bay, a never-ending matrix of canals, and, of course, the Atlantic Ocean. Tucked away, almost out of sight yet right in the middle of it all, is a body of water that has a magic all it's own: The Miami River. Thanks to Formula Boats, we had an excellent platform to explore the sights with the company's new 290 Bowrider. Our trip began at a marina in North Miami, where we met up with Formula representatives. Cruising the northern part of Biscayne Bay, we had a chance to really open up the 290 BR. Seas were a bit choppy, but the 290 handled them with ease. The ride was smooth and dry despite quartering seas. Twin 320-hp MerCruiser Magnum MPIs were a good match for the boat's precise and confident handling. See the Sights Seeing the Miami River, a five-and-a-half-mile navigable stretch from a dam just east of the Miami International Airport, gives a unique perspective; and the 290 BR was a roomy, comfortable place to take it all in. You can choose to stretch your legs out, or by removing a cushion section, sit with your feet on the deck. There's even a removable table. The cockpit has a double helm seat with independently adjustable sides. There's an inward-facing bench seat to port that can be used as a forward facing recliner. U-shaped seating behind the helm features another removable table. A wet bar is to port, and there's a sunpad over the engine compartment with an adjustable backrest. Easy Rider The Miami River has been the backdrop for many TV shows and movies shot in the city, from the colorful and trendy 80s of "Miami Vice," to the present day blow 'em up, shoot 'em up adventures of "Burn Notice" and "CSI: Miami." There's a fascinating collection of business and residential development along its banks, from boat yards to luxury high rises. A fishing fleet and small freighters plying commerce to Caribbean islands share the waters with recreational craft of all sizes. The river's prevailing depth is approximately 20 feet, and it's no more than a few hundred feet across at its widest point. There's also no turning basin anywhere along its banks. Luckily, the 290's precise, slow speed maneuvering ability nimbly kept us out of the river traffic. As we reached the end of navigable waters, we watched planes overhead just before they touched down at the airport. Having been on the water for several hours already, it was nice to have the comforts of home aboard the 290--including a head compartment. It's deceivingly large for being inside the port helm console. The space is attractively finished with wood grain flooring and a solid surface countertop with a stainless washbasin. As we headed back down river, it was time for lunch. Our Formula hosts offered an excellent suggestion: The Casablanca Fish Market/Seafood Bar and Grill. Here, a delectable menu with plenty of options, impeccable service and white linen tablecloths all come standard. It's just one of the many unexpected surprises we found while enjoying the fun and feisty 290 along this fascinating stretch of water called the Miami River. Specifications LOA: 29' Beam: 9' Draft: 40" Weight: 8,950 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 122 gals. Power as tested: Twin MerCruiser Magnum MPIs 320-hp Price as tested: $197,475 formulaboats.com 13 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 the chandlery cruise control Don't leave home without these products, designed to make your charter vacation safer and more enjoyable. 14 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 QUICK FIX > You can never be too cautious, so it's a good idea to carry a personal locator beacon (PLB). The ACR AquaFix 406 is one of the smallest units on the market, making it easy to pack and toss in your duffel. It can easily be carried in a pack or mounted on your belt or life jacket. The unit is completely waterproof to 33 feet and, best of all, it floats! $199 DEFENDER.COM < NEW-WAVE NAVIGATION Take navigation to the next level with MaxSea TimeZero Navigator from Furuno. This PC software allowers users to switch from a traditional 2D chart display to a more realistic 3D view with the click of a mouse. In unfamiliar waters, such as on a charter vacation, this software is sure to keep you on course. $450 FURUNOUSA.COM < PHONE HOME Communications at sea just got more Pro from Inmarsat, one of the world's leading providers of satellite phone and data services. The Bluetooth-enabled phone has an eight-hour talk time and up to 100 hours on standby. Retail price for the IsatPhone Pro ranges from $500-$699, and air time is about $1 per minute. INMARSAT.COM/ISATPHONE BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY > When docking at distant and unfamiliar ports, it's smart to ensure your safety on board. Poseidon Boat Alarms lives up to its "Protection made simple" motto by offering made-to-order security options for safetyconscious boaters. A portable intrusion system including motion sensor, wpressure pad, cable wrap system, control box, key fob and carrying case can be custom built for under $1,000. POSEIDONALARMS.COM 15 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 < reliable, thanks to the hand-held IsatPhone SIEZE THE MOMENT Capture the fun on your charter with an underwater camera/ dive mask from Liquid Image. The Scuba Series HD320 is a lightweight, waterproof, 5 mega-pixel digital camera--built directly into a scuba mask! It holds up to 36,000 still images or 16 hours of video with the 32 GB memory card (a 64 MB card is standard) and weights a mere 13 ounces. Good to a depth of 115 feet. $310 LIQUIDIMAGECO.COM boat test RivieraYachts 5000 Sport Yacht. by b i ng o ' m eara 16 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 17 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 boat test W 18 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 When the folks at Riviera Yachts invited me to their headquarters in Australia, I leaped at the opportunity. Especially since my stay would include a chance to attend the Sydney Boat Show, and especially since I would have a chance to run most of Riviera's new entries for 2011. Founded in 1980, Riviera now builds recreational yachts from 36 to 85 feet, with open and enclosed flybridges, sport yachts, offshore express and motor yacht models in the mix. The largest luxury boatbuilder in Australia, Riviera's dealer network spans 30 countries. The architecture of all Riviera Yachts stems from the sea conditions they are designed to handle, namely the Pacific Ocean, which is often far from pacific. The ability to operate in hostile conditions is paramount. The boat must be seaworthy. After the Sydney Show ended, I had an opportunity to ride a 44-foot Riviera to the dealership in Pittwater, about an hour and a half north of Sydney Harbour. As we negotiated our way through the harbor, I got a feel for the enormity of it; boats everywhere, recreational and commercial. About three miles offshore in the Tasman Sea we headed north, with 20-knot winds at our backs and four-foot rollers. The boat scoffed at the sea's impertinence. When I took the wheel, I expected a battle to stay on course, but the boat tracked beautifully--forging ahead despite the rollers was as easy as plying through a dead calm. boat test PHOTOS COURTESY OF RIVIERA YACHTS 19 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The ride was similar to a catamaran. Coming off a roller, you do not slam; you settle. As the bow lifted and came down, I kept bracing myself for an impact that never came. There I was, one hand on the wheel, tracking as if it were locked in one place. Passing Pittwater Bay and into the Hawkesbury River, I was blown away by the number of boats--an incredible selection of powerboats, sailboats, monohulls and cats in a variety of marinas. Truly a boat-lover's paradise. My trip took place just as summer was ending in Chicago--which is still winter in Australia. Their winter is much kinder than ours, with temps in the 60s and 70s--not quite the battery-killers we experience across the Great Lakes. In a word, the weather was "perfect." Entering the bay, you pass a never-ending number of smaller bays, many fed by tributaries. The navigable river meanders for about 120 miles. The scenery is spectacular, mountainous with breathtaking waterfalls. We headed upstream in Cowan Creek and lunched at Cottage Point. This wasn't burgers and sandwiches; it was a five-star gourmet meal in the woods. After docking I had a chance to look at a new 5000 Sport Yacht, being delivered to John and Carol Stimpson of Boyne City, Michigan, and Bonita Springs, Florida. Eyeballing it stern to bow revealed nary a ripple--the fiberglass work was flawless. A walk through the boat begins at the oversize, hydraulic swim platform. The swim platform drops below the water for easy dinghy retrieval. The transom lifts to reveal the dinghy garage, which provides a snug home for the RIB. Once the dinghy is stowed, the platform can be dropped below the water, where it acts as a stabilizer whether at the dock or on the hook. On the aft deck is a settee and folding table across the transom and a small, c-shaped settee against the bulkhead with a small table. As you face the salon entrance, there is a door to starboard and a large 20 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 boat test An electrically-operated swim platform works in conjunction with an onboard launching system for the 5000's tender, neatly garaged out of sight (right). New Riviera owners Carol and John Stimpson (below, pictured center and right) got exactly what they wanted in their new boat. window to port. You can attach an awning to the overhang and merge the salon with the aft deck, creating a spacious entertainment area. Inside, the settee runs the salon's entire port side; the well-furnished galley is opposite. The teak and holly floor and cherry wood cabinets looks striking and quite elegant against the pale leather settee. The large ceiling window/sunroof extends from the pilothouse to the border of the salon. The master stateroom is located in the forward bow area. It contains a large in-suite head and roomy shower. There is space to starboard that can be used as another stateroom, office or lounge, as the new owners are doing. The Stimpsons are experienced boaters and knew exactly what they wanted in and on their new boat. They knew they wanted an express cruiser around 50 feet long and compiled a list of boatbuilders that built express models in this size range. Their checklist included diesel inboards with Zeus pod drives, a Furuno NavNet Package, viable dinghy system, and an automatic shore-power system with two, 50-amp cords. They also wanted just two levels aboard the boat. No canvas allowed. The couple created a list of several boat companies and pitted one against the other. Riveria, and the Stimpsons got exactly what they wanted. Standard power for the 5000 SY is twin Cummins-Mercruiser diesel inboards with Zeus pod drives, capable of superb performance and especially notable for maneuvering in and out of slips using a joy stick control. A Zeus feature people rave about is the "Skyhook." When activated, Skyhook uses GPS information to adjust the pod drives and keep the vessel in place, regardless of current or wind. A trip to Australia and an opportunity to see the boating world down under was truly a highlight of my publishing career. Riviera proved it lives up to its reputation of building terrific boats tough enough for the Pacific Ocean, yet comfortable and pleasing to anyone who loves to be on the water. r Riviera 5000 SY Standard Equipment Muir windlass w/Mason Ray anchor, chain and chain counter at helm; Bomar hatches w/OceanAir screens; Plastimo compass; Icom VHF; 26" electric-lift Samsung TV; Bose Lifestyle system w/ 7 speakers, amplifier and subwoofer; Amtico flooring in galley and head; Vitrifrigo drawer-type refrigerator and freezer; Miele 2-burner cooktop; 41,000 BTU Cruisair A/C; 11-kW Onan genset; 7 maintenance-free batteries; Skyla 3-kW charger/inverter; Racor fuel-water separators; tender garage w/ 3.1 meter Zodiac RIB; K�rcher pressure washer w/ attachments and fore/aft hook-ups; 3/2,000 gph Rule bilge pumps w/ high-water auxiliaries and float switches; hydrulic swim platform. Specifications LOA: 54'9" Beam: 15'7" Draft: 3'7" Weight: 39,700 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 608 gals. Water Capacity: 198 gals. Power: Twin 593-hp Cummins-MerCruiser QSC8.3-600 diesels w/ Zeus pod drives Base Price: $875,861 riviera.com.au 21 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 A Get swept away by Sycara IV. Love Affair BY H EATH E R STE I N B E RG E R T 22 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 This past fall, Burger Boat Company of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, garnered international attention when it won a 2010 ShowBoats Design Award for its 151-foot fantail motoryacht Sycara IV. The awards ceremony, held October 26 in Palm Beach, Florida, honored the megayacht industry's greatest talents in naval architecture, design, styling, craftsmanship and technological innovation. Sycara IV, which earned a Naval Architecture Award in the "Motor Yacht" category, is a striking example of the magic that happens when exceptional talents come together in a collaborative environment. Launched in June 2009, this classic yacht celebrates the distinctive vision of her owners--and she represents Burger's dedication to designing and building yachts able to meet such requirements. For these owners, who wish to remain anonymous, yachting has been a lifelong passion. As they grew to love the lifestyle, they also became experienced in the design and construction process, building half a dozen yachts over two decades. All were contemporary in design, offering the most state-of-the-art systems and amenities. As the years went by, however, the owners developed a new dream. They toured the Presidential yacht USS Sequoia, they chartered the venerable Honey Fitz, which served five U.S. presidents and was famously named for President John F. Kennedy's grandfather, and they fell in love with the charter yacht Litchfield Lady, a Trumpy with a fantail stern and clipper bow. And the idea of a building 1920s-style motoryacht for cruising America's inland waterways was born. Wishing to build their dream yacht in the U.S., they chose Burger, one of the country's oldest and most highly respected shipyards. In addition to Burger's impressive roster of experienced designers, engineers and craftspeople, the Sycara IV team included naval architect Bruce King, project manager Steven Narkawicz and Ken Freivokh, who detailed the exterior and designed the Art Deco interior spaces. "Everyone was excited about the boat," said Ron Cleveringa, Burger's vice president of sales and marketing. "She's absolutely amazing." At every turn, Sycara IV evokes the spirit of yachting's golden age. Her salon is adorned with Madrone Burl raised wall panels enhanced with inlaid Macassar ebony and Paduak molding, teak and maple flooring, a custom wool carpet, leather-upholstered bar with custom-crafted bar stools, and cabinetry featuring polished stainless-steel detailing and jewelry-quality hardware. In the separate dining area, curved walls feature Lalique crystal panels, and full-length French doors provide expansive water views. The owners' suite, located amidships on the main deck, incorporates a king-size bed, nightstands and a desk, while the ensuite bath boasts Madrone Burl walls, teak and maple floors, white onyx countertops, and Lalique crystal panels and faucet sets. Three beautifully appointed guest suites, each with private bath, and a utility room are located on the lower deck. The crew accommodations also are located on the lower deck. They incorporate a galley, lounge, laundry facilities, captain's stateroom and three crew cabins, each with private bath. The Art Deco styling continues throughout, featuring white-painted, raised-panel walls, contrasting mahogany beams, raised-panel doors and trim and built-in mahogany furniture and cabinetry. Beyond her overall look and feel, the owners had a secondary goal for their new yacht: To make her environmentally friendly. "The boat's maximum speed is 15 knots, but at 12 knots, it leaves less than a foot of wake," they noted. She's powered by two Caterpillar C18 diesel engines with two Kohler generators, and according to the owners, she's quite fuel-efficient. The yacht burns roughly 27 gallons per hour at 12.5 knots. While her home port is not the Great Lakes, heartland boaters may spot Sycara IV from time to time. The owners plan to cruise North America's East Coast and inland waterways during the summers, then take her to the Caribbean for winter. It's a true love affair. For the owners, for those who had a hand in creating her, and for those who simply love classic yachts and will delight with every opportunity to see Sycara IV's majestic lines sweeping across America's waterways. r PHOTOS COurTESy Of BurGEr BOAT COMPANy 23 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 pontoon roundup Aloha Tropical Series 250 Sundeck LOA ..................................................................................................................... 25'5" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ........................................................................................................................12" Weight ....................................................................................................... 3,400 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 25 gals. Base power ................................................................................ Suzuki DF140 TX Base price ...................................................................................................$43,000 Website ....................................................................................alohapontoons.com Aqua Patio 240 Sun Lounger LOA ..................................................................................................................... 25'1" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ..............................................................................................2,421 lbs. (dry) Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 30 gals. Base power .................................................................................. Yamaha T50TLR Base price ...................................................................................................$29,173 Website ........................................................................godfreypontoonboats.com Avalon 27 Ambassador LOA ......................................................................................................................... 30' Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ........................................................................................................................14" Weight ....................................................................................................... 4,000 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 42 gals. Base power .......................................................................................................... N/A Base price ............................................................................................................ N/A Website .................................................................................. avalonpontoons.com Bennington 2575 QCW IO LOA ..................................................................................................................... 28'1" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 4,032 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 62 gals. Base power ....................................................................................................300-hp Base price ...................................................................................................