The Rodent Brings Us Luck
Punxsutawney Phil may be calling for six more weeks of winter, but based on what we sailed this weekend and the solid, thick ice holding beneith the snow on our larger lakes, we appear to have considerably more opportunity than the shadow seeing rodent suggests.
Conversations and conjecture ran high on last Thursday’s call. We all acknowledged that many of our colder lakes had too much snow, so attention shifted to smaller waters that may have frozen after with the recent cold snap and missed the snow. Another possibility was snow that had settled, wetted out, and refrozen into white ice. The third option were the brackish coastal bays and estuaries, Red Bank and Oceanport delivered in New Jersey, with Orient Point and other Long Island locations also seeing good sailing.
The prize of the weekend, miles and miles of smooth black ice. Members of the Chickawaukieice boat Club (iceboat.me) have been patiently watching Sebago for a while and the past several days were doing what ever was in their earthly or otherwise powers to ward off a fresh batch of snow. Their patience and many others were rewarded this Sunday with what was described as epic black ice. I will leave further elaboration to those that make it up to Sebabo on Sunday and those that are there as I pen this post.
My choices for Saturday were pretty much between Long Island and the Jersey Shore. Since I had to be Nassau County Saturday morning traveling out to the end of the North Fork was an easy choice. There were a good twenty or so boats on the ice. Some DNs, J14s and smaller skeeters as well as a number of Lockley Skimmers and one infamous South Bay Scooter. The bays of Long Island are there home and most every ice boater I know has some odd attraction to a craft that doesn’t have active steering capabilities. Unfortunately, the wind didn’t come in all that strong so there was more catching up with Long Island friends then sailing but that’s iceboating sometimes.
The NEIYA DN North American Regatta contingent are all safe back east and ready do for the next regatta. Congratulations to T on winning the newly minted national Championship and very strong showing in the NAs with a fifth a mere seven points out of first. Jeff Roseberry finished with a 10th place in the NA Gold Fleet. In the NA Silvers Paul Chamberland took a third place. Eben Whitcomb clawed his way to 12th after sitting out race 2 and 3 with some boat damage and taking a fourth in the Nationals. In Bronze Bob Haag pulled off a tenth place with consistent finishes throughout the regatta. Stay tuned we may get some first hand accounts from those who competed on Green Lake. NA Results / Nationals Results
Looking ahead we have a growing number of opportunities across the region. We are running right into a feast from our state of white famine just a week or so ago. To name a few Sebago, NJ shore, Long Pond in Harwich MA, Some of the bays on eastern Long Island including a high likelihood of sailing the Great South Bay a prize notch in any iceboaters belt. Also in the line up is Lake Champlain again and the prospect of Hudson ice.
Plenty of activities await us including some vast cruising and we will be looking to get the Don “Doc” Fellows race completed soon. The Doc Fellows is the NEIYA’s longest running regatta originating in 1975. Keep your eyes open and report in any findings you have. Did you drive by a body of water that needs further checking? Let us know.
Think Ice and encourage the winds to scrub our ice clean,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Post Storm Options
We have been left with a bit of a White Mess out there. If anyone needed a reminder, look out the window and if that’s not convincing the lingering shoveling pains will. The cold has definitely settled in, and with it some current and other opportunities coming into focus.
The bitter temperatures have locked up some areas we have not seen frozen in quite a while, including sections of the Hudson River and parts of the New Jersey shore.
People are out scouting a handful of potential opportunities, With more information expected later today or tomorrow. These include Ninigret Pond in Rhode Island and Long Pond in Harwich, Massachusetts. This is just what I know but take a look around the current cold may have helped in other locations. Please these areas are being looked at and conditions are not confirmed and should be considered not sailable till scouting is complete.
At the moment, confirmed options include Red Bank, New Jersey, and Hallock’s Bay on the North Fork of eastern Long Island. Sabago will be attempted by people in Maine check out iceboat.me for details.
Don’t forget to check in on the DN NA activities that will be wrapping up today and rolling into the newly minted US Nationals regatta. https://www.idniyra.org/2026-north-american-championship/
Hang on there is a lot of winter and a great deal of ice beneath the snow waiting to poke free. More updates as reports come in.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
And They’re (finally) Off…
WHOOP WHOOP! The bullhorn has sounded, the first day skippers meeting is in the books, and it is time to race.
NEIYA is well represented with nine racers on the line. For those who keep an eye on the numbers, that is 16 percent of the 56 boats listed on the scratch sheet. A strong showing.
