Quaboag Follow up
6 boats sailed today winds were 15 to 20. The surface was partial snow cover with lots of drifts ..
We needed the wind to keep moving and bust through the drifts, it was a wild ride all day, at the end of the day one boat lost a plank.
Tomorrow liter wind, it will test our skills. Two boats stayed on the ice. be there after 9.00
Bob S.
Breezy Day On Quaboag – 1/15/25
Brian Langley reports in after a lively day on Quaboag. Thanks to Bob S. For keeping a watchful eye on the area lakes.
8 boats on Quabog today, lots of snow drifts that are getting styrofoam like. Heavy winds all day. 15-20 with gusts! You would go 50 plus to 5 mph when you blew through them. Scare the crap out of you.
We had some amazing scare runs for accomplished racers and seasoned cruisers alike.
Brian
Looking to the weekend we have lots of choices and a potential regatta. As you know there is a bit of warmer weather and precipitation coming across the region so be careful. Conditions will change. More insight tomorrow night on 6:30pm call
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Quaboag Is A Go For Tomorrow 1/15/25
I Checked Quaboag today 6 inches of old black ice and 3 inches of new snow ice no holes were seen.
They captured the evil ice dragon and have it penned in so we should be good for the rest of the winter.
Stopped by Webster Lake some places have 5 inches and others only 2 inches, looks like there may be access to all three ponds
because the narrows are frozen, may be ready for the weekend if everything comes together, fat chance, but i will try to keep an eye on it.
I will be sailing Quaboag in the morning with a few others. Wind around 15.I will be there about 10 125 Quaboag St, Brookfield, MA 01506
Bob S
Sunapee 1/11 Recap
After the snow the wind picked up enough to get some sailing I’m. I counted 10 boats some still out getting in a few more runs. Some left over from Friday and some new people. Plenty of room and generally 4+ inches. Before heading out, do check with locals in the pits before venturing out.
Most will be coming back tomorrow Sunday along with a few others. As previously reported T will be setting up marks and there will be scratch racing.
John Bamman reports in from yesterday and a reminder that we owe a lot to our ice checkers. We would never get out on the ice without them.
A combination of moderating winds from those of the last few days, more comfortable temperatures and expanses of near perfect ice made sailing on Sunapee today was the ideal answer to pent up early season enthusiasm!
Thanks to Mark’s early morning ice check and marking of the few questionable spots at the south end, 10 to 12 boats took advantage- safe, fun and fast!
For those who haven’t sailed Sunapee, launching off the beach at the State Park couldn’t be more convenient and has ample parking for vehicles and trailers alike so until lakes closer to home become safely sailable, Sunapee ice is well worth the tripsnow and reduced wind is forecast for the weekend
I do not have a Wentworth update at the moment but it is likely coming. See you on the ice tomorrow,
John
John@neiya.org
Sailing Saturday 1/11 & 1/12
People sailed both Wentworth and Sunapee today and we will be back out tomorrow.
The weather forecast isn’t spectacular with light winds across the region. We can’t fix that but I for one need to get some ice time no matter what. I will be setting up at State Beach at Lake Sunapee tomorrow morning with the some of the crowd.
VC Charlie remains set up at Wentworth you can’t miss boats from the road.
Sunday we are planning to put some marks out at Sunapee and will have a decent crowd that will include race enthusiasts. If you have any interest in pushing off the starting line at any level do come.
Kate’s report from this past Monday. “Monday we sailed on Lake Massasecum with left to right in pic new iceboater Henry, Marc, Kate, Dave and Peter. This small lake is about 20 min south of Sunapee. 3 DNs, BDX, & Whizz. It was fast and gusty, sharp runners are a must!
I hope to be on Sunapee with folks this weekend.”
See you on the ice.
Sail Fast,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Ice Opportunities Abound This Weekend
Last night’s call included 22 people and was charged with excitement and anticipation as ice sailors from across the region shared updates and plans. While some have already taken to the ice, many have been eagerly waiting for the perfect conditions to arrive.