$61,232 Website .............................................................................. benningtonmarine.com Berkshire 243SLX BP3 Premium LOA ...................................................................................................................24'10" Beam ...................................................................................................................... N/A Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,860 lbs. Fuel capacity ..............................................................................................200 gals. Base power .......................................................Yamaha F115 TLR EFI 4-stroke Base price ...................................................................................................$52,316 Website ...............................................................................berkshirepontoon.com Boundary Waters 310 Sky Dek LOA ......................................................................................................................... 31' Beam ................................................................................................................... 10'2" Draft ........................................................................................................................12" Weight ....................................................................................................... 4,900 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 53 gals. Base power .......................................................................................................... N/A Base price ...................................................................................................$85,571 Website ..............................................................................................pontoons.com Harris FloteBote 230 Solstice LOA ..................................................................................................................... 24'8" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ........................................................................................................................19" Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,465 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 31 gals. Base power ............................................................Mercury 50 ELPT 4S BF EFI Base price ...................................................................................................$31,020 Website .....................................................................................harrisflotebote.com 24 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 JC Spirit 242 TT LOA ..................................................................................................................... 23'7" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,200 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 55 gals. Max power ......................................................................................................150-hp Base price ...................................................................................................$15,500 Website .............................................................................................jcpontoon.com Landau Atlantis 250 Cruise Tri Log LOA ......................................................................................................................... 25' Beam ......................................................................................................................8'5" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 3,000 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 33 gals. Base power ....................................................................................................115-hp Base price ...................................................................................................$31,750 Website .........................................................................................landauboats.com pontoon roundup Manitou 23 25th Anniversary Edition LOA ..................................................................................................................... 24'4" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ........................................................................................................................18" Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,610 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 53 gals. Base power ....................................................................................................200-hp Base price ...................................................................................................$60,200 Website ...................................................................................... manitouboats.com Princecraft Vantage 23-4S LOA ..................................................................................................................... 23'9" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,062 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 27 gals. Base power ...........................................................................25ELPT EFI 4-stroke Base price ...................................................................................................$21,706 Website ............................................................................................princecraft.com Qwest 7518 XRE Cruise LOA ..................................................................................................................... 18'6" Beam ...................................................................................................................... N/A Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 1,325 lbs. Fuel capacity ..............................................................................................200 gals. Max power ........................................................................................................ 60-hp Base price ............................................................................................................ N/A Website ..............................................................................compactpontoons.com South Bay 725CRO LOA ..................................................................................................................... 27'4" Beam ...................................................................................................................... N/A Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,710 lbs. Fuel capacity ........................................................................................................ N/A Base power ................................................................ Yamaha F90 TLR 4-stroke Base price ...................................................................................................$40,375 Website ............................................................................... southbaypontoon.com SouthWind 229FX Hybrid LOA ..................................................................................................................... 22'9" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ........................................................................................................................12" Weight ....................................................................................................... 3,500 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 50 gals. Base power ....................................................................................................115-hp Base price ...................................................................................................$35,670 Website ..................................................................................southwindboats.com Starcraft Starlounger 256 LOA ..................................................................................................................... 25'3" Beam .................................................................................................................... 102" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,600 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 30 gals. Base power ....................................................................................................115-hp Base price ...................................................................................................$38,288 Website ....................................................................................starcraftmarine.com Sunchaser 8522 LOA ..................................................................................................................... 22'3" Beam .................................................................................................................... 102" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,100 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 24 gals. Base power ...................................................................................................... 50-hp Base price ...................................................................................................$18,900 Website ..................................................................................sunchaserboats.com Suncruiser SS210 Cruiser LOA ......................................................................................................................... 20' Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 1,701 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 24 gals. Max power ........................................................................................................ 90-hp Base price ........................................................................................Contact dealer Website ............................................................................................ suncruiser.com SunStation 250 LTD RF LOA ..................................................................................................................... 26'4" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ........................................................................................................................12" Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,400 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 25 gals. Base power .......................................................................................................... N/A Base price ...................................................................................................$29,643 Website ..............................................................................................pontoons.com 25 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 pontoon roundup NAME GAME SunTracker Fishin' Barge 21 LOA ...................................................................................................................21'11" Beam .................................................................................................................... 102" Draft ........................................................................................................................16" Weight ....................................................................................................... 1,775 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 42 gals. Base power .................................................................................40 ELPT 4-stroke Base price ...................................................................................................$16,995 Website ............................................................................................suntracker.com Sweetwater 220 Wet Bar LOA ......................................................................................................................... 24' Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ..............................................................................................1,914 lbs. (dry) Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 24 gals. Base power .................................................................................. Yamaha T50TLR Base price ...................................................................................................$29,173 Website ........................................................................godfreypontoonboats.com BREW-SKI I bought a new 21-foot Sea Ray in March 2000. It took me a few months to come up with a good name. I thought being from Milwaukee--and taking into account the two things I do on my boat--I found a name that fit the bill. Nik Clark West Allis, Wisconsin Sylvan 8520 Mirage Cruise LE LOA ..................................................................................................................... 20'3" Beam .................................................................................................................... 102" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 1,850 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 24 gals. Base power ...................................................................................................... 50-hp Base price ...................................................................................................$20,350 Website ...................................................................................... sylvanmarine .com Tahoe 26 Sierra Funship LOA ......................................................................................................................... 27' Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ........................................................................................................................14" Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,910 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 42 gals. Base power .......................................................................................................... N/A Base price ........................................................................................Contact dealer Website ....................................................................................tahoepontoons.com SEAS THE DAY We purchased our 27-foot Sea Ray Sundancer the year my mother-in-law was diagnosed with breast cancer. She's a clever person, and seeing that my wife and I were having difficulty coming up with a name, we had her make a few suggestions. This one stood out. John & Tricia Dell'Anno Rochester, New York Veranda V2275RFL LOA ..................................................................................................................... 23'6" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ........................................................................................................................18" Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,100 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 31 gals. Base power ....................................................................................................115-hp Base price ...................................................................................................$28,995 Website .................................................................................... verandamarine.com 26 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Voyager Extreme 25 Cruise SL LOA ..................................................................................................................... 25'6" Beam ......................................................................................................................8'6" Draft ....................................................................................................................... N/A Weight ....................................................................................................... 2,650 lbs. Fuel capacity ................................................................................................ 41 gals. Base power ....................................................................................................250-hp Base price ........................................................................................Contact dealer Website .........................................................................................voyagerboats.net MAKE IT SNAPPY My 27-ft. Sea Ray was ready for the dumpster two years ago. I'm in the marine canvas business and restored the boat. Joe Gedridge Sandusky, Ohio Bareboat & Beyond Experience the wonderful world of Great Lakes charters. by elizabeth altick W hether you're an old salt or a wannabe boater, chartering a yacht is a great choice for a pleasurable and carefree day--or week--on the water. A happy customer of Canadian Yacht Charters (CYC) in Gore Bay, Ontario, writes, "We really enjoyed our cruise around the North Channel. It certainly has me thinking: Why own a yacht when one can charter a well-equipped yacht from CYC?" "We had a charter [customer] book eight weeks on a Tartan 34," says Dave Conrad, who, along with wife Kristen, owns Bay Breeze Yacht Charters in Traverse City, Michigan. "They owned a boat years ago but decided it was more cost effective to charter long term. It also allowed them to sail different locations all over the world. When weighing the costs of insurance, dockage and boat and maintenance payments, chartering shapes up as a cheaper, more relaxing way to boat." "Even during the recession, we've seen new business coming from boaters who typically go to the Caribbean or Mediterranean," Conrad continues. "These charterers scaled back their spending by `staying local.'" The motto of Sweetwater Yacht Charters in White Lake, Michigan, is "All of the fun, none of the work!" Even more leisurely than bareboating is a skippered charter, with a licensed captain familiar with the surrounding waters. The difference between lots of fun and kind-of a drag, however, is your choice of charter companies. Word of mouth is, of course, the best way to find a reputable 27 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 PHOTOs By BAy BrEEzE yACHT CHArTErs CHARTER RESOURCES LAKE MICHIGAN Bay Breeze Yacht Charters Traverse City & Cheboygan, MI 877-941-0535 bbyc.com Power & Sail | Captain & Bareboat Fleet: 22 yachts Great Lakes Charters Bay Harbor, MI 231-547-0700 greatlakes-charter.com Power | Captain Fleet: 1 yacht Southeast Yachting School & Charters Inc. Sheboygan, WI 920-452-4377 Power & Sail | Captain & Bareboat Fleet: N/A (yachts 30-50 feet) Sweetwater Yacht Charters White Lake, MI 616-915-0027 sweetwater-charters.net Bareboat | Sail Fleet: 2 yachts Great Lakes LAKE SUPERIOR Superior Charters Bayfield, WI (Apostle Islands) 715-779-5124 superiorcharters.com Power & Sail | Captain & Bareboat Fleet Size: 59 yachts company. Chris Blodgett of Discovery Yacht Charters in Little Current, Mantoulin Island, Ontario (and the son of Ken Blodgett, who owns CYC), says a search of websites can be revealing. A firm's professionalism is reflected by the contents of its site, ideally complete with videos, detailed descriptions and blueprints of their fleet, qualifications and services. Bay Breeze's Conrad says all policies, procedures and contracts should be available on the charter company's website, along with the model years of their fleet and available onboard equipment. "Less reputable companies aren't concerned with the details, or may purposely neglect to include certain information," he explains. LAKE ERIE CHARTER COMPANY CRITERIA John Bevington is a patron of Bay Breeze Yacht Charters. His criteria for a great charter company include: Have they been in business for a reasonable amount of time?; Are they offering newer boats?; Will they supply references?; Do they have a