It has not been an easy path for our intrepid nine. They battled the same conditions many of us just endured. Snow, snow, snow, and low, low, low temperatures. When conditions deteriorated at Lake Wawasee in Syracuse, Indiana, the entire event regrouped and reconvened roughly 500 miles north and west at Green Lake, Wisconsin.
Clang your cowbells and cheer loudly for James Thieler, Eben Whitcomb, Paul Chamberland, Jeff Roseberry, David Silsby, Edward Demarest, Robert Haag, and our Long Island friends and members Peter Truesdel and Scott Valentine as racing continues over the next few days.
For the latest reports straight from the ice, look for updates from Deb Whitehorse on the idniyra.org website.
Side note. Deb Whitehorse and I were recently interviewed by Francesca Krempa for an Afar.com travel article aimed at helping cold region travelers find a way to experience iceboating. Click for the article What is iceboating and where to try it. As we all know too well, it is not that simple. Conditions dictate everything. My best advice to would be iceboaters is captured perfectly in the final sentence of Francesca Krempa’s Afar article.
“Find us,” says Stanton. “We’ll take you out. And if it doesn’t hook you, you still get to check ice sailing off your bucket list.”
Reach out to us by email, ask to join our weekly call, and come on out and play.
We know we are surrounded by lakes covered with snow but there is pre-thaw hope. To the North Bill Buchholz and the Maine crew have been closely monitoring conditions on Sebago. Focus your attention to iceboat.me for updates. Maybe, just maybe, we will see sailing on the second largest and famously elusive lake in Maine this season.
Think Ice and Sail Fast,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
2026 New England Championship Results
Long before the New England Regatta concluded yesterday, and well before the first skipper’s meeting, weeks of scouting, sailing, and securing local access were already underway. Race Committee Chairman Paul Chamberland and Jeff Roseberry put in the groundwork that made this regatta possible.
With the DN North Americans approaching, it was important to grab this opportunity. As most of you know, an ice opportunity not taken is often a missed regatta or days cruise. Paul was clear in his recommendation. Sandbar State Park had the best ice, and with his extensive scouting behind it, the decision was easy. And as we now know most of the rest of New England was covered in white this weekend.
The ice delivered. Conditions were generally smooth, though there was a light snow layer from early Saturday’s snows. It was not deep and inserts ruled the day. Winds cooperated generally out of the south up and down and always enough to move.
Special thanks again to Paul Chamberland, who pulled off an excellent regatta. In his own words:
“At times I was overwhelmed by all the details needed to pull off a successful regatta. There were no on-ice incidents other than a broken headstay tang. A fantastic time was had by all.”
Racing was competitive and clean. Congratulations to our friends to the north, with John Curtis taking commanding first and Jacek Marzenski second. Jeff Roseberry finished third, followed by Paul Chamberland in fourth. Ed Demerest rounded out the top five, holding on despite the only incident of the regatta, a broken headstay tang that resulted in a dropped rig. On a personal note I was able to sort out a number of issues and test them (on ice) in real time.
As always, no regatta happens without volunteers. Thanks to the Race Committee team, and to Nina Fleming, who transformed handwritten results into the official standings. Whether on wheels or blades Nina is our go to RC person.
Sandbar was not exclusively about DNs. Steve Lamb and Peter Coward arrived with their boats to take advantage of the expansive ice. Given the snow that covered much of New England, they made the right call and enjoyed big ice and miles of speed while the DNs turned laps. Next time we call big ice consider spending an extra hour or so of travel time. It is well worth the drive time.
Side note and a testament to the NEIYA’s history, we have outgrown NEIYA’s Grand New England Championship trophy. We have run out of room on the Trophy. To continue the 56-year tradition, Jeff Roseberry has volunteered to craft additional panels to carry future winners.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Long Weekend’s Fun Has Just Begun (1-16-26)
We had a record number of people on our call last night, and we know some participants experienced difficulties. I’d like to blame Verizon, but regardless, we’re looking into what went wrong.
Ice reports poured in from Northern Lake Champlain, Sunapee, and Quaboag, all of which are being sailed right now. Lake Wentworth will be surveyed, with more details coming in a separate post. Ice-in was declared on January 15 on one of New England’s biggest iceboating prizes, Lake Winnipesaukee, and scouting is already underway.
Farther north, sailors are out today on Great Pond in Belgrade, Maine. Check the Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club website, iceboat.me, for details.
