Cottage Boating

The sun begins its descent into the horizon.  The lake is still.  The dock is scattered with remnants of the day – wet towels in heaps, empty pop cans, and trays of unfinished snacks.  The boat is tied up at the dock, the tubes, water skis, and wakeboards are drying.  Children are changing out of bathing suits and into pajamas, and another memorable day at the cottage is almost over.

The family boat is an integral part of cottage life in Muskoka.  From cruises around the lake with stops for ice cream at the marina to marathon tubing sessions, the boat offers a unique means of spending time together as a family.  Some of the best days at our cottage with my own family have been spent in just such a manner.

 In 1886, the first boat powered by a petrol engine was tested on the Neckar River by Gottlieb Daimler and William Maybach.  With the invention of the “V-Hull” in 1908 by John L. Hacker, boating was revolutionized.  Early motor boats were a luxury that few could afford.  With the advent of mass production lines, power boats became more affordable, and the world of pleasure boating became available to more and more people.

In the fifteen years that I have been with Pride Marine Group, I’ve seen many changes in the world of boating.  The average boat size has increased from 18 to 20 feet to now generally 20 to 25 feet.  Specialty boats form a greater percentage of the market with companies such as Nautique and Edgewater addressing the specific needs of boaters. With Nautique focusing on perfecting wakes for  new water sports such as wakeboarding, wake skating, and wake surfing. And Edgewater creating the ultimate unsinkable offshore boats.   Additionally, with improvements in comfort and finishings, these boats can now serve as multipurpose family boats.

But someone’s passion for boating can’t be measured in length, width, brand or colour.  It is found in embracing the experience of being on the open water and the memories created in that moment.
One of my greatest joys in my work, is help families determine the right boat for their needs and helping them maximize their enjoyment on the water.  I have loved watching children grow up, start families, and teach a new generation how to water ski or drive countless figure eights towing a tube.  Whether you own a “tinner” or a new Nautique, a motor boat can enhance the cottage experience of any family.  On a boat, screens are minimal, children are happy, and families can be together with few distractions.  I look forward to seeing you this summer and hope you enjoy creating your own memories.

Wayne Rodgers
Product Specialist
Pride of Muskoka