posted 04-05-2001 07:09 PM ET (US)            

Glad to meet you neighbor!

posted 04-07-2001 10:41 AM ET (US)         

As you know, we're the proud new owners of a bouncing, baby '78 Montauk. Never attended any sort of rendezvous so don't know all that is involved. However, we are interested in participating although for the moment we're (literally) getting our feet wet launching, recovering and generally getting familiar with the boat - so much to learn, so little experience. Truly appreciate the collective knowlege in the Classic Whaler Forums and know meeting with other Whaler folks from the Puget Sound area would only heighten our learning experience. Bottom line, it all depends upon where a when. Big task ahead of you trying to plan and organize this gathering...Good On Ya'

posted 04-14-2001 10:48 PM ET (US)            

Any further thoughts on a Puget Sound get-together? I am interested but have never been on one of these. What is involved? How long would it be? What do we need to do to help?

posted 04-15-2001 03:03 AM ET (US)            

How about considering LK Washington because of facilities (marinas, restaurants, gas, weather, things to do for kids, etc). 1 day (Sat) with time on Sun for leisure get-together with others you meet and with similar interests.

Cruise on Lk Union, BBQ at Gas Works or Sandpoint(?)

How about getting more details on boats of those who would like to participate. I can handle Puget Sound with my Dauntless 14 but Lk Washington would be better. However, if most have bigger Whalers, the salt is fine.

This is getting exciting..

Go for it Dick! Will do what I can to help.

Tsuriki

posted 04-15-2001 06:57 PM ET (US)            

Sayers(sp) park might be another consideration. Seems well protected if the weather kicks up. Don't know about the availability of access, facilities, but was nice when I worked the Seafair races.

Newport Shores also has decent ramps and is just off 405. Also has a fuel station, if I am not mistaken.

What about fishing as questioned by another poster, Russ? Mini tournament in the morning?

How to get the word out to more BW owners? Will the local BW dealers help? Flyers to the local/West coast marinas? Flyers to the local/West coast Marine retailers?

Any Canadians willing to help? Rodger? Outrageman?

Tsuriki

posted 04-16-2001 02:03 AM ET (US)            

What kind of overnight places are you looking for? Hotel, Motel, Campsites? If Campsite, what will you be in, trailer (size) camper, motorhome (size)?. What kind of features (water, sewer, elec, etc) if any would you like? Will try to find a place for you. Also how many people in your party?

Will do what we can to make your stay enjoyable.

posted 04-16-2001 09:26 AM ET (US)            

Newport Shores is out. The earthquake destroyed the ramp and no idea when it will be rebuilt.

Am going to talk to our Whaler dealer today and try to get them involved.

posted 04-17-2001 01:48 AM ET (US)            

Thanks for all your efforts. Think it is getting close to finding out who initially are willing to come and what their ideas are.

OK, guys and girls....where are you?

Dick has the ball rolling. He needs our feedback.

posted 04-17-2001 08:25 PM ET (US)            

Had coffee with NWflyfisher today, It's nice to meet other Whaler owners face to face after only talking on the net.

Looking forward to meeting many more when we get this put together.

posted 04-17-2001 11:52 PM ET (US)         

Just my $0.02, but I think planning a rendevous with all the "official" activities occuring on a Saturday sometime between July and September would be ideal as long as it wasn't on one of those wretched holiday weekends where the population around the Sound triples. That's far enough off to plan, enough time to reach other Whalers who may not be on this forum and the weather is most cooperative then as well. Those arriving on Friday night could gather informally if they wished and those wishing to stay through Sunday could arrange excursions or get-togethers with others as they wish. Setting a single day for the formal rendevous would give a clear time parameter to everyone that may have other responsibilities/commitments including any potential "sponsor" (i.e. the local Whaler Dealer who might wish to be represented with boats, flags, banners, hats/t-shirts etc. HINT, HINT, HINT if he's reading this.) Something in the Central Sound area like Lake Washington is easily reachable from almost anywhere a Whaler owner might be located in the Puget Sound region.

