Boating World 2010 Fall-Winter

IN PLAIN VIEW THE EASIEST-TO-READ ENGINE DISPLAYS
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BoatingWorld
THE LEADER IN RECREATIONAL TRAILERBOATING
boatingworld.com FALL/WINTER 2010
GREAT LOOP
4 BOATERS SHARE THEIR TALES AND ADVICE
PAGE 50
SMALL BOATS,
WORST-CASE SCENARIO
HOW TO AVOID A TRAILERING DISASTER
11 GREEN PRODUCTS
FOUR WINNS
SL262
TO USE THIS WINTER
250 INTRIGUE
228
SL262
COBALT
296
p. 34 p. 42 p. 38
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: SPORTBOATS, DECKBOATS, WAKE BOATS, FISH BOATS, PONTOONS AND MORE!
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VOLUME XXXI, NUMBER 8
M AG A Z I N E
contents Fall/Winter 10
F E AT U R E S Americas Great Loop
Climb aboard for an epic journey around eastern North America
VIDEO
Green Cleaning
A roundup of our favorite green cleaning products
The Dog Days of Summer

Tons of photos of your salty dogs
Premier 250 Intrigue
Performance pontooning at its most luxurious
BOATS TESTED

Performance pontooning at its most luxurious
Four Winns SL262

European refinement in a Michigan-made package
Tahoe 228
The deckboat that does it all
Cobalt 296
The ultimate weekend warrior
D E PA R T M E N T S
Editors Letter
The summer of oil
Trailering How
cutting corners can lead to disaster
Bonehead Blunders Mistakes

no boater should make
Mailbox Letters from our

readers
Coast Guard How to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning Seamanship Coldweather safety tips Contest: Name the Boat Win a set
of waterproof speakers from West Marine
DIY Installing a side-scan

transducer
Contest: Sudoku Win a

polisher pack from Shurhold
Currents Bits from the

boating world
Engines Gauges get a

face-lift
Watersports Offshore PWC racers take a beating Ask the Experts Our
panel of experts answers your questions
Gear The latest accessories, gadgets and electronics
BoatingWorld July/August 2009
GO COMPACT
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manufacturer of COMPACT and electric powered pontoon boats that are easy to trailer, easy to maneuver and ideal for smaller lakes, smaller budgets and smaller outboards. Perfect for cruising or fishing and stable in the water, our pontoons are a great alternative to larger boats or V-hulls. See our extensive line of Qwest and Gillgetter Compact Pontoon Boats on our website or call for a brochure. Dealer inquiries welcome.
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editors letter alan jones
THE DEBACLE IN THE GULF

Free reign for oil exploration in the Gulf is proving costly to our waterways
BY ALAN JONES
saw it in July as I was flying to Sea Rays AquaPalooza signature event from Tampa to Austin over the Gulf of Mexico: The Spill, which is a ridiculous word for what I was looking at from 30,000 feet. The word spill should be reserved for describing small amounts of milk, not this gigantic sheen laced with rusty brown tendrils that stretched for hundreds of miles.
For many boaters, the Gulf of Mexico is their playground. But the events since April 20 have changed that, and I know Im not the only one shaking my head and wondering how this could have happened. BP is leading the rush to tap deep-water oil in the Gulf, with a reputation for high-risk, highreward enterprises (its the only major oil company to express an interest in working in Iraq, for example). The U.S. government has been actively promoting deep-water drilling and subsidizes companies for drilling deep, thanks to its royalty relief program. The problem as demonstrated by the Deepwater Horizon disaster is that regulation was practically nonexistent. Before a company can drill, it must submit a proposal telling what would happen in the event of a blowout, and BPs 52-page report made for some interesting reading. Unfortunately, it was largely fiction. In the report, BP claimed it could skim 491,721 barrels of oil per day from the surface of the water, but 77 days into the disaster we learned that only 67,143 barrels had been skimmed, total. BP also claimed that oil dispersants are 90 percent effective, when in reality its more like 30 percent. Peter Lutz, who died in 2005, was listed as a wildlife expert on the BP team, and the document even described the wildlife that could be affected, such as sea lions, seals and walruses none of which lives in the Gulf. Even with all the misinformation in the document, there was one critical element missing altogether: how BP would stop a blowout. Its clear that no one actually read this ridiculous report, which would have been outed had it been written for Wikipedia. After watching the fumbling and bumbling while trying to cap the well, it became clear there was no workable plan in place other than to drill a relief well, which BP proudly stated was slightly ahead of schedule. As Bill Maher might say, new rule: If you open a hole in the bottom of the ocean, you must be able to close it. Period. It also turns out that the Minerals Management System (MMS) was not just in charge of overseeing safety, but was also responsible for negotiating and collecting money for new leases. More wells approved means more money generated, and that creates a huge conflict of interest. A
BoatingWorld Fall/Winter 2010
good first step was taken in June by Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar when the MMS was divided into three entities: the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, and the Office of Natural Resource Revenue. Salazar was touted as the new sheriff in town who was going to clean up the mess, but the fact that there havent been wholesale firings in response to decades of bureaucratic ineptitude and corruption might lead one to believe its situation normal. The bottom line is that we need oil, and if we can get it domestically, all the better. Deep-water drilling in the Gulf of Mexico isnt likely to go away, but if we drill, we have to do it safely, because we cant afford another disaster like this. The cleanup of this spill er catastrophic disaster, which was the equivalent of an Exxon Valdez dump every five days, will take many years to accomplish; and things may never be the same. People who are involved in cutting safety corners and disregarding procedures to keep drilling from going over budget or falling behind schedule need to be given 10-year timeouts in prison as a lesson that when it comes to protecting our priceless environment; gambling isnt allowed. Its time for us to take a more active role, by legislatively creating a task force of people with the proper equipment to inspect wells and the legal power to take action in emergencies such as Deepwater Horizon, all paid for by those drilling in the Gulf. I have a feeling were going to need it: The Gulf of Mexico has about 7,000 active leases, of which 64 percent are in deep water, up to twice the depth of Deepwater Horizon. We have drilled about 50,000 wells since 1947, but there are more than 27,000 that have been plugged and abandoned and arent being monitored. Yeesh. BW
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M AG A Z I N E
SAY WHAT? We asked the BW team:
If you had your own cable TV network, what would it be called?

PUBLISHER Duncan McIntosh, Jr.
Guys Gone Boating

CO-PUBLISHER Teresa Ybarra McIntosh
As The Stomach Turns

ASSOC. EDITOR/PUBLISHER Jeff Fleming
Ahhfull TV
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Alan Jones
We jump the shark!
BABLN: Big Als Boating Leisure Network

MANAGING EDITOR Kristina Ackermann
Reality Bites
ART DIRECTOR Julie Hogan
Looney Tunes 24/7

SYSTEMS MANAGER Mike Miller
Massive Intense Kitchen Experience (MIKE) PRODUCTION Mary Monge ABRTV: Anything But Reality TV
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Tip of the Day

Daily updates with sage wisdom every boater should know.
Boating World magazine supports responsible forest management, which protects habitat for threatened and endangered species, fosters prompt reforestation and is committed to protecting water quality.
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MAILBOX Letters from our readers

Ready for Regulation
I just read your article on boater licensing/education (Editors Letter, July/August 2010). While I agree with
editors letter alan jones
BLUE-LIGHT SPECIAL
New boating laws could cause an unwanted, two-boat raft-up
BY ALAN JONES
his year saw a new batch of state boating laws passed, which continues the trend of increased boater regulation. While some of the laws seem fairly innocuous, others may seem to be an unwelcome foot in the door. Law enforcement officers tend to write warnings for the first few months, but now that summer is in full swing, expect those warnings to become citations that could smack you right upside the wallet.
The most pervasive trend is the ever-increasing mandate for formal boater education. This year North Carolina and Florida joined the 39 other states that require some or all of the boating population to pass a state certified test. Florida requires anyone younger than 21 to become certified, while in North Carolina, all boaters younger than 26 must pass a test to avoid getting a ticket while driving a boat. I checked to see what sort of training is available and most are Internet courses that cost around $30 if you pass and theres no limit to how many times you can take it. Ive taken a few and found most to be puffed up with unnecessary information. The good news is that most marine insurance programs offer a discounted rate to boaters who have successfully completed a safety course. Even more good news: Both North Carolina and Florida (along with many other states) accept the BoatU.S. Foundations (a nonprofit organization) training course, which is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as exceeding the minimum requirements for its National Recreational Boating Safety Program. Best of all,
its free. Unfortunately, 11 states still dont accept this training. I strongly urge everyone in the states that do recognize the BoatU.S. course to take the class (I passed it in about an hour). The proof of training card is a good thing to have in your wallet if youre a trailer adventurer, because many places will accept other states certificates. You can find the link to the course on BoatingWorld.com under the Resources tab. To locate your states boating laws, go to boatus.org/onlinecourse and click on check the regulations. Some states, such as Connecticut, New Hampshire, New Jersey and New York, require that boating safety courses be completed in a classroom instead of online. This route is far more expensive, not to mention the logistics of juggling classroom time with your busy schedule. New York takes this law to the extreme by mandating that everyone operating a PWC in the state including visitors attend an eight-hour classroom course that costs $70 at most private venues. Instead of education, this seems more like a disingenuous way to limit PWCs and eviscerate the rental industry. Im all for enhanced training, but it shouldnt be a profit center for the private sector, because if this becomes a cash cow, you can bet we
you on the pervasive cost, I am ready for some required education and certification. I have been boating for many years, and the number of people without regard to safety and courtesy on the water has gotten out of control. A few years ago I was hit although lightly by a PWC being driven by a novice. Fortunately, the young lady was wearing a PFD and had slowed down for traffic, but it was still scary because for a moment she disappeared off her PWC. I attended a Coast Guard boating safety course voluntarily and found it to be highly valuable. I sent my sonsin-law to the same course so theyll have a better understanding of the safety issue. Thanks for the article and for your advocacy. Mike Kelly, Joliet, Ill.
Avoid Battery Drain

In your June 2010 edition you had a great article on stereo installation, but heres a tip your readers may not know about: Most car and boat amplifiers use a lot of power, whether they are being played loud or soft. Our local stereo shop installed a Class
D amplifier in my boat that plays just as loud (or louder) than the other classes, but uses a fraction of the power when anchored at the local sandbar for hours without running
incoming
the engine or banks of extra batteries. Jim Prezorski, Fairport, N.Y. and when we left. What a contrast! The wooden planks were put in place July 3 to support the heavy equipment moving onto the beach to help the cleanup effort. Overall, people were working very hard to counter the disaster. Theres a lot more oil out there, but the beach still looked pretty good when we were there. Woody Snell, Deatsville, Ala. Thanks for the photos,Woody! A lot has happened since our last issue, and the forum at BoatingWorld.com has been buzzing with talk about the oil crisis (we dont think the word spill accurately describes the situation) and what can be done to clean the water. From sportfishers to cruisers, virtually all boaters who would typically find sanctuary in the Gulfs warm waters have been affected by the broken oil well. We want to hear from more readers about your experience in the Gulf this summer. If you have photos or stories youd like to share, e-mail them to editor@boatingworld.com.
Summer Vacation in the Gulf

Despite what we saw on the news reports each night, my family and I chose to spend our Fourth of July vacation on the Gulf Coast, in Ft. Morgan Beach, Ala. We took some
How to reach us:

Send us your gripes, criticisms, ideas or whatever is on your mind. Please understand that we cant answer everyone personally. BY MAIL
Write to the Editor at Boating World, 17782 Cowan, Suite A, Irvine, CA 92614.
FAX OR E-MAIL
Fax us at (949) 660-6172; or e-mail us at editor@boatingworld.com. Letters must have the writers full name, signature (unless e-mailed) and city of origin. We reserve the right to edit for the available space.
before and after photos of what the beach looked like when we got there
currents news and notables

by Kristal Seeden
The Sessa S26 packs Italian looks and luxury in a trailerable package.
Fashion Forward ...and Aft

Conceived alongside famed fashion houses Versace, Prada and Dolce & Gabbana, the Sessa S26 is unquestionably Italian. Milanese builder Sessa Marine is known for producing high-caliber craft with chic designs, and the smallest member of its Cruiser line is no exception. The seductive lines and strong performance of the S26 are matched only by its pragmatic layout. At 25 feet, 1 inch, the trailerable day cruiser is perfect for a family outing or a couples weekend retreat,
beginning with its functional deck arrangement. Starting at the stern, the S26s aft sunpad can be extended by folding the lounge backrest. The L-shaped salon seating becomes a full C when the two-person helm seat is reversed, and a table top is cleverly stored on the bottom of the engine hatch for a complete dining environment. An aisle extending from the swim platform to a windshield walk-through leads past the starboard helm to the bow, where an optional sunbathing cushion can be placed. Alongside the corridor is a mini galley to port, housing a sink, prep surface and cabinet. Belowdecks is where the S26 really shows its fierce efficiency with some seriously creative space maximization. A large forward double berth makes use of the 8-foot, 5-inch beam for a comfortable stay on board. Amidships, the cabin offers a minimalist head compartment to starboard and a multipurpose cabinet to
port. The simple head encompasses an electric-flush toilet and a natural oak vanity with a stainless sink, while the dexterous cupboard, also in natural oak for a cohesive look, acts as a wardrobe, secondary galley and housing for an optional stereo system. In the power department, the S26 is offered with your choice of a 5.0L or 5.7L Volvo V-8 sterndrive, putting top speed between 31 and 33 mph. With its runway-ready looks and practical nature, the Sessa S26 is always in vogue. For more information, call Sessas American headquarters in Dania Beach, Fla., at (954) 9251955 or visit sessamarine.com.
Axis Powers
temming from frustrations with the motor on his own boat, South African entrepreneur Mike Beachy Head set out to improve the efficiency of marine propulsion. The result was a totally new concept: the Axis Drive. The most notable difference is its mounting method. Designed to go through the transom and be mounted at a 45-degree angle instead of the usual 13, the stainless steel Axis frees up stern space. Its integral closed cooling system prevents salt water from ever entering the engine. The Axis electrohydraulic cone clutch ensures silky-smooth shifting, and unsightly hoses and rams are kept behind the scenes by its integrated trim and tilt hydraulics. Caudwell Marines Axis Drive comes in both gas and diesel models, ranging from 250 to 400 hp. Information: caudwellmarine.com.
SALTY DOG OF THE MONTH
DOG: Casey OWNERS: Becky and Jay Cable, Seaford, Va.
iToons
WIN THIS!
New from Dave Scaddens Premium Pontoon Craft,

