Whaler Volume 6 Issue 2

T H E U N S I N K A B L E L E G E N DwhalerB O S T O N W H A L E R B O A T S M A G A Z I N E

volume 6 issue 2

www.bostonwhaler.com

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GMTB15MGE00G_GMC Jets_SPD.indd GMC 15TKBNAH GMC Q3 CB Mag

B1341-001143-00 Boston Whaler CV2SPD4CB

B1124-001055 8/1/15 7/16/15

18.25” x 10.75”

18” x 10.5”

17” x 9.5”

1.5”

Actual Size

Kelle Jack Cameron

Sandi Jamie cripes

GMC:2015 GMC:2015 GMC Misc:B1124-001055 010-TCTBNMG5005 3Q & 4Q GMC Magazine GMC CROSSBRAND:GMTB15MGE00G_GMC

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Univers LT Std, StratumGMC

©2015 General Motors. All rights reserved. The marks appearing in this ad are the trademarks or service marks of GM, its subsidiaries, affiliates or licensors.

IT MATTERS IN EVERYTHING. TO US, IT MATTERS MORE THAN ANYTHING. EXPLORE AT GMC.COM WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE

1ST Assembly 07/10/15184149A01g swop

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

S:17”

S:9.5”

T:18”

T:10.5”

B:18.25”

B:10.75”

F:9”

FS:7.75”

F:9”

FS:7.75”

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GMTB15MGE00G_GMC Jets_SPD.indd GMC 15TKBNAH GMC Q3 CB Mag

B1341-001143-00 Boston Whaler CV2SPD4CB

B1124-001055 8/1/15 7/16/15

18.25” x 10.75”

18” x 10.5”

17” x 9.5”

1.5”

Actual Size

Kelle Jack Cameron

Sandi Jamie cripes

GMC:2015 GMC:2015 GMC Misc:B1124-001055 010-TCTBNMG5005 3Q & 4Q GMC Magazine GMC CROSSBRAND:GMTB15MGE00G_GMC

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Univers LT Std, StratumGMC

©2015 General Motors. All rights reserved. The marks appearing in this ad are the trademarks or service marks of GM, its subsidiaries, affiliates or licensors.

IT MATTERS IN EVERYTHING. TO US, IT MATTERS MORE THAN ANYTHING. EXPLORE AT GMC.COM WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE

1ST Assembly 07/10/15184149A01g swop

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

S:17”S:9.5”

T:18”T:10.5”

B:18.25”B:10.75”

F:9”

FS:7.75”

F:9”

FS:7.75”

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APresident,BostonWhalerHuw Bower

VicePresidentofSales,Marketing&CustomerServiceJeff Vaughn

ManagerofContent&EventMarketingTraci Davis

Marketing&SalesEventCoordinatorAnna Collins

DigitalMarketingSpecialistKatie Toot

President/PublisherDouglas Leik

AccountExecutiveAnnie Brown

EditorialDirectorRandy Hess

ManagingEditorAmy Wideman

SeniorContentEditorElli Purtell

EditoratLargeJennifer Chesak

EditoratLargeAlexa Poteet

EditorialInternMonica Park

CreativeDirectorRussell Duncan

DigitalCreativeDirectorKraig Devenport

ProductionDirectorRobyn Bendle

ArtDirectorKelly Mairs

GraphicDesignerBrittany Huisenga

PhotographersJim Barrett, Mike Calabro, Steven J. Conway, Robert Glover,Mark Kellum, Richard Steinberger

Whaler magazine is publishedtwo times a year for Boston Whaler by Dino Publishing LLC. Any correspondence should be directed to:Dino Publishing350 W. Hubbard St., Suite 400Chicago, IL 60654Tel: 312-822-9266Fax: 312-822-9268email: [email protected]

The opinions expressed in this magazine arenot to be considered official expressions ofDino Publishing or Boston Whaler. The pub-lisher reserves the right to accept or reject alleditorial or advertising matter. The publisherassumes no responsibility for unsolicitedmanuscripts, photographs, or artwork. Re-production in whole or in part of any text,photograph, or illustration without priorwritten permission from the publisher isstrictly prohibited. Printed in U.S.A.

Copyright © 2015 Boston Whaler.

Whether it’s chatting over conch fritters during the Bimini Rendezvous, debating the merits of a new technology at a boat show, or exchanging a series of lively emails—each conversation with a Whaler owner leaves me feeling energized.

To be sure, our customers are a knowledgeable bunch of lifelong boaters, with strongfeelings about what works—as well as what doesn’t—out there on the water. When it comesto designing new boats, we believe strongly in the power of listening. And because of it,we’re better equipped to innovate in ways that benefit you.

e new 330 Outrage (profiled on page 30) is one of more than 18 new boats introducedin the past few years, and it is a prime example of the core confidence we endeavor to buildinto every single model. is means thoughtful design, logic applied from the inside out,

so that when you step onboard a Whaler you know, 100 percent,that it will deliver you and your family safely to your next adventure and bring you home with indelible new memories.

at core confidence shines on the faces in this issue, like RickEslava and his daughter (page 16), or Ken and Kathy Debrowski(page 42), all of whom share a passion for the Whaler lifestyle thatspans generations.

It’s not only rewarding to see this kind of loyalty; it’s exciting. Because as strong as the Boston Whaler legend is today, it onlycontinues to get better.

Appreciation

WHALERMagazine

Huw BowerPresident — Boston Whaler

The new 330 Outrage isone of more than 18 newboats introduced in thepast few years, and it isa prime example of the

core confidence we endeavor to build into

every single model.

Keeping the legend growing.

whaler president’sletter

At Boston Whaler, our appreciation for our customersruns deep. The relationship we share is not a one-sidedtransaction; it is an ongoing conversation that takes

many forms, all of them impassioned and thoughtful.

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volume 6 issue 2

whalermagazine

on the cover:José and Mila Fullana cruise around Puerto Rico on their 420 Outrage.Photo by Mike Calabro

Contentsf e a t u r e s

16Runs in the Family

As his daughter heads off to college, anAlabama father discovers a new way to

stay connected: through a shared passionfor boating.

24Puerto Rico: Gateway

to AdventureA 420 Outrage helps José and Mila Fullanaenjoy their island home base to the fullest.

30Confident to the Core

New additions to the legendary Outragefamily mean even more possibilities

for adventure, both close to shore and far from it.

36Triple the Fun

A family spends quality time togetheronboard a trifecta of Boston Whalers, exploring Maryland’s Severn River,

Florida’s Fort Lauderdale and beyond.

42The Next Chapter

Cape Cod and a Boston Whaler 315 Conquest provide endless enjoyment

for a pair of fun-seeking retirees.

04Navigate

Charitable activities, an easy fish dish,swimsuits that won’t rub you the wrongway, a fleet of new offshore champs and

much more.