Reports came in from all corners, including the Adirondacks, as the ice sailing community gears up for a promising weekend.
Maine: A Prime Spot for Action
Bill Bucholz, has been sailing Pusahaw Lake, just north of Orono, Maine. He is there now and looking forward to a great day. Sailors from around New England will be meeting up there today. Conditions look favorable through the weekend, weather permitting.
Bucholz also noted additional opportunities, including Lake Damariscotta in Lincoln, Maine, which is ready for exploration but requires further scouting. For the latest updates from Maine, visit iceboat.me, the home of the Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club.
As previously reported by Bob S., Quaboag Pond in Brookfield, Massachusetts, still needs more time for safe sailing. Conditions will be reassessed next week.
Meanwhile, Race Chair Paul Chamberland and his network are monitoring Squam, Saratoga, and Sacandaga Lakes. These spots will be scouted and potentially sailed today and throughout the weekend.
Weather Challenges: Cold, But Windy
While temperatures have been low enough to form ice, strong winds have disrupted large areas, breaking up newly formed ice. Despite these challenges, the season is still young, and the community remains optimistic.
New Hampshire: A Growing Hub
New Hampshire offers a few strong options for the weekend.
- Lake Wentworth: VC Charlie has been actively sailing here, just outside Wolfeboro. He reports smooth, four-inch-thick ice, although there are some hazards to watch for. He will be sailing there today and throughout the weekend.
- Lake Sunapee: This lake has been a consistent hotspot over the past week. Mark Friedman, keeping a close watch, plans to refine his condition report today. Sailing is expected to continue throughout the weekend, pending inspection of known hazards.
Good luck to the NEIYA’s top tier race contingent that is or will be on the road soon to compete in the Canadian Nationals. Our Canadian friends have been doing quite well at the top of the DN fleet so it will certainly be some lively racing eh.
Scratch Racing: Stay Tuned
Scratch racing and maybe an official club race is planned for Saturday, with the venue to be confirmed based on scouting reports. The leading contenders are Lake Wentworth and Lake Sunapee. Stay tuned for updates, and get ready to hit the ice.
Tech Update: Website and Directory
Some members have noticed that the Member Section, including the club directory, is missing from the website’s top menu. I am working to restore it, and members will receive an email with updated access details and passwords later today. Apologies for not noticing myself.
On the bright side, the website now resolves to the shorter NEIYA.org, although theneiya.org will still work for existing bookmarks.
Final Thoughts
Final thoughts, as the legendary ice sailor Leo Healey always said, “There Is Thin Ice Someplace.” Wherever you go this weekend, sail fast, stay safe, and enjoy the season!
Sail Fast,
John Stanton
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Quaboag Status 1/8/25
Straight from our trusted Quaboag Pond scout, Bob S., the advice is clear: let the cold do its work for a few more days. Check out Bob’s take on Quaboag below. While conditions are still firming up in the more souther areas, there’s no shortage of action in New Hampshire and Maine and points north, where opportunities are either open or opening soon.
For those seeking top-tier competition, James “T” Thieler, Eastern Lakes Rear Commodore of the International DN Ice Yacht Racing Association (IDNIYRA), previously reported that the Montreal group is hosting the Canadian Nationals this weekend. A premier event for serious racers in the Northeast.
Stay tuned: we’re compiling reports and will share a full summary of weekend opportunities tomorrow evening, shortly after 7 p.m.
See you on the ice this weekend!
John
john@neiya.org
Wednesday i stopped by quaboag, cut a hole in front of the ramp it was 4 inches.
Drove down the east shore and found some holes and large cracks.
The same thing on the west side, only found 2 inches in some places.
I didn’t walk it because i was alone, too many different kinds of ice not good for sailing yet.
Going up north for the weekend.
