Table of Contents

We’ve seen boats built in Holland make their way to U.S. waters before, but none has had a presence as lasting as the Elling line of cruisers. The Elling 45 was an almost instant success, and Steve’s boat tour tells us why. Decide for yourself whether it’s because of the CE ocean rating, the long-range capability, the convertible top–or all of the above!

It’s fun to see the variety of cruising boats in our niche, whether under way, in an anchorage, or at the docks. When one reader got to know Popeye, she was sure others would enjoy meeting the stout, feisty tug, too. The tale of this brassy custom trawler and its owners is one of many to be told about the unique boats that are out there cruising.

The topic of tenders never grows old. We’ve covered the different types of dinghies, davits, hoists, and lifts, and now we get back to basics: does your dinghy meet your needs? Reflecting on the many uses of a tender may help you find your perfect match.

A knowledgeable cruiser is a self-sufficient cruiser. A properly operating engine is essential to cruising under power, so it pays to know what’s in your Holy Place. Empower yourself with Steve’s practical maintenance and troubleshooting techniques, and you’ll be able to approach your smoking engine with confidence.

We went to New Orleans to check out the International Workboat Show, but there was so much more to see. What we found was heart wrenching: a ravaged city still in tatters 15 months after Hurricane Katrina decimated the region. We also found resilience amid the despair and inspiring stories of survival, and we share our deeply moving experience with you.

When reader Susan Bruce and her husband decided to join the cruising under power lifestyle, their search for the ideal boat led them to Holland. There were lessons learned and rewards earned as they waded through the purchase process, followed unfamiliar protocols, and became regular European cruisers. The Bruces’ experience may inspire you to head to foreign waters, either to buy a trawler or to check out new cruising grounds.

Part of the joy of cruising is getting to know the natural world, whether you’re crossing an ocean, touring an inland waterway, or exploring a rugged coastline. Along the Inside Passage, cruisers’ encounters with nature often include grizzly bears. If you meet up with one of these magnificent beasts, you’d better be prepared. Some boaters have discovered a unique defense: singing. What’s your tune?

Come aboard as we check out a pilothouse cruiser that’s new to our niche. You might see this trawler on either coast, and you’re sure to notice some interesting design features: the sharp black outlines of the windows, the open saloon/galley, and the unique engine room access. The new Seville from Mariner Yachts is a modern boat that’s built to cruise.