14Towing

Experience the beautiful states of Kentuckyand Tennessee with a Boston Whaler

and a sophisticated GMC®Yukon Denali.Plus, a handy trailering checklist.

d e p a r t m e n t s

Confident to the Core 30

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4 | vol. 6, issue 2 | www.bostonwhaler.com

I

h o o k s , n e w s , g e a r a n d i n f o

navigate

INTHE BOATING WORLD, THE NAME “OUTRAGE” IS SYN-ONYMOUS WITH BOLD OFFSHORE PERFORMANCE ANDCONSIDERABLE ONBOARD COMFORT. Joining the family in2016 are the new 280 Outrage (shown), 250 Outrage and 230Outrage. Thanks to Boston Whaler’s precision-engineereddeep-V hull and a wide array of cutting-edge features, they’reas well suited to long-distance journeys as they are to casualdinner cruises. Keep your eyes peeled; the 280, 250 and 230 arecoming soon to a dealership near you. In the meantime, youcan read more about the confidence-inspiring Outrage family,including the all-new 330 Outrage, on page 30.

whaler

OFFSHORE CHAMPS

volume 6 issue 2

The Newest

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JOIN ELITE SAILORS ON THEIR OLYMPIC JOURNEY

Looking for some compelling programming for whenwinter’s worst weather keeps you off your Whaler?“Uncharted Waters: In Pursuit of the Olympic Dream”documents the drive, determination and sacrifice ofathletes pursuing a spot on the 2016 U.S. Olympic Sail-ing Team. “Uncharted Waters” unfolds in a series ofvideos, blogs and social media content focused on thepersonal stories of 11 athletes showing what it takesto be a top-ranked Olympic- and Paralympic-classsailor—from grueling travel around the world forcompetitions to balancing college and family life withthe demands of an unrelenting training schedule.

Get to know these remarkable athletes as they over-come incredible odds on the path to achieving theirdreams. Made possible by Sunbrella®. Follow thestory at sunbrella.com/uncharted.

Boston Whaler’s Edgewater facility recently received the prestigious Chair-man’s Safety Award in a program conducted by parent company BrunswickCorporation. During a ceremony held this summer, Brunswick Chairman &CEO Dustin McCoy presented Whaler’s safety committee with the award.

Boston Whaler President Huw Bower then announced that Whaler woulddonate the $10,000 prize received in conjunction with the award to Cudas Un-hooked, a local charity organization whose mission is to provide necessarysupport to financially challenged or at-risk students of New Smyrna BeachHigh School. Cudas Unhooked Chairman Shawn Lane and his son, Chad,were present to accept the donation and extend their gratitude, explaining thatthe money would be put toward building housing for students in need.

PAYING IT FORWARD



It wouldn’t be the start of a new school year without Boston Whaler’s annual Boatload of Backpacks fundraiser! For the fifth year in a row, Whaler delivered 50 backpacks to each of three local elementary schools. President Huw Bower and a group of Whaler employees trailered a 170 Dauntless filled with 150 backpacks and overflowing boxes of school supplies to Edgewater Public School, Indian RiverElementary and Burns Science and Technology Charter School. (e supplies weredonated by Whaler employees, and were then matched by the company to doublethe donation.) “We love giving back to the community as often as possible,” Bowersaid, “and sparking excitement in the minds of these young students is a gift in itself. We look forward to doing this for many years to come.”

Give the special boater in your life the gift of Peaceof Mind on the Water™ from Sea Tow. For just 49cents a day, a Sea Tow Gold Card Membership en-sures that no matter where you boat, professionalmarine assistance is only a VHF, phone call or fin-ger swipe of the Sea Tow App away. This includesfree towing, jump-starts and fuel drops, and 24/7access to U.S. Coast Guard-licensed Sea Tow cap-tains. In addition, members can take advantage ofexclusive discounts like boat insurance, boatinggear, fuel and more.

To order a Sea Tow Gi Membership, call (800) 4-SEATOW or visit

seatow.com/membership/give-a-gi

“BACKPACKS” MARKS 5 YEARS

e brand-new 2016 Sierra Denali has the power and technology totransport you to far-flung destinations. But just because you’re offthe beaten path doesn’t mean you have to be off the grid. A newsuite of available technology, including Apple CarPlay1 compati-bility and a Wireless Charging Mat2, keeps you connected while onthe road. Apple CarPlay links your smartphone to the Sierra Denali’s IntelliLink system3, allowing you to easily send, read andreply to text messages, make calls, and listen to voicemail. AccessApple Maps to chart your path and listen to iTunes radio or yourown playlist while you follow it. e Sierra Denali’s convenientWireless Charging Mat seamlessly charges compatible phones andother compatible mobile devices, so you’ll never run out of power—nor the desire to explore. Visit gmc.com for more information.

PEACEon WATER

1 Vehicle user interface is a product of Apple® and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires compatible smartphone. Data plan rates apply. 2 e system wirelessly charges one PMA- or Qi-compatible mobile device. Some devices require an adaptor or back cover. To check for phone or other device capability, visit my.gmc.com/learn for details. 3 Full functionality requires compatible Bluetooth® and smartphone. Some devices require USB connectivity.

trek savvy meets tech savvy


WITH THE CP470 AND CP570’S TOURNAMENT-WINNING WIDE-SPECTRUM CHIRP SONAR AND eS SERIES MFD, YOU CAN SPEND MORE TIME CATCHING FISH AND LESS TIME LOOKING FOR THEM.

Images for illustrative purpose only.

GO HUNTINGUNDERWATERWINNING WIDE-SPECTRUM CHIRP SONAR ANDeS SERIES MFD, YOU CAN SPEND MORE TIME CATCHING FISH AND LESS TIME LOOKING FOR THEM.

SEE RAYMARINE SONAR IN ACTION WITH CAPTAIN QUINTON DIETERLE.

WATCH THE VIDEO ATRAYMARINE.COM/FISHING

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e dewy hillsides of Scotland starkly contrast with the bright

blue skies and aqua waters Whaler owners hope to experience

on every outing. But Glenfiddich, a premium single malt

Scotch whisky, and Boston Whaler have more in common

than initially meets the eye: Both draw inspiration from every

corner of the globe. To make their aged whiskies, Glenfiddich

uses charred barrels previously used to age American Bourbon.

e distillery’s various expressions get their distinctive flavor

notes from Spanish sherry barrels and Caribbean rum barrels.

With every sip of a Glenfiddich—from the Bourbon Barrel Re-

serve 14 Year Old to the Small Batch Reserve 18 Year Old to the

21 Year Old Gran Reserva Rum Cask Finish—you’ll be trans-

ported to a new location, a new mindset. And with a refined

palette and a refined boat at your fingertips, what’s to stop you

from traveling directly to the source? Visit glenfiddich.com/us.

