Houseboat Magazine January 2018

Building your families dreams
Full Hull (V Series)
Twin Hull (Q Series)
Twin Hull (I Series)
www.destinationyachts.com • 812.254.8800
r bo at be f o re th e 20 1 8 season s
s re f u rbish y o u tarts.
Not too late ... le t u
January | February 2018
Vol um e 2 8 | I s s u e 1
14
AT THE HELM
8 S t a t e O f O u r I n d u s t ry
LIVING ABOARD
10 B r i g ht B u y s F o r H o u s e b o a t L i veaboar ds
FINANCING YOUR DREAMS

12 N o w I s T h e T i m e To B u y A H ous eboat
21
MANUFACTURER BIOS
18 B u y e r’s G u i d e I n t ro d u c t i o n
20 Adonia Yachts
21 Bravada Yachts
22 Destination Yachts
24 Eco-Sea Cottages
25 FLOE CRAFT
26 Gibson Boats
27 Harbor Cottages 31
28 Majestic Yachts
29 Overblue Yachts
30 Sailabration Houseboats
31 Stardust Cruisers
32 Sumerset Houseboats
33 SummerSun
34 Sunstar Houseboats
35 Thoroughbred Houseboats
36 Twin Anchors Houseboats 38
ARE YOU COVERED?
37 I n su ra n c e T i p s F o r H o u s e b o a t er s
TOTALLY TENDERED
38 C o m p a c t A c c e s s o ry C ra ft s F o r Your H ous eboat
DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE
46 C o m p l e t e M a n u fa c t u re r & B rok er L i s ti ngs
C o v e r p h o t o p r o v i d e d b y O v e r b l u e Ya c h ts
Cover design by R.D. Dye
4 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

A New Concept That Redefines Boating
Overblue 48' Catamaran
• Ideal for Bay and Delta
• Comfortable, spacious & easy to handle,
the Overblue power catamaran has it all!
• Semi-custom. Choose your layout!
• Also available in 44', 58', and 68'
1070 Marina Village Pkwy, Ste. 104, Alameda CA 94501

Richard Boland Yacht Sales 510.610.6213 • richardbolandyachts.com • rbys@aol.com
\ɄɨȐȽXȨȽɴȵȵɄɄɑȨȽȝ
• • • • • • • • • • • •
0DUL'HFNQHW
WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 5

SO, YOU DON’T HAVE STAFF
THRUSTERS?
No problem! We can install hydraulic
PUBLISHER
Greg Larsen
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Brady L. Kay
EDITORIAL STAFF
bow and stern thrusters on your Austa Cook, Tyffani Hoff,
Jean Knutson, Vanessa Oler,
Heather Magda Serrano, Roy Sparks
boat in one day--without moving EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENTS
Dan Armitage, Janet Groene,
your boat from the slip! Gini McKain
ADVERTISING/EVENTS
Kory Davis
Westerbeke Terri Duncan
Greg Larsen
Generator
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Installation Janet Chase
LAYOUT & DESIGN

R.D. Dye
PRODUCTION
Janet Chase, Jim Donovan
R.D. Dye
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Terri Duncan
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Greg Larsen
CIRCULATION MANAGER
Yvonne Young
Helm-mounted thruster
CONTROLLER
controls make docking Clayton Ward
so easy! ACCOUNTING
Laura Rafferty
IT DIRECTOR
• No trucks, trailers, welders or Chuck Harris
fabricators needed. We do it all, To subscribe, go to:

www.harrispublishing.com/houseboat
and you save thousands!
• We make several styles and
sizes of built-in, bolt-on, and
tube-hydraulic thrusters.
Copyright 2018, published by Harris
• Are they strong? Stern

Publishing, 6 per year, sub rates,
back copies, foreign, reproduction
prohibitions, all rights reserved, not
There’s nothing stronger! Thruster responsible for content of ads and
submitted materials, mail permits, printed
by Falls Printing, Idaho Falls, Idaho.
HydraNautics CORPORATE OFFICES

Harris Publishing, Inc.
360 B Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83402
(208) 524-7000 • Fax (208) 522-5241
Founded by Darryl W. Harris
“When you’re tired of sitting at the dock.” President - Jason Harris

Vice President - Chuck Harris
Vice President - Ryan Harris
859-885-5545 Vice President - Steve Janes

Vice President - Greg Larsen
Treasurer - Clayton Ward
Secretary - Janet Chase
Check out the 4 online videos of our products in action. They will make a believer out of you!
thrusterman.com
ALSO PUBLISHERS OF:
See for Great Lakes Boating
Pontoon and Deck Boat Magazine
yourself at

WANT TO SEE
SOMETHING COOL?
app.
w o r l d .
Do w n l o a d the
Chan ge the
Anytime you see this logo in our magazine,

you can grab your phone and open the PrintFlic™ app.
Snap a photo and watch the magazine come alive in your hands.
AT THE HELM
By Brady L. Kay
State Of Our Industry

State of the industry speeches, state Bryan Lambert, president and CEO for
of the industry conferences, state of the Sailabration agreed, “We are confident our
industry reports and other addresses are sales will see substantial increases over the
quite common these days. And while I feel next 12 months. Our interest and leads
it’s important to cover and report on the have gone up drastically.”
current growth of the houseboat industry,
I substituted one word in my headline. CHANGING HANDS
Instead of referring to the houseboat In March our industry received some
industry I instead went with the word our good news when Gibson Houseboats
because as a magazine we really do feel a announced it was under new ownership
part of the houseboating community. and would be relocating so it could begin
That’s right, even though as a magazine building new boats as well as refurbishing
“
staff we’ve never physically built a house- old ones.
boat (believe me, it’s “We made the
a good thing to leave move to South
to the professionals, Dakota, which set
“We reached out since just hanging an us back for another
office door recently several months,”
to some of the top proved to be quite recalled co-owner
a challenge for our Kelly Cawthorne.
group), we’ve been “But after that we
houseboat manufacturers connected to house- went gang busters
boating well before and we’re predicting
recently to see what our first issue was 2018 is going to be
printed back in 1990. a banner year for
signs or indications they We’ve seen the high- Gibson Boats. We
est of highs and the get as many as 20
might be noticing for lowest of lows during calls per day asking
our tenure and as an about Gibson boats,
2018. We’re thrilled to industry we’re stron- new boat inquires,
ger for it. rental boat inquires
We reached out and of course the
hear they’re all our opti- to some of the top outpouring of cus-
houseboat manufac- tomers thanking us
mistic and beyond thrilled turers recently to see for bringing back
what signs or indi- Gibson to the fleet.”
for growth this year.” cations they might Another solid
be noticing for 2018. Destination Yachts houseboat manu-
We’re thrilled to hear owner Sheldon Graber facturer recently
”
they’re all our opti- looks off the bow of one of changed ownership
mistic and beyond his houseboats as he heads in 2017 too and
thrilled for growth into the dock prior to the Bravada Yachts is
this year. 2015 On Water Expo on anticipating a lot of
“I have quoted Lake Cumberland. growth in 2018 as
more new boats in well.
the last few months, than the entire previ- Right now we are on track to have our
ous year total,” said Sunstar owner George biggest year ever for sales,” said Bravada
Roberts who has been an industry staple COO Robert Gutierrez. “With all of the
for decades. “I think sales will be stronger new designs and new markets opening,
this year and we should be in a good posi- we anticipate our 2018 sales increasing by
tion to take advantage.” 150 percent or more!”

“Customers are giving us amazing boating industry in general was struggling. have to admit it has been quite a ride.
feedback about our forward thinking and “This time period made the manufac- As an industry we have become stronger,
innovative approach to maximizing the turers step back and really look at what more efficient and the dedication and
houseboating experience,” added Bravada made them strong in the industry,” said appreciation for custom-built houseboats
VP Andrew Marshall. “We are on track to Destination Yacht’s Graber. “It wasn’t just has never been stronger. This is the state
have our biggest year ever for sales!” about sitting back and taking orders, it of our industry and it’s easy to see where
was about what we could to do assure all the enthusiasm is coming from. I think
ALL BOOKED OUT repeat customers and customers who told we can all look forward to an exciting year
Other companies such as Trifecta everyone on the dock about the boat that in 2018. Q
Ventures, who represent Stardust Cruisers, we built for them.”
Sumerset Houseboats and Thoroughbred Added FLOE CRAFT dealer Greg Ray
Houseboats, finished 2017 very strong from Plano, Texas, “While there are fewer
and are already filling orders for 2018. dealers and boat builders today, those who
“We have seen a tremendous up-tick in are left have really improved. Products are
interest from those seeking to potentially better and overall the customer experi-
build a new houseboat,” says Trifecta pres- ence with dealers has improved.”
ident Chris Girdler. A lot of houseboats For some builders it was just figuring
around the country are getting some age out how to survive when others simply
on them and whether it’s from a renova- couldn’t. During the recession a lot of
tions perspective or building new, there well-known houseboat manufacturers
is a lot of action and interest from all cor- went out of business with the strongest
ners of the world. We are currently booked surviving.
out 12 months with backorders for new “We were able to weather the storm
houseboats.” by increasing our work scope to include
modernization and upgrades of older
POSITIVE OUTLOOK boats as well as expanding our product
With early signs indicating a strong line,” said Sailabration’s Lambert. Sunstar owner George Roberts at
2018, manufacturers are looking to be For those who have seen the ups and the Houseboat Expo in Louisville,
aggressive with their pricing to help lure downs of the past 20 years or longer, you Kentucky in 2011.
new houseboaters into the family.
“We are most excited about the positive
NEWCOAST FINANCIAL
outlook towards boating,” said Destination
Yachts president Sheldon Graber. “Rising
costs of land-based property on the water
continue to make houseboating an afford-
able alternative to get on the lake. This
#1 in
year will be a record year for our company
as we refocus on our I Series price-point
as
boats.”
A s low
. 4 9 % Houseboat
*4
“We in America as a whole are doing s
better all around,” added Gibson’s -20 year
Cawthorne. “The economy is better, atti-
tudes are better and we are feeling more Fixe
df or 10 Financing
stable today than in the past. There also
seems to be a lot of movement towards
the advancing into new boats and selling • Houseboats 1987 and newer
off the used ones. Most of the calls we
get start with people needing pricing /RZHVWÀ[HGUDWH
on a new Gibson Boat because someone
in their marina wants to buy their used )LQDQFHRU5HÀQDQFH
Gibson.”
LESSONS LEARNED
While looking forward and predicting
Contact Joey Gottfried
growth in 2018 is important, it’s also criti-
cal that as an industry we don’t forget our
678-523-7350
recent past. Despite our struggles, there
are some positives that can be taken from
JoeyGott@gmail.com
the past eight or nine years when the www.newcoast.com/Joey-Gottfried
LIVING ABOARD
By Janet Groene
Bright Buys
For Houseboat Liveaboards
Living aboard in all waters, all seasons isn’t just about weekend raft-ups and fun. It’s
about filing the income tax on time and finding storage space for the Christmas decora-
tions. Here’s just a taste of new products to make your houseboat even more livable as
you’re shopping the boat shows this season.
Furniture
GlasTop Marine
Furniture (www.
glastop.com), based
in Pompano Beach,
Fla., says its three
most popular pieces
are a 23- or 27-inch
wide barrel swivel
chair, a sectional
sofa and the compa-
ny’s designer Hi-Lo
Marine Teak Table.
It fits the smallest
space, yet opens to
4 feet long. Available
in two widths, it can
be raised for dining
or lowered to make
a coffee table. The
marine furniture
is made with brass
or stainless steel
fittings and tough,
treated fabrics such
as Sunbrella and
Ultraleather. All
upholstered pieces
have hidden storage.
Lighting
Bright, energy-efficient LED lighting continues to be introduced in more and more
ways including fixtures especially designed for marine use. Now Michigan-based
TecNiq (www.techniqinc.com) has introduced a compact, stainless steel LED projec-
tion light that can be wall-mounted and aimed to light specific areas such as steps.

