HURON
O N TA R I O
MICHIGAN
ERIE
SUPERIOR
AUGUST 2025
SACS REBEL 50 | G
Stout, stylish and sleek, the SACS Rebel 50 stands out from the crowd.
WELLCRAFT 38 T-TOP
LAKE OF THE OZARKS
EJ MERTAUGH CELEBRATES 100 YEARS
PORT OF CALL
A center console built for the Great Lakes. A century of excellence for a boating pioneer.
Not a Great Lake, but a truly great lake. . Grand Haven, MI: The magic of Coast Guard City.
SPOTLIGHTS Boston Whaler
Cobalt
Grady-White
Hurricane
CONTENTS 40
FEATURES 26 SACS Rebel 50 | G Sleek and unique. By Chuck Warren
30 Wellcraft 38 T-Top A recognizable difference. By Ken Kreisler
ON THE COVER The brilliant SACS Rebel 50 | G magically blends the eyebrowraising performance of a Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat (RIB) with the sheer opulence of a luxury yacht, creating a stylish and nimble sport cruiser bursting with Italian flair. .
DEPARTMENTS From the Helm 6 Dock Box 8 Calendar 9 Scuttle 11 Great Gear 14
34 Celebrating 100 years of excellence
E.J. Mertaugh Boat Works marks a century of service. By Kim Racette
@LAKELANDBOATING.COM Marine Maintenance 16
36 Lake of the Ozarks
Not a Great Lake, but a great lake for those exploring further afield. By Damaine Vonada
40 Port of Call: Grand Haven
With great facilities for visiting boaters, a vibrant waterfront, lively brewpubs and top-notch beaches, Grand Haven deserves a spot on every Great Lakes boater’s bucket list. By Jane Ammeson
Tackle’N Fish 17 Stay current on the latest Great Lakes news Peruse dozens of exciting destination stories Read our latest Features & Columns Explore all of our Boat Tests & Boat Spotlights Place a classified ad Shop boats for sale by owner Access past issues with our online magazine Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter Subscribe & send gift subscriptions Order back issues
Tech Deck 18 Life on the Loop 19 Boat Spotlights: Boston Whaler, Cobalt, Grady-White, Hurricane 22 Lakeshore Life: Holland, MI 48 Marina Watch: Oselka Marina 50 Marine Marketplace 53 Classifieds 63 Classic Craft 64
2 AUGUST 2025
COASTGUARDFEST.ORG
Grand Haven lives up to its name as a top destination for Great Lakes boaters.
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4. Most lenders require boat insurance If you financed your boat, you’ll likely need boat insurance since most lenders require boat insurance to protect their investment. Additionally, some marinas or municipalities require proof of insurance for docking.
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FROM THE HELM
Great Lakes
I
’m far more accustomed to reading this page than to writing it, but with Captain Kate off welcoming her family’s newest crew member, I’ll do my best to at least keep things keel-side-down until she returns. Thanks to the awesome work of Lakeland’s stellar contributors, this August issue is a gem with two boat tests — the awesome SACS Rebel 50 | G and the eyebrowraising Wellcraft 38 T-Top. Our Port of Call for August explores the magic of Grand Haven, Michigan, while we tempt your future travel planning with a look south to Missouri and Lake of the Ozarks — not a Great Lake, but a great lake serving up its own special charms. Being able to travel to more remote destinations is a real plus for owners of smaller, trailerable boats and this issue celebrates that spirit of exploration throughout. Whether it’s shortening our travel time to more remote parts of the Great Lakes, or discovering smaller waterways in other regions, that ability to escape the weekly grind and explore someplace new captures the true essence of boating: Freedom. All aboard!
CONTRIBUTORS KEN KREISLER A multi BWI awardwinning journalist, Ken began his nautical career while in high school, spending summers doing odd jobs in the boatyard of a local marina in Brooklyn, New York. He worked his way through undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate academic studies as the skipper of his own six-pack charter boat, and upon completion of his degree work, secured his first job as a writer in the marine industry and never looked back. Ken splits his seasonal time between the New Jersey Shore and West Palm Beach, Florida. READ HIS STORY ON P. 30
KIM RACETTE Kim has written for local and regional newspapers, various magazines, dozens of special publications, as well as numerous blogs, video scripts and websites. Food and travel writing are her favorites and, of course, anything Great Lakes! READ HER STORY ON P. 34
Do you have a story idea you’d like to suggest? Email me at kbush@lakelandboating.com to share your ideas.
AREAS MENTIONED IN THIS ISSUE
Hessel, MI p. 34
JANE AMMESON Jane writes about food and travel and is the author of 16 books. Her travel book “Lincoln Road Trip: The Back-Roads Guide to America’s Favorite President” was a Bronze winner in the Travel Book category in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition. Jane loves to sail and spend time on — and in — Lake Michigan. READ HER STORY ON P. 40
Grand Haven, MI p. 40
Lake of the Ozarks, MO p. 36
6 AUGUST 2025
Lakeside, OH p. 20
Irish Boat Shop and Gypsy Distillery invite you to the Irish Boat Show — a day of family-friendly summer fun, with music, local food trucks, and an exciting lineup of boats! Explore the latest models from Boston Whaler, Chaparral, Nautique, and Pardo Yachts. Join us for this unforgettable Northern Michigan summer day in Petoskey! Visit www.irishboatshop.com for more details.
HARBOR SPRINGS • CHARLEVOIX • TRAVERSE CITY
WDOCK BOX NAME GAME
AUGUST 2025 VOLUME LXXIX, NO. 8
Bank Shot
Bank Shot is the name of our Regal 38 Grande Coupe. I played basketball in college and loved the game. I was also a banker for 42 years. You pick the reason for the name? —Paul and Marilyn Siebenmorgen, New Buffalo, MI
PUBLISHER Linda O’Meara PUBLISHER IN MEMORIUM Walter “Bing” O’Meara EDITORIAL STAFF Editorial Director: Kate Bush Guest Editor: Craig Ritchie Assistant Editor: Abby Thorpe CREATIVE STAFF Art Director/Production Manager: Christy Tuttle Bauhs CONTRIBUTORS Jane Ammeson, Jordan Bohonek, Glenn Hayes, Kevin Koenig, Ken Kreisler, Frank Lanier, Patty McCleery, Dave Mull, Kim Racette, Damaine Vonada, Chuck Warren BUSINESS STAFF National Sales Director: Leslie Palmer Regional Ad Sales: Linda O’Meara Accounting: Diane Fairchild EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 312-276-0610
Shoal Survivor
After becoming hung up on one too many oyster beds, my wife named our Bennington pontoon Shoal Survivor. The photo captures our boat on the lift the day after Hurricane Ian passed by with a 12-foot storm surge. Living up to its name, our boat was deposited back on the lift with the only damage being to the Bimini top, unlike most of the other boats in the marina that ended up on the dock, in the mangroves or sunk. —Shawn Ryan, Naples, FL
Lake Lens We want to see the gorgeous Great Lakes from your point of view! Send a high-resolution photo (at least 1 MB) and a short write-up about that photo to INFO@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM.
Please put “Lake Lens” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!
Name Game We’re always on the lookout for clever and interesting boat names! Send us a short write-up about why you chose your boat name, along with your name, your home city and state, and a high-res photo of your boat (at least 1 MB). Send to INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COM and put “Name Game” in the subject line. Calling All Canine (and Feline) Crew! We want to learn about your furry friends onboard! Send a short write-up with your pet’s name and your home city, as well as a high-resolution photo (at least 1 MB) to: INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COM. Please put “Canine/ Feline Crew” in the subject line. If we publish your submission, you’ll win a Lakeland Boating hat!
INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COM LAKELANDBOATING.COM
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 1555 Sherman Ave. / Suite 313 / Evanston, IL 60201 CBAUHS@LAKELANDBOATING.COM
SUBSCRIPTIONS P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-504-8475 O’MEARA-BROWN PUBLICATIONS INC President: Linda O’Meara Secretary: Timothy Murtaugh Lakeland Boating (ISSN 0744-9194) Copyright 2025, by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. is published eleven times per year (except December) by O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc. / Business/Accounting and Editorial Offices: 1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 313, Evanston, IL 60201, 312-276-0610. / Call 847-504-8475 to subscribe. Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 (U.S.). Annual subscription rates: United States: $24.95 per year; International and Canadian: $39.95 per year, includes 7% G.S.T. tax (G.S.T. 894095074-RT 0001) and $12 postage included. Single copies are $6.50+ shipping for U.S. and Canada, only U.S. funds accepted. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices. / POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Lakeland Boating, P.O. Box 386, Lincolnshire, IL 60069. / Lakeland Boating is a registered trademark of O’Meara-Brown Publications, Inc., Evanston, IL. Published as Lakeland Yachting 1946-1955. / Unsolicited work may be submitted at the creator’s own risk. Lakeland Boating assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited material. All submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage. / All published photos are courtesy of the company/ manufacturer, unless otherwise noted.
� WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!
Email us at INFO@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM or drop us a line at Lakeland Boating, 1555 Sherman Ave., Evanston, IL 60201. Opinions expressed in “Dock Box” are not necessarily those of the Lakeland Boating. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
8 AUGUST 2025
PRINTED IN THE U.S.A
P HOTOS COURTESY OF: 1. DVIDS PET T Y OFFICER 2ND CLAS S JAMES CONNOR; 2. FESTIVAL WEBSITE; 3. BOAT SH OW WEB SITE; 4. EV EN T FACEB O O K PAG E; 5. F ESTI VAL FACE B O O K PAG E
CALENDAR JULY 24 – AUG 2 Baroque on Beaver Island Beaver Island, MI
AUG 1 – 3 All Classics Festival Huron, OH
JULY 25 – AUG 3 1 Coast Guard Festival Grand Haven, MI
Blue Water SandFest Port Huron, MI
BAROQUEONBEAVER.ORG
LYMANBOA.COM
BLUEWATERSANDFEST.COM
COASTGUARDFEST.ORG
Antique Boat Show & Auction Clayton, NY
JULY 28 – AUG 3 XINSURANCE Great Lakes Grand Prix Michigan City, IN
ABM.ORG
GREATLAKESGRANDPRIX.COM
JULY 30 – AUG 2 Elk Rapids Harbor Days Elk Rapids, MI
ELKRAPIDSHARBORDAYS.ORG
FACEBOOK.COM/ GMMUSICFESTIVAL
3 Door County Classic and Wooden Boat Show Sturgeon Bay, WI
AUG 7 – 10 National Blueberry Festival South Haven, MI
DCMM.ORG
JULY 31 – AUG 2 Spirit Valley Days Duluth, MN
AUG 1 – 4 4 Canal Days Port Colborne, ON
SPIRITVALLEYDAYS.COM
PORTCOLBORNE.CA
JULY 31 – AUG 3 Annual Fisherman’s Picnic Grand Marais, MN
Kempenfest Barrie, ON
KEMPENFEST.COM
AUG 2 Boats on the Boardwalk Traverse City, MI
STURGEONBAY.NET/TALL-SHIPS
WWCACBS.COM
AUG 1 Lake Leelanau Rendezvous Leland, MI
Pirates of the Bay Penetanguishene, ON
DISCOVERYHARBOUR.ON.CA
WWCACBS.ORG
Tawas Uncork’d Wine, Food & Ale Festival East Tawas, MI
AUG 1 – 2 Port Sanilac Blues Festival Port Sanilac, MI
TAWAS.COM
PORTSANILACBLUESFESTIVAL.NET
2 Vintage Ohio Wine Festival Kirtland, OH
Classic Car Show Port Clinton, OH
PORTCLINTONCHAMBER.COM/ CAR-SHOW
VISITVINTAGEOHIO.COM
5
FACEBOOK.COM/ MUSICONTHEGRAND
STJOETODAY.COM
I-LYA.ORG
Tall Ships Sturgeon Bay, WI
AUG 6, 13, 20, 27 Music on the Grand Grand Haven, MI
AUG 7 – 9 Music & Craft Festival Grand Marais, MI
Sturgeon Bay Maritime Week Sturgeon Bay, WI
GRANDMARAISLIONS.COM
WASHINGTONISLANDMUSIC FESTIVAL.COM
Chalk the Block St. Joseph, MI
DCCLASSICBOATSHOW.COM
JULY 30 – AUG 3 I-LYA Sail Regatta Put-in-Bay, OH
AUG 4 – 15 Washington Island Music Festival Washington Island, WI
AUG 2 – 3 Belle Isle Art Fair Detroit, MI
BELLEISLEARTFAIR.COM
Thunder on the Niagara North Tonawanda, NY
THUNDERONTHENIAGARA.COM
AUG 2 – 9 Shoreline West Bicycle Tour Alpena, MI RIDESHORELINE.ORG
AUG 3 – 10 Island Green Week Put-in-Bay, OH
MILLERFERRY.COM
1
SOUTHHAVEN.ORG
AUG 8 Poker Run and Picnic Hessel, MI
2
WWCACBS.ORG
AUG 8 – 9 St. Ignace Heritage Festival St. Ignace, MI STIGNACE.COM
AUG 8 – 10 1000 Islands Kingston Poker Run Kingston, ON POKERRUNS.CA/KINGSTON
Bill Johnston’s Pirate Days Alexandria Bay, NY
3
VISITALEXBAY.ORG
Chris-Craft Commander Club National Rendezvous 25th Anniversary Celebration Huron, OH COMMANDERCLUB.COM/ NATIONAL-RENDEZVOUS
Orillia Waterfront Festival Orillia, ON ORILLIA.COM
Sheboygan Midwest Challenge Sheboygan, WI
4
P1OFFSHORE.COM
AUG 9 Charlevoix Waterfront Art Fair Charlevoix, MI CHARLEVOIXWATERFRONT ARTFAIR.ORG
Door County Festival of Fine Arts Sister Bay, WI SISTERBAY.COM
5 Great Lakes Surf Festival Muskegon, MI
GREATLAKESSURFFESTIVAL.COM
Les Cheneaux Islands Antique Boat Show and Festival of Arts Hessel, MI LCIBOATSHOW.COM
L AKEL ANDBOATING.COM
9
CALENDAR AUG 9 – 10 Top O’ Michigan Outboard Marathon Alanson, MI TOMORCV.ORG
AUG 11 – 17 U.P. State Fair Escanaba, MI
UPSTATEFAIR.NET
7
AUG 13 – 14 Bash on the Bay Put-in-Bay, OH
BASHONTHEBAY.COM
AUG 13 – 17 Door County Fair Sturgeon Bay, WI
DOORCOUNTYFAIR.COM
Venetian Festival Lake Geneva, WI
VENETIANFEST.COM
� ADD YOUR EVENT!
Email INFO@ LAKELANDBOATING.COM to add your event to our Calendar page.
AUG 14 – 17 Pentwater Homecoming Celebration Pentwater, MI PENTWATER.ORG
AUG 15 – 16 Big Splash Raffle Sandusky, OH
Michigan Walleye Tour Championship Port Austin, MI
AUG 22 Rock the Boat South Haven, MI
AUG 15 – 17 Bellaire Rubber Ducky Festival Bellaire, MI
AUG 22 – 23 Lake George Rendezvous Lake George Village, NY
AUG 16 Annual Gitchi-Gami Trail Association North Shore Bike Ride Two Harbors, MN
6 Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival Superior, WI
GLACBS Pewaukee Lake Rendezvous Pewaukee, WI
PORKIESFESTIVAL.ORG
MICHIGANWALLEYETOUR.COM
BELLAIRECHAMBER.ORG
GGTA.ORG
GLACBS.ORG
HarborPark Jazz, Rhythm & Blues Festival Kenosha, WI MAHONEFUND.ORG/HPJ
Port Clinton Lighthouse Festival Port Clinton, OH PORTCLINTONLIGHTHOUSE.ORG
Port Sanilac Antique Boat Show and Vintage Festival Sanilac, MI MICHACBS.COM
BIGSPLASHRAFFLE.COM
Suds on the Shore Ludington, MI
SUDSONTHESHORE.COM
VanderLeek Cup Hospice Regatta Holland, MI
CHICAGOAIRANDWATERSHOW.US
AUG 16 & 30 Lake Bluff Artisan Fair St. Joseph, MI STJOETODAY.COM
10 AUGUST 2025
Rendezvous at the Straits Powwow St. Ignace, MI STIGNACE.COM
Gull Lake Classic Lake Shore, MN LOLCBC.ORG
AUG 22 – 24 Blues By the Bay East Tawas, MI TAWAS.COM
AUG 22 – 31 Salmon Spectacular Fishing Derby Owen Sound, ON FACEBOOK.COM/ SYDENHAMSPORTSMEN
AUG 23 Burning Foot Beer Festival Muskegon, MI Pentwater Wooden & Classic Boat Show and Parade Pentwater, MI
Chicago Air & Water Show Chicago, IL
CALL CAPTAIN RICK DRIES 586-924-0224 • NAUTICALTWIST@GMAIL.COM NAUTICALTWIST.COM
Porcupine Mountains Music Festival Ontonagon, MI
Hastings Waterfront Festival Hastings, ON
ARTINBAYFRONTPARK.COM
Crafted from durable, UV-rated polymer, NT Hooks ensure longevity and reliability in various environments. Ideal for marine, garage, basement, pool, barn, and workshop applications, these versatile hooks offer secure and convenient storage solutions. $11.99/each: Call to discuss special pricing for multiple hooks, and mounting hardware options.