the 2011 Challenger XXX inflatable pontoon is a hardcore anglers dream. The versatile boat can be assembled in a variety of ways to accommodate one person, two adults or two adults and two kids, depending on the choice of Lazer X frame. The exclusive Alcoa aluminum frames are outfitted with the ultra-stable Lazer-Lok standing system, and a one-person frame boasts room for 1,000 pounds of gear. Normally installed facing the pontoon ends, the frames can be reversed and a motor can be added for Zodiac-style operation. The rough-and-tough toons light weight and heavy-duty construction make it capable of being carried to remote mountain lakes or used as a Class V whitewater rapids boat. The Challenger XXX is available for $3,200$3,500 from North Fork Outdoors; (801) 392-5404 or northforkoutdoors.com.
Calling all Salty Dogs: Send your picture to Bobby for your chance to win a SportsStuff tow toy. Contact Bobby at bobby@boatingworld.com or Boating World, Salty Dog, 17782 Cowan, Suite A, Irvine, CA 92614. Please include a photo, along with your name, your dogs name, address and phone number.
B1G NUM3ERS
Angling Economics
Jobs supported by the sportfishing industry
FLIR
The Latest Weapon in the Gulf Oil Spill Cleanup
1.1 1,031,697 17 300
Billions of dollars anglers spend on bait each year
hile FLIR has made its reputation by helping people find their way safely in the dark, lately that same technology has become one of the best tools in the help to clean up the disastrous oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) records minute differences in the temperature signature of objects to produce a vivid picture of whats out there even in total darkness. Since oil has a different temperature signature than water, crews can battle the oil on the darkest of nights while safely avoiding hazardous obstructions. In daylight hours FLIR can help crews see the oil in blinding lighting situations. The same technology is available to boaters in FLIRs First Mate, a handheld unit that costs $2,995. Information: flir.com.
Millions of anglers who fish from boats
Percentage of revenue that fishing produces vs. oranges in Florida Dollars spent by fishermen and hunters per hour
8.6 million
BoatingWorld.com
Classic Boat
1973 Checkmate MX-15
The Widow-Maker
the original Mercury straight-6 motor had seized and the seats were destroyed; if youd sat on them, you would have fallen through the boats decomposing sole. But it was only $200! At the time he bought the boat, A 1977 75 hp the now-22-yearJohnson Stinger old was a boatyard replaced the mechanic in original Merc. Gibraltar, Mich. The Checkmate had been sitting in the yard for a month when the owner of a fiberglass shop next door waltzed in and said he wouldnt take no for an answer: Hed teach Sencey how to restore it, Sencey would pay for parts and materials, and by the end of winter the Checkmate would be a new boat. Working as a volunteer, Sencey learned the restoration process on the spot. He helped to build a new transom and install a new light, rubrail, carpet and seats. But it was painting that really got his attention. He spent countless hours sanding Black Widow; even after he finished the ornate paint job, there was still more sanding. Sencey estimates he and the shop completed $3,000 worth of repairs, plus $8,000 for his paint job quite a deal considering he spent a total of $900 after his initial purchase. It was his first restoration, but the project developed into a new hobby and a job; he was eventually hired at the shop. Sencey is also going to school for electrical engineering, but he admits hes been happily caught in a web of passion for classic boats.
FLOATING FOOD
he deal was just too good to pass up. Much to the chagrin of many a classic boat enthusiasts spouse, this line of reasoning is often the reason a rotting hull and a pile of greasy parts are sitting in the driveway. Thats exactly how Joseph Senceys Black Widow came to be. The 1973 Checkmate MX-15 was a decaying heap when he bought it in the summer of 2009. The transom was rotted through,
kippered snack shacks are everywhere, providing good eats to waterlogged foodies on lakes, rivers, bays and harbors. Here are a few mouth-watering examples: Hot dog boats sell wieners, fajitas and Philly cheesesteaks to lake boaters in Michigan, Missouri, Kentucky, Florida and Illinois. Michigans SS Pizza is equipped with an oven and a full kitchen, with dinghies delivering hot pies boatside. A buoyant barista peddles coffee and muffins in Australias Sydney Harbour. Lucky boaters in Virginia are privy to an ice cream boat. The sweet aromas of homemade cinnamon buns and fresh bread fill Montague Harbour off Galiano Island, B.C., all emanating from the Bakery Boat. Iowa boaters on the Mississippi River can get a tasty hamburger fresh off the grill aboard the Burger Boat. No mayo please.
CLUED IN
n the event of an onboard fire, positioning your boat downwind may keep the flames from spreading. If the fire is aft, head into the wind; if its in the bow, put the stern into the wind.
Name: Black Widow Engine: 75 hp Johnson Stinger Length: 14 feet, 11 inches Cruising speed: 40 mph Material: Fiberglass
For boat manufacturer deals and incentives, go to BoatingWorld.com
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in seas tranquil and turbulent,
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It takes the right people, a strong balance sheet, superior claims handling and local market experience to address the risks of the marine industry. These are the strengths of ACE. We take on the responsibility of risks so that you can take on the responsibility of making things happen. We call this insuring progress. Visit us at www.acemarineinsurance.com to locate an agent or broker in your area.
2010 ACE Group. Coverages underwritten by one or more of the ACE Group of Companies. Not all coverages available in all jurisdictions.
FROM THE POOPDECK
Ask Bobby:
Advice for Your Pet on Board
recent Colorado River excursion, our black Lab had the time of his life splashing around, but a couple of days later he was howling in pain and favoring his rear. We noticed the base of his tail was swollen, and his entire tail just hung limply. The vet said it was swimmers tail. Ever heard of it?
Ryan and Chelsea Marshall, Bullhead City, Nev.
DEAR BOBBY: On a
he U.S. Coast Guard wants YOU! To help maintain the security of our waters, the Coast Guard created Americas Waterway Watch. Similar to landbased Neighborhood Watch, the program calls on boaters to keep their eyes peeled for strange or suspicious behavior. The way the Coast Guard sees it, if you spend a lot of time on the water, you know whats normal and whats not. To report unusual activity, call (877) 24-WATCH. More information: americaswaterwaywatch.com.
Join the Ranks
Swimmers tail, also known as limber tail and cold water tail, is a common affliction for sporting dogs and hounds, especially Labs, golden retrievers and beagles. Its kind of similar to tennis elbow in people. Although its not a serious condition, it can cause agonizing pain. Swimmers tail shows up suddenly and can be characterized by swelling at the tail base, and a flaccidly hanging tail (not tucked under) or a tail that sticks out straight for a few inches and then hangs down. The condition is brought on by activities that require more tail muscle use than usual (i.e., swimming), or contact with exceptionally cold or warm water even a bath. Vets usually prescribe an anti-inflammatory and some quiet time; the injured dog will most likely feel better within two to four days.
Have a question about your salty dog? Ask Bobby by e-mailing bobby@boatingworld.com or write to Boating World/Ask Bobby, 17782 Cowan, Suite A, Irvine, CA 92614.
Tightwad Tips
Trailer Tires When a trailer tire is needed in a pinch in mid-vacation, for example call trailer mechanics in the area and ask if theres a spare, lightly used tire laying around. Be sure to find one with a matching bolt pattern. Making due with a used tire could not only save about $200, its eco-friendly.
Cleaning White vinegar is a cheap, effective cleaner and deodorizer. Soak the toilet bowl in the head with white vinegar overnight to remove waterline stains or pour a cup of baking soda, followed by a cup of hot distilled white vinegar, down the sink drain and rinse after five minutes.
The Great Lakes

cover a surface area of 95,000 square miles and hold an estimated 6 quadrillion gallons of water. Thats about 90 percent of the U.S. freshwater supply.
Did You Know?
Designed by Boaters, For Boaters

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Big Catch Shirts
Performance Apparel Built with Anglers in Mind!

You know that the right equipment makes you a more effective angler. That applies just as much to what you wear as it does to every other part of your fishing arsenal. Our new Big Catch Shirt is designed to let you cast and move with complete freedom, with enough pockets and loops to keep essential gear close at hand. UPF 60 sun protection shields you from harmful UV-rays.
Dock Shorts
Designed for comfort, our all-cotton Dock Shorts are the perfect complement to our shirt, with pockets and tool loops engineered for function. If youre serious about your fishing, you need to get to West Marine!
Visit our stores! For the location nearest you, go to westmarine.com

engines displays
On Display
Smart displays are lighting up the world of engine monitoring
hey say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, and when it comes to your engine and boat systems thats the truth you want all the info you can get. Modern displays give you the ability to monitor all areas of interest, yet take up far less space than the B-52-worthy array of yesterdays gauges. Multifunction gauges are nothing new, but first-generation LCDs were notoriously difficult to read. Dark gray on light gray might look good on Regis Philbin, but its not ideal when youre trying to see if your engine is overheating. Today, smart displays have adjustable contrast, brightness and color, so they can be read during a new moon or at noon on the Equator.
Teleflex
The Teleflex Multi-Function fixed LCD is designed to work with any engine that uses the NMEA 2000 protocol and is a great choice for those who want to preserve space on the dash for items such as big-screen fishfinder/GPS displays. A wide range of formats allows the driver to display information in digital, analog, bar graph or pictogram formats. The enhanced LCD means you dont have to be directly in front of the screen to read it, and with adjustable contrast and brightness, challenging light conditions are no worries mate. Optional warning lights can be added to make sure you dont miss signs of trouble.
Circle 53 on reader service card
BY ALAN JONES
Night View
Raymarine Yamaha
Command Link Plus is Yamahas newest entry into the engine information world and uses a 5-inch, high-resolution LCD color screen to monitor not only engine Combo Screen functions such as speed, rpm, temperature and fuel burn, but also systems such as water and holding tank levels. The display can be customized for easy reading by adjusting contrast and backgrounds. The black numbers on a white background with blue bar levels give you fantastic visiTank Screen bility during daylight, while the yellow numbers on a black background really pop in the dark and save your night vision. It can handle up to three engines per screen, and because its fully NMEA 2000 compatible, its plug n play easy. Circle 64 on reader service card Raymarines ST70 has a sunlight-view 3.5-inch TFT color LCD screen that can be programmed to display up to six items at a time, which means one-stop shopping for skippers looking for information. The bright screen is highly visible in any condition and even from an acute side angle. Its fully compatible with other NMEA 2000 products as well as Raymarines SeaTalkng system. A wide variety of alarms are available such as depth, waypoint arrival, off-course and temperature. The buttons are well labeled and the menu system is very intuitive, so you wont have to waste time reading a manual when you could be out on the water.
engines displays
Suzuki
Suzukis SMIS 2-inch and 4-inch round displays allow owners to upgrade without having to cut holes in the console. The displays use a high-contrast dot matrix screen to show graphic and numerical data and can work in conjunction with other NMEA 2000 compatible probes. They can be used on a wide range of Suzuki engines all the way from the DF40 to the flagship DF300 fourstrokes. Up to two engines information can be displayed on each gauge and can be combined with other units for use with three or more engines.
Evinrude
Evinrudes I-Command digital gauges come in 2-inch and 3.5-inch sizes and are fully programmable, so users can customize their readouts to include just the information they choose. Functions from engine speed, temperature, tank status and sonar alarms are just a few of the options. Unique to Evinrude is the ability to winterize an engine without the driver leaving the helm. By scrolling to the bus devices you press enter and select which engine you want to put to bed for an extended layup. The gauge gives you prompts, walks you through the entire process and keeps you informed on its progress. A clever feature is the ability to turn off those annoying key sounds that make your dog howl every time you fire up the engine. Circle 28 on reader service card
Mercury Volvo Penta

Volvo Pentas 7-inch Display might have a generic name, but its wide range of functions puts it in a class of its own, with features such as the ability to interface with a video camera that can keep tabs on your engine compartment or even help you back into a slip. Information can be displayed in digital format or as an analog gauge if you like the oldschool look. In addition to boat and engine information, a clever option is the Trip Computer software that gives you valuable information such as current fuel economy, distance attainable at your current throttle setting and average economy for your entire cruise. For 2010 models using Volvos IPS joystick docking system, the display shows the status of the Dynamic Positioning System, which can hold your boat in one position like a virtual anchor.
After years of resisting the NMEA 2000 standard and using its proprietary system, Mercury joins the rest of the boating world with a device called Gateway that makes the VesselView display compatible with other electronics that follow this common protocol. Now that it is part of the NMEA 2000 family, you can even display information from your GPS. Using a 5x7-inch, high-resolution LCD, VesselView can display up to three engines parameters on one screen at the same time. There are 18 different screen choices to choose from, and the amount of info that can be squeezed onto one screen is amazing. You can even save settings on a USB flash drive. The fuel burn screen is particularly useful, because it also displays the amount of fuel needed to reach your next waypoint; so if you run out, its definitely your fault. The VesselView system with Gateway is for use on Mercury engines released in 2007 or later. Circle 38 on reader service card
BoatingWorld.com
trailering tips
station wagon but then tilted lazily to the left and with all its remaining momentum, it flipped upside down and slammed to the dark freeway surface, laying there Cutting corners like a dead, white-bellied when buying a new perch. trailer can lead to In the many years since disaster. that day, my career path led me to work for ShoreLandrs customer service department. In my experience serving ShoreLandr customers, Ive seen my dads behavior repeated. It seems the buyer becomes so enamored of the boat that the qualities of the trailer are wholly neglected. That is, until the trailer becomes a source of trouble. Even folks like my father, a man of knowledge and experience in vehicle maintenance, were unable to grasp BY DOUG CLOUGH, SHORELANDR CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER the idea of having the proper trailer for his year, my brothers and I will return to the same northern Minnesota their trailering habits. Were I able to go lake resort that weve been going to since 1965. Many of our fondest back and tell him how to avoid the memories involved our familys 16-foot fiberglass Mark Twain inboard catastrophic loss of our boat, I would boat. As a young man, I launched and retrieved that boat for the first time on focus on two concepts that I stress that lake. I smoked my first cigar with my brother Jeff while listening to Pink frequently to my customers. Floyd and catching Northern Pike. I learned to slalom ski behind that boats First, perform a fearless and 110 horsepower Chevy inboard engine. searching evaluation of your trailering habits. Discuss with your dealer what ahead of the metal break. But stop to All of these experiences left lasting you intend to carry in your boat. A consider purchasing another trailer? memories, but none as vivid as the No way. Such an approach simply did- knowledgeable dealer will know the one in 1980 as we trailered that Mark basic weight of the boat, batteries and nt agree with my fathers inborn sense Twain toward home. I was daydreama full tank of gas, but its vital to make of frugality. ing of the girl Id met that week at the sure the dealer understands the other So we hoped for the best and conlake when we stopped for a break things you plan to stow in your boat tinued our route home. As fate would around Brainerd, Minn. Thats when while you trailer. We trailered two 15have it, just 30 miles from home, diswe found a fracture in the metal gallon gas cans, all of our drinking aster struck. The rear of the station tongue of the trailer. water and a weeks worth of clothes wagon suddenly shuddered, and my My dad stopped at a repair shop and food more than 450 miles to our dad stammered in disbelief, No, no, and had the fracture reinforced with resort location. Ask the dealer to go no! as the tongue failed and tore two welded metal plates. He was not one to ever make a purchase when the apart. The boat pitched wildly side-to- over the math with you and make sure the trailer youre getting with your toy side, sparks lighting up the night as seller got a whiff of the scent of neceshas enough carrying capacity to take the tongue fragment scraped against sity. As a consequence, my dad passed on the load youll put it under. the asphalt. Then the trailer bucked several marine dealers without so Second, make sure the trailer and upward, and the bow of the boat bore much as slowing down to check prices boat tow well. Take a test-drive. If it down on the gate of the station wagon for new trailers. Our only stop was to seems like the trailer is pushing, swaybut veered off at the last second. For a reinforce the failing weld with ski rope ing or simply doesnt tow well, review tied from the winch post to the section moment the boat began to pass our
Skip the Bargain Bin
David J. Shuler
trailering tips
your vehicles towing package capacity. Make sure that your vehicles towing capabilities are adequate and that the dealer has adjusted the trailer axle so the tongue weight is within the range of 5 to 7 percent of the boat and trailers total weight. If youve requested a certain trailer for your boat, the axle will need to be set by the dealer; if you are taking the trailer that comes with the boat from the factory, this axle adjustment will already be set. Taking these factors into account may seem outdated, but the importance of following these principles remains high. Trailer selection is often not readily available to todays consumer and instead comes bundled with the boat and sold as a package. This situation requires even more dogged tenacity on the consumers part to make sure theyre getting the correct trailer for their needs. On top of trailer weight capacity and vehicle towing capacity, you must also take into account braking configuration and related state laws that dictate at what gross vehicle weight rating the trailer must have brakes and on how many axles. Fortunately, todays consumers can still work with their dealer on what trailer comes with their boat purchase. Even if the boat and trailer are sold as a package, the bundled trailer can be swapped out for a trailer better suited for your needs. Buying any recreational craft is a significant purchase, so its essential that you not only get what you like, but that your purchase has all the proper accessories trailer included to help your investment last a lifetime. Whats more, consumers are empowered by law to demand the correct, codecompliant and safest trailer for their boat. Taking these basic steps will ensure that your lifetime memories will be more about having fun at the lake, rather than the spectacle of losing your craft and everything in it on a dark freeway.
Towing Gear
Three essential trailer gadgets
Off the Beep End
Launch Alert | $59.95
Quality Mark Inc.; (651) 462-2513; qualitymarkinc.com
Unless youve developed eyes on the back of your tow vehicle, estimating the perfect depth while backing down the ramp can be a challenge. Once mounted at the predetermined waterline depth on a trailer, Launch Alerts depth sensor transmits to an alarm, plugged into the tow vehicles cigarette lighter, that emits an audible beep. Launch Alert helps speed up the launching process so you spend less time at the ramp and more time on the water.
Circle 75 on reader service card, page 33
Park and Recreation