World Traveler

Make sure your Whaler is always in prime condition with ValvTect Ethanol GasolineTreatment (VEGA). Specially formulated for marine engines, VEGA is proven to be thebest solution for maintaining the quality of pure gasoline or ethanol-blended gasoline.VEGA provides stabilization for up to one year or more, prevents corrosion of internalengine components and helps prevent phase separation.

To prove total performance of VEGA, ValvTect Petroleum authorized a series of independent laboratory tests at one of the nation's leading petroleum laboratories.VEGA was found to improve the stability of E10 (90% gasoline; 10% ethanol) by 186 percent. It received a perfect A rating in corrosion prevention, and showed the ability to help prevent phase separation. For more information, visit valvtect.com.

e Ideal Additive


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Whether you’ve been an avid boater for years or you’re just getting started, ensure your Boston Whaler and equipment areprotected so you can embark on every future outing with complete peace of mind. Boater’s Choice, a trusted provider ofcomprehensive boat insurance for Whaler owners for nearly 25 years, protects all your assets on the water, big or small.

Boater’s Choice’s knowledgeable marine underwriters have access to multiple A-rated carriers and “shop” for the best priceand coverage options based on your needs. ey’ll provide a no-obligation quote right away and support you throughout yourpolicy life cycle, making your customer experience as stress-freeas your time on the water. Visit boaterschoiceinsurance.com tolearn more.

protect your prized possession

There's no bad part to being on the water, right? Wrong,

at least according to DryFins founders Andy and Craig.

After a lifetime spent on the water, the two had had

enough of the uncomfortable—sometimes downright

painful—chafe from a wet swimsuit. Craig developed his

own chafe-free swimsuit and loved it so much that he

and Andy turned it into a business. DryFins swimsuits

feature a quick-dry liner, instead of painful mesh, that

helps prevent rash so you can stay out all day in comfort.

Available now in two classic colors for men and boys.

Visit dryfins.com to buy your pair and check out other

DryFins apparel and products.

The Most ComfortableSwimsuit You'll Ever Wear

ALL DAy, ALL NIGHTAny time is the right time onboard your Whaler—even after the sungoes down and you are surrounded by the deep richness of thenighttime sky and the sound of rippling water. Raymarine's T Seriesthermal night vision camera with FLIR technology enhances navi-gational powers and adds confidence to your nights on the water.

The T Series cameras create pictures by detecting and displayingsmall changes in heat, rather than light. Every object, even ice, gen-erates thermal energy, some of which might not be invisible to thenaked eye. Raymarine's thermal night vision camera is capable ofdetecting that energy and turning it into easily understandablevideo. Enjoy enhanced visibility and situational awareness whileboating at night, easier docking in low light, improved navigation,and increased boat security and surveillance.

Plus, with a convenient thermal camera application availableright from your Raymarine Multifunction Display home screen,you can control the system with the touch of a finger. The applica-tion can be displayed full-screen, or in a window alongside othernavigation data such as electronic charts or radar.

Boating at night has always been a unique experience. With Raymarine thermal night vision technology, it’s uniquely empow-ering as well. Visit raymarine.com for more information.


WE’RE HERE

Join now.

With Sea Tow Captains, helping boaters around the clock is our way of life.

24 HOURS A DAY7 DAYS A WEEKBoston Whaler Owners Club Members receive 14 months of Sea Tow Membership for the price of 12. Visit seatow.com or call 800-4-SEATOW and use promo code: BWF

®

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Your Boston Whaler inspires adventure, spontaneity and long days bond-ing with family and friends. Feed your appetite for the good things in lifewith an easy, delicious meal while onboard your Whaler or back on landafter a beautiful day on the water. Relax with a bottle of New Zealandwinemaker Nobilo's famous Icon Pinot Noir.

Rich aromas of blackberries, cherries and plums withcocoa and spicy oak undertones come from fruits grown inthe Southern Wairau Valleys where the days are hot andthe nights are cool, adding intensity and balance to thissoft but structured wine. The Icon Pinot Noir pairs per-fectly with char-grilled tuna served the New Zealand

way—simple and delicious.

Serves 6Ingredients6 tuna fillet steaks, 5 oz each1 tsp sweet smoked Spanish paprikaSea salt2 Tbsp olive oil

Make It Season each tuna steak with paprika, salt and olive oil.

Char-grill on a hot barbecue plate until just rare.

Serve atop seasonal vegetables and enjoy with a glassof Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir.

Find more delicious pairings at nobilowines.com.

A FEAST FOR THE SENSES

Essex Credit is pleased to offer Boston Whaler owners

who wish to seek refinancing a low rate of 3.85% APR*.

When paired with Essex’s popular 10-year loan, this in-

terest rate may save you up to $43,000* in interest over the

typical life of a loan. Or select one of Essex’s many other

loan term options—from five years to 12 years to 20 years.

With far more boat loan offerings than standard banks,

Essex can find the ideal plan for you and your lifestyle.

Make your refinance process as quick, easy and stress-free

as possible. Visit essexcredit.com for more information.

*Estimated APR (Annual Percentage Rate). Subject to consumer loan program requirements and credit approval. Certain fees, closing costs and restrictions mayapply. Other rates and terms are available. Saving example: loan of $80,000 with a rate of 3.85% for 10 years as compared to a loan of $80,000 with a rate of 6.24% for 20 years.

LO OKING FOR THERIGHT REFINANCE

LOAN TERM?

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SKILLFULLY CRAFTED. ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 40% Alc./Vol. ©2014 Imported by William Grant & Sons, Inc. New York, NY.

A M A S T E RPIEC E

100 Y E A R S IN T HE M A K IN G

It takes 70 years to grow the oak trees

that make our casks. Then a further

stretch of time spent aging bourbon.

Only then can the casks reach Glenfiddich

to be rebuilt and filled, then set aside

again. In the case of Glenfiddich

Excellence 26 Year Old, for more than

a quarter century. The result is rich,

balanced and full of character.

In a word, excellent.

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A GMC vehicle and your Whaler are all you need to explore sites both urban and natural, like downtown Chattanooga (top le), the Tennessee River (top right) and Cumberland State Park (right).

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WLake CumBerlandBegin your trip at the beautiful Lake Cumberland, locatedin south-central Kentucky, which was recently selected asUSA Today’s fourth best recreational lake in the country. Located within two state parks, the 65,530-acre lake offersboaters and nature-enthusiasts endless opportunities to explore. Bass, bluegill, crappie, rockfish and walleye are theangler’s targets here. For others, the Lake Cumberland StateResort Park offers watersports, hiking trails and rentablelodges. Nearby vineyards, wineries and local farms also offervisitors a chance to try something fresh and new.