SUPERIORDRAGONS.ORG
BURNINGFOOT.BEER
AUG 16 – 17 Art at Bayfront Park Duluth, MN
NAUTICAL TWIST UTILITY HOOKS
ACBS-ADC.ORG
VANDERLEEKCUP.COM
HASTINGSFESTIVAL.CA
MADE IN MICHIGAN!
MICHIGANMARITIMEMUSEUM.ORG
AUG 21 – 23 HarborFest Marquette, MI
PENTWATERYACHTCLUB.COM
AUG 29 – 31 Copper Harbor Trails Fest Copper Harbor, MI
COPPERHARBORTRAILS.ORG
7 Port of Orillia Pirate Party Orillia, ON ORILLIA.COM
AUG 29 – SEPT 1 Blues in the Bay Alexandria Bay, NY
VISITALEXBAY.ORG
MARQUETTEWESTROTARY.ORG
AUG 30 Thumbfest Lexington, MI
AUG 21 – 24 Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina Chicago, IL
AUG 30 – 31 Arts & Crafts Dockside St. Ignace, MI
OFFICIALCHIBS.COM
STIGNACE.COM
Rockin’ the Bay Alexandria Bay, NY
Marina Fest Sister Bay, WI
VISITALEXBAY.ORG
BLUEWATERFOLK.ORG
SISTERBAY.COM
PHOTOS COURTESY OF 6. EV EN T WEB SITE; 7. EV EN T FACEB O O K PAG E
6
MACKIN AC ISL AN D TO U R I SM B U R E AU CHRIS - CRAF T COMMANDER CLUB; WHS MARITIME PRESER VATION PROGRAM
BUZZ
Mackinac Island Named No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination for Third Consecutive Year
For the third year in a row Mackinac Island has been voted the number one Best Summer Travel Destination in USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice 2024 travel awards, as selected by travelers nationwide. Being presented with the honor for the third consecutive year highlights Mackinac Island’s incredible experiences, unique charm and the passion and dedication of its community that keeps visitors returning from across the country and throughout the world. To learn more, visit WMTA.ORG/ARTICLES.
SCUTTLE
Great Lakes News
Boats
Must-Have
Buzz
EVENTS
Chris-Craft Commander Club to Mark 25th Year with 2025 National Rendezvous The 2025 National Rendezvous at Huron Boat Basin in Huron, Ohio, will mark the Chris-Craft Commander Club’s 25th anniversary. An annual gathering of Commander enthusiasts, the rendezvous will take place August 8-10 on Lake Erie featuring a variety of events and opportunities for members to connect. The event will be centered around the Commander line of pleasure craft, but owners of all vintage Chris-Craft models are welcome to attend the celebration, which will include boat tours, socializing, river tours, music, pizza, trailer boats and more. You must register to participate in the event. To register or learn more, visit COMMANDERCLUB.COM. BOATS
Events
Business
The Margaret A. Muir schooner shipwreck was recently added to Wisconsin’s State Register of Historic Places. The schooner sank in 1893 and is submerged in Lake Michigan near Algoma, Wisconsin.
Formula Launches 360 Crossover Bowrider
Formula’s new 360 CBR delivers a fresh take on design, performance and layout from the company’s iconic 350 CBR released in 2013. The 360 features a new Formula profile with a FAS3Tech ventilated stepped hull. Onboard, an improved single-level cockpit features space and interior styling, with an open bow, powered glass sunroof and a triple helm. A true stand-up cabin with overnight accommodations is ideal for weekend trips. “The Formula 360 CBR is a true blend of entertainment-ready comfort and the exhilarating
agility that is rooted in our performance heritage,” said Formula designer Michael Young. “I’ve been excited to preserve that unmistakable Formula essence while introducing new features and finesse. Alongside the dynamic exterior styling, full-width wraparound dash, and innovative performance venting strategy, I’m especially proud of the reimagined transverse head with full-height shower — a standout feature in this class.” Powered by twin 380 or 520 hp motors with sterndrive offerings from MerCruiser, Mercury Racing or Ilmor, the new crossover bowrider is set to impress. To learn more, visit FORMULABOATS.COM.
� ADD YOUR NEWS!
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SCUTTLE
Major upgrades are taking place at Bridge Harbour Marina in Port Huron, Michigan, including dock rebuilding, landscaping enhancements and amenity improvements. The marina was purchased by Bridge Harbour Partners LLC back in January 2024.
12 AUGUST 2025
BOATS
Maritimo Debuts M50 Flybridge Motor Yacht and S60 Sedan Motor Yacht
Maritimo launched its M50 Flybridge Motor Yacht and S60 Sedan Motor Yacht at the 2025 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, showcasing two impressive new models designed with customer input and leveraging Maritimo’s more than two decades of experience. “The M50 — and the S50 Sedan to be revealed in 2026 — epitomises everything Maritimo stands for. Its exterior beauty, functional interior, and grand accommodations offer owners and guests exceptional space and comfort. Every square centimetre has been carefully considered. We’re confident it will be enjoyed by Maritimo owners worldwide,” said Maritimo Founder Bill Barry-Cotter. The 50-foot M50 exudes space and luxury with a large rear swim platform that raises and folds to reduce the vessel’s length when docked. A stunning alfresco dining area in the cockpit is ideal for entertaining, and leads into an impressive galley and saloon beyond, with a spacious 2-cabin configuration below deck. Maritimo’s new S60 sports a balanced profile and adapts equally well to relaxing and entertaining as it does to cruising and adventuring. The single-level sedan features a large cockpit, exciting adventure deck just above the water level and two staterooms with a flexible third cabin for multi-day excursions. To learn more, visiT MARITIMO.COM.AU. BUZZ
Sail Canada Partners With LI/NE to Recycle Old Sails
Sail Canada has teamed up with LI/NE, a female-owned Canadian company that gives retired sails a stylish second life by turning them into handcrafted bags. As part of its strategy on sustainability, Sail Canada is inviting Canadian sailors who will take part in the Sail Canada Youth Fest on August 1-5 and/or the Youth Championships and Senior 49er/49erFX Championships on August 21-24, to make use of the old sails they have in their garage by bringing them to the events. Instead of heading to the landfill, these sails are upcycled into unique, small-batch bags — each one with its own story and character. LI/NE’s products are not only sustainably made but also support the sailing community. A portion of every purchase goes directly toward Sail Canada programs. As a bonus, members can unlock exclusive discounts through the Sail Canada Sailor Portal. Learn more at SAILCANADA.ORG and LINEBAGS.CA.
MUST-HAVE
Seakeeper Ride Launches Five New Products for Boats Up to 55 Feet
Seakeeper announced the release of five new Seakeeper Ride products available for boats 43 to 55 feet in length. The new Seakeeper Ride 900, 1050, 1125, 1275 and 1500 provide underway stabilization through the use of custom-designed rotary blades beneath the boat’s running surface that make adjustments to create lift that manages the boat’s motions. “The demand for Seakeeper Ride is growing rapidly. With standardizations on more than 125 models across 25 builders, plus 111% refit growth from Q1 2024 to Q1 2025, it’s clear that customers are demanding the performance that only Seakeeper Ride can provide,” explains Seakeeper president and CEO Andrew Semprevivo. “Owners of boats in the 55-foot size range know Seakeeper better than most, as we’ve offered the Seakeeper gyro in that size range the longest. They expect excellence from us, and we know we can deliver.” Seakeeper Ride controllers mount to the boat’s transom below the waterline and are available for stepped or non-stepped, fiberglass or aluminum hulls equipped with a compatible MFD. Designed with aluminum components for added strength, the new Seakeeper Ride systems are available for immediate shipment through Seakeeper OEM partners and a global dealer network for aftermarket refits. To learn more, visit RIDE.SEAKEEPER.COM. BUSINESS
Travelers Launches Quantum Yacht 2.0 Personalized Coverage
Travelers Companies, Inc. launched its new Quantum Yacht 2.0 which delivers personalized coverage options and a user-friendly quoting platform for agents as demand for yacht insurance has increased. “The refreshed Quantum Yacht 2.0 is designed specifically with yacht owners in mind, offering comprehensive and customizable coverage options tailored to help meet each customer’s unique needs and budget,” said Deidre LeBlanc, vice president of Specialty Lines for Personal Insurance at Travelers. “The easy-to-use quote and issue system also make this a seamless experience for agents, providing them with even more tools to grow their business and enhance customer relationships.” Quantum Yacht 2.0 delivers loss settlement options, optional towing services, expert support, potential savings and is currently available in Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Virginia, with additional states rolling out in the coming months. To learn more, visit TRAVELERS.COM.
BRIDGE HARB O R MAR IN A FACEB O O K
M50 Flybridge
BUZZ
CR ED IT
Volvo Penta Launches Electric IPS Marine Propulsion Range Volvo Penta’s new IPS Electric marine propulsion range is built on the proven Volvo Penta IPS platform and complements Volvo Penta’s hybrid electric solution introduced in 2024 by offering customers ‘fit-for-purpose’ options tailored to different operation needs. The new fully electric range features an electric motor directly coupled to the Volvo Penta IPS driveline, available in twin, triple or quadruple configurations. “Our aim with this new range is to deliver a plug and play electric propulsion solution, keeping the uniqueness of our core competence, but also designed to scale together with 3rd party integrators,” explained Anna Müller, president of Volvo Penta. Starting in Q4 of this year, Volvo Penta will roll out the IPS900E, with a goal of electrifying all five drivelines in the Volvo Penta IPS range. The complete electric range will ultimately include full helm-to-propeller functionality, and will include the Volvo Penta Electronic Vessel Control system. To learn more, visit VOLVOPENTA.COM.
BUZZ
Sirius Signal Supplies Freedom Boat Club With Modern Electronic Visual Distress Signal Devices Sirius Signal announced it is providing its Model C-1004 high-performance single visible white color and non-visible infrared SOS flashing distress light to Freedom Boat Club’s fleet. Approved by the U.S. Coast Guard to meet all visual distress signal requirements, the Model C-1004 electronic boat flare and daytime distress flag together provide greater safety for boaters and replace dangerous and toxic pyrotechnic marine flares. “We have recognized that our club members should have safe, effective and easy to deploy distress signals should any emergency arise on the water,” says Nic Thomas, senior director of club operations. An included suction cup mount provided for club members allows them to display the device safely above their line of sight. “Our SOS visual distress signal products paired with ‘how to and when to use’ instructions provide invaluable operational safety for Freedom Boat Club members,” adds Anthony Covelli, Sirius Signal CEO. “This is foundationally what Freedom Boat Club emphasizes in its Unlimited Boat Training Program.” To learn more, visit SIRIUSSIGNAL.COM and FREEDOMBOATCLUB.COM.
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GREAT GEAR
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Must-have goodies, gadgets and more for every boater
6 5
1. RemigoOne
Effortlessly power your tender or small sailboat with this modern, ergonomic electric outboard from Remigo. Crafted from marine-grade aluminum, the RemigoOne is resistant to UV rays, saltwater and wear, and is fully recyclable. No cables or corrosionprone electrical connections mean long-term reliability, and the one-size-fits-all height adjustment makes it seamless to use on different vessels. When it comes time to travel, the foldable tiller doubles as a carrying handle for easy transportation and storage. Now available for purchase in North America. $2,999 AT REMIGOUSA.COM
2. BOTE Breeze Bloom
Enjoy time on the water and feel good about helping the environment with the new Breeze Bloom paddleboard from BOTE, part of the brand’s popular Breeze Aero range of paddleboards. Featuring BOTE’s AeroULTRA construction from military-grade PVC, the Breeze Bloom delivers durability and a lightweight design, and features a Full Trax (nose to tail) foam deckpad made from Bloom algae — a material made from harvesting nuisance algae to help support clean water and the environment. Available in 10'6" and 11'6" sizes, the Breeze Bloom accommodates a wide range of skill levels and riders. $699 AT REI.COM 14 AUGUST 2025
3. Smart Ass Fuel Mule
Explore remote waters without worrying about running out of gas with the SmartAss FuelMule Gas Caddy. The only motorized electric gas caddy with a pump holding up to 50 gallons, it delivers effortless transportation of fuel thanks to a 750w brushless sealed drive motor and offroad tires that can conquer almost any terrain. Rechargeable batteries mean you can make multiple trips to and from the boat, while userfriendly controls make it simple to use. Safety controls include hydraulic disc brakes, a leakproof design and auto-shutoff nozzle. Made in the USA. $4,495 AT SMARTASSPRODUCTS.NET
4. FlagGuard
Head out on the water with peace of mind thanks to FlagGuard, the revolutionary safety device that makes people instantly visible in the water. Named the Boating Safety Product of the Year, FlagGuard deploys a bright orange flag above a person’s head the moment they enter the water, and automatically retracts when he or she exits the water. Whether you’re tubing, skiing, kayaking, sailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding or floating, FlagGuard ensures you stay safe and visible in the water, and is entirely hands-free for easy use. $49.95 AT FLAGGUARD.NET � ADD YOUR GEAR!
Email INFO@LAKELANDBOATING.COM to add your company's new product to Great Gear.
5. ZF Ramp Assist App
Launch with ease the next time you trailer your boat with ZF’s Ramp Assist app that offers a comprehensive ramp locator and real-time ramp traffic updates. The latest version of the app for iOS includes new features, including a boat ramp locator with access to over 23,000 boat ramps across the U.S., detailed ramp information, real-time ramp traffic updates, favorite boat ramp alerts, weather and tide information and AI-powered ramp assist that delivers helpful boat-loading guidance. Available at the App Store and through the company website. FREE AT RAMPASSIST.COM OR ON THE APP STORE
6. Mission Outdoor TITAN Inflatable Tie-Up Boat Bumper
Tie up with ease at the dock or to another boat with this inflatable bumper. It eliminates worry caused by unpredictable wind, waves and other boats. Crafted from 1280D nylon, the TITAN delivers naval-grade protection. Oversized D-rings on each end make it easy to deploy, and when deflated it easily stows in small spaces, like under the seat. Offered in two sizes, 18" x 10' suitable for most boats up to 27 feet; and 24" x 10', best for larger boats or boats with more bow flare. Comes with a mesh storage bag and repair kit. Pump sold separately. $249 $299 AT BOATGEAR.MISSIONOUTDOOR.COM
est. 1925
PREMIER FULL-SERVICE YACHT MARINA ON THE SHORES OF LAKE HURON IN THE BEAUTIFUL LES CHENEAUX ISLANDS. Heated and cold storage | Wooden boat restoration Certified mechanics | Yamaha and Honda dealer | Launching & hauling | Gelcoat & fiberglass | Plumbing & electrical
www.ejmertaughboatworks.com 296 s. hessel point rd., hessel, mi 906-484-2434 @ejmbw |
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L AKEL ANDBOATING.COM
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MARINE MAINTENANCE
Marine Toilet Upgrades
The most important seat onboard isn’t the one at the helm.
W Good head practices to complete at the end of each boating day:
1. Flush the head sufficiently to push sewage from the hoses and rinse behind it. 2. Pour a gallon of fresh water into the bowl and flush through the system. Incorporating this into your leaving-the-boat routine will solve most odor problems. This is particularly true if flushing with salt water, which contains tiny organisms that will die, decay and smell. 3. Clean your head after each trip. Giving sinks, counters and the areas around and behind the toilet a good cleaning with disinfecting wipes or other such cleaners will leave Neptune’s throne room smelling clean and ready for your next adventure. 4. Shut all sanitation system seacocks when not in use to prevent possible back siphoning and flooding.