strong support staff--off and on the water? "Your charter time is very limited," he says. "You simply cannot afford to have things go wrong. It's not worth saving a few dollars and risking a bad trip." An outstanding company offers "high quality boats, superbly maintained, clean and neat," says Bob DiCarlo of Harbor North in Huron, Ohio. Discovery's Blodgett agrees. "We have a great cleaning crew who care about our boats and expect them to come back in the same condition," he says. "There are no remnants of the previous group. The beds are made, linens laid out and the fridge is on." A big fan of CYC is the trip leader for New Jersey-based The Sailing Club. "The thirteen who sailed Summer Breeze and Sicilia last week have told me these two boats were the best boats the club has chartered," he writes. "They were impeccably maintained and prepared. Your staff was very pleasant and easy to work with. They were thorough in seeing us off in fully equipped, sparkling-clean boats that were in excellent mechanical shape." Preventive maintenance is critical because, as Chris Blodgett points out, "Every boater knows a million things can go wrong. We have to stay on top of things every day so the equipment is dependable." "The sign of a good charter company is how much time they spend with you during the pre-charter check-out," echoes Bevington. "Is the person conducting the review knowledgeable? Do they cover all the bases? It's the skipper's responsibility to make sure he has a safe boat. Having a good charter company sure makes it easier." Bay Breeze's Conrad offers a simple piece of advice. "Charterers should slow down," he recommends. "The inventory lists, boat systems briefings, Harbor North Huron, OH 419-433-6010 harbornorth.com/charter Sail | Captain Fleet: 10 yachts LAKE HURON CYC North Gore Bay, Manitoulin Island, ON 800-565-0022 | cycnorth.com Power & Sail | Captain & Bareboat Fleet: 24 yachts Discovery Yacht Charters Little Current, Manitoulin Island, ON 800-268-8222 discoveryyachtcharters.com Sail | Captain & Bareboat Fleet: 8 yachts FISHING CHARTER Therapy Too Ludington, MI 800-845-6095 therapytoo.com Power | Captain Fleet: 1 yacht LAKE ONTARIO Toronto Yacht Charters Toronto, ON 416-545-7245 torontoyachtcharters.com Power & Sail | Captain & Bareboat Fleet: 6 yachts CHARTER INSURANCE Alan R. Mott Agency Inc. Huntington, NY 631-549-2628 boat-ins.com 28 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The staff of Bay Breeze Yacht Charters (left-hand page) is experienced, knowledgable and always willing to lend a hand to charter customers. chart briefings and everything else charter company staff insist on covering are for the charterer's benefit. Sure, it takes time; but it ensures things will go as well as they can for the duration of the charter." Much like Bay Breeze, CYC, which charters 19 luxury yachts and four trawlers, also covers all bases for safety and comfort prior to a charterer setting sail. In a video on its website (cycnorth.com), the company describes its services and requirements. To make sure those who choose to bareboat are qualified, a downloadable boating r�sum� asks for skippering and navigational experience. Blodgett says navigational chart skills are especially important in Lake Huron's gorgeous but rocky and meandering North Channel. At CYC, guests attend a chart talk and learn about the dos and don'ts of cruising Lake Huron's waters. Before departure, CYC staff take guests aboard to check the inventory and review mechanics. Charter yachts should be equipped with the latest navigational equipment. The best ones provide every amenity imaginable, from Sirius Satellite Radio to linens and clothespins. Canadian Yacht Charters entices hungry boaters with vacuum-packed fresh and smoked white fish, pickerel and rainbow trout. Discovery offers overnight wash-and-fold laundry service. Toronto Yacht Charters helps orient boaters by inviting them on a $200 sightseeing flight before boarding. As for the "don'ts" of chartering a boat, Chris Blodgett says, "It's simple: Don't run aground." r Experience charter fishing in a class by itself aboard Therapy Too. We welcome the novice to the skilled angler. Ludington, MI www.therapytoo.com Custom Marine Inc. Innovative Solutions for Your Boat u Custom-Built Boats u Yacht Interior Refits u First Class Antique & Classic Wooden Boat Restoration u Paint Jobs & Bright Work u Expert Fiberglass Repair ya c h t i n g S c h o o l & c ha rt E r S i n c . South EaSt Sail & PoWEr � � � � � � � C a p t a i n Na d i n e Na c k C apt aine d & B areb o at C har ters Fle et of Yachts 30' to 50' Hands-on Powerb o at S cho ols Nav igat ion Inst r uc t ion Pr ivate & Group on-t he-water inst r uc t ion Power & Sai l Yacht Management C har ter broker / Par t y yachts Custom built new 28 foot Lyman Deluxe Sportsman Sandusky, OH www.custommarine.biz 419.621.1188 1 4 1 6 M a i n av e . Sheboygan, Wi 53083 920-452-4377 S E ya c h t @ a o l . c o m 29 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 A Charter in the Channel Time stands still in the popular cruising paradise known as the North Channel. BY MARK STEVENS Five clocks once hung on the wall inside a white, low-lying building that reclines like a retiree beside the docks of Gore Bay on Northern Ontario's Manitoulin Island. Under each clock was the name of a North Channel destination. Baie Fine, Clapperton Island, Benjamin Islands, Beardrop Harbour. And Gore Bay. The Gore Bay clock showed the time. No hands marred the faces of the other clocks. These decorations didn't survive renovation of the Canadian Yacht Charters base. Maybe that's a good thing, for clocks are superfluous here. But they gave eloquent testimony to the nature of this cruising ground that begins right where I'm standing, waiting around for proprietor Ken Blodgett to begin the chart briefing. Running east to west from the shores of Georgian Bay to Drummond Island in Upper Michigan, the channel is roughly 20 miles at its widest and 70 miles long, though the most popular cruising grounds encompass an area around 40 miles east to west. The biggest freshwater island in the world, Manitoulin guards most of the channel from the weather and waves of Lake Huron, although these waters are part of that lake. First-time charterers call it the North Channel. For regulars, it's just the Channel. Repeat charterers are a mainstay of the business for Ken Blodgett and his wife, Pam. I am one. F 30 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 P H O T O C R E D I T R O n MH MT H E w S PS TO T O n S E D I T bY SHA JOE S AT OE / - H EvE CR MARY SMITH / PHOTO CREDIT JOE SHMOE 31 LAKELAnDbOATInG.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The Canadian Yacht Charters base reclines at the foot of the west bluff of Gore Bay--the perfect North Channel starting point. I scan charts tacked to the wall as I wait for the chart briefing to begin (since the clocks are gone, Blodgett probably doesn't know the time). I make note of potential anchorages for my float plan. On this charter, I write in pencil. I plan to follow the sun and my heart in no particular order. I might spend an extra day at one anchorage, sharing the water with three or four other boats and six loons. I might just drop the hook in one spot and stay there. Forget about velocity made good. Forget about clocks. Blodgett arrives, and we sit down in easy chairs surrounding a coffee table strewn with back issues of Lakeland Boating. You can tell the repeat offenders from the newbies. The latter want to know how far they can get in a day. How many hours to Baie Fine? How many islands can they get to in a week? I want to know if the blueberries on Croker Island are ripe. Regulars are used to the dog-and-pony show that makes you think when Blodgett isn't offering up a beginner's guide to the North Channel, he should be doing stand-up comedy somewhere in Manhattan. Deadpan he shares the story of one anchorage, where you climb the ridges of seemingly snow-covered quartzite mountains to discover, 300 feet above your boat, a crystal clear pool. "It's gorgeous," he says. "You want to jump right in. But don't stay in too long." He pauses, squinting at the captive audience: Four couples in a big sailboat who are looking for the North Channel equivalent of an Atlantic crossing, a young fellow with his wife who are chartering a Mainship trawler, and me. "This pool has healing powers," he says. "I lost my leg in an accident." He lifts up a perfectly fine limb and taps his shin. "I was cured." Everybody laughs. Some nervously. Some impatiently. He scans the group. "How far are you going?" A whole lot of answers--all ambitious. He looks at me. "You?" "We'll see." North Channel Charter Companies Bay Breeze Yacht Charters 12935 West Bay Shore Dr. | Traverse City, MI 49684 877-941-0535 | bbyc.com Canadian Yacht Charters 30 Water St. | Gore Bay, Ontario, CAN P0P 1H0 800-565-0022 | cycnorth.com Discovery Yacht Charters Little Current, Manitoulin Island, Ontario CAN 800-268-8222 | discoveryyachtcharters.com 32 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 PHOTO BY SHARON MATTHEWS-STEVENS 33 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The North Channel offers visitors incredible on- and off-water enjoyment. Great hiking ashore includes Bridal Veil Falls (left) at Kagawong on Manitoulin Island. I've sort of evaded the question because I don't really want these people to know where I'm dropping the hook tonight. For me, solitude is the chief appeal of a cruising ground some call one of the world's top ten freshwater spots. It strikes me that Canadian Yacht Charters may be part of the problem and not part of the solution. There are only so many anchorages to go around, and CYC has a fleet that includes 17 sailboats, six trawlers and our 38-foot PDQ. And now he's telling them all the best anchorages. "Thousands of them," he says. "You get to one, and you decide it's the most beautiful anchorage you've ever seen." Pause. "Then you get to the next one." I know what he means. This morning marks the beginning of my sixth charter to the Channel. In my memory bank are filed some veritable visions of paradise. After the briefing, my fellow brief-ees rush to their boats in a sort of nautical Amazing Race. I buy a sizeable piece of homemade fudge, grab a coffee and catch up with Blodgett. Haven't seen him since last summer. Jump cut to late afternoon, two days hence. My wife's best friend, Barb Anschuetz, stands atop the biggest pink granite ridge on South Benjamin Island looking down into waters so clear you can see every boulder. "I cannot get over the beauty," she says. She lifts an arm and gestures grandly: At the granite-fringed bay where our chartered boat lies at anchor, sheltered by aspen and cedar; at the passage that snakes through the south end of South Benjamin, a channel in the Channel where sea grass decorates a tiny cove with gigantic rock outcroppings, pine trees bent and sculpted by west winds; at a stream that begins in the forest and tiptoes across the rock to meet with waters that flow from Lake Huron into the Channel. "I feel like I'm standing in the middle of a painting. Wow." I sit on a rock a few feet from our dinghy. I, too, scan the vista. Tonight when the sun has fallen, I will repeat the exercise, in the light of a moon that paints these waters in a surreal silver glow. "See what I mean?," I yell to Barb. "I see what you mean." "Most beautiful anchorage in the world." 34 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 "I agree." She clamors down a steep slope and disappears into the forest. "Just wait until tomorrow." Charter the Channel, and you'll drop the hook in places that good people go when they die. Next day we slice through a narrow patch of water guarded by towering boulders into a sheltered cove called Oak Bay. Winds are howling outside, but the waters grow still inside, even as the wind groans to the south; even as the waves thunder on one rock face. A great boulder of granite shelters the north shore. Sea grasses at the west end of the anchorage bend before insistent winds. A forest lurks on the south shore. We hike through it, all the time feeling the ghosts of voyageurs, of aboriginal hunters and fishermen, whispering like the wind in the aspens. No longer mysterious and brooding, the woods have become a sanctuary. The setting sun bathes Mount McBean's quartzite peaks in blazing scarlet. We sit in the cockpit, sipping wine underneath black skies long after twilight flees. When my time comes, I decide, they can spread my ashes in Oak Bay. But I am no hurry for that to happen. That's why I am one of the safest--or wimpiest--skippers around. That's why I have a healthy respect for the Channel. "You have to have a weather eye," says Blodgett. "These can be big waters. You need navigational skills [though all their boats are now equipped with chart plotters]. And you have can't be stupid." He looks me up and down. "The Channel is not kind to idiots." At that point I decide to build stops at some ports into the float plan. Never know what the weather can do. "Best part about the Channel," says Blodgett during the chart briefing. "Three hours in any direction and you've got some sort of town." Gore Bay reclines along the western shore of a two-mile-deep bay bounded by twin precipices. It is ideally suited for provisioning, and CYC maintains a well-stocked chandlery. Check out the museum housed in the old jail or rent a bike and head out on West Bluff Road to one of the oldest lighthouses on Manitoulin. Roughly halfway between Gore Bay and Little Current is the pretty little town of Kagawong, boasting prime examples of Victorian architecture. PHOTO BY SHARON MATTHEWS-STEVENS (LEFT) SPORTSMAN'S INN (RIGHT) Room AT THE Inn Boaters cruising the North Channel simply can't overlook a visit to the legendary Sportsman's Inn Resort & Marina, atop Lake Huron's Georgian Bay in Killarney, Ontario. In 2009, new owner Rachelle McConnell completely renovated the more than century-old property, which now boasts a 140-slip marina (including accommodations for yachts 100 feet and larger, as well as gas, diesel and pump-out services) and 12-suite inn offering fine dining, luxurious amenities, live entertainment and an awe-inspiring wine cellar with more than 2,000 bottles to chose from. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Killarney Channel from each of the Inn's 12 guest suite balconies. Individual rooms feature your choice of queen- or king-size beds, flat-screen TVs, gas fireplaces and complementary internet. When craving a gourmet meal, Sportsman's stately dining room hosts Inn guests and visitors for dinner service. Grab lighter fare at the facility's on-site pub. You can even have meals delievered dock-side, right to your boat! -- L.B. 35 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Follow the Kagawong River up slopes that mark the northern reaches of the Niagara Escarpment and take a cool dip at the foot of Bridal Veil Falls. Little Current features a variety of shops selling First Nations' artwork. Dock on the new seawall and spend a day strolling tree-lined streets, gaze out at boats negotiating the swing bridge that connects the island to the mainland or sip a cool one while people-watching from Anchor Grill's patio. For me, it's all about passagemaking--350 islands here, 90 percent of them completely empty. It's about sun-gilded waters, western island trees that hover above the shimmering surface like a mirage, the purple ridges of Manitoulin Island guarding the southern border of the Channel. It's about looking off the stern quarter and seeing a bank of fair weather cumulous clouds; they look exactly like the billowing sails of an approaching fleet of tall ships. For me, it's about dropping the hook and not seeing a solitary light in any direction but skyward--courtesy of a tapestry of stars that shows like a Fourth of July fireworks display. And it's about cruising in a place where nature itself is the lead character. Five years ago, I was sitting on a dock on Saint Maarten, waiting for a boat to pick us up for a snorkeling excursion. I started chatting with the guy beside me, another avid boater, as it turned out. He asked me where I was from. When I told him I was Canadian, he got a faraway look in his eye. "The North Channel," he said. Then he sighed like a love-struck teenager. "So you've chartered the Channel?" "No, my friend," he said, his next sentence revealing the mark of a true philosopher--and a guy with pretty good taste in charter destinations. "We chartered paradise." r 36 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The North Channel is one of the most beautiful and often explored cruising grounds in the world (top). Janet Head Lighthouse guards the approaches to Gore Bay (bottom). phOTOs By ThE NOrTh ChANNEL MArINE COuNCIL (TOp) shArON MATThEws-sTEvENs (BOTTOM) North Channel - Georgian Bay - Lake Huron www.thenorthchannel.ca. firstname.lastname@example.com c/o P.O. Box 196 Spanish, Ontario P0P 2A0 Just West of Downtown Little Currant Box 487, Little Current, Ontario POP 1K0 � Sailboats, Catamarans & Powerboats � 27' to 50' � Bareboat & Crewed Charters � 31 years in operation Owners: Ken Blodgett & Pam McLaughlin POWER & SAIL Canadian Marinas Monitor 68 705-368-2239 Your Full Service Marina For: � Inside/outside storage on-site � Dockage - seasonal & overnite � Certified marine mechanics � Boat & engine repairs � Travel lift & Marine supplies � Salvage & towing � Prop & shaft repairs � Within walking distance of downtown stores & restaurants 30 Water Street, Gore Bay, ON POP 1H0 1-800-565-0022 � 705-282-0185 www.cycnorth.com � firstname.lastname@example.com 37 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 38 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 kayaking Florida's Lee County welcomes Midwesterners with open arms as they seek to escape from Old Man Winter and get up close and personal with nature. by b etsy clay ton the Calusa W 39 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail (see map at right) is a 190-mile stretch of water open to kayakers, canoeists and paddlesports enthusiasts of all regions and skill levels. winter when the mercury stays steady in the 70s and 80s and no one even considers owning foul-weather gear. "They can take a class and go with a guide for the first time out to get local knowledge, which is so important on the water in a new place, and once they have that down, they can go wherever there is water," says Gilbert, who jokes she has "dual citizenship" as owner/guide/ instructor of Chicago Kayak in the Windy City and Kayak Southwest Florida in Bonita Springs, Florida. Bonita--just southeast of Sanibel--is one of nearly a dozen communities nestled along the Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail, a 190-mile meandering water trail designed to get visitors and locals alike into the more than 230 square miles of inland waterways Lee County, Florida, offers. Boaters here consist of sailors, anglers, trawler-lovers, day-tripping powerboaters, windsurfers, standup paddleboarders, personal watercraft fans and, of course, kayakers and canoeists. The Naples-Fort Myers area boasts not only one of the highest boat ownership per capita ratios in the Sunshine State, but also nation-wide, according to registration statistics. With the average water depth only four feet, powerboaters are likely to miss out on Mother Nature's front-row seating. Paddlers get the best view. The region is becoming known as a paddlesport hotspot. The annual Calusa Blueway Paddling Festival--most recently held November 3-6, 2010-- draws visitors from 18 states, Canada and Germany for guided kayak trips, clinics, races, speakers, demonstrations, fishing tournaments and more activities than you've probably thought of (geocaching, anyone?) for kayakers and canoeists. "For me it's about the nature, the peace--you get to stop and see what's going on and get into a whole other world back to nature," says Theresa Roake, who attends every Calusa Blueway Paddling Festival and also volunteers at the event. "If you're looking for the Old Florida experience on the water, kayaking is the answer," says Roake, who, with husband Steve, summers on a 41-foot boat in the Chicago and Great Lakes area but lives the rest of the year with sailboats and kayaks in Cape Coral, Florida. "You get out in the mangroves, and you forget everything else exists." More than two dozen outfitters (kayak-speak for "place to rent your boat and gear") are set up in Lee County along the Calusa Blueway. Rates and equipment styles are as varied as the experience a kayaker desires. Many are geared towards newcomers to paddlesports. Brian Houston likens learning to paddle to "going for a walk." The Captiva Island-based kayak instructor has taken 40 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 PHOTOS BY LEE COUNTY VISITORS & CONVENTION BUREAU Plan Your Trip The destination: The Calusa Blueway canoe and kayak trail meanders through Southwest Florida's Lee County, behind the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel. It's on the Gulf Coast, half way between Tampa and Miami, and features natural beaches and vast back bays and tidal areas. Visitor's Guide: Get a free guide mailed to you by visiting fortmyers-sanibel.com. A new 2011 partnership between the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau and Lonely Planet, a worldwide travel guide company, means this year's Visitor's Guide will be like no other. Canoe/kayak resources: The Calusa Blueway is more than a marked paddling trail. Its free maps and website serve as a resource guide to rentals, outfitters, guides, routes and more. Visit calusablueway.com for more information. Event: The 2011 Calusa Blueway Paddling Festival will be November 3-6 in the heart of Southwest Florida with races, a fishing tournament, on-water instruction, speakers, demonstrations, new-product testing, guided trips, socials and more. Visit calusabluewaypaddlingfestival.com for details. 