Galley & Bath
Marine toilets have gone high tech, offering all the features of
household toilets. Yet upgrading gets complicated for houseboaters
when new wiring is required for features such as lighting or automat-
ic dispensing of cleaning chemicals. Bluetooth control has long been
available for home toilets and now Raritan
(www.raritaneng.com), an innovator in marine toilets, has introduced
BT for their electronic heads. Yep, you can now flush using your
Android or Apple smartphone!
Accon Marine’s (www.acconmarine.com) adjustable, stainless steel
drink and bottle holders bring fine quality marine materials into the
galley and bath. Put one in the shower for shampoo, one at each sink
for the soap pump and one in the galley to hold pan spray.
Stove Wrap (www.stovewrap.com) is an inexpensive solution to one
of the galley’s most vexing cleaning chores. Introduced in household
and RV markets, it’s a non-stick, non-flammable, washable, reus-
able splatter guard for stove tops. The $25 do-it-yourself kit, which
includes the FDA-approved, food safe material plus measuring and
circle cutting tools, also includes a 16- by 14-inch oven liner. The
coated fiberglass material, heat tolerant to 550 degrees Fahrenheit,
protects the entire stove top, leaving gas or electric burners exposed.
Flooring
Companies like Infinity Luxury Woven Vinyl
(www.infinitylwv.com) have helped improve houseboats by offering
premier flooring that is proven to withstand even the most demand-
ing environments. The unique, heavy-traffic rated vinyl backing
makes this flooring ideal for indoor and outdoor use on all types of
surfaces.
Infinity’s product line has grown to over 18 collections and over
180 colors, including the very popular Seagrass collection.
Climate Control
An Innovation Award winner at the 2017 Miami International Boat
show, Webasto’s new BlueCool air handlers feature its Instant Drain
Management Condensate System. Water draining into the wrong
place creates problems with growths, bad smells, wood rot, etc. The
company’s new diversion system doesn’t allow condensate to accu-
mulate, even in choppy seas. For more information on the company’s
compact cooling and heating contact
www.webasto-marine.com.
About the Author

Janet Groene is a professional journalist and
Financing a member of Boating Writers International.
She and her late husband, Gordon Groene,
As lenders become more comfortable with the risks and benefits
lived full-time on the go for ten years. “Living
of making loans for second homes, RV’s and boats, the goal of living
Aboard” is a recurring column that focuses on
aboard comes closer. An impressive choice of loan products is avail- living on your houseboat. Janet’s newest book,
able to finance or re-finance new and used houseboats. For example, The Survival Food Handbook (International
Suntrust.com offers conventional boat loans as well as its unsecured Marine Books), is a guide to provisioning and
LightStream Boat Loan of up to $100,000 for buyers with good cred- cooking with common supermarket ingredients
it. In the event you want U.S. Coast Guard federal documentation for to carry in your pantry. Janet posts new galley
the boat, they can even lead you through the process. Q recipes weekly at www.BoatCook.blogspot.com. Q

Financing Your Dreams
Now is the time to buy a houseboat
By Heather Magda Serrano
W
ith historically low rates, great loan program avail- sales had dropped off significantly.
ability and the banks more aggressively approving As a result, a large number of houseboats available for sale
loans, now would appear to be the primetime to today are almost exclusively over 10 years old.
consider financing your future houseboat. “Having financing for older boats going back as old as 30
Joey Gottfried, Newcoast Financial Services’ regional manag- years is really critical to sustain the industry and to provide a
er in Clearwater, Fla., has had is eye on the houseboat industry path for people to upgrade,” added Gottfried. “This is because
for the past 27 years. if people can’t sell their older boats, it makes it much harder to
“It’s a niche I’ve always specialized in,” said Gottfried, “and I upgrade.”
cater to the houseboat market because houseboat buyers are Now that financing older boats is an option, most of the
great to work with.” sales come from boats older than 2008. Gottfried received an
From Gottfried’s point of view, the houseboat industry has application today for a 1989 houseboat and he pointed out
been on the rise, especially in the last two years. A significant that if this same buyer had been trying to buy this boat five
part of the industry’s growing success is due to the fact that years ago, he wouldn’t have been able to make the purchase.
financing is now available for older boats.
Now Is The Time
Getting Older Rates are at the lowest levels they’ve ever been, and what’s
After the infamous Great Recession, the banks were more on more, they’ve been stable for the past 10 years. The sheer
the tight-fisted side, and wouldn’t allow the financing of boats amount of loan programs and lenders make the prospect of
older than 10 years. During the same time, houseboat produc- buying your new dream boat more attractive and possible than
tion dropped to an all-time low. Manufacturers weren’t making ever. The fact that the banks started approving older house-
as many boats in the post-recession period because houseboat boat financing shows their eagerness to approve loans.

“So far as the rates, terms and pro- Sounds pretty easy, doesn’t it? It will
grams that are available, and how aggres- be if you make sure to keep track of a few
sive the banks are, all of those are aces personal things before financing your
right now,” said Gottfried. “It’s a really boat.
good time.”
Keep In Mind
Financing Process Pierce pointed out that once approved
As far as the process goes for financ- for the loan, it’s pretty much a walk in
ing your new houseboat, it’s pretty sim- the park.
ple, so don’t let anybody scare you with Isn’t that the truth. You will make
gobbledygook terminology. your life a lot easier if you begin keeping
Keith Pierce, Community Trust Bank’s track of things that could affect your
branch manager loan officer, makes a eligibility for loans before you apply for
good point in saying, “Every financial Then, once you receive approval, take one. A couple things that lenders will
institution is a little different.” your time looking at the terms and de- want to see are your credit score and
Even though rates and terms may vary, ciding if it’s right for you. If everything your job history.
the general process of financing your looks to be ship-shape, go ahead and I know you’ve heard it all before, but
houseboat stays just about the same. It move forward. I’ll say it again: Credit is a big deal.
goes something like this: Now you’re going to need a marine Banks want to see that you’ve already
First, call different financial insti- survey. Pierce explained that the survey financed some larger-ticket items so
tutions such as Newcoast Financial is basically like a houseboat inspection they can trust you to make your future
Services or Community Trust Bank to and appraisal for the boat you plan on payments. Also, when financing house-
discuss rates and terms. buying. boats, if there is more than one person
Once you decide who to go with, Once you turn in your marine survey, applying for the loan, both parties will
you’ll typically have to fill out an applica- along with any other documentation need to be approved individually, so it’s
tion and turn it in. Usually, applications from the seller, your bank will prepare extremely important to keep track of and
can be filled out over the computer and the loan documents. Once you’ve signed build your credit.
then emailed back. Gottfried said buyers these documents, they will fund your It would also be in your best interest
generally hear back in a couple days. houseboat loan. to note that the average down payment

36-inch Diameter
Modular
Plastic Pontoons
The Best Idea Since the Indian Canoe
Hull design for high performance and greater lift
sUses: Pontoon boats, houseboats,

work boats — replace old steel or
aluminum pontoons
sHeavy-duty: Molded from
sturdy, medium density
polyethylene (MDPE) and filled
with polyurethane foam for
increased stability
sModular: Each bow, middle, and
stern modules are 10 ft. in length
s$ISPLACEMENTATFULL
submersion: Bow module
supports gross weight of 3,100 ASK ABOUT OUR HOUSEBOAT INVESTMENT PROGRAM.
lbs. and middle/stern each
supports 4,200 lbs.
2869 Charlevoix St.

We have used houseboats for sale.
The Villages, FL 32163-2019
phone: 419-675-0002
TOLLFREE
email: info@wilsonpontoons.com 1.800.558.0881
www.plasticpontoon.com twinanchorsmfg.com
Creating Wonderful Houseboating

Memories For Over 20 Years!
Licensed & Insured Large
Houseboat Transportation: Up to 135'
www.sunstarhouseboats.com
Click or call today (606) 348-676498
boats, there’s a ten- be done in as little as 7 to 10 days. How-
dency to compare ever, the process usually takes an average
it to real estate, of a couple of weeks because buyers like
but Gottfried to take things in steps and not rush.
pointed out that
this is not quite an Closing Advice
accurate compar- Gottfried said the best advice he
ison because the could give to first-time buyers would be
houseboat financ- to get on the phone with somebody who
ing industry is not has experience because they can talk
regulated the same you through the process and explain
way the housing what it takes to qualify. Houseboat fi-
industry is. The nancing is specialized and speaking to a
for a houseboat is 20 percent, so don’t housing industry comes with tons of specialist like Gottfried or Pierce would
let that take you by surprise. It’s not like regulations that don’t exist for house- be the best course of action.
buying a car or a house where you only boats. This slew of regulations makes the So what are you waiting for? Get
pay 5 or 10 percent down. process of buying real estate far more on the phone with someone like Joey
Then there’s job history. Pierce said expensive, tedious and time-consuming. Gottfried or Keith Pierce today, and
lenders prefer customers to have at least Gottfried said that total closing finance that houseboat you’ve been
two or three years at the same job and costs including UPS fees, Coast Guard dreaming about! Q
then many more years before that in the documentation, processing, underwrit-
same line of work. Keep track of your ing and applications is under $1,000. HELPFUL RESOURCE S
paystubs and tax returns so that you can If you’ve ever bought a house, you know
have them handy when they’re needed how much higher closing costs are. The Community Trust Bank
because you can be sure that your lend- difference is astronomical. 270-789-5901
er will ask to see them. www.ctbi.com
Financing your houseboat is also
a fairly quick process. For real estate, Newcoast Financial Services
Unlike Real Estate you’re lucky to get through the process 866-639-2627
When it comes to financing house- in 6 weeks, but for houseboats you can www.newcoast.com

2018
Buyer’s Guide
Section
New manufacturers, ownership changes
and the return of an industry giant are just
some of the highlights to this
year’s Buyer’s Guide.
The houseboating industry
is rocking again and the following
pages provide a closer look
at the top builders.
By
6WDσ

Adonia Yachts
928-660-9746
Photography by Nick Laessig Photography, www.nicklaessig.com

www.adoniayachts.com
Running at full capacity from its 60,000-square-foot manufac-

turing facility in St. George, Utah, Adonia Yachts is always looking
to take things to the next level with unique, high-end builds that
evidence the latest in technology and design. President Dave Taylor
is backed by nearly two decades of experience in the houseboat
design, manufacturing, service and remodel business, and that fact
is clear when your eye is drawn to these gorgeous models.
Last year proved exciting as customers challenged Adonia
Yachts to design and build some of the biggest, most complex
yachts out there. Responding with fully-enclosed multi-story living
areas, Nana Wall technology, and two-story open atriums, it’s obvi-
ous this manufacturer is up to the task.
With all steps of the manufacturing business personally looked
over in-house at the facility, the Adonia Yachts team focuses on
ensuring that everything from the exterior to the smallest interior
touches are designed to appeal. The company is named after
Adonis, the Greek god of beauty and desire, after all, so it’s little
wonder Adonia Yachts embraces these qualities to the fullest.
them a houseboat, but they are really a luxury yacht.”
'DWH)RXQGHG 2013 – Craig Czar, Lake Powell, Utah
/RFDWLRQ St. George, Utah
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ Adonia Custom Looking to 2018
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 18’ X 75’ Adonia is looking forward to 2018 as customers demand inno-
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH24’ X 112’ vative design and technological advances. This continues to inspire
+XOO'HVLJQ Custom Aluminum Hull its design and engineering teams to build the best. Things to look
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQV Lakes, Rivers and Intracoastal for this year will be Adonia’s innovative PWC docking system and
,QKRXVH7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ Yes its smart home technology with fully-automated Audio/Video and
,QKRXVH,QWHULRU'HFRUDWLQJYes Lighting Control. Keep an eye on Adonia’s Facebook page for these
new industry-setting designs.
Owner Quote
¸>LOH]LILLU^HP[PUNMVY`LHYZ[VÄUKHTHU\MHJ[\YLY[VI\PSK What’s Trending Now?
us a ‘high-end’ houseboat, and we are so happy that we chose “Clients are wanting to go bigger with 24-foot beams, builds
(KVUPH@HJO[Z;OL`HYLÄYZ[JSHZZPUSVVRZM\UJ[PVUHUKZ\WWVY[ over 100 feet long, deep hull designs, fully-enclosed multi-levels,
People recognize them as the best on the water, and you may call more overall yacht-style designs, and diesel-powered direct drives.”
–Dave Taylor, President