Watts Bar LakeHop on US-127 S and I-40 E to TN-58 S/N Kentucky St andmake your way to Watts Bar Lake, which is 72 miles longand located at the northern end of the Tennessee River.Watts Bar Lake is perfect for devoting time to outdoor ac-tivities both on and off your Whaler. Fishing is popular yearround with schools of large and smallmouth bass, bluegill,crappie, catfish, white bass and striped bass, depending onthe season. Watersports, camping and cabin rentals makeWatts Bar a relaxing and enjoyable time to reconnect withnature and your crew.

Tennessee RiverEnd your trip at the Tennessee River in Chattanooga, Tennessee, about an hour away from Watts Bar on TN-304 S,TN-302 S and TN-30 W to US Hwy 27 S. e Blueway Trailhere was designated the National Scenic River Trail in 2002and offers visitors a chance to experience local wildlife preserves and camping in the lush forests lining the rivergorge. Nearby parks, museums and trails are perfect activi-ties for a day with family and friends. For a more urbanexperience, Chattanooga also boasts numerous restaurantsand other fun attractions, including live music and riverevents throughout the year. MarineMax Chattanooga, thelocal Boston Whaler dealership, is close by for any boatingneeds or questions you may have.

Whether you reside in the Southeast region or arelooking for a friendly place to visit, the states of Kentucky andTennessee offer an abundance of opportunities to be fully im-mersed in nature, to reconnect with both the road and thewater, and to go on adventures with loved ones—the memoriesof which will last a lifetime. Gather your crew and get on theroad with these trailering tips and ideas to make the most ofyour experience. With the winning combination of a sophisti-cated GMC vehicle and a confident-to-the-core BostonWhaler, your itinerary looks all the sweeter.

Ready, Set…PrepBefore you hit the road, you’ll want to ensure that yourvehicle and trailer are in good working order. use thefollowing checklist, compiled By the experts at gmc, tomake sure you’re all set for adventure. (find additionaltips at gmc.com/trailering-towing.html or consult yourlocal Boston whaler dealer.)

WHALER

towing

Bluegrass & Honky-TonkKentucky and Tennessee provide ample opportunities

to savor nature with your Boston Whaler.Story by Monica Park | Trailering photo by Mike Calabro

Hitch:❏ Receiver locking pin❏ Bolts❏ Hitch ball❏ Wiring harness and plug

Mirrors & Lights:❏ Mirrors (clean and adjusted)❏ Brake lights❏ Head- and taillights❏ Turn signals❏ Four-way flashers

Tires:❏ Tread❏ Inflation

Trailer:❏ Safety chains/cables❏ Springs❏ Tire inflation❏ Brakes & brake lights❏ Wheel bearings❏ Rollers/bunks❏ Bow winch

“ ”Nearby parks, museums and trailsare perfect activities for a day with

family and friends.

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As his daughter heads off to college, an Alabama father discovers a new way to stay connected: through a shared passion for the Boston Whaler lifestyle S t o r y b y N i c k W e l d o n | P h o t o s b y M i k e C a l a b r o

RUNS IN THE FAMILY

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I18 | vol. 6, issue 2 | www.bostonwhaler.com

He glances back to see his daughter, Anne Norris, ably maneuvering through his wake in her own 130 Super Sport. Rick might be understating how much Anne Norris takes after him; they share not only a love of boating but also the outdoors in general, and dirt bikes specifically. And in the fall, as her old man did years ago, she’ll pursue her pre-med ambitions at Mobile’s Spring Hill College.

Rick never became a doctor—he wound up with dual degrees in biology and psy-chology before finding his true calling in the pool business, where he now owns his own company—but he did grow up to be a doting father. When Anne Norris finished high school in the spring, just weeks after he purchased his brand-new Montauk at Breath’s Boats in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, Rick returned to the dealer to get his daughter the ultimate graduation present: her own Boston Whaler. “I enjoy seeing my 18-year-old daughter behind me driving her own Whaler,” he says, a smirk growing across his bearded face. “You could say the boat was a bit of a bribe.”

“ I’ve been lucky enough to have a daughter who’s a bit of a daddy’s girl,” Rick Eslava says as he points his 190 Montauk into the breeze-whipped but sparkling Bon Secour Bay, which curves east out of Alabama’s sprawling Mobile Bay.

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Rick and Anne Norris, with cousins Jessica (18) and A.J. (15) in tow, navigate the bay’s light chop with ease, as dolphins frolic and brown pelicans plunge for fish nearby. They steer toward the placid, tree-lined Intracoastal Waterway to commence the day’s adventure. Exploring the diverse waters and secret treasures of Alabama’s Gulf Coast has become a weekend staple since the springtime Whaler pur-chases. Some days they poke around swampy bayous, on others they ski and tube, and on others yet they cruise to the famed white-sand beaches that extend in either direction from the Alabama-Florida state line. Rick recently purchased new fishing gear, too, with aims of hitting the rich inshore waters for speckled trout and redfish. Sit-ting on a cushioned bow cooler, savoring the breeze, Rick’s wife and Anne Norris’s stepmother, Julie, takes some of the credit for sparking this new family tradition.

“We were returning from watching a motocross event in Texas,” she says, “and, driving through all the beautiful swamps of Louisi-ana, I mentioned how nice it would be to have a boat to poke around those kinds of places and spot alligators, that kind of thing.” Julie, like Rick, grew up in Mobile, and she has fond memories of a vintage Whaler her family used to explore the ponds near their property. “All I knew was Boston Whaler,” she says. “To me, there’s no other brand.”

Rick grew up crewing on his father’s sailboat. “My dad was Cap-tain Bligh,” he says, joking about his Marine father’s demanding nature. “Try scrubbing teak in 30-knot winds in January.”

As a nod to her husband’s sailing past, Julie bought Rick a faux-teak Boston Whaler helm mat for Father’s Day. But while Rick appreciates the seaworthiness he gained under his father’s command, he always had his eyes on less-taxing watercraft: specifically, Boston Whalers. “I used to see them and admire them,” he says. “And I love the Montauk—the open layout, the great gas mileage. It’s the easiest boat I’ve ever used.

“Plus, Whalers have always had a reputation as a great boat, and when one pulls up somewhere, people always stop and look.”

Rick’s assertion is quickly proven as he and Anne Norris tie up their Whalers at the long dock extending from Pirate’s Cove, a lo-cally famous waterside dive and mini-beach tucked in near Perdido Bay. From the other side of the dock a man approaches the Super Sport and, seeming to be speaking to himself at first, says, “What a beautiful Whaler. I love a Boston Whaler.” Anne Norris thanks him, and he replies, “Oh, man, that boat will never quit running. Or sink!”