Dick jumped out there and volunteered to put this together...let's all join with him to make it a success; it may become the first of an annual gathering.

posted 04-18-2001 10:27 AM ET (US)            

I am going to be dropping flyers off at all the marinas and shops I call on.

posted 04-20-2001 09:07 PM ET (US)            

My wife and I are thinking about driving up to Seattle and Anacortes with our Montauk (and our 2 dogs) in August. Our ultimate destination would be Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, taking the ferry across. This isn't exactly on topic for a "Puget Sound" rendezvous, but thought I'ld post here. Besides, it looks like you guys haven't picked a weekend yet. (I wonder how far it is by water from Anacortes to Friday Harbor?)

posted 04-20-2001 09:43 PM ET (US)            

I don't have a decent chart here at the house but it looks like about 14 miles by water. I haven't made that run yet but plan to this summer.
There is a real nice launch just past Skyline Marina out past the ferry terminal.

If in Anacortas lunch at Randy's pier 51 is a must. I time my weekly sales calls in that area so it's lunch time in Anacortas.

Would be great if your trip and your time frame would allow you to join us for our first rendezvous.

Yes dogs will be welcome, my boat doesen't leave without mine.

Let me know if I can get you any more info.

posted 04-21-2001 11:31 AM ET (US)            

We might get up there August 25, 26; not sure though because I've got a business trip the week before.

posted 04-21-2001 02:04 PM ET (US)            

I wouldn't bottom paint a boat unless I were leaving it moored for long periods of time.

posted 04-21-2001 02:57 PM ET (US)            

As Dick says, marine growth should not be a problem for you. I had a boat in the water last summer for the month of August and it only developed a green slime which almost completely washed off after a 20 minute run in light chop. I would say that if your boat was going to be in the water more than two months then bottom paint might be in order. Otherwise a good coat of wax will make it very easy to clean up your bottom after the boat is pulled from the water.

posted 04-21-2001 08:57 PM ET (US)            

Thanks to you both! And thanks to Einar, too, who emailed me some suggestions.

Well I think we've got a deal, and I never would have believed it. My wife, not really a boater herself, suggested taking our Montauk to Friday Harbor, and I figured, she was going over the top. And now, by gosh, I definitely think its doable! This lets me get on to the next step of planning!

posted 04-21-2001 09:50 PM ET (US)            

Happy boating

posted 04-23-2001 03:33 PM ET (US)            

We love it up there! At the time we wished we had had "water wheels" to get out on the water a little more, and taking the Montauk up there would definitely do it! Those islands and bays looked like they would be great for exploring! And we definitely want to do some sightseeing for orcas and eagles!

Friday Harbor felt just right ... with a little bit of civilization plus beautiful scenery. I can't remember a specific restaurant with a big tree. I can remember Downriggers, I think it is, a restaurant which is right on the water at the harbor. And across the street from it is the local brew pub that Dick is referencing.

Among our favorite, though, were the coffee shops, which had an old, local home town atmosphere as the bacon and eggs and pancakes were served up sizzling in the morning!

Chuck, thanks for the offer! I'll put my plans together first, and just might follow-up on it!

posted 04-25-2001 10:47 PM ET (US)         

How about an update on the rendevous? I think when last we spoke the time frame was somewhere in mid-August on Lake Washington. Has there been any refinement to this plan? RN wife is a state worker (chose NOT to walk out) and we'll need to put in for her time off soon.

posted 04-25-2001 11:11 PM ET (US)            

I would like to target the date for Saturday August 18th.

Fun fishing tourneyment in the morning.

Lunch at Ivers on Lake Union, take out and eat on the boats.

Maybe a stop at the Whaler dealer on the lake.

Lots of sights to see on Lake Union.

Bill Gates house on Lake Washington.

Feedback from all please.

posted 04-26-2001 12:10 AM ET (US)         

Sounds like a plan. Were you going to call Bill and Melinda to see if we can drop in for brunch or did you want me to do that? Let me guess. . . :)

posted 04-26-2001 12:36 AM ET (US)            

How about later than the 18th? We will be coming from Illinois and won't reach Seattle until around the 22nd. Would certainly like to join a Lake Washington tour.

posted 04-26-2001 09:33 AM ET (US)            

It works for me. How about the rest?

posted 04-26-2001 11:57 AM ET (US)            

I think that will work. I need to confirm with the couple with whom we are travelling.