There’s also word that Bantam Lake in Connecticut may be ready, with people checking it out today.
As previously reported, the New England Championships will be held on Lake Champlain out of Sandbar State Park in Vermont. Racing is open to everyone, from seasoned ranked racers to more casual sailors and those just getting started. There will be a special award for the best boat in the Vintage class. Separate starts will be given to any class that gets three boats to the line. Any takers from the Whiz class?
We could also use some race committee help. No experience is required, just a desire to have the best view of the racing. Reach out to me if you’re interested.
There is plenty of ice for both racers and cruisers, so come on up and sail.
Think Ice,
John
DN 5023
john@neiya.org
Looking @ The Long Weekend Ahead
Sunapee 1-12-26 By Kate Marone
As reported earlier there has been some great sailing to be had across New England. From Champlain, to Sunapee, Wentworth and Quaboag as well as others. As we know there is a front coming through and as usual remain flexible and adapt.
Race Chair Paul Chamberland is currently assessing locations to hold our New England Championship Regatta. Top of the list Sandbar area Lake Champlain VT. We can always use more intel so chime in please.
OFFICIAL Regatta info will be posted here neiya.org. We expect to make the regatta call by tomorrow night.
To aid in race coordination we will open our call with a regatta segment during our usual Thursday 6:30 PM call. Call is open to all current NEIYA members. Membership includes most racing fees. Don’t remember the phone number drop me an email today or early tomorrow. Additional regatta info to follow.
This is looking like a really great ice weekend. See you out there whether racing or cruising.
Think Ice,
John
Ice Welcoming Us Back
With the warm weather and rain pretty much behind us there are a few places ready to go tomorrow and early in the week.
We have reports from Quaboag in MA, Sunapee in NH and Sandbar State Park on VT’s Champlain.
As always but especially with fluctuating conditions check be careful there are always hazards. Sail heads up and talk to those who are familiar with the area.
From Quaboag
Just got back from Quaboag, 10 inches of ice in front of the ramp,the surface looks consistent across the pond. Temp is 37 at 4:00.
It’s going to be 32: at 11 and 24 in the morning.
I will be setting up around 10 am. It’s there if you want to sail.
Bob S
From Sunapee
The ice on Sunapee was wet today with pools of water on the ice. Lots of ice fisherman out, so the thickness and strength are not an issue. It is at freezing now and will be sub freezing all night. Wind tomorrow forecast for 13 to 11 mph from 11am to 3 pm. The ice may level significantly (I hope) and puddles freeze overnight.
I plan to be at the state beach at 11 AM (with my boat) to check it out. I would say there is a good chance for good sailing.
Mark
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Year’s End Sail
Nothing like ringing in the new Year with speed. Raw wind harvested power.
It is hard enough to explain to our sailing brethren. And nearly impossible for those who have never set foot on a frozen pond or lake.
Recap from Bob to follow.
11 sailors showed up today, the ice was very good with a few snowmobile marks,the wind was 15 to 20 with some gusts,everyone handled well.
3 boats are still set up for the morning sail.Snow tonight 1 inch plus .
Winds about 15mph in the morning, going to 25 to 35 by 1pm,looks like a short fast sail.
Happy New Year
Bob S
Paul Chamberland, Jeff Roseberry,and other DNers are up in Montreal sparring with our friends in Canada. Give em hell boys. Only a couple weeks till the NAs. If you are considering going be sure to reach out to race veterans.
As we are ready ringing in the new year we all look forward to more ice time.
See you on the ice next week
Think Ice
John
John@neiya.org
Last Day of 2025 Sailing Options
Quaboag 12/30 Bob S
Conditions are shaping up all over the place. Based on Bob’s report below people will be gathering at Quaboag today. In New Hampshire Massasecum seems the the best option. Conditions below. Get out for the last sail of the year.
Further reports to come in the new year.
Bil Buchholz will be sailing Damariscotta Lake with I’m sure a good crowd. Check out https://iceboat.me/2025/12/30/sailing-on-tomorrow/ for details.
Massasecum is also rough, but sailable. A lot of crud from partially melted and refrozen snow and slush / tire tracks from ATVs. Possibly some remnants of smoother ice further out. Ice is 9-12 inches thick per fishermen.
Wind tomorrow in Bradford forecast at 8-10 w temps mid 20s.
Based on the thickness / safety factor and general surface character, I think Massasecum is a better bet for tomorrow.
12/30/25
6 inches of grey ice, except for a few snowmobile tracks it’s a grade 8+.
