Meridian Lines Volume 6 Issue 2

meridianlinesvolume6 issue2

www.meridian-yachts.comwww.facebook.com/meridianyachts

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GMTC16MG800C_GMC Watch_SPD.indd GMC Canyon Watch SPD

010-TCTCNMG5001 (b1341-001668 Boston Whaler Magazine PG4CB

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18.25” x 10.75”

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THE MIDSIZE PICKUP ONLY GMC COULD BUILD.

THE NEW CANYON IS HERE.

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CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

S:17”

S:9.5”

T:18”

T:10.5”

B:18.25”

B:10.75”

F:9”

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GMTC16MG800C_GMC Watch_SPD.indd GMC Canyon Watch SPD

010-TCTCNMG5001 (b1341-001668 Boston Whaler Magazine PG4CB

B1124-002345 4/1/16 3/15/16

18.25” x 10.75”

18” x 10.5”

17” x 9.5”

1”

Actual Size

Jana K Jack C None

Stewart Gerich usdetlbw7713

GMC:2016 GMC:GMC Misc:B1124-002345 B1341-001767-00 16 TKBNAH GMC Crossbrand Magazine :Documents:GMTC16MG800C_GMC

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Univers LT Std, StratumGMC

Optional equipment shown. ©2016 General Motors. All rights reserved. The marks appearing in this ad are the trademarks or service marks of GM, its subsidiaries, affiliates or licensors.

THE MIDSIZE PICKUP ONLY GMC COULD BUILD.

THE NEW CANYON IS HERE.

1ST Assembly 03/08/2016188448A01g swop

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

S:17”S:9.5”

T:18”T:10.5”

B:18.25”B:10.75”

F:9”

FS:8”

F:9”

FS:8”

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Tim Schiek President

Scott Ward Senior Vice President & General Manager Sport Yachts & Yachts

Shelby Kirby Senior Marketing Manager

President, Publisher Douglas Leik

Account Executive Annie Brown

Editorial Director Randy Hess

Managing Editor Amy Wideman

Senior Content Editor Elli Purtell

Editor at Large Jennifer Chesak

Editor at Large Alexa Poteet

Meridian Lines is published twice a year for Meridian Yachts by Dino Publishing LLC. Any correspondence should be directed to: Dino Publishing, 350 W. Hubbard St. Suite 400, Chicago, IL 60654 email: [email protected]

The opinions expressed in this magazine are not to be considered official expressions of Dino Publishing or Meridian Yachts. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all editorial or advertising matter. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, or artwork. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph, or illustration without prior written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Printed in U.S.A.

Copyright © 2016 Meridian Yachts.

Creative Director Russell Duncan

Digital Creative Director Kraig Devenport

Art Director Justin Goode

Graphic Designer Brittany Huisenga

Photographers Mike Calabro, Robert Glover, Richard Steinberger

meridianlines

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A new boating season may guarantee that you’ll be out on the water,

but only you can decide exactly how to spend that time. Instead of doing

the typical, why not do the unexpected? Instead of being content with the

usual, why not venture farther afield? Although there’s certainly something

to be said for what you already know—after all, these familiar moments

help create lifelong memories and beloved traditions—there’s nothing

wrong with a little shake-up every now and then. The world is big, and your

Meridian is the key to unlocking all of its beautiful, awe-inspiring treasures.

This issue of Meridian Lines suggests some can’t-miss destinations to get

you started. Take in the scenic shores of the French Riviera (page 36) and the

incredible architecture of several American cities (page 46). Then find further

inspiration from the Lowthers family of Jacksonville, Florida. Their 441 has

allowed them to both embrace tradition and seek out new getaways (page 14).

Tapping into your inner explorer doesn’t necessarily mean venturing far away,

either. Your Meridian offers a new vantage point for the places you think

you know like the back of your hand. David Bonfili, owner of a 441 Meridian,

uses his yacht to see his lifelong home of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in a

brand-new light (page 22), while the Wood family takes breaks from running

their popular coffee shop in Nashville, Tennessee, to discover the hidden coves

of Old Hickory Lake (page 6).

Wherever this summer onboard your Meridian takes you, be sure to stop for

a moment and reflect. Wayne Tully, a 441 owner from Texas, never forgets to

do so. Every outing on his 441 reminds him of the journey he has taken to get

there (page 26). You only have one life, and your Meridian lets you live it well.

Make this summer count.

Welcome Message

04–19 ExperienceCoffee shop owners in “it city” Nashville find theiescape onboard their Meridian; a Florida family fits island vacations aboard a 441 into their busy,football-filled life

20–33 ProfilesA lifelong Pittsburgh resident explores his city’s industrial heritage and rich culture on a 441; life is blessed for a 441 owner in Texas, especially when on the water with his wife, kids and grandkids.

34–48 DestinationsThe French Riviera offers endless cultural, historical,gastronomical and marine adventures; the world-class architecture of several U.S. cities is best viewed from the water.

CONTENTS volume6 issue2

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A chronicle of Meridian Yacht owners’ unforgettable journeys, gatherings and adventures. A place to share knowledge, expertise and the finer points that make Meridian a genuine boater’s boat.

Nashville Successful coffee shop owners and their daughters

take breaks from the bustle of Music City onboard their 441.

+ Chart your next cruise with breakthrough navigational

technology. Florida A football-loving family uses their Meridian

for “boatgating” before games and escaping on vacations.

+ Get the best rates from experts in the boat insurance industry.

+ Finding slip space is a breeze, thanks to a new online boat

rental system. + Enjoy TV, movies and music onboard your

Meridian, no matter how far you cruise.

experience

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MUSIC CITY MERIDIAN Written by Jennifer Chesak | Photography by Robert Glover

The media has dubbed Nashville, Tennessee, an “it city” in recent years. Thanks to a booming startup industry and an always-fervent entertainment scene, more than 70 people move to Music City every day.

Although Brad and Lesa Wood made Nashville their home during quieter times more than a decade ago, they’ve gotten onboard the city’s recent tidal wave of creativity and entrepreneurship like newcomers, even opening their own coffee roasting business and shop (more on that later).

“Nashville’s growing, but it still feels very warm and welcoming,” Lesa says. And even during the moments when the city feels a bit too hectic, they have their own warm and welcoming getaway: a beautiful Meridian yacht.

The Woods recently purchased a pre-owned Meridian, and their adventures started right off the bat. The yacht lived on Lake Cumberland in Kentucky, and they needed it at home near Nashville. Shipping it on land would cost a pretty penny—money they’d rather put toward fuel while having fun on the yacht. Not one to shy away from a challenge, Brad pored over discharge maps to find a time when water levels would be right to execute the ultimate plan—moving the yacht down the narrow Cumberland River.

