For the Love of Vintage and Classic Boats

By Mike Gridley

Photos By Patrice Anderson

In several regions of Canada, the history of recreational boating dates back more than 125 years. Fortunately, examples of these boats are still with us and celebrated by various clubs and organizations, dedicated to the preservation of these antique and vintage vessels and motors.

Like the collector car world, vintage and classic boating embraces all watercraft and motors from the late 1800s to boats only 25 years old. Over the years the hobby has expanded, with newer enthusiasts who are too young to remember the glory days of the wooded boats engaging with classic fibreglass models, which began displacing wooded boats in the 1950s.

Vintage boat owners are proud of the boats and motors they collect. Many see themselves as custodians, preserving these models for future generations. Their pride and passion is evident through their participation in organizations and clubs that promote the hobby to the public through multiple events and shows.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of this article FREE in the digital version of Canadian Boating May 2025

Related Articles

Video Gallery

Starcraft SV 16 OB

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.

Read More

Destinations

The Erie Canal – An Extraordinary Waterway

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.”

Read More

Lifestyle