CAPT. FRANK LANIER is an award-winner journalist, boat maintenance guru and owner of Capt. F.K. Lanier & Associates, Marine Surveyors and Consultants. Check out his YouTube channel "Everything Boats with Capt. Frank Lanier." CAPTFKLANIER.COM
16 AUGUST 2025
hile it’s often said the two best days of owning a boat are when buying and selling it, I’d argue there’s a third – the day you replace that old, temperamental marine toilet with a modern, efficient unit. Here are some options to consider when upgrading your own throne. The number of styles may seem overwhelming at first, but marine toilets can really be broken down into five basic types. Gravity-feed toilets work just as the name implies, with the unit positioned directly above an integral holding tank. Bowl contents drain directly into a removable tank (normally of 2 to 5 gallon capacity) which can later be dumped in the appropriate receptacle ashore. Flush water (if provided) is often supplied by an internal reservoir, although some larger units can be plumbed to draw flush water from the vessel’s freshwater system. Some can also be plumbed to a deck fitting, to allow remote pump-out. Manual pump toilets utilize an integral hand pump to bring flush water into the bowl, where it mixes with the sewage and is then pumped clear. If plumbed to your freshwater system, it will include a tie into that system, a holding tank and pump-out options (deck fitting and/or overboard, depending on the vessel’s area of operation) as well as the various hoses and fittings needed to connect it all together. Systems utilizing raw water for flushing will additionally require a below-the-waterline throughhull fitting, seacock and plumbing from the seacock to the toilet flush water intake. Macerating toilets are designed to puree solid waste, much like a garbage disposal. This is typically accomplished by an electric grinder (aka the macerator) that uses blades to simultaneously chop and pump waste clear of the bowl. Flush water can be raw or from the vessel’s freshwater system. Installation will include the same elements of a manual head, plus the required electrical components, including wiring to the pump, circuit protection, a control panel and so forth. Vacuum heads use an electric or manual pump to generate a vacuum in the system, which pulls sewage from the bowl to a holding tank when the toilet is flushed. If you’re committed to having a green yacht, composting toilets utilize peatmoss to turn waste into compost. As they’re completely self-contained, they can be an attractive alternative to traditional
It is not hard to replace a cranky old head with a new one.
toilets. No plumbing is needed; however they do require installation of a fan and vent pipe. Although early units were large and bulky, newer models have the same footprint as a standard toilet, making them a viable choice for most any vessel.
General installation tips
Although you will always want to follow the manufacturer’s instructions (which will list specific requirements for their particular system) the following general tips apply to most any toilet installation: Location • Select a location that provides sufficient clearance around and above the toilet, ensuring there is room to operate the pump (if manual) and conduct maintenance. • Make sure the seat and lid can swing up and over at least 110°, to prevent closing when the vessel heels or pitches. Mounting • Select a mounting surface that’s flat, rigid and strong enough to provide adequate support. • The support area should be at least 2 to 3 inches wider and deeper than the base of the toilet and have sufficient clearance below the mounting surface to access and secure toilet mounting hardware. • Use properly sized, marine grade mounting hardware including stainless steel through bolts, washers and self-locking nuts. Hose • Use marine grade, spiral-reinforced smooth-bore flexible hoses for both inlet and discharge. • Secure all hose runs against movement, provide chafe protection as needed and install so that hoses do not exert any leverage on toilet fittings to avoid leaks later on. • Keep hose runs as short as possible and avoid sharp bends, which can cause kinks. • Install double marine-grade stainless steel hose clamps at each fitting wherever possible. • Install vented loops as required to prevent flooding. Finally, keep in mind that your toilet is only one part of your vessel’s sanitation system. Correct installation and maintenance of the system as a whole is essential for proper, long-term operation and reliability.
CAPT. F R AN K L AN I E R
By Capt. Frank Lanier
TACKLE’N FISH By Dave Mull
Bronzed Salmon
Simple and delicious, bronzed salmon will delight your guests and leave you looking like a gourmet.
MA FRANK PIXABAY
Y
ou’ve had a great time on the water – the salmon were destroying your lures as fast as you put them in the water and, along with a bruised belly from the rod butt, you now have a nice haul of freshly cleaned fish. What better way to celebrate than by throwing an impromptu party on a warm afternoon at the marina with bronzed salmon fillets as the centerpiece. Salmon keeps for about four days in the fridge without losing that fresh-caught taste. Because freezing causes ice crystals form in the flesh, salmon meat can get a little mushy after it’s thawed so when baking, broiling or frying, fresh fish is best. The same goes when bronzing, which is similar to blackening, the technique Chef Paul Prudhomme popularized for preparing Louisiana redfish. You can find recipes for blackening fish online, and they’ll make salmon delicious, too. Some blackening methods just cook the fish over a medium heat, and you can cook the fillets up in your galley or home kitchen. Bronzing is different, much more of a sizzling, smoky spectacle and best done outdoors.
Ziploc, I like to use about one heaping teaspoon. Squoosh everything around so the spices get well-distributed, and you’re ready to go.
The simple life
Let the feast begin
Where blackening calls for butter and a mixture of sugar and different spices to coat the fillets, bronzing needs just two simple ingredients – olive oil and seasoned salt. Do it at the marina and your boating pals will line up for seconds thinking you’re a gourmet chef. All you need for bronzing are a big L.P.-fueled outdoor burner like you would use to deep fry a turkey and a cast iron skillet. The technique is as simple as the ingredients and gear. A saltwater fishing friend from Texas taught me the basics years ago. The key, he said, was to heat the cast iron pan till you see white ash forming in the middle. You want that pan to be searing hot. While some blackening recipes keep the skin on the fillets, start with skinless fillets for the higher heat of bronzing. Cut the fillets into serving-size portions, which usually works out to three or four chunks per side of the fish. Put these into a 1-gallon Ziploc bag and add a few tablespoons of olive oil to coat them. Then, add some Tony Chachere’s Cajun Seasoning or other spicy salt to taste. For two pounds of salmon in a 1-gallon
You’re going to want to set up the burner well away from your dining area because when you lay a fillet in your nearly red-hot skillet, there will be considerable splattering and lots of smoke. Start out with one fillet at a time – you can keep finished fillets in a warm oven if you want to serve them all at once. Or do as we do and serve the fillets as they’re done to whoever is ready with their plate. In the hot pan each fillet will cook fully in just three or four minutes. The key is to watch the edge of the fillet while it’s in the skillet. You will see the fish lightening up as it cooks. When the growing lightness gets about halfway through the fillet, it’s time to flip. Cook the second side until it is cooked through, remove from the pan and let it settle for a minute or two – the fish will continue to cook. Now it’s ready to serve. You can have tartar sauce ready (just mix some dill relish with mayonnaise) or simply cut up some lemon and lime wedges. But most folks I’ve served bronzed salmon to seem to like it just fine without additional condiments. It certainly disappears in a hurry, and that says it all.
Filleted or steaked, bronzed salmon is easy and delicious.
DAVE MULL
Diehard angler Dave of Kalamazoo, Michigan, has contributed boat tests and features to Lakeland Boating for three decades. His current goal is catching a 30-plus-pound Great Lakes denizen from his Old Town kayak.
L AKEL ANDBOATING.COM
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TECH DECK By Glenn Hayes
The Latest in Handheld Electronics
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From night vision scopes to GPS, a range of marine equipment now fits in the palm of the hand
GLENN HAYES
is a marine writer and photographer whose background in the marine industry and in marine electronics spans almost three decades and many thousands of miles at sea traveling the world. He can be reached at HAYESSTUDIOS.COM
18 AUGUST 2025
s technology advances at its blistering speed, the devices we use every day become increasingly compact. Electronics that once took up valuable dashboard space now fit in the palm of your hand, or even on your wrist. The term ‘handheld devices’ leads most boaters to think of GPS units and VHF radios, but there are plenty of other handheld gadgets that are useful in boats, including smartphones and tablets with their array of helpful boating apps. There are tiny handheld personal locator beacons, handheld thermal night vision scopes, satellite texting devices, remote displays and controllers, watches that can control a bevy of functions aboard, futuristic binoculars and more.
the higher end of the handheld spectrum is the FLIR Ocean Scout Pro, a diminutive, lightweight night vision scope that’s easy to operate with one hand, accessing all the functions such as zoom with one-finger controls. It utilizes a thermal imager, reading even subtle temperature changes, and does not require any light to magnify, unlike other types of night vision scopes. It works exceptionally well at identifying and detecting navigation aids and other obstructions in the water. The Ocean Scout Pro can easily locate a person in a man-overboard situation in pitch-black conditions up to 500 meters away. With 4 color palettes, you can choose the one that will give the best image for the conditions you are in. This handy (pun intended) device can really aid in situational awareness and make boating at night less stressful. Also worth a look is the all-new Zulu6 HDX image-stabilized binocular from Sig Sauer. Small and light for one-hand operation, The Zulu6 provides a clear, sharp and stable view of whatever you need to see. Fully waterproof and fog proof, these rugged binoculars feature user-selectable scan (a wide field of view for scanning) and target modes. The unique stabilization and instant system can lock into your view in Target mode and stabilize the image by 50%.
Handheld VHF radios are certainly not new to boating, but some now include GPS functions, enabling navigation and allowing you to summon help to your exact location with the touch of a button. Radios such as the Standard Horizon HX891BT not only feature a built-in GPS and Digital Selective Calling (DSC) capability, but they also offer the ability to connect wirelessly with Bluetooth headsets, enabling hands-free operation with no wires getting in the way. The Icom IC-M94D handheld VHF even incorporates AIS capability to alert you of nearby vessels, and can allow direct communication with specific AIS transmitting vessels. This offers a fantastic backup to an onboard AIS system, making travel in busy shipping areas less stressful. It is also an excellent option for those aboard smaller craft who still want AIS capability.
Always in touch
So much to see
Another handheld that has come a long way in a short amount of time is the night vision scope. At
Garmin’s new and updated inReach Mini 2 is another handheld that can take the stress out of boating, not only for you but for loved ones ashore. This tiny, handheld device is capable of two-way satellite texting from anywhere where your cell phone doesn’t work. With flexible and inexpensive plans, you can communicate and have push-button SOS rescue capability in a device about half the size of a pack of cards. Loved ones at home can view your location in real-time with a live tracking feature, as well as send and receive texts. You can do so directly with the inReach Mini 2 or via an app on your cell phone, which makes typing that much easier. There are dozens of other handheld devices that can help make your time aboard even more enjoyable, stress-free and safer. Just think, you can now carry everything you need in a compact dry bag that works well for kayakers, small boat captains, or as a critical backup on much larger boats.
ZULU AND GLENN HAYES
It is amazing what now fits in the palm of your hand.
LIFE ON THE LOOP By Jordan Bohonek
The Great Loop: One Charted Course, a Thousand Wild Ideas There’s more than one way to navigate the Loop.
JORDAN BOHONEK
A
s a yacht broker, I get asked the same question at least once a week: “So, what’s the perfect boat for the Great Loop?” And while I’d love to deliver a straight answer, the truth is, there’s no single perfect boat. For me, it’s a 110-foot floating estate with a crew in matching polos, a butler in boat shoes, and a galley that would make a Michelin-star chef weep. But for someone else? It might be a 30-foot trawler. Or a 17-foot kayak. Or — get ready for this — a pair of Yamaha WaveRunners. Yes, you read that correctly.
Have it your way
While the Great Loop may follow a charted course on paper, the experience is wildly individual. This month, I had the pleasure of speaking with Lakeland Boating editor Kate Bush about the intricacies of trailering Loop boats, but as our conversation wandered — as all good ones do — I realized this topic isn’t just about logistics. It’s about the astonishing, often hilarious, and totally unpredictable ways people tackle the adventure of a lifetime. At a recent Looper event in Chattanooga, Tennessee, I met a couple in their early sixties who were positively glowing with excitement. As always, I led with my go-to: “Tell me about your boat!” Without missing a beat, she smiled and said, “Oh honey, we don’t have a boat. We’re doing the Loop on jet skis.” I stared at them, waiting for the punchline. There wasn’t one. Now, I’m a lifelong Minnesotan, which means that for about half the year my primary mode of transportation is a snowmobile. I’ve racked up my fair share of miles hopping from tavern to tavern across frozen lakes, snow flying, face numb, heart full. So the idea of hopping on a jet ski and cruising the Loop? It’s not entirely outside the realm of possibility — it’s just an aquatic extension of a Minnesota winter pub crawl. I’ve also had those snowy moments when I stumble out of a warm restaurant and think, “Oh no, I have to ride that thing back home.” Naturally, I couldn’t wait to call The Boss (that’s my wife, for the uninitiated) and tell her about this aquatic snowmobile stunt. Her reaction was instant: “Don’t get any ideas.” In fairness, she’s probably right. But here’s the wild part—they had it all figured
out. Spare fuel, route planning, overnight stops, even a makeshift cruise control system for her wrists. They were more organized than most yacht owners I know. And that’s when it hit me: the boat doesn’t matter. The dream does.
The Great Loop is all about experiences and memories, whether you travel it by kayak, a luxury yacht or a personal watercraft.
Paddle power
And speaking of dreamers, let’s talk about Peter Frank. This guy is doing the Great Loop in a kayak. Solo. No motor, no galley, no air conditioning, just pure grit and a paddle. I’ve been quietly (and obsessively) following his journey on Facebook, where every post is a heartwarming reminder of human kindness. People take him in, feed him, cheer him on. He’s become a living symbol of Loop spirit, and I love him for it. This, my friends, is the magic of the Great Loop. It’s not about the bells and whistles. It’s about the boldness to go. And while some of us might dream of staterooms with marble countertops and built-in wine coolers, others are perfectly happy with a dry bag and a waterproof phone case. The Great Loop is a canvas. Your mode of transport? That’s the brush. Whether you paint it in the sweeping strokes of a 50-foot trawler or the sharp dashes of a kayak paddle, the masterpiece is yours. Practicality doesn’t enter into it. And if you do decide to loop on a jet ski, bring a wetsuit. (And maybe don’t tell my wife I’m pricing them out on Facebook Marketplace.)
JORDAN BOHONEK
Originally from southern Minnesota, Jordan now lives on a boat with his family. He combines his love for the water with his passion for helping others find vessels as a yacht broker, enabling them to live their dream on America’s Great Loop. Follow along the Bohonek’s Great Loop journey at their Facebook page “Live the Dash | Traveling America’s Great Loop.”
L AKEL ANDBOATING.COM
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SHORELEAVE By Damaine Vonada
Ohio’s Hotel Lakeside Celebrates 150 Years The Lake Erie landmark has created memories for generations of visitors.
retchen Colón’s childhood memories include running up and down the halls of the Hotel Lakeside with her brother. Because Colón’s grandfather was a United Methodist minister, her family has been affiliated with the Lakeside Chautauqua since the 1940s, and today, she serves as the gated, non-profit community’s vice president of advancement and marketing. “Lakeside is a special place,” says Colón, “and it’s an honor to work someplace where you not only grew up but also believe in its mission of enriching the quality of life for all persons.” Lakeside can trace its roots back to August 1873, when Methodist ministers cleared land and pitched tents to create a camp and meeting site on the north shore of Ohio’s Marblehead Peninsula. The lakefront camp had fine views of South Bass and Kelleys islands, and in that pre-air conditioning era, Lake Erie breezes afforded a welcome respite from summertime heat. With revival attendance growing, Lakeside’s founders took a leap of faith and decided to erect a hotel. They hired Toledo, Ohio, carpenter Jacob Tappan to design it, and the aptly named Samuel Nail of Mansfield, Ohio, finished building the hotel in time for the August 1875 camp meeting. Hotel Lakeside originally had 37 rooms, a dining room, and an attached two-story outhouse. Its main entrance faced Lake Erie because paying guests were arriving on trains as well as steamboats that docked at Lakeside’s new pier.