Bob S
Race We Must…
Racing the Wind and Each Other. For iceboaters, racing and speed is not just a pastime—it’s the very essence of the sport. At every level, from casual enthusiasts to world-class competitors, the shared drive for speed unites us all. It’s why we joined the iceboating ranks in the first place and why we remain faithful. Whether on the global stage or at local events, iceboating is a testament to speed, skill, and a unique connection to nature’s raw power.
The competitive spirit finds it’s highest expression through international organizations like the International DN Ice Yacht Racing Association (IDNIYRA.ORG) and the International Skeeter Association (ISA). These governing bodies oversee races that span the U.S. and the world, while local groups like our New England Ice Yacht Association (NEIYA) keep the grassroots energy alive and feed and nurture the competitive spirit. One of the longest-running sailing rivalries over 100 years and counting is between the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club and the North Shrewsbury Ice Boat & Yacht Club still thrives to this day. Will this be the year the Rocket gets a chance to best Jack Frost and bring the cup back to NJ?
But at its heart, all iceboating is a race against the wind itself. Each time we push off and sheet in, we’re testing our mettle against nature. On an iceboat, powered by nothing but wind, sail, and low friction, we accomplish what the average person might think impossible. Sailing faster than the wind. With simple vectors of attack and apparent wind, we consistently beat the very force that propels us. Except when sailing dead downwind or in irons of course. Our GPS and anemometer devices confirm it every time.
Victory isn’t always measured by trophies or podium finishes. Whether we look at how close our starting position is to the center of the starting line or comparing GPS readings back in the pits, we know the real competition is with the elements and how we adjust while sailing around the plate. Win or lose, we’ve given the wind a proper thrashing, and the sheer joy of the experience leaves us all grinning.
This past weekend marked the unofficial mass start of the season, with many in the fleet taking to the ice. For those lucky enough to sail today and the rest of the week, the thrill of racing has already begun. Looking ahead, we’re hoping to host official NEIYA races this coming weekend. Race Chair Paul Chamberland will oversee the events and could use some assistance in scouting the best ice conditions, as well as managing scoring and race logistics. If you want to be in the thick of the action without stepping into a boat, volunteering to help score races is a great way to contribute. Racing will be one of the topics on this coming Thursday’s Call @ 6:30pm. Be on for the latest.
So, gear up, stay tuned, and let’s make this season one to remember. The ice is calling, and the wind is waiting to be conquered.
Sail fast,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Lake Massasecum & Sunapee NH Update
Mark reports on some NH ice. Remember sail heads up conditions change and no ice is ever 100% safe. Mark is looking for people to sail Sunapee from state beach tomorrow.
Dick Boisvert and I sailed Lake Massasecum In Bradford today. The ice was 10 inches thick and generally smooth with a coating of snow less than an inch. There is a mile of ice here with good launch access, but limited parking. It should be good again tomorrow.
Sunapee looks good for tomorrow. The ice is solid at the state beach with drive down to the ice access. 4-6 inches of ice in some places , but 2-3 inches further out. There is an open seam out further (per an ice fisherman). This may close overnight as temps dip down to 7 degrees. Weather for tomorrow is 17 degrees at noon w 11mph winds (all afternoon). Monday is the day to sail Sunapee.
Winds on Tuesday, Wed, Thurs to >20mph
I plan to be at the state beach between 11 AM and Noon. Please contact me if you plan to come.
Mark
All We Know For The Weekend
Rounding out what we know leaves us with not a lot of options but the cold is here and we will be on the ice for sure next week
VC Charlie S reports a good amount of open water on Wentworth. Waiting on a cold night or two to lock it down again. he will be trying out his new Skimmer on Mirror lake tomorrow thickness was reported to be 6″. Launvh ogg Rt 109 Tuftonboro. This is a small lake and has yet to be sailed but if you’re near by give it a try tomorrow.
Mark’s report from Sunapee, NH. Gray ice extends about 4 miles from Newbury harbor to just north of Big Island. The broads are open water. Ice at the state beach is broken into slabs and I could not walk out on it. I am guessing the overall thickness is less than 2 inches and not safe for skating or sailing. With the cold temps coming the ice should thicken. I am hopeful it may be safe to sail on it by Sunday. Monday or Tuesday may be a better bet.