Over cheeseburgers and onion rings, Rick and Anne Norris hatch a plan to cruise to Robinson Island, a popular tie-up spot, and then under the Perdido Beach Boulevard bridge to Perdido Pass at the mouth of the Gulf of Mexico.

Anne Norris deftly manipulates the side-mount control to her Super Sport’s 40-horsepower Mercury® engine and weaves through Pirate’s Cove’s thickening lunchtime boat traffic and back out toward the bay. She’s only been piloting for a few months, but the Super Sport’s turnkey operation has made her learning curve notably short.


“WHALERS HAVE ALWAYS HAD

A REPUTATION AS A GREAT

BOAT, AND WHEN ONE PULLS

UP SOMEWHERE, PEOPLE

ALWAYS STOP AND LOOK.”



“I’m really confident with it,” she says, and notes how its versatility is ideally matched to southern Alabama’s varied waters. “I can take it up in the Dog River or Fowl River, which is basically the woods, or I can come out this way toward the beach and Gulf.”

“Alright, sweetie, follow me,” Rick says through Anne Norris’s radio as he guides her past the crowded beach of Robinson Island and toward the bridge. Jessica sits next to Anne Norris on the cap-tain’s bench, people watching, while A.J. stretches out on the portside bow cushions.

“My dad taught me everything I know about boating,” Anne Norris says, as she throttles back and pulls parallel with Rick near the inlet’s eastern beach. Like her father, Anne Norris knows she’s only scratched the surface of her new boat’s potential. Starting school in the fall means she’ll have the opportunity to share her love of boating with even more people. “I’m probably going to make a lot of new friends,” she says, laughing.

“The fact that it’s ‘The Unsinkable Legend’ makes me feel safe,” she says, “but it also makes me feel proud. It’s The Unsinkable Legend.”

Father and daughter confer again and decide to cruise back in-shore to Ingram Bayou, and then back to the ICW and the dock. The buzz of the open bay fades to a hush once the pair of Whalers enters the tranquil bayou. Longleaf pines shroud the inlet and suffuse the air with a fresh scent. “You remember this, Anne Norris?” Rick asks as he steers the Montauk astride the Super Sport. “This is where you learned how to ski.”

Nostalgia is thick here, but so is the anticipation for what comes next. Rick takes the lead out of the bayou and heads toward the set-ting sun over a now glass-flat Mobile Bay. “You give a kid a boat, he or she won’t get into any trouble,” he says, wearing the bittersweet smile of a father about to send his only daughter off to college.

Rick radios to Anne Norris as he hits the open water of the bay. “Y’all having fun back there?”

“Yeah!” the three call back in unison. Rick cheerfully draws out his 10-4. “Alriiiight!”

(Left) Rick and Julie get cozy in the bow of their 190 Montauk. (Below) Anne Norris masterfully takes to the helm of her 130 Super Sport while cousin A.J. rides shotgun.


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bw.fa15.PuertoRico_Layout 1 12/3/15 12:01 PM Page 24

A traveler heading to Fajardo, Puerto Rico, from San Juan faces a choice: TakeGoogle Maps’ advice and follow a combination of heavily trafficked toll roadsand expressways; or take the 187, a rougher stretch of road that arcs along thenortheastern coast of the island. Choose the latter and plan on testing your defensive driving skills, as the pavement winds precariously through a series ofsmall towns where two opposing lanes feel more like one and a half.

But the adventurous choice has its rewards. For one thing, this path to thecoast is lined with the island’s best kioskos, humble cinderblock structures selling hot empanadillas overstuffed with camarones swimming in molten redsauce. They’re undeniably delicious, but the best part is that they can be enjoyedwhile strolling a beautiful expanse of unoccupied beach that lies just off the road, hidden by a row of palm trees. Ta-dah—you’ve just proven that theroad less traveled can, indeed, make all the difference.

puerto rico: Gateway to AdventureStory by Amy Wideman | Photos by Mike Calabro

A 420 OutrAge helps JOsé And MilA FullAnAenJOy their islAnd hOMe bAse tO the Fullest



JJosé and Mila Fullana understand this principle well, although thepaths they frequent most often don’t involve roads in the traditionalsense. The Fullanas, who live in San Juan and boat out of Fajardo, arethe proud owners of the very first 420 Outrage ever sold. In just eightmonths’ time, they’ve put an impressive 290 hours on the mightyWhaler’s quad Mercury Verado® engines. Who needs roads when theocean is your playground?

No strangers to the sea, José and Mila grew up in Puerto Rico andboth prefer to be on the water as much as possible. They met as teenswhen their families had neighboring beach houses. “He was always inlove with me,” Mila smiles. It wasn’t exactly an instant match; at onepoint she actually moved away to Spain, intent on becoming a nun.José’s patience was rewarded when she eventually moved back home.Soon enough, love won out.

These days, José’s position with a prominent construction company occupies a great deal of his time and focus, but come theweekend or a lull in the action, the couple can usually be found boating. There’s another vessel in the family, a 72-foot yacht theyplayfully refer to as “the limo.” However, the Whaler is where the real fun happens. “The 420 is the sports car,” Mila explains. “José prefers to drive it.”

The Outrage’s powerful performance and soft, smooth ride are sosports car-like, in fact, that the 3-hour trip to the British Virgin Islandssails past like so much asphalt under the wheels of an Aston Martin.The couple makes regular trips to Scrub Island, where they own a va-cation property.

Nearer to home, they recommend Pasaje Medio Mundo, the water-way between Puerto Rico and Isla Piñeros, for its calm, photoshoot-friendly conditions. They settle into the soft bow seats and re-count the day Boston Whaler Director of Large Boat Sales Wil Rogersfirst introduced them to the 420. “We saw the boat in the factory whenit was still wrapped in cardboard and went, ‘Yeah…’” José says with aslow nod and a raised eyebrow that speaks volumes. The flagship Out-rage had found its owners, no question. Its name was also a no-brainer:They christened it Mila. “Like two music notes,” she winks. “Mi-La.”


(Top) José lifts the leaning post’s work surface to reveal a handy grill and sink.(Right) Mila strikes a pose. “I feel like Ava Gardner!” she laughs.



(Top left) El Yunque National Forest draws hikers from aroundthe world with its lush beauty and wildlife, including (bottomright) the coqui frog. (Above) José captains the 420 with ease.