Birth of a community
About the same time, Akron, Ohio, industrialist Lewis Miller and Methodist Bishop John Heyl Vincent started a summer camp focused on improving the skills of Sunday School teachers at New York’s Chautauqua Lake. Pairing instruction with recreation suited Lakeside’s location splendidly, and after Rev. and Mrs. B.T. Vincent, who were the brother and sister-in-law of Bishop Vincent, took over its programming in 20 AUGUST 2025
the late 1870s, Lakeside helped to pioneer the Chautauqua movement that swept the nation at the turn of the last century. Known as “The Chautauqua on Lake Erie,” Lakeside adopted Chautauqua’s four pillars – religion, education, the cultural arts and recreation – and evolved into a unique Lake Erie resort offering enjoyable but purposeful vacations. Lakeside’s multi-generational experiences – from interdenominational worship services to sailing and shuffleboard lessons to art and cooking classes to symphony and tribute band performances – nurture mind, body and spirit and strengthen family ties. “Lakeside meets you where you are and encourages you to grow, explore, and challenge yourself to be a better person,” notes Colón. Hotel Lakeside, of course, adapted to changing times. Wings were added to accommodate more guests, as were creature comforts like hot and cold running water and electricity. The remodeled lobby gained a handsome brick fireplace; the main entrance moved to Maple Avenue; and its signature wraparound porch was screened so that guests could relax, read to their grandchildren, and relish the lake views without being bothered by insects.
Grandeur preserved
By the 1970s Hotel Lakeside was deteriorating and faced demolition. The Friends of the Hotel Lakeside not only rescued it from the wrecking ball but also funded updates such an elevator and air conditioning by hosting ice cream socials on the hotel’s lawn. Volunteering their time and labor to preserve the hotel, they also inspired a legacy of stewardship that Lakeside’s staff and board of directors currently continue. At one square mile in size, Lakeside is the nation’s second largest continuously operated
HOTEL LAKESIDE PHOTOS
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Chautauqua community, and as one of its oldest public buildings, Hotel Lakeside anchors the Lakeside Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes scores of quaint cottages dating to the late 1800s. The hotel’s famous guests have ranged from presidents Hayes and McKinley to Amelia Earhart and Eleanor Roosevelt, and if they could return, they’d probably feel right at home. “When people walk into the Hotel Lakeside’s lobby, they’re often in awe,” says Colón, “because it’s like stepping back in time.” Indeed, with its scroll-topped columns, floral carpeting, pier mirror and old-fashioned loveseats, the lobby’s Victorian character is unmistakable and contributes enormously to the hotel’s charm. Upstairs, the 69 guest rooms and suites are similarly furnished with mismatched antiques that somehow feel more like family heirlooms than cottage cast-offs. Even incidental remnants of the past – like glass doorknobs or the staircase’s low banisters – lend a sense of place and continuity.
Hotel Lakeside has no televisions or video screens, and that’s perfectly fine because the lobby serves as Lakeside’s family room. It’s the place where people gather around the piano to sing ballads and folk tunes, play games at a card table covered with needlepoint tapestry, chat while waiting for their dining room reservations, and view 150th anniversary exhibits that tell Hotel Lakeside’s story with vintage photos and amusing anecdotes. Laden with white wicker sofas and chairs, the hotel’s porch is another timeless Lakeside experience. “It’s the longest front porch on Ohio’s lakefront, and from the water at night, boaters can see its lights and the light from the Perry Memorial at Put-in-Bay,” says Colón. The porch is also the place where an iconic Lakeside ritual occurs throughout the summer – getting family members together for a breakfast of freshly-made, still-warm donuts from Lakeside’s Patio Restaurant. When Colón was a kid, it was her job to walk to the Patio and fetch donuts. “Now,” she says, “I send my daughters to get them.”
Join The Fun! Help celebrate the Hotel Lakeside’s 150th anniversary during the first week of August at events that include a Rededication Ceremony, an Ice Cream Social, and an historic hotels lecture series. LAKESIDEOHIO.COM
Note: Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Lakeside residents and visitors must purchase a Chautauqua Pass and an Auto Pass. The passes vary in price but include admission to Lakeside’s grounds and most activities and events. Complimentary passes also are available for worship services and Shopping/Dining. Free golf cart shuttles run continuously from the South Gate’s parking lot to the Hotel Lakeside and other destinations. Within the gates, most visitors navigate Lakeside by walking, bicycling or renting golf carts.
L AKEL ANDBOATING.COM
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BOAT SPOTLIGHT By Kevin Koenig
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 17'4" Beam: 7'3" Draft: 12" Weight: 1,700 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 25 gals. Water Capacity: N/A Power: 115 hp Base Price: $48,671 BOSTONWHALER.COM
DEALERS B&E Marine
BEMARINE.COM
The Boat House
BOATHOUSEH20.COM
Colony Marine
COLONYMARINE.COM
Irish Boat Shop
IRISHBOATSHOP.COM
WATCH THE VIDEO AT
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
22 AUGUST 2025
Boston Whaler Montauk 170
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Classic for good reason.
hen it comes to iconic boat models, there is a good argument that the Boston Whaler Montauk 170 may be the number one of them all. The omnipresent summertime favorite can be seen at docks from Chicago to Sydney and Cape May to the south of France. The boat has earned its status and reputation through a number of vaunted features, perhaps most famous of which is its unsinkable, foam-cored hull. If you are concerned with safety — as all boaters should be — having a hull that has been proven not to sink is quite an appealing proposition. But the boat also has handsome 316-L stainless steel fixtures, all through-bolted, a testament to her sturdy build. Her trademark wide-open layout offers itself equally well to cruising and angling. If fishermen are primarily aboard there is an optional fishing package that includes a cooler seat, rod holders and extra tackle drawers. Other options for cruising in style include teak trim, a Bimini top and a tow arch.
“The Montauk 170 was designed for the big water of the open ocean, so it’s a perfect fit on the Great Lakes,” said Rod Bensz at B&E Marine. “It’s a big-water boat, but one that you can still easily tow behind the family SUV.” With an optional 115-horsepower outboard the boat can hit a top hop of over 40 knots, while cruising closer to 30. Her famously flat hull offers excellent stability at slow speeds and in calm water, but don’t be surprised if you feel a bit of a bounce should you hit chop going that fast. With a base price right around $48,000 this 17-foot, 8-inch boat offers a lot. And as a nice cherry on top, thanks to her classic appeal, she retains some of the best resale value in the industry. If you are looking for a rugged, fast, versatile and instantly recognizable vessel to tie up behind your house it would be difficult to find a better fit than the Boston Whaler Montauk 170.
BOAT SPOTLIGHT By Kevin Koenig
Cobalt A 29
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A feature creature dayboat that sets hearts aflutter.
t’s always evident when a salesperson really loves a boat model, as opposed to when it is just another product they need to move off the lot. And in the case of the Cobalt A 29 and Mark Matson, sales manager at the Sister Bay-Door County location for The Boat House in Wisconsin, the genuine affection was abundantly clear. “This is the kind of boat I’d love to put my family on a cloudless, 80-degree day and shoot up to an island,” he says. “We’d have some lunch, go swimming, and use the Lilypad to full advantage before cruising home with the wind in our hair at 38 miles per hour.” You may now be wondering what he meant by a Lilypad. The Lilypad is a proprietary floating sunpad that can inflate out of and then roll back into the A 29. It’s a hit with owners who want to extend their boat’s entertainment space while also cooling off in the water.
But the Lilypad is just one of a number of features that make Cobalt’s A 29 such an enticing choice for family fun on the water. A massive hardtop overhead provides shade for a large percentage of the main deck — always an excellent feature when you need respite from the rays. Matson also loves the cuddy. “It’s definitely not a cabin,” he says. “But it’s great for a little kid who needs a break, or a nursing mother, or anyone who just needs a small space to recharge or find some privacy.” He also points to the boat’s proprietary hydraulic swim platform as a main draw since this boat is meant to be used by active people who likely will want to go for a swim or two when they are on the hook. The Cobalt also has a seaworthy and stable hull that Matson says handles the two-to-three footers that he sees often on the lakes with ease. And what’s not to love about that?
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 29 Beam: 9' Draft: 28" / 38" Weight: 7,275 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 121 gals. Water Capacity: 18 gals. Power: 380 - 430 hp Base Price: $230,204 COBALTBOATS.COM
DEALER The Boat House
BOATHOUSEH20.COM
WATCH THE VIDEO AT
LAKELANDBOATING.COM
L AKEL ANDBOATING.COM
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BOAT SPOTLIGHT By Kevin Koenig
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 36’7” Beam: 13’2” Draft: 29” Weight: 15,224 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 344 gals. Water Capacity: n/a Power: 1,350 hp Base Price: See dealer GRADYWHITE.COM
DEALERS South Shore Marine
SOUTHSHOREMARINE.COM
Desmasdon’s Boat Works DESMASDONS.COM
Drummond Marine
DRUMMONDMARINE.COM
Jerry’s Majestic Marine
JERRYSMAJESTIC.COM
Mega Powersports & Marine
MEGAPOWERSPORTS.COM
The Boat House
BOATHOUSEH2O.COM
24 AUGUST 2025
Grady-White 370 Express
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A legendary tradition of versatility and seaworthiness.
rady-White is as legendary a brand as it gets in boating. The builder has made itself a household name by turning out seaworthy and versatile boats since way back in 1959. The trick to carrying that success well into the 21st century is rooted — somewhat ironically — in the builder’s traditional values. While having no fear of innovation, Grady-White is also slow to change from its time-honored values. An excellent example of this ethos is the GradyWhite Express 370 which just arrived at South Shore Marine in Huron, Ohio. “The biggest thing people will realize about this boat once they take her for a sea trial is her ride,” says Matt Grieves, the brokerage’s sales manager. “This hull is great and it can eat up anything we see up here in the Great Lakes.” Grieves also praises the boat for its versatility. “She is excellent for fishing, and that’s how a lot of our guys use her primarily,” he says. “But you
can cruise this boat really well too. She sleeps four comfortably and I think a lot of people are going to be impressed by her accommodations level.” For anglers, the 370 Express offers ample space in the cockpit, an in-transom livewell, in-sole fishboxes, and stowage for bait and lures. And with a standard, triple 450-horsepower Yamaha setup the 370 Express can fly out to the fish to the tune of a 48-knot top end, while cruising comfortably and efficiently at right around 35 knots. “The perfect day on this boat would be to head out early in nice weather and catch some fish,” says Grieves. “Then you could shoot over to the sandbar and grill them up on the cockpit grill. And the nice part is if it’s raining on the way home, it’s got that enclosed space on the main deck to keep everyone comfortable.” It’s days like that that keep people coming back to Grady-White.
BOAT SPOTLIGHT By Kevin Koenig
Hurricane 24 Center Console
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Attracting attention wherever she goes.
hen it debuted at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the Hurricane 24 Center Console made waves despite not even being in the water, as she was housed in a convention center. The reason people were so delighted with this debut lies in this model’s versatility both as a cruiser and as an angling platform. She’s also fast, well built, seaworthy, and would make an excellent choice for a lake near you. Though the boat can be outfitted with a single 400-horsepower outboard, she will likely be better set up with twin 150-horsepower engines. With that power configuration the Hurricane 24 can hit a rollicking 50.1 miles per hour. Her deep-V hull splits the sea and offers grippy, confidence-inducing performance even in chop, while a hybrid flare at her bow bats down wayward waves as she zips along. For fishing, the boat comes standard with a 23-gallon livewell, multiple rod holders scattered
about her deck, and extra stowage for bait and lures. She also is available with a fishing package that includes a trolling motor, rocket launchers and a casting bow deck, among other amenities. For cruising, the boat has convertible seating in both the bow and the cockpit, and a thumping JL Audio system available with six speakers and subwoofers. Wireless phone chargers, LED lighting and a handy swim ladder make this boat an excellent choice as a family friendly getaway machine. An enclosed head with porta-potty or electric flush options is also available. This boat comes priced right around $68,000 or so depending on how she is kitted out. For that you get a lot of boat for the money and one that will keep everyone from hearty anglers to your smallest grandkid smiling from ear to ear. This Hurricane 24 Center Console is a fun machine no matter where you take her.
SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 24'2" Beam: 8'10" Weight: 5,500 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 100 gals. Water Capacity: N/A Power: 400 hp Base Price: $67,584 HURRICANEBOATS.COM
DEALERS CenterPointe Marine CENTERPOINTE SERVICE.COM
The Boat House
BOATHOUSEH2O.COM
Walstrom Marine
WALSTROM.COM
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BOAT TEST By Chuck Warren
SACS REBEL 50 | G P HOTOS S ACS
SLEEK AND UNIQUE.
26 AUGUST 2025
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E
stablished in 1989, Italian yacht builder SACS Marine has made a global name for itself by creating unique vessels which, in its words, combine the comforts of a Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat (RIB) with the opulence of a luxury yacht. Based in Milan, the company offers four models in the US with its exclusive distributor, Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales, including both inboard and outboard power options. I was recently standing on the dock at Jefferson Beach when Captain Matt Ginsburg rounded the corner in the brand-new SACS Rebel 50 | G and cruised down the fairway to pick me up for a test ride. Talk about making an entrance — everyone who saw the boat sliding up commented on its striking appearance. Our boat featured a glistening white hull with deep black accents, including the big hullside windows. As it drew nearer, its beautiful teak deck and swim platform came into view, providing an eye-catching contrast to the white hull and structure. The 2025 Rebel 50 | G represents the latest in a series of innovative designs which the company describes as a “fusion between Italian craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.” Both elements are immediately and clearly visible in the Rebel 50 | G, both inside and out. At just over 50 feet in length and with a 16.5-foot beam, the Rebel is a lot of boat. However, the 50-footer manages to pull off a “stout, stylish, sleek” mix that stands out from the crowd. “Owning the SACS Rebel 50 isn’t just about having a boat, it’s about making a statement,” said Ginsberg. “This isn’t a vessel for someone who just wants to blend in. It’s for the bold, the unapologetic, the ones who believe the journey should be just as thrilling as the destination.”
DARE TO BE DIFFERENT
When you see the Rebel 50 | G for the first time, your eyes are immediately drawn to the sides of boat, where the hull shows its most unique design element. You would expect the Rebel to share some DNA with SACS’s other rigid inflatable models, and it does. Sort of. 28 AUGUST 2025
What sets the Rebel 50 | G apart is the unique use of D-shaped, foam-filled tubes. Known as D-fender tubes, these Hypalon-covered sections on the fiberglass hull sides provide several unique advantages over a traditional glass-only hull. The first, and most obvious, advantage is an added level of impact protection. Nudge the dock and the Rebel’s D-fender tubes provide greater resistance to scratches and gouges than a traditional hard fiberglass hull would. If an ill-timed gust of wind leads to making contact with another boat, there is unlikely to be any hard feelings or serious discussions between captains with the D-fender tubes helping to cushion the impact. The other, less obvious advantage created by the D-fender hull sides is an increase in buoyancy. When the boat rocks, the foam-filled tubes act as dampeners, reducing roll whether the boat is underway or at rest. While the foam-filled D-fender tubes might be the most innovative design feature on the 2025 SACS Rebel 50 | G, that’s only the start on a boat that has so much more to love. Our test boat’s dual side-entry doors and dual access from the huge hydraulic swim platform made it easy to step aboard the Rebel 50 | G. Once onboard, the spacious aft deck invites you to settle in with its large U-lounge and adjustable teak table, creating a great space for drinks or meals al fresco. Or, stretch out on the spacious aft sunpad that overlooks the stern and work on that Mediterranean tan. THE GREAT INDOORS
Walkways on either side of the boat lead forward to the bow, where contoured seating and another large sunpad covering the cabin top await. Heading inside, sliding entry doors and retractable windows along both sides create a bright, airy salon that feels like the perfect blend of interior and exterior space. Here we find another design innovation. Instead of using the traditional retractable panel, the sunroof on the Rebel 50 | G opens like a louvered
window, making it easy to adjust the incoming light and airflow while allowing for a larger overall opening. Below, SACS made great use of the available space while still maintaining the boat’s sporty profile. The test boat cabin included a port-side galley and starboard-side head. Forward, the wide main cabin features a surprising amount of headroom in a space that’s brightly lit by the large hullside windows. Aft, the full-width guest cabin is also surprisingly roomy, and also flooded with light. The twin bunks can be converted to a double with an optional feature. Back up top, the test boat’s helm, control, navigation and running information is presented by Volvo’s glass-cockpit and twin Garmin touchscreens. The test boat came with two bucket seats, but a third bucket or bench seat is optional. With standard features that include a bow thruster, a joystick, an anchor windlass and a garage, the Rebel 50 | G is very nicely equipped right out of the box. However, there is no shortage of options available to allow endless personalization. PUT THE HAMMER DOWN
As we left the dock for our test ride, I immediately noticed how quiet the boat was underway. Once out on Lake Michigan, Captain Matt throttled up the twin Volvo Penta IPS950s and the 50-footer responded quickly and with very little bow rise. On plane, the Rebel 50 | G cruised comfortably at 30 mph, while wideopen throttle pushed the boat to a very respectable 38 mph. Although Lake Michigan was nearly flat calm during our sea trail, Captain Matt was able to stir things up with the boat’s own wake so I could get a better taste of the ride, which was consistently soft, dry and quiet. “With twin 725-horsepower engines, she tops out at over 38 mph, and her styling is sharp enough to stop traffic,” said Ginsberg. “The Rebel 50 isn’t here to play nice — it’s here to rewrite the rules of what a luxury RIB can be.”