Will be back shortly.

posted 04-27-2001 07:34 PM ET (US)            

Hopefully I'll get the boat in the water next weekend and scope out the posabilities and maybe get some new ideas.

posted 04-27-2001 09:03 PM ET (US)         

Thanks for locking in the date. Now, what can each of us do to help you put this together?

posted 04-27-2001 09:29 PM ET (US)            

What are your interests?

What do you want to do?

BBQ or lunch at one of the spots on Lake Union?

I like the idea of a fun fishing tourneyment. What about you?

What time does everybody want to start?

I would like everybody interested involved in the planing so we all have fun.

Everybody. Add your suggestions.

Greg
I'll be in Gig Harbor again in the next week or two. I'll give you a call in advance and maybe we can get together and do some rainstorming.

posted 04-28-2001 03:35 AM ET (US)            

Please, no "rainstorming". LOL

posted 04-28-2001 02:19 PM ET (US)         

I think the idea of a "take-out" lunch from Ivers as Dick mentioned in an earlier post is a good idea, primarily because its quick and easy and would allow more afloat time for everyone. Though I love to BBQ, it would require far more in the way of logistics, preparation, setting up, cooking and cleaning; it could easily chew up a fair amount of time for those actively involved. This would probably be OK if we all decided to spend a good chunk of the day ashore. If so, then the selection of a "home base" becomes extremely important. I'm not familiar with Lake Washington - are there places you can tie up and have easy access to BBQ pits? The idea of a "home base" to operate from sounds attractive, especially if local Whaler Dealer offered to put up a large "BOSTON WHALER RENDEVOUS" banner. Does the Columbia or Chateau Ste. Mechelle wineries have a place to tie up? They offer tours and free wine tasting. Could be a great "home base" for us wineos! :)

The idea of a "fun fishing tournament" sounds good AS LONG AS everyone fishes. Obviously I do, but it wouldn't be much fun for those who only use their boats for cruising (can't imagine who in the NW that could be, but its possible - check the Poll on "How Do You Use Your Whaler.") How would a tournament such as this work? Do we all camp out on a preselected VHF frequency and announce the catch as it happens (honor system? Who keeps score?) or would we retain everything competetive and have a "check-in?"

Here in the Harbor, the boating crowd is big on boat parades. Something along that idea in the way of a sightseeing cruise sounds good - Biggest to smallest? Newest to oldest? Vice versa?

posted 04-28-2001 02:41 PM ET (US)            

Takeout could be good or have someone cater (depending on the number of people). Catering could be full or limited to just delivering our order to a designated place at a designated time. Ivers, Dixie BBQ (Bellevue), Larry's etc.

Home base could be Sayers on the west side of Lk WA, a park on the west side of Mercer Is, Carillon Pt. just north and west of the 520 bridge, nice marina with guest tieup (they also have a nice cafe there, and a Kid Valley hamburger place nearby.)

posted 04-28-2001 02:44 PM ET (US)            

Columbia or Chateau Ste. Mechelle wineries are located far from Lk WA. Could carpool depending on the number of people who want to go. Also Redhook Brewery is in the same area.

posted 04-28-2001 02:59 PM ET (US)            

Smallest to largest?, reverse on the way back?

Dick, is the Redmond dealer going to help?? They are about 15 min from my house.

posted 04-28-2001 06:55 PM ET (US)            

I am not crazy about the Stan Sayers area, it's not the best part of town.

Magnusen (Sand Point) is easy to get to, clean and has good ramps.

The Mercer island ramp is not bad but gets very congested.

Newport Shores ramp probably won't be rebuilt by then.

Coulon Park at the south end has very good ramps, but a long way from anything.

Carilon Point is a very nice marina, but no launcing ramps in the vicinity and the resteraunt is good but spendy.

My choice is still Magnusen. It's a quick run across the lake to Carilon, a short run down to the 520 bridge and then through the cut into Lake Union.