41 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The beautiful part about kayaking is that anyone at any age can participate. Gear and equipment manufacturers are especially keen to making the sport accessible to newbies and experts alike--whether they be 8 or 80 years old. out 8- to 80-year-olds who have enjoyed the water without exerting themselves or feeling overwhelmed. Manufacturers and outfitters have grown smart about making the sport accessible to newbies as kayaking's popularity has grown. Boats are lighter and more stable. Paddles are ergonomically correct. Seat backs are as comfortable as easy chairs. Biceps aren't the focus. When taught properly--and Houston can teach anyone paddling basics in five minutes--your whole body helps propel the boat. Once someone glides through Pine Island Sound, they find themselves up close with a Discovery Channel-style experience, says Houston, a naturalist, guide and instructor for Adventure Sea Kayaks based at 'Tween Waters Inn on Captiva and also a manufacturer's representative for Epic Kayaks who does special events nationwide. "Today it was otters and manatees. Yesterday it was bull sharks in a foot and a half of water, dolphins and more manatees," he says. "There's the constant chorus of cicadas and the array of birds." There's also confidence of knowing where you are and feeling safe in waters you may just be visiting. The Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail's maps are set up to provide more than nautical knowledge. They offer write ups on where to go, what you'll see, where you can get out and where you'll find markers. Mangroves--the primary shoreline tree in these subtropics--clump into islands, offering protection from winter breezes and a maze to navigate. The trail also serves to unite paddlers and their groups. Local clubs welcome tourists to join them on sunset trips and even overnighters. Many outfitters trailer boats to launch sites to rent to tourists who want to tag along. "People are very friendly here, with a number of clubs welcoming people to come along," says Roake, whose husband gave her a kayak for Christmas six years ago and who belongs to several clubs now. The resources outfitters provide, plus the trail itself and the atmosphere of welcoming paddlers, all combine to make the Sanibel-Fort Myers area a headliner for anyone looking to experience canoeing and kayaking along the Gulf of Mexico, says Nancy MacPhee, a Fort Myers-based regional director with the Florida Paddling Trails Association. "The FPTA enjoys the heightened awareness the Calusa Blueway Paddling Festival provides. The Calusa Blueway serves as a model to other communities because it's such a successful paddling trail. And it's so easy for visitors to come enjoy." r 42 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament, which takes place the first weekend of November, is among the up-and-coming kayak events for anglers in the U.S. Fishing Frenzy Rob Phelan and his wife, Sue, love their powerboat for weekend daytrips; but when it comes time to wet a line, they slip into their kayaks instead. "The variety of species and abundance of fish--combined with the kayak giving you the opportunity to get closer to fish than in a boat--make for great times here," says Rob, a Fort Myers, Florida-based transportation engineer who fished the 2010 Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament. The annual fall tourney, which always takes place the first weekend of November, is among the up-and-coming kayak events for anglers throughout the Southeastern United States, Midwest and Northeast. The 2010 tournament winner earned a fully rigged Hobie Mirage kayak. Others garnered cash prizes and gear. The event showcases the allure of fishing Florida's Lee County from a kayak, which is a year-round pastime for locals and a coveted activity of visiting anglers along the 190-mile Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Waters here offer an unrivaled fishing experience, thanks to massive, shallow grass flats, bountiful access and, most importantly, a trophy case of gamefish species anglers worldwide seek. The passes between Fort Myers and the Gulf of Mexico are home to the largest tarpon migration in the United States. Offshore reefs and the Gulf attract charter fishing and spear fishing enthusiasts--all while surrounded by a huge concentration of protected goliath grouper. The sandy shores and barrier islands offer pier and beach fishing for flounder; the estuaries behind those islands feature crafty snook, redfish and seatrout as well as sought-after cobia, tripletail and those tarpon. It's no wonder Field & Stream magazine named the area among the 25 hottest fishing spots in North America. Florida Sportsman magazine called Matlacha, a town on the Calusa Blueway, a top Florida hotspot for kayak fishing. Tournaments happen regularly, many of them for powerboaters, but the Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament and its catch-and-release status appeal to tourists and locals who don't want to impact the environment. It's no surprise to Josh Harvel, who fishes--and wins--enough tournaments a year he's sponsored by Hobie Fishing kayaks. He also guides via his business Yak'in It Up Charters, based in Cape Coral, Florida, and is the volunteer organizer of the Calusa tournament for Lee County Parks and Recreation. "I like tournaments [for] the competition, but kayak tournaments are more like a family of anglers rather than guys trying to one up each other. I like the camaraderie," says Harvel. "It feels great to catch fish from a kayak." -- B.C. Chitwood Charters Selene Grand Banks �Hyatt/Ritz Carlton Docks � �Florida's Beautiful West Coast � �White Sand Beaches � �Sarasota Florida �Investment Tax Shelter Available 36', 42', 48'GB, 50' & 53' Selene 800-769-1399 � www.chitwood-charters.com PHOTOS BY LEE COUNTY VISITORS & CONVENTION BUREAU (LEFT) / BETSY CLAYTON (RIGHT) 43 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 44 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 PHOTO BY NW EXPLORATIONS Y Friday Harbor S n Juans he Charter in a Pacific Northwest paradise. BY Z UZANA PROCHAZ KA S vo ing You could spend an entire summer exploring the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington State, but you can cover the highlights in just a week or two of chartering. These compact cruising grounds are easy to explore due to short point-to-point distances and don't require an international plane ticket. You'll find everything from secluded anchorages to charming towns, where marina life is lively and bars are filled with music and entertainment. The San Juan Islands, explored by the likes of Juan de Fuca, James Cook, George Vancouver and Francisco de Eliza, are part of the San Juan Archipelago in the Salish Sea between the U.S. and Canada. The archipelago is split into two parts: The San Juan Islands are part of Washington State in the U.S., while the Gulf Islands are part of the Canadian province of British Columbia. Of the total 450 islands, fewer than one sixth are permanently inhabited--so if you're looking for a quiet respite to get in touch with nature, this is definitely the place! If you wish to cross the border into Canada, bring your passport and extend your charter, because Victoria and Ganges harbors are not to be missed. But if your time is more limited, pick up a boat in Anacortes, Washington, and spend a week on the American side exploring some of these beautiful highlights. Friday Harbor on San Juan Island is probably the most well known, and it's an easy first stop from Anacortes. It's a real town, so if you forgot anything on your provisioning list, there are grocery and drug stores as well as gift shops, galleries and a movie theater. Downtown Friday Harbor glides down the hill toward (and then morphs into) the marina, where staff make sure you can tie up even on busy summer weekends. 45 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The town, which is said to be the oldest original fishing village on the West Coast, offers a variety of great restaurants, bars and organized activities including biking, kayaking and a walking tour. The whale museum is worth a visit, as is the farmers market, with 40 vendors offering locally grown goodies on most Saturdays. Friday Harbor is walkable and filled with photo-friendly, quintessential Pacific Northwest scenery, so bring your camera, have a bowl of chowder--and relax. Rosario Resort For a bit of history, head north to Orcas Island and the Rosario Resort and Moran Mansion museum. Shipbuilder and one-time Seattle mayor Robert Moran purchased 7,000 acres here in the early 1900s. In the next 40 years, he built an Arts and Crafts-style residence, which is now a public museum. Moran's nautical background is evident in all the furnishing and fixtures, which you can examine on a self-guided tour. The mansion was built to last, with 12-inch-thick concrete walls, a copper roof and fence links made from the anchor chain of the USS Nebraska. Inside, the elaborate music room features a 1913 Aeolian pipe organ, a 1900 Steinway grand piano, a Belgian stained glass window picturing the harbor at Antwerp and two mezzanine libraries overlooking a Tiffany chandelier. Six days a week at 4:00 pm, Christopher Peacock, accomplished musician and Rosario historian, presents a free concert, which includes music and footage from the original silent film, Phantom of the Opera, with Lon Chaney. Outside, you can pet deer wandering the grounds freely looking for handouts. The figurehead, carved from a solid white pine log from the clipper ship America, has kept an eye on Cascade Bay since 1916, when Moran installed it there as a memorial to shipbuilding. San Juan Islands Charter Companies San Juan Sailing School 2615 South Harbor Loop Bellingham, WA 98225 800-677-7245 sanjuansailing.com San Juan Yachting 2615 South Harbor Loop Bellingham, WA 98225 800-670-8089 sanjuanyachting.com The Moorings 93 North Park Place Blvd. Clearwater, FL 33759 888-952-8420 moorings.com ABC Yacht Charters 3001 R. Ave., Suite 106 Anacortes, WA 98221 800-426-2313 abcyachtcharters.com Anacortes Yacht Charters 2415 T Ave., Suite 2 Anacortes, WA 98221 800-233-3004 ayc.com NW Explorations 2623 South Harbor Loop Bellingham, WA 98225 800-826-1430 nwexplorations.com 46 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 The Passes There are several passes in these islands; some are beautiful, while others are exhilarating due to fast moving currents. Two you don't want to miss are Deception Pass (for a bit of a thrill) and Mosquito Pass (for the scenery). Deception Pass, which separates Whidbey Island from Fidalgo Island, is a short, narrow, rugged pass spanned by a picturesque bridge. Descriptions of this pass, named by explorer George Vancouver, always include words like "prohibitive," "impressive" and "tricky." A prudent mariner would only transit the pass at slack water due to the strong currents and wild whirlpools, but if you arrive a few hours before and head into the current, it's like sailing a river. Don't do this at the height of the current, however, because the pass is narrow, and strong engines, clear weather and good helming is key. Once through the pass, you've reached Cornet Bay, where you might catch a late summer glimpse of tall ships firing cannons in a mock battle when the Lady Washington and the Hawaiian Chieftain make the rounds of nearby islands. Mosquito Pass winds between Henry and San Juan islands and is a shortcut to Roche Harbor from Haro Strait. It leads past two tranquil anchorages in Garrison and Westcott Bays. The Coast Pilot recommends this passage to small craft with local knowledge, but at slack tide and with good visibility (this second point is key as you maneuver marker to marker), it's a pretty journey that will shave a couple of miles off your trip when heading north or south. the story of this former lime quarrying center, the ruins of which are still visible nearby. The gardens and grounds are reason enough to visit, but the hiking is a good excuse to get off the boat, as is the local cuisine. On Sundays, you can visit the 100-year-old Our Lady of Good Voyage Chapel, which was the original Roche school, or walk further up the road to a self-guided tour through an outdoor sculpture garden with bits of art positioned on the small meadow and tucked between the trees. The McMillin family mausoleum is a 10-minute walk into the woods and is a peaceful place to sit and ponder life a hundred years ago. The days at Roche Harbor begin with morning bell carillons and end with the lowering of the American and Canadian flags with their respective anthems, followed by cannon and taps. Even people dining out put down their forks, step outside and observe the ceremony. Roche Harbor On the northern tip of San Juan Island, and a mere 15 miles from Canada, is Roche Harbor, a friendly marina with 377 slips and more to do than first meets the eye. The quaint Hotel de Haro, which was built in 1886, is the heart of the town and is listed on the National Register of Historical Sites. It still offers 20 rooms to visitors and a lobby full of old photographs that tell PHOTOS BY NEIL RABINOWITZ (OUTSIDE LEFT) SAN JUAN ISLANDS VISITORS BUREAU (RIGHT) Critters One of the real treats chartering this area is the wildlife. Black-tailed deer, wild turkey and silver foxes roam the land, while the water teems with harbor seals, sea lions, minke whales and Dall's porpoise, which are small dolphins capable of traveling upwards of 30 miles per hour. Of course, it's 47 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 the tuxedoed orcas that are the stars of the show, and their favorite bit of water seems to be the Haro Strait separating the U.S. from Canada. This is the orca feeding place and playground, and with a bit of patience, you're bound to catch a pod traveling the channel, breeching and splashing. Local laws ensure that boats stay at least 100 yards away from the whales, but sometimes if you're lucky, they'll swim right to you. Whale watching boats are available, and if your time is limited, local knowledge is key to spotting the orcas quickly. Check out San Juan Outfitters, San Juan Excursions or San Juan Safaris out of Roche and Friday harbors for a quick trip and an up-close and personal encounter. Chartering Options The busy season in the San Juan Islands is mid-July to mid-September. If you want an August charter, book well in advance. There are numerous places to charter in the Pacific Northwest, but the most convenient might be to start in Anacortes on Fidalgo Island, a two-hour shuttle ride from Seattle airport. The three most prominent charter companies here are The Moorings, ABC Yacht Charters and Anacortes Yacht Charters (AYC). Each has a good selection of well-maintained yachts, with AYC offering a broad selection of both power and sailboats. Remember: The distances are short and the winds are fluky and elusive, so a powerboat might be a more comfortable option for these cruising grounds that are sure to charm you for a week or a lifetime. r 48 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 PHOTOS BY NW EXPLORATIONS Personal, Friendly Service Competitive Rates Agents For 6 Major Companies 30 Years Experience Marine insurance (631) 549-BOaT 2628 Specializing In Pleasure Boats, 6-Man Charter Boats, Marinas, Boat Dealers, And More www.boat-ins.com Your Premier Pacific Northwest Charter Company From our location you can easily cruise the San Juan Islands, Canada's Gulf Islands and Victoria on Vancouver Island. Planning a cruise to Desolation Sound? No problem! Our charter specialists are very knowledgeable about the cruising area as well as the local waters of Washington State. �Bareboat �Luxury Crewed �Yachts For Sale �Yacht Instruction 800-426-2313 www.abcyachtcharters.com 49 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 50 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Adventure in the Abacos A weeklong Bahamian charter vacation helps alleviate the wintertime blues. BY CH R I S CASWE LL I strolled along a crescent of beach on Fowl Cay, enjoying the softness of the white sand between my toes. I'd alternate, walking on hard, packed sand where the warm sea lapped around my ankles like bathwater; then shifting onto the dry, powdered sugar sand. In front of me, an oddly shaped stalk protruded from the beach. With a couple of tugs, I unearthed the sand-covered object. Wading knee-deep into the Bahamian sea, I rinsed my discovery and, like a magician unveiling a wonderful rose, the object morphed into a flawless conch shell, glowing scarlet on the edge of its fat lip. I knew it was going to be the perfect charter. PHOTO BY THE MOORINGS 51 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY The brochure had been intriguing: An announcement that The Moorings, the largest bareboat charter company in the world, recently put a fleet of powerboats in the Bahamas. An opportunity had been created for non-sailors to enjoy the delights of chartering, and it wasn't long before we were on a Continental Express flight from Fort Lauderdale to Marsh Harbour, the social center of the Abacos, a necklace of islands that stretch along the north side of the Bahamas. A quick taxi ride after cursory customs, and we were climbing aboard Goodnight Moon, our twin-hulled home for the next week. Our charter started the next morning, but we'd arranged to stay aboard the previous night to give ourselves a chance to stow gear and get acquainted with the boat. Sam, an ebulliently cheerful Moorings staffer, arrived bright and early the following day with her annotated copy of "Cruising Guide to the Abacos" and gave us a thorough check-out. It was invaluable insider's advice on the best snorkeling, the best anchorages and the best food. The fleet of Moorings 372PCs in the Abacos were created to Moorings specs by America's Cup designers Morelli & Melvin and built in South Africa by the world-class Robertson & Caine yard. The thoughtful design provides comfortable accommodations for two couples, plus kids. Each hull is identical, with large double berths, private heads with electric toilets and stall showers. The salon joining the hulls features a big If there's one thing predictable about an Abacos charter, it's time in the water--whether it's snorkeling, shelling, kayaking or just sitting and splashing your feet. 52 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 MAp COurTEsy Of hGChrIsTIE.COM phOTO By ThE MOOrINGs Abacos Chartering Tips How To Get There Several airlines fly from Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and Palm Beach airports direct to Marsh Harbour in the Bahamas. Cost Season is key, with the most expensive during the Christmas holidays and from late April to late June, while the low seasons are mid-August to mid-October and January through March. If you book dates immediately before or after a more expensive season, you'll get the same weather at a discount. At press time, a 372 charters for about $3,500 in the low season and $5,000 in December high season. You should consider their Yacht Security Insurance at $60 a day (for peace of mind), and our fuel cost for the week was less than $300. If you want to tie up in a marina rather than anchoring, expect to pay from $1 to $2 per foot per night, plus electricity and water, depending on the season. What To Take Everyone takes too much, so pare down. In a soft-sided, easy-to-store duffel, pack a couple of swimsuits (so one can be drying), t-shirts, deck shoes, beach flip-flops and a light jacket for cool days in the off-season. In the Abacos, you'll live in a swimsuit, but bring a nice shirt and shorts if you want to dine ashore. You'll need a good hat, polarized sunglasses to see into the water and strong sunscreen to prevent burns. Take cameras, some CDs for the stereo and a canvas tote to carry gear ashore. Must Reading Let me immodestly suggest "Chartering A Boat," written by yours truly and published by Sheridan House, available at bookstores everywhere. 