SACS REBEL 50 | G SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 50'2" Beam: 16'7" Draft: 4'4" Displacement: 50,000 lbs. (approx.) Fuel Capacity: 497 gals. Water Capacity: 119 gals. Waste Capacity: 42 gals. Power: 2 x Volvo Penta D11-IPS950 725-hp diesels Price: Contact dealer SACSMARINE.COM
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D-fender tubes protect the boat Multiple floorplans available Excellent ride underway
DEALER Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales St. Clair Shores, MI; Charlevoix, MI; Chicago, IL; Holland, MI; Grand Haven, MI; Spring Lake, MI; Marblehead, OH; Naples, FL JBYS.COM
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The ability to convert the guest cabin beds from twins to full should be a standard feature
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BOAT TEST
By Capt. Ken Kreisler
WELLCRAFT 38 T-TOP 30 AUGUST 2025
W
ith almost 70 years of innovative boat building in its wake, starting with a series of Ray Hunt-designed deep-V hulls in the 1970s through its exciting high performance Scarabs to its lineup of tournament-tested, center console fishing boats, Wellcraft has established itself as one of the most familiar and highly regarded manufacturers in the industry. Today’s 38 T-Top, utilizing all the company’s expertise and advanced construction with forward thinking design and engineering in balancing all usable space aboard with outstanding performanc — a hallmark of the company’s heritage – clearly reinforces Wellcraft’s position in the highly competitive center console sector.
A recognizable difference. “When we designed and engineered the 38 T-Top, we set out to build anything but a typical center console,” said Nick Vosinek, director of Sales America for Beneteau and Wellcraft, and my guide during my time with the boat. “Versatility and multi-purpose usage across the experience of being out on the water were in the design phase and incorporated into production, and are key components of this boat.” Vosinek and I met our Wellcraft 38 T-Top at Sunrise Marina, near West Palm Beach, Florida, and my impressions upon first look echoed his sentiments. From where I stood on the quay overlooking the marina, it did not take much effort to spot my charge for the day. Indeed, the 38 T-Top easily stood out from the other boats in the dock with her sleek exterior lines, fine entry and plumb bow with a noticeable amount of beam carried forward, and deep freeboard — far different than the profile usually associated with most center consoles. Indeed, as we made our way down to the finger dock, she seemed be gently tugging on her lines as if to indicate this is a boat which belongs out on the water and not tied up. The design teams Michael Peters, one of the most respected naval architects in the industry, and known for his efficient hull shapes, with the interior and exterior layout envisioned by well-known designer Camillo Garroni. The result combines seating and comfort while engaging in all day use during a wide variety of activities including cruising, fishing, hanging on the hook at a favorite anchorage, as well as participating in water sports, and even includes overnight and extended weekend stays for the more adventurous couple.
CREDIT P HOTOS WELLCRAF T
A lap around — and below — the deck
Stepping onto her aft deck, it was obvious, given the 38 T-Top’s walkaround layout, how easy it would be to navigate going back and forth from bow to stern while at the same time availing yourself of its many exterior features. Starting astern, the seating layout, to port and starboard, lends itself to this boat’s prime directive of optimizing entertaining space. An aft bench easily lifts up and disappears into the transom when more deck space is needed in this area for fishing or keeping an eye on skiers or swimmers behind the boat. For those wishing to fish, there’s a baitwell under the middle starboard seating space, a trio of rod holders across the transom, and six rocket launchers on the full beam T-Top. There’s a towing eye centered in the aft section of the hardtop as well. With the transom bench down, the now L-shaped seating offers several configurations including tables which
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can be split into two separate dining areas. And there is generous storage space in the deck and beneath the port bench seat. Complimenting the forward cockpit space here are sink, refrigerator, grill and storage consoles, one to port with the other to starboard, with additional storage and fishing amenities just aft of the helm seats. Suitable passageways on either side allow for a wide enough opening forward. And then, of course, there’s a terrace aft and to port that when deployed, extends the beam to allow for extra room to enter and reboard, or a pleasant place to set up a deck chair and take it all in. Located amidships is the well-equipped helm, surrounded by a glass enclosure courtesy of her T-Top, with three individual bolstered seats, the middle for the driver, and all able to be independently adjusted. The console is equipped with a pair of 16-inch Garmin touchscreens and well-placed backlit buttons and controls including throttles, bow thruster, tab switches and Active Trim, joystick, VHF and anything else critical to safe operations, all within easy reach. A neat addition here, on the top of the console, and opened and closed with the touch of a button, is a vent which raises up to allow air to flow inwards. Because of its positioning, it does not compromise the driver’s sightlines forward. A grate prevents any debris from entering when the vent is in the open position. Further, there are flap-like wings on either side of the helm which face outwards to divert the wind while underway. Views into the seaway ahead and from side to side, and aft, are excellent. At the bow, again with the added beam being able to be carried forward, and accessed from port or starboard of the helm, there are robust stainless rails for firm handholds on the gunnels. Recessed rod holders are in the deep bulwarks along with boarding steps on both sides. Found fully forward is a C-shape couch, which can function as a pair of lounges, and easily seats four. There is added storage space beneath the cushions. A table, located on the deck, is electrically operated and raises and lowers flush when needed. It can also, with a filler cushion, be used to form a large sunpad. Just aft of that is a centerline, two person lounger, also with storage below. Of note is the deep well up here, designed to allow for great viewing while underway while at the same time providing a safe and secure space.
Living quarters
My tour of the Wellcraft 38 T-Top also revealed her living accommodations below. Accessed via a hefty, well-designed hatch-like door on the port side of the helm console with impressive opening and closing hinges clearly designed for heavy-duty use, wide stairs lead down into the forepeak berth and head. With approximately 61⁄2 ' of headroom at the opening, the sleeping area takes the shape of the bow as it tapers going forward. There is storage space on the port side. Aft and to starboard is the head featuring an electric toilet and separate stand-up shower compartment with sink and cabinet on the aft bulkhead. In the end, and given the amount of deck space above allotted to bow, helm and cockpit, the accommodations below are more than adequate for those times when a couple might want to be somewhat adventurous and extend their cruising time. Helping to make that opportunity more enjoyable are the 16,000 BTU air conditioning unit and the Victron inverter charger 12V/115V/60HZ 5KVA, and Victron 600AH lithium ion battery pack. And for real comfort while underway, there is the optional Seakeeper SK3.
Heritage of performance
With a tradition of performance built into every Wellcraft, the 38 T-Top, equipped with a wide choice of power options, taps into that same DNA. With triple 350-hp Mercury V10 outboards astern, and after quicky jumping up on plane during several out-of-the-hole-shots, at 2000 rpm her easy cruising speed was 10.6mph/9.2kts with a 144sm/125.17nm range. At 3000 rpm, she was humming along at 19.5mph/16.9kts and a range of 159.1sm/138.26nm. The fireworks began as the throttles registered 5000 rpm and a speed of 39.0mph /33.9kn. At that rate, 32 AUGUST 2025
her range is calculated at 126.2sm/109.7nm. Sliding up to 6000 rpm and 56.7mph /49.3kts, an estimated 132.7sm/115.32nm range was noted. At WOT, that being 6400 rpm, her speed stood at 57.5mph /50.0kts with a computed range of 134.6sm/116.96nm. All these numbers were taken with gps, in nautical miles, with a 20% reserve of her 266 gallon fuel tank. During her time on the water, and running on her responsive Michael Peters hull bottom, she held rpm on tight turns, answered the helm with assurance during hard over and S-turn maneuvers, and tracked straight and true. Of course while each day’s conditions can be different, given variable wind and sea conditions, the Wellcraft 38 T-Top showed itself to be the kind of boat you want underfoot just in case things quickly go south.
A word on construction
From the moment I stepped on board the Wellcraft 38 T-Top, I could tell she was solidly built. There was no deck flexing anywhere above or below and all hatches and compartments opened easily and closed with authority. Gasketed lids are everywhere. In addition, Wellcraft, always on the cutting edge of boat building and using the latest in material and techniques, has incorporated its patented Infujection Process. Known as WISE, for Wellcraft Infujection Structural Engineering, it allows for a higher horsepower-to-weight ratio due to precise amounts of resin and gel, vastly improves durability, provides a much quieter, seaworthy ride, and is less prone to gel coat cracks and blemishes. Boiled down to its component parts, the hull and entire structure are produced in one shot with foam-filled stringers. The result is significant weight reduction in the hull while maintaining proper stiffness, much more than hand-laid up hulls. The fine fit and finish, and overall attention to detail, is quite noticeable.
Thoughts and observations
My day aboard the Wellcraft 38 T-Top ended with us backing our test boat into a rather tight slip. With the wind to port and the incoming tide running somewhat strong through the narrow channel, using both bow thruster and the precision maneuvering of our joystick easily slipped us into the dock where our preset lines were waiting. And while the Wellcraft maintenance crew broke out the hoses and brushes, Vosinek and I were able to spend a few moments discussing what the day produced. “This boat does redefine what a center console should be in terms of versatility, performance, and seating and entertainment capabilities,” he said. “And that helped getting her named European Boat of The Year.” After my short yet concentrated time aboard, it was obvious the Wellcraft approach to designing and engineering the 38 T-Top resulted in a boat which easily covers the spectrum of on-water activities in an elegant and luxurious way. She offers both the family’s need for comfort and safety while cruising, engaging in water sports, hanging on the hookat the sandbar or chasing big fish far offshore. After all, the 38 T-Top is a Wellcraft, with a performance soul and built high and wide, with great headroom, for the American market. The 38 T-Top comes with a long list of standard equipment, the choice of two or three outboard engines with up to 1,050 combined horsepower and optional gear, including hull, bottom, and accent colors, along with other premium offerings. Should a center console in this size range be lighting up your radar screen, schedule a visit to your local dealer, set up a sea trial, and experience what all the buzz is about for yourself.
Wellcraft 38 T-Top SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 38'4" Beam: 10'9" Draft: 25" Displacement: 14,109 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 266 gals. Water Capacity: 42 gals. Power: 1,050 hp Base Price: $507,100 WELLCRAFT.COM
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DEALERS Aqua-Mania
AQUA-MANIA.COM
Bridgeport Marine
BRIDGEPORTMARINE.COM
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Excellent use of deck space Glass enclosed helm Deep bulwarks from bow to stern
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More space between transom and outboards would be nice
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FEATURE By Kim Racette
Scamp
N
ot far from the port of Hessel on Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula lie the Les Cheneaux Islands, a beautiful collection of more than 36 individual land masses standing proudly over the surface of Lake Huron. It’s a fitting backdrop for a unique celebration that will take place this August as storied boat yard E.J. Mertaugh Boat Works marks its 100th anniversary. The company’s centennial celebrations will be front and center at the Classic and Antique Wooden Boat Show and Festival of the Arts, held each year during the second week of August. The largest wooden boat show in the world, the event represents an apt salute to a marine business that’s been woven deeply into the fabric of its local community for 100 years. It’s even more fitting given that most of the elegant watercraft on display are themselves regular recipients of preventative care at the hands of Mertaugh’s master craftsmen, if they weren’t sold new by the company to begin with. Organized by the Les Cheneaux Historical Association in cooperation with E.J. Mertaugh Boat Works, the Hessel/Clark Township Marina, and the Hessel Harbour Association, the boat show presents a unique-in-the-world panorama of meticulously maintained classic 34 AUGUST 2025
wooden boats. “This show is a collaboration of high quality materials, unparalleled workmanship, and pride in the individualism of the owners,” says Kate Conlon, E.J. Mertaugh Boat Works’ marketing coordinator. She notes that a special celebration is planned to commemorate the E.J. Mertaugh centennial coincident with the 2025 Classic and Antique Wooden Boat Show and Festival of the Arts on August 8 and 9, with updates to be posted on the company’s social media platforms.
FROM HUMBLE ROOTS
Today Les Cheneaux (French for ‘the channels’) still appear much as they did in 1925 when Eugene James Mertaugh — Gene to his friends — first laid eyes on this part of the world. Discovered in 1679 by La Salle, the archipelago has long been part of an important series of water highways and, with access to both Mackinac Island and Sault Ste. Marie, was a vital route for both communication and commerce. Mertaugh quickly recognized a future demand for reliable transportation in the area, and decided to stay. Using scrap lumber, he promptly constructed a boat house in the small port town of Hessel.
The boat house soon became a successful boat repair business, before expanding to become the first Chris-Craft dealership in the world. “Back when Gene built the boat house, there was a huge need to provide transportation for folks living on the islands,” says Conlon. “That is how people in this area were able to get on with their lives.” Many of the original wooden boats sold in those early days remain with their original families, she says, or remain with the lakefront properties even if the ownership has changed over time. With few roads, new boats weren’t delivered to the dealership by truck as they are today, but simply driven up Lake Huron from the Chris-Craft factory in Algonac using only a compass for navigation. Of course not all of these delivery runs went smoothly. Among the more harrowing trips up the big lake was a 1928 voyage in Scamp, a 22-foot Chris-Craft Cadet runabout. “Gene would go get the boats on the St. Clair River, and drive them to the marina. And they were always filled with extra parts since there was no UPS then,” she says. “Back in 1928 he was bringing Scamp from Algonac to the marina, heavily loaded of course.
P HOTOS P ROVIDED
100 Years of Excellence
E.J. Mertaugh Boat Works celebrates a century of going the extra mile as a fixture on Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula. Along the way a terrible storm blew up. He battled 8-foot rollers for hours, and then hit a log in Saginaw Bay.” After tying himself to the side of the boat, Mertaugh worked in the waves for hours in an attempt to change the prop shaft with his feet before managing to flag down a passing freighter. “It took two hours to haul the boat up onto the deck of the freighter, but Gene eventually got it home,” Conlon marvels. “He was badly battered and bruised, and it took two weeks for him to recover. Scamp ended up in California for many years, but once it turned up, Dad went to get it and bring it back.” That he did, and the firm is currently restoring the vessel with the hope of putting it on public display. “It takes incredible expertise to restore, maintain and keep these old boats running,” says Conlon. “A lot of the trades have been passed down to second generation woodworkers in our marina, and they have a wealth of knowledge.” That kind of tribal know-how is what allows E. J. Mertaugh to keep 100 year-old boats looking brand new, whether for proud owners or for use in major Hollywood productions, such as the 2016 Disney film The Finest Hours.
Starring a young Chris Pine, the film features a self-righting Coast Guard motor lifeboat that was not quite ready for its close-up, at least until the crew at E.J. Mertaugh swung into action. “The boat was driftwood when we received it, really just a pile of lumber,” says Conlon. “But after a full restoration it was used in the movie. It’s now at the Whitefish Point Museum.”