Parkit360 Motorized Trailer Dolly | $822-$1,059
SPH Welding and Fabrication Inc.; (613) 226-5517; parkit360.com
Maneuvering your trailer into tight spots with your tow vehicle can be cumbersome for even the most experienced driver. The compact Parkit360 is a powerful dolly with a 12v motor that can easily position trailers weighing 2,500 to 9,800 pounds, even over grass and gravel. The lightweight unit can be used with an onboard or trailer battery. Circle 78 on reader service card, page 33
Chock It Up
Magna-Chock | $19.95
T-H Marine; (256) 772-0164; thmarine.com
Weve all seen him: that guy scouring the parking lot for large rocks or stray lumber to use as chocks for his trailer tires. Dont be that guy. The Magna-Chock magnetic wheel chock has a powerful magnet that holds fast to your trailer, so youll never find yourself without a chock again. Made of UVresistant, heavy-duty natural rubber, the Magna-Chock is designed to last. Circle 76 on reader service card, page 33
BoatingWorld.com
diy transducer
Step 1
Peripheral Vision
How to Install a Side-Scan Transducer
ide-scanning is the hottest new feature in fishfinders, but if you want to see fish that are 250 feet to either side of your boat, youll need to mount a special transducer. Its not physically demanding, but youll want to know a few specifics to make sure the job gets done right.
is even with the hull bottom. Use the mounting template for the proper screw spacing. Then coat each hole with a liberal amount of adhesive/ sealant rated for below-the-waterline use, such as 3M5200, and screw the transducer mount onto the transom. Using the supplied nuts and bolts, secure the transducer to the mount.
Step 3: Choose a Location for the Module

BY LENNY RUDOW
Step 1: Choose the Right Location for the Transducer

I mounted a Lowrance LSS-1 StructureScan on a 22-foot Glacier Bay center console catamaran with an existing Lowrance HDS display unit. The down-looking transducer was already in place, but in order to get the best performance out of the StructureScan unit, I had to install a side-scan transducer as well. The LSS-1 side-scan transducer needs to be mounted within 1 foot of the existing down-looking transducer, which in my case was mounted on the port side of the starboard hull. The LSS-1 is longer than other transducers and may interfere with the engines lower unit if center-mounted on the transom. I mounted the LSS-1
far enough to starboard to avoid this problem, which put the two transducers 7 inches apart. In the case of a deep-V or semi-V hull, the LSS-1 can be shifted to either side of the down-looking transducer as long as both transducers are mounted at the same depth, within 1 foot of each other, and dont interfere with the motors lower unit when its tilted all the way down.
The module is the StructureScans brain or black box. Its waterproof and can be mounted above or belowdecks, but protected areas are preferable. When you choose a mounting location for the module, make sure you can get the transducer wire to the module, and that an ethernet communications wire can be run from the module to the display unit. I mounted the module in the head compartThe side-imaging views of a Lowrance StructureScan.
Step 2: Mount the Transducer

Once youve selected the location for your transducer, check the inside of the transom to ensure there are no obstructions (bilge pumps or switches, for example,) and drill two pilot holes about 2 inches above the hull bottom, so the face of the transducer
diy transducer
Step 3
Step 2
The key to this DIY project is choosing the best location for the transducer and module. Remember to coat holes liberally with sealant designed for use below the waterline before drilling screws into the transom.
Step 5 Step 4
ment, just below and to port of the helm, close to the opening of the fore and aft wire chase.
HDS unit, and plug it in as well.
Step 5: Power the Unit

Now youll need to supply the module with a 12v power source. Run the power line to a fuse or breaker panel, and crimp a female bayonet connector to the end of the positive and negative leads. Seal the connection with liquid electrical tape or heat-shrink tubing. Now that all of the wiring is in place, it needs to be secured. All wires should be loomed, bundled and supported every 6 inches to prevent chafing and stress. Use
Step 4: Mount the Module

The LSS-1 module has mounting holes pre-drilled in each corner, so no additional bracket is necessary. Simply drill four pilot holes, coat them with liberal amounts of adhesive/sealant and screw the module into place. Next, fish the transducer wire through the wiring chase to the module, and plug it in. Then run the ethernet communications wire to the
plastic tie-wraps to secure the transducer, ethernet and power cables. Now that the system and all wires are in place, you can attach the power lead connectors to the power source and test to make sure the unit has side-scanning capabilities. Caution: Before launching the boat to test the system, be sure to wait the full cure-time for the adhesive/ sealant in the transducer mounting holes (as per the manufacturers instructions). Follow these steps, and youll be ready to find fish out, down and all around. BW
BoatingWorld.com
watersports
WAT E R S P O R TS G E A R
Take It to the Mat

WaterMat | $747 Sit, run, jump, cartwheel, slide or sunbathe on water atop the WaterMat. The 6- by 20foot mat is constructed of closed-cell polyethylene foam, making it buoyant enough to hold more than a dozen children at once without having to be inflated. Stow a rolled-up WaterMat on board and unfurl it on the lake as a floating gymnastics mat, a dive platform or a sunpad. H20 Pod, Inc.; (888) 462-8386; thewatermat.com
Hustle and Flow

BY KRISTAL SEEDEN
pwcoffshore.com
Sound Waves
Mi-Sport VBT Waterproof Headset | $149 Whether its Creedence Clearwater Revival or Justin Bieber who gets you going, the Mi-Sport VBT will pump up the volume of your watersports activities. Kick out the jams while slaloming or shredding the wake, or take the Mi-Sport for a swim as deep as 3 feet. Load up to 1,000 songs onto its built-in 4G MP3 player, which can be controlled by voice command or with exterior buttons. The Mi-Sport VBT comes with Bluetooth for taking phone calls or streaming music from a cell phone. Mi-Sport; +44 (0)115 845 7046; mi-sportmp3.com
ry to imagine riding a motocross course, but in the middle of the ocean and on a PWC. And its 60 miles long. And there are 5-foot waves and rollers. And youre going 70-plus mph. And you have to navigate through fog and boat traffic. Got all that? Now, add in the agonizing pain inflicted on your body each time your 11foot, 250 hp steed slams against the unforgiving water beneath you and thats just the stock division. If you can picture that, you might get a vague idea of what riders experienced during the July LB2CAT race, the pinnacle of the Triple Crown of Offshore. Forty helmet-clad racers on souped-up PWCs screamed past the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach, Calif., speeding nearly 30 miles to Catalina Island, and then back. The competitors tore through the water at wide-open throttle most of the race, but the supercharged vessels were no match for the channels angry rough. In a stunning turn of events, almost all the riders in the pro division, all running heavily modified PWCs with 400 average horsepower, were sidelined because of engine malfunctions. Kim Bushong, a 52-year-old member of the Vet/Master class, took the trophy aboard a stock Kawasaki Ultra 250X. The victory is a testament to the nature of the sport: Its the experience of the rider, not the machine, who wins the race. Learn more: pwcoffshore.com.
pwcoffshore.com
Barf Fly
Barf Ball | $720 Any fan of climbing inside a giant tire and rolling down a hill will be able to appreciate the charm of OBriens Barf Ball. The clear, spherical inflatable, constructed of 24-gauge PVC, features a center safety chamber for one rider. Three welded PVC hand grips inside can be maneuvered to turn the Barf Ball into a spiraling, rolling on-water Tilt-AWhirl. You might want to wait an hour or two after that big cheeseburger before trying to impress the ladies. OBrien; (800) 662-7436; obrien.com
Just the Facts, Maam
Offshore PWC racers withstand countless hours of training to develop their skills. When not in the water, many riders build endurance and strength with mountain biking. Pros sink about $15,000 into performance mods and start preparing a year ahead.
BETWEEN PARKING AND DOCKING.

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MARINE ENGINES
HEAD SCRATCHER
LETTER OF THE MONTH

Have your dealer either remove the cylinder head, or use a bore scope to peer into the cylinder. Its a rare occurrence, but I believe the engine ran so hot the block expanded, leaving excessive tolerance for the sleeve to rotate, changing the intake and exhaust port timing. It would be a fair question to ask why the head gasket survived and the sleeve didnt. All I can say is that Ive seen an entire electrical system short and melt, and the fuse remain intact. Some things make no sense. GM
MAINTENANCE
Q|
I have a 3 hp outboard that overheated this spring. I took it to the dealer to have the water pump replaced, but afterward the engine ran lousy. There was no top end, and the idle is erratic. They cleaned the fuel system and carburetor, and replaced the spark plug. They say no water shows on the spark plug, so the head gasket isnt blown. The engine has good compression and does pump water now. Can you help? Darrell Abbott, Waukesha, Wis.
SPOTTY VISION
Q|
Many of us suffer from water spots on our boat glass that we just cannot get off, most likely caused by salt water. What is the solution to get spots off glass and prevent them in the future? Mike Canan, Seattle
MEET OUR PANEL OF EXPERTS:
Keith Burton
Burton co-hosts Truck Test Digest, a nationally syndicated radio program featuring trucks, SUVs and crossover vehicles. He also writes for many national car and boat magazines.
Grid Michal
With 50 years of experience as a marine tech, Michal is also American Suzuki and OMC/ Bombardier (BRP) certified.
Lenny Rudow
Rudow has won four Boating Writers International awards in the electronics category and one Outdoor Writers Association of America Technical award.
Bruce W. Smith
Smith has three decades of experience as a professional photographer, editor, columnist, book author and radio host. He is also co-host/producer of Truck Test Digest.
Steve Knauth
Knauth is a threetime Boating Writers Intl award winner and contributor to multiple publications. He was a marina yard foreman for 12 years before becoming a full-time writer.
Capt. David G. Brown

Captain Brown has been a licensed master for more than 20 years. He has written five boating books and also built new boats and restored antique boats.
This problem is easily resolved. First, check on the material your windows are made of. If its Isinglass, try Aerospace Products 303 Protectant. This spray cleaner and treatment provides a UV coating to help Isinglass resist cracking and a nontoxic, environmentally protective surface to resist further damage. Simply follow the accompanying instructions. Strataglass can be treated with IMARs Strataglass Protective Cleaner, a polymer-based compound that cleans the surface and restores flexibility. To prevent spots from coming back, rinse your boat off after every trip and wash panels occasionally with warm water, a mild soap and a soft sponge. SK
ITS NO FUN WHEN YOUR NEW OUTBOARD IS IN FOR MAINTENANCE. STAY ON THE WATER WITH EVINRUDE E-TEC AND SYLVAN.
With 3 years of no dealer-scheduled maintenance, Evinrude E-TEC keeps you exactly where you want to be. On the water. And nothing enhances time on the water, or an Evinrude E-TEC, quite like a Sylvan Mandalay. To learn more, visit evinrude.com.
2010 BRP US Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its afliates. Evinrude E-TEC requires no dealer-scheduled maintenance for 3 years or 300 hours (see 2010 Operators Manual for details). Always observe all applicable boating laws and drive responsibly and safely. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Q/A ask the experts

TRAILERING
ALIGNMENT TROUBLE
Q|
I bought a classic 24foot cruiser last year and it didnt come with a trailer, so I bought a trailer and built it to fit. I used the inside runners just as they were and made the outside runners adjustable so when I got the boat on the trailer I could make it fit. I did all this and thought I had done a good job, but Im having a problem when I load the boat on the trailer. It just doesnt want to center itself, and I cant seem to get it to go up the same every time. Because of this I have to pull the boat out of the water, check to see where it is on the trailer, then back it into the water again to adjust it. Can you help me so I can get this thing loaded the first time, every time? Ive looked all over the Internet for some help, but theres nothing about how to build and adjust the runners. Stoney Spears, Burleson, Texas
First, it sounds to me like youre submerging your trailer too far. The first quarter or third of the trailer should be dry when youre loading, and you should know at a glance without pulling it out of the water whether the boat is centered properly or not. With the trailer submerged too far, even if you drive the boat into center perfectly, it can float out of center before you get in your truck and start pulling it up the ramp. It also sounds like you need to fiddle with the inside bunks a bit. If theyre in the original position, they probably arent spaced properly. Space them so the inside edges of each bunk lay against a strake on the boats hull. This will help push the boat into the center once its about a third of the way onto the trailer. Id also consider adding side guide-on bunks, which are quite helpful for centering the boat. LR
Dont let minor repairs limit your time on the water

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Perfect epoxy for an imperfect world
Ready to use and easily stored with your gear, Six10 comes in a 190 ml cartridge, available for around $20 from your local WEST SYSTEM dealer. To learn more about Six10 or find a dealer near you, visit www.westsystem.com.
866-937-8797 www.westsystem.com
Q/A ask the experts

PERFORMANCE
FOIL OR TABS?
Q|
I have a 24-foot bowrider with a 350 outdrive. When I bought the boat it had a 1.62 gear ratio with a 4-blade prop with 21 degrees of pitch. Ive owned the boat for two years now and have gone through four outdrives. The dealers fix was to change the outdrive to a 1.47 gear ratio and a 3-blade prop with 17 degrees of pitch. Since making this change I have lost almost a full second off my holeshot, 6 mph off my top end, and I burn through almost three times the amount of fuel. My biggest complaint is the fuel, so Ive been doing some research on hydrofoils and trim tabs to see if that will help. What happens if you use both a hydrofoil and trim tabs? Would you recommend one over the other? Thad Powell, Topeka, Kan.
TOUGHEST
PLANET EARTH
FOR THE JOBS ON
The hydrofoil brings you onto plane quickly but continues to drive your bow down as you increase speed. The trim aspect of the outdrive cant overcome the foil. Trim tabs would be a better bet, as they can help the boat plane more quickly and can aid in side-to-side balance. But lets go back to the outdrive: In my 50-plus years of experience, Ive never known anyone to replace a drive more than once. Why is the drive failing? What part of the drive is failing? Is the drive too light for the boat its pushing? Is this an issue where the engine manufacturer should be talking to the boat manufacturer about expectations promised by salespersons? What led to the different gear ratio? Unfortunately, every boat is a compromise. Using a 24-foot cuddy to do the same things as a 17-foot sportboat may be asking too much of the boat. I dont know the boat, or your usage, but its something to consider. GM
Incredibly strong and ideal for indoor and outdoor applications. Bonds wood, stone, metal, ceramic, foam, glass and much more!
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Q/A ask the experts

ACCESSORIES MAINTENANCE
SHOW YOUR COLORS
SOGGY SITUATION
Q|
Id like to display the American flag on my new boat. I see different boats flying different kinds of flags on the water. Whats the rule? What kind of flag can I fly? David Hanhart, Baltimore
Q|
Thats a good question! U.S. citizens can fly either of two flags on their boat. The first is called an ensign, and thats Old Glory, the 50-star flag that we all recognize. The more nautical flag is the so-called yacht ensign, which shows a fouled anchor and 13 stars. Flags are normally flown from a stern-mounted flagstaff, a backstay or behind a tuna tower, and set at 8 a.m. and taken down at sunset. SK
I use the space inside my center console for stowing gear wet clothes, lines and fenders, fishing gear, you name it. Problem is, it all generally ends up sitting in a puddle of water, and the compartment stays damp. Ive thought of putting in some wooden grating are there any alternatives? Dwight Whitaker, Bradenton, Fla.
Take a look at modular vinyl decking. Kendall Products makes Dri-Dek, a heavy-duty vinyl gridlike decking that comes in 12inch, interlocking panels that can be cut and put together to fit just about any size space. The no-maintenance panels keep gear about a half-inch or more off the ground, which lets water drain off and evaporate more easily. And, there are four colors to choose from. SK
Before PWG
Increases speed up to 46%* After PWG Increases fuel economy up to 57%* Reduced drag Improved handling Made of FRP composite material * Independent test done by Pontoon & Deck Boat Magazine 18' Patented pontoon boat with 60 hp Easy to install 684 lbs of additional lift w/Coast Guard approved floatation foam
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1-888-311-8313
bonehead blunders
Mistakes Nobody Should Make

Our resident mechanic talks about the disturbingly dim-witted decisions boaters make about their boat engines BY GRID MICHAL
Sir, Yes Sir!
BONEHEAD BLUNDER: Playing drill
sergeant with the technician
WHOS THE BONEHEAD: A colonel

(USA-Ret)
BONEHEAD RATING: 4 WHAT HAPPENED: Colonels are an interesting species. Theyve gone far enough up the ranks to have authority, but some just cant seem to relinquish any of it. Therefore, the rainy day I was working on a recently retired colonels small Boston Whaler sticks in my mind. His grandkids were on the way, so getting the Evinrude running was a priority, today! (I
fought in the rain, you can work in the rain!) In the squished stern of this 13foot Whaler sat all 225 pounds of yours truly trying to wiggle the carburetor off an electric-start 25 hp engine. Under the Bimini, ensuring I kept up the pace, sat the colonel. When I finally accepted the fact there was no way I could wiggle the carb off without partially removing the starter and throttle linkage, the colonel moved in to reassure me that yes, I could remove the carb without removing anything else (Ive devised a way to do that, but it involves modification the first time the carbs off, so its a quick job the
BONEHEAD RATING SYSTEM:

1 : Acceptably assinine 2: Slightly slow 3: Distinguished dunce 4: Massively moronic 5: Seek mental help
next time its removed). As he moved aft to join me where there was no room, the boat listed sharply to port. The Bimini disgorged a huge puddle of water onto the colonels head and his brand-new $5,000 hearing aids, which promptly shorted with a screech that could be heard a mile away. He grabbed his head, lost his
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M AG A Z I N E
bonehead blunders
balance and in the arc he created on the way into the creek, lost his wallet, keys, smokes and Zippo. I am ashamed to admit I gave thought before I actually performed the rescue.
LESSON LEARNED: If you know you dont know something and hire somebody to do it for you, fer cryin out loud, let him do his job without interference.
Woulda, Shoulda, Coulda

BONEHEAD BLUNDER: Not taking
the mechanics advice
Full
product specifications, features and photos Order a brochure or catalog Find a retail outlet or dealer Promotions, discounts and incentives
WHOS THE BONEHEAD: A friend,

almost 90 years old
BONEHEAD RATING: 1 WHAT HAPPENED: Normally Id give anyone who lets a boat sink a 10 rating, but I figure when Im 90, my heirs will have been putting flowers on my grave for 20 years. This gentleman has five boats, a pier that goes out 100 yards to deep water, a full-sized Kubota tractor, chain saws, a garden you get the idea: Hes really a 30-year-old who lied on his birth certificate. We were all set for a major snowstorm. His 19-foot Aquasport self-bailer bobbed merrily at the end of the pier, moored by enough lines to make Charlottes Web look like a lame attempt at weaving. I gave him a call and told him I thought he ought to bring it alongside the pier, stern to the shore, as close to the shore as he could get it. Id be glad to help. The boats a selfbailer! Why the hell should I move it? Oh. He might not have had his coffee. So I let the subject drop, we chatted, hung up and went back to battening down. Twenty-three hours, 11 minutes later, the phone rang: Grid! The Aquasport sank! I hate it when Im right. So off I went to survey the situation. The boat was
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Just fill out the card found on page 33 and drop it in the mail or Fax it to 949-660-6172.
bonehead blunders
at a 45-degree angle, as under as you can get. Water temperature was 40, winds howling out of the northwest at 30, waves 2 to 3 feet, snow just a-boiling. The Chesapeake was hardly hospitable. It wouldnt do that we could go inside where it was warm to discuss why the boat sank. We had to discuss it at the end of the pier, shortening my life by another five years. Remember the 18 inches of snow from last night? As soon as those self-bailing scuppers got blocked, the boat ceased to be a self-bailer. You probably had another 1,500 to 2,000 pounds of snow in there. As soon as the transom went under, it was a done deal. Three days later we got a break in the weather, raised the boat, got the engine running and hauled it out for repair.
LESSON LEARNED: The moment you think youre ahead of Mother Nature, shell smack you upside the head so hard your ears will ring for a week. If a mechanic tells you your boat will sink, please believe him. Hes been there, done that.
found their hideaway. We went down to the pier and his family boat was there, all shined up. He told me they had gone fishing that morning (heathens!), then went to move the boat and it wouldnt start. I went to the helm and turned the ignition key to On. The voltmeter jumped to 12. Good. Then I turned
the key to Start. No movement on the gauge. Then I pulled the shift lever about 1 8 inch farther back, engaged the neutral safety switch and the engine started right up. He looked at me: How much? I looked at the kids running berserk and said, I wont tell if you dont. The Doctor and Nurse headed
THE FIRST DOCK OF ITS KIND... THE LAST DOCK YOU WILL EVER NEED.
Doh!
BONEHEAD BLUNDER:
Forgetting why the boat has gauges
WHOS THE BONEHEAD:

A harried grandfather
BONEHEAD RATING: 3 WHAT HAPPENED: As a grandfather myself, I have a special understanding for grandfathers whose kids and grandkids pressure them into having the boat up and running perfectly when they arrive for vacation. Memorial Day Sunday was no exception. On our way home from church we got an anguished call from such a granddad, saying his boat had quit and he had to be towed in; could we help? You could hear 10,000 screaming meemies behind him. So, the Motor Nurse and I headed way up-country to find this lost soul. After an hour or so we finally
EZ Dock Works for You...
Patented
SO YOU HAVE MORE TIME TO ENJOY
1-800-654-8168
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BoatingWorld.com
bonehead blunders
home for hot coffee and artery-cloggers, out the cost of the morning but feeling really good about having helped someone who needed help.
LESSON LEARNED: Use your gauges that tell you what your engines doing or not doing.
City Slicker
BONEHEAD BLUNDER: Letting
paranoia get the best of you
WHOS THE BONEHEAD: A city client BONEHEAD RATING: 5 WHAT HAPPENED: I received a call from a panicked customer who said his small cuddy had quit running just days before the family was to descend on his summer home. I went to the residence, performed some basic checks and then pumped 5 gallons of water from the tank. I guess they live differently in
the city, because the customers first thought was that somebody had filled his tank with water. No matter what I tried to tell him about the previous owner perhaps building up ethanol-induced water over the years, or not having a water separator, or the fact that he lived in a neighborhood where retribution for a missed cookout wasnt a possibility, he just wouldnt listen. He reported the problem to the police and his insurance company, which meant even though Id dealt with both for many years I still had to go through my premises as to the waters source. I finally got it cleared, ran the engine and all was well. In the meantime, the customer added more fuel and a locking gas cap. The following weekend he had to be towed in. I went back there (this is a 45-minute trip each way), removed the carburetor and found little
orange balls rolling around in the bowl. What do you get when you mix ethanol fuel with non-ethanol fuel with MBTE? Little orange balls in the fuel when it sits. So as a courtesy, I cleaned the carburetor, reinstalled it, retested the boat and as I was returning to the boat lift, I noticed what Id missed earlier: a new motion-detector with huge floodlights. Maybe the midnight prowler is now carrying cans of MBTE. With the number of wildlife where he lives, Ill guarantee you every osprey, otter, heron and gull that sets those lights glaring into his neighbors homes is going to result in a community letter.
LESSON LEARNED: Hopefully hell learn that he lives in a fine area and paranoia isnt necessary, just a little boat knowledge. Did I learn anything? Yes, but thats best kept to myself. BW
QUALITY YOU CAN
Whatever what your service or Maintenance needs may be Mallory Marine has the right part, at the right price with unparalleled quality and performance so youll be spending less money on repairs and more time on the water. Make sure you specify Mallory Marine Products on your next service or repair. Mallory Marine has over 80 years of heritage as the #1 brand of ignition and offers thousands of quality engine and drive parts for every brand of Outboards, Sterndrives, and Inboards. All Mallory Marine products are backed by our 2-Year Warranty
TRUST
Learn more at
www.mallorymarine.com
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BOATS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Apex Marine, Inc. (989) 681-4300 Cobalt 296 (620) 325-2653 Craig Catamaran Corporation (877) 999-4228 FourWinns SL262 (800) 368-7946 Malibu Boats (209) 383-7469 PlayCraft Boats (573) 765-3265 Premier 250 Intrigue (800) 815-6392 Smoker Craft, Inc./Starcraft (866) 719-7873 Splendor Boats Stingray Tracker Tahoe (260) 352-2835 (843) 383-4507 (888) 487-2253 3 46-48 66 38-40 CV2, 1 7 34-36 25 67 CV4 42-44
32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41
Mallory Marine Products (216) 688-8300 Mallory Marine Products (216) 688-8300 MaryKate Aluminex Clean & Shine (800) 556-5074 Megaware Keelguard (800) 292-9835 Megaware Keelguard (800) 292-9835 Merco Marine (800) 396-3726 Mercury VesselView (920) 929-5040 Mothers Marine Wash'n Wax (714) 891-3364 MyGripLight - PenGrip LLC (610) 838-2842 Pontoon Water Glide, Inc. (888) 311-8313 Raymarine ST70 (603) 881-5200 Salt-Away (888) 725-8292 SeaDek Swim Platform Traction Pads (321) 632-4466 Shurhold Brite Wash (772) 287-1313
57 32 58 65 59 58 68 66 70 63 17 64 59 65 49 28 16 59 49 58 70 71 72 60 61 62
Volvo Penta 7-Inch Display (757) 436-2800 Waterproof Power Tender Plus - Deltran (877) 456-7901 West Marine (800) 262-8464 West Marine Pure Oceans Citrus Bilge Cleaner (800) 262-8464
17 37 15 59
West System Inc. / Gougeon Brothers, Inc. (866) 937-8797 65 West System Inc. / Gougeon Brothers, Inc. (866) 937-8797 26 Xtreme Sport Spark Plug - Autolite (800) 890-2075 Yamaha Command Link Plus (800) 88-YAMAHA 49 16
800 Send me all boats literature
Yamaha Motor Corp. - Generator Division (800) 88-YAMAHA 9
802 Send me all gear & accessories literature
DOCKS & MOORINGS

15 16 EZ Dock Inc. (800) 654-8168 31 42 43 44 45 Innovative Marine Tech/Touchless Boat Co (877) 679-2217 28
SERVICES
ACE Recreational Marine Insurance (215) 640-2609 Boat Angel Markel Corp. (800) 227-2643 (800) 236-9283 13 70 23
801 Send me all docks & moorings literature
GEAR & ACCESSORIES

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Babe's Boat Bright Spray Wax (888) 422-2374 Boatlife / Life Industries (800) 382-9706 BoatLIFE Boat Cleaner (800) 382-9706 Bow-to-Beach Ladder - St. Croix Marine (612) 865-8339 Clymer Publishing / Penton Media (800) 262-1954 Cook Manufacturing Corp. (800) 654-3697 CRC Industries, Inc. (800) 556-5074 E-Sea Teardrop (888) 335-3732 Evinrude I-Command Digital Guages (847) 689-7090 46 59 47 32 48 59 49 49 50 29 51 66 52 8 37 17 53 54 55 56
803 Send me all services literature
Spray Nine Green Marine Multi-Purpose Cleaner (631) 777-7655 58 Star brite Sea Safe Boat Wash (800) 327-8583 SternDrive Engineering (813) 925-7127 Survival Products, Inc. (954) 966-7329 Suzuki SMIS Round Displays (714) 996-7040 SV44 - Underwater Lights USA (954) 760-4447 Tallon Receiver System (866) 616-4063 Teleflex Multi-Function Fixed LCD (217) 324-9400 The Durabak Company (303) 690-7190 Thetford Marine Multi-Purpose Stain Remover (800) 543-1219 TRAC Ecological GreenClean Boat Soap (954) 987-2722 58 69 70 17 37 37 80 16 68 59 59 81 82
TOWING
Dodge Ram 75 76 77 78 (800) 4 ADODGE 72, CV3 19 19 4, 5 19 Launch Alert - Quality Mark Inc. (651) 462-2513 Magna-Chock - T-H Marine (256) 772-0164 Master Lock (800) 464-2088 Parkit360 Motorized Trailer Dolly (613) 226-5517
804 Send me all towing literature
WATERSPORTS EQUIPMENT
Barf Ball - O'Brian (800) 662-7436 22 Mi-Sport VBT Waterproof Headset +44 (0) 115-845-7046 22 WaterMat - H2O Pod, Inc. (888) 462-8386 22
Flatwater Inc / Sharkhide Metal Protectant (618) 624-4091 68 GOLIGHT, Inc. Gorilla Glue (308) 278-3131 (800) 966-3458 70 27
805 Send me all watersports equipments literature
BoatingWorld.com
tested Premier 250 Intrigue
Triple Play
o many, the phrase performance pontooning might seem as much of an oxymoron as jumbo shrimp, but to owners of the triple-tube Premier 250 Intrigue, its a fact. A very luxurious and stylish fact.
BY ALAN JONES
Unique Factor
Probably the most interesting feature weve seen on a pontoon all year is the 11-foot power Bimini top that comes standard on the Premier 250 Intrigue. With the push of a key fob controller, it deploys in just 11 seconds, so going under a bridge or putting her to bed in the boathouse wont have you wrestling with bulky pins or connectors. Premiers engineers tested this top up to 50 mph, and if you are ripping into a stout headwind at full speed you can use the additional support legs that will keep it stable in any-
thing short of a hurricane. Boat designers are smart; they know the person who buys the boat usually drives it, so the captain gets the best seat in the house. But on the 250 Intrigue, three people get the best seat with two more Flexsteel 10-Star captains seats in the bow. The armrests are independently adjustable, so when you recline you can keep them level, and they have inner springs for enhanced posterior comfort. Theres burl-wood trim at the helm, and the Calypso gauges add style and function with a low-current draw and a low-light setting for preserving nighttime vision. The only nonergonomic feature is that the throttle is a little too far forward.
Performance
Our test boat is rigged with Premiers cure for the average pon-
toon: the PTX Performance Package. This three-tube setup features 27inch outer tubes and a massive 36inch middle tube that has a 12-inch flat section on the bottom for incredible lift. The outer tubes have lifting strakes on the insides, which also help the Intrigue get out of the hole quickly. If you didnt look at the engine and just went on performance alone, you would think we were packing a massive amount of horsepower on the transom. Despite being rated for up to 300 hp, our 25-footer is powered by Suzukis DF200 four-stroke. Time to plane is an incredible 2.6 seconds, and we blazed to 30 mph in just 6.4 seconds. Top speed is just shy of 40 mph (39.6 ).The Intrigue rides noticeably higher in the water than other pontoons, and the Suzuki trims up far enough to lift the forward section air-
Dillon Donnelly
PREMIER 250 INTRIGUE
borne for better fuel economy.
Handling
The PTX package with the 36-inch center tube (theres also a 30-inch option) does some amazing things for the Intrigues handling. It turns in a most un-pontoon-like manner with a pronounced inward lean. This allowed us to crank it hard over during our test and slice and dice like we were driving a well-designed sportboat. PTX hull designer Fred Cotey found that when the outer pontoons have lifting strakes on both sides, turning is inhibited and the boat corners flat. With the giant center tube and strakes on the insides of the outer tubes only, maneuverability is taken to a whole new level. Because the PTX-equipped Premier rides so high and the bow can be raised out of the water by trimming, its rough-water performance is outstanding. Weve tested this tube setup in a nasty 2-foot chop, and it glided over the surface. Theres so much lift that even in heavy seas, you would have to work hard to bury the bow.
and if you can manage to fill it up with skis and paraphernalia, you definitely have some sort of shoppingrelated issue.
Preferred Setup
When you order the Intrigue, youre already saying, Load it with luxury. The power Bimini comes standard, as do the triple captains chairs, which will come in handy if you decide to fish it up with accessories such as rod holders. The Intrigue family gives you a choice of four sizes from 24 to 31 feet long and numerous pontoon choices depending on your lifestyle: from 27inch twins to the triple-tube PTX setup with the large 36-inch center tube, which is highly recommended. The larger models have more bow seating and more storage, which is easily accessible thanks to Premiers patented E-Z hinge system that opens inward and stays open for easy loading. To preserve passenger space (the 250 is rated for up to 20 passengers) theres a standard low-profile cockpit table with one pedestal, but it tends to wobble a bit. Our test boat is dressed up in black and features faux teak decks fore and aft that really pop. One killer option that will entertain the kids for hours is the inflatable slide. If youre bringing kids along, selecting the 9.5-gallon porcelain head is a good call, as is the optional changing room vanity with a mirror and a paper towel rack. Premier has enough options for owners to create a one-off design to match their boating style, such as the complete canvas enclosure for overnighting or cool-weather cruising. One option that is a must if you are on a busy lake and want to avoid having your boat pound against the dock is called Sea Legs. This system hydraulically lifts your boat several feet above the surface of the water on four independently articulating legs like a giant robot transformer. Its also perfect when docking at old fixed piers that are too high for the young and old to manage.
S P E C I F I C AT I O N S
Length Beam Capacity Dry Weight Fuel Capacity

PERFORMANCE
25 ft. 8 ft., 6 in. 20 people 3,700 lbs. 50 gals.
mph rpm dBA Peak Cruise Time to Plane Time to 30 mph