Lots of sights on Lake Union and tons of places to eat.

We definately need to parade through the cut.

There are fish everywhere in the lake trout, crappi, bass and salmon if open.

Just a few thoughts for now.

Looks like 6 boats firmed up so far. Bigest one is an 18OR.

posted 04-28-2001 07:33 PM ET (US)            

OK why don't you decide on Magnusen. I've never been there so will have to check the map. Parking OK? Have a general idea where it is and it seems to be a good place.

How many people would like to fish Bass? how many for trout?

Do we need to make reservations for those who need a hotel? Seattle side or Bellevue side?

You've done a great job Dick. Just let us know what we can do to holp.

posted 04-28-2001 07:50 PM ET (US)         

The winery suggestion was pretty much tongue in cheek although if either were on the water might not have been a bad idea. I don't think we need to get out of boats to get into cars to make the trip, however.

You and Dick seem to be pretty knowledgeable about ramps, restaurants and all the needed amenities for the get-together...I defer to you guys on all that.

IMHO, several things are important:

1. A place with enough space where everyone can launch, tie up and congregate before the festivities begin.

2. That area having sufficient space for all to congregate without having to compete with the weekenders for launching or space on shore.

3. Being able to leave that area, go out and cruise, and then be able to return being relatively assured we can easily re-congregate ashore.

Like I said before, I don't know anything about Lake Washington and I've never been involved in a rendevous, but Donna (wife) and I are sure are looking forward to this gathering of the Puget Sound Area Whalers. I'm dropping off copies of Dick's flyers into every Whaler I find. Hopefully, we'll get the numbers up. By the way, Dick, now that we have a date locked in, how 'bout an updated flyer to everyone so we can all litter the Whalers we find with them? :)

Dick, you said there were 6 boats committed so far. As far as when to begin the festivities, I think we should defer to the person who has to travel the furthest (the guy from IL notwithstanding, he's overnighting regardless) to find if he/she will be doing an early morning drive or staying over Friday night. I think I recall someone saying they were coming from Sekiu which I believe may be the long haul. With that in mind, I suggest an "official" starting time of 0800 - naturally flexible depending on the group's wishes.

Dick, if you make it to Gig Harbor around 1400 (your lunchtime as I recall), I'll buy...Tide's Tavern (on the water) or Hi-Iu-Hee-Hee Tavern (not on the water)... both have great burgers - your choice though I suspect Tide's will win out. I still owe you BIG TIME for all the patience and guidance you've given me.

OK, now for the big question...where do I buy a Boston Whaler T-Shirt? I suspect that will be the "uniform of the day" on 8/25.

Greg

posted 04-28-2001 08:06 PM ET (US)            

The wine tour is really worth it, Very interesting and I guess helps to have a good tongue and cheek to catch the flavors. LOL

Dick is the guy that got this whole thing started (Thanks Dick) and knows more places than I. We need to defer to him.

posted 04-28-2001 08:11 PM ET (US)            

I think your first 3 concerns are met. A new updated announcement(some color for us with color printers) would be great.

I hope we get lots of Whalers to attend. Lets give Dick all the help we can.

posted 04-28-2001 10:03 PM ET (US)            

In the meantime, if it worked and is readable you all should have Lake Washinton maps in your e-mail.

posted 04-28-2001 11:06 PM ET (US)            

A BBQ would be great but like nwflyfisher mentiond, it's a lot of work and takes a lot of time off the water.

I'll scope out the lake in the next week or two and come up with a few suggestions.

Tie ups at any launching area on the lake are a problem. All of the ramps are busy and you have to get your boat out ASAP. We can stage off the ramp area and run to Carilon Point, Yarrow Bay or UW to tie up and go ashore.

T shirts are a great idea. What sizes does everybody need. I'll see what I can do.

Greg. You are on for lunch, sounds good, I may even break my schedual and eat early.

posted 04-30-2001 09:17 AM ET (US)            

Welcome aboard.

posted 04-30-2001 08:25 PM ET (US)            

Dick

posted 05-01-2001 11:44 PM ET (US)            

Might help to give Dick some help, interesting for the rest of to know the following. (Please use the same format)For me...

