By Gwen and Bob Mitchell members of the Michigan chapter
The 2014 Mitchell Sea Ray Bow Rider purchased in July of 2014 replaced our 50 year old pristine 1964 Thompson Sea Lancer that had been shown in the 2013 Hessel & Presque Isle Michigan Boat Shows. In our portfolio of boat inventory and the need to better carry younger children when viewing the spectacular waters and rivers of Michigan, the fleet was reconfigured slightly out of necessity.
The Sea Ray provides good seating and modern technologies, the deep V hull handles differently than the classics and at ‘forward idle’ particularly on a river environment with a following current, the tendency to ‘hunt’ rather than ‘tracking’ a stable course is annoying.
So the real story follows, a partnership in a Chris-Craft with our friends Bill and Gerda Fink of Black Lake Michigan.
The 1938 classic inboard Chris-Craft 15.5’ Deluxe Runabout christened “Friends” has enjoyed loving care for the last 20 years by it’s third owners. A complete restoration by Mayea Brothers brought back the boat and braging rights. Now in excellent condition with a tight hull, epifanes varnish, and reliable motor. She is regularly run and enjoyed by family and neighbors. The original cradle, cover, and owners manuals have been perserved. A custom Continental Trailer, covered shallow water hoist, and full mooring cover are considered necessities in maintaining a high bar of integrety.