39.6 6300 91 23 4000 78 2.6 sec. 6.4 sec.
POWER
Best Uses
Premier lists the 250 Intrigue as one of its Luxury models, and its not hard to see why. This is the quintessential boat for cruising around, checking out the scenery and spending time with friends. The standard Sony stereo has both an iPod dock and an MP3 input with six Kicker speakers, but the optional subwoofer really gives it some depth. The changing room/head compartment is the easiest in the industry to lift up, requiring just one finger. Seating comfort is enhanced by soft Nano-Block vinyl, which is impregnated with a UV- and mildew/moldresistant formula that allows Premier to offer a seven-year warranty. For skiers, an optional ski tow bar encircles the outboard and is high enough for wakeboarders. This year the tow bars been beefed up to be no-wiggle strong and is even removable. Ski storage is in the center tube
Test Max hp Cylinders Displacement Weight WOT Range Base Price
Suzuki DF200 four-stroke 300 V-6 3.6L 580 lbs. 5500-6100 rpm $65,963
VA L U E - A D D E D S TA N D A R D F E AT U R E S Power Bimini top, Berber carpet, sink and electric spigot, three Flexsteel 10-Star seats M U S T- H AV E O P T I O N S
PTX Performance pontoons, livewell/cooler, Sea Legs lift, canvas enclosure
BUILDER
Premier Marine Inc. pontoons.com
$ FINANCING:
$528/month w/15% down and 7.75% interest for 15 years
BoatingWorld.com
tested Premier 250 Intrigue
Owner Feedback
Andy and Jodi Fritz, St. Cloud, Minn.
PURCHASED AT RIVERVIEW SPORTS AND MARINE, ELKS RIVER, MINN.
What We Liked:
Beautiful styling and black color Outstanding performance with PTX package Built-in Sea Legs hydraulic lift Comfortable seating with lots of storage
What We Would Change:

The reason we bought the Premier Intrigue was that it had everything we wanted.
Why We Bought It:

We had previously bought a smaller
Premier pontoon with a 115 hp engine but wanted more room and better performance. We went back to Riverview Sports and Marine, where we bought our first one and have always received great service, and loved the Intrigue.We have a place on Lake Osakis, which is beautiful. At 11 miles long, its a good-sized lake that can occasionally get rough, but with the PTX package our Premier handles it well. We mainly like to cruise and often invite family and friends to come along and
have a floating wine and cheese party. My friends are amazed at the handling and performance of our Intrigue; it banks and turns like a speedboat. BW
IN BRIEF:
FEATURES
1 Twin Flexsteel 10-Star captains chairs in the
bow are a premium standard feature
2 The helm comes standard with full instrumentation and a Sony MP3, iPod-ready stereo
3 The 250 Intrigues pop-up changing room is

incredibly easy to deploy
4 The newly designed tow bar that encircles the

200 hp Suzuki is tall and wiggle-free
5 With a low-profile cockpit table, moving

about the cockpit is easy
3 3
gear essentials
By Kristal Seeden
Lap of Luxury
E-Sea Teardrop | $59.95$119.95 Created by a lifelong fisherman who was fed up with being sore after tournaments in rough waters, ESeaRider bean bags protect riders from the constant pounding associated with navigating choppy seas. The bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the Teardrop model is a best seller, especially for combating fatigue during tournaments. Constructed of high-quality marine-grade vinyl, E-SeaRider covers resist weather elements, UV rays, salt, mold, mildew, tears and cracks. They are also customizable with 17 color options. E-SeaRider; (888) 335-3732; marinebeanbags.com
Sea Vision by Underwater Lights USA
The Shining
SV44 | $512$1,212 The underwater lighting trend began as a luxury aftermarket feature for owners of mega-yachts and quickly gained popularity during the past decade. Industry pioneer Underwater Lights USA has released its first offering to the smaller boat market: the SV44 trim tab and surface-mount LED lights. Deceptively powerful, each 7.79-inch mount encases a six-LED array in an oval, thermally conductive plastic housing. An innovative convex-shaped lens creates greater light dispersion for a dynamic glow from below. The trim tab kit includes two mounts. Underwater Lights USA; (954) 760-4447; seavision.com Circle 51 on reader service card, page 33
Fully Charged
Waterproof Power Tender Plus | $125.95 A fully charged battery is a must on your pre-trip checklist if you dont want to end up stranded. The Waterproof Power Tender Plus is a prime choice for most watercraft, offering a choice of 12 volts at 5 amps or 24 volts at 2.5 amps. The tender features a four-part charging system, including a maintenance cycle to prevent overcharging, a concern when trickle charging. Maintaining a batterys charge extends the batterys life, which means less money spent on replacements. Deltran; (877) 4567901; batterytender.com
Wide Receiver
Tallon Receiver System | $74.99$119.99 for two receivers Save space without sacrificing style using Tallon Marines innovative and versatile Receiver System. Mount the receivers which come in black, white, stainless steel, sealed, RIB and powered varieties virtually anywhere on board. Once installed, each receiver acts as a sturdy base for a dynamic range of accessories, including champagne flute holders, swim ladders, anchor lights, TV mounts, bait boards and rod holders. Receivers are rated to hold 1,320 pounds and come in two- and six-packs. Accessories can be swapped out instantly to support fishing, diving and entertaining activities. Tallon Marine; (866) 616-4063; tallonmarine.com
37
BoatingWorld.com
tested Four Winns SL262
Winn Power
Four Winns SL262
eeing the Four Winns SL262 at this years Miami Boat Show was a pleasant surprise. The storied company from Michigan was involved in the Genmar bankruptcy at a time when Four Winns was really starting to gain traction with some of the most innovative designs in boating. Acquired by Platinum Equity, a company with $3.5 billion in assets, Four Winns seems poised to make the next few years something special for those who believe that good news comes in fours.
BY ALAN JONES
Unique Factor
The SL262s exterior design is striking in its angular muscularity, and it comes with accoutrements not usually seen on this side of the Atlantic. When was the last time you saw a dash that was made of hand-stitched
leather, or mahogany on the dash and steering wheel? Its not all form without function either, with a dance floor-sized swim platform that sits low to the water and is surfaced in grippable rubber matting. The flat-nosed bow with a boarding ladder also features a platform with the same nonslip material that makes bow boarding a non-YouTube blooper moment. The black leather dash does a superb job of eliminating windshield reflections, but be sure to keep up on maintenance, as dark colors are prone to cracking. Theres a lot of chrome on the wood wheel, which can reflect the sun, but because it comes with standard tilt, its not a problem. The driver and co-pilots ComfortRide Plus seats are extra wide and feature flip-up bolsters for abovewindshield viewing. The drivers seat is electronically adjustable, and the
companion seat can swivel and lock so its back is parallel with the gunwale, expanding the cockpits massive L-lounge, or it can do a 180 to do double duty as a ski observer seat. Gauge visibility and accessory switching are first rate, but the optional Garmin GPSmap 421 on our test boat sits pretty low and to the left of the drivers line of sight. Fortunately the screen was easily readable from an angle, unlike most others.
Performance
Sitting snugly in the engine compartment is MerCruisers newest master blaster, the 430 hp 8.2L V-8, which features a catalytic converter for greatly reduced emissions. With this engine comes the DTS digital throttle, which gives drivers superfine control for dialing in the perfect speed. Throttle response was
FOUR WINNS SL262
excellent at every range but especially out of the hole, where we got on plane in 4.8 seconds and reached 30 mph in less than 10 seconds. Our best-feeling cruise speed was at 37 mph; the similar-looking SmartCraft tach and speedometer were seemingly in sync, as we were running at 3700 rpm. At cruise we emitted a quiet 84 decibels.
Handling
Although the SL262 is a beefy, solid-feeling boat that weighs 5,590 pounds, we were impressed by its sporty handling. Not only was our ride smooth in the confused shipping channel thanks to the 20-degree deadrise hull, but we felt well protected with the deep cockpit and lack of side-to-side roll. Four Winns uses the Stable-Vee Split Chine hull, which starts as a single chine aft and splits into two chines as it goes forward. The outer chines did an incredible job of directing spray downward and contributed to the hulls lift, giving us a high and dry ride. For cool weather cruising, theres a clear acrylic dam, similar to the transom gate, to block off the wind into the cockpit. Four Winns even has a heater option. Yep, theyre made in Michigan all right. Cornering was extremely flat and responsive enough that drivers might seek out strings of crab pots to practice their slalom ability. Bowrise on takeoffs was virtually a non-event thanks to the after-pods in the hull that create lift during launch but dont drag in the water when on plane.
after a run or swim. If you choose a MerCruiser engine with Digital Throttle and Shift, you can add the Smart Tow cruise control system that controls the rate of acceleration and gives drivers precise speed control. Volvo Penta fans get the slightly less-featured counterpart called Tow Mode. One of the best seats in the house is the aft lounger with a seat bottom that extends to convert from a couch to a sun lounge. In the cockpit, an optional side-mounted table can be ordered in teak for a classy look. Theres even wood in the head compartment, where you can gain extra headroom by raising the port-side console.

PERFORMANCE
26 ft., 6 in. 8 ft., 6 in. 14 people 5,590 lbs. 75 gals.

53.2 5000 92 37 3700 84 4.8 sec. 9.8 sec.
Preferred Setup
Four Winns gives SL262 owners a fully equipped boat before adding a single option. Freebies that are usually options include a Sure-Load trailer for road trips, snap-in carpeting and the real wood wheel and dash accents. Four Winns blinged it up with a polished stainless steel bow scuff plate and windshield header. Trim tabs lead the must-have option list, along with the stereo upgrade that adds a subwoofer for extra thump. Although you can dress up the SL262 with items such as a real teak swim platform and bow boarding step, sticking with the lower maintenance standard rubber mats is probably the correct play. Upgrading to the new Florentine tan upholstery also gets you snap-in carpet that mimics a teak sole. In most cases we recommend engines in the higher horsepower range, but this boat has an efficientenough hull to not need 430 hp to push it. The standard engines are either a 320 hp 5.7L Volvo Penta or MerCruiser 377. Both have catalytic converters and should yield a top speed around 50 mph for about $7,000 less than the new 8.2L. But if you opt for Quick & Quiet side-hull exhaust, the big, bad one does sound pretty sweet.
POWER
Test MerCruiser 8.2L MAG H.O. Max hp 430 hp Cylinders V-8 Displacement 8.2L Weight 1,080 lbs. WOT Range 4600-5000 rpm Base Price w/430 hp MerCruiser 8.2L H.O.
$90,695
VA L U E - A D D E D S TA N D A R D F E AT U R E S Transom shower, gelcoat color and stripe, six pull-up cleats, wood wheel and dash accents M U S T- H AV E O P T I O N S
Side-mount cockpit table, trim tabs, freshwater sink, pumpout head, docking lights
BUILDER
Best Uses
The hull design and heft of this boat are good news for wakeboarders, because with a little up-trim at 20 mph, we plowed up a nice ramp for hurling riders airborne. There are even several tower options to choose from and a huge in-floor ski locker. Reboarding is easy with a deepwater swim ladder that is angled and has wide steps. The standard transom shower is a nice touch for spritzing off
Four Winns fourwinns.com
$ FINANCING:
BoatingWorld.com
tested Four Winns SL262
Owner Feedback
Rex and Sheli Vanderlinde, plus Jennifer, age 14, Muskegon, Mich.
PURCHASED AT HALLS SPORT CENTER, MUSKEGON, MICH.
What we liked:
Abundant comfortable seating upholstered in soft vinyl Attractive design with classy touches like real wood wheel and trim Huge swim platform that seems to muffle engine noise Easy trailering during road trips
Why we bought it:

This is the fourth Four Winns weve owned, and its also our favorite. It performs better than the 26-foot Horizon and is a real attention-getter. Everywhere we go people are always checking it out and telling us how much they like it.We bring our friends along and cruise while Jennifer and her friends go tubing.We like to check out the waterfront restaurants or pull up to a
What we would change:

The head compartment is not very deep even with the expandable roof, and the tucked-away cockpit sink isnt userfriendly.
beach and hop out. Our last long trip was to Torch Lake in Northern Michigan, which is very scenic. BW
IN BRIEF:
FEATURES
1 Bow filler cushions turn the area in front of
the windshield into a giant playpen
2 Captains throne adjusts electronically, looks

good and delivers great support
3 One-of-a-kind helm features a real wood

wheel and dash
4 Subwoofer option makes the SL262s sound

system pop
5 Stern walk-through is kid-friendly with a clear

acrylic transom door
coast guard CO Poisoning
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Avoiding Common Mistakes Can Save Lives
BY LOUIS NOVAK, U.S. COAST GUARD BOATING SAFETY DIVISION
O
USCG
CHECK YOUR BOAT

Make sure all exhaust hose ends are double clamped and securely in place. Look for exhaust leaking from exhaust system components, indicated by rust and/or black streaking, water leaks, or corroded or cracked fittings. Inspect rubber exhaust hoses for burned or cracked sections. Confirm that water flows from the exhaust outlet when the engines and generator are started. Listen for any change in exhaust sound that could indicate an exhaust component failure. Schedule a vessel safety check.
ne of the appeals of boating is the freedom of the open water, the escape from the daily grind. Its easy to unplug from stress. Unfortunately, its also easy to unplug from important safety precautions. Several common boating scenarios are actually potentially fatal due to the high risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas produced by the burning of any carbon-based fuel. It is invisible and has no taste or smell. Carbon monoxide from the exhaust pipes of inboard engines, outboard engines and generators can build up inside and outside boats in areas near exhaust vents, such as the swim platform. People should never congregate or swim in these areas when the motor or generator is operating. Blockage of exhaust outlets can cause carbon monoxide to accumulate in the cabin and cockpit area of a boat, even when hatches, windows, portholes and doors are closed. Boaters should avoid anchoring in areas where outlets could be blocked.
Exhaust from other boats is another serious danger. A boat that is docked, beached or anchored alongside another boat is vulnerable to carbon monoxide intrusion from its neighbors in the cabin and cockpit. Backdrafting, otherwise known as the station wagon effect, often occurs when a boat is operating at a high bow angle, traveling under 4 knots, or has been improperly loaded. This also may cause carbon monoxide to accumulate inside the cabin, cockpit and bridge even when protective coverings are used and the boat is under way. Teak surfing an activity where a person holds onto the swim deck while the boat is under way can be fatal, as can any other watersport that puts the skier less than 20 feet from the back of the boat. Knowing how to spot and avoid dangerous situations can help save lives. Boaters should do their part to educate others about common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning. Too many people have died needlessly.
Educate Yourself to Educate Others

Carbon monoxide is a quick and silent killer. It is colorless and odorless. Circulating fresh air and staying away from exhaust are the best ways to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Experts recommend installing marine-rated carbon monoxide
detectors to alert boaters when the CO concentration on board is too high. Life jackets save lives. Many who are overcome by carbon monoxide fumes slip silently beneath the water. Fellow boaters often report that a person was there one second and gone the next. Life jackets provide a better chance of being saved even if the person is overcome by carbon monoxide.
BoatingWorld.com
USCG
tested Tahoe 228
On Deck
Tahoe 228
BY ALAN JONES
ass Pro Shops can be a very dangerous place to visit. You walk in innocently enough, looking to buy some fishing line or a life jacket, then bam! You keep spotting things that you just have to have. My advice? Stay away from the boat section, lest you happen upon the new Tahoe 228 deckboat, because youll want it.
Unique Factor
Waiting for me at the Matheson Hammock Park boat ramp on the western edge of Biscayne Bay was Chris Castellon from the Miami Bass Pro Shops, who was launching our test boat. The designers at Tahoe definitely have this styling thing down and even designed an optional color-matching, dual-axle trailer with custom chrome mag wheels. Youll probably park this
eye-candy package in your driveway, even if it will fit in the garage. As with the Tracker Marine pontoon division where tremendous upgrades have occurred in recent years the plush seating is more comfortable than ever and has overstuffed cockpit settees and layback bowrider seats with armrests. Score a few more style points for the seven artsy stainless steel pull-up cleats. Bass Pro Shops prices its models down to the bone and uses a No Haggle, No Hassle program, which could be a disappointment for those adept at beating down the price of a sombrero in Cancun. But the Tahoe 228, with its we really mean it price of $34,495 when paired with the 220 hp 5.0 MerCruiser sterndrive package, gives buyers the peace of mind that they are not paying more than their neighbor.
Performance
Theres plenty of power packed in the fully finished, but slightly tight engine compartment with the Tahoerecommended 300 hp MerCruiser MAG 350 ($41,410), which is mated to a one-prop Bravo One outdrive. The egg crate foam at the top of the engine hatch does a decent job of knocking down motor noise we idled out at just 62 decibels. Biscayne Bay can get shallow in spots, but with a 20-inch draft this wasnt a problem for our test boat. We got out of the hole in 3.7 seconds with little bowrise and accelerated smoothly to 30 mph in 8 seconds flat. I always try to estimate the top speed of a boat and usually come within 1 mph of the final result, but I missed the boat on this one with a guess of 52 miles per hour. Our actual top speed was 48.4 mph, but the
TA H O E 2 2 8
reason for my over-optimism actually proved to be a plus.
Handling
What I had failed to factor in was that our Tahoe sports a 20-degree deadrise rather than the usual deckboat-flat, V-in-the-teens configuration. While it might have shaved a couple of mph off our top end, when we got to open water, the benefit of the PowerGlide hull was noticeable with a soft ride in the chop. We found several happy cruising speeds, but at 38 mph, we motored along at 4000 rpm, which seemed to please our MerCruiser as it ran quietly at 89 decibels. Driver seating position is ergo-tastic and our view through the curved glass was good, although the white dash showed up in the reflection. Gauge placement is excellent. The wrap-around bucket seat with flip-up bolster gripped well when we whipped the Tahoe around in aggressive turns. The 228 loves to carve, and we nimbly changed directions without sliding out. At the very end of the stops, we noticed that the hull bit a little harder than earlier in the turn, which might get your attention the first time, but it remained stable.
a second captains chair instead of a wrap-around bench seat. But to accommodate it they zapped the large, corner-opening door into the port-side console, which made it easy to access the optional head. The new door that opens toward the console walk-though is OK for kids, but an adult would have to be seriously motivated to enter. Another addition is the stern lounge seat for relaxing between ski sets or hanging at the raft-up. Something you dont often see is twin lockable compartments for valuables in the form of a horizontal glove box to port and an indeck safe in the drivers console.