Long familiar with the Boston Whaler brand, the Fullanas previ-ously owned a 370 Outrage, and their son a 270—both purchased withguidance from Wally Castro, whose eponymous dealership hosts an annual “Christmas in July” boating extravaganza that draws thousandsof attendees as boisterous as the owner himself. Conveniently, WallyCastro Marine has a headquarters in Marina Puerto del Rey, wherethe Fullanas keep their boat. Back at the helm, José confidently scans his three Raymarine®

screens, monitoring the course back to shore. “It drives very well,” hesays, leaning back against the captain’s seat’s flip-up bolster. Besidehim, Mila adjusts her stylish broad-brimmed sunhat—one of severalshe keeps onboard—to deflect some of the morning’s rays. Puerto Rico’sclimate is steamy, she confirms, which is all the more reason they appreciate the Whaler’s easy operation. “When it gets too hot, we geton the boat, we go,” she says. The couple has three adult children, two sons and a daughter, and

eight grandkids. “Our kids live two minutes from home,” Mila says. “InPuerto Rico, we’re like this—” she adds, throwing her arms wide andthen wrapping them close in the gesture of a giant hug, her glitteringeyes emphasizing the point: Family stays together. When they do leave home, they often do that together, too. The list

of places they have visited is long, and the trips all classify as exciting.Alaska, Costa Rica, Switzerland, Vermont… The world is a big place,and the Fullanas are determined to see as much of it as possible—ideally from onboard their Whaler.

Mila recounts one of the first times she and José slept on their 420 Outrage. The night was so beautiful, they opted to forgo the cabin’sV-berth and instead slept outside on the bow’s sprawling forwardlounge. “It was the best sleep,” Mila says. “Every time we woke up, wesaw the stars.” In Puerto Rico, they don’t have to venture far to find natural beauty.

El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. national forest system, lies mid-island. An estimated 1.2 million visitors a year take in its dramatic waterfalls, lush foliage and diverseanimal inhabitants. Among them, the beloved coqui frog can be heardfrom dusk ’til dawn chirping the call for which it gets its name: “Co-qui! Co-qui!” El Yunque contains two dozen species of trees andplants found nowhere else and is the only place in the world to spot theendangered Puerto Rican Amazon Parrot. To the west, the picturesque beaches of Rincón lure surfers from all

over, having gained international recognition through the 1968 WorldSurfing Championship. The pace on this side of the island is generallysaid to be more laidback and it is far less populated, with areas so remote they feel undiscovered. The villages filled with friendly locals,the crystal-clear water and the Caribbean sunsets combine to make itan irresistible destination. It’s easy to see why the Fullanas choose to reside in Puerto Rico; as

often or as far as their adventures take them away, there’s always some-thing to draw them back—to their family, to their Whaler’s homeport, toroads less traveled and more colorful.


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New additions to the legendary Outrage family mean even more possibilities for adventure STORY BY AMY WIDEMAN | PHOTOS BY RICHARD STEINBERGER

CONFIDENTT O T H E C O R E


C32 | vol. 6, issue 2 | www.bostonwhaler.com

True confidence—the kind that’s more than fleeting, the kind that powers us to do great things—comes from deep inside. It’s something we build, slowly at first but with gaining momentum, through hard work and thoughtful preparation. It involves knowing our strengths and using them to our advantage, whether that means honing a knack for storytelling or embracing a flair for PowerPoint. Fully developed, just about any strength can form the backbone of a success story.

And, as it goes in life, so it goes for boating. Boston Whaler believes in the funda-mental importance of confidence, because it is what empowers boaters to achieve their boating goals—to explore new and beloved destinations, to return home with full fishboxes and sparkling Instagram feeds, to log memories that will last a lifetime. Every Whaler is designed to deliver the softest, safest, driest ride imaginable and to provide a comfortable, intuitive user experience: Because when your footing is sure, your possibil-ities are endless.

Confidence: It’s a glorious thing, that feeling of being un-shakable, of knowing that no matter what a situation throws at us, we’re ready to handle it. Whether it’s a first date, a first marathon, or a career-defining presentation at work, confidence makes all the difference between muddling through and sailing through.




The newest additions to the legendary Whaler lineup boast precisely this measure of confidence. The 330 Outrage made its debut at November’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, leading the way for the coming 250 Outrage and 280 Outrage. All three models embody the serious offshore performance and just as serious comfort displayed by their larger and smaller siblings, which include the NMMA Innovation Award-winning 370 Outrage and the flagship 420 Outrage.

President Huw Bower stated it well at the 330’s introductory press conference: “Boston Whaler designs every boat to be confident to the core, and the new 330 Outrage exemplifies this focus. It is impeccably constructed, balancing stability and softness in a way that no other boat manufacturer has achieved.”

Each new Outrage model features a precision-engineered vari-able-deadrise V-hull, with full-length hard chines and lifting strakes, creating a noticeably smoother ride and beautifully predict-able handling. And thanks to a purposeful array of features, every Outrage is as well-equipped for epic fishing trips as it is for leisurely offshore cruises.

Consider the particulars of the 330: In the bow, a large for-ward-facing lounge with flip-down armrests is a prime perch, especially for watching the horizon while underway. Lift the seat to reveal a cavernous storage garage below, which comfortably stows large items like buckets, fenders and dive tanks. Plush bow seating opposite the lounge makes this a terrific social zone, and conceals

extra storage space for PFDs, ropes and towels. Anglers will appreci-ate the bow’s gunnel-mounted rod holders, too. After all, fishing with confidence includes having your arsenal at your fingertips.

“Everything in this boat is intentional,” explains Jeff Vaughn, vice president of sales, marketing and customer service. “Storage compartments right where you want them, walking space right where you need it, performance that never disappoints. Our custom-ers are incredibly savvy and have told us what their boating lives demand. Customer feedback has been instrumental in shaping the 330 Outrage.”

The cockpit further demonstrates Boston Whaler’s attention to de-tail and dedication to comfort and functionality. An aft-facing couch converts to form a leaning post, and houses an optional 40-gallon livewell. And, in one quick motion, the seat back slides up and flips down to reveal a large work surface. Additional features include a wide, convertible aft bench, which folds completely out of the way to provide extra fish-fighting real estate; an optional teak cockpit table, which also stows neatly away when not in use; and a standard 50-gallon livewell behind the aft bench seat.

Another standout feature in the cockpit is a new portside dive door, which provides easy dock access or, with the removable ladder in place, makes entering and exiting the water a breeze. For sport-fishing, it offers increased accessibility for hauling a trophy catch up onto the deck.

(Clockwise from top left) The 330 Outrage’s aft-facing couch easily converts into a handy work surface; the bow’s ample seating lifts to reveal equally generous storage; optional shades provide extra sun protection in the bow and cockpit.


Other amenities lend comfort on all-day outings, like a molded footrest and fold-down helm standing platform to suit the captain’s ergonomic preferences, and a private head in the console for when na-ture calls. An optional YETI® cooler with dedicated storage and an optional summer kitchen with electric grill are also available for added entertaining capability. (Every consummate boating host knows the importance of having cool beverages and fresh snacks at the ready.)