53 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 convertible dinette and galley with everything from microwave to refrigerator/freezer. Best of all, the 372 has a 6kW generator that not only keeps the batteries charged and the microwave popping popcorn, but dual air conditioning systems keep the salon and cabins comfortably cool, even on the hottest days. Up an easy flight of stairs is the bridge, with ample seating and a helm shaded by a bimini top. Standard equipment is very comprehensive, including a propane barbecue grill, flat screen TV/DVD, stereo with CD, snorkeling gear, more than ample linens and towels, and full electronics--from chartplotter/GPS to VHF radio. In the Abacos, the depthsounder is useful but a little frightening until you get used to the fact that the water is so shallow that much of your cruising is in 10 to 12 feet. Happily, the 372 draws just 3 feet, 2 inches of water and the props are guarded by twin skegs for protection against occasional groundings. ISLAND LIFE Unlike sailboat charters where prospective charterers need to document sailing experience that would daunt Horatio Hornblower, power charters are available to anyone with basic powerboat experience. And, if you aren't comfortable at first with a boat of this size, The Moorings can provide a skipper for a day or two to hone your boat-handling and anchoring skills. After stocking up with provisions at a local market (we chose to do our own provisioning rather than using the Moorings plan), we cast off to explore the Sea of Abaco. Our first stop was Fowl Cay, a Sam-recommended snorkeling and shelling spot where we anchored in 9 feet of water and dinghied onto the beach that provided the first of many conch shells. Later, after a pleasant lunch in the air-conditioned cabin, we upped anchor and cruised past Scotland Cay and along Great Guana Cay. We decided to spend our first night at Orchid Bay Marina in Great Guana's Settlement Harbour, a spotlessly maintained facility where we hooked up to shore power, took hot showers, barbecued steaks and enjoyed the first of the rum drinks we later dubbed "No Brainers" for their inevitable end result. The next day, we listened in on the local cruiser's VHF radio net, where boaters trade information on weather and sea conditions around the Abacos, as well as tips on marina deals, restaurant specials and even local flea markets. We'd planned to head for Green Turtle Cay, but our plans were changed by a local condition called a "rage sea." The wind and swells sometimes create breaking seas in the 54 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Abacos Bareboat Charter Companies Great Harbour Charters This boatbuilder offers its 37- and 47-foot power trawler-yachts from early spring until mid-summer from its base at Marsh Harbour. GREATHARBOURTRAWLERS.COM 352-377-4146 Sunsail A sister company to The Moorings, Sunsail offers a sail-only fleet of monohulls and catamarans from 36 to 39 feet from its Marsh Harbour base. SUNSAIL.COM, 888-350-3568 Abaco Multihull Charters In combination with Maine Cat Charters, this company offers two sail (30 feet and 41 feet) and one 47-foot power catamaran from its base in Hopetown. MAINECATCHARTERS.COM 888-832-CATS Cruise Abaco This company offers a mix of monohull and catamaran sail- and powerboats from 35 to 49 feet, along with an ASA sailing school on Marsh Harbour. CRUISEABACO.COM 242-577-0148 Florida Yacht Charters This Florida-based company has two sailboats--a 45-foot catamaran and a 46-foot monohull at Mangoes Marina on Marsh Harbour--available for bareboat charters. FLORIDAYACHT.COM 561-844-1100 The Moorings In addition to its fleet of sailboats from 35 to 46 feet, the company offers two power catamarans: Our 372 catamaran and the 474 PC, a 47-footer with four staterooms, each with private heads and showers. MOORINGS.COM 888-952-8420 passages between the Sea of Abaco and the Atlantic, making them impassable. In our case, the remains of a hurricane far to the north had created huge surf in Whale Cay Passage, and we would have to wait for another day to reach Green Turtle. Instead, we walked into "town," which is mostly a collection of cheerfully painted houses plus a good grocery that provided a few items we'd forgotten. A local conch vendor tended a table arrayed with his wares, but we were delighted with our own find and knew we'd discover more. We used the afternoon to venture up to Baker's Bay at the end of Great Guana, where we could clearly see massive breakers rolling through the passage in the distance. We anchored in water so clear we worried that our anchor would bonk the starfish we could see on the bottom, and again we explored the beach, discovering several additional conchs. KICK BACK AND RELAX The rage continued the next day, so we opted to head for Treasure Cay, a luxury resort and marina on Great Abaco. En route, I let the autopilot steer while we enjoyed grilled cheese sandwiches and icy beers. Finding the entry was a bit tricky because it's invisible until you're close; but once inside, we picked up a transient dock right in front of the swimming pool. Shorepower and water were inexpensive, so I hosed down the boat to get rid of PHOTOS BY THE BAHAMAS MINISTRY OF TOURISM salt and sand, and we tucked in for the evening with the air conditioning keeping us pleasantly cool. The next morning, we explored the Treasure Cay area, which lays claim to one of the best beaches in the world. That night, we dined ashore at the Tipsy Bar (aptly named if you sample their Goombay Smashes) where we enjoyed freshly caught lobster with crisp Caesar salads. Afterwards, we headed for Elbow Cay and the harbor of Hope Town. Even with the chartplotter, the entrance is challenging. We got down to 5 feet of water (and some white knuckles!) before we slid into the pretty harbor marked by the candycane red-and-white-striped lighthouse. We could have anchored in the calm harbor, but we opted for shorepower dockside rather than the generator at anchor, so we chose the Hope Town Marina, where the friendly dockmaster warped us into a slip with a nice view of the lighthouse. We shared hors d'oeuvres with a couple honeymooning on a Sea Ray at the next pier and, later, the steady sweep of the 138-year-old kerosene light (seen on everything from postage stamps to Bahamas currency) hypnotized us into a deep sleep. We explored Hope Town by dinghy and foot the following day, marveling at the brilliantly painted houses that somehow managed to survive Hurricane Floyd's 155-mph winds. We topped off our provisions (and rum) and headed out at mid-day for Man-O-War Cay nearby. We anchored in the eastern harbor for lunch and decided to return to the Moorings base that night, since our charter ended 55 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Bright colors, sandy beaches, umbrellas ashore and in your drinks--what are you waiting for? the next morning and we had an early flight home. It had been a relaxing charter, with none of the muscle needed to handle the lines on sailing charters (even our anchor windlass was electric!), the comfortably protected Sea of Abaco hadn't challenged our skills, and we could recommend it to novice charterers wholeheartedly. Whether your interests lie in snorkeling through gin-clear waters among squadrons of brilliant tropical fish, hunting conch shells on beaches where yours are the first footprints, or simply relaxing at anchor with a trashy novel, the Abacos have just what you want. We'll be back soon. www.GreatHarbourCharters.com Great Harbour N37 Flybridge - Semper Fi � 2 staterooms, 1 head, sleeps up to 8. Most comfortable w/2 couples or a family of 4 or 5. � Charters for $4,200 per week, bareboat (including fuel). Great Harbour N47 Flybridge - Spoonbill � 3 guest staterooms, 2 guest heads (separate crews quarters w/head) & sleeps up to 11. Most comfortable w/3 couples or 2 couples plus 3 or 4 kids. � Charters for $9,200 per week � captained (including fuel). Both boats are available from mid-January through mid-August. They charter out of Marsh Harbour in the Abacos (northern Bahamas), a 45-minute commercial flight from Daytona, West Palm or Ft. Lauderdale. BOTH BOATS HAVE � HUGE, home-size galley � Queen-size berths � Large saloons w/flat screen TVs & DVD players � Bow thruster � Air-conditioning � Generator � Giant flybridge w/seating for 11 & dining space for 8 � Extremely comfortable, capable, safe vessels � Dinghy with 4-stroke outboard. Receive a special of $3,600 per week for the bareboat N37 and $7,900 per week for the captained N47. Charter must be booked before January 31st and scheduled during calendar year 2011. 56 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Mention this ad in Lakeland Boating Contact Eric Kraft (cell) 352-538-4843 � (office) 352-377-4146 PHOTO BY THE BAHAMAS MINISTRY OF TOURISM Does the barbecue on your boat need a Cleaner Cook? Call or visit our website for specials! (425) 530-6376 www.cleanercook.com Helen Island Yacht Charters Inc. Experience a dream vacation and the beauty of the Caribbean aboard your own private charter. Enjoy St. Lucia's Pitons, the warm white sands of the Tobago Cays,and the natural wonders of the islands. hiyci.com Bahamian owned & operated, proudly serving yachtsmen since 1976 Check our Website email: email@example.com 242-365-6008 VHF Channel 16 Marina Amenities Include: �Clean Showers & Fresh Water Pool �Cable TV & Wireless Internet �Laundry Facilities �Telephone at each slip �Reverse osmosis water �Boat care & maintenance On Marina Premises: �Fresh Bahamian Bread �Painted fish gift shop �Dock & dine restaurant �Island treats ice cream �Golf cart rentals �Bank & beauty salon Mainship 390 available for charter in Eastern Caribbean, based in St. Lucia W.I. www.hiyci.com firstname.lastname@example.com � 1-758-48-HIYCI (44924) 57 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 A Baker's Dozen Of Charter Savings valuable cost-saving tips for your charter vacation. by ch r i s caswe ll 58 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 PHOTO COurTEsy Of rIvIErA yACHTs E 2. veryone assumes that because we play with boats, we have deep pockets. But not all of us are Daddy Warbucks. Keeping the costs of a bareboat charter to a minimum is not just smart, but essential. Here are a dozen hard-won tips to help you reduce the cost of your next bareboat charter. Not all of them will work all the time, but the key is to consider every cost and then look for ways to minimize it. Besides, some of these tips will make your charter even more fun, and knowing that you're saving money is just frosting on the cake. 1. Fly cheap. Investigate the lower costs of night 7. Shop the seasons. By chartering outside flights that get you to your destination on the morning of your charter and save you the cost of a hotel room the night before. Check with airlines to see which days are the least expensive to travel (flying mid-week is often considerably less). Keep an eye open for companion fare offers from the airlines; if you qualify as a senior citizen, airlines often allow you to take a younger companion at the same price. Last, don't forget to check the price of your seats on the day you depart: You may have a refund coming if the price has gone down, but few travelers know to ask for it. the high season, you can expect savings as high as 50 to 60 percent--and you won't have the big crowds, either. Enjoy happy hour aboard. A shot of rum at the Pusser's bars in the British Virgins costs $5--a vast markup over the price of a bottle of inexpensive local rum. Besides, you have a boat with a view that most tourists would kill for. Sightsee ashore; drink in your own cockpit. Compare costs. Before you sign up for any charter, have a clear understanding of all the add-on fees beforehand. Some charter companies include the cost of a dinghy, an outboard and all your bed linens, while others do not. In some cases, the add-on costs can actually turn a less expensive charter into a more expensive package than one that includes all the extras. 8. 9. Choose wisely. Sure, Thailand and Turkey sound like great charter spots, but, for the price of the airfare alone, you can pay for an entire week of cruising in the Pacific Northwest, the Great Lakes or the Abacos. You'll probably arrive the day before your charter, which means you need overnight accommodations. Rather than breaking the budget with a hotel, see if your charter company offers "sleep-aboard" rates that not only cut your costs, but also allow you to unpack and become familiar with your boat before the actual check-out process. 3. Save on hotels. 10. Be smart about payments. Pay with an airline credit card so you're accruing frequent flyer mileage. A credit card also gives you protection in case of cancellations or problems with your charter. In foreign countries, explore the benefits of paying in local currency, which may give you a savings over the U.S. dollar--even after the conversion costs. 4. Plan economically. In the Caribbean, many skippers start their charters in the U.S. Virgin Islands and then cross to the British Virgins, where our last customs and immigration charges for four people were $160. By starting your cruise in the British Virgins, you enjoy immediate savings. Take your own toys. Bring your own fins, masks and snorkels if they aren't included in the charter. Fins alone rent for $15 a week in the British Virgins, which is more than you'd pay to purchase them at a discount sporting goods store. 11. Anchor out. The Seacure moorings in the Virgin Islands run $20 a night and, depending on the marina, transient moorings run $1 to $1.50 per foot. Hang on the hook and save big. 5. 12. Skip the staples. Many charter companies charge upwards of $15 per person for paper goods alone, which is far more than you'd pay for a week's supply of paper plates, paper towels and toilet paper in a local store. Condiments such as seasonings and spices can be brought from home in small Ziploc bags, so you aren't throwing away expensive packages that have more than you need for your charter. r 6. Be stingy on fuel. Don't run at full throttle, but find a more economical cruising speed. Don't leave the generator running when you're not aboard, either. 59 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 marina watch South Shore Marine commitment to excellence has been the key to success for Huron, Ohio-based South Shore Marine, which sells new and used boats and provides top-notch service to its customers. "We've got the cleanest, best-prepared boats in the region--new or pre-owned," says owner Tom Mack. "If you're buying a boat, your expectations are very high. The level of service should match the money you're spending." That philosophy seems to be working. South Shore Marine has been recognized as a Top 100 Dealer by Boating Industry magazine for five consecutive years. "We're also Marine Industry Certified," Mack adds. Located in the Sandusky Bay area near the Lake Erie Islands, South Shore Marine is truly at the heart of Lake Erie boating. Its highway location gives it high visibility to passing traffic--important when half of its customers come from out of state. And it leases 12 docks as a staging area for service and storage customers at Mariner Village Marina in Sawmill Creek Resort, which is less than a five-minute-drive away. South Shore Marine's roots are in service, which remains a key part of its operation today. It was founded in 1989 and at the time offered just cleaning and detailing services. It branched out into boat sales in the early-1990s. Today, the facility offers full mechanical services, general Providing sandusky Bay with impeccable boats and service. by colle e n h . trou pi s A South Shore Marine 1611 sawmill Parkway Huron, OH 44839 419-433-5798 southshoremarine.com repairs, complete detailing, full reconditioning services, subcontracted canvas and interiors, complete electronics installation and approximately 50,000 square feet of heated storage. Although the facility is more than 20 years old, you'd never know from looking at it. "It's a very modernized facility," Mack says, referring to the concrete surfaces, large heated showrooms that make year-round visits possible and recently completed renovation of the sales and service area. "Everything is very nice and clean--the facility and the products," Mack says. "Our used boats are select pre-owned boats, and they're typically cleaner than most people's new boats." When it comes to sales, South Shore Marine focuses on high-end, privately owned products. All used boats have undergone a comprehensive, 100-plus-item checklist to ensure everything is perfect. "It gives buyers a very high level of assurance," Mack says. "We spare no expense." Their dealer network includes Carolina Classic, Rampage, Regal, Scout and Pursuit, a line that was just added in October. "That's a very new and exciting relationship," Mack says. "Pursuit's roots are in the Midwest, and we're very honored to be part of their family." r PHOTOs By DAvE MuLL 60 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 FANTASTIC FORMULA FACTORY CLOSEOUT! Great values on remaining new boats $304,900 2009 Formula 370 SS $564,900 2008 Formula 45 Yacht $188,900 2008 Formula 350SS $178,900 2008 Formula 353FT $98,900 2008 Formula 292FT $84,900 2008 Formula 271FT $72,900 2008 Formula 260BR $158,900 2007 Formula 31PC Exceptional values on lightly pre-owned Formulas too $198,900 2006 Formula 37PC $189,900 2007 Formula 34PC $123,900 2006 Formula 330SS $179,900 2008 Formula 31PC $168,900 2006 Formula 353FT $59,900 2005 Formula 292FT $88,900 2007 Formula 292FT Bald Knob Marina Beautiful location on Pistakee Lake Dry Stack Storage with Daily In/Out Service Factory Trained & Authorized Service Department Premium Floating Wet Slips with Dock Side Services Gasoline Sales Dock-N-Shop Ship's and Convenience Store Visit www.baldknobmarina.com for complete listings. 