“We had the trip of a lifetime,” Brad says. “It was a pretty unique experience.” He recounts the story one afternoon while prepping with wife Lesa and their two girls, Alyssa (16) and Ayanna (10), for a cruise on Old Hickory Lake.

Lesa slides into the helm seat. “Are you ready for me to get the engines going, Brad?” she calls down from the bridge. Like a skillful old salt, she maneuvers out of the family’s slip at Cedar Creek Yacht Club—a place that’s home to many large craft.

The Woods scan the rows in the marina, pointing out various models. “We love our Meridian,” Brad says. “The fit and finish is phenomenal.”

Beyond the styling, the Woods like their yacht for its ease of use. “From the moment we got on this boat, she felt comfortable,” Brad says. He gestures to Lesa who’s already navigating up the main channel. “We’re both gonna go to U.S. Coast Guard captain school in the fall,” he adds.

experience

6 | Meridian Lines Magazine

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MUSIC CITY MELODIES Written by Jennifer Chesak | Photography by Robert Glover

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experience


Meridian Lines Magazine | 9

Brad has already earned a badge of honor from other boating enthusiasts for his intrepid yacht-moving adventure, which he embarked on with his friend, David. The route first took them from State Dock Marina in Jamestown, Kentucky, to the upper end of Wolf Creek Dam, both on Lake Cumberland. At Wolf Creek, the folks from Ultimate Marine Services met Brad and David at the ramp with a truck and trailer to portage the boat to a small launch near a fish hatchery below the dam. That portage is where things got a little hairy and the guys had to use boat hooks to maneuver power lines over the radar arch.

After that, they were on the Cumberland River. Until reaching Celina, Tennessee, the guys had to rely on satellite overlay using Navionics® on two iPads to identify shoals and shallows because the river lacks channel markers there. (For more on Navionics and Raymarine® navigation technology, see page 13.)



experience

Brad and David did chance upon a shallow area at one point and headed the wrong way at a fork, but all in all, they made it through that dicey stretch without any trouble and had a blast turning heads with the Meridian. “We’re on this itty-bitty narrow river on this big boat,” Brad says, “so whenever we would come across a bass boat or a canoe, we would say, ‘Hey man, is there like a marina around here?’”

The adventure was a great way for Brad to get acquainted with a larger yacht. The Woods opted for the Meridian after seeing a design show on TV. “We were watching something about tiny houses,” Brad explains, “and Lesa turns to me and asks, ‘Why don’t we buy a boat?’ I said, ‘You don’t have to ask me twice.’”

Before jumping up in size to the Meridian, the Woods owned a cuddy-style boat, which they took on wild trips like the Great Loop. As a child, Brad spent his summers fishing with his father in the Florida

panhandle on smaller boats, as well, and he bought his own vessel when he was 20. The Woods—in searching for a larger boat—wanted a quick escape that would allow for overnighting opportunities. “When we want to get away, we want to get away,” he says. They named the Meridian Family Therapy, which makes for the perfect joke. “People ask, ‘What are you doing this weekend?’” Brad says. “I say, ‘We’re going to Family Therapy.’”

Today, after cruising north toward Gallatin, Lesa gives Brad his turn at the helm. Ayanna cuddles on the first mate seat with her mom as if they were on the couch back home. Alyssa opts to hang out down below in the cabin in reach of snacks and where she can grab a little solitude. The shoreline has already turned a lush green speckled with the occasional flash of pale dogwood blooms signaling that spring has officially arrived in Middle Tennessee. The Woods are planning to attend a party at the yacht club in the evening, but are enjoying an afternoon cruise to their favorite cove beforehand.

FAMILY THERAPYLesa cozies up with daughter Ayanna (below) while Brad confidently mans the helm (right)


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experience

Brad is the deputy chief technology officer for Riverbed Technology. One of the things that drew him to the Meridian was the boat’s systems. “It’s a Brunswick brand, and everything is so integrated,” he says.

Lesa operates the family’s Nashville-grown coffee business. The company came to fruition almost by accident after Brad bought Lesa a coffee roaster for Christmas one year and they began roasting their own beans. Friends, the girls’ teachers and other members of the community began asking for a supply, and the Woods took orders. Eventually roasting and delivering on the weekends became too much, so they sold their product out of a farmer’s market. Of course they bought a bigger roaster to accommodate and sought a commercial space. The location on Nashville’s 8th Avenue South worked well to double as a coffee shop, and thus Eighth and Roast

was born. Yearly, the crew produces 70,000 pounds of coffee for the ever-growing Nashville population.

Of course, with this growth comes construction noise, crowded traffic corridors and longer lines at restaurants, but none of that bothers the Wood family. “Nashville has really changed a lot,” Lesa says, “just the people coming in, but you can still find that part of it that not everybody goes to. And we keep our secrets to ourselves—like this one.”

She’s referring as much to their Meridian as to their favorite cove on Old Hickory, a place you’d cruise right by if you didn’t know it existed. When Ayanna asks her mom why the turtles are sunning themselves on a log, Lesa takes her time answering. “They’re relaxing,” she says, “like we are.”



CHART YOUR OWN ADVENTUREPlanning your next Meridian cruise just got a whole lot easier, thanks to breakthrough navigation and chart-making technology from Raymarine® and Navionics®, the leader in content and location-based services for the recreational boating industry.

Award-winning Navionics Dock-to-Dock Autorouting creates intelligent, detailed routes through narrow passages and channels. Just choose your start and end points, and Navionics technology will calculate a detailed route that takes into account chart data, navigation aids and water depth. SonarChart™ Live allows you to engage your sonar and survey new areas or places where bottom conditions have changed, then upload this data to create bathymetric charts that will appear instantly on your Raymarine LightHouse II-based multifunction display. Share the latest data with other boaters through the Navionics Boating app, and receive their updates as well, so you’ll always know the conditions around the bend.

For more information on Dock-to-Dock Autorouting and SonarChart™ technology, visit raymarine.com/lighthouse.

SUCCESS AND SOLITUDEThe Woods' popular coffee shop, Eighthand Roast, keeps them plenty busy. Their Meridian provides a getaway.

»


While the phrase “salty dog” might bring to mind a time-hardened sailor, there’s much more in the name for the Lowthers family of Jacksonville, Florida, and their 2015 Meridian 441, Salty Dawg. Bruce and Leslie Lowthers and their 13-year-old son, Braeden, all have a soft spot for Leslie’s alma mater, the University of Georgia. Leslie’s whole family is from the Atlanta area, where she descends from a long line of UGA fans, while Bruce originally hails from Boston. Today, he and Braeden have adopted her Southern team as their own. The sports-loving family uses their 441 to connect with other Georgia fans and hold “boatgating” festivities easily topping any party stadium-side.