Bravada Yachts Owner Quote
“We chose Bravada for the unique customization choices. The
602-233-2628 look of the V70 is the most aggressive styling boat available and
the look is in the vein of a sporty yacht. We were updated along the
www.BravadaYachts.com build process with a blog showing progress of our boat. We were
able to choose everything from how much shade we wanted on
With new owners at the helm in June 2017 and a state-of- the top deck to where the daybeds were placed. We added a hot
the-art manufacturing plant completed in Tolleson, Ariz., Bravada tub and an oversized refrigerator and were even able to choose the
Yachts is ready to make true on its “Be Bold” motto and bring on exact length we wanted – exactly 69 feet, 11 inches for a discount
rapid growth as it seeks to craft exceptional memory-making expe- on slip fees (70 feet and under is less than 70 feet and over).”
riences for families everywhere. The team has plans to more than – Kevin Kennedy, Lake Powell, Ariz.
double their employees by this summer to keep pace with demand
as these sleek models are made more accessible than ever. For ex- Looking to 2018
HTWSL[VJH[LY[VÄYZ[[PTLI\`LYZVY[OVZLÔVKVU»[SP]LVUHSHRL With new owners, new equipment, a new factory and a bold
and have to travel to go houseboating just a few times a year, Bra- new vision, all 2018 Bravada models have been redesigned and
]HKHPZUV^VќLYPUNMHJ[VY`KPYLJ[ZOHYLZVU¸T\S[PVÛLYIVH[Z¹ modernized to continue driving the houseboating and lake yachting
helping pair up fellow potential boat partners. Factory-direct also industries forward. The 2018 lineup includes a wider selection of
means buyers will avoid paying traditional mark-up costs added custom models, lengths and pricing. You can expect to see Brava-
to the purchase price by a re-seller. Since these mark-ups usually da Yachts at more lakes and marinas all across the country in the
add up to 20 percent, Bravada’s new factory-direct solution means coming years.
huge savings are passed on to the buyer. Couple that with splitting
[OLJVZ[ZHTVUNÄ]L[V[LUWHY[ULYZHUK`V\JHUZLLOV^LHZ`P[PZ What’s Trending Now?
to enjoy what Bravada has coined “Attainable Luxury.” “In 2018 you will see more boats with full smart boat automa-
With bold, innovative designs, quality craftsmanship, and high [PVUI\PS[PUÄYLWP[ZV]LYZPaLKOV[[\IZJ\Z[VT^PUKWYLJH\[PVUZ
performance backing each build, this high-end yacht builder is HUKUL^SPNO[^LPNO[L_[LYPVYÄUPZOLZ¹
ready to make some waves. –Aaron Browning, CEO
'DWH)RXQGHG 2010
/RFDWLRQ Tolleson, Ariz.
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ22’ X 75’ (3 Levels)
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 16’ X 65’ (2 Levels)
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 24’ X 110’ (4 Levels)
+XOO'HVLJQFull Aluminum Hull
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQV Lakes, Rivers, and Intracoastal
,QKRXVH7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ Yes
,QKRXVH,QWHULRU'HFRUDWLQJ Yes

Destination Yachts
812-254-8800 www.destinationyachts.com
This manufacturer has a long-standing reputation for getting Owner Quote

everyone making memories out on the water without breaking the “Working with Destina-
bank. With every Destination Yachts build, classic Amish craftsman- tion Yachts was wonderful!
ship shakes hands with artfully innovative use of elements such as Sheldon and his crew com-
MYLZO^HSSMLH[\YLZHUKJ\Z[VTÄ_[\YLZVUIVHYK0UMHJ[[OPZZLUZL bine high integrity, stunning
of innovation has pervaded the Indiana-based company clear since design and great value. We
owner Sheldon Graber and his brother Terry originally sold their loved meeting the actual
Myacht company to Tracker Marine. It was after this that Sheldon people who built our boat.
jumped into building twin hull houseboats designed to strike a Key features for us were the
OHYTVUPV\ZWVZLIL[^LLUS\_\Y`HUKLJVUVTPJX\HSP[`ÄSSPUNHOVSL excellent twin hull design,
that was previously plaguing the industry. Ever since, the expanding the meticulous Amish craftsmanship and the wide menu of useful
Destination Yachts team has worked to create unique customized options. We love our I Series houseboat!”
houseboats ranging from 35 to 100 feet long with features that indi- – Tammy Dillon, Lake Monroe, Ind.
]PK\HSS`WSLHZLLHJOJ\Z[VTLYHUKHYLIV[OLSLNHU[HUKHќVYKHISL
Ever since the facility upgrade in 2014, Destination Yachts has Looking to 2018
been able to develop price point houseboats starting at $95,000 In the coming year, Destination Yachts is focusing particularly on
ÔPSLHSZVL_WSVYPUNP[ZS\_\Y`,SP[LZLYPLZL]LUM\Y[OLYLќLJ[P]LS` upgrading its products and services for its customers.
bringing even more options to houseboaters across the nation.
What’s Trending Now?
'DWH)RXQGHG 1998 “Simplicity with high-quality products. Customers want easy
/RFDWLRQWashington, Ind. maintenance with the right features.”
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ 16’ X 50’ –Sheldon Graber, President
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH10’ X 35’
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 20’ X 100’
+XOO'HVLJQ Twin Hull / Full Hull Aluminum/ Fiberglass Twin Hull
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQLakes, Rivers and Intracoastal
,QKRXVH7UDQVSRUWDWLRQYes
,QKRXVH,QWHULRU'HVLJQHU Yes

EIGHT SIZES FOR BOATS UP TO 150-FT
The World’s
Best Anchor
CHESAPEAKE BAY SOFT MUD ANCHOR TESTS (AVG. MAX LOAD)
Fortress FX-37 (21 lbs) 1,862 lbs

45° Shank / Fluke Angle
Danforth HT (35 lbs) 990 lbs
Ultra (46 lbs) 842 lbs
Mantus (45 lbs) 680 lbs
Manson Supreme (45 lbs) 650 lbs

Fortress disassembles
Spade (44 lbs) 546 lbs and offers adjustable
flukes for superior
anchoring hold in varied
Lewmar CQR (45 lbs) 536 lbs
bottom conditions.
Rocna (44 lbs) 350 lbs
Testing conducted aboard R/V Rachel Carson, Solomons, MD, August 5-8, 2014.
Full test results can be found at www.FortressAnchors.com
www.FortressAnchors.com | (800) 825-6289 | Made in the USA

Eco-Sea Cottages
206-297-1330
www.eco-seacottage.com
Owner Quote
:[H`[\ULK;OLÄYZ[:(=(5;0TVKLS^VU»[ILSH\UJOLK\U[PS
March 2018.
Looking to 2018
>P[OJSPLU[ZÅ`PUNPU[V[V\Y[OL:(=(5;0TVJR\WH[[OL:LH[[SL
Wash., facility, they’re able to customize exactly what layouts and
amenities they want in a boat. ESC is even creating a SAVANTI
-Cruiser with an open shower and adjoining wood soaking tub at
one client’s request. As of Fall 2017, these SAVANTIS were already
back-ordered out to May 2018.

Eco-Sea Cottages embraces the comfortable dockside and the ¸,ZWLJPHSS`HSVUN[OL<:7HJPÄJJVHZ[TVYLHUKTVYLVM
adventurous roaming side of houseboating. Following the hit debut our limited number of marinas are placing moratoriums on the
of its original stationary wood-framed houseboats at the Seattle In- addition of any new houseboats. This is part of the reason for the
The-Water Boat Show ten years ago, ESC began a tradition: add- :(=(5;0JY\PZLYTVKLS0[PZHZT\JOHÄILYNSHZZJY\PZPUN`HJO[HZ
PUNHUV[OLYUL^KLZPNULHJO`LHYHUKVќLYPUNHLHYSÌPYK HU`)H`SPULYVY:LH9H`HUK[O\Z0:HJJLW[LKPUTVZ[HU`7HJPÄJ
KPZJV\U[ZP_TVU[OZILMVYLP[ZÄYZ[SH\UJO;LU`LHYZSH[LY,:*UV^ Coast marina, from Canada to Mexico. We hasten to add: it’s not
OHZ[LUKPќLYLU[TVKLSZMYVT[VMLL[PUJS\KPUN[OLPYTVKLYU HOV\ZLIVH["P[»ZHÄILYNSHZZJY\PZPUN`HJO[ÔPJOQ\Z[OHWWLUZ
metal-framed BoxSea models (highly-customized cargo containers) to have an interior layout that rivals any same-length, permanently
HUKUV^[OLPYKYHTH[PJHSS`KPќLYLU[HSSÄILYNSHZZ:(=(5;0TVKLSZ KVJRLKOV\ZLIVH[(ZZ\JO^LILSPL]L[OLHSSÄILYNSHZZ:(=(5;0
The latter bring ESC full circle, with the SAVANTI Cruiser capable will soon represent the majority of our sales. However, we regularly
of handling the Great Loop’s 6,000 miles at speeds up to 19.6 hear from folks still wanting the ‘rustic charm’ of a wood-framed,
mph. Factor in the standard rugged resin-infused catamaran hulls, house-like houseboat. And, fully 60 percent of the current U.S.
shallow 18-inch draft, solid bow bulwark, 7Kw genset, heat and marinas accept them for full-time dockage.”
air conditioning, electric anchor windlass, 100- to 250-horsepower –Rod Gibbons, Manager/Founder
motor, and bow thruster and you’re set up for a genuine long-term
adventure.
The SAVANTI also comes in a dockside Liveaboard model, with
a big recessed upper deck (like the Cruiser) or a fully-enclosed
upper penthouse. Both models are completely custom-built and
range from 28 to 45 feet long with up to four bedrooms. The Cruis-
er debuts in March and, for a limited time, includes free delivery for
buyers within the 48 states.
'DWH)RXQGHG 2007
/RFDWLRQ Seattle, Wash.
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ SAVANTI 36
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 14’ X 28’
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 18’ X 50’ (2-story)
+XOO'HVLJQ Resin-Infused FG Cat Hulls
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQ Lakes, Rivers and Coastal Cruising