Mark
Race Chair Paul Chamberland has nothing in the Adirondack region of NY but does expect the next few days. As the cold takes effect we will likely toss some cones and a starting line down and race. Maybe in ME, maybe NH. We will see.
That’s it for now. Be safe check on your equipment and see you on the ice soon.
Think Ice
J
john@neiya.org
P.S. Did we miss something? Reach out and let us know.
Scratch Quaboag Till Next Week
Bob S has reported that after looking at Quaboag at noon today it is not any way ready to sail. He will keep an eye on it over the next several days and report back.
Still waiting on NH venues.
J
Polar Vortex Ushers in Our Season
The returning cold and the impending (so called) polar vortex set the tone for last night’s call, filling the air with anticipation
Today through the weekdnd are dedicated scouting days, as spotters assess conditions across the region. Remember: any ice we encounter is relatively new, forming in the wake of recent warming events. While some lakes and ponds have held onto their ice cover, others have been compromised by warm rain and wind. Every surface must be thoroughly inspected and tested before it can be deemed safe for sailing.
Current Scouting Updates:
- Massachusetts: Eyes are on Quaboag Pond, with scouts monitoring conditions closely.
- New Hampshire: Sunapee, Wentworth, and Mirror Lake are under active review.
- Maine: Scouting efforts are ongoing; check updates on iceboat.me for the latest Maine reports.
- Adirondack Region, NY: The Saratoga group remains optimistic and monitoring continues.
- Connecticut: Bantam Lake, which initially held its ice cover, experienced a blowout and now requires reformation. However, the predicted cold snap over the next week could bring it back into play.
Looking ahead to next week, there’s potential for both recreational cruising and competitive racing, with marks set up for those ready to line up and compete. While it’s too early to pinpoint exact locations, sailors should remain prepared—when conditions align, the call will come.
As expectations peak during this time of year, it’s crucial to temper enthusiasm with caution. Thoroughly inspect ice conditions, sail with vigilance, and stay mindful of hidden hazards. DO NOT SAIL ALONE!
Look for updates later tonight.
Let’s make this season as safe as it is exhilarating.
Sail Fast and Think Ice,
John
john@neiya.org
In Santa’s Wake
Santa didn’t quite deliver what I asked for at launch sites throughout the region, but hope is on the horizon as ice continues to build. Maybe, just maybe, we’ll be out there soon. Spotters have been going to great lengths to assess the ice conditions, from the ground to the tops of neighboring peaks. A big thank you to Mark for taking a moment between carving turns and amassing vertical drops to capture a shot of Lake Sunapee from the ski mountain. Here’s to icy adventures ahead!
The picture is Lake Sunapee (from the mountain). All the white areas are 1 inch of snow from last night. The blue is presumably still open water. The ice just off the State Beach launch area made cracking noises under my weight and is probably little more than an inch. I punched through with a hammer blow. The ice in Newbury harbor, which is older, is solid and at least 3 inches thick. I could not break through the hammer in some spots. I did not venture out on the plate to test it further from shore. My guess is anywhere from 1 to 3 inches. Subfreezing days and colder nights are forecast til Friday. Over the weekend it is supposed to warm up and rain. Light winds are forecast till Friday. Not encouraging, but I will continue to monitor.
I skated Squam Lake yesterday. There is a good expanse of solid gray ice in the coves and thinner (2 inches) black ice further out that may be thicker now.
Newfound lake is iced over but I did not check it.
Hopefully, we will have additional info by tonight’s call and out on some ice in the next few day.
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Like a Lion
Winter wasted no time announcing her arrival on this, her first official day. Here is to everyone that got out today in any capacity. Drive by, quick shorline check a skate or a sail.
Peter Boynton reports in from Little Sunapee, NH.