BACK TO THE FUTURE
Much has changed in the 100 years since E.J. Mertaugh Boat Works first opened its doors, with the company maintaining a unique balance between embracing new technology without compromising the old world craftsmanship that has set it apart. Facility expansions, including the addition of 30,000 feet of heated storage, would clearly make Gene proud. “I think Gene would be amazed at the equipment and machinery that have streamlined the business and made it more efficient,” says Conlon. “Gene would be thrilled to see that the boats he sold new have endured over the years.” The business changed hands in the 1980s when it was acquired by Conlon’s grandfather,
Bruce Glupker. “Grandpa always had a passion for boating,” she says. “My parents, Brad and Shelley Koster, took over in 2000, so we’ve been involved with it for the past 40 years. It is an honor to be stewards of the unbelievable history of this marina and these boats. “The future of boating is exciting, and we have seen that a lot of younger people have a renewed interest in and appreciation of wooden boats,” she adds. “They are a labor of love and a slower experience than the newest, biggest, fastest fiberglass boats, but they are just as rewarding, and something that can be passed down for generations to come.” That sense of heritage and legacy loom large among the glistening waters bisecting Les Cheneaux Islands. The lake today doesn’t look much different than it did 100 years ago, when Gene Mertaugh plied the same channels bringing new Chris-Crafts up from Lake St. Clair. Many of the wooden classics still gracing these waters still look as good as the day they arrived, thanks to the attentive maintenance they receive at E.J. Mertaugh Boat Works. As the current owners of E.J. Mertaugh Boat Works usher in another century, only time will tell what their legacy will be. But Gene’s vision, steered by Conlon’s family, is full steam ahead.
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Ha Ha Tonka State Park
FEATURE
By Damaine Vonada
hen my friends and I arrived at H. Toad’s Bar and Grill a faux green frog with giant eyes, a wide grin, and a Pepto-Bismol pink tongue greeted us at the entrance. Perched overlooking a lakeside cove, our table on H. Toad’s deck afforded fine views of the water, the public boat slips and marina, and adjacent Camden on the Lake Resort. We were meeting with Heather Brown, executive director of the Lake of the Ozarks Convention and Visitor Bureau. While we munched bourbon-glazed burgers and sipped Lake Water cocktails (a Lake of the Ozarks classic containing Blue Curacao, pineapple juice, and coconut rum), Brown explained that the massive, dragon-shaped lake covers 54,000 acres in the heart of Missouri. It also boasts more miles of shoreline — 1,150 to be precise — than California. Lake of the Ozarks was the nation’s largest man-made lake when it opened on May 30, 1931. Known as LOZ to locals, it was created by Union Electric when it built the Bagnell Dam on the Osage River to generate hydroelectric power for the city of St. Louis. The lake’s 92-mile-long main channel is called the Osage arm, and it has four tributary-fed arms — Gravois, Grand Glaize, Big Niangua, and Little Niangua. All that water makes LOZ a first-class fishing spot for bass, crappie and catfish, and ace angler Bob Bueltmann’s website — BASSINGBOB.COM — is the go-to resource for updates about what’s biting and where to reel them in.
36 AUGUST 2025
Easy accessibility
Because LOZ was privately funded, property lines extend all the way to the lakeshore. Thus, it’s a relatively affordable location for second homes, especially for out-of-state buyers. Major airports in St. Louis and Kansas City are within 3 hours, and interstate highways I-70, I-44 and I-49 make LOZ easily accessible for drivers trailering runabouts, jet skis and bass boats. Launch your LOZ adventures at the place where the lake began — Willmore Lodge, the sprawling, pine log-structure that Union Electric built as its administrative center during Bagnell Dam’s construction. Today it’s on the National Register of Historic Places and houses both the LOZ Visitors Center and Bagnell Dam History Museum. The free museum’s exhibits range from George Catlin’s 1830s paintings of Osage Indians to photos documenting the dam’s construction, and the Lodge’s must-see lake view is simply extraordinary. Bagnell Dam Boulevard, a.k.a. Bus. Hwy. 54, crosses the top of the dam, and west of it, the Bagnell Dam Strip has been a tourist magnet since the 1930s. Its kitschy attractions include a homey Stewart’s Restaurant that serves enormous cinnamon rolls and the Malted Monkey’s rope course and liquorspiked milkshakes, but the Boulevard also leads to a fine dining surprise — JB Hook’s, which dishes out legendary steaks, seafood and lake views.
LAKE OF THE OZARKS CVB / FUNLAKE.COM
OF THE
Oz lake W
Bagnell Dam
Central Missouri’s famous lake is beautiful, fun, and full of surprises.
TOP P HOTOS: LAKE OF THE OZARKS CVB / FUNLAKE.COM
zarks Tip: try JB Hook’s signature Mayfair salad, a St. Louis original with creamy anchovy dressing. In nearby Osage Beach, Wobbly Boots’ awardwinning smoked meats are a hybrid of the styles of barbecue hubs such as St. Louis, Kansas City, Texas and Memphis. Its tangy, house-made sauce has a hint of heat, and the hearty sides include pork-laced baked beans and cheesy corn with ham. On LOZ’s main channel, Shorty Pants Lounge hugs the lakefront, offers live entertainment, and specializes in Cajun cuisine. Think jambalaya and crawfish-nshrimp étouffée plus delish sides like sweet bourbon carrots and cornbread muffins served with honey.
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Park it
Southeast of Osage Beach, Lake of the Ozarks State Park is the largest in Missouri, a 17,500-acre oasis where some 2 million annual visitors enjoy the woodlands, wildlife, campgrounds, trails, beaches and marinas that surround 85 miles of scenic Grand Glaize shoreline. Assistant superintendent Brian Fredrick met my group at the Grand Glaize Beach Marina for a pontoon tour of the park’s remarkable Aquatic Trail, which gives boaters a from-the-water perspective on geological and cultural features. As we departed the dock, Fredrick stated the obvious. “This is a beautiful and fun place to be,” he said. “Everybody who comes here is in a good mood.” Beautiful indeed, for as Fredrick noted, Missouri’s
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Willmore Lodge
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Hiking Ha Ha Tonka State Park
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Lake of the Ozarks Convention and Visitor Bureau FUNLAKE.COM
38 AUGUST 2025
karst landscape consists of porous limestone and dolomite bedrock. It’s easily eroded by water, and the Aquatic Trail’s dramatic rock formations include recess caves and the fancifully named “Nature’s Window” stone arch. On the Big Niangua, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a geologic wonderland whose karst topography includes a 70-foot-wide natural bridge and the Colosseum, a 500-foot-long sinkhole that formed when a giant cavern collapsed. Named for Ha Ha Tonka Lake, which means “laughing waters” in Osage, the park is best-known for the ruins of a 60-room castle that Kansas City tycoon Robert Snyder started building in 1904. Snyder died before the castle was completed, and even though his sons finished it, a 1942 fire destroyed it and turned its skeleton into an unnatural attraction. Straddling the tip of cove on LOZ’s main channel, the family-owned-and-operated Alhonna Resort is an oldie but goodie that has spawned multi-generation memories ever since its 1954 debut. Its casual Blue Cat Lounge bar and
Rocky Top Trail, Lake of the Ozarks State Park
restaurant inspired the Netflix series Ozark, and its marina, which has an enclosed fishing dock, offers transient and overnight slips.
Cheeseburger in paradise
From its photo-op sculpture of blue flip-flops to the Jolly Mon indoor waterpark to WaveRunner rentals, Margaritaville Lake Resort gives a nod to the singersongwriter Jimmy Buffet’s laidback lifestyle. Add a spa, pools, multiple dining-and-drinking venues (tip: Windrose Marker 26 Lakeside Dining enjoys particularly splendid sunset views), and The Oaks golf course that renowned architects Bruce Devlin and Robert von Hagge designed, and you’ve got a something-for-everybody destination. The Grande Dame of LOZ’s waterfront resorts, the Lodge of the Four Seasons, sits on the main channel and balances a sophisticated modern aesthetic with gorgeous Japanese gardens designed by Masaji “Buffy” Murai. Its two golf courses — The Cove, by Robert Trent Jones and The Ridge, by Ken Kavanaugh — yield stunning lake views that make it
THIS PAGE: LAKE OF THE OZARKS CVB / FUNLAKE.COM
Castle ruins, Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Old Kinderhook Resort and Golf Club
TOP 2 PHOTOS: LAKE OF T HE OZARKS CVB / FUNLA KE.COM; MIDDLE PHOTO : MARG ARTI VILLE WEBSI TE; FOUR SEA SONS FACEBOOK
Shopping at The Landing on Main Street
hard to keep your eye on the ball. There’s also HK’s — an elegant steakhouse famed for its onion rings — and a marina which offers a captain’s service as well as sunset cruises on a floating tiki bar. The Lake of the Ozarks Golf Trail’s 12 challenging courses take full advantage of the area’s distinctive landscape of wooded hills, rocky bluffs and sparkling lake vistas. One of the prettiest is Old Kinderhook Resort and Golf Club, a hidden gem where the dense morning mist slowly rises from the lush course that Tom Weiskopf masterfully tucked into the undulating Ozark landscape. Old Kinderhook’s iconic Lodge overlooks the golf course, and since the resort borders the Big Niangua, it not only uses lake water for irrigation but also has transient slips for boaters who want to bring their clubs, have a nice dinner in The Trophy Room, and stay overnight. The reality is when you visit LOZ, you find you really don’t want to leave. It may not be the Great Lakes, but it is a great lake in its own right, and worth getting to know.
Margaritaville Resort marina Four Seasons Lodge
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Ludington
PORT OF CALL By Jane Ammeson
Lake Michigan
Silver Lake
Spring Lake Milwaukee
Grand Haven Holland
St. Joseph
PURE MICH IG A N / RYA N G AJEWSK I
Chicago
The
40 AUGUST 2025
Tour
Grand ADD MAP!!
With its facilities for visiting boaters, vibrant waterfront, lively brewpubs and great beaches, GRAND HAVEN, MICHIGAN deserves a spot on every
CREDIT
Great Lakes boater’s bucket list.
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Downtown dining
Grand Haven pier Downtown shopping
42 AUGUST 2025
Grand Armory Brewing
OP POSIT E PAGE: P URE MICHIG AN / RYAN G AJEWSKI; PURE MICHI G AN; BREWERY FACEBOOK; P URE MICHIG AN / RYAN G AJEWSKI
PURE MICHIG AN / RYAN G AJ E WSKI ; VI SI T GRAN D H AVE N
Boardwalk
O
verlooking Lake Michigan from its eastern shore, Grand Haven started out as a trading post established by Rix Robinson for Jacob Astor’s American Fur Company. At the time, the region was known as Gabagouache, a Pottawattamie term meaning big mouth. And what a big mouth it is! The Grand River — Michigan’s longest with a length of 252 miles — flows through the city of Grand Haven on its way to Cutler House pouring more than 2.7 billion gallons of water into the lake each day, enough to fill 4,210 Olympic-sized swimming pools. With its wide river mouth representing an attractive natural harbor, Gabagouache gained prominence as a fur trading post. But as times changed and beaver top hats fell out of style, settlers adapted and turned their attention to lumber instead. The Rev. William Ferry, along with Robinson and Ferry’s brother-in-law Nathan White, built a sawmill and renamed the settlement Grand Haven, which was felt to sound far more dignified than big mouth. Located just 14 miles from Muskegon and 36 miles from Grand Rapids, the new community boomed — and particularly as demand for white pine soared in the wake of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. But just as the fur trade came and went, so too did the lumber business, and by the late 1800s Grand Haven reinvented itself yet again as a resort destination. Cottages soon dotted the landscape, and large hotels lined the bluffs overlooking the river and lakefront. The 300-room Cutler House not only boasted both hot and cold running water, but also gas lights — truly luxurious accommodations for its day by any standard. Grand Haven remains a vacation wonderland today. An estimated 2.1 million visitors visit Grand Haven each year, driven by word of mouth and media attention alike. Grand Haven State Park was named one of the 25 best beaches in the US by Travel + Leisure magazine, while USA Today listed it as among the 10 best beach vacation ideas for families. “The river and the lake are what make Grand Haven such a boater’s paradise and a L AKEL ANDBOATING.COM
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place for people to visit,” says David Lorenz, who recently retired from his position as vice president at Travel Michigan and now divides his time between travel consulting and hosting the WJR Michigan Travel Show. Lorenz and his wife moved to Grand Haven after college and, despite David working in Lansing some 100 miles away, the couple chose to stay in Grand Haven because they loved the city that much.
Coast Guard City USA
The 10-day Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival may have started as an informal picnic to honor light station workers more than 100 years ago, but today it has grown to become one of the state’s largest festivals, attracting up to 350,000 visitors annually. The festival, which runs from July 25 to August 3 this year, combines live entertainment, music, parades, craft shows, a carnival and food vendors in a public celebration of the Coast Guard and its critical work. Fittingly, Grand Haven stands as the only municipality in the country officially designated by an act of Congress as Coast Guard City, USA.
If there’s one thing about Grand Haven, it’s that you won’t go thirsty. Housed in a 1905 historic building, Grand Armory Brewing, on 2nd Street, is known for its unique stouts and sours with 20 hand-crafted brews on tap including New School Gose Watermelon, roggenbiers, a German-style rye beer like their Roggen Rye, ciders, wines, and stouts. They offer food and live entertainment as well, making it a top choice when it’s time to refresh. Just down the road, the tap list at Odd Side Ales features a wide section of intriguingsounding beers like Imperial Mayan Mocha Stout, and a German-style bock lager called Krumpusbock. The ale house prides itself on offering “juicy hoppy and happy beers,” along with a selection of craft cocktails, seltzers, ciders and wine. Grand Haven has a long list of great restaurants too, but if you’re looking for a place to just hang out and soak in the vibe, consider Tip-A-Few. Open for almost a half-century, their offerings are takes on classic Mexican dishes mixed with American menu items like
Grand Haven State Park Noto’s at the Bil-Mar
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Grand Haven City Beach Lakeshore Trolley
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEF T: VISIT GRAND HAVEN / BOB PESKOR SE; PURE MICHIG AN / RYAN G AJEWSKI; TROLLEY FACEBOOK; RESTAURANT FACEBOOK
Breweries, distilleries, and dining
North Shore Marina
MARINE FACILITIES Musical Fountain
Barrett Boat Works, Inc 501 N. Third St., Grand Haven 616-842-5370
VISIT GRAND HAVEN; NORTH SHORE FACEBOOK
BARRETTBOATWORKS.COM
Coney or chili dogs and Mama Vink’s Sloppy Joes. “We drive from Grand Rapids, where we live, to eat there and catch a game,” says Travel Michigan’s Nick Nerbonne. “It’s an extremely comfortable, friendly place.” The owners of the Paisley Grille partner with local farmers to bring fresh farm-to-table menu options to their diners. The menu changes seasonally but offerings can include California style tuna poke, heirloom fried chicken, crispy coconut shrimp, artisan pizzas, lobster rolls and a smoke house chicken sandwich. You may also want to stop at Noto’s at the Bil-Mar, a beachfront restaurant in business since 1952. Nestled between the city beach and the state park, Noto’s menu has a Sicilian flair, with lunch and dinner items ranging from casual items such as wood-fired pizzas, spaghetti, and salads to prime rib, lobster mac and cheese, and fire roasted peach glazed salmon. Their outdoor patio is perfect for catching the sunset on a summer night.