FLORIDA-GEORGIA LINEWritten by Alexa M. Poteet

experience

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The Lowtherses’ enthusiasm for UGA seems to hold a candle to only one other passion in their lives: Meridian yachts. The 441 is the family’s third Meridian, an upgrade from their 2011 441, which was preceded by a 2008 391. All hold special places in their hearts, but this latest yacht’s amenities have made it the favorite. Bruce was an avid sailor before the family transitioned to powerboating in an effort to upgrade their boating vacations from sailboat glamping to something a bit more luxurious. Meridian’s grand staterooms and well-appointed heads fit the bill, and they’ve been climbing up the Meridian family ever since. “Back in 2010, I was spending a little over 100 nights a year on our 391,” Bruce says. “While I loved it, we needed a little more room, as it had become more than a weekend place for us. We felt really good about our 391 and the experience with Meridian, so moving to the 441 felt natural.”

Over the course of their Meridian journey, the Lowtherses have built a lasting relationship with salesman Neil Plummer at MarineMax, and Bruce could not feel better about the buying experience. “I could fill pages about Neil, but to be to the point, he has become a friend of the family,” Bruce says. “We could have bought our boat from anyone, but Neil learns what is important to me and my family and attempts to put himself in our shoes as he gives us guidance about boats. He does not stop after we buy a boat. He is always there for us as we have questions, or he calls just to check in. He’s been invaluable.” And with such happy returning customers, one can assume Neil is equally thrilled.

While cruising around beautiful Jacksonville keeps them occupied most of the time, the Lowtherses’ event of the year is the annual University of Georgia-University of Florida football match up, affectionately dubbed “The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party.” The family’s far-flung relatives make the pilgrimage down to the Sunshine State to enjoy some gridiron action, snacks aboard their beloved 441 and, best of all, time together. If you thought this crew was made of casual UGA fans, though, think again. Bruce shares, “When we first got our 391, we wanted to add a logo of UGA’s mascot, Hairy Dawg. But being big fans, I wanted to make sure it was okay to use the likeness.” Bruce picked up the phone and called Tom Sapp, designer of the mascot that has been in use by UGA since the 1991 Sugar Bowl. “I never expected to speak with Tom directly, but sure enough he got on the phone with me. Tom asked some questions and listened to my story about our family and our love for Georgia. He said, ‘Tell you what. Give me a couple of weeks, and I will make a logo with Hairy Dawg for your boat.’ My family could not believe it. What a great guy.”

DAWGONE GOODThe Lowtherses make family a priority onboard their Meridian, whether cruising in Jacksonville, watching football or taking a vacation.

You choose to own a Meridian based on the trusted quality of the brand and the incredible ease of use. The expert engineers, designers and craftsmen at Meridian simply know good boating. When it comes to insurance coverage for your yacht, you have experts in your corner, too. NBOA Marine Insurance has served yacht owners for more than 30 years. Working closely with several exclusive A-rated insurance carriers, NBOA’s knowledgeable representatives will find you the best possible rate and walk you through the process.

Whether you’re searching for an affordable boat insurance quote, comparing boat insurance quotes, financing a boat, searching for the right towing program, or simply shopping for the latest in life jackets and other safety equipment, NBOA is your one-stop shop.

For more information, call (800) 248-3512 or visit nboat.com/meridian.

experience

T r u s t t h e E x p e r t s


S L I P S P A C E , J U S T A C L I C K A W A Y


Travel convenience has come to the marine industry! No more Google searching for marinas. No more calling for slip availability. No more confusing instructions for how to get there and when to show up. Snag-A-Slip, a brand-new online boat slip rental system, allows you to explore marinas by name, city, state or map region, and search for boat slip availability based on travel dates and yacht length, beam, depth and power requirements. Once you find an available slip, book wherever and whenever you choose. Both you and the marina will receive a confirmation email.

“The goal of Snag-A-Slip is to get boaters boating,” says Dan Cowens, founder of Snag-A-Slip. “What was previously a time-consuming and frustrating part of planning a boating vacation is now a lot easier—and you don’t even have to pick up the phone. Spending less time finding a marina leaves more time for the fun part of boating, which is being on the water and exploring new places.”

Snag-A-Slip is adding new marinas daily, with more than 100 partnerships currently on the East Coast, the Gulf Shore, the West Coast and the Great Lakes, as well as in Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico.

Visit snagaslip.com to learn more, and check back soon to learn about special events, rendezvous and opportunities to win some swag.

Explore. Book. Boat.™



The Lowthers family still uses the logo on their 441, and even had a table made with the logo inlaid in wood. Years later, Bruce and Leslie impress other on-water UGA fans with the story of how their Salty Dawg laid paws on some unique designs. Of Tom’s kind gesture Bruce simply offers up this: “In our part of the country, they would refer to him as a DGD (Damn Good Dawg).”

When they’re not enjoying football from their on-water clubhouse, the Lowtherses are on the move, cruising the coast of Florida. “A typical day on the water is usually an early start with a 2- or 3-hour cruise to our destination,” Bruce says. “Once we’re there, we will explore the marina. We always seem to make it back to the boat in the 4 to 5 o’clock hour for snacks and drinks before dinner. There’s always time for a little fishing off the back of the boat or maybe just a paddleboat ride.” After dinner, the family enjoys gathering on the bridge to watch a movie together or

Meridian yacht owners appreciate the best things in life. Whether you’re underway to a favorite destination or enjoying the comforts of home on the water, bring along your favorite entertainment in standard and high definition with the award-winning KVH TracVision® satellite TV system. These powerful, rugged antenna systems feature the reception and coverage you need for hundreds of TV and movie channels and hours of commercial-free music no matter where you roam. The TracVision TV-series and HD-series systems include such features as RingFire™ antenna technology for superior reception and the TracVision HD7’s TriAD™ technology for simultaneous reception of TV broadcasts from three separate DIRECTV® Ku- and Ka-band satellites. You know you’re getting the quality you deserve when you choose a TracVision system, winner of the NMEA Best Product award for 18 consecutive years. Available in a range of sizes to fit your Meridian. For more information, visit kvh.com/tvseriesleisure.