Dick Boisvert, Henry Kavle, and Peter Boynton joined Mark Friedman sailing Little Lake Sunapee today in New London NH. Ice a bit bumpy but good wind, and good company!
Henry suffered a broken mast – perhaps someone can help him out with a replacement!!
VC Charlie S. reports on happenings in NH
Skated Mirror lake. Mostly 3″ with about 1/3 2-3. One more night. Hope for wind tomorrow.
There is a Small launch site off rt 109 in Tuftonboro,NH. Another site is off Lang Pond rd. by the Libby Museum.
Have some spare time betwee December 23 – January 5th The FDR Presidential Library is delighted to host a display of authentic Hudson Valley Ice Yachts from December 23, 2024 through January 6, 2025. The display is presented by the Hudson River Ice Yacht Preservation Trust and Hudson River Ice Yacht Club.
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Winter Solstice Sail
How fitting to get a sail in on Winter Solstice Day. Very fitting in a Druid kind of way.
Mark Friedman has bee watching Little Sunnapee for a few days and finally got boat out. Here is what he found.
Little Sunapee was good today and will be good tomorrow.
It’s pretty good here today. There’s some snow on the ice, but the wind is starting to scour it. On the other hand, it’s still snowing a little. The ice is a little bit rough but not too bad. There are some wingers here today, but no ice boats besides mine.
Forecast is 7 to 10 degrees f. witn winds 12-10 mph. Bring your woolens,
I left my boat there , so I will be back
Access is from the parking lot at bucklin Beach in New London. The lot is open but unplowed. Snow is only a few inches deep. If the lot is full you can park on the “Dump road” , perpendicular to rt 114. DO NOT park on 114 or you may get towed.
Mark
Also Reporting in was Bob S. with his ever vigilant eye on Quaboag
“Stopped by quaboag today. it still has ice but the south end is open, about one third is open and the wind is blowing and it looks like the hole is getting bigger.
The shoreline is filling in near the ramp, cold weather coming we may black ice where the water is, i will keep an eye on it.
Bob S”
Other lakes are catching on a a rapid pace more as things progress.
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Real Cold Is On Our Doorstep
With the crisp taste of ice and competition still fresh, the anticipation for the coming cold front grows. Winter is bearing down, bringing the promise of smooth, black ice and the exhilarating conditions that define our sport.
Iceboating teaches us one lesson, again and again: success favors the ready. When the ice calls, you must answer. Paul Chamberland, and Jeff Roseberry, answered that call in MN and others heeded Bill Buchholz’s rallying cry at Plymouth Pond. They seized the moment and reaped the rewards.
Their efforts paid off, with Jeff picking up a fourth in the competitive DN Western Regional Championship. His result serves as a reminder of the spirit and skill required to compete at the highest levels.
As the temperature drops and the ice forms, we are reminded: the thrill awaits those who dare to chase it.
Bob S. our Cruising Chair sums it up in two sentences.
Don’t wait until you get to ice to look for all the parts. Nice day to set up and make sure everything is there and ready to go.
Bob S.
Think Ice,
John
john@neiya.org
P.S. We will have out regular 6:30 call tonight. No I can’t promise sailing on Saturday but we always have something to talk about. Email me if you have forgotten the number.
Ice is coming
Bob S reports on Quaboag today.
Looking like we may have some ice around the region to talk about on Thursday evening.
Thanks Bob keep it coming.
The pond is frozen again, no holes spotted , 1 and half inches in front of the ramp.
will check again
Bob S
Think Ice,
John
P S. Report on Landfall gathering later tonight.
The Speed and Spirit of Iceboating
Iceboating has always been synonymous with speed. A visceral, wind-driven thrill across frozen landscapes. Yet, beyond the thrill of gliding on ice at breakneck velocity lies an equally compelling draw: the camaraderie of a shared passion. This unique sport unites kindred spirits, blending the forces of nature, wind, water, and ice with a profound sense of community.
