February 7, 2014
Fractional Yachting Opportunity in Toronto
At the Toronto Boat Show I met Howie Colt, owner of Toronto-based Gone Sailing Adventures-Yacht Time (GSA). Howie is a long-time charter captain and local innovator in “fractional yachting”, allowing boaters to enjoy big, beautiful craft without the high cost of ownership.
February 7, 2014
Sails Away! Countdown for the 34th Annual St.Maarten Heineken Regatta
Three Days of Competition, Concerts, Events and Island Fun. Sailors and enthusiasts: get ready for some yacht racing and fun in the sun during the 34th Annual St. Maarten Heineken Regatta taking place March 6-9, 2014, with musical performers LMFAO, of “Party Rock” fame, headlining the event.
February 7, 2014
Strong Attendance, Sales Highlight Vancouver Boat Show
With steady attendance, motivated shoppers, and strong boat and retail sales, the 2014 Vancouver International Boat Show appeared to forecast a positive year ahead for the West Coast recreational boating industry. This year, VIBS moved to new dates – January 22-26 ¬– from its traditional slot in early February, which conflicted with BC’s new Family Day long weekend. While total attendance at the indoor and floating venues was
February 7, 2014
Offshore Sailing School founders receive Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s National Chairman’s Citation
Offshore Sailing School founders and owners Steve and Doris Colgate, were recently presented with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s National Chairman’s Citation at the annual Fantasy Sail Celebration held at South Seas Island Resort in Florida.
February 6, 2014
Chris-Craft Unveils Launch 36 at Miami Boat Show 2014
Chris-Craft invited us to the unveiling of the all new Launch 36 at a press conference at the Miami International Boat Show at 2:00 pm on Thursday, February 13th. The Launch 36 was not only the newest and largest addition to the Launch line-up for Chris-Craft, but Chairman Stephen Julius and President Steve Heese spoke to how this boat is a new concept for the brand.
February 6, 2014
Northwest Boat Travel Guide Updated for 2015
One of the Pacific Northwest’s popular annual port-to-port guides, Northwest Boat Travel is now in its 36th year. The 2014 edition is freshly updated and expanded to include resources such as Lat/Long coordinates for many marinas and mooring facilities.
February 5, 2014
Revised Safety Regs Open Swiftsure Lightship Race to Smaller Boats
Registration is now open for the 71st running of the Pacific Northwest’s major annual sailing event, the Swiftsure International Yacht Race. Sailed out of Victoria’s Inner Harbour May 24-26, Swiftsure incorporates overnight and one-day races on four separate courses in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, as well as pre- and post-race festivities in Victoria.
February 5, 2014
New Marina Opens on North Arm
The Lower Mainland’s newest marina, Milltown Marina on the North Arm of the Fraser River, has opened for business in stages over the fall and winter. Boats began occupying the Marpole marina’s 227 wet berths last fall and its new marine service centre opened in January. A 200-space dry stack facility, a centrepiece of the facility, is slated to go into operation this month, and The Hatch Restaurant is expected to open in March. Milltown Yacht Sales, an affiliate of Fraser Yacht Sales of
February 5, 2014
VIBS Exhibitor Contest Awards 50’ Moorage Slip
John Ferris of New Westminster “took home” a 50’ marina slip from this year’s Vancouver International Boat Show. The one-year lease was his prize in a draw held by exhibitor Blue Heron Marina Estates, a new condominium and marina development on the main arm of the Fraser River in East Richmond.
January 28, 2014
VIBS Upbeat With Strong Attendance And Sales In New Time Slot
With steady attendance, motivated shoppers, reports of strong boat and retail sales plus unseasonably sunny weather to keep everyone smiling, the 2014 Vancouver International Boat Show apparently marked another positive milestone for the West Coast boating market.
January 21, 2014
Crossing the Line – On the Good Ship Looney
Wendy Loat discovered sailing via her ski club and went on to crew for her then boyfriend in the 1981 Thunderbird Worlds. When I first met Wendy, she was helping that bf – a knowledgeable instructor and fleet coach – to demonstrate how flat sail cloth could be formed into curves at a racing clinic (we’ll skip the fine details, if you don’t mind.)
January 20, 2014
Dehler 38 is Named European Boat of the Year in the Performance Cruiser Category
The new Dehler 38 has won one of the most coveted international prizes in the water sports sector – the title of “European Boat of the Year”. A total of five candidates competed for the title this year in the Performance Cruiser category, where a jury of experts from the major European sailing magazine decides who will win the race.