T U N E I N O F F S H O R E»

NEW HORIZONSThe Lowthers family likes cruising onboard Salty Dawg at home in Jacksonville (above) and while vacationing to new places like Amelia Island (right).

play dominoes. While they love their quiet time, the Lowthers family also likes to get out and explore. They recently took a vacation to Amelia Island for the Isle of Eight Flag Festival, and their next big cruise will be across turquoise waters to the Abacos in the Bahamas.

Braeden has grown up on Meridians, and among his favorite boating memories, Bruce fondly recalls one year when Braeden and his friends went trick-or-treating in a marina. But the yacht has provided more than passing fun; the happiness it brings to their lives has endured even in darker moments. “I can’t describe the spiritual lift it gave me two years ago this month while I was battling stage four cancer,” Bruce shares. “I would sneak down to the boat for a while and just be.”

After all, sometimes the water (and a good football game) is exactly what you need.

experience


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Pittsburgh A technology-loving Meridian owner uses his

441 to explore his hometown. + Take advantage of low

refinancing rates. Texas Life has never been better for a

Meridian 441 owner and his beloved family on Lake Travis.

+ Enjoy a whole new level of refin ment on your next trip

to the marina. + Protect and maintain your Meridian’s

running gear with these expert tips.

profilePortraits and accounts of the people living and shaping the Meridian Yachts story.

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profil

All Meridian Yachts have unique journeys to their home ports, but David Bonfili’s 441 had a particularly special international trek. After purchasing his 441, Obsession, from a broker in Ontario, David contacted several boat transportation companies to get the yacht to his native Pittsburgh. When none were able to help him with the international voyage, he called upon the power of the Meridian Yacht Owners Forum, a tight online network of like-minded Meridian owners and appreciators from around the world. That’s where David met Captain Keith Mackey of CC Yacht Delivery; together, they took their friendship from the digital realm to the real world and embarked upon a spectacular adventure to bring Obsession from Ontario to Pittsburgh. The journey remains one of David’s most treasured memories with his boat: “We traveled 2,800 miles in 14 days and successfully brought Obsession home to its new port,” David says. “The boat performed flawlessly. It was an experience that set me on a new path to future adventures.” And David’s been cruising for adventure ever since.

A MAN WITH A PLANWritten by Alexa M. Poteet

HOME, SWEET HOMEDavid and his friend, Connie, relax in Obsession’s spacious upper station (above) while taking in Pittsburgh (right).


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While his love for Meridian Yachts has grown anew with this boat, David was no stranger to the brand before. For eight years prior, he owned a 408 Motor Yacht. Great experiences with that boat inspired him to upgrade within the Meridian family. “I wanted the next boat to have a hard top, diesel engine and sedan style, which adds more space to the fly bridge,” David shares. “I am a gadget guy, and I liked the Zeus drives and all the electronics on the 441.” David has a bit of a reputation among his friends as being technology-obsessed, so it was only natural that the pièce de résistance of his gadget geekiness bear a name befitting his intense passion.

That said, more than just the onboard technology keeps David glued to his on-water home. The 441’s above-water salon enables stunning views of the landscape when he boats around Pittsburgh, and the livability is tops. “After researching several makes and models at various boat shows, I found the style and quality of Meridians suited me best,” he says. “The floor plan is superior to any other make.” David’s had the time to explore what he enjoys in a boat, too. The 441 is his fourth boat in 14 years, and he spent a great deal of his childhood boating with friends on Pittsburgh’s myriad waterways. The city’s central location on the East Coast provides tons of boating opportunities, which this hometown guy relishes. “I love the city and its three rivers,” David says of the Ohio, Allegheny and Monongahela rivers. “Pittsburgh also has a rich industrial heritage and offers a wide range of cultural experiences.”

WATER & STEELThe Ohio, Allegheny and Monongahela rivers converge at Pittsburgh’s Point State Park (above). Across the river, Heinz Field, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers, opens up to the water (top left).

profil


Until then, David is making the most of every day on his 441. A typical afternoon finds him entertaining friends, family or even business associates onboard where they’ll grill or grab dinner at one of the city’s dockside restaurants. “On a quiet day, we hang out with our boating neighbors enjoying the dog days of summer,” he says. “I live on the boat most of the summer because I’m minutes from my office and various client job sites in the city.” Some of his favorite visitors are his adult children, Jennifer, Jason, Justin and Jessica, as well as his friend, Connie. They like to explore the city views from the bridge or take David’s dual jet skis for a spin.

No matter who is in tow, guests always enjoy the spectacular views and comfort the 441 offers. On how the boat has changed his life, David shares, “I have met many new people and made several new friends and business associates.” That’s certainly true of his friendship with Captain Keith, who helped bring the 441 home to Steel City in the first place. While non-boaters might not get it, water lovers know there’s just something about Meridians. This is no ordinary Obsession.


Refinancing Made Easy»Essex Credit shares Meridian’s commitment to providing a worry-free experience. Essex is pleased to offer Meridian owners who wish to seek refinancing a low rate of 3.85% APR*. When paired with Essex’s popular 10-

year loan, this interest rate may save you up to $43,000* in interest over the typical life of a loan. Or choose 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 and easy 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 may apply. 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.

“ After researching several makes and models at various boat shows, I found the style and quality of Meridians suited me best. The floor plan issuperior to any other make.”


profile

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RAGS TO RICHESWritten by Elli Thompson Purtell | Photography by Mike Calabro

For all intents and purposes, Wayne Tully’s life hasn’t changed much from when he was a teenager: laid-back mornings spent on the water, followed by a long day of hard work. In his younger years, this meant meeting his buddies on the beach in Malibu to fit in as many surfing sessions as possible before heading to their respective jobs. “We’d head to Zuma Beach, grab the beer we’d left there from the night before, stop and get donuts along the way,” Wayne says. “We’d drink warm beer and eat donuts for breakfast, and surf for two hours before work. That was our lifestyle.”

Wayne’s current routine may not be quite as beach bum-esque, but it’s equally satisfying. Today, for example, he ’s cooked up some sizzling beef brisket and poured a glass of wine for lunch onboard his Meridian 441 yacht, La Vita Benedetta (The Blessed Life), which he keeps at the Crosswater Yacht Club on Austin’s Lake Travis. As the sun approaches its zenith and low, wispy clouds begin to scatter, Wayne reflects on his life ’s progression. “These days, my wife and I will take the yacht to one of our favorite coves along the Colorado River, sipping aged Rémy Martin cognac and enjoying a slice of cheesecake,” he says. “I’ve come from the beer-and-donut days to cognac-and-cheesecake days. The difference is a decimal point.”