515 Bald Knob Rd. Johnsburg, IL 60051 815.344.5223 www.baldknobmarina.com Authorized FerrettiGroup Dealer for the Great Lakes & Chicagoland FERRETTI 570 FERRETTI 53 2009 RIVA 75 - USED MOCHICRAFT 44 For more information or to set up an appointment, contact Elite Yachts or Barbara Walsh www.yachtworld.com/eliteyachtbrokerage | 630.887.1478 | Cell 630.235.0227 | email@example.com A Complete Line of New & Pre-owned Yachts 75' 69' 67' 61' 58' 56' 56' 54' 53' 50' 46' 46' 46' 46' 45' 44' 44' 42' 42' 41' 2009 2009 1989 2002 2000 1999 2005 1999 1994 2001 1979 1985 1999 2004 2007 2005 2007 1990 2007 2001 Riva Venere, T-MTU 10V Dsls, 1524HP .................................$ 3,500,000 Marquis 690, 8V2000 MTU, 1200HP ......................................$ 2,499,000 Hatteras Cockpit MY, T-12V71TA Detroit Dsls, 770HP........$ 595,000 Sunseeker 61 Predator, T-V10 MAN, 1050HP .......................$ 825,000 Sea Ray 580 Super Sun Sport, T-3406 Caterpillars, 800HP ...$ 499,900 Sea Ray 560 Sedan Bridge, T-3406 Caterpillars .....................$ 449,000 Carver 56 Voyager, T-D12 EVC Volvo, 675HP .......................$ 649,500 Sea Ray 540 Sundancer, T-3196 Caterpillars, 660HP .............$ 299,000 Ocean 53 Super Sport, T-8V92 Detroit Dsls, 760HP .............$ 395,000 Cruisers 5000 Sport Sedan, T-74P TAMD Volvos, 480HP ....$ 379,000 Hatteras Sport Fisherman, T-8V71T1 Detroit Dsls, 425HP....$ 137,500 Viking 46 Convertible, T-892 Detroit Diesels, 675HP...........$ 129,000 Sea Ray 46 Sundancer, T-Diamond Series Cummins, 450HP...$ 180,000 Carver 46 MY, T-TAMD 75P EDC Volvo Diesels ..................$ 380,000 Formula 45 Yacht, T-Volvo Pentas, 575HP .............................$ 495,000 Carver 444 Cockpit Motor Yacht, T-D6 Volvos, 370HP ........$ 289,000 Cruisers 447 Sport Sedan, T-6LY3-ETP Yanmars, 480HP ....$ 499,000 Sea Ray 420 Sundancer, T-3208 Caterpillars, 375HP .............$ 79,900 Rinker 420 EC, T-496 HO Mercs, Bravo III, 420HP ..............$ 199,000 Sea Ray 410 Sundancer, T-8.1 S Merc Horizons, 370HP.......$ 154,900 40' 39' 38' 38' 37' 37' 36' 36' 36' 35' 34' 33' 33' 33' 32' 31' 30' 29' 29' 28' 2000 1987 2002 1999 1998 2004 2001 2006 1992 1997 1980 1996 1999 2003 1998 1992 1980 2003 1999 2008 Carver 406 Aft Cabin, T-Cummins, 330HP.............................$ Sea Ray 390 Express Cruiser, T-454 Mercs, 340HP ..............$ Regal 3860 Commodore, T-8.1 Gxi Volvos, 420HP ................$ Sea Ray 380 Sundancer, T-7.4L Mercs, 380HP ......................$ Sea Ray 370 Aft Cabin, T-7.4L Merc Horizons, 380HP .........$ Larson Cabrio 370 Midcabin, T-8.1 HO Mercs, 420HP ........$ Trojan 360 Exp.Cruiser, T-Merc MX 6.2 MPI Hrzn, 320HP...$ Carver 36 Mariner, T-Crusaders, 375HP................................$ Four Winns 365 Express, T-Fords, 460HP .............................$ Carver 350 Mariner, T-350 Crusaders, 320HP.......................$ Mainship 34 Trawler, single Perkins diesel, 160HP ..............$ Sea Ray 330 Sundancer, T-454 Mercs, 310HP ........................$ Cruisers 3375 Esprit, T-7.4L Mercs, 310HP ...........................$ Wellcraft Coastal, T-8.1L Mercs, 370HP .................................$ Wellcraft 3200 Martinique, T-Mercs, 260HP..........................$ Tiara 3100 Open, T-454 Mercs, 330HP ...................................$ Sea Ray 300 Weekender, T-Mercs, 260HP .............................$ Four Winns 298 Vista Cruiser, T-5.0 GXi/DP Volvos, 270HP . $ Sea Ray 290 Sundancer, T-5.7L EFI Mercs, 260Hp ...............$ Maxum 2700 SE, single Merc Bravo III sterndrive, 320HP .$ 160,000 49,000 139,900 122,900 120,000 139,900 95,000 175,000 59,900 79,900 25,000 57,900 54,900 84,900 55,000 49,900 16,900 69,900 42,900 55,900 Come to Manitowoc, Wisconsin We Sell the Dreams, You Build the Memories! More trawlers at one location than anywhere in the Midwest IDEAL GREAT LOOP & FRESH WATER TRAWLERS NEW BOATS American Tugs 525, 435, 395, 365 41 Camano 2011 $50,000 off new order 31 Camano 2006 $189,000 29 Ranger Tug 2010 $239,500 27 Ranger Tug 2011 with trailer $191,000 25 Ranger Tug 2008 with trailer $137,000 NEW BOATS BROKERAGE BOATS 21 Ranger Tug 2010 with trailer $63,000 65 Custom Trawler 1998 $585,000 45 CHB Sedan 1981 $119,000 43 Saberline 1996 $375,000 42 Nordic Tug 1999 $339,000 42 Grand Banks 1993 $289,000 42 Grand Banks 1987 $219,000 42 Grand Banks 1977 $119,000 42 Ocean Alexander 1996 $205,000 41 American Tug 2006 $395,000 41 Lindmark 1987 $105,000 40 Ocean Alexander 1983 $109,900 37 Great Harbour 1996 $279,000 37 Custom Steel 1986 $110,000 36 Heisier Lobsterboat 2000 $139,000 36 Grand Banks 1984 $145,000 36 Grand Banks 1973 $63,900 32 Grand Banks 1990 $135,000 SOLD 32 Cheoy Lee 1983 $64,000 32 Island Gypsy 1983 $59,900 31 Camano 2003 $139,000 31 Blue Seas 1988 $94,500 26 Glacier Bay 2007 with trailer $109,500 26 Glacier Bay 2005 with trailer $94,500 26 Nordic Tug 1981 with trailer $75,000 21 Ranger Tug 2007 with trailer $47,000 21 Ranger Tug 2006 with trailer $45,000 Ask for our marketing plan and list your trawler with us. *Please note the location of the brokerage boat in the website listing: at Manitowoc or at the owner's location www.trawlersmidwest.com � 920-894-2632 � 866-375-1633 Windy City Yacht Brokerage, llC 85 Brokers 800 Listings 20 Offices We post all listings on 16 different multiple listings. 1997 70' nePtunus my 1110HP 12V92 detroits, 2 jet sKis tender, tHrusters, staBilizers $799,000 1988 55' oCean suPer sPort 735HP detroit 8V92s, HeaVy renoVations. looKs great $235,000 1971 54' striKer sPort Fisherman 550HP detroit 1271s, many new uPgrades, 18' Beam, al Hull $225,000 SiSter Ship 1980 53' hatteras CLassiC 435HP detroit 8V71s, Bow & stern tHrusters, wHaler/25HP, naiad, 2 furunos $159,000 1966 48' steeL Chris CraFt roamer $200K restoration in 2004, new modern CHiC design $189,000 1991 44' Lee WiLbur Custom 375HP Cat 3208s, Hull Blue awlgriP, suPer struCture wHite awlgriP, fanatiCally maintained $299,000 1986 36' Carver 3607 aFt CBn 350HP Crusaders, gen 2 srs, 2 Heads, 2 Helms great PriCe fresHwater $37,900 1992 36' bayLiner 3688 200HP Hino dsls, straigHt driVes, Very Clean, new uPgrades fresHwater $90,000 2003 32' sea ray 320 sundanCer merC 300HP mag V driVes 410 Hours, generator, radar, fresHwater $92,500 SiSter Ship 2003 32' reGaL 3260 Commodore VolVo 320HP 5.7l V driVes only 240 Hours, generator, fresHwater $89,000 1991 31' sea ray sundanCer t-310HP V driVes, only 530 Hrs., furuno radar, garmin gPs, aC, windlass fresHwater $18,000 1990 30' Carver 30 santeGo twin merC 260HP 5.7l alPHa one 550 Hrs, exCePtionally Clean, fresHwater $24,900 2005 30' bayLiner 305 twin merCs, Blue Hull, 11' Beam windlass, Clean fresHwater $49,000 1998 28' sea ray ss single 385HP merC w/205 Hrs. VaCuflusH Head 9'6" Beam fresHwater $34,900 2000 27' Grady White 272 twin 200HP yamaHas, 782 Hrs, aC, Head, ComP galley, trailer inCluded $49,000 www.WindyCityYachts.com � Jeff Pierce, CPYB � 312-440-9500 Email: email@example.com Live out your dream on the water Let WaLstrom marine take you there... marine marketplace Tiara 5800 Sovran � Now in Stock walStrom.Com Harbor SpringS, MI 231-526-2141 | CHeboygan, MI 231-627-7105 | bay Harbor, MI 231-439-2741 NEW PRODUCTS: POWER Sea Ray � Boston Whaler � Hunt Yachts � Zodiac PORTSIDE YACHT BROKERS Serving Midwest Boaters Since 1978 56' 1963 Chris Craft Roamer, ........................ 109,900 50' 1993 Sea Ray Sundancer ........................ 189,000 46' 1975 Bertram Convertible ....................... 165,000 45' 1989 Viking Convertible ........................... 249,900 43' 1979 Viking Fly Bridge Motor Yacht........ 69,900 43' 1985 Hatteras Motor Yacht ..................... 189,500 42' 1986 Chris Craft 422 Convertible ............ 119,000 42' 1967 Chris Craft Commander DC.............. 39,500 42' 1975 Bertram Flybridge Motor Yacht .... 129,900 41' 1998 Formula PC ....................................... 119,000 41' 1986 Egg Harbor Convertible .................... 89,900 40' 1992 Sea Ray Express Cruiser................ 89,900 39' 1996 Trojan 390 Express Cruiser ............ 104,900 38' 1989 Sea Ray Aft Cabin ............................. 89,900 38' 2001 PowerQuest Avenger ....................... 95,000 38' 1987 Chris Craft 381 Catalina .................... 69,900 38' 1982 Chris Craft Corinthian ....................... 49,900 37' 1998 Sea Ray Aft Cabin ........................... 149,900 37' 1995 Sea Ray 370 Sundancer ................... 76,900 36' 1994 Formula 36 PC .................................... 76,500 33' 1984 Trojan Sedan ...................................... 39,900 34' 1989 Carver Santego.................................. 29,900 33' 1984 Trojan 10 Meter Sedan ..................... 39,500 32' 1983 Carver Aft Cabin ................................ 27,900 31' 1980 Wellcraft 310 Suncruiser ................. 12,500 31' 1983 Tiara Convertible ............................... 39,900 31' 1981 Sea Ray Vanguard Express ............. 23,900 30' 1986 Sea Ray 300 Sundancer ................... 26,900 SAIL Alerion Express � J-Boat � Precision � Laser Performance LIFESTYLE Patagonia � O'Brien � Puma � Gill � Rip Curl � Slam For complete specs and additional photos visit www.IrishBoatShop.com Mitch Jordan n Jeff Allen n Bruce Brooks 30' 1996 Rinker 300 Fiesta Vee ....................... 39,900 29' 1985 Marinette 29 Sedan Bridge ............. 12,900 29' 2000 Four Winns 298 Vista ........................ 59,900 27' 1994 Four Winns 278 Vista ........................ 24,900 26' 1977 Trojan Express Chrysler ................... 12,900 26' 1988 Starcraft 261 V ..................................... 6,500 25' 1986 Tiara Pursuit 2550 WA ...................... 11,900 23' 1999 Four Winns 238 Vista ........................ 17,900 22' 1982 SISU Motor Launch .......................... 19,900 20' 1999 Malibu Sportster LX ......................... 14,990 56' 1977 Irwin Custom Ketch ....................... 155,900 44' 1980 Miller Marine Center Cpk ................ 89,900 44 1986 Mason Cutter .................................... 219,900 43' 1986 Beneteau First 435 ............................ 79,900 41' 1983 Nelson Marek .................................... 59,900 41' 2001 Hunter 410 ........................................ 139,900 41' 1984 C&C 41................................................ 94,500 37' 1980 Irwin MK III ........................................ 59,900 37' 1978 Irwin MK III ........................................ 39,900 37' 1981 Endeavour .......................................... 44,900 37' 1939 Alden Coastwise Cruiser ................ 84,900 36' 1981 Schock New York 36 ......................... 31,000 36' 1981Ericson Universal ............................... 38,900 35' 1974 Chris Craft Caribbean ....................... 35,000 35' 2003 Catalina 350 Universal ................... 119,500 34' 1986 Catalina C-34 ...................................... 46,900 34' 1980 C&C...................................................... 29,900 POWER 2005 Rosborough RF-246 42' 36' 36' 36' 34' 30' 29' 28' 28' 28' 26' 25' Duffy 42 Cruiser `99............................... $389,000 Sea Ray 360 Sundancer `04 ................ $167,500 Monk 36 Trawler '01 .......................... $229,000 Tiara 3600 Open '87 ............................. $54,900 Sea Ray 340 Sedan Bridge `85 ............. $36,000 Regal 3060 `06 .......................................... $79,900 Tiara 2900 Coronet `07 ......................... $129,500 Sea Ray 280 Bow Rider `00 ................... $29,995 Sea Ray 280 Bow Rider `97 ................... $25,000 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer `03 .................. $68,500 Glacier Bay 2670 Isle Runner `07 ......... $94,000 Chris Craft Sportsman `48 ................... $120,000 2001 Monk 36 Trawler 25' Rosborough RF-246 `05 .......................... $79,500 23' Bayliner 2350 Capri '00 .......................... $11,995 22' Sea Ray Seville 21 '88 ........................... $5,500 21' GLBBS Zimmer Launch `09 ................... $40,000 20' Bayliner 2050 Capri '00 ............................ $9,900 18' Boston Whaler 18 Outrage '81 .......... $14,900 18' Herreshoff Pilot 18 '74........................... $9,500 17' Boston Whaler 17' Striper '89............ $22,400 17' Assembled Beach Cruiser `08 ................ $6,900 16' Chris Craft Deluxe `41............................. $27,900 13' Boston Whaler 13 Sport '71 ................. $8,900 SAIL 13000 Stover Rd. Charlevoix MI 49720 PH 616-850-7678 � FAX 616-850-7679 e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com web: yachtworld.com/portsideyachtbrokers 915 W. SAVIDGE � SPRING LAKE, MI 49456 231-547-9967 400 Bay Street Harbor Springs MI 49740 email@example.com firstname.lastname@example.com 231-526-6225 www.IrishBoatShop.com 67 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 marine marketplace Experience the Spring Brook Difference! DEMO BOAT OF THE MONTH 2011 Cruisers 48 Cantius 85 94 05 96 85 92 00 87 87 94 90 90 08 89 88 07 07 09 25' 27' 27' 28' 28' 29' 29' 32' 32' 32' 33' 33' 35' 36' 36' 37' 42' 43' PRE-OWNED BOATS Sea Ray 250 Sundancer w/260, Merc ........................................................................9,900 Wellcraft 2700 Martinque w/7.4L Merc ...................................................................19,900 Sea Ray 270 Amberjack w/350 MAG MPI BRIII .......................................................49,900 Bayliner 2855 Ciera w/7.4L Merc BRIII.....................................................................24,900 Bayliner Contessa w/260 HP Volvo.............................................................................9,900 Sea Ray 290 Sundancer w/7.4 Bravo II 310HP Merc ....................................................24,900 Chaparral Signature w/T-4.3L Volvos .......................................................................49,900 Chris Craft Amerosport T-350 Crusaders ..................................................................24,900 Carver Mariner w/T-270HP Crusaders ......................................................................39,500 Wellcraft 3200 Martinique w/5.7L Merc ..................................................................39,900 Trojan 10 Meter Express w/T-454 Crusaders ...........................................................34,900 Donzi Center Console w/T-250 Johnsons .................................................................19,900 Carver Mariner w/T-5.7 MPI Crusaders ..................................................................229,000 Regal 360 Commodore w/T-7.4L Mercs ...................................................................44,900 Carver Aft Cabin w/T-340 HP Crusaders .....................................................................49,900 Cruisers 370 Express w/T-Yanmar Dsls ...................................................................279,000 Rinker 420 Express w/T-496 HO Mercruiser BRIII ..................................................199,000 Carver 43 Super Sport w/T-IPS 500 Volvos ............................................................499,000 07 05 97 06 95 00 04 88 90 02 02 07 85 99 01 03 04 94 02 03 04 2007 Cruisers 37 Express w/Diesels $279,000 30' 31' 32' 32' 33' 33' 33' 35' 35' 35' 35' 35' 36' 36' 36' 36' 36' 38' 38' 38' 39' BROKERED BOATS Cruisers 300 Cxi w/T-225 HP GXI SX Volvos ............................................................84,500 Formula PC w/T-6.2L Mercs ....................................................................................119,900 Carver 325 Aft Cabin w/T-350XL Crusaders .............................................................54,900 Cruisers 320 Express w/T-6.2 MPI Mercs ...................................................................99,500 Sea Ray 330 Sundancer w/T-7.4L Mercs .................................................................59,000 Wellcraft 3300 Martinique w/T-7.4L Mercs .............................................................74,900 Chaparral 330 Signature w/T-350 MAG MPI BRIII .................................................119,000 Mainship Convertible w/T-454 Crusaders ................................................................49,500 Sea Ray 350 Express w/T-7.4L Mercs ......................................................................39,900 Carver 356 Aft Cabin w/T-7.4L Mercs ....................................................................129,900 Carver 350 Mariner w/T-6.2 MPI 320 Mercs............................................................89,000 Rinker 350 Express w/T-350 MAG MPI BRIII Mercs ..............................................134,500 Carver Aft Cabin w/T-454 CID Crusaders ....................................................................39,900 Carver 36 Mariner w/T-350 Mag Mercs......................................................................74,900 Trojan 360 Express w/T-454 Mag MPI Mercs.............................................................99,000 Carver 360 Sport Sedan w/T-8.1GI Volvos ................................................................172,500 Carver 360 Mariner w/T-6.0L MPI Crusaders .........................................................159,000 Carver 380 Santego w/T-7.4 Mercs ..........................................................................63,000 Carver 380 Santego w/T-6.2L Mercs ........................................................................99,000 Sea Ray 380 Sundancer w/T-8.1L Mercruisers ......................................................169,900 Silverton MY w/T-3126 CATS .................................................................................279,900 05 05 01 03 07 08 85 07 05 95 93 01 03 07 01 86 03 93 05 03 09 39' 39' 40' 40' 40' 40' 42' 42' 44' 44' 44' 44' 44' 44' 45' 48' 50' 56' 56' 57' 69' Cruisers 52 Carver 396 Aft Cabin w/T-8.1 GI Volvos .................................................................319,000 Carver 396 Motor Yacht w/T-8.1 GI Volvos ............................................................289,000 Sea Ray Sedan w/T-3126 Cats ...............................................................................255,000 Cruisers 405 Express Bridge w/T-370 HP Volvo Dsls .............................................215,000 Cruisers 415 Express MY w/T-8.1GXI Volvos .........................................................399,000 Marquis Sport Coupe w/T-D6 Series IPS 370HP ....................................................569,000 Grand Banks Trawler w/T-3208 Caterpillars ..........................................................125,000 Carver 42 SS w/T-IPS370 HP Volvo Dsls ................................................................379,900 Carver 444 CMY w/T-D6 Volvo Dsls .......................................................................289,000 Carver 440 Aft Cabin w/T-420 HP Cummins...........................................................229,900 Carver 440 MY w/T-3116TA CATS .........................................................................169,900 Carver 444 CMY w/T-370 Cummins........................................................................219,000 Carver 444 CMY w/T-63P Volvo Dsls .....................................................................295,000 Cruisers 447 Sport Sedan w/T-480 HP Yanmars ....................................................499,000 Silverton 453 MY w/T-450 HP Cummins ................................................................329,000 Chris Craft 480 Catalina w/T-350 HP Crusaders ....................................................104,900 Cruisers 5000 Sedan w/T-715 HP D12 Volvos ..............................................................399,000 Skipperliner Intracoastal w/T-5.7L Mercs ....................................................................89,000 Carver Voyager w/T-D12 EVC Volvos ..........................................................................649,500 Carver 570 Voyager w/T-QSM11-635 Cummins .....................................................579,000 Marquis 690 w/T-1200 HP MTU's .......................................................................2,499,000 Ph: 815-357-8666 I www.springbrookmarina.com I Fax: 815-357-8678 68 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 marine marketplace NORTH SHORE MARINA Year Round Full Service Marina 821 W. Savidge, Spring Lake, MI 49456 Ph: 616-604-0234 Marina 616-842-1488 � www.northshoremarina.com More than 100 new & used, brokerage and bank-repossessed boats available See our website for complete listings Cruisers 330 Express In-Stock Select Pre-Owned / BrOkerage / rePOSSeSSIOnS / call FOr cOMPlete lISt 43' `97 Carver 430 Cockpit Motoryacht Clean, Well Equipped T-315 Cummins...............189,900 40' 03 Cruisers 405 MY, washer/dryer, full elect. low hrs and clean, T-8.1 ..........234,900 40' `89 Luhrs Convertible, ready to fish, owner purchased new boat, T-7.4 ........... 