January 17, 2014
Take the Boating Ontario Survey to Improve Boating in Ontario
The Boating Ontario Association asks you to take just 20 minutes to fill in their survey of your experiences and wishes for Ontario’s locks, canals and waterways to improve boating in Ontario.You could win one of 3 prizes. First prize is a 2014 Season Pass for locking and boating on the canals while the second and third prizes are two tickets to a Toronto Leafs / Ottawa Senators hockey game.
January 13, 2014
Canadian Yachting Magazine at the 2014 Toronto International Boat Show
Good crowds and an upbeat attitude characterized the first few days of the 2014 Toronto International Boat Show and the Canadian Yachting magazine booth has been a busy place! Dealers say that serious buyers were out and on opening day, the parking lots were close to full just two hours after opening. Crowds were steady all day.Again, Canadian Yachting magazine set up our “CYNN” boat show news network video studio and we
January 13, 2014
Tell Tale Productions Presents the Documentary ‘Lucky to Be Alive’
Atlantic Canada has a rich maritime history and tragedy at sea has always been part of that legacy. Communities all around the Maritimes remember those who perished on the water. But they also celebrate the remarkable people who have come face to face with the ocean at its worst and – against all odds – managed to survive.Lucky to be Alive is a half hour documentary that shares amazing stories from people who narrowly escaped death at sea and the rescuers who risk their lives to save others. These courageous individuals give insight into what it’s
January 10, 2014
Cruisers’ 328 Sport Series Bow Rider Crowned 2013’s Boat of the Year
Boating Magazine has bestowed the 328 Sport Series with its coveted Boat of the Year award for 2013. Editor’s named the vessel “Boat of the Year” after reviewing performance data and commentary from the magazine’s Tech Team. In all, the group assessed approximately 100 vessels between 30 and 70 feet. Each test considers a boat’s construction, design, styling, performance, and adherence to the standards set by the American Boat and Yacht Council. Boats in contention must also meet the demands of the mission for boats in their category. The 328 SS was chosen because
January 3, 2014
New Jet Boat Models From Rec Boat Holdings, LLC
Rec Boat Holdings has rolled out two additional jet models for their Glastron and Scarab brands. The Glastron GT207 and the Scarab 215 follow after the introduction of their smaller sister models, GT187 and Scarab 195, respectively. The company announced an aggressive launch plan last May for both brands and has not disappointed. The introductory models were in production within four months and now the expansion to each brand offering comes only eight months after announcing the entry into jet propulsion models. All are
January 3, 2014
Special Features of the 2014 Toronto International Boat Show
There is always something for everyone at the Toronto Boat Show and 2014 proves to be no exception. Download the free Digital Toronto Boat Show Guide and learn what’s new this year. For families, couples, old boat enthusiasts, water sport aficianados, paddlers and those who are new to boating, the Toronto International Boat Show has everything.
January 3, 2014
North Pacific Yachts Launches New 49 Pilothouse
North Pacific Yachts of Delta BC will have the first example of its new 49′ Pilothouse on display on the Lake Union docks at the Seattle Boat Show January 24-February 2. The NP49 is a new design that incorporates the principles and features of NPY’s other successful models to provide comfortable and economical cruising. It will be finished with a hand-crafted teak interior, including teak and holly floors, granite countertops, routed cabinet trim and other fine touches. The full-beam salon provides a
January 3, 2014
Catch CY Contributors on Stage at Vancouver and Seattle
Several Canadian Yachting contributors are featured on seminar stages at the 2014 Vancouver and Seattle Boat Shows: William Kelly, co-author of Best Anchorages of the Inside Passage, Mark Bunzel, publisher of the Waggoner Cruising Guide, Amanda Spottiswoode, author of South Islander – Memoirs of a Cruising Dog, recounts “Tales, Triumphs and Tribulations of Cruising the West Coast with Dogs on Board”
January 3, 2014
Mark Your Calendar: Vancouver Boat Show January 22-26
Western Canada’s premiere boat show, the Vancouver International Boat Show, rings in 2014 with a new, earlier set of dates. From Wednesday to Sunday, January 22-26, the 52nd annual event kicks off the boating season with more than 250 exhibitors showcasing a huge selection of boats and gear. Indoors at BC Place and on the docks at Granville Island Maritime Market, show-goers will find hundreds of boats, family-friendly activities, an expanded seminar program and great deals on the latest marine products.
