We trailered Mara Beel II to Charlevoix, MI, for the Ranger Tug/Cutwater Rendezvous last week. We chose to head up the Upper Peninsula instead of hauling our boat through Chicago, since the traffic was lighter and the 600 mile distance close to the same. In fact, in northern Michigan every other vehicle is either a motorhome or is trailering a boat, camper, or something!
The gathering was both fun and entertaining. We met plenty of other Ranger Tug and Cutwater owners, making new friends and trading ideas and tips. Charlevoix is called "The Beautiful" for good reason. The harbor is situated on Round Lake, between Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan. The water is almost turquoise, and flowers grow everywhere. The marina is right downtown and close to great restaurants and fun shops.
Photos of the Rendezvous here.
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| Lake Michigan shoreline |
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Charlevoix's location on the western edge of the Eastern time zone meant we could sleep in and still see the sunrise.
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| The Emerald Isle ferry entering Round Lake from Lake Michigan |
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Pretty blue bridge that matches the water color.
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The Thatch House, the most famous of the Mushroom Houses
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| Our group was treated to a tour of John and Zita Winn's incredible boathouse. John and his 3 brothers founded Four Winns Boat company and subsequently sold the business. |
Video tour of the home and boat house.
John and Zita talk about their boathouse
We had planned to spend a few more days here cruising the area, but the weather forecast called for several days of wind, waves, and rain, so we pulled out our boat and returned home. We are excited to implement the tips and ideas we learned!