74,900 38' `00 Cruisers 3870 electronics Air/Heat, Gen, T-385 Horizons ............................. 149,900 37' 92 Carver 3608/370 Aft Cabin Hardtop, wing doors, elect. sharp! T-7.4............ 74,900 37' `99 Carver 374 Voyager, one meticulous owner, well equipped, ready! ......... 129,900 34' `85 Sea Ray Sedan Bridge, dual helms, autopilot, canvas, T-7.4......................... 22,900 32' `99 Trojan/Carver Express 1 owner, super clean, T-5.7 MAGS............................ 56,900 28' `74 Bertram Flybridge, nice freshwater condition rebuilt engines ...................... 24,900 26' `05 Sea Ray Sundancer AC, Full Canvas, Blue Hull Sharp! Merc 350 Mag................49,900 24' `98 2470 Pursuit Center Console Trailer, T-Top, Porta Potti T-Yamaha 150HP ......... 29,900 24' `08 Sportcraft Center Console, T-Top, 1 owner, freshwater 250HP, Yamaha... 52,900 rePO'S 28' `06 Rinker 282 BR 30' `99 Bayliner Express 33' `02 Proline 33' `85 Trojan 11 Meter 34' `03 Rinker342 FiestaVee 34' `93 Carver Santego 35' `06 Regal 3560 36' `88 Regal 39' `07 Cruisers 395 MY 42' `07 Carver Super Sport MORE ARRiVing wEEklY! 55' 50' 47' 42' 41' 40' 40' 40' 40' 40' 38' 36' 36' 36' 35' 34' 34' 31' 31' 30' 30' 30' 27' 26' 25' 24' 36' 36' 35' 35' 34' 32' 30' 30' '90 '03 '70 '87 '97 '08 '10 '87 '96 '08 '00 '87 '73 '86 '85 '98 '01 '89 '85 '89 '81 '93 '02 '90 '04 '94 `99 `00 `77 `76 `77 `05 `73 `84 Fleming Pilothouse Motor Yacht...................... $495,000 Sea Ray Sundancer 50......................................... 449,000 Chris-Craft Commander ......................................... 48,000 Jefferson 42 Sundeck .......................................... 129,900 Maxum 4100 SCR .................................................. 119,900 Fathom Expedition ................................................ 425,000 Fathom Element .................................................... 395,500 Silverton AFT CABIN .............................................. 49,900 Sea Ray EC ............................................................... 99,900 Fathom Expedition ................................................ 499,000 Sea Ray Sundancer.............................................. 129,900 Grand Banks 36 Classic ....................................... 154,900 Trojan Convertable ................................................. 19,900 Regal 36 .................................................................... 25,900 Viking Convertible ................................................... 84,900 Nordic Tug 32......................................................... 175,000 Powerquest 340 Vyper 2001 .................................. 91,000 Tiara FLybridge ........................................................ 59,900 Island Packet IP 31 ................................................. 49,000 Sea Ray Weekender............................................... 33,000 Carver AFT CABIN .................................................. 19,900 Sea Ray 300 Sundancer......................................... 29,900 Sea Ray SunDeck ................................................... 49,000 Wellcraft Prima 2600 .............................................. 17,000 Aylward 25 "Rosborough Style Trawler" ............ 39,900 Maxum 2400 SCR .................................................... 14,900 SaIl Catalina 36 MkII .................................................... 110,000 Catalina MkII 2000 .................................................. 99,900 Hallberg-Rassy Rasmus ........................................ 39,900 Hallberg-Rassy Rasmus ........................................ 42,000 Tartan Centerboard ............................................... 26,000 Beneteau 323 ........................................................... 79,900 Pearson ...................................................................... 9,900 Catalina 30 ............................................................... 27,900 email@example.com � Traverse City, MI 49684 Call Bill Allgaier office: 231-933-5414 � cell: 231-218-1227 69 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 marine marketplace 2007 RaybuRn 92 skylounge 1994, 2000 & 2005 HatteRas 50' ConveRtible Grand Haven, MI Contact Brent Reed (616) 402-0180 Lasalle, MI Contact Paul Reed (419) 304-4962 2007 gRand banks 49 eastbay sx 2005 & 2006 tiaRa 4200 open 17' 28' 28' 29' 29' 30' 30' 31' 31' 32' 36' 36' 36' 36' 37' 38' 38' 38' 41' 42' 42' 2006 1996 2001 2007 2006 2007 2008 1995 1997 2007 1986 1988 1989 1986 1995 1988 2001 2003 1967 1987 2005 Boston Whaler 170 Montauk S-Mercury 90 hp 4-Stroke .....................$ Pursuit 2870 Offshore C.C. T-Yamaha 225 VX, 225 hp ...........................$ Pursuit 2870 Offshore C.C. T-Mercury Optimax, 225 hp ........................$ Hydra-Sports 2900 Center Console T-Evinrude ETEC, 250 hp ..............$ Tiara 2900 Classic T-Crusader 6.0 MPI, 375 hp ......................................$ Tiara 3000 Open T-Crusader 8.1 MPI, 385 hp..........................................$ Tiara 3000 Open T-Crusader 6.0 MPI, 375 hp..........................................$ Tiara 3100 Open - Hardtop T-Crusader 454 XLI, 320 hp ........................$ Tiara 3100 Open T-Crusader 454 XLI, 320 hp ..........................................$ CABO 32 Express T-Caterpillar C-7, 461hp ..............................................$ Hatteras 36 Sedan T-Crusader 7.4 ltr., 350 hp ........................................$ Mainship 36 Double Cabin T-Crusader 350 5.7L, 270 hp .......................$ Tiara 3600 Convertible T-Crusader 350hp ...............................................$ Trojan F-36 Convertible T-Crusader 350's ...............................................$ Tiara 3700 Open T-Caterpillar, 3208, 435hp .............................................$ Hatteras 38 Convertible T-Detroit Diesels, 6V-71TI ...............................$ Cruisers 3870 Express T-Mercruiser 8.1 ltr. HO, 425 hp .......................$ Powerquest 380 Avenger T-Mercruiser 496 MAG HO, 475hp .............$ Hatteras 41' Motor Yacht T-Detroit Diesel 6V53N 216 hp ...................$ Chris Craft 42' Commander T-Detroit Diesel 6V71TI's...........................$ Tiara 4200 Open - Plan A T-Cummins QSM11, 660 hp...........................$ www.reedyachtsales.com 21,500 49,900 64,900 84,900 129,900 179,900 192,900 89,900 89,900 309,900 79,900 57,900 86,500 49,500 139,900 164,000 149,900 115,000 79,900 119,900 419,900 42' 43' 43' 43' 44' 44' 45' 46' 48' 48' 48' 49' 50' 50' 50' 50' 52' 58' 58' 60' 92' 2006 1975 1995 2008 1984 2006 2000 1985 1988 1994 2004 2007 1988 1994 2000 2005 1999 1978 1985 2000 2007 Tiara 4200 Open - Plan C T-Cummins QSM11, 660 hp ...........................$ 479,900 Hatteras 43 Flybridge MY T-Cummins VT903, 320hp .............................$ 99,900 Tiara 4300 Open T-Detroit Diesels 6V92's, 550 hp..................................$ 229,900 Tiara 4300 Sovran T-Volvo IPS 600, 435 hp .............................................$ 499,900 Viking 44' Motor Yacht T-Detroit Diesels 671, 450 hp ...........................$ 169,900 Tiara 4400 Sovran T-Caterpillar C-12, 715 hp..........................................$ 524,900 Silverton 453 Motor Yacht T-Cummins QSM 11, 535hp.........................$ 229,900 Ocean 46 Sunliner T-Detroit Diesel, 6-71's .............................................$ 119,900 Ocean 48 Super Sport T-Detroit Diesel 6-71's, 485hp ...........................$ 169,900 Hatteras 48' Cockpit MY T-Detroit Diesel 6V92, 535 hp ........................$ 249,900 Silverton 48' Convertible T-Caterpillar C-12, 700 hp ..............................$ 449,000 Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX T-Caterpillar C-12, 715 hp ........................$ 799,900 Bertram 50' Convertible T-Detroit Diesel 8V-92 735 hp.........................$ 449,000 Hatteras 50' Convertible T-Detroit Diesel 12V-71TA DDEC, 900 hp ....$ 399,900 Hatteras 50' Convertible T-Caterpillar 3406E, 800 bhp ..........................$ 565,000 Hatteras 50' Convertible T-Caterpillar C-18, 1000 bhp ..........................$ 899,900 Hatteras 52' Cockpit MY T-Caterpillar 3406E, 800 bhp ..........................$ 499,900 Hatteras 58' Motor Yacht T-Detroit Diesel 8V92 TA's, 550hp ..............$ 299,900 Hatteras 58' Motor Yacht T-Detroit Diesel 8V92 TA's, 650 hp .............$ 349,000 Hatteras 60' Convertible T-Caterpillar, 3412, 1350 hp............................$ 974,500 Rayburn 92' Skylounge T-Caterpillar C30, 1550 hp ................................$5,500,000 70 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Captain's ChoiCe Lake Michigan Cover plot.2007.qxp Onekama, MI 231-889-5000 marine marketplace $ 39.95 Online Special! 4/13/07 4:32 PM Page 1 www.onekamamarine.com Lakeland Boating's Lake Michigan PORTS O' CALL RY UP POR T GO TO-D WIT ING ATE H A E L SO UT ISTIN RIALS HG UID GS E EVE Lake Michigan P O R T S O ' C A L L Manistique P.182 Gladstone P.188 Escanaba P.188 Cedar River P.192 Sister Bay P.232 Menominee P.194 Marinette P.194 Oconto P.198 Egg Harbor P.222 Green Bay P.204 Fayette P.185 Beaver Island P.146 St. Ignace P.178 Mackinaw City P.170 Mackinac Island P.174 Bay Harbor, MI 231-439-2675 Vol.5 VISIT www.lakelandboating.com FOR ONLINE UPDATES 2007 Lakeland Boating's Lake Ellison Bay P.236 Harbor Springs P.164 Bay Harbor P.158 Petoskey P.160 Washington Island P.238 Charlevoix P.140 Boyne City P.154 Rowley Bay P.244 East Jordan P.150 Northport P.122 Ephraim P.229 Fish Creek P.225 Omena/Suttons Bay P.126 South Manitou Island P.117 Elk Rapids P.136 Baileys Harbor P.246 Leland P.116 Acme P.134 Sturgeon Bay P.212 Traverse City P.130 Frankfort/Elberta P.110 Algoma P.250 Arcadia P.107 Portage Lake P.104 www.lakemichiganyachtsales.com Kewaunee P.254 Two Rivers P.257 Manitowoc P.260 Manistee P.100 Ludington P.96 Sheboygan P.264 Pentwater P.92 Port Washington P.268 White Lake P.86 NEW 2009 Milwaukee P.272 Muskegon P.82 Grand Haven P.76 Port Sheldon P.72 RivieRa Yachts 4400 sport Yacht T-Volvo D6 iPs 600, 435HP with Joystick Michigan Ports o' Call Racine P.278 Kenosha P.282 Winthrop Harbor P.286 Waukegan P.290 Great Lakes Naval Training Center P.294 Wilmette P.296 Holland P.68 Saugatuck/Douglas P.62 South Haven P.58 St. Joseph/Benton Harbor P.52 New Buffalo P.48 Michigan City P.44 Portage P.39 Chicago P.22 Hammond P.37 East Chicago P.39 Chicago Going South Illinois River P.298 Section 1: Section 2: Section 3: Section 4: Section 5: Southern Lake Michigan Eastern Shore of Lake Michigan Northern Lake Michigan Western Shore of Lake Michigan Chicago to the Gulf of Mexico NEW online supplement to the cruising guides at lakelandboating.com 800-589-9491 SavE 10 pErcENt by OrdEriNg ONliNE Order by phone at lakelandboating.com Paducah 2000 41' Carver Yachts 396 MY, w/T-7.4L Merc w/T-370hp ............ 159,900 1994 41' Silverton 41 Convertible w/T-385hp Crusaders .................. 125,000 1977 41' Chris Craft 410 Motor Yacht w/T-8.1., 400hp Crusaders ...... 67,900 2007 40' Riviera Yacht M400 Exp.w/T-496 Mag 375hp BIII O.D .......279,000 2006 40' Riviera Yacht 40 F.B. w/T-Cummins QSC, Diesels............ 440,000 2005 40' Formula 400 Super Sport w/T-350hp Diesel O.D ............... 289,900 1994 40' Tiara 4000 Mid Cabin Exp w/T-435hp 3208 Cats .............. 169,000 Mobile 2003 39' Sea Ray 390 MY w/T-446hp Cummins 480 CE Diesel ...... 249,000 1997 39' Cruisers Yacht 3950 Aft Cabin MY w/T-502 Mercs ........... 149,000 2002 38' Cruisers Yacht 3870 Express w/T-8.1, 370hp MC .............. 154,995 1969 38' Chris Craft Commandar w/T-454, 350hp Crusader .............. 23,500 2007 37' Formula 370 SS w/T-496 Mag MO, 425hp Merc ............... 239,995 1989 36' Cruisers Yacht Esprit 3670 w/T-7.4, 330hp Mercs ................ 64,995 1985 36' Carver 36 Mariner w/T-454, 340hp MerCruisers ............... 45,000 1989 34' Luhrs Tournament 342 w/T-454 Crusaders I.B.'s ................. 26,995 2000 33' Larson Cabrio 330 w/T-7.4 330hp Volvo DP ........................ 79,000 1994 33' Cruisers Yacht 3380 Esprit w/T-330hp Volvo I.B.'s............... 73,995 1985 33' Cruisers Yacht 336 Ultra Vee w/T-270hp Crusaders ............. 29,995 1979 33' Tartan 10 w/10hp Yanmar Diesel Inboard ............................. 14,500 2004 32' Sea Ray DA 320 w/T-300hp Merc FWC MPI & I.B.'s ....... 119,995 1995 32' Baja 320S w/T-365hp MerCruiser 454 Mag BI O.D.s & Trl ....49,900 2001 31' Tiara 3100 Open w/T-7.4 MPI FWC MercCruiser I.B.'s..... 129,000 1994 31' Silverton 310 Express w/T-5.7, 260hp MerCruisers ............. 34,995 1993 31' Sea Ray Amberjack w/T-7.4 310 MerCruiser I.B.'s .............. 44,900 1990 31' Tiara 3100 Open w/T-454, 350hp Crusaders ........................ 68,500 1980 31' Tiara Pursuit 3100 Open w/T-5.7 Crusaders ......................... 59,900 2000 30' Rampage 30 Express w/T-MerCruiser 300hp, 350 ............... 87,900 1988 30' Sea Ray 300 Sundancer w/T-260hp Mercs ........................... 28,995 1992 29' Carver 630 Santego w/T-4.3, LXhp Mercs & Trl.................. 22,900 1986 29' Chris Craft Catalina 294 w/T-220hp Merc I.B.'s I.B.'s & Trl ..25,500 2003 28' Boston Whaler 275 Conquest w/T-225hp Merc O.B.'s ......... 79,995 1994 28' Manitou 28 Limited Pontoon HT w/90hp Evinrude V4 ......... 4,995 1973 28' Sabre Sailboat w/Universal Marine Atomic 4, 30hp IB....... 15,995 1970 28' Slickcraft 285 w/T-230hp Chris Craft I.B.'s .......................... 14,995 2001 27' Larson Cabrio 270 w/280hp Volvo 5.7 GSI DP & Trl .......... 36,995 2006 26' Sea Swirl Striper w/5.0 260hp Merc & Trl ........................... 44,995 2005 26' Regulator 26 w/T-225 hp Yamaha's & Trl ............................. 99,995 2001 26' Four Winns 268 Vista w/5.7, 280hp Volvo OD & Trl ........... 38,500 1987 26' Cruisers Yacht 266 Vee Sport w/454 Merc & Trl .................. 22,995 2006 25' Pursuit 2570 Offshore w/T-150hp Yamaha 4-Strk & Trl ....... 89,900 Tennessee River Tenn-Tom Waterway Pre-owneD BoaTs Mississippi River St. Louis in-sTock Cairo Ohio River Your Pleasure Boat Professionals! 71 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Visit our website to view our complete list of new & over 60 pre-owned boats. marine marketplace A New Level of Luxury & Performance Comes to the Great Lakes Visit The Next Generation of Rivieras. 51 Enclosed Flybridge Boat Loans 1-888-386-3888 Vincent Luzietti Robert Dunford, Jr. Trident Funding BOAT LOANS Lake Effect Financial Services, LLC William Otto, III 2907 S. Horseshoe Dr. Grandville, MI 49418 Flybridge 38' 41' 43' 45' 47' 51' 58' 61' 70' Sport yacht 36' 44' 50 58' open expreSS 43' 48' Purchase Refinance Pre Approval Low Rates 3282 Ogden's Beach Rd. Box 40 Midland, Ontario L4R 4K6 For more information visit us at Doral Marine Resort or call Serving Boat Buyers Nationwide Ph: 616-538-5777 Fax: 866-530-6058 Cell: 216-577-1460 email@example.com Originating agent for: 1-888-446-4545 72 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Propeller Optimization & Repair Bring your propellers to Peak performance � Increase speed � Reduce fuel consumption � Eliminate propeller induced vibration � Enable sync of multiple engines 2401 Sawmill Parkway Suite1 Huron, OH 44839 www.NorthCoastPropTech.com 419-433-9550 18' 24' 23' 26' 26' 26' 28' 28' 32' 33' 33' 33' 34' 35' 36' 1955 1994 1959 1983 1986 1957 2003 2003 1988 1983 2002 1998 2002 1972 1991 Chris Craft Sea Skiff $ 10,500 Chris Craft Concept $ 12,500 Lyman Sportsman $ 8,500 Bertram Express $ 41,500 Sea Ray Sundancer $ 10,500 Chris-Craft Sport Express $ 59,900 Formula 280BR $ 55,000 Chris-Craft Launch $ 54,900 Sea Ray Pachanga $ 24,000 Bertram Flybridge $ 52,000 Formula Sun Sport $ 82,500 Sea Ray Sundancer $ 75,000 Pursuit 3400 Express $ 159,000 Chris-Craft Salon $ 29,900 Tiara Convertible $ 110,000 Fiberglass � Woodworking Storage � Heated Storage www.bergmannmarine.com 36' 36' 36' 37' 37' 37' 37' 39' 40' 40' 41' 42' 42' 42' 43' 55' 1987 1996 1997 1996 1966 1966 1977 1994 1994 1994 1975 2006 1992 2000 1995 1996 Charlevoix, MI 49720 � Phone 231/547-3957 BERGMANN MARINE marine marketplace Tiara Convt w/ Diesels $ 139,900 Saberline Express $ 198,000 Cruisers 3650 $ 120,000 Sea Ray Express $ 87,000 Chris Craft Roamer H/T $ 20,000 Chris Craft Roamer S/T $ 25,000 Endeavour Ketch $ 34,000 Carver 390/404 $ 95,000 Hatteras Double Cabin $ 179,000 Sea Ray Express Diesels $ 125,000 Chris-Craft Motor Yacht $ 59,500 Beneteau Trawler $ 349,000 Sea Ray Sundancer $ 139,000 Provincial Trawler $ 199,500 Tiara 4300 Open $ 199,900 Sea Ray Sedan Bridge $ 180,000 Complete Mechanical Electrical Rigging � Haulout Come see us at the Chicago Boat Show Booth # 3661 We Protect Your Investment! High Performance Bottom Coating � Apply once and it's good for 10 years or more 811 PICKARD, ANTIOCH, IL 60002 AUTOPILOT FOR VALUE-CONCIOUS TROLLERS Starting at $3,600 installed � Increases Speed � Saves Gas � Self Cleaning ComNav Sales & Service by KimKo (847) 395-6452 www.zyrexcoatings.com ALSO SPECIALIZING IN boat rigging, hard-top enclosures, trailer repair and custom trailers. CALL NOW! 269-683-2692 Power Boats Remanufacturerd transmissions in stock. Older transmissions our speciality. Distributors of the Drivesaver flexible couplings and mounts, oil coolers and dampers. 26' `99 Sea Ray Sundancer.......... 37,500 27' `98 Four Winns 278 .................. 42,500 29' `87 Cruisers Sea Devil............. 25,500 29' `04 Four Winns 298 .................. 72,900 29' `94 Sea Ray 290 ........................ 28,900 30' `97 Maxum 3000 SCR............... 42,900 31' `92 Silverton 31C ...................... 40,900 31' `97 Carver 310 EX ..................... 49,900 35' `99 Carver 350 Mariner ......... 102,900 46' `77 Bertam FBMY................... 135,000 36' `82 Carver 3607 Aft .................. 36,500 52' ` 63 Chris Craft Connie ............ 49,500 37' `88 Chris Craft Amerosport .... 49,500 37' `78 Vinette Steel Trawler ........ 49,900 37' `95 Cruisers 377........................ 89,900 38' `88 C.C. 381................................ 79,500 38' `98 Carver 380 Santego........... 89,500 38' `85 Bayliner 3870 ..................... 51,900 40' `94 Mainship Sedan .............. 119,900 Sail Boats 25' `85 Catalina................................. 6,900 27' `73 Catalina ................................. 8,750 27' `77 O'Day ..................................... 6,900 30' `84 O'Day ................................... 24,900 Dealer Inquiries Invited 2706 Portage St., Kalamazoo, MI 49001 � 269-345-0629 32' Wellcraft St. Tropez 4 starting @ 18,900 41' `79 Lindmark Trawler .............. 94,900 30' `95 Catalina MK III ................... 49,900 34' `01 Sea Ray 340 ...................... 105,500 42' `87 Carver Aft ........................... 99,500 32' `78 Endeavor 32 Sloop ............ 26,500 34' `87 Sea Ray Express................ 31,900 42' `82 Bertram FBMY ................ 135,900 32' `94 Sea Ward 32 Eagle............ 43,900 35' `95 Carver 350 Aft .................... 57,900 43' `95 Wellcraft 4350 Portofino 145,000 34' `96 Gemini 105M ..................... 