When it comes to captaining, an intuitive helm station is invalu-able. The 330 Outrage features an array of cutting-edge navigation and display technology, providing easy control of the boat’s power-ful, efficient Mercury® outboards—dual 300-horsepower FourStroke Verados® with hydraulic power steering come standard, with options up to 350 horses. State-of-the-art Joystick Piloting and Skyhook sta-tion-keeping, two popular features on larger Outrage models, are also available.

Similar confidence-bolstering attributes can be seen across the Outrage lineup, as advancements made in one model inform the next. For Whaler’s award-winning design and engineering team, innova-tion is equal parts strategic and inspired.

“Boston Whaler boats have always delivered unsinkable safety, thoughtful design and confident performance, which form the core of a satisfying boating experience,” Vaughn says. “The 330 Outrage, like the rest of the Outrage family, is a clear demonstration of Whaler’s ongoing commitment to advancing comfort and seaworthiness.” ”

“EVERYTHING IN THIS BOAT IS INTENTIONAL. STORAGE COMPARTMENTS RIGHT WHERE YOU WANT THEM, WALKING SPACE RIGHT WHERE YOU NEED IT, PERFORMANCE THAT NEVER DISAPPOINTS.


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A Maryland dad spends quality time with his teens onboard a trifecta

of Boston Whalers

S t o r y b y J e n n i f e r C h e s a kP h o t o s b y M i k e C a l a b r o

TRIPLE THEFUN


M38 | vol. 6, issue 2 | www.bostonwhaler.com

“The kids love boating,” he says of Esther (15) and Shane (13). “Although, my daughter is going to be 16 soon, so she’s getting a whole new life, but it’s great bonding time.”

In Maryland, Morris has a 370 Outrage he uses for cruising, entertaining and fishing, and a 170 Super Sport he uses for tubing, kneeboard-ing and water-skiing. “It’s perfect for that,” he says. “It’s got a lot of power, and with the ski pylon, it’s just wonderful.”

When it came time to choose a boat—or in this case, boats—that his kids would be on, there was no other choice for Morris than the Boston Whaler brand. “I always knew they were a top-quality, top-made boat,” he says. “I always like to buy the best that is available so that I am never second-guessing myself. And the Whaler fit and finish and the ride are so much better than other brands. It’s second to none.”

Morris Weiss might be a Whaler addict.He has two at his weekend home on the Severn River in Maryland and a third at his condo in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Of course, craving time on the water with his kids could hardly be considered a vice.




School has already started for Esther and Shane, but thankfully that doesn’t mean an end to boating time. When the kids visit Morris and his girlfriend Stacey on weekends, they make it a point to head to the river. Morris readies the boats while the kids haul their gear down the dock on Sunday morning.

The kids might be teenagers, but they’ve yet to be bitten by that bug that makes them deem adults uncool. Instead, they exude a sense of peace and happiness the minute they step onboard the 370 with Dad and Stacey. Sure, they probably have plenty of electronic devices to occupy their attention, but it seems they’d rather peer out at the scenery whizzing by. Esther’s cellphone makes an appearance to snap the occasional picture and lock in the moments. What she may not realize now—but it’s certainly something that Morris gets—is that years down the road she won’t need a picture to take her back to her teenage years sitting in the cockpit with her family.

For Shane, boating might be a bit more about that hit of adrenaline

he gets when being whipped around on the tube. But his wide grin indicates there’s no other place he’d rather be even when just sitting onboard the Outrage.

Family togetherness is what Morris remembers about his own childhood spent on the water with his parents, who always had boats. “Every Friday we’d go to the boat and stay there until Sunday eve-ning,” Morris says. “That was my life from about 6 or 7 years old through adolescence. Then I got my first boat when I was 19. It wasn’t a Whaler, so we won’t talk about that,” he adds with a laugh.

Stacey remembers crabbing with her dad on the bay. “When you grow up in Maryland, it’s a part of you,” she says of boating. She moves in closer to Morris at the helm seat, and it’s clear that these boating trips, big and small, mean a great deal to them as a couple.

With the 370 Outrage, Morris, Stacey and the kids enjoy catching rockfish in the bay or taking day trips. St. Michaels, on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake, is a favorite for its laidback


atmosphere, quaint shops and great restaurants. Closer to home is the Annapolis area, rich in maritime tradition and fun nightlife. Morris likes to moor nearby and just relax. “Taking the boat down Back Creek or Spa Creek, it’s so peaceful and charming,” he says. “It’s a lovely area.”

Sometimes a simple cookout onboard using the cockpit grill is all it takes for a great day on the water. The 370 Outrage has been per-fect for entertaining with its ample bow seating and roomy cockpit. “The layout is so great for large parties, groups or gatherings,” Morris says. “It’s a comfortable boat to be on.” Adding to the comfort is the cockpit’s optional canvas enclosure, which allows the family to enjoy the Whaler all year round. Morris says Maryland gets frequent nice days throughout the winter, and they often find themselves wanting to get out on the water even in the colder months. “The enclosure blocks the wind,” he says.

Down at his condo in Fort Lauderdale, Morris keeps a 270 Outrage, which was moved there from his river home in Maryland after the purchase of a 320 Outrage. Later, he traded in the 320 for his current 370 model. He’s also owned a 210 Outrage and a 240 Outrage, both of which he kept in Maryland. He bought all of his Whalers from Chesapeake Whalertowne, which has locations in Annapolis and Grasonville. “They’re a family-run business and very customer oriented,” Morris says. “You make a phone call, and it’s done. They are very proactive. Their sales and service departments truly look out for the best interests of their clients.”

He raves about how the dealership will monitor the weather for him and, if there’s going to be a storm, they’ll call and ask him if he wants the boat pulled out. “That’s great because I don’t have time to always be thinking about that,” says Morris, who manages a fork-lift sales and service company, a family business his father started. Chesapeake Whalertowne’s dedication allows Morris to focus on his business and his family.

Morris is quick to point out that he rarely has to call upon the dealership for anything since his Whaler boats and their Mercury® engines are so dependable. “With the six Whalers I’ve owned,” he says, “I’ve never had a failure or a breakdown or needed anything other than an oil change. Nothing has ever broken on them. They are unbelievably reliable.”

His three Whalers sport Mercury FourStroke Verados®—with triple 300s on the 370 Outrage, twin 225s on the 270 Outrage and a single 90 on the 170 Super Sport. “I love the fact that they are so quiet,” Morris says of the Verados.

In Florida, Morris uses the 270 for cruising as well as fishing near shore and offshore. “It handles the ocean wonderfully,” he says. “They’re hardy boats. They take a pounding. Even in 5- or 6-foot seas, the 270 gives a great ride. Really, I can’t say enough kudos about the boats and everything that goes into them.”