PERFORMANCE
22 ft., 5 in. 8 ft., 6 in. 12 people 3,950 lbs. 48 gals.
Preferred Setup
Tahoe has avid skiers covered, with the option to add your choice of wakeboard towers from the standard model all the way to the Sony deluxe package that includes Kicker speakers, towermounted coffee cans and a wakeboard rack. For low-point towing theres a standard ski ring, and the aforementioned in-floor lockers will hold your array of boards if you scoot the fishing rods off to the side. Theres an aft rope storage compartment that can also serve as a cooler, giving you three, counting the infloor unit and the portable Igloo under the port bench. This year, all compartments drain overboard rather than into the bilge. Getting back aboard after a run is easier than on most boats thanks to the pair of grabrails bracketing the fold-down swim ladder on the starboard side. But because of the rails, youll find yourself making a point of docking on the port side to avoid passenger stumbles. Besides, thats where the walk-through into the cockpit is located. Tahoe loaded the 228 with standard features such as the color-coordinated Bimini top that has more stout connectors this year. About the only thing other than a trailer and the fishing package you need to add is a freshwater system, snap-in carpeting and a between-console dam curtain if you have a hard time letting go of the boating season when it gets cold.

48.4 5000 94 38 4000 89 3.7 sec. 8.0 sec.
POWER
Test Max hp Cylinders Displacement Weight WOT Range Base Price
MerCruiser 350 MAG MPI 300 hp V-8 5.7L 987 lbs. 4600-5000 rpm w/ MerCruiser 350 MAG MPI $41,410
Best Uses
What do you feel like doing today? The good news is you dont even have to tell the 228; just go and have fun doing whatever strikes your fancy. Deckboats frequently make fishing difficult with barriers such as no storage to keep rods from being snapped by your balance-challenged brotherin-law. Not only does the 228 have under-gunwale storage for two behind a securable hatch, but two of the three in-deck storage compartments connect, giving you a place to hide all those rods you bought on sale at Bass Pro from your spouse. With the optional fishing package, which includes a trolling motor, livewell and fore and aft fishing chairs, you are ready to go fish. This year, Tahoe totally reconfigured the interior to a far sportier layout with
VA L U E - A D D E D S TA N D A R D F E AT U R E S Bimini top, Sirius-ready MP3 stereo, Lowrance depthfinder, 7 designer pull-up cleats M U S T- H AV E O P T I O N S
Trailer, freshwater system, wakeboard tower, fish package, snap-in carpeting
BUILDER
Tahoe tahoe-boats.com
$ FINANCING:
BoatingWorld.com
tested Tahoe 228
Owner Feedback
Lee and Ellen Rodgers, Destin, Fla.
PURCHASED AT BASS PRO SHOPS, DESTIN, FLA.
What We Liked:
Plush, abundant seating Great turning ability Large fuel capacity Smooth ride in choppy water

We dont like the fact that you have to lift the bow boarding ladder to use the anchor.
Why we bought it:

Our idea of fun is to take our two dogs, Lucie and Annie, out in our 228 along with our friends and cruise at sunset or
head to Crab Island, where lots of boaters anchor and walk around to socialize. Before we bought it, we looked at center console fishing boats, but the Tahoe has better seating and is more comfortable. We love to fish for trout, redfish and sheepshead, so we got our Tahoe with the fishing package. Choctawhatchee Bay can get rough and sometimes we cruise into the Gulf of Mexico, but for the 228, its not a problem.BW
IN BRIEF:
FEATURES
1 Gauge placement on the ergonomic helm is
excellent
2 Port-side bench hides a portable Igloo cooler 3 Under-gunwale storage can accommodate
two rods
4 Sporty port-side console houses a lockable

glove box
5 In-deck lockable storage in the drivers console

keeps your valuables safe
seamanship boat handling
Jimmy Fink
Some of the Best Days of the Year

Stay safe while enjoying cool-weather boating
Drink hot liquids and wear plenty of layers to stay warm during winter boating excursions.
BY ZACK THOMAS
or boaters in much of North America, autumn means winterizing and storing the boat and hunkering down for four or five months of holidays, heavy coats and hopefully a boat show or two. Come April or so, theyll be back on the water. difficult or impossible. No matter how strong a swimmer you are in a bathing suit in 70-degree water, dont think for a minute that you can swim well in heavy clothing in 50degree water. Nobody can. A common rule of thumb says that an average, healthy adult has a 50/50 chance of surviving a 50-yard swim in 50-degree water. Think about that for a minute: You can probably throw a rock 50 yards! In other words, actually wearing your PFD becomes more important than ever as the air and water get cooler. Keep in mind that staying warm while youre in the boat is also important. A moving boat has the same chilling effect as wind. A calm, sunny, 55degree fall afternoon effectively drops into the mid-40s when youre cruising at 35 mph in an open boat. So dont skimp on the warm layers, waterproof/windproof shells, gloves and hats. And dont wait until you start feeling chilly to put more clothes on; its far easier to stay warm than to get warm.
Fortunately for the rest of us, autumn is one of the finest times of the year for boating, with crisp, bright days, turning leaves, biting fish and uncrowded lakes. Before we go any further, though, lets all take a moment to collectively feel sorry for those icebound Northeastern and upperMidwestern boaters ... OK, good. The caveat is that some of the same things that make autumn, and even winter in some areas, such a nice time of year for boating also call for an extra measure of preparation and care. That crisp air and the cold water that goes with it makes falls overboard far more dangerous than they are in warmer weather. Perhaps less apparent is the fact that lighter boating traffic means assistance or rescue is typically much slower to arrive than it is at the height of boating season. Any fall overboard in water lower than 60 degrees should be treated as a life-threatening emergency. Not only is hypothermia a danger, but bulky, coolweather clothing can make swimming
If you or your crew do get chilly, opt for hot drinks. In an open boat with no source of external heat, the best way to get warm again is to pile on warm clothes and then pour down warmth in the form of hot coffee, chocolate, cider or whatever other beverage suits your fancy. A hot thermos isnt just pleasant to share on a fall afternoon; it can actually be a safety factor. With reduced boat traffic and possibly the reduced presence of law enforcement and search-and-rescue outfits, chances increase that youll spend a few hours or even a night on your boat in the event of mechanical failure. Pack for that, too. A nice reserve of very warm clothes even blankets and sleeping bags stowed safely in a dry locker or bag is easy to pack and can come in very, very handy. Ultimately, fall and winter can offer some of the best boating days of the year think hot cider and ginger snaps in quiet coves, wary deer materializing along shorelines, waterfront lights winking on in the early dusk, empty reaches that two months ago were frothing with traffic and those days can be enjoyed in perfect safety. They require only a heightened level of caution and a bit of extra preparation. BW
BoatingWorld.com
Jimmy Fink
tested Cobalt 296
Ultimate Weekend Warrior

Cobalt 296
BY ALAN JONES
oat builders have been making bowriders for many decades now. Occasionally youll see a new wrinkle here or there, but the basic template doesnt seem to vary too much. That is, unless youve seen the Cobalt 296, which turns a new page in the bowrider story.
Unique Factor
The designers at Cobalt looked at how other bowrider seating was laid out and basically tossed it out the window. Its as if they moved the indoors outside and have created a motorized alfresco sitting parlor. In the stern are designer pillows, affixed by tracks, clad in all-weather Sunbrella material to yield a casual look usually only seen in salons.
In one available layout, instead of the usual U-lounge setup, the driver and co-pilot have flippable backrests that provide double-wide seats when the crew faces forward. With the backrests flipped forward, they become rearward recliners with roomy storage bins underneath. Our test boat has an optional wet bar behind the captains seat that eliminates the starboard recliner, but the symmetry of twin convertible seats has a look and function thats hard to beat. Forward, the look is unique with a wrap-around lounge that partially circles the bow section, but in front of the captain is a feet-on-the-floor, forward-facing seat. The upholstery is Bentley-esque with a hand-sewn, double-stitched two-tone look.
Performance
The 296 has several vastly different engine schemes, all with one thing in common: Theres not a canine choice in the lineup. This model will most often ship with two engines ranging from twin 300 hp Volvo Pentas or MerCruisers, all the way up to a pair of MerCruisers newest 430 hp 8.2L MAG H.O. V-8s, which come with catalytic converters for vastly reduced emissions. Thats 860 total horsepower for the mathematically challenged, which will push this 28-foot, 5-inch bowrider that weighs 8,740 pounds to a top speed in the mid-60s. Our test boat only has one of these engines, which is anything but anemic. With just one engine, our boat weighs 1,390 pounds less than the twin-engine version, which
C O B A LT 2 9 6
closed the performance gap adequately. Our time to plane was just 4.1 seconds and, thanks to the great midrange powerband, we hit 30 mph in 8.3 seconds. Cobalt has gotten this rig up to 50 mph in its tests, but in less than ideal conditions in a rough Miami shipping channel, we could only squeeze out 48 miles per hour.
Best Uses
Despite its more than 30-foot length (with the extended, swimmer-friendly stern platform), the 296s nimble handling makes this a very serviceable jumbo wakeboard boat. It has a standard ski pylon that inserts into the upper stern deck into a receiver thats covered when not in use. For tubers, theres even a standard air compressor with holder. This Cobalts primary mission is day cruising, and it excels with standard features such as the six-speaker MP3 stereo with an option for two more speakers on the transom for those hanging on the stern rumble seat or taking a dip. In addition to the cockpit recliner(s) theres a pair of stern lounges for parents keeping an eye on swimmers. Families with young kids will love the roomy head compartment complete with Corian countertops, a stainless steel sink and a standard pumpout Porta Potti. Good luck prying the captains hands off the leather-wrapped, real wood wheel that goes beautifully with the rosewood trim option. Our boat has an optional Garmin GPS color display flush mounted front and center, which complements the clean gauge and push-button accessory array.
Handling
Conditions during our sea trial largely resembled those youd find on a large lake, on your day off. Yep, it always happens: You stare out of your office window (people who can afford a big Cobalt dont usually work in cubicles), and all week long its calmer than Gandhi on Valium. But on the morning you plan to go boating, the first sound you hear when you wake up is the wind howling. With 22 degrees of deadrise at the stern and a progressive deadrise hull thats an ultra-sharp, near-60 degrees at the entry, we chose a midrange cruise speed of 35 mph and cleanly sliced and diced our way through the steep 2-plus-footers in style. We could drop down to 15 mph or so by using the Lenco trim tabs and still stay on plane when conditions worsened. Occasionally we launched off a larger wave and slammed home, listening for rattles that werent there. The great ride wasnt too surprising since this Kevlar-reinforced hull design has been identified by J.D. Power and Associates as having the best ride in a mid-sized runabout. Cobalt also won top honors from JD P&A for having the fewest number of owner issues every year since its been giving out the award. Adding to passenger peace of mind is the very high gunwale, perfect for parents of smaller kids who always want to ride up front. However, the gunwale is not flat, so it would be nice to see a patch of nonskid for grip while standing on it to board from the side.
28 ft., 5 in. 9 ft., 5 in. Yacht certified 7,350 lbs. 123 gals.
PERFORMANCE

48 5000 93 28.5 3000 75 4.1 sec. 8.3 sec.
POWER
Single 430 hp MerCruiser 8.2L MAG H.O. Max hp 860 hp Cylinders V-8 Displacement 8.2L Weight 1,080 lbs. WOT Range 4600-5000 rpm Base Price (w/430 hp MerCruiser 8.2L MAG H.O. w/catalytic converter) $138,738 (w/twin 300 hp Volvo Penta 5.7L) $147,079
Test
Preferred Setup
While a single huge engine clearly gets the job done, having twin engines gives you the possibility of adding a joystick docking option for $22,383, regardless of whether you choose MerCruisers Axius or Volvo Pentas system. Several must-have options are the Bimini top, cockpit table with bow and cockpit receivers and trim tabs. For taking the 296 to its properly equipped, elevated station in life is the Captains Call Plus exhaust option. Aft seat and walk-through filler cushions, retractable docklines, a refrigerator and courtesy lights are also available.
VA L U E - A D D E D S TA N D A R D F E AT U R E S Livorsi controls, compass, electric motorbox lift, polished stainless steel header and trim, snap-in carpet, Porta Potti M U S T- H AV E O P T I O N S
Bimini top, trim tabs, transom shower, teak deck trim, cockpit table, refrigerator
BUILDER
Cobalt Boats cobaltboats.com

$ FINANCING:
$1,110/month for 15 years based on 15% down and 7.75% interest for 15 years
BoatingWorld.com
tested Cobalt 296

Owner Feedback
David and Barbara Merrill, Tulsa, Okla.
PURCHASED AT ARROWHEAD BOAT SALES, AFTON, OKLA. (COBALTS NUMBER ONE DEALER IN SALES AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION LAST YEAR)
What we liked:
The quality of the Cobalt brand Deep, kid-friendly cockpit Roomy head compartment Convertible sunpad/rear seating Fantastic handling and performance

Our home lake is pretty deep and when we drop the anchor with the windlass we cant tell how much line has gone out. Maybe a line counter would help.
Why we bought it:

Grand Lake, where we do our
boating, is very large and has a large number of huge cabin cruisers, so it can get pretty rough, but the 296 handles it very well. We love to go cruising and like to raft up with other boaters and just hang out. We take my brother and his kids out tubing, skiing and wakeboarding and our Cobalt performs every task well. We wanted a hassle-free boating experience and our friends recommended Arrowhead, where the service has been fantastic. Brandon, who sold us our boat, wanted to make sure we were happy with it after the sale and he and Thomas have deliv-
ered on that promise. We are Cobalt customers for life, based on our experience with the 296. BW
IN BRIEF:
FEATURES
1 The seating arrangement
feels like a proper salon, with designer cushions and rear-facing loungers. 2 Head compartment is roomy and furnished with Corian countertops. 3 Head is easily accessible for adults of all sizes. 4 Helm features a leatherwrapped real wood wheel.
2 4
gear essentials
Sparks Fly
Xtreme Sport Spark Plug | $5.99$6.99 Reduce the risk of cutting your trip short because of spark plug fouling with Autolites Xtreme Sport Spark Plugs. Designed specifically for two-stroke engines, the plugs incorporate a 0.6millimeter fine wire design for a more focused ignition and a 26-percent-quicker start. Xtreme Sport plugs also give off 21 Autolite; (800) 890percent less hydrocarbon emissions. 2075; autolite.com Circle 63 on reader service card, page 33
Hold the Phone