Surf, sun and sand
With 14 parks and beaches, Grand Haven and its satellite communities offer a wide variety of options for outdoor fun. Even Fido gets his own places to enjoy the sun. Both Kirk Park and Grand Haven City Beach, for example, as well as two off-leash dog parks in nearby Spring Lake and Ferrysburg, were designed expressly with pets in mind. The city’s website lists all the particulars. Two-legged beach goers will find Grand Haven City Beach a lively place to spend the day. There’s also the 48-acre Grand Haven State Park, which features a half mile of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline at the mouth of the Grand River. South of town, there are great views for those willing to climb the high bluffs lining the lake shore at the eight-acre Kirk Park. You’ll also find nice walking trails and, should you visit in winter, cross country skiing. If you don’t have your own boat but want to get out on the water, Enjoy Boat Rentals offers a wide range of premium boats to explore the area. Or, board the Grand Haven Cycleboat for a two-hour trip aboard a custom built 2019 Cascade Cycleboat. They provide the coolers, and you provide the food, ice and drink. The boat is Bluetooth connected, and passengers are encouraged to bring their own music for the ride. Starting Sunday May 25 and ending Monday September 1, the Grand Haven Musical Fountain presents a unique synchronized water and light show that runs for about 20 minutes. Presenting a variety of musical choices coordinated with different lighting themes, the shows are a big draw and fun for everyone. For something more active, explore the Grand Haven boardwalk. The three-mile round trip parallels the historic harbor, providing plenty of places to stop and shop, relax with a pastry and a cup of coffee, dine with views of the water, or check out the boats in the marinas. There’s even a lighthouse for that essential photo stop. Grand Haven’s heritage district is easily explored by downloading its Historic Northwest Neighborhood self-guided walking tour guide. The homes here cover a wide range of
Coastal Zone 1719 Pennoyer Ave., Grand Haven 616-402-9676
COASTALZONEMARINA@GMAIL.COM
Grand Haven Yacht Club 501 N. Third St., Grand Haven 616-638-3451 GRANDHAVENYACHT.CLUB
Holiday Isle Marina 940 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake 616-850-1434 HOLIDAYISLEMARINA.COM
Keenan Marina 1211 Jackson St., Grand Haven 616-846-3830
KEENANMARINA.COM/LOCATION/ GRAND-HAVEN
Municipal Marina 101 N. Harbor Dr., Grand Haven 616-847-3478
GRANDHAVEN.ORG/VISITORS/MARINA -AND-BOAT-LAUNCH
North Shore Marina 18275 Berwyck St., Spring Lake 616-842-1488 NORTHSHOREMARINA.COM
River Haven 15006 120th Ave., Grand Haven 616-850-4062
RIVERHAVENMARINA.WIXSITE.COM
Safe Harbor Grand Isle 1 Grand Isle Dr., Grand Haven 616-842-9330
SHMARINAS.COM/LOCATIONS/ SAFE-HARBOR-GRAND-ISLE
Village Cove Marina 900 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake
FACEBOOK.COM/VILLAGECOVEMARINA
Wharf Marina 501 N. 3rd St., Grand Haven WHARFMARINA.COM
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Free Fridays Coast Guard Festival
Merchants + Makers
CALENDAR OF EVENTS 821 W. Savidge Spring Lake, MI 49456 Marina: 616-842-1488
SALES • SLIPS • SERVICE • STORAGE
Your home away from home West Michigan’s Largest and Most Complete Boat Repair Facility Since 1950, North Shore Marina has been more than just simply a fullservice marina… it’s a boating lifestyle. Relax on your boat with friends while enjoying the picturesque views. Spend time with your family in the pool or hang out in our comfortable clubhouse. Let North Shore Marina vbe your ‘Home Away from Home,’ and see why so many people have visited, then decided to stay. • Over 200 fixed & floating slips • Quick access to Lake Michigan • Power, fuel, water, cable, wifi and more • Premier dealer of new and used boats • Year-round service with certified, experienced technicians • Heated and outdoor storage
WWW.NORTHSHOREMARINA.COM
46 AUGUST 2025
August 8, 15 and 22: Free Fridays Concert Series at Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium July 25 - August 3: Coast Guard Festival August 1 & 25: Merchants + Makers August 3: Camp Blodgett Summer Concert August 6: Music on the Grand August 8: Coopersville Car Show & Summerfest August 9: Merchants and Makers Chinook Pier Market #2 August 9: West Michigan Beach Volleyball Bash August 9: Tote Club August 9: Walk the Beat August 13: Tri City Shipwrecks August 14: Free Concert & Exhibition Match – Grand Haven Open Pickleball Tournament August 15: Grand Haven Open Pickleball Tournament August 15 & 16: Annual Sidewalk Sales in Downtown & Centertown Grand Haven August 19: Summer Walking Tour: Grand Haven Historic Boardwalk September 1: Grand Haven Labor Day Bridge Walk 2025 September 7: Holland Haven Marathon XII September 20: Hispanic Heritage Fiesta 2025 October 1: Bones About Town October 4: Chow Down Centertown October 25: Fall Festival
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP” FREE FRIDAYS WEBSITE; VOLLEYBALL BASH FACEBOOK; MERCHANTS + MAKER S FACEBOOK; COAST GUARD FESTIVAL FACEBOOK GROUP
West Michigan Beach Volleyball Bash
SAF E H AR B O R G R AN D I SL E W E B SI TE
architectural styles, some dating back to the 1850s. The guide map provides the addresses of significant properties with a history of the homes and the people who lived there. If you’re looking to explore further afield, the Lakeshore Trolley runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day offering quick and convenient transportation. It’s a great way to get around without having to worry about parking or hauling newly purchased treasures back to the boat. Visit their website for exact times and locations, at HARBORTRANSIT.ORG/TROLLEY.
Safe Harbor Grand Isle
Get started now
Grand Haven is a wonderful place, which means that during the height of summer you might have to hunt around to secure a slip. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and book in advance, and especially for summer weekend stays. “We only have a few slips open, and they book up fast,” says Grand Haven Yacht Club’s Bill Bailey. Located close to the action, it’s a popular spot with transient boaters. But even if you’re not staying there, the club is open to everyone for meals and drinks. Tony Dewildt Harrison, marina/service manager at Keenan Marine, says boaters should call ahead or use the marina’s app to reserve space. Its 29 slips can accommodate boats up to 40 feet and while the marina is not within easy walking distance of the downtown, Dewildt says there’s a biking path that can get you there in about 10 minutes. Safe Harbor Grand Isle, which offers transient slips for boats up to 140 feet, also recommends making advance reservations online. Ready for a grand adventure? With its excellent facilities for visiting boaters and a vibrant waterfront, Grand Haven delivers.
FOR MORE INFO Grand Haven Area Visitors Center 512 Washington Ave., Grand Haven 616.842.4499 VISITGRANDHAVEN.COM
Enjoy Boat Rentals 1719 Pennoyer Ave., Grand Haven 616.207-0116 ENJOYBOATRENTALS.COM
Enjoy Boat Rentals offers an extensive fleet of pristine, premium boats, each boasting powerful, 150-horsepower engines and certified for the expansive waters of Lake Michigan. Whether you’re planning a memorable family outing, a romantic sunset cruise, or an exciting adventure with friends... our experienced, professional team will ensure your journey is nothing short of spectacular! Book your quote online or give us a call. Our friendly team is ready to get you out on the water!
• Easy online booking
• Locally-owned and managed
• Multi-day discounts
• 25+ years of experience
• Same-day service (subject to availability)
• 10% discount for teachers, military personnel and first responders
• Hassle-free cancellations
E N J OY BOAT R E N TA L S .C O M
•
( 6 1 6 ) 2 0 7 - 01 1 6
serving west michigan
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LAKESHORE LIFE By Abby Thorpe
Holland, Michigan
ADDRESS 1761 South Shore Dr. Holland MI 49423
SPECS Bedrooms: 4 Baths: 4 Square Footage: 4,350 Acreage: 0.2 Shoreline: 63 ft. Price: $1,950,000
CONTACT Andrea Crossman Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt 616-218-0267
ANDREACROSSMAN GROUP.COM
48 AUGUST 2025
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A spacious, turnkey retreat on Lake Macatawa.
ituated on Lake Macatawa, 1761 South Shore Drive delivers panoramic lake views from a spacious turn-key home, ready to welcome its new owners to a glorious life on the lake. With 4 beds, 3.5 baths and 4,350 square feet of living space, this home is perfectly laid out to welcome family and friends all season long. The main floor features a bright open kitchen and living area with a fireplace and large windows overlooking the water. A spacious outdoor deck yields panoramic lake views equally enjorable for enjoying morning coffee or evening refreshments. A bedroom and half-bath complete the main floor, with the primary suite located upstairs. An ensuite bathroom features a tub and shower, with a large walk-in closet. The lakeside deck is the ideal place to escape for a little peace and relaxation, while a bright, open sitting room doubles as an office and offers breathtaking
views of the lake beyond. Two more bedrooms and a full bath offer additional space. The lower walkout level features a second living area complete with a kitchen, full bath and large family room with a fireplace, ideal for indoor game and movie nights or as a recreation room with easy access to the lake. Outside, a spacious patio leads to the dock and water beyond. Situated on 0.2 acres, the home offers 63 feet of private water frontage and comes with a dock. Set out on a cruise on Lake Macatawa, or traverse the quick 1.5 miles to the mouth of the channel and explore Lake Michigan. “1761 South Shore Drive is unique in that it’s near Macatawa Bay Yacht Club, Sanctuary Woods preserve and 10 minutes by car to downtown Holland, Saugatuck and Douglas,” says agent Andrea Crossman. “It enjoys some of the best views of Lake Macatawa and is only 1.5 miles or so to the pier, and about 2.5 hours to Chicago or Detroit.”
MARINA WATCH By Abby Thorpe
Oselka Marina, New Buffalo
OSELKA MARINA 514 West Water St. New Buffalo, MI 49117 269-469-2600 OSELKAMARINA.COM
AMENITIES Transient slips: Y Pump-out: Y Gas: Y Diesel: Y Lifts: Y Launch ramp: Customers only Engine repair: Y Hull repair: Y Marine store: Y Restaurant: Y Showers: Y Laundromat: Nearby High speed internet: Y Pool: Y
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Southern Michigan’s full-service marina.
ituated at the southern tip of Lake Michigan, Oselka Marina offers local and visiting boaters prime access to the lake from New Buffalo harbor. Founded in 1957, the family-owned and operated marina delivers full service and amenities to southern Michigan’s avid boating community. The marina offers full-season dock rentals and some transient slips, along with a ship’s store, fuel dock, winter storage and service. The nearly 1,000 floating slips include power, water, dock box, free internet and access to a host of fun amenities. “Oselka’s floating slips are always at water level for easy boarding,” explains Jim Oselka. “We have the personal touch of a family-owned business that has served the area for almost 70 years.” Oselka’s also offers a wide array of boat rental options for visitors, including captained and drive-yourself options, jet ski rentals, watersports excursions and yacht and boat cruises. Carefree Boat Club operates out of the marina.
Located in the charming beach town of New Buffalo, Michigan, Oselka’s offers easy access to the lake without the need to traverse a river or go under a bridge. “The harbor is the lifeblood of the New Buffalo area,” explains Oselka. “Generations of families have visited New Buffalo to go boating and enjoy the majestic waters of Lake Michigan.” Head out on foot from the marina to explore New Buffalo and its incredible restaurants, shopping and beautiful public beach, all within view of Lake Michigan. And when you’re not on the water or soaking up the sun poolside at the marina, a variety of nearby wineries deliver a different Pure Michigan experience. The marina offers electric bike and golf cart rentals to make it easy to explore New Buffalo and the surrounding area. Put southern Lake Michigan on your summer bucket list of places to cruise, and stop at Oselka’s for the full-service experience.
CALL: (616) 935-1150 EXPLORE: SANDIGENTRY.COM VISIT: REMAX LAKESHORE, 133 WASHINGTON, GRAND HAVEN
SP LA RI KENG
18635 N FRUITPORT RD • Over 400 ft of Spring Lake water frontage. Built in 1929, this piece of history offers crown molding, arched entries, 9 fireplaces, and a grand staircase. An extensive addition and reno adds up to 12,500 sq ft.
SP LA RI KENG
N SH OR O TO RE N S
16500 HAVEN WOODS CT • Stunning, beautifully-crafted newer construction home sits near Lake Michigan on over 2 acres, with 7 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and over 3,400 sq ft of thoughtfully-designed living space.
810 S HARBOR DR #21 • Enjoy stunning panoramic channel views in this updated 2-level condo. Over 2,000 sq ft of living space, 2 ensuite bedrooms, additional bedroom and full bath, plus potential 4th bedroom in charming loft room.
760 BRIDGEVIEW BAY DR • On Mona Lake, this 4,000 sq ft home offers direct water access to Lake Michigan. Panoramic water views and spectacular sunsets from nearly every room of this 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath beauty. M AR N E
18215 SPINDLE DR • Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Michigan, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home blends comfort and breathtaking natural beauty, with private frontage and over 3,000 sq ft of well-designed living space.
SP LA RI KENG
16076 HIGHLAND DR • Lakeside living at its finest in this custom-built DeHaan home nestled on Spring Lake, boasting 115 feet of prime waterfrontage with incredible views and amenities.
W O E LI ST VE
2806 N LAKESHORE DR • Live the dream in this renovated 4-bedroom, 3-bath home steps from Lake Michigan. Perfectly located north of Silver Lake, this retreat pairs breathtaking views with modern updates and relaxed elegance.
SP L A RI KENG
G H RA AV N EN D
W O E LI ST VE
8985 LAKESHORE DR • Nestled in the trees just off the Lake Michigan shoreline, this peaceful, light-filled custom home with deeded 15’ of beach use. Stunning open-concept layout with 3-bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. SP LA RI KENG
600 WASHINGTON AVENUE • One-of-a-kind Grand Haven Historic Landmark. Completely renovated into a stunning 8,000 sq ft home, carefully designed while keeping the original character. M EA RS
G H RA AV N EN D
REAL ESTATE. REAL RESULTS.
17083 SPAHR ST • This Smiths Bayou gem offers 90 ft of frontage with private 36-foot boat slip. Inside, this thoughtfully designed home features nearly 1,600 sq ft of finished living space, including 3 bedrooms and 2 updated bathrooms.
16905 HIGHLAND AVE • Spectacular Smith’s Bayou views and over 1,800 sq ft of thoughtfully-designed space. Ideally located near vibrant Spring Lake and Grand Haven, this home offers the perfect blend of convenience and peaceful privacy.
1558 LINCOLN ST • Stunning estate sits on 9.39 private acres with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and 4,832 sq ft of living space. Soaring ceilings, rich custom woodwork, and expansive windows and skylights fill this home with natural light.
EW O N SH E AT TH BO 4 AT L -2 S T' 21 U N st E O I ugu S E AG A IC
CH
CHRIS - CR AF T HUGE INCENTIVE
2025 CHRIS-CRAFT CALYPSO 32
2023 CHRIS-CRAFT CALYPSO 24
HUGE INCENTIVE
2024 CHRIS-CRAFT 31 LAUNCH GT
BENETE AU
2026 BENETEAU ANTARES 12
2025 BENETEAU ANTARES 9
2025 BENETEAU GT 32
NIMBUS DEMO PRICING
2024 NIMBUS C11
2025 NIMBUS W11
2024 NIMBUS T11
MONTERE Y
2025 MONTEREY ELITE 30
2025 MONTEREY ELITE 27
2025 MONTEREY 278SS BOWRIDER
PUR SUI T HUGE INCENTIVE
2024 PURSUIT 405 OFFSHORE
2025 PURSUIT DC 306
2025 PURSUIT 248 SPORT
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SPECIAL PRICING ON ALL REMAINING 2024 MODELS
Choose Your Summer Adventure Call us today to make your summer dreams come true.
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PUSH THE EASY BUTTON: LET US SELL YOUR BOAT
Take advantage of this HOT boat market and still enjoy your summer! Let our experienced Great Lakes sales team take care of the details: We will not only advise and direct the sale of your current boat, we will work tirelessly to find your next one.