Temp was 21: at 10 am no holes spotted.Wind was 21 with gust to 32.
Tomorrow mid 20s wind 10 to 15 with some gust.
Bob S
Looking forward to sailing with you all in the new year. We will have our weekly call tomorrow night.
Think Ice
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Quaboag Status
Thanks to Bob S. For keeping a watchful eye on the Q. May the snow scrub off soon.
Just got back from Quaboag, the ice on the ramp was open, need a plank to get on.
Walked on the shore to the right of the parking lot, and there is 5 inches.
Pine street has 4.75 inches, that is the east side of the lake, there is open water near the south shore.
Stone road looks good, that is the west side of the pond, the point across from the far south cove has some open water.
Bob S
Temp 19 .00
BAD NEWS snow over night.
Think Ice and melt snow
John
John@neiya.org
Merry Christmas To The Ice Tribe
Those in our northern reaches had a white Christmas. Not exactly what we asked Santa for but we ice boaters are optimistic and patient.
So keep the faith. The white stuff will blow off and evaporate.
For those faithful few that dialed in to our weekly call sorry for not officially canceling the call. Your family
I can report there are record high temperatures here but ice and cachasa in our glasses.
We will reconvene next Thursday at 6:30 pm. I know we are all eager to return to the ice especially DNers looking for some tune up time before the NAs at the end of January.
Think Ice,
John@neiya.org
Sailing on Quaboag today 12/17
Reports in from Quaboag today. Get it while it’s good. Bob S has put out the welcome mat for tomorrow.
Nine sailers showed up Wednesday to sail Quaboag, great wind all day,the snow was soft and wet, no problem sailing through it.
Got on the ice at 9;00 and sailed till 3;00, i’ll sleep good tonight.
Light winds in the morning,but there five boats set up hoping to sail..
Bob S
Lake Massesecum in NH was scouted today by several people more as it develops.
Lake Massesecum – Kate Marone
The above and others are sure to be discussed tomorrow night.
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Quaboag Comes Through Monday 12/15
This In from Bob S. Along with an invite to sail with small assembled group.
Two boats sailed Quaboag today with 5 inches of ice with 1 inch of snow.
No holes were spotted, a few wet spots over the cracks that were crossed with no problems.
Big winds today, some of the snow was blown away and we have 6 inch drifts in places.Two boats are set up to sail in the morning.
Bob S
Also check out Wentworth in NH. An intrepid few sailed Wentworth in high winds. The lake is ready for more dun
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Give Quaboag Some Time
People have been asking about Quaboag. Bob S did check yesterday and it is not ready.
Needs a few days of cold and let’s hope the snow stays away from a great looking base surface.
Think Ice
John
John@neiya.org
Good Prospecting @ Lake Wentworth, NH
We had a strong turnout for last night’s weekly conference call, with what appears to be a record 20 percent of members dialing in. While a ready to sail call could not be placed last night, we do have several meaningful updates to share.
The call-in number remains unchanged from last year. We did experience a number of email notice bounces due to outdated or incorrect addresses, so if you believe you are current on dues but did not receive notice, please email me so we can make the necessary corrections. BTW the notice email came directly from john@neiya.org as the sender check your spam box.
Lake Wentworth is receiving high marks as a developing prospect and is expected to be sailed tomorrow. This is an emerging opportunity without full scouting reports, and hazards have not yet been identified. Caution is strongly advised. The best, though somewhat limited, access is via Wentworth State Park off NH Route 109. The parking lot cannot accommodate trailers, so please plan alternative arrangements.
A scouting party accessed Farrar Pond in Lincoln, MA earlier today. While small, it presents a good early-season opportunity.
Bob S. is currently scouting the always reliable Quaboag Pond and will report back later today. Additional locations in New Hampshire are also being scouted, with updates to follow.
Please be careful and do not let early season enthusiasm lead you into an unsafe situation. NEVER SAIL ALONE, and treat all ice with extreme caution until you have personally confirmed conditions. Do not rely on hearsay. Upon arriving at a location seek firsthand reports from those who have actually been on the ice and are aware of any known issues.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Nearly Show Time
It seems the crews who traveled west for the Great Western Challenge have also helped usher the cold back our way. Reports are now coming in from Maine and New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. Skating and ice sailing have been reported in Maine by Bill Buchholz (iceboat.me), and Randy Rice has already put blades on the ice, sailing in light air on Pemi (Gewasset) Lake. We also have reports from Bob S. that Quaboag in Brookfiled, MA has set up and will only get thicker with the cold weather. Thanks to all the early scouters who keep watchful eyes on our ice.