On the Severn River, Morris maneuvers the 370 back toward the dock at his vacation home. The kids have all those last-minute Sunday to-dos to prepare for going back to school. At the slip, Morris cuts the engine and lets out a sigh. He’s clearly wishing he could rewind the clock to Friday and do it all over again. Esther and Shane look a little bummed, too, but they give Morris tandem nods and grin as if to say, “Same time next week, Dad?”

”“It handles the ocean wonderfully. They’re hardy

boats. They take a pounding. Even in 5- or 6-foot seas, the

270 gives a great ride.


Cape Cod and a Boston Whaler 315 Conquest provide endless

adventure for a pair of fun-seeking retirees

Story by Jennifer Chesak | Photos by Robert Glover

THE NEXT C H A P T E R

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bw.fa15.CapeCod.indd 43 12/4/15 10:08 AM

K44 | vol. 6, issue 2 | www.bostonwhaler.com

Ken Debrowski gets right to the point about living on Cape Cod. “If you can’t find some-thing to do that interests you, it’s your own fault or you are an extremely dull person,” he says with a laugh.He and his wife, Kathy, are prepping their Boston Whaler 315 Conquest at Little River Boat Yard in Mashpee, Massachusetts. The plan is to get in some early-morning fishing and then cruise around for a bit just enjoying the day.

That versatility is one of the primary reasons they chose the Conquest model. The cabin space and amenities make for great over-nighting, and the overall size of the boat is perfect for their needs. “We are small enough that even in the summer at most destinations you can find a spot on short notice,” Ken says.

bw.fa15.CapeCod.indd 44 12/1/15 3:56 PM




Kathy hangs close to her husband in the enclosed cockpit as he navigates down the short stretch of Little River and out onto Waquoit Bay. The bay is home to Washburn Island, a large, un-developed swath of land that’s a favorite for campers, hikers and beachgoers. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation manages the island, which is only accessible by boat.

Ken heads across the bay and out of the cut toward Vineyard Sound. They stop at one of the shoals between Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard to see if any fish pop up on the sonar. For bottom fish-ing, Ken and Kathy typically use a five- to six-foot conventional setup with braided line. “The braid lets you hold the bottom with less sinker weight and is much better for feeling the fish hitting the baits,” Ken says. He and Kathy like soft plastic baits or squid strips. And they usually keep a six-foot spinner setup handy for when they spy surface fish.

“There’s water everywhere,” Ken says. “In addition to the bay, sound, ocean, there are freshwater ponds all over the Cape that are stocked with fish.” He hasn’t done any freshwater fishing himself, but rumor has it, he adds, the catching is pretty good.

The sun has just barely perched in the sky when Kathy hooks up with the morning’s first black sea bass. She pulls it over the gunnel for a couple of quick pictures and then tosses it back into its salty home. Ken and Kathy catch a few more bass and one fluke before

calling it quits on the fishing and heading towards Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard for more leisurely sightseeing.

The Debrowskis enjoy Oak Bluffs because it has a very quaint feel. The town is famous for its stunning, colorful Carpenter Gothic archi-tecture. These “gingerbread cottages,” as they’re often called, owe their history to a Methodist camp at Wesleyan Grove, which began as a tent community in the 1830s. As the camp grew each year, the beautiful cottages replaced the tents. A wrought-iron Tabernacle, built in 1879, provides the centerpiece of the community’s historical charm.

With places like Oak Bluffs a short ride from their house in Mashpee, it’s easy to see why the Debrowskis have made the Cape their full-time home. They moved in the spring of 2013 after Ken retired from Citibank, for which he used to commute to New York City from northeastern Monmouth County in New Jersey.

Ken’s only complaint about living on the Cape is that he’d heard one could golf year round, but he says with a laugh, “I’m still waiting for it.” He attributes that factor to two recent wild winters, and he’s sure that this year, he and Kathy will be on the green in January.

The Debrowskis are no strangers to inclement weather. They were living in New Jersey when Hurricane Sandy struck in October of 2012. At the time, they had a Boston Whaler 290 Outrage. Ken likes to tell the story of how his Whaler lived up to its unsinkable reputation: The marina had hauled all of the boats out before the



storm and had removed the drain plugs, as per normal procedure. After the storm, they found the boat on a salt marsh one mile west of the marina on the opposite bank of the Navesink River. Despite a 13.3-foot storm surge, the boat had very little damage.

That strong Whaler reputation is what Ken remembers of boating as a kid after his parents bought a 13-footer to use at their summer home on Barnegat Bay in New Jersey. “They were looking for some-thing low-maintenance, unsinkable and safe that also had good performance,” Ken says. “That Whaler was a great boat for water- skiing and fishing.”

The Debrowskis bought a 23-foot Conquest in 1997, the first year they came out. That was back when their three children (now all in their 20s) were still little, and the cabin proved very useful for naptime. “It was a great day and fishing boat,” Ken says. “The head was essential for the female boaters in our house, and the hardtop was great if you wanted to get out of the sun for a while.” When the family started getting into fishing a bit more, they opted for a 290 Outrage, and then the move to the Cape prompted the switch to the 315 Conquest.

The Debrowskis purchased their Conquest from Nauset Marine in Orleans, which Ken calls a “class operation.” He adds, “If there is any problem, they will make it right. When you buy a boat from them it’s like joining their family.”

One of the best things about living on the Cape for Ken and Kathy is the easy access to so many great ports of call, including Newport, Block Island and Boston. They recently even took a trip up to Kittery, Maine.

Of course, places right on the Cape hold their interest, too, like Provincetown, at the tip of the peninsula’s famed hook. “P-town” is known for its arts and culture scene, with many galleries, theater com-panies and writers’ and artists’ colonies. Curiously, the hook is actually considered to be on the “Lower Cape” even though it is north of the rest of the peninsula, which is considered the “Upper Cape.” The terms are thought to do with prevailing winds, but Ken and Kathy laugh at how it took some time to adjust to the idea while first exploring.

After browsing around Oak Bluffs for a bit, the Debrowskis are ready to head back out across the sound for home. They note that Martha’s Vineyard is always a favorite for them, especially when their kids visit. Brian lives in Dallas, Lauren in New Jersey and Lisa in Boston. “Brian is still looking for his Cape Cod tuna…I think he may need a better captain,” Ken jokes.

Because of proximity, they see Lisa a bit more than the others, but Ken and Kathy are glad their kids have found their wings. “They are all single and sort of doing their own thing,” says Ken, “which is what they should be doing at this stage in their lives.”

Thanks to the Conquest, Ken and Kathy are excited to be out searching for their own fresh horizons.

”“They were looking for something low-maintenance, unsinkable and safe that also had good performance.

That Whaler was a great boat for water-skiing and fishing.


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Documents

Whaler Volume 6 Issue 2