FLOE CRAFT
800-336-6337 www.floeintl.com
FLOE CRAFT has made a remarkable name for itself by adding to itself and the 3950 is one of the most versatile boats I have ever
a brand-new dynamic to the houseboating industry. Designed to seen. The AFINA 3950 is a perfect boat for any family who loves
capture all-purpose boating to the fullest, the AFINA line boasts year-round boating and all on-the-water activities from A-to-Z.”
a power-retractable roof and 12-foot power slide windows that –Greg Ray, Plano, Texas
give passengers full control over enjoying the comforts of the
sun and breeze or a cozy closed-climate environment, essentially Looking to 2018
extending their boating season. Easy beaching, breathless planing, FLOE CRAFT recently opened a new 120,000-square-foot facto-
HUKM\LSLѝJPLU[WLYMVYTHUJLHYLHSSILULÄ[ZVM[OLPU]LY[LK=JH[ ry incorporating the latest technologies in boat-building and added
O\SS»ZZOHSSV^KYHM[KLZPNU^P[OHQV`Z[PJRZ`Z[LT[OH[ZPTWSPÄLZ more than 25 people to the division. FLOE CRAFT’s AFINA Yachts
maneuverability. Quality touches from the four-zone marine stereo division is also busy expanding its dealer network with new dealers
system to the solid walnut cabinetry testify to more than 15 years of signed on in Canada, Missouri and Texas, with more expected in
development and an eye towards making sure this one-level living the coming months.
space for up to 20 people captures the comforts of home paired Product updates for the new year include the addition of out-
with the thrill of being on the water. And it is thrilling—the AFINA board engine options to expand into saltwater markets, new interior
3950 reaches speeds up to 50 miles per hour. styling, layout options, refrigerators, bigger generators, improved air
With newly expanded facilities, FLOE CRAFT is hard at work conditioning and much more. The FLOE CRAFT team is also adding
crafting more models and sizes as well as expanding its dealer a new line of wake sports boats.
network. One look is enough to know that this manufacturer is truly
all about maximizing the boating experience. What’s Trending Now?
“At FLOE we’re all about expressing new ideas. Our new AFINA
'DWH)RXQGHG1983 3950 has industry-leading features and amenities that resonate
/RFDWLRQ McGregor, Minn. with today’s buyers. We’re excited to be setting up dealers across
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ11’ X 39.5’ the country as well as attending key shows throughout the US and
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 11’ X 34’ Canada.”
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 11’ X 39.5’ – Wayne Floe, Owner
+XOO'HVLJQ Inverted V-Cat Hull
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQVLakes, Rivers and Intracoastal
Owner Quote
“Boating is the ultimate expression of freedom and the AFINA
3950 provides an innovative hybrid platform combining cutting edge
design, performance and features not previously available on a sin-
gle boat. The clever minds at AFINA have developed a category all

Gibson Boats S.D.
605-231-1052 www.gibsonboatssd.com
The iconic Gibson Boats legacy dates clear back to 1968 found- have looked at and been on numerous houseboats in the last ten
LY>PSSPHT*)Y\TTL[[*V\U[SLZZ`LHYZVMP[ZOPZ[VY`HYLÄSSLK^P[O years. We picked Gibson for a few reasons. It is a great-handling
the busy production of more than 6,000 boats by 1990. After the big boat (ours is 16 by 55 feet) that gets us in and out of coves
recession sadly forced the manufacturer out of business in 2013, ^P[OV\[HU`PZZ\LZ>LSV]L[OLHSSÄILYNSHZZJVUZ[Y\J[PVU;OL
this age-old brand had new life breathed into it when Kelly and Pam engines are out back where we can easily access them for routine
Cawthorne and their son Shane and his wife Danielle Cawthorne maintenance and it keeps any heat or smells out of the cabin area.
purchased the rights in 2017. Newly relocated to Tea, S.D., the >LOH]LHU,_LJ\[P]LTVKLSHUKSV]L[OLVWLUÅVVYWSHU^P[OH
*H^[OVYULZHYLL_JP[LK[VVќLYHM\SSWYVK\J[PVUSPULHZ^LSSHZ walkout back to a great rear covered deck. The lower level has
MVJ\ZPUNVUZLY]PJLÄILYNSHZZYLWHPYHUKYLM\YIPZOPUN(SYLHK` lots of room for our kids and grandkids. My wife loves the lower
loyal Gibson houseboaters have shown tremendous support as SL]LSZ[VYHNLZWHJL-VYV\YOVTLVU[OL^H[LYP[Ä[ZHSSV\YULLKZ
this hybrid cross between a houseboat and a cabin cruiser hits the Gibson of South Dakota has helped make our houseboat dreams
water once again. come true.”
The favorite 14- by 47-foot houseboat already shines out as – Steve and Bernadette Willuweit, Lake Francis Case, S.D.
the perfect size for families with enough room to play hard without
tipping the price too heavily. The smallest build is the 36-foot Play Looking to 2018
and Sport, which includes a mid deck for attaching a smaller swim Gibson Boats is looking forward to settling into its new home in
ZSPKLVYQ\TWWSH[MVYTHUKHU\WWLYÅÌYPKNL[OH[MLH[\YLZHSHYNL South Dakota. New changes in its boat line will include a wood-free
slide, rock wall and even a diving platform. Sizes stretch clear to the PUZLY[IVH[HZJ\Z[VTLYZHYLVќLYLKHULU[PYLS`ÄILYNSHZZI\PSK[V
59-footer with three staterooms, two large heads, and a generous eliminate water damage, bug damage, and smell characteristics—
galley and salon combo with plenty of room for just two or as many the three biggest complaints of many boat brands.
as ten for an extended water outing.
'DWH)RXQGHG 1968 ¸;YLUKPUNPUPZ[OLTV]L[VZTHSSLYIVH[ZMVYZVTLLѝJPLU
/RFDWLRQTea, S.D. cies and day-to-day cost savings at marinas. More and more peo-
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ14’ X 47’ ple want to keep boating, but ongoing costs are getting too high.”
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH12’ X 36’ – Kelly Cawthorne, Gibson Boats
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 16’ X 59’
+XOO'HVLJQ-PILYNSHZZ4VKPÄLK=O\SS
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQ Lakes, Rivers and Intracoastal
Owner Quote
“My wife and I have been boaters all our lives and we are always
excited to let everyone know we love our Gibson houseboat. We

Harbor Cottages Owner Quote
“I foresee retirees and current houseboat owners switching
to the Cottage houseboat because essentially they are mainte-
606-636-6426 nance-free. I have talked to a couple of current boat owners who

see the advantages. Interior decorating is easy since most of what
www.harborcottagehouseboats.com you need comes with the boat! These houseboats can be custom-
ized and priced for any income bracket. The interior space is more
conducive to ‘working’ from home.”
For such a unique design and wealth of amenities, Harbor – Pat Pendleton, Lake Cumberland, Ky.
*V[[HNLZTHRLZNVVKVUP[ZNVHS[VRLLWOV\ZLIVH[PUNHќVYK-
able so more people can get out and enjoy the lifestyle. These Looking to 2018
LULYN`LѝJPLU[SV^THPU[LUHUJLOV\ZLIVH[ZHYLLUNPULLYLKHUK Harbor Cottage Houseboats has expanded its capacity with a
constructed in a way that allows people to customize aspects such new manufacturing facility location and some excellent new models
as spiral staircases, granite top wet bars with a stone exterior and for its customers to consider – including, of course, the 52- by 16-
Z[HPUSLZZZ[LLSMYPKNLVYMVV[ÄILYNSHZZWHY[`[VWZ^P[OLPNO[3,+ foot “tiny houseboat” that was featured on an episode of HGTV’s
lights and two fans. Everything from the professionally engineered, Tiny House, Big Living.
in-house welded aluminum displacement hull to the proprietary
isolation transformer that utilizes high-powered magnets to prevent What’s Trending Now?
Electric Shock Drowning (ESD) is a testament that this team of “Some of the most important trends we are paying attention
experienced naval architects knows exactly what it’s doing. You to and focusing our time on have to do with safety and energy
can even dictate whether or not you want a propulsion system – for LѝJPLUJ`(SSOV\ZLIVH[THU\MHJ[\YLYZJHUZV\YJL[OLZHTLTV-
those who tend to stay in their slips, this will cut down on cost and tors, generators and thrusters, but few are pushing the boundaries
maintenance. And if you change your mind later, it’s a simple matter ^P[OPUUV]H[P]LKLZPNUZ[OH[JHUPTWYV]L[OLLULYN`LѝJPLUJ`VMH
to add a high-performing engine and thruster package to get you vessel (which directly impacts the ongoing cost of ownership) so
out to that private cove on the weekends. drastically. Additionally, we have developed some proprietary safe-
ty features so critical that we believe these advancements, like dual
'DWH)RXQGHG2016 isolation transformers, should be mandated as industry standards.”
/RFDWLRQ Nancy, Ky. – Jimmy Hamilton, President
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ 16’ X 52’
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 16’ X 52’
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 16’ X 84’
+XOO'HVLJQ Aluminum Displacement Hull
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQV Saltwater, Brackish and/or Freshwater
,QKRXVH7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ No
,QKRXVH,QWHULRU'HFRUDWLQJYes

Majestic Yachts
270-385-9828
www.majesticyachts.com
4HQLZ[PJ@HJO[Z!ÔPJO[^V^VYKZHYLIL[[LYÄ[[LKMVYLHJOV[OLY
than those? Majestic Yachts invites its customers to “Live Like Roy-
HS[`¹VUVULVM[OLPYÄULS`THU\MHJ[\YLKZLHMHYPUN]LZZLSZ4HQLZ[PJ
builds yachts, houseboats, sea cottages, and other sea crafts that
Q\Z[Ä[PU[V[OLLZZLUJLVMÔH[[OL`Z[HUKMVY;OV\NOUV[X\P[L
years old, this company has fought through the houseboat industry
to make a name for itself. Additionally, the combined experience of
the builders totals over 80 years of commitment and dedication to
the art of ship building. Their expertise in the areas of building and
restoration really helps them as they work to improve both older
and newer models, especially considering how people with their old
models would rather refurbish than restart.
Majestic works toward expanding sales to a world-wide market
I`HKKPUNUL^WYVK\J[SPULZ\WNYHKPUN[OLPYZLY]PJLZHUKVќLYPUN
more. Majestic has the magic touch and it’s only growing stronger
as it progresses.
'DWH)RXQGHG2000
/RFDWLRQColumbia, Ky.
%HVWVHOOLQJ)ORRU3ODQ 18’ X 80’
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 8’6” X 28’
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 20’ X 102’ (2-Story, 4-Deck)
+XOO'HVLJQV Semi-V Mono Hull
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQ Lakes and Rivers
,QKRXVH7UDQVSRUWDWLRQYes Looking to 2018
,QKRXVH,QWHULRU'HFRUDWLQJ Yes 4HQLZ[PJ@HJO[ZPZHU[PJPWH[PUNHZPNUPÄJHU[PUJYLHZLPU[OLZHSLVM
new houseboats this year.
Owner Quote
“Majestic Yachts listened to our dream and made it become a What’s Trending Now?
reality. They took a personal interest in us and customized our boat, ¸;OL[YLUK^L»YLZLLPUNTVYLHUKTVYLVMPZLѝJPLU[OV\ZL
anticipating all the details that make it easy to operate and a haven IVH[ZHUK[OLKPќLYLU[^H`ZWLVWSLLUQV`[OLT¹
of happiness for us.” – Ben and Jonette Gadd – Jim E. Hadley, President/CEO