The road to get there wasn’t always an easy one. Wayne grew up with nine siblings in Reseda, California. His family life wasn’t ideal, and he left home at age 14. He earned his own money by taking on landscaping projects, which he received based upon his good reputation in the neighborhood. One neighbor in particular, Bob Johnson, a voice actor best known for his role in “Mission Impossible,” helped spread the word about Wayne ’s quality of work among his neighbors and famous friends. By age 15, Wayne was managing a landscaping crew of more than a dozen people, and by 17 had bought his first home in Woodland Hills, California, all while completing high school. By the time he turned 21, he was doing landscaping work for the Calabasas Tennis Club, UCLA, the Wilshire Boulevard Temple and their 250-acre Malibu camp, as well as estates and mansions for the stars.

Not every moment of his younger years was spent with his nose to the grindstone, though. He and his friends always managed to find time to get out on the water. When not surfing, they would sail from Long Beach to Catalina in a 30-foot catamaran. “Any chance we could sneak out and go, we’d spend the weekend there,” he says. “My love for the water de-veloped early on, as a teenager.”



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Wayne also happened to fall in love with his wife, Jody, as a teenager. The pair met at a junior high graduation party when they were both 14. “She was the cat ’s meow of junior high school; I was this skinny, blonde-haired, 6-foot-1 surfer dude,” Wayne says with a laugh. “Her dad used to say to her mother, ‘This kid is trouble. This is pure trouble we ’re letting in this house.’” But after 43 years of marriage and plenty of adventure, the couple is still going strong.

When Wayne ’s landscaping business slowed down due to the region’s many droughts, he decided to enter the world of telecommunications and payphones, years before cell phones became popular in the ’90s. He and Jody eventually moved to Colorado, where circumstances called for another career change. He started the nation’s first online driver education business, National Driver Training, which he continues to run successfully more than a decade later. After vacationing on Lake Travis in 2010, the Tullys decided to make Texas their permanent base, moving the family to a new home and the driver education business into an Italian villa-style office in Lakeway, Texas.

Jody is almost always by Wayne ’s side on their Meridian, along with the couple ’s oldest daughter, Cherie, her husband, Steve, and their three children. “The grandkids are always asking ‘Can we go on Pape ’s boat?’” Wayne says. The kids like to sit on the bow while Wayne slowly cruises over to their favorite lagoon, which they affectionately call Malibu Beach after Grandpa’s former surfing spot. But even having spent his early years on the Pacific Coast and part of his adult life on the slopes and lakes of Colorado, Wayne says Lake Travis beats out both locales come sundown. “The sunsets here are to die for,” he says. “We ’ll throw the anchor in the lagoon and spend the night on the Meridian.”



Go far or stick close to home, but do both with assurance and grace, thanks to the all-new Acadia Denali. Learn more at GMC.com.

REFINEMENT ON THE ROADMeridian owners love their yachts not only because they transport them to ports-of-call near and far, but also because they make those journeys a comfortable, luxurious experience. Likewise, the brand-new 2017 GMC Acadia Denali offers the perfect balance of rugged capability and sophisticated style. The well-appointed and welcoming cabin features premium-crafted touches that lend both comfort and visual appeal. Aluminum trim and real Nehalem wood accents catch the eye, while heated and vented front seats deliver an extra layer of comfort for early- morning or post-sunset drives home from the water.

Whether making a quick jaunt to the marina or embarking on a longer road trip, the Acadia Denali’s precisely engineered power will get you there with confidence. The standard 3.6 L V-6 with Active Fuel Management produces abundant power, and the Traction Mode Selector allows for real-time control based on changing conditions.

LUCKY ON LAKE TRAVISWayne and his family never tire of exploring the hidden lagoons and coves of Lake Travis.



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The spacious cabin has plenty of room for the grandkids, as well as the Tullys’ other family members when they visit—daughter Jaclyn, her husband, Mike, and their two kids, who live in L.A.; and son Tristan, who’s attending Concordia University in Austin. Jody appreciates the Meridian’s large heads with showers, which makes the overnights feel more like a hotel stay than camping. “We ’re one of the biggest boats out there,” Wayne says. “With three levels—the helm, main and cabin—it ’s a pretty big vessel.” The Tullys often host parties for members of their church, one time sheltering 21 people inside the cabin when an unexpected storm unleashed its fury.

Wayne’s just as comfortable flying solo, too, thanks to Meridian’s effortless handling. After purchasing the 441 from Sail & Ski Center in Austin in 2013, he was required to take a training course that covered the ins and outs of driving a vessel of this size. Though he started out with the motto “slow is your best friend,” he ’s now completely confident at the helm, sometimes going out solo and hopping from marina to marina to show off the wares of his side business, an embroidery and screen-printing company. “This thing drives better than any boat I’ve ever maneuvered,” he says. “Now I don’t care if there ’s a storm or winds. I could back this thing in anywhere without a scratch.”

“The sunsets here are to die for. We’ll throw the anchor in the lagoon and spend the night on the Meridian.”


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Oftentimes, though, Wayne and Jody are content to simply hang out at the docks. The patio behind their slip has a fire pit and barbecue area, and overlooks the Colorado River, affording them views of water both in front of and behind them. And when the Texas summer heat gets to be too much, they simply move inside the Meridian’s cabin. Central air conditioning was a huge selling point for Wayne when Greg Buck, general manager of Sail & Ski Yacht Club Marina, first showed him the yacht. “I told Greg I was happy with the boat I had at the time, but after some persuading I went to check out the Meridian,” Wayne says. “I went to the upper station of the yacht and couldn’t believe what I was sitting in. In Texas, we hibernate between July and August because it’s so hot. So I’ll go wherever there ’s A/C!”

Wayne ’s life may seem like the quintessential rags-to-riches variety, but he prefers to describe it as a series of ups and downs that has taught him to never lose perspective or rest on his laurels. Though he admits he could be tempted to buy an even bigger yacht one day, he also knows first-hand how quickly things can change, choosing instead to focus on what he already has: “When you come from the circumstances I did to owning a boat like this...I can’t think of anything else I’d ever want. We are very blessed and very thankful.” La Vita Benedetta indeed.

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The longer daylight of summer means more hours of cruising onboard your Meridian. Keep your on-water adventures going strong by properly protecting your yacht’s running gear. Follow these three easy maintenance steps from the experts at Interlux®:

If your running gear has been previously primed and painted, remove all surface contaminants with Special Thinner 216, sand the surface and reapply the Micron CF. Enjoy your long summer days!

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If your running gear is bare metal, remove all

surface contaminants, then grit blast or disc grind the surface.