84,950 5309 E. Wilder Rd. Bay City, MI 48706 Ph: 989-684-5010 � email@example.com Details on over 150 listings at www.kellymarinesales.com 73 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 lakeshore life Fort Myers, Florida Own a piece of paradise in the Sunshine State. by colle e n h . trou pi s Gulf Harbour 15301 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908 SpecS Bedrooms: 2 � 5 Baths: 2 � 5 Square Footage: 1,028 � 13,000 Acreage: Approx. 550 acres Shoreline: Approx. 2 miles price: $140,000 � $10 million coNtAct Greg and Jo callaway Gulf Harbour properties LLc 239-565-2766 gulfharbourproperties.com F leeing to warmer climates to escape the chill of winter is a time-tested tradition for many Great Lakes boaters. Indeed, Gulf Harbour, a 550-acre development located along the Intracoastal Waterway in Ft. Myers, Florida, sounds pretty appealing right about now. If so, you're in luck: Approximately 10 to 15 percent of the community's 1,650 residences in 22 neighborhoods are available for sale. And Gulf Harbour has such a vast array of properties, there's bound to be something to suit everyone's tastes--and budgets. "It offers everything from 1,000-square-foot condos to homes with more than 10,000 square feet, all within a gated community," says Greg Callaway, who, along with wife Jo, runs Gulf Harbour Properties LLC, an independent brokerage that sells Gulf Harbour real estate. As 13-year residents and club members of Gulf Harbour, they speak from experience. Situated in southwest Florida just five miles from the Gulf of Mexico and 120 miles from Key West by boat, Gulf Harbour's location can't be beat. "The Intracoastal makes it possible to cruise to dozens of destinations within 30 miles," Callaway says. "It's really a boater's paradise." Some of the homes are so close to the water, Callaway says, "you can hear the lapping on the shore." Others are located more inland, with lake and golf course views. The onsite marina further caters to the needs of boaters. The 186 slips are updated on a regular basis and feature electric, cable and pumpout near each. Slips are not included in the purchase of the homes, but they are available for purchase through Gulf Harbour Properties or for lease through Gulf Harbour Marina. The development itself has been impeccably kept. Some of the homes date back to 1985, while others are about 10 years newer. "The development is better than new," Callaway says. "The master homeowners association invests in the landscaping, common roads and lakes on a regular basis, creating a beautiful environment." The Gulf Harbour Yacht and Country Club does the same, maintaining the 18-hole championship golf course, clubhouse, eight-court tennis facility and health center. There is a beautiful pool and spa overlooking the marina, complete with a tiki bar. The 30,000-square-foot clubhouse includes a restaurant with waterfront dining, golf pro shop and an 18,000square-foot fitness center. Club membership is not mandatory for residents. Gulf Harbour is an active community of primarily retirees and second-home owners. The community is located approximately 10 miles from downtown, and there are several restaurants and shops within walking distance. r 74 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 Gulf Harbour Marina Located on the Intracoastal Waterway in South Ft. Myers Florida Gulf Harbour 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 Lease - 38', 48', 50', 60', 70' and T-Docks � 186 Slips Marina with concrete floating docks, pump-out, cable & electric � JR's Harbourside Caf� open to all residents of Gulf Harbour � Full time marina staff on-site 7 days a week � Gas and diesel fuel available in marina, discount for slip owners � Protected Yacht Basin by Intracoastal Barrier Island GulfHarbourMarina.net � 239-437-0881 Boating@Gulf HarbourMarina.net JR'S HARBOURSIDE CAF� Gulf Harbour Properties � Marina Boat Slips for Sale - 38', 48', 50', 60', 70' and T-Docks � Condominiums and Single Family Homes for sale at all price points � Over 20 neighborhoods homes available 150,000 to over 5 million � Gated community with 24 hours roving security staff � Equity Country Club memberships available if desired: 18 hole. Championship golf course, Tennis complex, Spa-Fitness Center, 30,000 S.F. Clubhouse, Waterfront pool & Tiki Bar, Johnny Browns waterfront restaurant. � Only 5 miles to Beach Islands and 30 minutes to International Airport. Call Us... We are former Midwest residents and Great Lakes cruisers, we live in Gulf Harbour and own a slip for our boat. GulfHarbourProperties.com � 239-565-2766 GREG & JO CALLAWAY RealEstate@Gulf HarbourProperties.com Proper Provisioning Culinary planning for your charter. BY NANCY MEYERS & MARTY RICHARDSON temperature to preserve flavor, but once cut they must be refrigerated. Keep meats frozen and thaw as needed. You may secure fresh seafood along the way, but have canned meats and dry salami as backup. Fresh milk is all right at the start of a trip, and milk may be purchased in non-refrigerated form. 4. What about pots, pans, utensils and small appliances? Ask for a complete list of galley equipment. Usually, you'll find the basics--a coffee maker, pots, pans, toaster and even a blender. Remember: Many galley stoves have less than four burners; if so, you'll need to make do. 5. What should we do with our leftovers? You may have food left at the end of your trip. Don't despair; we've found many bars and restaurants are eager to add to their larders. Take a bag of leftover canned and dry goods--and even refrigerated hamburger or other meats--and trade! On the last day of a cruise we did just that, dinghying into the local watering hole and trading our leftover provisions for a farewell round of pina coladas and conch fritters! B oaters spend an inordinate amount of time and money on the right boat, and, when chartering, the perfect ports-of-call and destination experiences. But what about meals aboard? Captains and crew expect first-rate cuisine to magically appear at the right time, preceded by delectable appetizers and cocktails and followed by some wonderful dessert concoction. Can you do this in a distant and unfamiliar location, on a boat you just boarded? Of course! If you plan in advance, you can provide the ultimate culinary experience. Consider the following as you plan your charter cruise. 1. Should we arrange for full or partial provisions, or shop on our own? Full and partial provisions are easiest, as the charter company provides staples, fresh produce, meat and poultry, and dry goods. Either option is turnkey, but will likely yield some foods you don't particularly care for or wish to use. Full provisions typically provide more than enough food to eat three meals aboard each day, so if you want to dine out consider partial provisioning. 2. What if I can't find ingredients I want locally? Plan ahead! If your must-have favorite appetizer or main dish requires curry, you may not be able to find it locally. Buy a small plastic jar at your home grocer and pack it in your duffel bag; but be aware of importation restrictions. 3. What about produce, meat and dairy products? If you are provisioning for more than a week, remember which items hold up best when stored. In the refrigerator, we've found broccoli and regular (or Napa) cabbage will keep for up to three weeks or more, while asparagus (kept dry and wrapped in tissue paper) needs to be eaten within a few days. Grapes will keep if protected from crushing; apples and citrus have good shelf life if well ventilated. Washed and chilled lettuces can be kept for about one week; if you buy fresh from a farmer's market, they may keep up to two weeks. Onions and potatoes are good staples, but don't store them in the same bin or container, as they will rot. Tomatoes should be stored at room 76 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 JUNG 29 Years specializing in Grand Banks � � � � � Bareboat Charters - Florida west coast Trawler School in association with Sea Sense Located at Sarasota Hotel & Marina Trawler Sizes 32' - 47' New to fleet 42' 2003 Nordic Tug C HA R T E R & YA C HT S A L E S www.boat-charters.com � 1-888-900-0225 8051 N. Tamiami Trial #A-2, Sarasota, FL 34243 PHOTO BY ALEXEY STIOP classifieds: boats for sale 2007 RANGER TUG 21 EC. Perfect condition, Furuno electronics, Yanmar 30hp diesel ready to cruise. $55,000. Bay Breeze Yacht Sales 231-941-5884 1991 TIARA. 31 FT. Twin 260 MerCruiser I/O. Full electronics, many updates, excellent condition, includes trailer. 705-542-5335 JAN11 BB11 37-FT HATTERAS CONVERTIBLE. 1978. Shows newer. 2 staterooms. FreshwaterTeak interior. Motivated. $50,999. 216-570-1787, 440-449-7518, email@example.com JAN11 Reduc ed! 1996 PURSUIT 2460 DENALI. Freshly rebuilt 7.4 Merc with duoprop, new interior, new trailer. Ready to go. $23,900. Call for pics. 812-371-2375. FEB11 2005 TIARA 32 OPEN. 8.1 Crusaders, E120 w/ digital sounder, autopilot, open array, pristine, $210,000. Jeff 517-202-2123. NO BROKERS! FEB11 ed Reduc ! Again W Stora inter ge PA ID! 2004 SEA RAY 390 MOTOR YACHT. Twin 480CE Cummins 290 hrs. Bristol condition. Loaded with options. Freshwater only. Heated storage. $199,000. 317-523-8506 MAY11 1977 25' CHRIS CRAFT CATALINA. Single 230hp gas engine, trim tabs. New upholstery in cockpit. Full canvas, fresh water, teak interior, good condition $4000. 773-272-2418. email@example.com. APR11 34' 2001 SEA RAY SUNDANCER. 160 hours, new camper� top, heated storage since new. Excellent Condition. $93,000. 419-571-7997 MAR11 1991 TIARA 290 SPORTBOAT � Fastidious original owner; maintained by Tiara dealer; heated storage; All service records available. 920-854-4521. APR11 2008 RIVIERA 3600 SPORT YACHT. $475,000 Bring an Offer! New Riviera 3600 Sport Yacht ready for delivery with full manufacturer's Warranty. Twin Diesels. No canvas!! Please call for details. 705-340-1255 Ask for Rick. NYS11 39' 1989 CHRIS CRAFT SEDAN CRUISER. C80 Raymarine Radar/Fish/Chart; New Carpet and Half Tower Glass $80,000. 216-408-1301 FEB11 2007 HYDRA-SPORTS 2900 center console. Freshwater, 130 hrs, full Raymarine electronics, bottom paint, hardtop, windlass, enclosed vacuflush head, extensive canvas, ready to ship, new listing. Asking $84,900, call Brent @ Reed Yacht Sales (616) 402-0180 JAN11 ed! Reduc 2004 TIARA 3600 SOVRAN. Twin 450hp Cummins, heated storage, excellent, pictures available, $249,000. email@example.com or 920-737-7304 MAR11 40' 1967 CHRIS CRAFT CORINTHIAN. Rare awesome award winner. Needs nothing. Nov `08 survey. Please, serious inquiries only. 586-791-3744 eve., 248-588-4410 day. MAR11 30 2002 MAINSHIP PILOT. Hardtop, 240 Yanmar, 197 hrs. Recent Survey. $83,000. 866-941-5884 BB11 37 SILVERTON CONVERTIBLE 1981. A Very Roomy Boat!! Great for a Family. Please call for more details. 705-340-1255. Ask for Rick. NYS11 404 CARVER 2000 CLASSIC. Elegance with teak interior and quality Carver craftsmanship. Fresh Water $149,000. 231-941-5884 BB11 77 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 classifieds: boats for sale ed! Reduc 1986 CARVER 42 AFT/CABIN M/Y. Cats, One Owner, Hard enclosure aft deck. Two Queen staterooms. Fresh water, $125,000. firstname.lastname@example.com MAR11 1991 VIKING 66/CMY 1991 VIKING 66/CMY. MAN-T/1200hp, 300hrs. Staterooms(4), F/Heads(3), Walk Around Engine room, Meticulously Maintained, Freshwater, One Owner, OAL 72'6". $495,000. 800-213-3323, email@example.com APR11 2008 TIARA 4300 SOVRAN. Freshwater, volvo IPS 600, 435HP, 176 hrs, Raymarine electronics, full canvas, excellent condition, 2 SR/2 heads, new listing, asking $499,900. Call Brent @ Reed Yacht Sales (616)-402-0180 RYS11 2009 44 SPORT YACHT. Brand New with Full Warranties. Please call for more details and photos. 705-340-1255. Ask for Rick. NYS11 40', 60', 88' DOCKOMINIUMS FOR SALE at beautiful Duncan Bay Boat Club. Clubhouse, pool, floating docks, wifi & more. Straits of Mackinaw. 866-993-3625, email@example.com FEB11 Yacht Delivery 48' 1986 CALIFORNIAN MOTOR YACHT. 3208 Cat Diesels Three staterooms three heads Decorator interior MI $159,000. 313-402 9579 JAN11 MOVE YOUR BOAT WORRY FREE on our air ride hydraulic trailer. Free Quotes! Dave's Marine Transport. GREAT LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY GIFT! Get your favorite angler hooked on Great Lakes Angler this holiday season. GLA takes you where the big ones are biting... get the best tips, tactics and techniques for fishing in the Great Lakes. Toll Free: (866) 814-DAVE (3283) www.davesmarinetransport.com RUC Charters 1991 500 SEA RAY SUNDANCER, One Owner 10 years, many upgrades and accessories, Records and pictures available. 330-550-3714 APR11 BAREBOAT CANADA'S FABULOUS NORTH CHANNEL, LAKE HURON. 25 power and sailboats, 27'-50', cruise and learn, skippered. Canadian Yacht Charters, Gore Bay, Ontario. 800-565-0022. email: firstname.lastname@example.com, www.cycnorth.com RUC Powerboat 1981 MAINSHIP 34 TRAWLER. 200hp Turbo Diesel, 40 gal. water, 200 gal. fuel, fly-bridge, full electronics, wellmaintained. $20,000. 815-347-2624. FEB11 1987 36' TIARA CONVERT. Heated stg, pro serviced, 350 HP/890 HRS, all electronics, fresh water, excellent, photos available. Reduced $103,900. Call 616-340-7300 JAN11 1997 CARVER 445 AFT CABIN. Very clean & lightly used. ALL OFFERS & TRADES CONSIDERED! Photo's available at firstname.lastname@example.com. 920 231-0148. JAN11 OWNERSHIP IN 45' BOAT, bristol condition for $45,000. Stringent Credit and Seamanship Requirements. email@example.com for complete details. FEB11 57' CHRIS CRAFT 1968. GM diesels. Mahogany hull, teak decks, FBG top. Great Lakes only. Asking $169,000. 954-463-1400 MAR11 78 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 2005 OCEAN ALEXANDER. 54 LOA (2)500HP Yanmars260 hrs, dual stations, full Raymarine electronics,12KW gen, Air, Zodiac H/B, deluxe bridge. $608,000. 920-739-7668. JAN11 A one-year subscription makes a great gift! Only $14.95 for 9 issues. Call 800-214-5558, or visit our website at glangler.com. REDUCED! `95 500 DA SEA RAY. Heated storage, T-550 Detroits. 502 hrs. Clean and equipped. Fresh water only. $249,000. ph: 216-469-7000 JAN11 classifieds: boats for sale The Best Way to D Sell Your Boat Fast! OL S 20 Words With 1 Photo: $250 Without Photo: $150 Additional words are $1.50 each. 4-Month Special BONUS: Advertise in the magazine and receive a free listing online at 20 Words With 1 Photo: $90 Without Photo: $40 Additional words are $1.50 each. Monthly Rates www.lakelandboating.com ORDER FORM Place my classified ad in the following issues: Additional Photos (New!) Each additional magazine photo: Add $55 per month Add $150 for 4-month special Not available online. Must call 800-331-0132 x.21 to order. January August February March April May June July September October November/December Category (only one per ad): Power Sail Other 20 words to include length, year, make, model, features, price, phone, and email address. Premium Display Ads: Want a larger ad with a border and room for more than 20 words? Order by the inch! 1 column x 2" deep $145 per month 1 column x 3" deep $215 per month 1 column x 4" deep $250 per month 1 column x 5" deep $325 per month Not available online. Must call 800-331-0132 x.21 to order. Lakeland Boating Classifieds 727 South Dearborn, Suite 812 Chicago, IL 60605 Sorry but no refunds once the ad is placed. Photos will be returned only if you enclose an SASE. Lakeland Boating reserves the right to edit copy for spelling, length, format, etc. Order online or mail this form to: Payment: We can accept Visa and MasterCard and checks ONLY for mail-in orders Name Address City Day phone Email (Must be included for online ad.) Visa/MasterCard number Name as it appears on credit card Expiration date Amount enclosed State Evening phone Zip Questions? Call 800-331-0132 x21 email@example.com Deadlines: February is December 15th. March issue is January 15th. Ads received after deadline are automatically placed in the next issue. 79 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 above the waterline Air Power Satisfy your need for speed skyward. BY DAVE WALLACE have no idea why I've always owned the slowest boats. Perhaps it was my early introduction to seamanship by way of a seriously overbuilt seagoing rowboat powered by a seriously underpowered one-horse Johnson. From those childhood days, I learned to accept the humility of being the last one back at the dock. Years later, when my mate and I accepted the challenge of Great Lakes cruising, we began with a well-used sailboat whose ancient and badly tuned Atomic Four was barely able to keep up with channel traffic. Our last sailboat was selected on the basis of its classic lines, generous use of heavy teak and the most sensuous V-birth arrangement short of The Love Boat. Only after our check had been cashed did we discover that this inner hull comfort was matched by generous outer hull design compromises that held our top speed to less than 6 knots--whether under sail, power or both. Our cruising friends made the most of our shortcoming. After all, it's human nature to enjoy association with a loser in order to feel better about oneself. When we finally gave up the unreliability of sail power and moved into a trawler, we chose one with a single engine--and, of course, the cruising speed of a farm tractor. In spite of this ongoing handicap, we enjoyed a cruising life filled with unexpected luxuries and scheduling versatility. Now in the waning years of my career, however, I can safely share the real secret of our success: Air power. During the time my mate and I were involved with cruising boats, my brother took a similar approach to airplanes--specifically amphibian designs that were equally at home on land or water. Once airborne, they cruised at three-digit speeds and could reach just about any port or destination in the Great Lakes in a matter of hours. As a partner in our cruising strategy, my brother could transform our minimal hull speed into a non-issue. We once took delivery of a boat from a dealer in Lake Erie. We had way too much gear to travel by commercial airliner and no desire to rent a car and drive the distance. For my brother, it was a simple one-stop hop that ended when we taxied right into the marina for offloading. Later during that same voyage, we found ourselves in Mackinaw City, Michigan, with a fuel pump problem. The replacement part we needed was in stock at a marine store back home in Grand Rapids. Thanks to my brother, we enjoyed same-day delivery and no delay in our voyage. Since my brother and I were partners in the same business, it was not unusual for him to fly me home for major client meetings or other business-related responsibilities that would otherwise make long-range cruising in a slow boat virtually impossible. One of our most dramatic arrivals took place at Northport at the northern tip of Traverse City Bay. After we landed on the water, we lowered the wheels and literally powered up the launch ramp into the parking lot. Pushing the plane back into the water was the hardest part, but the cheers of assembled witnesses were well worth the effort. Not all of these mercy flights were problem-solving events. Some were purely social, like the time we found ourselves on Washington Island at the tip of the Green Bay Peninsula. It was a Sunday in August with nothing on the agenda, but it was the perfect time for a corn roast. I knew my brother grew his own, so I used the dock master's phone to order up a full planeload of fresh picked ears. We invited the entire marina and built a bonfire on the beach. Mere hours later my air-powered corncrib buzzed the crowd and landed to a standing ovation. Eat your heart out, FedEx! DAVE WALLACE has been boating in the I Great Lakes for more than 34 years. He's written for Lakeland Boating since 1993 and helped develop the first edition of Lakeland Boating's Ports O' Call Cruising Guides. 80 LAKELANDBOATING.COM J A N U A R Y 2 011 ILLUSTRATION BY MIKE HARRIS ADVE RTISE I N CALL 800-331 32 -01 FOR MORE INFORMATION