Overblue Yachts
510-610-6213
www.overblue.it
-V\UKLKI`LU[YLWYLUL\Y9HќHLSL.YV[[PHUKJYHM[LKPUJVSSHI- Owner Quote

oration with established design studio Foschi & Nolletti, the aim “The Overblue Yacht is the best of both worlds between cata-
of Overblue Yachts is to set a new standard of living on the water. maran and a modern houseboat.”
With that in mind, this manufacturer designed a yacht that brings –Rok Babarovik, Lake Powell, Utah
home comfort, easy maintenance, and cruising in all conditions to
the table. Based on the stability and maneuverability of a power Looking to 2018
catamaran crossed with the comfort and living footprint of a house- Overblue Yachts is expanding rapidly to the US market and is
boat, Overblue is backed by a team with passion for boating and looking forward to strengthening its position with four new dealers
a practiced eye. This is evident in the yacht’s displacement power HUK[^VVѝJLZHSYLHK`VWLUPU-VY[3H\KLYKHSL-SHHUK2UV_]PSSL
catamaran design, engineered to cut down on hydrodynamic drag Tenn. Considering the design concept and recent positive accep-
MVYM\LSLѝJPLU[WLYMVYTHUJLHUKYLK\JLWLUK\S\TLќLJ[[OH[JHU tance of the US market, the team believes that their production
make being on the water less comfortable. Maneuverability is also will have to expand and provide at least 20 units a year for the US
increased thanks to the twin hulls that make for higher hydrostatic market in the future.
drag, which lessens lateral wind sensitivity during maneuvering or
anchoring. What’s Trending Now?
:PUJLP[ZÄYZ[TVKLS»ZL_JP[PUNPU[YVK\J[PVUH[[OL0U[LYUH[PVUHS “We believe boating is changing a lot. People live very fast
Cannes Yachting festival, Overblue Yachts has crafted the Overblue and they put a lot of focus on comfort and practicality. This is
44 to the soon-to-come Overblue Typhoon in its lineup. Keep a ÔLYL6]LYIS\LPZ]LY`NVVKHUKVќLYZ\UTH[JOHISLZWHJL]VS\TL
sharp eye out as these gorgeous builds keep expanding into the US and comfort for the price with ability to cruise around.”
market. ¶9HќHLSL.YV[[P6ÛLY
'DWH)RXQGHG 2014
/RFDWLRQ Cologne (Brescia), Italy
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ Overblue 58 (4 cabins)
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 13’ 8” X 44’
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH20’ 4” X 68’
+XOO'HVLJQ Power Catamaran
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQV6ќZOVYL*VHZ[HS
,QKRXVH7UDQVSRUWDWLRQNo

Sailabration Houseboats
865-947-4234 www.sailabrationhouseboats.com
Sailabrate good times; come on! For nearly 20 years, Sailabra-

tion has been specializing in custom designed houseboats for those
with preferred styles, restricted budgets, or interest in additional
features. From the practical to the lavish, to the funky and creative,
Sailabration prides itself on its unique ability to accommodate every
customer’s preferences. This level of customization gives customers
the advantage of being involved at every step of the process and
truly building not just a boat, but a bond between owner and boat.
This process ensures that each Sailabration houseboat is really a
homeboat. While each houseboat is unique to its owner, Sailabra-
tion remains consistently low-maintenance and easily handled on
the water. The simple yet beautiful furnishings speak for themselves:
X\HSP[`JYHM[ZTHUZOPWPZHKLÄUP[L[YHKLTHYRVM[OPZJVTWHU`
Not only does this manufacturer build and sell customized Looking to 2018
OV\ZLIVH[ZI\[P[HSZVVќLYZYLTVKLSPUNHUKYLM\YIPZOPUNZLY]PJLZ Sailabration is looking forward to increased sales and expansion
So no matter where a boater is at with their houseboat, Sailabration of its product line to include US Coast Guard Inspected vessels for
can assist them in every phase. Now that’s something to sailabrate. charter. This will allow them to expand their customer base to those
ÔV^PZO[VVќLY¸-VY/PYL¹]LZZLSZ;OL`HYLJ\YYLU[S`^VYRPUNVU
'DWH)RXQGHG 1999 a couple of projects in conjunction with the US Coast Guard. Also,
/RFDWLRQPowell, Tenn. [OLWSHUPZ[VSH\UJOP[ZÄYZ[ MVV[^PKLILHTIVH[PU[OLZWYPUNVM
%HVW6HOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ 16’ X 77’ Single Cuddy 2018. This boat will have the largest pontoons to date, 50 inches in
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH14’ X 42’ diameter.
+XOO'HVLJQAluminum Cylindrical 44” to 48” Pontoons What’s Trending Now?
w/ Air Tight Partitions “Boats are trending larger. Also, we are receiving much more
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQV Lakes, Rivers and Intracoastal interest in boats for 100 percent liveaboard applications. Another
,QKRXVH7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ Yes thing we’ve noticed is potential clients are noting that the twin hull
,QKRXVH,QWHULRU'HFRUDWLQJ Yes design is becoming very important from a safety aspect.”
–Bryan Lambert, President/CEO
Owner Quote
¸;OL`THRLHÄULX\HSP[`WYVK\J[HUK[OLPYZLY]PJLPZL_JLSSLU[
We love the houseboat, the interior of is really beautiful; it has all
hardwood cabinets and we had them custom made. The boat is
L_[YLTLS`M\LSLѝJPLU[HUK)Y`HU3HTILY[PZH]LYÙPJLTHUÔV
does a good job.” -John Poore

Stardust Cruisers Owner Quote
“Stardust Yachts are truly the ‘Yachtyest’ houseboats on the
lake. We’ve owned four houseboats and I’ve always admired the
606-340-3191 look and build quality of Stardust over any other brand. The exterior
OHZ[OLILZ[SPULZHUK[OLPU[LYPVYZHYLÄUPZOLK^P[O\UPX\LZ[`SL¹
www.stardustcruisers.com –Mike Rorie, Owners of Countdown
Looking to 2018
Once a stand-alone pioneer in the business of houseboats, :[HYK\Z[PZJVTPUNVќHNYLH[`LHYPUHUKSVVRPUNMVY^HYK
Stardust has fought its way through the rough seas of the boating to a successful 2018. The builder splashed one of its most custom
industry and has remained above water, holding its record of the and truly unique Stardust cruisers into Lake Cumberland in the fall
oldest continually-operating houseboat company. It is now part of of 2017 that will be a true showpiece for many years to come. Star-
Trifecta Ventures, but still boasts its own individuality as a company. dust plans on building on the momentum of the custom built market
:PUJLP[ZÄYZ[Z[LLSO\SSJVUZ[Y\J[PVUPU P[OHZI\PS[TVYL[OHU in 2018 and anticipates the industry continuing on its upswing.
1,500 custom vessels to date, and continues to blow others out
of the water with the incredible craftsmanship and design of its What’s Trending Now?
houseboats. ¸;OLHў\LU[I\`LYPZSVVRPUNH[L]LUTVYLJ\Z[VT^VVK^VYR-
With its patented web frame design, it is able to further fortify ing options along with an increase in electronics and electrical
the entire structure, and new hull improvements combined with packages.”
KPYLJ[KYP]LVY=KYP]LWV^LYJVUÄN\YH[PVUZYLHSS`NP]L:[HYK\Z[ – Chris Girdler, Trifecta President
[OL\WWLYOHUKTHRPUNP[IV[OLHZPSÒHUKSLKHUKWSLU[`LѝJPLU[
*VU]LUPLU[S`:[HYK\Z[HSZVOHZP[ZVÛÄILYNSHZZZOVWVUZP[LHUK
specializes in custom woodwork and cabinetry, meaning that the
work is always a fresh take on their traditional, stylish designs.
'DWH)RXQGHG1965
/RFDWLRQMonticello, Ky.
%HVW6HOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ 18’ x 85’
Four-bedroom design
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 22’ X 120
+XOO'HVLJQ All Aluminum Standard Barge
and Cruiser Style Hulls
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQVLakes, Rivers and Intracoastal

Sumerset Houseboats
606-340-3191
www.sumerset.com
Sumerset is set for a lot longer than just the summer. Since last because the build process is just too much fun.
1953, Sumerset has been cranking out beautifully designed and –Paul Robinson, Owner of Another Approach
easy-going houseboats. It all started when Jim Sharpe built a
10- by 24-foot steel bottom with a scow bow more than 60 years Looking to 2018
ago, and today we see how the fruits of that one project have Being the oldest and most well-known name in the industry,
proliferated. Sharpe envisioned Sumerset as a quality crafter of Sumerset anticipates continuing to see an up-tick in orders as
houseboats, and that became its unique identity. In 2010, Sumerset 2017 was the best year for the company since 2008. Sumerset is
joined Trifecta Ventures and now grows under that umbrella, while building a large array of custom houseboats along with large rental
still distinguishing its craft by clinging to Sharpe’s vision. ÅLL[Z[OYV\NOV\[[OLJV\U[Y`PU;OLPU[LYLZ[PU:\TLYZL[OHZ
As the company grows, it aims to build low-maintenance vessels continued to grow tremendously over the past several years.
while focusing on a better hull and stronger frame with improved
YVVÄUNZ`Z[LTZ·HSSVMÔPJOOH]LIYV\NO[[OLJVTWHU`T\JO What’s Trending Now?
success in years past. And with the timeless glass wall construc- “While Sumerset continues to set benchmarks for quality as well
[PVU[OLL_[LYPVYZYLÅLJ[HWVSPZOLKHWWLHYHUJL[OH[ZL[Z[OLT as overall brand awareness, we see a trend toward value. Many
apart from the others. houseboat clients are looking for custom-build vessels, yet hoping
[VRLLW[OL[YHKP[PVUHSOV\ZLIVH[MLLSHUKÅHYLHSVUN^P[OHOPZ[VYP-
'DWH)RXQGHG 1953 cally high resale value.”
/RFDWLRQMonticello, Ky. – Chris Girdler, Trifecta President
%HVW6HOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ 19’ X 90’
+XOO'HVLJQAll Aluminum Mono Hulls
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQV Lakes, Rivers and Intracoastal
Owner Quote
“I just purchased a 2018 Sumerset houseboat and I can tell
you that the entire process was exciting and very professional. We
can’t say enough good things about Chris Girdler, he was on top of
L]LY`[OPUNZ[HY[[VÄUPZO[VTHRLZ\YLL]LY`[OPUN^HZ[OL^H`^L
wanted and his attention to detail was second to none. Debbie in
the design center was awesome, she was great to work with and
has a great eye for the interior design of the boat. This is not my
ÄYZ[OV\ZLIVH[HUKP[PZHILH\[PM\SI\[P[WYVIHIS`^PSSUV[ILT`

SummerSun Houseboats
844-926-8824
www.harborcottagehouseboats.com/summersun-houseboats
A sister company to Harbor Cottage Houseboats, SummerSun
Houseboats just jumped on the scene in 2017 and is ready to show
the industry its own take on traditional houseboats. Ideally situated
in one of the country’s biggest houseboating hotspots, this Lake
Cumberland-based manufacturer specializes in a professionally-en-
gineered aluminum displacement hull that’s welded in-house. Cus-
[VTLYZ^PSSHSZVHWWYLJPH[L[OLÄILYNSHZZWHULSZPKPUN^P[ONYHWOPJZ
HS\TPU\THUKTLZOVYJHU]HZYHPSPUNZHUKPU[LYPVYZZOV^PUNVќ
custom wood paneling and lovely yacht-style ceilings. These builds
HYLM\SS`PUZ\SH[LKPU[OL^HSSZÅVVYHUKJLPSPUNÔPJOÔLUWHPYLK
with high-quality windows, helps retain the warmth put out by the
LѝJPLU[JLU[YHSOLH[W\TW;OLHPY`KLZPNUVM[OLZWHJPV\ZYVVM
deck and the full-sized toilet, wide vanity, and bathtub are perfect
for soaking in the view and relaxing the days away on the water.
'DWH)RXQGHG2017
/RFDWLRQ Nancy, Ky. PZ[OLÄYZ[`LHYJ\Z[VTLYZ^PSSOH]LHIL[[LYUL^LYVW[PVU[OH[Z[PSS
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ 84’ X 16’ YLÅLJ[Z[OLSVVRHUKMLLSVM[OLPUK\Z[Y`[OL`»]LHS^H`ZRUVÛHUK
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 84’ X 16’ SV]LK6UJLJ\Z[VTLYZ\UKLYZ[HUK[OL]HZ[KPќLYLUJLZPULUNPULLY-
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 84’ X 16’ PUNLULYN`LѝJPLUJ`HUKHќVYKHIPSP[`[OPZTHU\MHJ[\YLYILSPL]LZ
+XOO'HVLJQAluminum Displacement Hull they’ll be hard-pressed to look anywhere else.
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQV Saltwater, Brackish and/or Freshwater
,QKRXVH7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ No What’s Trending Now?
,QKRXVH,QWHULRU'HFRUDWLQJ Yes “In 2018 we are expecting customers are going to want more
bang for their buck, plain and simple. While some folks feel they
Owner Quote have to spend a million dollars or more to obtain the houseboat of
Brand-new for 2018, you can see a show boat available for tour- their dreams, many others are realizing that you don’t have to sacri-
ing at Lees Ford Marina at Lake Cumberland. ÄJL[OH[T\JOJHZOHUKJHUZ[PSSNL[L_HJ[S`ÔH[`V\^HU[-\Y[OLY
we think savvy buyers know that a houseboat is an investment and
Looking to 2018 [OL`KVU»[^HU[[VSVZLZVT\JO]HS\L[OLTVTLU[[OL`ºKYP]LP[Vќ
:\TTLY:\UPZVѝJPHSS`Z[HY[PUN[VIVVRJ\Z[VTLYZMVYP[ZÄYZ[ the lot.’ We believe SummerSun is uniquely positioned to meet this
year of production and the team is looking forward to bringing inno- KLTHUKPU[OLTHYRL[H[HWYPJLWLVWSLJHUHќVYK¹
vation to the traditional houseboat industry. For SummerSun, 2018 – Jimmy Hamilton, President