Additional early reports indicate ice beginning to set up in several bays and lakes around the Winnipesaukee region. All reports are in the process of being confirmed, and with the predicted low temperatures, confirmations are expected soon in the next few days.
More information is coming on our two recent events. Many thanks to Stephen Lamb for hosting us at his shop in Canton, MA, and to Charlie Silfvenius at the Wooden Boat Museum. This has been a busy sales season, and time has gotten away from me, but full recaps are coming shortly.
Looking ahead, we will be restarting our weekly calls on Thursdays at 6:30 pm. The first call will focus on early-season ice conditions. Members in good standing will receive an email tomorrow with login information.
As always, you can reach me directly at john@neiya.org.
Think early ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Thanksgiving Greetings from the NEIYA
Thanksgiving cheer to all who chase the ice and the wind, and to the families, friends, and shore crews who make it possible.
As we gather with good food and good company, we’re looking ahead as well:
winter is coming, runners are sharpened, gear is sorted out, and weather maps are getting a more attention. It will not be long for most of us.
Congratulations to Race Chair Paul Chamberland for once again claiming the first sailed ice award. Blades on the ice and running. November 22, 2023 Owlseye Lake, St. Paul, Alberta. Way to go Paul.
With luck, we will sail together before the new year, mixing it up across New England, the Northeast, and the Midwest. Perhaps even a Winni Hardway if the season falls into place.
Until then stay well, enjoy the day, and keep thinking cold and ice.
See you at Steve Lamb’s Shop this Saturday 11/29 10:00am. Remember if you need help sorting out your boat bring it on down and let our panel of the seasoned give it a once over. All are welcome, especially those who have always wanted to get out and sail the ice. Boat or not come out Saturday. Drop me a note if there are any questions.
For details, visit the announcement here: 🔗 https://neiya.org/2025/11/21/the-off-ice-lamb-tune-up-is-on-saturday-11-29-25/
Think Ice,
John
john@neiya.org
The Off-Ice Lamb Tune-Up is On Saturday 11/29/25
Some Images from 2022
Thanks to Steve Lamb’s decades of support for the NEIYA and the sport of iceboating, we are once again able to hold our Off-Ice Tune-Up.
Steve and Linda are graciously opening the doors of the Arthur C. Lamb shop to us again for this year’s Off-Ice Tune-Up, scheduled for Saturday, November 29th. Yes, Thanksgiving weekend!
Take a break from the post-holiday routine and stop by. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone.
If you have any interest in iceboating this is the place to be on the 29th. The Iceboating welcome mat is out. Come on down.
Date: Saturday, November 29th
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location: Arthur C. Lamb Company Refreshments: Served continuously throughout the day
Google Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/3zuJS2G2Nm3BwLYs5
We have a full schedule of events but want to focus on the new iceboaters. Especially those that are struggling to figure it all out and get themselves and their boats on the ice for the first time. Calling all Newbies here is your chance to have even the questions you didn’t know to ask answered. Bring your boats down to be surveyed by a collective of maybe 1000 years of iceboating experience.
We will have ongoing Iceboat educational topics backed by the experts amongst us. Including but not limited to.
- Rigging your new boat
- Right of Way Rules
- Runner choke alignment techniques
- Runner Care
- Ice checking Round Table Discussion
The season is upon us take advantage of this opportunity. Pull your old boat out of the cellar, barn, attic or where ever and bring it down. This is the year to follow your dream and hit the ice.
Think Ice,
John Stanton
DN5023
john@neiya.org
P.S. Any questions just reach out to me.
Tomorrow’s the Day – Sat Oct 25th NEIYA Swap Meet, Lunch & Annual Meeting
We are less than a day away from this year’s New England Ice Yacht Association’s Annual Swap Meet, Lunch and Meeting 10:00 AM Saturday, October 25. That’s tomorrow, people!
NEIYA Swap Meet, Lunch & Meeting Information:
When: Saturday, October 25th, 10:00am (Vendors set up early so you might want to come before 10am)
Where: Thompson Speedway Golf Course, 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/DbGpTekm4ZLNnV8n7
We are excited to welcome guest speaker Robert Wills, President of the Hudson River Ice Yacht Preservation Trust and Past Commodore of the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club. A longtime Hudson River iceboater, Bob is the proud custodian of four historic ice yachts, including Kriss, commissioned by John Aspinwall Roosevelt in 1898. An active iceboater since 1989, Bob continues to care for his fleet of historic yachts, lecturing widely on the history of icesailing throughout the Hudson Valley and now expanding into New England to join us.
