Editor’s note: Old boat, new boat (red boat, blue boat)
Jan 11, 2023
With apologies to Dr Seuss. Against the backdrop of boat shows right ahead on the horizon and the promise that comes with them of new and exciting boats, I received a a call from a reporter at CHCH in Hamilton who wanted to talk to me about an old boat. As it turns out, someone has abandoned a Viking 28 sailboat plunk in the middle of Hamilton Harbour. Could I shed any light on what sort of boat it is and why it would end up where it is?
I attempted to provide some background on the craft, a C&C designed 28-footer built in Oakville in the 60s and 70s and commented that there’s a real problem when boats reach the end of their lives since they don’t rust away like your old Corolla does. I also pointed out that a lot of old boats create opportunities for new boaters who want to get an entry point boat. Many of these bargain hunters end up getting a few years and a lot of fun from their find, then go on to buy the new boat they really want.
Some of those sophomore boaters may be among the showgoers. At the show we get to see what’s shiny and new, the latest models and new ideas. That’s what we are about to see at the Toronto International Boat Show that starts on the 20th, the Vancouver Show that kicks off on Feb 1 and a parade of shows across Canada in the months following. Everyone is buzzing about finally getting to the show after two years of various lockdowns. To say boaters are delighted certainly states the obvious. It’s about time!
John Morris
Online Editor
Canadian Yachting Magazine
CYonboard@kerrwil.com
