Family Wins the 2022 YACHT Solutions’ Schaefer Yachts Summer Experience

The East family 400

 

By: Allegra Smith-Herriott

The East family with friend (second from the right) getting ready for a day on Lake Ontario.

The spring of 2022 had sprung and the excitement for another boating season was quickly approaching. Earlier in the year, YACHT Solutions and Canadian Yachting held a boating contest for one lucky winner to win a fractional membership aboard a Schaefer Yacht. Their choice was between a Schaefer V33 centre console or a crewed Schaefer 400 with monthly outings.

When the winner was drawn in April and Sheldon East and his family were contacted. They couldn’t believe their luck. It turned out this would be one of the most amazing summers on the water they would have. Canadian Yachting had a chance to speak with Sheldon East and his family about their incredible experience over the summer and this is what they had to say.

family food and friends 400“I found out about the contest when I signed up for a subscription with Canadian Yachting Magazine and filled out an online sweepstakes. We received an email notifying us that we had won, but to be honest, we weren’t sure it was real! After speaking with captain Greg Marlo, we were beside ourselves with excitement.

Family at the cockpit table with food and friends.

The first time we were invited on the Schaefer Yacht, our jaws dropped. It was absolutely beautiful! My two kids said to me, “Dad, it’s like a James Bond 007 boat!”

Sheldon East and his wife Julia have been boating since they were kids. Together, they purchased their first 1978 20-foot Grew when they were 18 years old. They now boat on their upgraded Rinker on Georgian Bay with their two girls, Jenna and Jada. This was their first-time experiencing Lake Ontario from the water.

“The balance this season between boating on Georgian Bay and Lake Ontario was wonderful. We’re all about exploring and adventures, and Greg with his wonderful seamanship made it happen.

Sheldon at the grill 400We went out on some breathtaking trips, spending Canada Day with family and friends and watching the fireworks from the yacht, enjoying the Toronto Waterfront as we gazed upon the CN Tower, spending a beautiful fall outing on the water, and exploring all the way to Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Sheldon at the grill.

On one outing, we got to take the boat to Toronto Island and tie up just in front of a beautiful bridge. We felt like stars as people in the park stared in awe at us aboard the Schaefer. We then cooked a huge dinner on the back of the boat with the built-in BBQ.”

The fractional ownership that YACHT Solutions provides is a unique way for someone to experience boating for the first time or to try out a new type of vessel. Whether you’re an experienced boat owner or a first-time boat buyer, the program is designed for everyone. Monthly outings are booked in advance, and you get a choice of day trips or overnight trips, depending on the type of boat you’ve chosen. 

sheldon and greg 400“The fractional ownership is a great way to have a new yacht without all the complications of full-time ownership. It just makes sense. You need a captain’s license to operate the Schaefer 40’, which I do not have. YACHT Solutions supplied Captain Greg Marlo as well as two other crew members, Jennifer and Gavin who all helped make this experience unforgettable. The crew were so kind and welcoming on every single trip and we’re happy to call them dear friends now.

Sheldon with Greg Marlo of YACHT Solutions getting ready to cast odd for the day.

I would highly recommend this fractional ownership to new boaters or even seasoned boaters, especially in the case of having a captain and crew supplied. You just book the yacht and show up to the dock for some adventure-packed days on the water. There are no worries about docking, paying for storage, winterizing, summerizing fees or maintenance. It’s a relaxing experience with zero stress, especially being in an environment you’re not completely knowledgeable with. I really believe that this fractional ownership puts the fun back into boating. It was such a joy to just sit back and relax and take in the views with my family sitting around me.

senset view of Toronto 400The Schaefer 400 S is our dream yacht. We are all so grateful for this incredible and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thank you for your hospitality to YACHT Solutions and Canadian Yachting and for giving us an amazing summer experience.”

returning after a day on the lake for the sunset view of Toronto. 

Below Left: Castong off for a day trip to Niagara On The Lake

Below right: Returning to Toronto OUter Habrour Marina

casting off 400 returning to the marina 400

 

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