MARK
CHRIS
BILL
WISCONSIN: 920-743-6526 • Mark Felhofer: 920-495-5567 or mjf@baymarine.net • Chris DePrey: 920-366-4320 or chrismd@baymarine.net • Bill Carlson: 906-202-0014 or bcarlson@baymarine.net
MATT
RON
GENTRE
ILLINOIS: 847-336-2628 • Matt Felhofer: 920-495-7125 or mpf@baymarine.net • Ron Durchin: 847-980-4975 or rdurchin@baymarine.net • Gentre Vartan: 312-656-4470 or gvartan@baymarine.net
WWW.BAYMARINE.NET
BRIAN
DEREK
TYLER
MICHIGAN: 616-604-0234 • Brian Gill: 616-604-0234 or briang@baymarine.net • Derek Thompson: 616-604-0234 or derekt@baymarine.net • Tyler Palazzolo: 616-604-0234 or tpalazzolo@baymarine.net
NORM
WILL
SKY
OHIO: 216-644-9366 • Norm Baur: 216-644-9366 or nbaur@baymarine.net • Will Kruger: 330-606-7593 or wkruger@baymarine.net • Sky Mielke: 419-656-4882 or smielke@baymarine.net
SALES@BAYMARINE.NET
* Not all brands sold at all locations
New & Used Inventory 62 59 58 56 54 54 53 53 52 52 52 50 50 48 48 46 46 45 45 44 44 44 43 43 42 41 40 40 39 38 38 38 38 38 37 37 37 37 37 36 36 36 35 35 35 35 34
2005 Neptunus 62 Flybridge...........................$729,999 2004 Marquis 59 Motor Yacht.........................$699,000 2004 Grand Banks 58 Eastbay FB.............. $1,675,000 2002 Sea Ray 560 Sedan Bridge.....................$474000 2023 Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht Platinum . $1,890,000 2021 Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht ................... $1,745,000 2020 Tiara Yachts 53 Coupe........................ $1,599,000 1991 Florida Bay Coasters 53 Trawler..........$299,999 2020 Riviera 525 SUV ................................... $1,495,000 2016 Riviera 525 SUV ................................... $1,099,000 2009 Sabre 52 Express.....................................$885,000 1993 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer .........................$139,900 1992 Sea Ray Sundancer .................................$129,000 2015 Sabre 48 Salon Express .........................$839,998 2000 Ocean Yachts 48 Super Sport...............$299,900 2025 Riviera 465 SUV ................................... $1,750,000 2024 Riviera 4600 SY .................................... $1,388,000 2025 Sabre 45 Salon Express ...................................Call 2020 Fairline 45/43 Targa ................................$799,000 2019 Kadey-Krogen 44AE............................ $1,139,000 2000 Cruisers Yachts 4450 Express MY........$219,000 1993 Carver 440 Aft Cabin Motor Yacht.......$139,000 2025 Sabre 43 Salon Express ...................................Call 2008 Tiara Yachts 4300 Sovran ......................$349,000 1990 Jersey Dawn 42 ........................................$134,900 2005 Sea Ray 390 Sundancer .........................$199,900 2005 Formula 400 SS........................................$139,900 1999 Ocean Yachts Express.............................$175,000 2023 Yellowfin 39 Offshore.............................$659,000 2020 Regal 38 Grand Coupe ...........................$515,000 2020 Regal 38 Grande Coupe .........................$539,000 2012 Cruisers Yachts 380 Express.................$249,500 2004 Meridian 381 Sedan ................................$119,900 1995 Sea Ray 380 Sun Sport ............................$64,900 2025 Front Runner 37 Catamaran ...........................Call 2024 Edgewater 370CC..............................................Call 2023 Edgewater 370CC....................................$575,000 2017 Formula 37 PC..........................................$334,999 2005 Intrepid 377 Walkaround.......................$199,900 2024 Yellowfin 36 Center Console.................$549,000 2008 Cruisers Yachts 360 Express.................$159,000 1989 Cruisers Yachts 3670 Esprit ....................$24,900 2015 Sea Ray 350 Sundancer .........................$179,900 2006 Regal 3560 Commodore ........................$109,900 2000 Cruisers Yachts 3575 Express.................$69,900 1970 Chris-Craft Commander fly bridge.......$849,00 2025 Edgewater 340CC..............................................Call
34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 32 32 32 31 31 30 30 30 30 30 30 29 28 28 28 28 27 27 27 27 27
2024 Edgewater 340CC..............................................Call 2024 Yellowfin 34...............................................$399,000 2005 Cruisers Yachts 340 Express.................$115,000 2003 Cruisers Yachts 3470 Express.................$89,000 2003 Sea Ray 340 Sundancer .........................$119,999 2000 Sea Ray 340 Sundancer ...........................$55,000 1999 Sea Ray 340 Sundancer ...........................$68,900 1996 Bayliner 3488 Avanti ................................$27,900 1994 Silverton 34 Express.................................$19,999 2025 Crevalle 33 CTF........................................$399,999 2023 Regal 33 Express .....................................$305,000 2022 Crevalle 33 CSF........................................$259,995 2019 Regal 33 Express .....................................$285,000 2016 Boston Whaler 330 Outrage.................$224,000 2009 Grady-White Canyon 336 ......................$189,900 1998 Rinker 33 Fiesta Vee .................................$52,000 1987 Cruisers 3370 Esprit..................................$13,900 2024 Pursuit DC 326 Dual Console ...............$435,000 2014 Chris-Craft Launch 32 ............................$129,995 2004 Sea Ray 320 Sundancer ...........................$89,900 2010 Mainship Pilot 31.....................................$149,500 2000 Sea Ray 310 Sundancer ...........................$54,900 2020 Cobalt 30SC ..............................................$179,995 2017 Chaparral 307 SSX ..................................$169,900 2017 Cobalt R30.................................................$169,000 2013 Sea Ray 300 SLX........................................$88,995 2005 Rinker Fiesta Vee 300 ...............................$54,900 2001 Pursuit 3000 Express................................$71,900 2022 Jeanneau NC Sport 895..........................$195,995 2023 Edgewater 285CC....................................$269,995 2020 Crownline 280 XSS....................................$99,995 2003 Powerquest 280 SC...................................$35,000 1999 Sea Ray Thresher.......................................$67,500 2024 Formula 270 Bowrider......................................Call 2023 Sailfish 276 DC.........................................$197,829 2021 Grady-White Canyon 271 ......................$219,995 2018 Formula 270 Bowrider..............................$99,000 2002 Boston Whaler 27 Vigilant....................$109,000
26 2025 Crevalle 26 HBW ...............................................Call 26 2025 Crevalle 26 HCO.................................................Call 26 2025 Edgewater 262 CX.............................................Call 26 2025 Edgewater 262CC..............................................Call 26 2024 Crevalle 26 HCO.......................................$199,995 26 2023 Crevalle 26 HCO.......................................$179,995 26 2023 Crevalle 26 HCO.......................................$159,995 26 2022 Edgewater 262 CX...................................$199,995 26 2020 Sea Fox 266 Commander.........................$89,900 26 2019 Edgewater 262 CX...................................$144,999 26 2004 Four Winns 268 Vista ...............................$43,900 25 2023 Cobalt R6 Outboard................................$138,888 25 2020 Stanley Boats 25 Hardtop Cruiser ......$149,000 25 2018 Regal Commodore 258.............................$76,900 25 1987 Sport-Craft 250 Offshore ........................$11,500 24 2026 Crevalle 24 HCO.................................................Call 24 2026 Edgewater 248 CX.............................................Call 24 2023 Edgewater 248 CX...................................$144,995 24 2023 Hurricane SunDeck 2400 OB ..................$62,499 24 2023 Sailfish 241 CC .........................................$122,837 24 2022 Bennington LX 24 Swingback.................$77,995 24 2017 Harris 240 Cruiser .....................................$49,900 24 2006 MasterCraft X-45.......................................$44,900 24 1989 Bayliner 2455 Ciera Sunbridge ..............$12,900 23 2024 Nautique Super Air Nautique S23.................Call 23 2022 Nautique Super Air Nautique G23.......$159,995 23 2018 Nautique Super Air Nautique 230 .........$79,999 22 2022 Regal Fasdeck.............................................$74,900 22 2021 Axis T22 .......................................................$79,900 22 1971 Aquasport 222............................................$49,995 21 2018 Sea Ray SPX 210........................................$35,595 21 2002 Rinker 212 Captiva Bowrider.................... $9,900 21 1965 Century Coronado......................................$39,900 20 2025 Nautique Ski 200................................................Call 20 2025 Nautique Super Air Nautique GS20..............Call 20 2023 Edgewater 208CC......................................$68,500 20 2017 Bayliner VR5 Bowrider.............................$29,900 20 1996 Pro-Line Stalker.........................................$14,900 18 2023 Edgewater 188CC..............................................Call 18 2021 Edgewater 188 CC.....................................$57,900 18 2020 Skeeter Solera 189....................................$67,900 17 2005 Glastron 175SX ..........................................$11,500 16 2022 Qwest Edge 816 CTR................................$15,995 11 2019 Walker Bay Generation 11 LTE.................$17,998 11 2022 Achilles HB-335 AX..................................... $5,995 10 2007 Caribe c-10X.................................................. $4,500 9.5 2024 AB Inflatables ABJET 290 .......................$33,900
For a complete list of available boats, visit www.baymarine.net WISCONSIN STURGEON BAY 920-743-6526
ILLINOIS WAUKEGAN 847-336-2628
FLORIDA FORT MYERS 239-295-4332
MICHIGAN SPRING LAKE 616-604-0234
OHIO SANDUSKY 219-508-5627
WELDCRAFT 240 OCEAN KING
RANGER TUGS R-25
IRON BOATS 827 T-TOP
RANGER TUGS R-29 COMMAND BRIDGE
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WELDCRAFT 210 REVOLUTION WALLEYE EDITION
BROKERAGE BOATS 22’ 22’ 24’ 24’ 25’ 25’ 25’ 27’ 27’ 28’ 29’
2020 Weldcraft 220 Maverick DV ............................................................... $99,000 2022 Weldcraft 220 Ocean King & Trailer.................................................... $99,999 2022 Zodiac Medline 7.5 NEO w/ custom trailer .......................................... $99,900 2021 Zodiac Medline 7.5 NEO w/ custom trailer .......................................... $94,999 2016 Zodiac NZO 760 NEO ........................................................................ $74,900 2023 Ranger Tugs R25 Luxury Edition w/ custom trailerr............................ $199,000 2005 Boston Whaler 235 Conquest............................................................. $42,900 2023 Ranger Tugs R27 Luxury Edition w/ custom trailerr............................ $239,000 2024 Ranger Tugs R27 Luxury Edition....................................................... $239,999 2023 Weldcraft 280 Cuddy King T250XCBs w/ custom trailer..................... $229,999 2022 Ranger Tugs R-29 Sedan Luxury Edition ........................................... $299,999
30’ 30’ 31’ 33’ 33’ 36’ 38’ 44’ 44’ 55’ 60’
1991 Carver Santego 3067 ........................................................................ $23,900 1987 S2 9.2A............................................................................................ $19,900 2018 Ranger Tugs R-31 Command Bridge Luxury Edition........................... $295,000 1997 Formula 330 Sun Sport ..................................................................... $29,999 1999 Sea Ray 330 Sundancer .................................................................... $49,000 1988 Gozzard 36 ....................................................................................... $41,900 2003 Hunter 386 ....................................................................................... $95,000 1994 Carver 440 Aft Cabin Motoryacht ..................................................... $139,900 2000 Cruisers 4450 Express Motor Yacht.................................................. $199,999 2001 Hatteras 55 Convertible ................................................................... $699,900 2000 Hatteras 60 Convertible ................................................................... $715,000
FIND A COMPLETE LIST OF INVENTORY INCLUDING NEW, USED AND BROKERAGE BOATS AT WWW.REEDYACHTSALES.COM
GRAND HAVEN, MI • Brent Reed 616-402-0180 • Bob Lunt 616-843-1225 LASALLE, MI • Chuck Hutchins 734-497-3721 • Matthew Bolt 734-735-1948 RACINE, WI • Mark Derenne 414-651-3100
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36' 2022 BENETEAU ANTARES 11 FLY Excellent opportunity, 100% freshwater, well-maintained. Popular Beneteau model. Options include: Joystick w/ autopilot, Panda generator, AC, Garmin elect. incl. radar, VHF, plotter. Full galley, 2 staterooms, head w/ separate shower. Asking: $389,000. Contact Joe today 414-793-0195 or joe@centerpointe service.com. CNT
2019 KADEY-KROGEN 44AE Perfect for the Great Loop: Truly a functional, proper, turn-key ready-to-cruise bluewater trawler. John Deere 4045AFM85 engine 160hp, complete Garmin electronics, Yacht Controller handheld docking system, 9kw Northern Lights generator Hydraulic package: bow & stern thrusters, stabilizers, windlass. Two cabins, 1 head. Contact Matt Felhofer @ 920-495-7125 or mpf@baymarine.net. BAY
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2024 RANGER TUGS R-27 LUXURY EDITION, 100% Freshwater, low hours. Yamaha tiller kicker with tie bar to the main engine, first-time epoxy barrier coating and bottom paint. Extended Yamaha warranty on both engines until 2030. Asking $239,999. Call Bob Lunt @ 616-843-1225. RYS
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2000 OCEAN YACHTS 48 SUPER SPORT FLY BRIDGE Beautiful salon with pull-out sofa, fully equipped galley, three staterooms, two heads. Two Caterpillar diesel engines deliver impressive speed and handling. Past and current maintenance records available. Asking $325,000. Contact Norm Baur: 216-644-9366 or nbaur@baymarine.net. BAY
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I grew up boating on the Mississippi River. In 1966 my dad bought a 1950 Chris-Craft Riviera, which was an 18-foot boat with a Hercules straight 6 engine. I was 13 years old at the time. My Dad didn’t like being so close to the water since he couldn’t swim, so he soon upgraded to a 31-foot Chris-Craft Roamer cruiser, and I took over the Riviera. I loved that boat. For many years, most of my summers were spent on it exploring the Mississippi River. I finally sold the Riviera in 1988. I regretted that decision, and years passed before I saw this 1951 Chris-Craft Riviera at the Classic Wood Boat Show in Sister Bay, Wisconsin. It looked just like my old 1950 Riviera, except it was a 16-foot model, rather than the 18-foot original. But I quickly fell in love with it for the memories it brought back. I bought it from a man who found the boat in Connecticut and brought it back to Brussels, Wisconsin to restore it. He also fiberglassed the bottom, so it didn’t need to be soaked for hours prior to using it each season. That was a big selling point for me. The senior owner of Yacht Works Marina in Sister Bay told me my boat is in pristine condition, and the restoration that was completed would cost $100,000 if done today. The engine is not the original 60 hp model, as it was missing when my boat was found, and it now has a 205 hp Chevy V6. It sounds very throaty when it’s running, just like most old wood classics should. Since its restoration, the boat has been stored indoors when it isn’t in the water being enjoyed. It had brought me a lot of joy, but the time has come to sell it and let another Chris-Craft Riviera lover build their own memories on her. — Bob Byrum, Davenport, IA
BOB BYRUM
1951 Chris-Craft Riviera.
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M sing at! CO ui o G. cr t b se IN ext nex ow AT n r Br BO our you D y g N ng in LA nni buy KE pla or LA re re f o tu be ven ad
Read Lakeland’s New Web Series!
Join along as Karly and Evan Nietzel, high school sweethearts originally from Iowa, cruise the Great Loop! We are tracking them in real-time on our website. Read an excerpt from a recent post below.
Up the Hudson River
O
ver the last week we made it up the Hudson River to Waterford, New York, but not without a few headaches… of course! In our last post we left you at our anchorage in Haverstraw, and this week we had a goal to make it to the entrance of the Erie Canal. Why? Because my grandpa would be visiting in his RV to take in all the Erie Canal history alongside us. The only issue? We still hadn’t received word if the canal was open yet. From Haverstraw we made our way up to the village of Cornwall-on-Hudson where we stayed at the Cornwall Yacht Club. The members were extremely helpful and beyond welcoming during our stay. Ripley, however, got herself in a little accident Tuesday night where she split her ear open. After a full night of constant bleeding, we realized she would require a vet visit for sutures to close the wound. Aside from it being an all-day affair at the emergency vet where we reluctantly had to put her under anesthesia, she came out looking better than before with plenty of pain meds to get her through the week. Because our Wednesday cruising plans were shot, Thursday was a full 8-hour day moving north to Catskill, New York, where we dropped the hook for the night. If Ripley’s incident wasn’t enough for the week, we noticed a large chunk was missing from our dinghy motor propeller and needed immediate attention. Luckily Evan could order one from Amazon, but now it’s on our list of spare parts to keep on hand. Thank goodness there was an ice cream shack not far from our anchorage to end the day. Finally on Friday we rallied for a second 8-hour day up to Waterford, New York which is the intersection where you have to decide if you’ll take the Champlain
Canal or the Erie Canal up to Canada. As luck would have it, we received word Friday morning that the Erie Canal was officially open after weeks of flooding and repairs. We had always hoped that we would be able to take the Erie Canal, as it’s a shorter distance to Canada compared to the Champlain route, and this year is the canal’s 200th anniversary. Luck was in our favor yet again when we pulled up to the free wall in Waterford with only one spot left where we fit right in. We spent the weekend recharging after a long week, spending time with my grandparents, and learning more about the Erie Canal. Right next to lock E-2 sits the original Erie Canal which was special to see considering they’re celebrating 200 years of the canal this year. We have the Erie Canal to thank for changing the scope of our nation’s development and we’re ecstatic to ride through such a monumental piece of history. We’re looking forward to the 22 locks ahead before we head north up the Oswego Canal. Heading into the Erie is our first time heading west on this journey! Cheers to continuing the adventure!
Follow along their journey by visiting LAKELANDBOATING.COM/CATEGORY/THE-GREAT-LOOP
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