January 3, 2014
What’s New at The 2014 Seattle Boat Show?
There is a lot to look at and take in at the Seattle Boat Show (Indoors +Afloat) and always something new for boating enthusiasts of every persuasion. The 2014 Show will be notable for a number of new boat brands, brands returning who have been absent from the Show for a few years and more than 35 new accessories exhibitors in the East Hall and Concourse. The Seattle Boat Show is the largest show on the West Coast and the third largest in the U.S., and as such it is often the place where manufacturers choose to debut their new models. 2014 is no exception.
January 2, 2014
Modern-Day Mainship Counts on Yanmar Marine Diesels
With the promising 2013 debut of the first Marlow-Mainship 32, the future looks bright for Marlow-Hunter. This affordable yet upscale trawler is the first launch since Marlow acquired the Mainship molds and rights in 2012. It reflects a masterful fusion of Marlow prestige and iconic Mainship tradition. Dependable Yanmar diesels are the sole power choices for Marlow-Mainship models, supplied by marine industry specialist Mastry Engine Center. With Yanmar power found on many previous Mainship builds, this new launch brings the two back together again.
January 2, 2014
If You Are Thinking of Chartering in Europe You May Need an International Certificate of Competency (ICC)
As you may be aware, it is now mandatory to hold a recognised International Certificate of Competency (ICC) if you wish to charter a boat in certain European countries. It is generally required for the inland and coastal waters of Mediterranean countries. In Northern Europe and Scandinavia the ICC is generally not required, but it is strongly advised to check with any European or eastern bloc country that you wish to charter in before you leave.
January 2, 2014
Island Yacht Club – No Initiation Fees
The Island Yacht Club introduces no initiation fees for New Boating and Social Memberships. Nestled in Blockhouse Bay, one of the prettiest coves in the Toronto Islands, the IYC offers a multi-cultural club with a family oriented atmosphere where you can swim in the pool, play tennis, dine casually or elegantly, or take to the waterways by sail, powerboat or kayak. Relax in the clubhouse while enjoying spectacular sunsets framed by mature trees. Their private tender whisks you on a scenic journey, from Queen’s Quay, across the Toronto
January 2, 2014
Sunsail Celebrates 40 Years of Sensational Sailing
Flotilla adventures have always played a key part in what Sunsail offers while 40 years of constantly improving these experiences has allowed us to deliver the best there is. With 23 routes designed around making the most of customers’ time on the water, each itinerary takes you to the most incredible islands in the area. We have quite the plan for 2014 bringing together some of the worlds most coveted athletes in both marine and non-marine sports
December 19, 2013
Sealine to Launch the F380 at the Dusseldorf Boat Show
Sealine will be unveiling their new F380 flybridge motor yacht at the Dusseldorf Boat Show in January. Following on from the success of the award winning F450, this new model offers more space than any other cruiser in this size range currently on the market. With their innovative design features Sealine has maximized the use of space and light throughout whilst also providing complete flexible living areas above and below decks.
December 12, 2013
Going Viking in Poulsbo
Northwest boaters can get in touch with their inner Vikings at a new Winter Rendezvous hosted February 7-9 by hydroplane racing legend Chip Hanauer, aka The Boat Guy, and the good folks in Poulsbo WA. Aimed at encouraging boaters to get out on the water year round, the Norsk-flavoured fun includes beer, wine, whiskey and smoked salmon tastings, brewery tours, a marine swap meet, a downtown poker run, live music, a gala
December 12, 2013
Weather Batters NPY Rendezvous
West Coast owners of North Pacific Yachts enjoyed a successful rendezvous at Roche Harbor Marina September 29-October 2 despite being battered by storm-force winds and torrential rain. The weather reduced attendance somewhat, down from the 28 boats pre-registered, but several sessions were enthusiastically attended, especially one on engines hosted by Pat McCullough of Cummins Northwest.