Also joining us on the historic front is our own Frank Morris, Vice Chairman of Lowell’s Boat Shop in Amesbury, MA. Lowell’s is best known as the birthplace of the classic New England Dory, still handcrafted today using traditional methods. The shop remains a living legend, where craftsmanship and maritime heritage endure. “T” and I gave an iceboat talk and onshore demo to an eager crowd at Lowell’s shop last fall. And believe we converted a couple of people to hard water. If you have a chance, visit the Lowell Boat Shop and take a step back in time.
Sometimes we forget how deeply our sport’s nautical heritage runs. Ice yachting shares a common lineage and spirit of the grand classic yachts that engaged in fierce competition dating back to the 1800s. Our heritage is written in wood grain, and the calloused hands that shaped our soft and hard water yachts.
Upon Arrival, be sure to check in with our treasurer, Ed Demerest. Even if you have paid online, please check in with Ed to be sure your contact info is current. Ed would appreciate it if you paid your dues and lunch online, see links below. And not you do not have to have a PayPal account to transact with a credit card.
Please Pay Your Dues
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2025-26 Membership | $30 |
 |
| 2025-26 Membership + Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2025-26 Membership + 2X Lunch | $60 |
|
| 2025 Lunch | $15 |
|
| Mail in Form We prefer you pay online – Thanks | ||
This is your go-to Northeast event for all things ice sailing and Ice, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro. From masts to sails, planks to runners, gear up and go faster with us! Don’t miss out, be part of the vibrant NEIYA community. If you live outside the Northeast, it’s a great excuse for a road trip. Shout out to the boys and girls in NJ, the Hudson Valley, and the Adirondack regions, as well as those to the west of us. There is a prize for the person traveling the farthest.
Now is a perfect time to pay your 2025-26 dues and reserve your seat at our annual Luncheon and Meeting. All are welcome to attend.
Do not wait till after the swap meet to begin preparing for the season. It’s been a long summer, and if you have not already shifted to thinking about iceboating, now is the time. Drag your gear out, set it up in the driveway, and be sure you have everything. Have anything extra in storage? Now is the perfect time to free up some storage. Put it up in the classified section. Remember, your older equipment may be far better than what someone else has now.
Stay tuned for the beginning of our weekly ice calls starting up in a few weeks. Never too early to talk ice boating in front of a like-minded crowd.
Till then, Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. Drop me a note if you have any questions, and if you have always wanted to try iceboating, this is the place to start.
Don’t Miss the NEIYA Annual Swap Meet! Saturday October 25th
The Ice Is Calling…
Members, guests, and anyone with even a spark of interest in iceboating: the green flag is waving!
We’re a GO for Saturday, October 25th. The New England Ice Yacht Association kicks off the season with our annual Swap Meet, Lunch, and Meeting at the Thompson Speedway Golf Course in Thompson, CT.
This isn’t just another Saturday, it’s the launch of the iceboating season in the northeast. A full day of boats, equipment, stories, laughs, and anticipation for the first ice (hopefully BLACK) of the season.
And yes, there’s a prize for whoever travels the farthest to join us. So come on up (or down, or over) from New Jersey, the Hudson Valley, the Adirondacks, or beyond.
The Event
When: Saturday, October 25th, 10:00 a.m. (Vendors set up early, so plan to arrive ahead of the crowd!)
Where: Thompson Speedway Golf Course, 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277
https://goo.gl/maps/DbGpTekm4ZLNnV8n7
Reconnect with old friends, meet new sailors, and talk all things ice. From tuning tips to trip planning. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran, just starting, or just ice-curious, this is the place to kick off your first or next season.
Special Guests
This year we have some special guests from the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club (HRIYC) and the Hudson River Ice Yacht Preservation Trust (HRIYPT) . Many of us have seen the Hudson stern steering crafts including the Jack Frost and others over the years and the impression never wanes. My love for the classic ice yachts was solidified when I sailed near the Jack Frost and Rocket on the Hudson back in 2014. My DN was not happy with the hummocks but the pair of classics plowed smoothly through without a noticable drop in speed. Never under estimate the raw power of momentum.
Bob Wills from the HRIYC and HRIYPT will talk about their unique iceboating mission, sailing vintage iceboats, and maybe share some bronze casting techniques.
