This Saturday on Global TV, Steve continues the epic journey on the “pocket cruiser” from Toronto to New York via Montreal. But first, a detour to Oka to install a Canadian-made stern thruster and – with the help of a Quebec-based company – has a custom-made swim platform extension installed before tackling the historic Lachine Canal and heading into Lake Champlain – and the two dozen locks between Montreal and NYC.
May 22, 2025 Pat’s distinguished career in sailing spanned decades. He became an International Judge in 1990 and previously served as an International Umpire. Since 1981, he was a judge for both US Sailing and Sail Canada. Pat contributed his expertise at seven Olympic and Paralympic Games—four times as a coach and three as a…
May 22, 2025 Despite everything, I am relentlessly committed to taking a positive viewpoint on the shenanigans currently raining on our parade. The May Two-Four Long Weekend was the universal start of the boating season in these parts. The unprecedented overuse of the word ‘unprecedented’ nonetheless describes our upcoming boating season, thanks to the bizarre…
Yikes – remove any corrosion in electrical connections May 22, 2025 For those who have recently uncovered, cleaned off and launched their boats for the season, it can be hard to get past the excitement of being back on the water. But pause to consider the traumatic experience that your boat has recently been through….
May 22, 2025 by Mathew Channer This year marks the Rideau Canal’s 194th season and it’s 100th anniversary as a National Historic Site of Canada. The Rideau opened for the 2025 boating season on Friday May 16 and will remain open until Thanksgiving weekend. The Rideau Canal was built between 1826 and 1832 and was…
May 22, 2025 Explore the latest in watercraft right at the docks of beautiful Port lore the latest in watercraft right at the docks of beautiful Port of Orillia! With top dealers, family fun, and summer vibes — it’s a must-do weekend on the water. This Father’s Day, Go Big — Buy Dad a Boat!…
May 22, 2025 This week’s Photo of the Week comes from Douglas Bell in Victoria who sent along a remarkable shot of an encounter on the start line. Last weekend’s RVicYC Spring Dinghy Regatta had a pod of Orcas suddenly cruise through the start line (the wrong way!). Start line was unoccupied as the fleet…
By Craig Ritchie
Photos by Starcraft Marine
Building great boats has always come down to a mix of art and science, and that’s particularly true when it comes to meeting the biggest challenge of all—creating an appealing yet affordable family runabout. Buyers want a boat that is affordable but not stripped to the bare bones.
Enter Starcraft and its delightful SV 16 OB, an all-new-for-2025 family deck boat that elegantly balances comfort, amenities and affordability.
By Mark Stevens
Photos by Sharon Matthews-Stevens
As I shift our chartered canal boat into neutral, I’m soothed by the soundtrack of bird calls, the occasional plaintive horn of a distant train and the hum of our engine.
I reach for the VHF to radio the lockmaster in charge of Erie Canal’s Lock 32 dead ahead. Our boat spins gently in the current like a maple key in a mud puddle.
“This is Onondaga,” I say. “Headed westbound and requesting passage.”
