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A Season of Cruising
As we power-up and get ready for a
new boating season, it's great to see the incredible advancements
power boating has made since our first issue rolled off the press
nearly two decades ago. Innovative hull designs offer increased
strength and performance and models of all styles boast an abundance
of creature comforts to enhance family cruising.
And as boating
is more economical than ever before, our waterways are churning
with sheer excitement as families and thrill-seekers cruise into
the boating lifestyle for summer fun.
Power Boating
Canada has always stressed the importance of boating safety and
with the launch of a new season, now is the perfect time to double
check your on-board safety equipment and gear. Do you have PFDs
or lifejackets for every passenger and have they been thoroughly
inspected? Is your VHF in perfect operating condition in case of
an emergency? Is your on-board battery fully charged? Do your fire
extinguishers need to be inspected and are they located in an easy-to-reach
location? If you plan on taking an extended cruise this summer,
be sure to file a trip plan with your local marina and indicate
your departure and arrival times plus points of your destination.
Emergencies on the water can happen quickly and if you're not prepared,
a bad situation can become even worse. (Top)
Don't miss
some of the upcoming events this summer. Starting July 13, you won't
want to miss the Annual Antique & Classic Wooden Boat Show in Gravenhurst,
ON. In its 23rd year, this event is a crowd-pleaser with a superb
collection of classics on display. More on-the-water fun can be
found in Orillia, ON with a series of shows and rallies. And in
August, there's the 2002 Richmond Tall Ship Festival August 8-12
in British Columbia.
With all this,
we celebrate the season with a power-packed issue. First, our regular
columnists serve up some insightful water safety tips and in the
power department, PBC writer Bill Jennings tests Volvo Penta's new
Ocean Series XDP Composite drive. Featured on the 2460 Pursuit Denali,
the drive is the company's first composite design and ranks high
on our power scale. Our chief tester, Doug Dawson goes for a ride
in Doral's all-new 245 BR and then takes a behind-the-scenes personal
tour of the Canadian builder's Owen Sound, ON sport boat plant.
For "Flat Out Family Fun," be sure to check out our special section
showcasing 16 hot deck boats. We're sure you'll find the ideal model
for your family and your boating lifestyle. Plus, our destination
story on British Columbia's Queen Charlotte Straight is guaranteed
to spark your cruising spirit with a journey along this majestic
coast.
If you happen
to attend some of the events and shows be sure to drop and say hello
to us. In the meantime, we hope you have a safe and happy boating
season.
(Top)
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