Check In and Catch Up
When you arrive, check in with Secretary Karen Binder DN5630 to make sure your contact info is current. We want every sailor in the loop when it’s time to sail.
Swap, Shop & Sell
Where vintage meets innovation and everyone leaves inspired, . Looking for parts? Need a new plank, mast, or sail? Or maybe you’ve got gear that needs a new home. Bring it!
Lunch & Annual Meeting
After the swapping winds down, stay for our annual lunch and meeting, a great chance to catch up, make plans, and share your passion with fellow sailors. Bob Wills will talk as well as racing and cruising reports and other fun discussions.
All are welcome! Please pay upfront for lunch or let us know you are coming.
Please pay online.
Now’s the time to pay for lunch, renew your membership and secure your lunch seat.
Please Pay Your Dues
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2025-26 Membership | $30 |
|
| 2025-26 Membership + Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2025-26 Membership + 2X Lunch | $60 |
|
| 2025 Lunch | $15 |
|
| Mail in Form We prefer you pay online – Thanks | ||
Prep for the Season
Don’t wait until the lakes freeze, get ready now.
Pull your gear out of storage, set it up, check every bolt and blade, and see what’s missing. If you’ve got extras, post them on our Classifieds (we’re cleaning out old listings this week, so let us know what’s still available). What you’re done with might be exactly what another sailor needs to get started.
Stay Tuned and Tune up
We will have a couple additional off ice gatherings this year. If we get a good pre Christmas freeze we will gather on the ice. It’s never too early to talk conditions, stories, and strategy with a like-minded crowd.
Reach out if you have any questions.
THINK ICE!
John Stanton
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. Post your items in the classified section and let people know you will be brining the item(s) to the swap meet.
Eight Bells – Paul Gervais
It is with profound sadness that we mark the passing of our dear friend and fellow iceboater, Paul Gervais, who left us on September 11, 2025. His passing leaves an eternal Void over Champlain.
For over three decades, Paul was a steadfast presence on Lake Champlain. He was the trusted voice for ice conditions, covering the lake with unmatched dedication and care. Even after shifting his winter pursuits to skiing, Paul remained our go-to source for Champlain ice. His reports, shaped by a lifetime of knowledge, were relied upon with confidence. If Paul said the ice conditions were good, we knew it was at least as good as he reported. Along with the usual caveat of hazards.
Many of us owe countless days of sailing on Champlain to Paul’s vigilance. From Inner and Outer Mallets to Burlington, Shelburne Bay, south of the bridge, and elsewhere. His keen eye and tireless devotion opened the way for racing and cruising that might otherwise never have been possible.
I will always remember, some time in the early or mid 90’s, venturing across the pressure ridge between Inner and Outer Mallets Bay to race, the promise of vast, black ice opened up before me. It was my first true taste of big ice, a gift made possible by Paul’s watchful presence.
Paul’s spirit will live on in every stretch of black ice, and in every breeze that carries us across Champlain with speed. May he now find eternal joy carving perfect lines through mogul-packed slopes and sailing forever fast across endless black ice.
A Celebration of Paul’s Life will be held on Saturday, September 27 at 3:00 PM
at Champlain Marina, 982 W Lakeshore Dr, Colchester, VT (Mallets Bay).
Friends are warmly invited to gather, honor Paul, and share stories of a life so richly lived.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. Please share your memories of Paul in the comments section and send any pictures you have to me.
Green, Green, Green – Sat Oct 25th NEIYA Swap Meet, Lunch & Annual Meeting Is A Go
Members, Guests, and anyone with an interest in Iceboating or getting onto the ice:
The green flag is waving and we are a go on Saturday, October, 25th for the New England Ice Yacht Association’s annual Swap Meet, Lunch, and annual meeting. We will be once again returning to The Golf Course area at the Thompson Speedway in Thompson, CT.
Join us at NEIYA’s annual event—an ice enthusiast’s dream! Reconnect with old friends, plan future adventures, and revel in the warmth of camaraderie, sans helmets and goggles.
Upon Arrival be sure to check in with our with Secretary Karen Binder. We want to be sure all your contact info is current.
This is your go-to Northeast event for all things ice sailing, and Ice, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro. From masts to sails, planks to runners, gear up and go faster with us! Don’t miss out—be part of the vibrant NEIYA community. If you live outside the Northeast its a great excuse for a road trip. Shout out to the boys and girls in NJ, the Hudson Valley, and Adirondacks regions as well as those a to the west of us. There is a prize for the person traveling the furthest.