MyGripLight | $29.95 Boats are notorious places for losing small, important items, such as cell phones and key rings. MyGripLight, a mountable organizer and mini LED light, keeps the essentials within reach. Constructed of durable ABS material to withstand marine elements, MyGripLights clamps firmly grasp anything small pencils, charts, knives, wedding rings (kidding!). Affixed to a flexible arm, its detachable LED light includes both white and red lamps for day and night use. PenGrip LLC; (610) 838-2842; mygriplight.com Circle 40 on reader
service card, page 33
Splash Pad
SeaDek Swim Platform Traction Pads | Prices vary Add a layer of both form and function to your swim platform with a custom SeaDek traction pad. At its base, each pad is constructed with a 5mm-thick layer of EVA foam, followed by a 3mm-thick layer of thermo-embossed, water-resistant foam, to create a shockabsorbent, nonskid surface. SeaDeks durable traction pads are offered for a variety of popular boat models and feature an imprint of your boat manufacturers logo. The pads, which come in several colors, can also be custom ordered with just about any design. SeaDek; (321) 6324466; seadek.com
Step on It
Bow-to-Beach Ladder | $379.95 The Bow-to-Beach Ladder allows boaters who like to stop on shore to step directly onto the sand. Designed to be mounted on 21- to 45-foot cruisers, the accordion-style ladder lowers easily and can be detached and folded into a compact cube for storage. Once offered by another brand, it has been improved and relaunched with heavier-gauge steel and aluminum, a stronger retrieval strap and the option of comfort steps, a St. Croix perfect addition if you have a furry first mate. Marine; (612) 865-8339; stcroixmarineproducts.com
By Kristal Seeden
49
BoatingWorld.com
Great Journey , Great Loop

Boaters traverse scenic waterways of eastern U.S.
BY BOBBYE KENYON
The Great Loop has been described as the

ultimate boating excursion. This mega-mile adventure affords boaters majestic views from waterways that pair the past with the present. The journey varies from 5,000 to 7,500 miles depending on the course you plot and will take you to vibrant cities and quaint towns along a splendid aquatic trail that circumnavigates eastern North America.
Evan and Pookie Davis at Ellis Island Museum in New York Harbor.
>
>
Evan Davis getting some navigation help from Scruffy, the wire-hair fox terrier that made the journey with him aboard his 25-foot Ranger Tug.
feature The Great Loop

The Great Loop Adventure
n individual Great Loop journey typically begins and ends at your homeport. Once youve crossed your wake, youve completed your trip. The itinerary usually charts an early spring course around Florida that heads north to New York City. The route follows the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) along the southeastern seaboard of the U.S., with an array of options to discover, including pristine barrier islands that dot the Georgia and Carolina coasts, incredible river channels and estuaries. Traverse Chesapeake Bay, Delaware Bay and resume on the ICW from Cape May to Manasquan, N.J. From there, its an open 30-mile run across the cobalt-hued Atlantic Ocean to New York Harbor. While the New York to Chicago segment offers a menu of routes that wind along Canadas lock-filled canals and the spectacular vastness of the Great Lakes, timing this leg is a key ingredient in a well-planned excursion. Experienced mariners recommend not venturing on the Erie Canal any earlier than mid-June and avoiding Lake Michigan by September. Loopers cruise north past spectacular New York Harbor, making their way along the Hudson River, past Tarrytown and arriving at the eastern entrance of the Erie Canal with a trio of directional choices as they head toward Chicago. Height restrictions and lock considerations play an important role in this decision-making process. A less popular, although direct, course is the Erie Canal to Lake Erie, then up through Lake Huron to the timeless beauty of Mackinac Island. Traveling along the east side of Lake Michigan offers the best passage to the Windy City. From Chicago, this Great Loop takes a southerly course traveling down the Illinois River to the Mississippi, winding up on the Ohio and Tennessee rivers and eventually the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway. The journey continues down to Mobile, Ala. and merges with the ICW going east to Carrabelle, Fla. Via the ICW, you can take a Fort Myers voyage and cruise the Okeechobee Waterway across to Stuart (on Floridas east coast), or you can make the southernmost passage to the Florida Keys around the tip of the state and return north to Stuart. If you dont have the luxury of time to enjoy the entire journey, you can experience just a segment or side trip to one of the many stunning river or lake destinations. Among the favorite river outings are the St. Johns River with its picturesque vistas of Floridas not-so-tropical locales, and the Cumberland River, which showcases historical sites paired with a spectacular Nashville skyline against the backdrop of the regions natural beauty. Favored lake passages include Lake Superior, Lake Michigans Inland Waterway and Seneca Lake off the Erie Canal. could experience an enjoyable and safe cruise. The AGLCA offers a wealth of information that pertains to a Great Loop excursion and provides necessary facts for first-time, as well as repeat Loopers. The organization (which boasts a membership of nearly 5,000) organizes two rendezvous each year to welcome newcomers, renew old friendships and exchange stories and well-learned lessons. The first event is held near Charleston, S.C. in the spring, while the second is held at Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville, Ala. during the fall (this year scheduled for Oct. 24-27). Three years ago, the Stobs passed the AGLCA helm to Steve and Janice Kromer, avid boaters in their own right with a longtime involvement in the U.S. Power Squadron in Charleston. Although the Kromers are only partially Looped, they have logged numerous miles traversing the East Coast route aboard their 50-foot Marine Trader No Sense3 and possess ample knowledge about this intriguing blue interstate that continues to lure boaters every year. Janice Kromer recommends that Loopers consider a relaxed cruising format. Have a general plan, but not an itinerary. Be flexible and open to all the experiences along the waterway.
The Looper Lifestyle
any opt to cruise one area during the summer months, then store their boat and chart a new course the following season, while some Loopers are liveaboards who make the entire journey in one trip stretched out over months at a time. One thing all members of this cruising clique have in common is that they relish the spirit of the journey, which is as much about camaraderie as it is about reaching the intended destination. Americas Great Loop Cruisers Association (AGLCA) was formed by Ron and Eva Stob (authors of the guide Honey, Lets Get a Boat), after cruising the Great Loop in 1999. They wanted to share their navigational and cruising knowledge so others
Preparing for the Journey
he advice from experienced Loopers is to make a checklist prior to your trip, and make sure the boat is serviced from bow to stern and all onboard electronics are in working order. Of course, timing your trip is an essential element to plotting a memorable voyage. Most Loopers start the East Coast in the spring, spend the summer months along the Canadian waterways and complete the Gulf Coast crossing after Nov. 1, Janice Kromer explained. Above all else, do your research. Start the research early, use the
> AGLCA members receive a gold burgee upon completion of the Loop. Evan and Pookie Davis ended their 5,800-mile journey at their home port of Joe Wheeler Marina. Inset: Entering Peterborough Lift Lock on Trent-Severn Waterway.
Internet and visit websites detailing the Great Loop experience, said Lyn Morgan, who successfully completed the Great Loop aboard his 23-foot Premier pontoon boat. Keep proper charts, reference books and GPS within easy reach. Read charts and above all, check the NOAA weather forecasts online before you leave port or anchorage every day, said Evan Davis, who traveled the Loop with his wife, Pookie, aboard their 25-foot Ranger Tug. In Canada, NOAA redirects you to Weather Environment Canada. Let the weather control your schedule, not you. More tips from those in the know: Remember the cell phone charger and maybe even an extra battery. Get an adequate number of life jackets, and toss in some extras, just in case. Dont forget to pack plenty of essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent and raingear.
Safety First
van and Pookie Davis completed an exciting Great Loop voyage aboard Pookie II, a 25foot Ranger Tug outfitted with a 110 hp turbocharged Yanmar diesel engine. They departed Feb. 23, 2009 from their homeport a covered slip at Joe Wheeler State Park Marina in Alabama. After a 5,800-mile voyage, the couple crossed their wake at the entrance to the Tenn-Tom Waterway on the Tennessee River on Sept. 29, 2009. The highlights of the trip, which took the couple across Florida via Lake Okeechobee, were many. Our favorite part was the Trent-Severn Waterway in Canada, but its really hard to choose a favorite, Evan Davis said. Second choices would be the west coast of Michigan, which has numerous delightful small harbors of refuge, or Georgian Bay, which is gorgeous. While their excursion was relatively problem-free mechanically speak-
ing, Mother Nature paid an unexpected visit. We had no problems other than a bilge pump repair in Cape May, but (we experienced) horrible waves in the North Channel of Lake Huron at Meldrum Bay that were higher than the roof of the boat, which is seven and a half feet above the waterline. Davis stressed the importance of safety and adequate communication tools for first-time Loopers. Take a Safety and Seamanship U.S. Coast Guard course before you leave home and get an air card Verizon has better coverage for your computer, he recommended. The most dangerous thing to have on the Loop is a schedule, he said, referring to the free-spirited Looper nature. The Davis amazing seven-month adventure was filled with incredible memories that will last a lifetime. The jewels of the trip are the new friends you get to make and keep on the entire trip, Davis said.
BoatingWorld.com
feature Making the Great Loop
GREEN TURTLE BAY, GRAND RIVERS, KY

Kitty Nicolai launched her 23-footer from Green Turtle Bay with the help of fellow Coast Guard Auxiliarist Jim Daniels.
JAMIE WHITTEN LOCK AND DAM, MS

Jim Daniels inside Whitten Lock, the northernmost lock on the Tenn-Tom Waterway. Photo by Kitty Nicolai.
WHITE BLUFF, DEMOPOLIS, AL

Nicolai and Daniels cruised through historic and appropriately-named White Bluff along the Tombigbee River.
BLACK WARRIOR RIVER, AL

Black Warrior River is the primary tributary of the Tombigbee River in central Ala. Photo by Kitty Nicolai.
E AK
SUP
ERIOR
SUMMER ROUTES
KE
ICHIGAN LAKE M
K LA
N E O
TA R I O
ERI E C A N A L
E AK
ER
IE
CHICAGO
FALL ROUTES
IS RIVER
HUDS ON RIVER
LA
E NC RE R W E LA RIV ST
GATEWAY ARCH ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI EVAN AND POOKIE DAVIS
HU
RO
N
CAPE MAY, NEW JERSEY

EVAN AND POOKIE DAVIS
IL
LI
NO
NASHVILLE
IGBEE RIVER
MISSISSIPPI RIVE R
TO M B
SPRING ROUTES
EIFFEL TOWER PARIS, TENNESSEE

KITTY NICOLAI
ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND
A favorite stop for AGLCA members
MOBILE CARRABELLE
STUART FORT MYERS
BoatingWorld.com
Outerbridge and Tucker underway aboard Dart.
Going About
Lyn Morgan bought his Premier 235 S-Series PTX for use on Lake Powell (above). He completed his Great Loop journey in Tarpon Springs, FL (right).
I
sibilities of the Great Loop trip. And thats when I decided that was what I wanted to do. He completed the eight-weekand-a-day excursion July 17 with a list of incredible memories. In the beginning, its seeing America from the water, Morgan said. And crossing the edge of the Gulf of Mexico with my friend Fred Martin (Martin boarded in Carrabelle, Fla. and disembarked in Fort Myers, Fla.) to Tarpon Springs (Fla.) was great. It was a 200mile day the weather allowed us to cross. We were really going totally by GPS on that crossing. Morgan admitted to doing plenty of research and encouraged firsttimers to do the same. Dont take it lightly, he said. There are bits and pieces of advice that you need to tailor to your conditions depending upon the type of boat you are using. He described his Great Loop adventure as a combination of a destination and a journey limited to a three-month travel window. It was a destination in what to accomplish with day-to-day goals, while it was a journey to see the countryside. I took a different approach with the type of boat I used it was more of an out-there experience.
>
To learn more about Premiers PTX package, see page 34 for Alan Jones test of the Premier 250 Intrigue.
NOT YOUR TYPICAL PONTOONER
his year, Lyn Morgan completed his inaugural 5,300-mile Great Loop cruise. Morgan embarked aboard his Premier 235 S-Series PTX pontoon boat in May at Kentucky Lake, Ky. The hull, powered by a 250 hp Yamaha, sports a full glass windshield along with additional features including the rough-water package, PTX triple-toons for better handling performance and an adjustable chair mount. Not sure if anyone has done the Loop in a pontoon boat, but this one is capable, Morgan wrote in his blog during the first leg of his journey. Its a heavy-duty tri-pontoon boat. Initially, Morgan intended to use the Premier on a lake. Then he got the idea for a possible excursion down the Mississippi. The idea finally evolved into a Great Loop voyage some eight months later. I had originally ordered it for use on Lake Powell (Utah), he explained. I got interested in a trip going from Minnesota down the Mississippi and back. Then, (when I thought about) getting all the way down to Mobile, it made me realize the pos-
n May 2002, Bermuda resident Gillian Outerbridge shipped her boat stateside to Liberty Landing Marina, N.J. and launched the first of many travel plans. During the next two years, she single-handedly (OK her Jack Russell terrier, Tucker, came too) cruised the Rideau Waterway and Trent-Severn Waterway from spring through fall aboard her Flicka 20foot sailboat equipped with a Yamaha 9.9 four-stroke outboard. I completed the Rideau Waterway that first summer and parked Dart back at Liberty Landing for the winter, Outerbridge explained. On my return, I set off west on the Trent-Severn, reached Georgian Bay and Manitoulin Island. At this point, I was behind schedule to drive to the rendezvous at Manitoulin. I decided not to carry on around the Loop that year, so I trailered back to the west end of the Erie Canal with the focus on reaching Greece. My lifelong dream was to cruise to Greece in my own boat. This was a modified achievement of the dream: Greece, N.Y. not Greece, Greece. She chronicled her nearly 1,000mile summer voyages in the pages of her book, Going About! A Waterway Adventure. I loved every minute, especially the camaraderie amongst boaters, she said. Her advice to would-be Loopers is borrowed from the words of Lin and Larry Pardey: Go small, go simple, go now. And Outerbridge took the advice. Thats what I did and dont regret a minute. Take the boat you have, the boat you know, and just go!
> After passing through Jamie Whitten Lock, the Tenn-Tom Waterway eventually leads to the White Bluff area of Ala. Below: Kitty Nicolai spent 5 days in Paris Landing, Tenn. while her engine was repaired.
Relocation
fter years of considering a Great Loop voyage, Kitty Nicolai took a departure from the routine journey, making her dream trip come true via a unique twist from St. Louis to Floridas Gulf Coast. The U.S. Coast Guard auxiliarist was moving south and needed to get her boat to Hudson, Fla. along the scenic Gulf Coast region. Her years of patrolling the waters from Lake Michigan to St. Louis with fellow Aux friend and boating aficionado Jim Daniels, prompted Nicolai to make a realistic decision
that proved to be the best course of action: make the trip via water. Nicolai and Daniels trailered the 23footer to Green Turtle Bay, Ky. and launched from there in June 2008. Although her boat (CG Auxiliary 7045) is a vessel of the United States when under orders, this 1,200-mile voyage was not. She completed the cruise in just two weeks, despite a five-day delay for engine repair at Paris Landing, Tenn. When under way, she accomplished her goal of 100 miles per day.
While most cruisers have a designated favorite stop on their voyage, Nicolai admitted there isnt one on her list. People make the place, and 99 percent of the folks we met along the way were superb, she said. She described her trip as unconventional from that of most Loopers in that it was on board a smaller boat at a faster pace. And although the journey was simply too short and too fast, it will remain one of the highlights of our lives.
>
Know Before You Go

Quimbys 2010 Cruising Guide Books by Ron and Eva Stob
Honey, Lets Get a Boat: A Cruising Adventure of Americas Great Loop Great Loop Side Trips: 20 Cruising Adventures on Eastern North Americas Waterways The Waterways Journal, Inc. 319 N. Fourth St., Suite 650 St. Louis, MO 63102 (314) 241-4310, quimbyscruisingguide.com
Americas Great Loop Cruisers Association (AGLCA)

500 Oakbrook Lane Summerville, SC 29485 (877) 478-5667, greatloop.org
BoatingWorld.com
feature green cleaning
BY KRISTINA ACKERMANN
oating and cleaning go together like peas and carrots: If you want to keep your baby looking like new, youre going to have to use some elbow grease. Thankfully, cleaning products have come a long way since the days of bleach in a bucket. With the amount of time boaters spend on the water enjoying the great outdoors, were also demanding products that are safe for waterways, wildlife and our families. Cleaning gear companies have responded to this demand with an array of products that are biodegradable and free of toxins. Weve gathered some of our favorite cleaning products in the environmentally friendly field to help you keep your boat and your water as clean as can be.
Star brite Sea Safe Boat Wash | $14.99

Star brite;
1-800-327-8583; starbrite.com
Star brite delivers a concentrated, low-sudsing formula that is friendly on your wallet and the water. Biodegradable and phosphate-free, Sea Safe Boat Wash is approved for inland lakes as well as saltwater environments.
Circle 47 on reader service card, pg. 33
Spray Nine Green Marine Multi-Purpose Cleaner | $11.40

