Take a moment, please
Nov 11, 2021
FLIB packs them in
The bumper sticker slogan “Have you hugged your boat today” has gone from meme to top of mind thought as we put the covers on and hunker down for the winter. After a second season of (nasty word deleted) it’s dramatically obvious how important that boat really is. It’s no secret to most of us that your boat defines you to your friends and to your own identity.
This summer, although cruising destinations were off limits and guests were limited and masked, we found ourselves more than ever aboard the boat. You likely had the same experience because, sadly, there were very few options. As a result, we became very excited about sitting in the cockpit, going out for the occasional trip to nowhere and spending a weekend aboard at our own dock. The little things became big things and the boat was even more important than ever.
As we have reported all summer long, new boaters are flocking onboard and boat sales have been jumping even the supply of boats has been choked by limited production accompanying that high demand.
CY magazine’s editor Andy Adams braved the flying scenario last week to take the pulse at FLIB, the Fort Lauderdale show, which was on mostly as normal. (Andy’s packed schedule will end up in our February issue so we all get to share.) While the supply chain is affecting boat builders, as it is lots of other industries, there are some pretty exciting new models coming from every possible source. FLIB is all power, but upcoming sail shows will likely bear the same fruit.
It’s pretty clear that in the current situation boats are IT and you get a hearty congratulations for being in the right sport at the right time. Boating has re-confirmed its wonderfulness (is that a word?) so take a moment to thank your boat for bringing your crew through this sane. It’s only fair.
John Morris
Online Editor
Canadian Yachting Magazine
CYonboard@kerrwil.com