NEIYA Swap Meet, Lunch & Meeting Information:
When: Saturday, October 25th, 10:00am (Vendors set up early so you might want to come before 10am)
Where: Thompson Speedway Golf Course, 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277
https://goo.gl/maps/DbGpTekm4ZLNnV8n7
Now is a perfect time to pay your 2025-26 dues and reserve your seat at our annual Luncheon and Meeting. All are welcome to attend.
Please Pay Your Dues
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2025-26 Membership | $30 |
|
| 2025-26 Membership + Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2025-26 Membership + 2X Lunch | $60 |
|
| 2025 Lunch | $15 |
|
| Mail in Form We prefer you pay online – Thanks | ||
Do not wait till after the swap met to begin preparing for the season. It’s been a long summer and if you have not already shifted to thinking about iceboating, now is the time. Drag your gear out set it up in the driveway and be sure you have everything. Have anything extra in storage? Now is the perfect time to free up some storage. Put it up on the classified section. Remember your older equipment may be far better than what someone else has now.
Stay tuned for the beginning of our weekly ice calls starting up in a few weeks. Never too early to talk ice boating in front of a like minded crowd.
Till then Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. The Classified section is being worked on at the moment and any old ads from last season will be purged. If you still have the item(s) for sale let me know so we can keep them up.
Losing Day Light – Winter is Coming
Summer is in full swing, yet winter is coming. By August 31 we’ll have lost an hour of daylight and the march towards winter accelerates.
The estate auction of fellow ice boater John Eastman features his Meade and Gambit (built by Lloyd Roberts), plus other nautical and aviation treasures:
Full Auction: https://www.proxibid.com/EstateBid-Auction/Estate-Auction-for-Renowned-Hobbyist-John-Eastman/event-catalog/282017
Meade: https://www.proxibid.com/Meade-E-Skeeter-Iceboat-Ice-Racer/lotInformation/94895594
Gambit: https://www.proxibid.com/Gambit-1-Iceboat-designed-and-built-by-Lloyd-Roberts/lotInformation/94895595
My personal favorite, a Vintage Standard Gauge Fairmount Motorcar for exploring the 100,000+ miles of abandoned railroad track throughout the country. No doubt something John was planning but ran out of time.
https://www.proxibid.com/Vintage-Standard-Gauge-Fairmount-Motorcar-Railway-Car-with-Trailer/lotInformation/94071305
Read Jory Squib’s tribute to John on the Chickawaukie Ice Boat Site: https://iceboat.me/2024/11/11/in-memoriam/
Time to get ready for ice season. Our annual swap meet will again be at Thompson Motor Speedway, Thompson, CT. Details coming soon.
Think Ice,
John
john@neiya.org
DN5023
Our Season Continues @ Moosehead
This time of year, there’s a familiar hesitation to put fingers to the keyboard. Not writing about the inevitable finale to another iceboating season somehow delays it for another few days. The proverbial fat lady may be waiting in the wings, but she hasn’t sung just yet.
Moosehead Lake continues to defy the odds, offering late-season sailing when other venues have long since surrendered to spring. Just two weeks ago, the lake delivered with strong winds that kept some sailors on the sidelines, but for those who ventured out, it was some of the most exhilarating iceboating of the year. If you have not read the reports check out the CIBC’s site iceboat.me. But be prepared to kick yourself for not taking the drive. The high winds kept myself and others in the pit, but we tried.
The latest Moose chapter unfolded yesterday as Jeff Roseberry and Paul Chamberland set out for Moosehead in the pre-dawn hours, arriving yesterday morning with cautious optimism. Armed with a bit of intel but lacking any recent firsthand reports. No iceboaters had been on Moosehead for two weeks so they approached with measured hope. Their instincts proved correct. Moosehead was sailable! Jeff noted, the lake had finnaly melted down to reveal her original seasons Black Ice. The ice was bordered by a maze of frozen hummocks that formed a makeshift slalom course, that was as challenging as it was thrilling. The ice remained hard throughout the day.
Way to go Jeff and Paul for adding yet another highlight to your log of firsts, lasts and milestones and spreading ice envy across the ice tribe.
What’s next? Do we have another chance at Moosehead or any ice adventures further north in Quebec? Let’s see how the week goes and touch base on Thursday or before. Keep hope alive and let’s squeeze in another day on the ice before we sail on soft water.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
New England Ice Yacht Association 