Spray Nine; (631) 777-7655; spray9.net
Dirt, oil, grime, food you name the stain, and Green Marine can handle it. The EPAs Design for the Environment program gives its seal of approval to this marine cleaner for its low VOC content and pHbalanced formula. Its also biodegradable, contains no ozone-depleting chemicals, is non-carcinogenic and nontoxic to skin and eyes. Circle 46
on reader service card, pg. 33
MaryKate Aluminex Clean & Shine | $11.99

CRC Industries
Marine; 1-800-556-5074; crcindustries.com
Shurhold Brite Wash | $11.98

Shurhold; 1-800-962-6241; shurhold.com
Brite Wash is designed to be safe and effective on fiberglass, clear coat, metal, rubber and painted surfaces, so go ahead and stock up for your boat, car, RV and other toys. The environmentally smart formula is concentrated to conserve water when washing and save you money.
MaryKate Aluminex Clean & Shine from CRC Industries does exactly what its name implies: cleans and brightens aluminum hulls and pontoons. The Safe Acid Technology makes it suitable for either painted or anodized aluminum. Aluminex is pH balanced, odor-free and free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
feature green cleaning

Conserve water by using Babes Boat Bright Spray Wax no prewashing required. The nonabrasive formula cleans and protects your boats surfaces, while adding UV protection against oxidation and fading. The environmentally safe formula is pH balanced and 100 percent biodegradable. Circle 20 on reader service card, pg. 33
Babes Boat Bright Spray Wax | $10.75 Babes Boat Care Products; 1-888-422-2374; babesboats.com
Thetford Marine MultiPurpose Stain Remover | $14.99

Of all the products out there that claim to be safe for the environment, Thetfords Multi-Purpose Stain Remover is actually recognized by the EPAs Design for the Environment program for its biodegradable formula free of inorganic phosphates, hazardous solvents or harmful surfactants. And because its chlorine free, Multi-Purpose Stain Remover is safe for use on every surface of your boat, including carpet, vinyl, rubber and fiberglass. Circle 55 on reader service card, pg. 33
Thetford; 1-800-543-1219; thetford.com
Salt-Away | $11.99
saltawayproducts.com
Salt-Away; 1-888-725-8292;
Salt-Aways Corrosion Control formula is a must-have for all saltwater mariners. The ingredients are 100 percent nontoxic, nonhazardous, biodegradable and safe to use on virtually all surfaces. Once its applied, a dense foam clings to the surface, dissolving salt crystals that are then lifted up into the foam and easily rinsed away. The formula has zero hydrocarbon solvents, so it will not remove any lubricating products. Salt-Away also leaves behind residual corrosion inhibitors to prevent future salt damage.
TRAC Ecological GreenClean Boat Soap | $15.87

trac-online.com
TRAC Ecological Marine Products; (954) 987-2722;

TRAC has built a solid reputation in the field of environmentally friendly cleaning products. GreenClean Boat Soap is uniquely formulated to completely biodegrade in 28 days, not years like some other products. Because it is free of petroleum products, phosphates, dyes, fragrances and butyl cellusolve, not only is it nontoxic but it rinses completely clean, leaving no residue behind. An eco-safe soap that leaves less work for you; whats not to like? Circle 56 on reader service card, pg. 33
West Marine Pure Oceans Citrus Bilge Cleaner | $9.99 Mothers Marine Washn Wax | $13.99
Mothers Polish; (714) 891-3364; mothers.com
This concentrated formula combines two steps in one to save you time. Biodegradable and low-sudsing, Washn Wax easily removes dirt and grime, and rinses away for a glossy finish.
West Marine; 1-800-262-8464;

westmarine.com
Break down the noxious oil and grease lining your bilge, and eliminate odors with a refreshing citrus scent. All the products in West Marines Pure Oceans line are biodegradable and free of phosphates, petroleum distillates and other harmful components.
BoatLIFE Boat Cleaner | $14.69

BoatLIFE; 1-800-382-9706; boatlife.com
This phosphate-free, biodegradable formula is an environmentally safe way to clean every area of your boat without removing wax or dulling the finish.
BoatingWorld.com
The of
More photos of your furry friends
Dog Days Summer
Bode, Mel Brown Kalispell, MT
very month here at Boating World, the editors and I look through countless photos to determine who will be named Salty Dog of the Month. The winner gets a free Big Bertha tow toy from the nice people at SportsStuff, so naturally the contest is pretty popular. Once the summer boating season rolls around, the photo entries start flooding in! We cant give a prize to every salty dog contestant (wed probably put SportsStuff out of business!), but we can share the photos of these lovable pooches with all of you. We even have a salty cat who wants in on the action! I hope you enjoy these photos as much as I did. Next time youre out on the water with your dog, be sure to snap a photo and send it in. You could be our next winner! Until next year, Bobby
Mija, Ed Nadler & Vicky Alsaker Grand Bahamas
Lucy, Jeff & Sandy Wolk Talladega, AL
Remy, Marcie & Bill Pardy Holmes, NY
Ellie, Shaun & Kari Otto Lake Ozark, MO
Jersey, Chris Johnston Newburyport, MA
Bruno, Derek Orf & April Stone Rochester, NY
Beaker, Greg & Sabrina Ostrowski Annapolis, MD
Bubba, Kate Phillips Lynn, MA
WIN THIS!
Calling All Salty Dogs:

Send your picture to Bobby for your chance to win a SportsStuff tow toy. Contact Bobby at bobby@boatingworld.com or Boating World, Salty Dog, 17782 Cowan, Suite A, Irvine, CA 92614. Please include a photo, along with your name, your dogs name, your address and phone number.
Brutus, Bryan & Keri Brock Viera, FL
Lulla Belle, Carolyn & Frank Snyder Jacksonville, FL
Ginger, Dominique Farrar Walnut Creek, CA
Faith, Tracy & Shane Ide Hephzibah, GA
The
Dog Days of Summer
Osa, Randy Leon Stanwood, WA
Beaver, Joan Godlewski Crown Point, IN
Biscuit, Darrell & Doreen Clark Sugar Springs, MI
Toby & Sable, Bruce Bockwoldt Chatsworth, CA
Gypsy, Christy Judah Supply, NC
Otis, Don & Annette Abbatiello Pompano Beach, FL
Dawson, Julie & Michael Conlon Shrewsbury, MA
Zazoo, Don & Annette Abbatiello Pompano Beach, FL
Lucy, Richard Iannelli Franklin, TN
Bailey, Tim & Becky Jones Beaufort, NC
Ellie, Ian Ashton Royal Oak, MI
Buster, John Brooks Manhattan Beach, CA
Smiley, Andrew Crispin Houston, TX
Oakley, Jaime & Pallie Fortwangler Coral Springs, FL
Rowdy Huckleberry, Alysse Day College Station, TX
The
Dog Days of Summer
Wendy, Jody McFarland Beaverton, OR
Millie, Chuck & Shea Lindsey Forsyth, GA
Jackson & Maddie, Raymond & Crystal Glasscock Springtown, TX
Buddy, Ron & Tina Marie DeGeorge Wheeling, IL
Tinker Bell, Melissa Mattevi Lancaster, SC
Ronin & Millie, Mike Paradise Centerport, NY
CoCo, Linda Marcellus Fort Myers, FL
Jake, Michelle Gay Alpharetta, GA
Willie, Mark and Cori VanEpps, Spring Lake, MI Koda, Eric and Barb Schulz, Allendale, MI
Chloe, Jessie York Stevensville, MD
Oreo, Krystle Morgado Kingston, NH
Cashmere, Alyssa Poole Raleigh, NC
BoatingWorld.com
The
Dog Days of Summer
Ollie Bear, Jon & Monica Mohler Bristow, VA
Miley, Nadine Gosanko Elgin, IL
Lilly, Mary & Brad Frey Delanson, NY
Leto, Bruce Reid Campbell River, B.C., Canada
Ivan, Becky Ralph Bethlehem, PA
Fiona, Matt Stallings Talbott, TN
Buddy, Sherry Farrell Hilton, NY
Nora, Aaron Melnychuk Eugene, OR
Mojo, Steve Hogenson Spicer, MN
Chino, Justin & Natalie Diel Navarre, FL
Moose, Mark Bohrnsen Denver, CO
Malia, Kim & Jake Bursack Reston, VA
Ruger, John Formoso Fremont, CA
Quasar, Ray & Doreen Wyllins West Berlin, NJ
The
Dog Days of Summer
Zeus, Nate Church Burlington, VT
Otis, Joe Sandy Gwynn, VA
Baxter, Dave & Amanda Fallon Virginia Beach, VA
Rex, Brian & Matina Oliver Toms River, NJ
Hunter & Marshall, Michaela Rekowski Pittsburgh, PA
Okee, Hailey Tobe Long Beach, NY
Mallory Marine
Mallory Marine has the best preventive maintenance products for your outboard or inboard marine engine. If you are a do it yourself owner or rely on a service professional Mallory Marine has quality products you can count on, Mallory Marine has new expanded coverage on marine grade Synthetic and Synthetic Blend engine oils that far exceed OEM warranty requirements and offer free extended warranty coverage for up to 6 years when used exclusively in your new engine. Contact your local dealer or visit www.mallorymarine.com for more information.
THICKENED EPOXY ADHESIVES

Six10 Thickened Epoxy Adhesive offers the permanent, waterproof, gapfilling and gluing performance of WEST SYSTEM epoxy in a convenient, point-and-shoot package. The Six10 cartridge fits in a standard caulking gun and meters epoxy resin and hardener through a static mixing wand. Just squeeze. Six10 lays a smooth, workable bead of pre-thickened, fully mixed WEST SYSTEM Epoxy. This gap-filling structural epoxy bonds tenaciously to wood, metals, fiberglass and concrete. The mixture will not run or sag. Six10s chambered cartridge keeps resin and hardener separate for a long shelf life. Six10 retails for around $20 at your friendly WEST SYSTEM dealer.
WEST SYSTEM SIX10
PO Box 665, Bay City, MI 48707 866-937-8797 www.westsystem.com

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contest name the boat YOURS FREE!

Prize courtesy of
Junes Winner:
Trawler Trash
Michael Blasko from Houston was the first to submit the boat name for our seafaring hoarders. He receives an Inflatable Skedaddle Kayak from West Marine.
receive a pair of compact waterproof box speakers from West Marine, valued at $99.99. Well reprint the picture with the winning boat name in the February 2011 issue. Submissions are due by Nov. 30. Send an e-mail to editor@boatingworld.com with Name the Boat in the subject line or send snail mail to Boating World Magazine/Name the Boat, 17782 Cowan, Suite A, Irvine, CA 92614. Please include your full name, address and phone number, along with your entry.
Rick Martin illustration
How to Enter This Months turn in the best boat name will Contest: The first person to
What a bunch of show-offs. Come up with the winning name for this show boat and win a set of compact waterproof box speakers from West Marine.
MORE OF JUNES FUNNIEST ENTRIES:

House Boat
Guy Wiggs,Weatherford,TX
Davey Jones Storage Locker

Sharon Bartley, Silver Spring, MD
All Ahoard
Melissa Harrison, Deltona, FL
No VacanSea
Gina Cocci, Port Saint Lucie, FL
Ballast Palace
Greg Walsh, Essex Junction,VT
Junk Lubbers
Jan Titus, Eastsound,WA
Stacked Deck
Bill Gomola, Olmsted Falls, OH
Gross Tonnage
Dennis Magner, Spokane,WA
Dads Ark
Ted Walton, Johnstown, OH
Hoard on Board
Glenn Bloom, Oklahoma City, OK
Everything but the Kitchen Sink

Dan Petherbridge, Essex Junction,VT
Clutter Cutter
Eleanor Springer, Midland, PA
A Work of Ark
Chris Hedetniemi, Dennis, MA
Homeward Bound
Scott Flood, Oregonia, OH
Garbage Barge
Peter Haight, Bradenton, FL
Tons of Fun
Roger Kirchhoff, Montague, NJ
Liveaboards Welcome
Jim Buchanan, Christmas, FL
Gilligans Pile
Jonathan Altman, New Bern, NC
Pack Raft
Robert Franki, Penfield, NY
Overboarded
David Michael,Albany, OR
Bulging at the Beam

Mary Jo Bagans, Grosse Ile, MI
Moving Sail
Warren Steinmeyer, Lizella, GA
S.O.Mess
Tim Spates, North Port, FL
Boatload
Danielle Pavsek,Tempe,AZ
Fully Equipped
Don Monaco, Shirley, MA
Pile Driver
Alexander Shaw III, Hagerstown, MD
Want Knot
Michael Cole, Lake Worth, FL
Day Tripper
William Evans, Culpeper,VA
Roughing It
Tray Richardson, Richmond, KY
Boating World Editorial and Advertising Offices, 17782 Cowan, Ste. A, Irvine, CA 92614; (949) 660-6150. Boating World (ISSN 1059-5155, USPS 575-890) is printed in the U.S.A. and published eight times a year in Jan., Feb., Mar., Apr., May, Jun., Jul./Aug., and Fall/Winter at 17782 Cowan Ste. A, Irvine, CA 92614 by Duncan McIntosh Co. Inc. Periodicals Postage paid at Irvine, CA 92614 and at additional mailing offices. Editorial contributions are welcome. Please submit all contributions to the editor, accompanied by return postage. We assume no responsibility for loss or damage of unsolicited materials. Boating World retains reprint rights, via print and electronic media. Contributor retains all other rights for resale, publication, etc. POSTMASTER: Please send change of address to Boating World, P. O. Box 25859, Santa Ana, CA 92799-5859. CANADA POST: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608 Canada Returns to be sent to Bleuchip International, P. O. Box 25542, London, OH N6C 6B2. SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE: Please send all subscription correspondence to Boating World to P.O. Box 25859, Santa Ana, CA 92799-5859. Please allow at least six weeks for the change of address to become effective. Include both your old and your new address-enclosing, if possible, an address label from a recent issue. SUBSCRIPTION PRICE: U.S. and its possessions, $19.97 per year. Additional postage for Canada is $15.00 per year and other foreign countries $30.00 per year. Single copy price $4.95; back issues, $8.50 (in the U.S. only) includes postage and handling. Boating World is a registered trademark of Duncan McIntosh Co. Inc. Copyright 2010, all rights reserved. PERMISSIONS: Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission.
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IN PLAIN VIEW THE EASIEST-TO-READ ENGINE DISPLAYS

TO USE THIS WINTER

$4.95 USA . 9 5 Canada $ 4 and

4 NEW BOATS TESTED

Display until 12/21/10

VISIT YOUR LOCAL DEALER FOR THE MALIBU CHALLENGE DETAILS R

FREE INFO CIRCLE 5 ON THE READER SERVICE CARD ON PG. 33

VOLUME XXXI, NUMBER 8

The Dog Days of Summer

Premier 250 Intrigue

Four Winns SL262

Bonehead Blunders Mistakes

Mailbox Letters from our

DIY Installing a side-scan

Contest: Sudoku Win a

Currents Bits from the

Engines Gauges get a

Gear The latest accessories, gadgets and electronics

BoatingWorld July/August 2009

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editors letter alan jones

THE DEBACLE IN THE GULF

FREE INFO CIRCLE 77 ON THE READER SERVICE CARD ON PG. 33

BoatingWorld Fall/Winter 2010

SAY WHAT? We asked the BW team:

If you had your own cable TV network, what would it be called?

Guys Gone Boating

As The Stomach Turns

We jump the shark!

BABLN: Big Als Boating Leisure Network

Looney Tunes 24/7

Annabelle Zabala Go Boating Network

Brian Hartman Zoo: All Hair, All the Time

Tip of the Day

BoatingWorld Fall/Winter 2010

INTRODUCING YOUR NEXT BOAT.

A Boat for all Reasons

Bow Fishing Seats (with Fishing Package)

PlayCrafts family of premium boats.

Bench Seat with Livewell (with Fishing Package)

Double Splashguards to Deect Water Away from Boat

Secure Your Gear In Convenient Underseat Storage

MAILBOX Letters from our readers

Avoid Battery Drain

BoatingWorld Fall/Winter 2010

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Summer Vacation in the Gulf

How to reach us:

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currents news and notables

Fashion Forward ...and Aft

BoatingWorld Fall/Winter 2010

currents news and notables

SALTY DOG OF THE MONTH

DOG: Casey OWNERS: Becky and Jay Cable, Seaford, Va.

New from Dave Scaddens Premium Pontoon Craft,

The Latest Weapon in the Gulf Oil Spill Cleanup

1.1 1,031,697 17 300

Billions of dollars anglers spend on bait each year

Millions of anglers who fish from boats

currents news and notables

1973 Checkmate MX-15

For boat manufacturer deals and incentives, go to BoatingWorld.com