Haulout, Thanksgiving and the Inconvenience Store
October 8, 2026
Abruptly, it’s autumn. It’s been a terrific boat season, but with little warning it’s time for the whole lay-up ritual: drain the tanks, put on the cover, tuck it in for the winter.
It’s no coincidence that the end of the boating season in Canada coincides with Thanksgiving. What is there more delightful for us to be thankful for? You may not note it as the time but as you ready the cradle for the off season, it’s a perfect time to review and relish the outings, cruises, drinks in the cockpit with friends. Perhaps racing, maybe fishing with grandkids.
Although I always slightly lament the end of the summer, we have learned to celebrate our four-season climate. Plus, you get the thrill of cleaning the bottom of the hull then getting ready to re-paint it in the spring ass those seasons indefatigably change.
On Tuesday’s CBC news I saw a group on the Toronto waterfront saying goodbye to The Inconvenience Store, a floating art piece that’s been the focus of attention in the Harbour all summer. The “Store” is a full-scale replica of a neighborhood corner store floating 50 feet offshore, designed by artists Trevor Wheatley and Cosmo Dean in collaboration with design studio Puncture, and commissioned by Waterfront Toronto as part of its temporary floating public art program. (Who knew there was such a thing?)
The onshore crowd appeared to be mourning its closing as marking the coming of Autumn. Why exactly they created it and what it represents are subjective, I guess. That’s art for you. Boats and water have impact.
Like on the Thanksgiving holiday, I find the season wrap-up creates a welcome warmth among the boat community. People help each other with lines and tarps, say thanks a lot and generally reflect a mellow, appreciative mood. Nice!
John Morris, Online Editor