Sunstar Houseboats
606-348-6648
Just like the sun is one giant star, each houseboat from Sunstar
PZVULNPHU[WPLJLVMLHJOI\PSKLY»ZOLHY[:\UZ[HYVќLYZ[OL\UPX\L
ability for customers to work directly with the owners. There are no
middlemen—just a bunch of builders who get the job done. Each
builder contributes years of marine experience to their craft and it
shows in the unique style and build of each vessel. Sunstar aims to
spin dreams into reality with each custom touch of a houseboat.
Additionally, Sunstar has a brokerage partner business that they
continue to grow through in Sunstar Yacht Sales and Brokerage.
Aimed at getting all generations out on the water, they sell new and
used models to beckon to the young and old. They’re well-versed and his team demands for each boat they build. We have toured
PU[OLPYHY[HUKHUZ^LYX\LZ[PVUZHUKVќLYUL^HUKPTWYV]LKZLY- many brands of manufactures before purchasing and I personally
vices as often as they can. liked the simplicity of all the mechanical systems and the care
Whether searching for a new or used model, the team at Sun- taken to engineer the internal structure. When we started the build
Z[HYPZ^LSSLX\PWWLK[VÄUKHUKZ\P[[OLJ\Z[VTLY[V[OLWLYMLJ[ process George and his team were extremely accommodating in
model. answering question and also making available every option Sunstar
is capable of providing. George also keeps you engaged in every
'DWHIRXQGHG 1995 step to make you feel like you’re part of the build.”
/RFDWLRQMonticello, Ky. –Justin Busch, Murphysboro, Ill
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQ 16’ X 75’
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 16’ X 42’ Looking to 2018
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 20’ X 110’ According to the manufacturer, the past ten years have been a
+XOO'HVLJQAluminum Semi-V challenge just to stay in business. To weather the storm, Sunstar
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQ Lakes, Rivers, Intracoastal had to change its business strategy from new boats only to new
,QKRXVH7UDQVSRUWDWLRQYes boats, remodels, and transporting boats.
What’s Trending Now:
Owner Quote “I see boat owners doing more remodels on boats they own
“My wife and I decided to use Sunstar houseboats to build our versus buying new boats. I also see customers buying a larger or
boat due to the quality and attention to detail that George Roberts newer used boat.” – George Roberts, President

Thoroughbred
Houseboats
606-340-3191
www.tbboats.com
Kentucky didn’t become the houseboat capitol of the world by
chance; it was built by companies such as Thoroughbred who rose
from the passion back in the 1990s. Companies like Thoroughbred
have a rich history in their business, as the founder, Rob Parrish,
sought out other craftsmen to help him build one of the state’s
premium custom houseboats. Ever since then, they’ve been having
success in their boat constructing endeavors.
The classic interior of a Thoroughbred houseboat is built with Looking to 2018
glass sidewall construction that opens up the room for a more Thoroughbred Houseboats made a major splash within the
spacious arrangement. This assembly also allows for lovely views industry and a short amount of time since its entry over 20 years
of the water from the living area. This company as of late has ago. It continues to raise the bar on quality and options available to
ILLUMVJ\ZPUNVUKL]LSVWPUNTVYLÄILYNSHZZWHY[ZL_[LYPVY`HJO[ the client. Having built several truly custom and spectacular vessels
Z[`SL3,+SPNO[PUNHUKMYVU[HUKIHJRL_[LYPVYZVѝ[Z\YMHJLZ(Z over the years, Thoroughbred will continue to build on its reputation
Thoroughbred continues to merge with the other companies within VMVќLYPUNH^PKLHYYH`VMJ\Z[VTVW[PVUZMVYLHJOJSPLU[
Trifecta Ventures, is also continues to distinguish itself through its
transportation and renovation services. It’s committed to custom- What’s Trending Now?
er-driven improvements that keep it steadily moving forward. “Thoroughbred set the standard of glass side wall houseboats
and we have seen an increasing interest in clients looking to have
'DWHIRXQGHG 1996 more natural light along with wonderful views of the water from their
/RFDWLRQMonticello, Ky. ÅVH[PUNOVTL¹
%HVWVHOOLQJ0RGHORU)ORRU3ODQAll Glass 19’ X 90’ – Chris Girdler, Trifecta President
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 15’ X 50’
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 23’ X 118’ (Yacht Style)
+XOO'HVLJQAll Aluminum Mono Hulls and Catamaran Hulls
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQLakes, Rivers, Intracoastal
Owner Quote
“Thoroughbred Houseboats was absolutely wonderful to work
with during and after the construction of our new houseboat! We
[OVYV\NOS`LUQV`LK[OLWYVJLZZMYVTZ[HY[[VÄUPZOHUK[OL`YLHSS`
took care of us even after the sale to make sure we were complete-
S`ZH[PZÄLK0^V\SKOPNOS`YLJVTTLUK;OVYV\NOIYLK/V\ZLIVH[Z
to my family and friends!”
–Rick Wilson, Memory Maker

Twin Anchors
800-558-0881 www.twinanchorsmfg.com
Twin Anchors Marine has been owned and operated by the [OL`[YLH[`V\ÔLU`V\OH]LHWYVISLTHUK[OL`Ä_WYVISLTZ
same family since 1977, the longest continuous ownership in the fantastically.”
industry. Prior to the turndown in the houseboat industry, Twin –Ken Harlan, Lake Roosevelt Adventures
Anchors added accommodation units to their product mix, building
accommodation units for the oil and gas industry. Now this com- Looking to 2018
pany has opened its market to residential housing, building holiday Twin Anchors Marine has endured a successful year in both the
homes and cabins throughout British Columbia. rental and manufacturing divisions. Its expectations for 2018 are
Twin Anchors designs are distinguished by an exclusive unitized similar with the introduction of new product and a full operation-
cabin and bridge and engineered bridgeneck truss system. It also al marina in Old Town Bay, Sicamous. They are currently developing
has no bearing interior walls, having that cathedral-like feel. All new houseboat designs and concepts to excite and drive future
aspects of design are premium to give each vessel a true trade- ZHSLZ^P[OUL^THU\MHJ[\YPUN[LJOUPX\LZHUKZ\WLYPVYÄUPZOLZ
marked stately essence.
Currently, Twin Anchors is planning for two large commercial or- What’s Trending Now?
KLYZPUHKKP[PVU[VL_[LUKPUNP[ZVÛYLU[HSÅLL[VU:O\Z^HW3HRL “Twin Anchors envisage 2018 to be a productive year for house-
Twin Anchors will also introduce its new CruiseCat, yacht-inspired, boat manufacturing. We are already building for the 2018 model
luxurious, distinctive-style houseboat in 2018. `LHYYLWSLUPZOPUNÅLL[ZH[3HRL9VVZL]LS[>HZOHUKH[SHRL
Shasta in California. Houseboat rentals have been up for the year
'DWH)RXQGHG 1977 HUKWYLIVVRPUNOHZHSYLHK`V\[WLYMVYTLK>LHYLJVUÄKLU[
/RFDWLRQ Sicamous, (B.C.), Canada houseboating is heading in the right direction and 2018 will see an
%HVWVHOOLQJ)ORRU3ODQ 16’ X 65’ – 75’ upward trend in both our rental and manufacturing divisions.”
6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 10’ X 35’ (Trailerable) –Nigel Watson, Boat Sales Q
/DUJHVW+RXVHERDW%XLOWWR'DWH 18’ X 75’ Tri-Deck
+XOO'HVLJQV Aluminum Pontoons and Aluminum Catamaran
:DWHU$SSOLFDWLRQ Pontoons for Lakes and Rivers,
Catamarans for Coastal and Intracoastal
Owner Quote
“They build a constantly evolving product that just gets better
with every evolution. They’re very responsive and the biggest thing
I would say is the way you tell the quality of a company is not how
great they treat you when you’re spending money, but how great

Are You Covered? By Roy Sparks
Insurance tips for houseboaters

When it comes to buying anything—including a new or policies are different from company to company. Some compa-
used houseboat—the advice is always the same: “Research, re- nies will provide replacement cost coverage for that stern drive
search and shop around.” This sage advice could not be more for ten years; others would be five or even two years.
valuable when it comes to marine insurance. Whether you’ve Others still may tell you that this loss is not cov-
made the decision to invest a huge sum of money in a recre- ered. That’s right! Some policies specifically
ational tool or living quarters, you need to protect exclude losses to machinery, props, shafts
that investment as best you can. While the and engines unless the loss is caused by a
subject of marine insurance can appear named peril such as stranding, burning,
complex, if an accident ever does sinking or collision with another water-
occur, knowing exactly what type craft. A grounding may not necessarily
of coverage you’ve paid for will be interpreted as a stranding.
become crucial. Marine insurance policies contain
There are hundreds of coverage mainly for hull and ma-
choices to be made when chinery physical damage, liability
insuring your vessel; coverage, personal effects and
with a little research and medical coverage.
preparation, you can Hull and machinery coverage
easily make the right ones. is for damage repair resulting
However, signing up for from any accident (so long as it’s
the cheapest or easiest not intentional) and the liability
policy isn’t always the best coverage is to pay for all expenses
way to go. that you become legally responsible
The first step in your for as a result of your operation or
search for answers is to find the ownership of the insured vessel. In
experienced and knowledgeable some cases, liability coverage follows
marine insurance agent. With such you around from boat to boat, just so
a huge variety in policy coverage out long as you are the one operating it.
there, it’s important to enlist the help of an Generally speaking, personal wa-
agent who knows something about the houseboat tercrafts are not considered boats and
industry. hence your liability coverage is not following
There are two basic forms of coverage: Agreed Value and you around when you run them.
Actual Cash Value. Watercraft Liability insurance, or Protection and Indemnity
There are two items to consider when speaking about coverage (again depending on what you buy), is always includ-
Agreed Value and Actual Cash Value. The first is how the policy ed in the main package of coverage but you have to select the
pays in the event of a total loss. The Agreed Value policy simply limits best for you. This will depend on a variety of factors that
pays the amount the boat was insured for. The Actual Cash are usually personal and these should be discussed in detail
Value will determine the value of the houseboat at the time of with your marine agent in the first call that you have together.
loss. The real issue with Actual Cash Value policies and a total Everybody wants to know how much it’s going to cost to in-
loss is if the boat was insured for $40,000 8 years ago, on an sure a boat; it depends on a variety of factors and options, the
Actual Cash Value policy the boat’s value might be $25,000. If main one being the value of the hull. As hull value increases, so
you are insured on an Actual Cash Value policy, you need to do insurance costs. The next is going to be the location. Moor-
make sure you have the boat valued correctly each year. ing in a hurricane-prone area will require a larger premium—
The second is how the policy responds in the event of a par- geographical risks substantially impact premium. A higher
tial loss. With Actual Cash Value, the policies are always sub- deductible drops the premium, and a lay-up period during the
ject to depreciation. Labor is not depreciated but the materials winter drops it some more. There are other variables that af-
are. So if you have a four-year-old stern drive and hit a sub- fect the premium such as your claims history, your experience
merged object, with Actual Cash Value, you could be looking and the age and make of your boat. Some insurance companies
at ten percent depreciation on the replacement cost of the like BoatU.S. offer discounts to captains who have completed
stern drive or part. With Agreed Value, the stern drive will be safety courses.
replaced new for old with no depreciation. It is important to By taking time to understand the details and obtain the ap-
point out here that this would be specific per insurance com- propriate policy, you’ll have far more peace of mind to concen-
pany and their policy terms and conditions. Boat insurance trate on what really matters: having fun. Q

