HIT THE WATER
It’s easy to enjoy the boating lifestyle at the 60th annual boat show
“Our goal is to help instill a love of the water without breaking the bank.” – Jeff Duhamel, Legend Boats
Reflecting back on summers in Ontario, many of us fondly remember days spent on the water, and often that memory includes boating. Even for those who might not have had the opportunity to enjoy that experience, the idea of a day on a boat, big or small, is appealing.
This fun, healthy, relaxing lifestyle resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds who love the outdoors. But frequently, the fear of commitment, whether to the cost or due to a lack of experience, can create apprehension for potential boat lovers.
The Toronto International Boat Show is dedicated to bringing the latest in canoes, kayaks, fishing boats, sailboats and yachts to all levels of boaters, from beginners to experts. But the vendors and organizers of the show are equally committed to providing helpful information, tips and recommendations to those who are entry-level boaters.
“We want to arm those interested in getting involved in the boating lifestyle with the tools and information they need to get started,” says Cynthia Hare, show manager of the Toronto International Boat Show. That means showing off more than 1,200 new boats and thousands of accessories. But it also means providing alternative ways to get started.
“It’s important that we cater to the diverse demographics that make up the greater Toronto area with a variety of boating lifestyle options that have wide appeal,” explains Morten Fogh, owner of Fogh Marine in Etobicoke and Fogh Boat Supplies in Port Credit. “Many of these potential boaters are looking for ease, simplicity and affordability, at least initially. Once they get hooked on the lifestyle, they may want to trade up. But to get more people on the water and build our base, we need alternatives that suit new boaters.”
“Our goal is to help instill a love of the water without breaking the bank,” says Jeff Duhamel, owner of Legend Boats in Innisfil. “We’re all about promoting the lifestyle. These days many of our customers are looking to get back to basics, boats at introductory and mid-level price points.” Many of these buyers are looking at “Splash” pontoon boats, personal watercrafts and aluminum boats, great for every member of the family.
“The Boat Show provides great opportunities to talk to all the experts, get educated and discover exactly what’s right for you,” says Duhamel. “It’s also a great time to buy — delivery is just in time for spring boating.”
If you’re considering buying a boat but are not sure what type, joining a boat club is affordable and a great first step into boating, allowing you to experience a variety of boats. “It’s boating without owning,” says Steve Taylor, owner of Carefree Boat Club on Lake Simcoe. “Much like joining a golf club, there’s a one-time initiation and monthly dues to have access to a fleet of boats wherever a Carefree Boat Club is located. Membership includes unlimited on-the-water training on the basic mechanics of boating and emergency procedures. It’s great for those who want to enjoy walk-on/walk-off boating without the expense, commitment or pitfalls of boat ownership — perfect for both new and experienced boaters.”
Carefree Boat Club membership comes with other extras like personal dockside service, unlimited boating, premium vessels, full navigation and coast guard-equipped, along with an easy online reservation system, weather watch while you’re on the water and access to the variety of rapidly expanding and prime Carefree Boat Club locations.
If you’re looking for more affordable ways to get involved in the boating lifestyle, Fogh recommends you investigate your options. “Look online for provincial associations, which are not for profit, are impartial and loaded with good information.” In the Toronto area, there are also many not-forprofit and commercial clubs you can join to learn and experience boating before you purchase a vessel. “For example, you can join a crew bank at a yacht club or head to Harbourfront and rent a kayak — great ways to learn on the water.”