This past weekend, with plans for Minnesota not an option, Eben Whitcomb and I turned our focus closer to home. We ventured to two annual gatherings of iceboating enthusiasts: one on Long Island, N.Y., and the other along the Hudson River in Kingston, N.Y.
Both groups, as we expected but were happy to confirm, are tight-knit communities within the larger world of iceboating. On Long Island, the historic Weeks Yacht Yard buzzed with energy, its storied past lending an air of timelessness to the event. Up the Hudson, the backdrop of the Catskills and the historic Hudson reflected the true heritage of iceboating in the United States.
While it’s the adrenaline of high-speed dashes across the ice that initially captivates us, weekends like these serve as a reminder of iceboating’s true draw: the people. The sport is as much about forging bonds in the cold as it is about the rush of the ride, a balance of heart-pounding excitement and heartwarming connection.
For those eager to immerse themselves in this unique world, don’t miss the upcoming iceboat-themed open house at Landfall Navigation in Stamford, Conn. Join us this Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 151 Harvard Avenue, just off I-95 at Exits 6 North and South. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or simply curious about the sport, it’s a perfect opportunity to learn more and share in the spirit of iceboating.
Think ice, and we hope to see you Saturday!
Warm regards,
John
John@neiya.org
I have invited a few local soft water sailors to Landfall to talk iceboating next Saturday, December 14th. Looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and welcoming new ones. Come join in and help spread the word from 10am to 3pm Landfall Navigation 151 Harvard Ave, Stamford, CT 06902.
Paul and Jeff have checked in from Starbuck, Minnesota—a town without a Starbucks but full of sailing grit. With over 400 miles logged behind the tiller and hours of fine-tuning under their belts, they’re setting a high bar for the rest of us.
Gentlemen, your efforts put many of our East Coast numbers to shame. Best of luck this weekend at the Western Regionals on Lake Minnewaska—a place that seems tailor-made for your style.
Looking like an excellent venue for the DN Western Championship this coming weekend
On Saturday the Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Yacht Club held their annual swap meet at the historic Frank M. Weeks Yacht Yard in Patchogue NY. Weeks was founded in 1889 and specializes in building and repair of wooden boats big and small. The gathering featured homemade chili, desserts, and a good collection of iceboats and parts for sale. We look forward to seeing the Long Island gang out on the ice this winter.
Found in a back corner of the Weeks Yacht. I didn’t ask but looks like a wonderful project if one has the time and money. And no it did not come home with me
This past Sunday, the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club (HRIYC) held its annual meeting at the Hudson River Maritime Museum (HRMM) on the banks of Rondout Creek, a tributary of the Hudson River in Kingston, NY. The HRMM, is home to a a collection of historic iceboats as well as a history of the Hudson River. It is well for enthusiasts of nautical history.
The meeting was an inspiring gathering of sailors united by a shared passion for preserving historic iceboats. Many of these vessels, dating back to the turn of the 20th century, have storied legacies tied to prominent figures of the industrial age, including the Roosevelts and Astors.
The HRIYC serves as custodians of this unique maritime heritage, maintaining a living, functional museum on ice. Their dedication ensures these magnificent vessels remain a vibrant part of Hudson River history.
Special thanks to the HRIYC for once again voting in favor of supporting the NEIYA by renewing their paid membership.
Looking Around Dec Week One
It’s great to see some member activity out in Starbuck, Minnesota! Back home watchful eyes are scanning birdbaths, puddles, and ponds for any signs of ice. As previously reported Bob S. has shifted to hunting ice after bagging this season’s limit. Not to be outdone Peter Boynton has been searching and hoping as well. Anyone else see anything of interest?
I have invited a few local soft water sailors to Landfall to talk iceboating next Saturday, December 14th. Looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and welcoming new ones. Come join in and spread the word 10 to 3pm Landfall Navigation 151 Harvard Ave, Stamford, CT 06902.