1Apply 2-3 coats of InterProtect 2000E, which is fortified with

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2Apply 2-3 coats of Micron CF multi-season antifouling paint. Available in a wide range of

bright colors and safe to put on any area of the boat, Micron CF uses Biolux® Slime Blocking Technology and reduces friction to improve fuel efficiency.

3

EAT, PLAY, LOVEWayne enjoys unwinding onboard his Meridian by himself, but given

the choice, prefers to have his growing family around.


Every parent hopes their children will do well and have a better life thanthey did. At Interlux, we feel the same way about the products we make.With each new advancement and generation of Micron® Technologycomes better performing, higher quality solutions. Innovation is a traditionwe are proud to have carried on for over 30 years.From the long lasting and always dependable Micron CSC to our new,powerful water-based Micron Optima with Activated Biolux®, we build onour past success to deliver state of the art protection today.

Whatever the year, you know you’ll always have the latest and bestin Micron Technology.

All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2015.

Micron: Generations of Innovation

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Cote d’Azur The lavish French Riviera offers some of the most

scenic cruising in the world, with rich culture to boot. + New

anti-roll technology prevents boat rocking and seasickness.

+ Follow the U.S. Sailing Team Sperry as it prepares for Brazil.

Hit the Road The new GMC Acadia Denali expands your map of

adventure. Architecture From the Water Take in the buildings

and bridges of Chicago, New York and San Francisco onboard your

Meridian. + Pair your Meridian with a seafood dinner and crisp

white wine (recipe included).

The distant places where Meridian owners find themselves—be they home or very far from it. A taste of stunning coastlines and the rewards that lie at the other end.

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CôTE D’AZUR Written by Elli Thompson Purtell

The French Riviera exudes lavishness of a different kind. The rich here are richer, expensive is more expensive and luxury is nothing short of opulence. Even the colors of the area have an otherworldly saturation and radiance. One moment under the sun, with sweeping views of brilliant aqua water as far as the eye can see, is all it takes to understand why 18th-century aristocrats helped turn this Mediterranean coastal strip into one of the first modern resort areas, and why royalty and celebrity continue to flock here. The gorgeous scenery and ideal weather simply beg to be showered with further glitz and glam.

Yet for all its in-your-face extravagance, the Côte d’Azur also has a simpler side. Medieval villages tuck into the hillsides, fishmongers and produce vendors sell their bounty as they have for centuries, and sheltered areas of beach allow for tranquil respite. Megayachts may fill the Port of Monaco, but plenty of other stretches of the coast bathe in tranquility, with merely a sailboat or two bobbing gently offshore.

Whether you want a laid-back day of sipping rosé in Nice or a weekend of indulgence and people-watching in Saint-Tropez—or perhaps a little bit of both all wrapped into one—your Meridian provides the perfect vessel for soaking it all up. Visit one of these coastal cities to get your fix of the good, make that great, life.



CannesPerhaps best known for its annual film festival that ushers in the well-heeled from all across the world, Cannes would seem to fit the stereotypical French Riviera scene to a T. But don’t let the nightlife and high-end restaurants fool you—Cannes offers a broad spectrum of diversions for all kinds of visitors, and many opportunities for serene escapes. Guide your Meridian yacht to Lérins Islands, a group of four islands just 2.5 miles from the Port de Cannes. The larger of the islands, Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat, offer gorgeous views of the French coastline, as well as their own natural bounty. Hike through the eucalyptus and pine forests of Le Batéguier, a preserve on Sainte-Marguerite, or tap into your historical side with a visit to the Lérins Abbey, an 11th-century fortified monastery on Saint-Honorat.

Saint-TropezUntil midway through the 20th century, Saint-Tropez enjoyed a quieter existence based primarily around f ishing. Bohemian artists and a smattering of tourists visited for the tranquility and stunning views of the Bay of Saint-Tropez. Eventually, the rich and famous caught on to the area’s appeal, and today the city is known for its high-energy nightlife, megayacht-filled port and gorgeous beaches. Stay in one of the city’s relaxing resorts, and take in the surrounding vistas of olive trees, vineyards, lavender fields and cypress groves. Walk the cobblestone streets of Old Town to see a mix of designer shops and simple vendors, and for a glimpse of history, check out the citadel, a 17th-century fortress that now houses the Museum of Maritime History.

Fréjus/Saint-RaphaelStepping into Fréjus is like stepping back an entire millenium. Named by Julius Cesar in 49 BC, this medieval port city features many historical ruins, including a Roman theater, aqueduct and amphitheater. Though the city of Fréjus itself doesn’t lie directly on the coast, the neighboring resort city of Saint-Raphael boasts beautiful beaches and upscale shopping, and the port at Fréjus-Plage provides convenient water access. For more time on dry land, hike or bike the Massif de l’Esterel, a Mediterranean coastal mountain range with breathtaking red cliffs, forests and coves that stretches from Saint-Raphael to Cannes.

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How does it work? Inside Seakeeper’s vacuum encapsulation, a flywheel spins at speeds up to 10,700 rpm. When a boat begins to roll in the waves, the gyro tilts fore and aft, creating a powerful torque that counteracts the port-to-starboard rocking. Seakeeper’s computer sensor automatically adjusts the torque based on sea conditions so the captain doesn’t have to. “With Seakeeper, factors like the weather, time of day and sea conditions won’t keep you from using your boat and enjoying your experience on the water,” says Andrew Semprevivo, Seakeeper’s vice president of sales and marketing.

The Seakeeper 5 eliminates up to 95 percent of boat roll. The lightweight product uses modest electrical power, no outside appendages, and can be installed off centerline, if necessary.

To find Seakeeper’s products for your Meridian and to learn more about this game-changing technology, visit seakeeper.com.

OLD AND NEW(clockwise from here) Saint-Tropez;

Saint-Raphael; Fréjus; Cannes.



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Antibes/Juan-les-PinsFrom the sea, Antibes and Juan-les-Pins (a small commune within Antibes) present a striking welcome. Port Vauban teems with modern yachts and sailboats, while Old Town Antibes and its ancient ramparts stand tall in the background. Stay close to the azure water by unwinding on one of nearly 50 beaches in the Antibes/Juan-les-Pins region, or explore Old Town’s many walkable shops, restaurants and markets. Indulge in a few vices by visiting the city’s Absinthe Museum or venturing to Juan-les-Pins, where nightclubs and the casino stay lively until early-morning hours. If festivals are more your style, come in June for Les Voiles d’Antibes, one of the world’s biggest gatherings of old teak and brass sailing vessels; and in July for the world-famous Jazz à Juan, whose 2016 performance lineup features Earth, Wind & Fire and Buddy Guy.