1. Model and size: Dauntless 14
2. Number of people: 1 person (wife has to take care of elderly in-laws)
3. Days attending: Sat for sure, maybe some time on Sun.
4. Fishing tournament on Sat?: Definately
5. Need accomidations?: No, live here.

Any other needs/ideas would help.

Please help Dick out,and the rest of us that lend a hand, to make this a great get-together.

Tsuriki

posted 05-03-2001 10:26 AM ET (US)         

Here ya' go:

1. Model and size: '78 Montauk 17ft

2. Number of people: 2

3. Days attending: Saturday, possibly some time on Sunday to about noon.

4. Fishing tournament on Saturday?: Not sure if you're asking whether to hold one or if I'll participate in one. In either case, the answer is yes.

5. Need accomodations?: No, we live relatively close.

I carry 26 gallons of fuel onboard and don't expect to have to refuel during the day. Not sure what other's requirements are, but access to fuel may need to be a planning consideration although I'm sure there are many places around Lake Washington with fuel docks - proximity to where we'll be? Accessability?

posted 05-03-2001 07:17 PM ET (US)         

Russ is coming from CA...I don't know the area we'll be at...can you help him find decent, low cost accomodations that are closeby?

posted 05-03-2001 08:42 PM ET (US)            

I will check out some convenient motels and post the information. Monday looks like a light day for me so I should be able to do it then.

Looking good. And coming together.

The oldest boat on the list so far is a 1969 13' plus 2 17 Montauks, a 14 Dauntlass, a 13 Dauntlass and a 18 Outrage. I am sure we will get more befor the Big Happening.

posted 05-03-2001 10:08 PM ET (US)            

Sounds great. You have done a really good job getting this thing rolling.

Gassing up before launch is definately the way to go.

If you need any help on getting a motel on the eastside, let me know. I don't know the area neer Mag Park. Bellevue/Redmond is not that far accross 520. As for Russ, he will need one that is "Pets OK", right? (By the way, Russ how big is your dog. Motel will probably ask).

Dick, what times are you thinking for the fishing T? I can check on the regs, what is "biting" at the time, license requirements and put together some gear for those who want to participate but don't have their own.

Thanks again Dick for your hard work.

Tsuriki

posted 05-03-2001 11:06 PM ET (US)            

Trout, bass etc will be open with no restrictions on starting time, we won't know untill later in the season what the salmon season will be.

That Lab will probably be around 100#, If you check out the east side I will check out the west.

Going to get back to the Mariners game now so will catch toou later.

posted 05-07-2001 01:41 AM ET (US)            

If not VHF, how many have FRC radios?

Just trying to get some ideas in advance..

posted 05-08-2001 09:14 AM ET (US)            

As soon as I get a nice day I will make the planed run and then post a few pictures.

posted 05-10-2001 12:23 PM ET (US)            

I have VHF and FRS radios. It appears Dick also has VHF. What about the rest?

1. VHF?
2.FRS radio?

We can plan ahead on a "Main" channel and "bakcup" channels ahead of time. I can print them and have information available to all that attend.

posted 05-10-2001 12:56 PM ET (US)         

I have VHF.

posted 05-10-2001 08:58 PM ET (US)            

I am still working with the Whaler dealer to get them involved.
I will run the proposed cruise course in the next couple weeks to get a time frame of what can be covered.

As this post is getting too large I will be using e-mail for Rendezvous details as they are available. I will also send out a questioneer requesting details on your boat, etc.

Dick

posted 05-11-2001 08:37 PM ET (US)            

It would be a pleasure to have you join us if you are able.

I will keep you informed.

posted 05-11-2001 09:38 PM ET (US)            

Latest news!
Tsuriki is joining me in the morning to run the lake and help me firm up the cruise. With his input and mine I think we will come up with a rendezvous that everyone will enjoy.

We are at 10 firm and 2 possibles. That will be an awsome sight going through the cut.

posted 05-12-2001 08:55 PM ET (US)            

All future posts will be at:
Puget Sound Rendezvous

See you there.