December 12, 2013
Canadian Chris-Craft Rendezvous 2013
At the height of our fantastic summer, the Canadian Chris-Craft Rendezvous drew 18 vintage boats, including two from our neighbours to the south, to Telegraph Harbour Marina July 19-21. This year’s much-anticipated Saturday afternoon event was a blindfolded dinghy race, with two crewmembers in rowing dinghies, an oarsperson and a navigator. Each boat was equipped with a water super-soaker for navigators and a paper bag (size large) for the oarsman. The course was relayed to navigators with a final twist: a
December 12, 2013
Mobile Pumpout Serves Lower Mainland
Pumping out the holding tank after a weekend cruise is a job many of us would happily leave to someone else. A new mobile marine pump-out service enables Lower Mainland boaters to do just that.Ray Weind, who operates Mr. Pumpout with son Derek, says the company aims to provide customers with a “hands-free” service as new sewage discharge regs mandate the use of holding tanks and forbid dumping of raw sewage within three miles of shorelines.
December 12, 2013
McNeill Fuel Dock Now North Island Marina
Port McNeill Fuel Dock has a new name – North Island Marina – that reflects its growth from a fuel stop into a full-service marina and a major port of call for cruisers in the Broughton Islands and Queen Charlotte Strait or en route to BC’s north coast.“We are now much more than just a fuel dock. We offer 2,100 feet of transient moorage for boats from 28’ to 285’, in-berth refueling and full concierge services for our yacht customers,” says general manager Steve Jackman. “We found many of our customers want more than just moorage. We can help with provisioning, dinner
December 12, 2013
West Bay Sonship Contracts New Custom Sky Lounge 72′ Motor Yacht
West Bay SonShip, established forty-six years ago, has delivered more than 250 luxury motor yachts ranging in size from 45’ to 110’, but never have they been more excited to introduce and build this stunning new custom 72’ sky lounge vessel.The exterior design and styling is an easy and instinctive evolution from the incredibly successful 58’ pilot house, nearly one hundred built and continuing to represent West Bay by maintaining a strong resell value in the brokerage market today.
December 12, 2013
Bluewater Cruising Association Proudly Presents Japan: Cruising Heaven or Hell
January 21, 2014 BCA member Kirk Patterson, half through his attempt to be the first foreigner to circumnavigate the entire Japanese archipelago, will discuss the pleasures and pitfalls of cruising in Japan. He will introduce some of destinations and Japanese cruising customs. Kirk will highlight the depth and breadth of Japanese history and culture, and touch relationship with the sea.
December 12, 2013
Sail Canada 2014 49er Boat Grant Program
With the aim of bringing younger sailors into the Canadian 49er class, Pitch Pole Skiff Products (aka 49er.ca) will be providing charter boats to young sailors interested in sailing the Olympic class 49erFX skiff. The charter boats will be a complete 49erFX with dolly, a carbon mast and ready to race for a period of one year. This is a perfect opportunity for young Laser, C420 or 29er sailors, both male and female, looking to make the jump into the exciting 49er or 49erFX class!
December 10, 2013
Pacific Yacht Conference Comes to Vancouver Next May
With its spectacular cruising grounds visited by relatively few superyachts, compared to say the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, the Pacific Northwest coastline appears to be a well-kept secret, at least in large yacht circles.A new conference taking place aims to put Puget Sound, BC, Alaska and the entire region`s coast firmly on the superyacht map. The Pacific Yacht Conference taking place in Vancouver on 28th & 29th May, 2014 is an international industry conference that will aim to draw participants from across the globe.
December 10, 2013
Happy Holidays and All The Best of the Season from Canadian Yachting
2013 has been an interesting and eventful one in the yachting world. The cleanup of Hurricane Sandy in the southeastern part of our world kept many people who would rather be boating busy right into the summer. New innovations in equipment and electronics made the America’s Cup race a nail-biting finale to follow as America’s Team Oracle finally mastered their electronics to come from behind and triumph over New Zealand’s Team Emirates in a flying and drawn-out finish. Boat shows across Canada and indeed North America saw great
December 10, 2013
The SS Keewatin Welcomes Community For Tree Lighting
Visitors to the SS Keewatin in Port McNicoll were surrounded with Christmas spirit on Thursday evening, as the historic steamship and a large Christmas tree were lit up for the holidays.The event also included family-friendly activities, bonfires and music.
December 10, 2013
Safe Passage for Robert Buller
With the sudden death of Robert Buller in late October, we at Canadian Yachting lost a valued friend and contributor, while many in the marine industry on the West Coast and throughout North America lost a respected colleague. Robert’s wide circle of friends in boating knew him in many roles: a journalist with a strong interest in marine equipment and systems; a dedicated Canadian Power Squadron instructor with a specialty in navigation; owner of the classic 48’ Monk powerboat Nirvana; a keen restorer of wooden small craft; even as the guy who