NiceThe largest city in the French Riviera, Nice has a range of cultural offerings for every taste. The centrally located Port de Nice welcomes both ferry companies and private yachts, providing a perfect jumping-off point for a day in the city. Nice has several public beaches, including La Reserva and Coco, as well as 15 private beaches. You can also get your fill of the sun by walking, jogging or biking the Promenade des Anglais. This 4-kilometer strip is lined with palm trees and plenty of seating to take in the Bay of Angels. Get an even more spectacular view of the surrounding city and sea by visiting Castle Hill, where the ruins of the Chateau de Nice lie, or do some high-end shopping on Rue Paradis. End the day at one of the city’s renowned restaurants, or keep it simple and indulge the Nice way: moules frites (mussels and fries) and a glass of rosé.

COSTAL CHARM(Left) The ancient ramparts of Antibes protect from the sea. (Below) The city of Nice nestles into the French hillsides.



WITNESS THE PASSIONYou know Sunbrella® as the manufacturer of the beautiful, durable canvas featured on many Meridian models, but did you know the company is also an avid supporter of the elite athletes of the US Sailing Team Sperry? “Uncharted Waters: In Pursuit of the Athletic Dream” documents the personal stories of the drive, determination and sacrifice of athletes pursuing the chance to compete against the world’s best this summer in Brazil. Visit sunbrella.uncharted.com to watch videos and read blogs about these amazing athletes as they endure grueling travel around the world for competitions and the demands of an unrelenting training schedule.

Villefranche-Sur-MerThis quaint coastal commune offers of the of the most authentic village experiences in the Côte d’Azur. With fewer tourists and less intensity than nearby Nice and Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer compels residents and visitors alike to slow down and smell the fresh sea air. Meander through the city’s maze-like Old Town, stopping to browse the local markets, sip on a glass of wine or grab a bite at one of the many cafes and highly regarded restaurants. Continue your walk to the shoreline, where a coarse-sand beach makes for perfect picnicking, and the Port de Villefranche gleams with bright white sailboats and yachts of all sizes.

Monaco This bookend to the French Riviera leaves nothing to the imagination. The Port of Monaco stuns with its megayacht-filled docks, and the palatial Monte Carlo Casino looks straight out of a fairytale when lit up on a warm evening. Skyscrapers and high-rise condos (including the most expensive penthouse in the world) scream modernity, setting this city-state apart from its more old-world neighbors along the coast. Monaco’s perfectly cleaned streets wind up the mountainside from the port, delivering gorgeous views from various points along the climb. (The famed Grand Prix takes place on these same streets every year in May.) Many Monaco residents speak English, so exploring, shopping and dining comes with added ease for English-speaking visitors. Though you can hardly turn a corner without being reminded of the extremely wealthy who frequent the city, head to the Prince ’s Palace to get a firsthand look at true royalty. The State Apartments are open for visitors March through October.

Monaco’s perfectly cleaned streets wind up the mountainside from the port, delivering gorgeous

views from various points along the climb.

Experience the passion of these remarkable athletes as they overcome incredible odds on the path to achieving their dreams. It’s must-see content for any lover of water. Made possible by Sunbrella®. Follow the story at sunbrella.com/uncharted.


Sunbrella® is a registered trademark of Glen Raven, Inc. SUNBRELLA.COM/MARINE

DESIGN + PERFORMANCE

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44 | Meridian Lines Magazine 44 | Meridian Lines Magazine

EVERYDAY ADVENTUREWritten by Elli Thompson Purtell

Meridian owners have a taste for adventure. Each outing promises new waters to explore, new sunset-viewing locales and infinite opportunities to make memories with those you love. The all-new 2017 GMC Acadia Denali is designed to not only expand your map of excursions, but also make the journey to get there as hassle-free as possible.

Several accommodations and technologies promote ease as you set out on your next trip to the marina, including Smart Slide Seats and the Hands-Free Power Liftgate. When your arms are full with overnight bags, a picnic basket or a beloved grandchild, your foot can open the rear liftgate, and a single hand can move the second-row seat to access the third row.

Once on the road, a comprehensive suite of Driver Alert and active safety technologies help prepare you for the unexpected. Side Blind Zone Alert uses radar sensors on both sides of the Acadia to detect other vehicles in the blind zone areas, alerting the driver with LED-lit symbols on the exterior mirrors. Available Surround Vision Camera technology displays a bird’s-eye view of the area encompassing your vehicle for a clearer picture of your surroundings.

For those who keep their Meridian at a distant port of call, Acadia Denali’s 3.6L V-6 engine is always up for a road trip. This available direct-injected engine produces 310 horsepower. Yet, despite Acadia’s aggressive power, Active Fuel Management helps conserve fuel1 by only generating the power you need at the moment. Drive straight through to your destination no matter the conditions, thanks to the Drive Mode Selector, which allows for real-time selection of a desired driving mode to adapt to terrain and weather. IntelliBeam Headlamps automatically switch between high beams and low beams in response to traffic conditions.

Memories onboard your Meridian are best shared with loved ones, and the Acadia Denali is eager to accommodate. Premium seating for up to seven people delivers comfort for all your family and friends. Keep your journey on track and your passengers satisfied with Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™ compatibility2, which displays select phone functions onto Acadia’s full-color screen, including music and directions.

No matter what your next Meridian cruise involves, the 2017 Acadia Denali is ready to help you get there with confidence and ease. Visit gmc.com to learn more.

1) EPA est 18 city/25 hwy. 2) Vehicle user interfaces are products of Apple® and Google® and their terms and privacy statements apply. Requires compatible smartphone and data plan rates apply.

GAME CHANGERThe new 2017 GMC Acadia Denali makes every trip to the marina—near or far—easier than ever.

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ARCHITECTURE FROM THE WATERWritten by Clover Smart

Several U.S. cities boast world-renowned architecture. View the masterpieces in three cities—one on each coast of the country, and one in the middle—while cruising in your own triumph of engineering: a Meridian yacht.

CHICAGOWhen summer arrives in Chicago, the city comes alive. A sunny day is the perfect time to hop onboard your Meridian and feast your eyes on the city’s many architectural gems. Depart from Burnham Harbor, where you’ll get a beautiful view of the Museum of Science and Industry, one of the few buildings still standing from the 1893 World’s Fair. Head north on Lake Michigan to see Navy Pier, along with its famous Ferris wheel. Pass through the Chicago Harbor Lock and make your way through the city’s downtown via the Chicago River. You’ll pass dozens of stunning skyscrapers both old and modern, including the Carbide and Carbon building, an art deco-style skyscraper built in 1920 with granite, terra cotta and gold leaf accents; the spellbinding Aqua tower, with its rippling wave-like appearance; and Marina City, twin silo-like towers that were the first buildings in the U.S. to be constructed with cranes. Finally, head south at the fork in the river to get a stunning view of the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower).