Totally Tendered
The most compact accessory
craft for a truly memorable
lake experience BY VA N E S S A O L E R
With cutting-edge technology in their tool belts, world manu-
facturers are producing the coolest water toys to complement your
houseboating experience this summer. We’ve collected nine of our
favorite must-haves, prioritizing their compact storage capabilities.
Argos Nautic 396

Argos Nautic is a manufacturer of semi-custom luxury yacht tenders.
Since 2009, president and owner Ignacio Vadillo has assembled and
directed a talented team of engineers, naval architects and renowned
designers to develop a superior line of luxury tenders for the global yacht
market. As a Yacht Owner, Ignacio realized the opportunity for a new con-
cept in Luxury RIB tenders to serve and complement the world’s yachts
and their owners’ enjoyment of life on the water.
Using hand-laid lamination, premium composite materials and the
most exclusive European accessories, Argos Nautic boats achieve the
perfect balance of elegance, quality and strength.
Argos Nautic’s next big step is the 396 Yachting. The 396 model sur-
passes all competition in luxury, style and performance. At 13 feet, the
396 comfortably seats five adults and contains ample space for storage
and can reach speeds of up to 36 miles per hour.
www.argosnautic.com
Highfield’s Ocean Master Line

Whether wakeboarding, skiing or tubing is your thing, the Highfield Ocean Master OM390 and OM420 make fantastic water-
sports boats, which are fun and safe for the whole family, young and old! With a maximum horsepower of up to 60, these little
crafts have the power to get anyone up on their feet, while at the same time burning less fuel than other watersports alternatives.
Highfield knows that when you live on the water your boat is your car. With the ability to carry up to eight people and a maxi-
mum load of up to over 1700 pounds, the OM390 and OM420 can accommodate everything you need.
The smallest models of the Highfield Ocean Master range truly make perfect all-around tenders for houseboat owners.
www.highfieldboats.com

Origami Foldable Canoe
“It all started back in 2013,” says Otto Van De Steene, ONAK
co-founder and designer. “I had just come back from a photo-
graphing trip in Norway and lost my cameras in an accident. Onak’s patented Honeycomb Curv polypropylene mate-
To clear my head, I started making little paper canoes. That’s rial became the backbone of the innovation. Besides being
when it struck me: what if I could make real-sized origami extremely tough and fully recyclable, it allowed Onak to design
foldable canoes? Hundreds of paper canoes and dozens of a stiff canoe almost entirely in one piece, with very few other
prototypes later, I’m proud we persisted with our idea.” parts required. Honeycomb air cells make the boat very light-
According to co-founder and engineer Thomas Weyn, ca- weight and give it so much additional buoyancy that it stays
noeing is a relaxing way of spending time together. “We wanted afloat even when entirely flooded with water.
people to be able to experience canoeing wherever they are.” www.onakcanoes.com
TIWAL 3.2
Founded by Marion Excoffon and Emmanuel Bertrand, TIWAL is a family com-
pany that designs and manufactures cheeky inflatable dinghies!
When Marion, a bold industrial designer, asked to borrow her father’s boat he
refused, so she decided to build her own! The drive and determination Marion
has for enjoying the pleasures of the outdoors motivated her to design TIWAL
dinghy. Now the rush of sailing is accessible to everyone.
TIWAL 3.2 is the very first high performance inflatable sailing dinghy for water
sports. It is designed to make navigation fun and simple and for the thrill of
speed and glide. Its versatile design allows for both high performance solo use
and leisure sailing in pairs. TIWAL 3.2 is 10.5 feet long and has a 56-square-foot
or 75-square-foot sail. It is light at 111 pounds, compact and it folds away in two
bags. Plus it can be assembled and taken down in 20 minutes.
An outing on a TIWAL is much more than just a day on the water: it’s an
adventure! It is the pleasure of fun, sporting sailing, and special moments shared
with family or friends.
www.tiwal.com/us

Tower Paddle
Boards
Stand-up paddle boards
are all the rage, but do you
really have room for every fam-
ily member to have their own
board aboard? Now you do.
Tower’s revolutionary inflatable
design is the perfect intersec-
tion of lightweight and durable.
The Chris Craft Edition by
Tower is a beautiful, top-shelf
collaboration by Tower Paddle
Boards and Chris Craft to make
one of the world’s finest inflat-
able paddle board packages. It
brings these industry leaders
together on a collaboration that
will look right at home tied up
to the finest yachts in the world.
Even better if it matches your
very own vintage Chris Craft
houseboat.
www.towerpaddleboards.com
Oru Kayak’s The Beach LT

Inspired by that feeling of adventure kids get with big cardboard boxes, Oru’s team
is teaching us how to play again. It’s the easiest collapsible boat in the world to put to-
gether—it takes just three minutes and its 28-inch width makes it stable and comfort-
able. In 2017 Oru increased the cockpit size, to make entry a breeze for paddlers of all
shapes and sizes. It’s perfect for fun, spontaneous day trips, and sharing with friends
and family. With exacting standards of strength and durability, this kayak will explore
those far reaches of your favorite lake. The Beach LT is the clearest
expression of Oru’s goal: make the outdoors more accessible.
www.orukayak.com

Yamaha’s 2018 EX Series
The EX WaveRunner Series is designed for buyers seeking durability, stability, storage, ease of maintenance, and overall
an affordable entry into the sport of personal watercraft, yet fun packed into a watercraft at this price point in the history
demand durability, reliability and quality. The line includes of the sport.”
Yamaha’s award-winning TR-1 engine and is equipped with Whether you’re looking for an easy and less expensive way to
RiDE dual throttle handlebar control system while starting at get on the water or simply just wanting the luxury, comfort and
$6,699. high performance, Yamaha delivers that and much more with
“The EX Series is a game-changer for the personal watercraft its EX Series.
market,” said Bryan Seti, general manager of Yamaha’s Water- www.yamahawaverunners.com Q
craft Group. “There’s never been this much performance,

“More than anything else, we want the boat that’s
best for you.” Terry Miller
TOLL FREE 866-942-0885
Main Office, Conley Bottom, 606-340-8652
1991 Stardust 19’ x 84’ WB 1983 Sumerset 14’ x 58’ 2000 Fantasy 17’ x 82’ WB 2001 Lakeview 16’ x 78’ WB 1972 Westmoreland 16’ x 48’ 1990 Sumerset 18’ x 77’ WB
$187,500 $59,000 $245,000 $169,900 $29,000 $145,000
1987 Stardust 14’ x 56’ 2013 Sunstar 17.5’ x 78’ 1994 Jamestowner 14’ x 60’ 2012 Majestic Royal 16’ x 65’ 1985 Sumerset 14’ x 65’ 1995 Sumerset 16’ x 65’ WB
$73,500 $359,500 $85,000 WB $229,000 $66,500 $138,500
BROKER LISTINGS
BROKER LISTINGS
1998 Fantasy 16’ x 75’ WB 1977 Sumerset 14’ x 58’ 2012 Horizon 16’ x 66’ WB 1985 Sumerset 14’ x 60’ 2009 Fantasy Yacht 19’ x 90’ 2000 Sunstar 16’ x 49’
$170,000 $18,500 $272,900 $59,900 WB $389,000 $149,000
1980 Gibson 14’ x 50’ 1991 Leisure Time 14’ x 63’ 1978 Sumerset 14’ x 58’ 2010 Funtime 16’ x 70’ WB 1989 Sumerset 14’ x 62’ WB 1994 Stardust 18’ x 86’ WB
$32,000 WB $110,000 $59,900 $272,000 $79,500 $159,000
2009 Sunstar 17’ x 74’ WB 1981 Jamestowner 14’ x 52’ 1996 Sumerset 16’ x 75’ WB 2001 Sunstar 16’ x 70’ WB 1984.2008 Holiday Mansion 1999 Stardust 16’ x 80’ WB
$289,900 $35,000 $129,000 $183,000 12’ x 36’ $55,000 $189,995
1985 Jamestowner 16’ x 56’ 1999 Sharpe 16’ x 68’ WB 2011 Aqualodge 10’ x 42’ 2009 Destination Yacht 1985 Marinette 12’ x 32.5’ 2007 Horizon 18’ x 80’ WB
$29,000 $149,900 $75,000 17’ x 58’ $219,000 $25,000 $274,500
2006 Horizon 18’ x 92’ WB 1987 Stardust 14’ x 52’ 2003 Lakeview 16’ x 65’ WB 1985 Sumerset 14’ x 60’ 2003 Sunstar 19’ x 103’ WB 1985 Lazy Days 14.6’ x 62’
$379,000 $49,500 $178,500 $69,500 $449,000 $99,900
1987 Sumerset 14’ x 59’ 2001 Horizon 16’ x 65’ WB 1988 Waterhouse 14’ x 56’ 2005 Horizon 18’ x 82’ WB 1988 Jamestowner 14’ x 58’ 2003 Horizon 16’ x 77’ WB
$69,800 $179,500 $58,000 $279,000 $54,900 $239,900
BROKER LISTINGS
BROKER LISTINGS
1989 Sumerset 18’ x 78’ 2002 Sumerset 16’ x 77’ WB 1992 Harbor Master 14’ x 47’ 2001.2016 Sharpe 17.5’ x 84’ 1997 Lakeview 14’ x 56’ WB 1992 Stardust 16’ x 74’ WB
$115,000 $219,000 $69,000 WB $359,000 $89,000 $159,500
Is this the year you turn your passion into a career? Join our Broker sales team on your lake, USA.
Phone 606-305-7049 or E-mail boatwings@yahoo.com to learn more.
Dale Hollow Lake Eastern Kentucky Lake Cumberland Laurel Lake

Jake Pyzik • 931-397-4154 Glenn Combs • 859-227-7318 Lisa Blakeman • 270-507-6668 Ceysha Clark • 606-669-9515
Tonya Pyzik • 931-397-5051 Ceysha Clark • 606-669-9515
Mississippi Knoxville
Jake Pyzik • 931-397-4154
Center Hill Lake Dale Shepherd • 601-260-4745 Tom Whitaker • 901-569-5095
Tonya Pyzik • 931-397-5051
Pat Riley • 931-260-2662 Melonie Whitaker • 865-250-0888
Southern Lakes Marine Transport Anchor In
Formerly Dreams In Motion
Houseboat and Cruiser Transport 812-277-8678

Owner: Cory Atchison southernlakesca@gmail.com
There’s an anchor hidden inside every
issue and the names of the first ten people to
find it are included in the next magazine! In
November/December, the anchor was hidden
^dKWZEYh''Dh^^>^ on page 3 in the top picture of the houseboat.
Here are the first ten readers to find it:

&ZKDdd,/E'dKzKhZKd Jessica Cole Bull Shoals Lake, Ark.
Linda Browder Bristol, Tenn.
Jim Brignolio Manteca, Calif.
Dh^^>^dKWWZ Tom Taylor Norris Lake, Tenn.
dŽƉͶDƵƐƐĞů^ƚŽƉƉĞƌ͖ŽƩŽŵͶƵŶƚƌĞĂƚĞĚ Tracy Gale Gold Canyon, Ariz.
WŝŶĞ>ĂŬĞ͕>ĂWŽƌƚĞ͕/E WW>zhEZtdZKZKhdK&tdZ Kim and Susan Krach Boynton Beach, Fla.
dĞƐƚĞĚ>ĂŬĞƐDĞĂĚΘWŽǁĞůů͕>ĂŬĞƐŝŶ
John Jordan Altamonte Springs, Fla.
/ŶĚŝĂŶĂ͕DŝĐŚŝŐĂŶ͕ĂŶĚEĞǁzŽƌŬ͕ǌĞƌŽ Vicki Jefferies Fresno, Calif.
ƵǇŽŶůŝŶĞĂƚ͗ Lonnie Jones Madison, Tenn.
ŵƵƐƐĞůƐŝŶƚǁŽǇĞĂƌƐ
Albert Simon Darlington, S.C.
EKEdKy/͕/E^K>h>/EtdZ ǁǁǁ͘ŵƵƐƐĞůƐƚŽƉƉĞƌ͘ĐŽŵ
As soon as you see the anchor, email the
ĞŶĚŽƌƐĞĚďǇDŽƚĞDĂƌŝŶĞ͕^ĂƌĂƐŽƚĂ͕&> h^WϴϵϴϮϱͲϭĂƉƉƌŽǀĞĚ͖WĂƚ͘WĞŶĚŝŶŐ location, your name, and your hometown to
anchor@houseboatmagazine.com. Good
luck! Q
Don't Let Pests Be Guests™ ADVERTISER

BacTANK T3
ADVERTISING INDEX
WEB ADDRESS PAGE
17
• Eliminate Easy Pest Access www.bactankt3.com
Barnacle Blocker 44
www.musselstopper.com
• Easy Installation using Spring nT V Deckrite (MariDeck) 5
en O
www.marideck.net
Door on OFFBoard® Shield e
As S
Destination Yachts 2
www.destinationyachts.com
Divnick International, Inc. 17
• Models Fit Any Size Line www.divnick.com
Elite Boat Sales 45
www.eliteboatsales.net
• Made in U.S.A. Foothills Products, Inc. 44
www.offboard.com
Fortress Marine Anchors 23
1-866-643-0353 • www.offboard.com www.fortressanchors.com
Gibson Boats S.D. LLC 3
www.gibsonboats.com
Houseboats buy Terry 42, 43
www.houseboatsbuyterry.com
HydraNautics 6
www.thrusterman.com
Newcoast Financial Services 9
www.newcoast.com
Richard Boland Yachts 5
www:richardbolandyachts.com
Southern Lakes Marine Transport, Inc. 44
southernlakesca@gmail.com
Sunstar Houseboats, Inc. 15
Trifecta Ventures, LLC 48
www.tbboats.com
Twin Anchors Marine Manufacturing Limited 15
www.twinanchorsmfg.com
Wilson Pontoons, Inc. 15
www.plasticpontoon.com

BROKER LISTINGS
Located at State Dock on Beautiful

Lake Cumberland Kentucky
2004 16x84 Sharpe 2015 20 x 106 1983 14x56 Jamestowner 2006 18.5 x 88 Horizon
$295,000 Stardust Custom Yacht $1,199,000 $37,900 $380,000
1999 14x54 Jamestowner 2007 17x78 Funtime 1990 16 x 76 Sumerset 2003 17 x 79 Lakeview
$75,000 $249,000 $148,500 $239,000
1994 16 x 74 Sumerset 2006 18 x 85 Starlite 2016 21x100 Thoroughbred 2010 18x93 Sharpe
$148,000 $259,000 $115,000 $495,000
2003 16x70 Horizon 1996 14x54 Jamestowner 1987 16x63 Stephens 2004 16x68 Lakeview
$179,500 $79,999 $38,999 $177,000
To View Hundreds of Houseboats, visit

www.eliteboatsales.net
Let Us Do The Work...
So You Have More Time To Play!
For complete listings, and to find your next houseboat visit:
www.eliteboatsales.net • or call us at 800-234-3625
BROKER LISTINGS
DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE 2018
Finding the right builders or brokers
MANUFACTURERS
ADONIA YACHTS HARBOR COTTAGES STARDUST CRUISERS

4679 S River Rd 451 Lee’s Ford Dock Rd 6775 East Hwy 90
St George, UT 84790 Nancy, KY 42544 Monticello, KY 42633
928-660-9746 606-636-6426 606-340-3191
www.adoniayachts.com www.harborcottagehouseboats.com us.houseboatky.com
BRAVADA YACHTS GIBSON BOATS SUMERSET HOUSEBOATS

9310 West Buckeye Road Suite 200 27277 471st Ave 6775 East Hwy 90
Tolleson, AZ 85353 Harrisburg, SD 57032 Monticello, KY 42633
602-233-2628 605-231-1052 606-340-3191
www.bravadayachts.com www.gibsonboats.com www.sumerset.com
CATAMARAN CRUISERS MAJESTIC YACHTS, INC SUMMERSUN HOUSEBOATS

4166 Demastus Lane 101 Westwood Drive 451 Lee’s Ford Dock Rd
Columbia, TN 38401 Columbia, KY 42728 Nancy, KY 42544
931-388-1255 270-385-9828 844-926-8824
www.catamarancruiser.com www.majesticyachtsinc.com www.harborcottagehouseboats.com/
summersun-houseboats
DESTINATION YACHTS OVERBLUE YACHTS
2610 S. 140 W. Via Giuseppe di Vittorio SUNSTAR HOUSEBOATS
Washington, IN 47501 21-23, 25033 Cologne BS, Italy 138 Sunstar Blvd.
812-254-8800 510-610-6213 Monticello, KY 42633
www.destinationyachts.com www.overblue.it 606-348-6648
ECO-SEA COTTAGES PLUCKEBAUM CUSTOM BOATS
2401 N. Northlake Way, F1 1231 State Rd. 1793 THOROUGHBRED HOUSEBOATS
Seattle, WA 98103 Prospect, KY 40059 6775 East Hwy 90
206-297-1330 502-228-0111 Monticello, KY 42633
www.eco-seacottage.com www.pluckebaum.com 606-340-3191
www.tbboats.com
FLOE CRAFT SAILABRATION HOUSEBOATS
48473 MN-65 7212 Ammons Lane TWIN ANCHORS HOUSEBOATS
McGregor, MN 55760 Powell, TN 37849 P.O. Box 318
800-336-6337 865-947-4234 Sicamous, BC V0E 2V0
www.floeintl.com www.sailabrationhouseboats.com 800-663-4026
www.twinanchors.com

SELECTED BROKERS
BILL AUSTIN AIRCRAFT & YACHT SALES GREEN TURTLE BAY RESORT & MARINA KENTUCKIANA YACHT SERVICES
730 Airport Road 263 Green Turtle Bay Dr. 700 E Market St.
Sparta, TN 38583-8687 Grand Rivers, KY 42045 Jeffersonville, IN 47130
931-738-3939 800-498-0428 812-282-2660
www.planesandboats.com www.greenturtlebay.com www.kys.com
BUYABOAT.NET HARBORSIDE MARINA MIDDLE TENNESSEE

451 Lee’s Ford Dock Road 27425 S. Will Rd. HOUSEBOATS & YACHT SALES
Nancy, KY 42544 Wilmington, IL 60481 PO Box 430
606-636-6427 815-476-4400 Smithville, TN 37166
www.buyaboat.net www.harborsidemarina.com 931-261-4713
www.midtnhouseboats.com
COAST TO COAST YACHT SALES HOUSEBOAT OUTLET
116 Benway Drive 337-330-4408 SAFE HARBOR YACHT SALES
Somerset, KY 42501 329 Hardware Rd. 6171 Hwy. V
888-659-1462 Broussard, LA 70518 St. Charles, MO 63301
www.c2cyacht.com www.houseboatoutlet.com 636-949-2738
www.safeharboryachts.com
CENTER HILL MARINE BROKERAGE HOUSEBOATS PLUS
6016 Leeville Pike 1293 Lone Valley Rd. SHASTA LAKE HOUSEBOAT SALES
Lebanon, TN 37090 Campbellsville, KY 42718 15118 Fawndale Rd.
615-948-7443 270-403-6009 Redding, CA 96003
www.centerhillboats.com www.houseboatsplus.com 530-246-2637
www.shastalake-houseboats.com
ELITE BOAT SALES HOUSEBOATS BUY TERRY
6365 State Park Rd. 280 Conley Bottom Rd. SUNSTAR YACHT SALES & BROKERAGE
Jamestown, KY 42629 Monticello, KY 42633 PO Box 252
800-234-3625 606-340-8652 Bronston, KY 42518
www.eliteboatsales.net www.houseboatsbuyterry.com 888-855-9520
www.sunstaryacht.com
ERWIN MARINE SALES HOUSEBOATS OF GEORGIA
3001 Kings Point Rd. 5881 Bay View Dr. YOURNEWBOAT.COM
Chattanooga, TN 37416 Buford, GA PO Box 1185
423-622-1978 770-932-2048 Norris, TN 37828
www.erwinmarinesales.com www.houseboatsofga.com 800-494-5023
www.yournewboat.com Q
EXECUTIVE BOAT & YACHT BROKERAGE HOLLY BLUFF MARINA
3600 S Main St. 2280 Hontoon Rd.
Salt Lake City, UT 84115 DeLand, FL 32720
801-288-0545 800-237-5105
www.executiveyacht.com www.hollybluff.com

Houseboat Magazine January 2018

Enviado por

Dados do documento

Direitos autorais

Formatos disponíveis

Compartilhar este documento

Compartilhar ou incorporar documento

Opções de compartilhamento

Você considera este documento útil?

Este conteúdo é inapropriado?

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

Houseboat Magazine January 2018

Enviado por

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

Building your families dreams

Full Hull (V Series)

Twin Hull (Q Series)

Twin Hull (I Series)

FINANCING YOUR DREAMS

4 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

1070 Marina Village Pkwy, Ste. 104, Alameda CA 94501

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 5

LAYOUT & DESIGN

fabricators needed. We do it all, To subscribe, go to:

• Are they strong? Stern

HydraNautics CORPORATE OFFICES

“When you’re tired of sitting at the dock.” President - Jason Harris

859-885-5545 Vice President - Steve Janes

6 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Anytime you see this logo in our magazine,

State Of Our Industry

8 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

10 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

About the Author

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 11

12 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

14 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Hull design for high performance and greater lift

sUses: Pontoon boats, houseboats,

2869 Charlevoix St.

Creating Wonderful Houseboating

16 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

18 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Photography by Nick Laessig Photography, www.nicklaessig.com

Running at full capacity from its 60,000-square-foot manufac-

20 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 21

This manufacturer has a long-standing reputation for getting Owner Quote

22 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Fortress FX-37 (21 lbs) 1,862 lbs

Ultra (46 lbs) 842 lbs

Mantus (45 lbs) 680 lbs

Manson Supreme (45 lbs) 650 lbs

www.FortressAnchors.com | (800) 825-6289 | Made in the USA

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 23

What’s Trending Now?

24 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 25

26 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

606-636-6426 nance-free. I have talked to a couple of current boat owners who

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 27

28 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

-V\UKLKI`LU[YLWYLUL\Y9HќHLSL.YV[[PHUKJYHM[LKPUJVSSHI- Owner Quote

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 29

Sailabrate good times; come on! For nearly 20 years, Sailabra-

30 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 31

32 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 33

34 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 35

36 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Insurance tips for houseboaters

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 37

Argos Nautic 396

Highfield’s Ocean Master Line

38 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 39