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SUCH GREAT HEIGHTS(Opposite from top) Navy Pier, Marina City and the Carbide and Carbon building. (This page) The IAC building, Brooklyn Bridge and One World Trade Center.


NEW YORKThe New York skyline comprises such an overwhelming array of architectural wonders and visual stimuli that it’s hard to pick out just a few sights from the water. The good news here is that, no matter which direction you head, you’ll never be disappointed. Begin on the Hudson River, where you can admire the beguiling IAC building, a Frank Gehry design that references the water with its sail-like towers. Head south, passing by One World Trade Center on your left. The gleaming tower, which was completed in July 2013, rises to a height of 1,776 feet, in honor of the year America declared its independence. Wrap around Lower Manhattan, which will afford you views of Battery Park on your left, a burst of green among the steel and concrete, and the Statue of Liberty to your right. Head up the East River, which is flanked by Manhattan and Brooklyn’s shorelines of skyscrapers. Cruise underneath the majestic Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges before reaching the United Nations headquarters building, built in 1952. Set off on your New York cruise on a summer afternoon to see the sun glinting off of the buildings, or opt for an evening cruise, where you’ll see the City That Never Sleeps gradually light up the night sky.



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COD• 41/3-lb portions of a very

large cod, filleted by local fishmonger

• 4 tbsp butter• Salt, to taste• Pickled mussels• 2 lb steamed mussels• 3-1/4 cup cider vinegar• 1 cup sugar• 2 cups Nobilo Icon

Sauvignon Blanc• 10 peppercorns• 2 tbsp salt• 4 stems tarragon• 6 bay leaves

CRAB AND FAVA SAUCE• 4 tbsp crab meat• 7-3/4 cups blanched fava

beans• 3 tbsp liquid from the

pickled mussels• 2 tbsp Nobilo Icon

Sauvignon Blanc• 1 tbsp chopped chives• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro• 1 mussel• 1 tbsp salted butter

FAVA PUREE• 2 cups blanched warm

favas• 1 cup hot heavy cream• 1 tsp salt• 1 tbsp unsalted butter• Garnish• Black mint• Dill• Bronze fennel• Fava flowers• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

M E T H O DPICKLED MUSSELSHeat ingredients until sugar and salt are dissolved. (You may adjust the sugar to your personal taste, adding more if you prefer a sweeter pickle.) Let cool to around 180°F/80°C. Add mussels and store, refrigerated, for at least 5 days.

CRAB AND FAVA SAUCEGently warm ingredients in a saucepan, adding butter last, and mix to incorporate without breaking the liquid and butter. When you remove from the heat, add the herbs as you are serving and mix thoroughly.

FAVA PUREEPlace all ingredients into a blender, except for the cream. Add cream slowly and purée on a very high speed to ensure the purée is as smooth and silky as possible.

CODMelt the butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Season fish with salt, then sauté, skin-side down, until golden and crisp. Flip over to finish the cooking.

PLATING AND GARNISHSmear the fava purée at the base of the plate. Place the fish on top of that and carefully place the stack of crab/favas next to the fish. Accent plate with the mussel and serve with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

For more great recipes and wine pairing ideas, visit the Entertaining section of nobilowines.com.

Nobilo Wines and New Zealand’s Matt Lambert, head chef and owner of acclaimed restaurant The Musket Room, have developed a recipe for Meridian owners that spotlights the sea’s bounty in multiple ways. Lam-bert recalls growing up in Auckland, fishing with his father and uncle: “There is an instant connection for me with cod, summer and fishing,” he says. “Same thing goes with pickled mussels! At almost every BBQ my parents had someone who would bring a tub of pickled

mussels. The way I brought the two together in this dish is very simple, and nearly the whole preparation can be made ahead of time.”

It practically goes without saying that this dish pairs beautifully with a glass of Nobilo Icon’s Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc—excellent for raising a toast to the boating season.

I N G R E D I E N T S Serves 4

SEAFOOD TRIPLE PLAY

SAN FRANCISCOThink San Francisco, and most likely an image of the Golden Gate Bridge comes to mind. Although you can view this infamous and awe-inspiring piece of architecture from many points on dry land, nothing quite compares to the view from the water. Next, head east on San Francisco Bay, passing notorious-prison-turned-National Historic Landmark, Alcatraz, and south underneath the San Francisco-Oakland Bridge. San Fran’s financial district consists of many glistening skyscrapers, but the Transamerica Pyramid stands out. Built in 1972, this lofty structure is the eighth tallest building in the country and the tallest in the city (but not for long—see below). If you find yourself in the area over the Fourth of July holiday, take your cruise at night to see the Pyramid’s “Crown Jewel,” a bright beacon that glows on America’s birthday, as well as during the Christmas season and on the anniversary of 9/11. Be sure to pencil in a sightseeing cruise for 2018, too. The 1.4 million square-foot, 61-story Salesforce Tower will then be complete, taking over the city’s tallest-building honors and adding new eye candy to the skyline.


Phot

o co

urte

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f Sea

Ray

For all the details, visit:

tracvision.com/meridian

Sophisticated technology for hundreds of channels of crystal-clear HDTV

Simple to install and easy to use

Ultra-fast satellite acquisition

High performance tracking even in heavy seas

Sleek IP-enabled TV-Hub delivers easy setup and operation

Friendly user interface from any mobile device or laptop

Isn’t it time to get a TracVision TV-series onboard?

1998–2015 SATELLITE TV PRODUCT AWARD

©2016 KVH Industries, Inc. KVH, TracVision, and the unique light-colored dome with dark contrasting baseplate are registered trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.

*DISH Network or DIRECTV receiver sent separately; requires pre-activation of service. See www.kvh.com/tvreceiver for details.

My KVH TracVision has worked nonstop for 15 years

now and I’ve never done a thing to it. And it’s used

every day. It’s probably the only thing on the boat that’s

worked without stopping.

“

”— Capt. Ken Caine Owner, M/V Gorgeous Moose, 48-foot Sea Ray

FREE DISH Network® or DIRECTV®

receiver included with every model!*

SCAN QR CODE

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At NBOA Marine Insurance, we’re here to make your Meridian Yacht experience as carefree and enjoyable as possible. Enjoy peace of mind knowing you have the nation’s best team of marine insurance

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MARINE INSURANCE

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