Sail Fast,
John
The snow wet out but we have quite a bit of open water, about one third of the pond has open water, checked the grey ice 2 1\4 inches. warm weather week, we could lose it, just wait and see,
Bob S
Jeff Kent Reports from Minnewaska – Day 3 for Bernd Zieger and I. Conditions yesterday light air 1 ” stiff snow patches Turnout reasonable.
In answer to Bob S’s plea Peter Boyngton captured some skim ice on a North Andover, MA pond.
Ice Checkers Checking In
Quaboag is looking better today, with a half inch of ice where open water was two days ago.
There should be about an inch further out, snow tonight 3 to 6 inches it may help it or sink it and grey out, only time will tell.
It’s early December, we can just keep checking.
Bob S
Meanwhile, two of our members, Race Chair Paul Chamberland and Jeff Roseberry, are mixing it up on Lake Minnewaska in Starbuck, MN. Good luck sorting out your rigs this weekend and bring some cold back east with you.
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Skim Ice Observed On Quaboag Pond
Bob S reports that Quaboag in Brookfield MA has skimmed over. Cold is here!
Stay tuned saliable ice is on its way.
Don’t forget the member call on Thursday 6:30 this Thursday. You should or will have the info in your email already of shortly.
Think Ice,
John
NEIYA, Commodore
john@neiya.org
Happy 2024 Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Kicks Off the Ice Sailing Season
Happy Thanksgiving to all! Today, we celebrate gratitude, good food, family, friends, and football. But for ice sailing enthusiasts, it also marks the unofficial start of the season. While no secret pond in New England is quite ready for sailing yet, the countdown has begun. Our friends in Minnesota are gearing up, and we know it won’t be long for us here in New England and the Northeast.
Are You Ready?
With the season upon us, it’s time to prepare. Our first NEIYA Thursday call is scheduled for next Thursday, December 5th, at 6:30 PM. Current members will receive call details via email over the weekend. If you have not paid your dues, now is the time to take care of it! Visit the NEIYA website at www.neiya.org and use the membership section on the right-hand side of the homepage.
If your boat is still in storage, this weekend is the perfect opportunity to haul it out and get it ready. And don’t forget to connect with your winter ice buddies—it’s always better to prepare as a team.
Upcoming Off-Ice Gatherings in New York
For those in the New York region or anyone eager to connect with fellow ice sailing enthusiasts, two off-ice gatherings are scheduled for next weekend:
- Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Boat and Yacht Club (LRIBC)
When: Saturday, December 7th, 12:00–3:00 PM
Where: Frank M. Weeks Yacht Yard, 10 Riverview Ct, Patchogue, NY 11772 - Hudson River Ice Yacht Club (HRIYC)
When: Sunday, December 8th, 1:30–4:30 PM
Where: Hudson River Maritime Museum, Kingston, NY
Details: This potluck event is a must for fans of vintage stern steerers.
Questions?
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out via email.
Think ice, prepare your boats, and let’s make this season one to remember!
John Stanton
NEIYA, Commodore
John@neiya.org
2024 Swap & Meet: A Good Time Was Had by All
Title: 2024 Swap & Meet: A Good Time Was Had by All
A lively crowd turned out for the NEIYA’s annual Swap Meet and meeting, making for a memorable day. A big thank you goes out to everyone who helped make it a success.
By 10 a.m., the parking lot was packed with sellers, browsers, and iceboating friends reconnecting ahead of winter. Boats of every budget were on display, from vintage models from the 70s to brand-new parts and iceboats.
Four vintage DN iceboats found new homes, with plans to bring them back to cruising form to help introduce newcomers to the sport. The boats went to New Hampshire, two in Massachusetts, and one in Albany, near the Adirondack lakes. We’ll have updates on these classic crafts in the coming weeks. Their heritage will go on.
Lunch kicked off around 12:30, followed by the annual meeting, which I led with support from our new and returning officers. I highlighted the sailing opportunities from last season and paid tribute to Treasurer Bob Haag, who served the NEIYA tirelessly for twelve consecutive seasons. Bob, on behalf of all of us, thank you for your dedication—now it’s time to see you more often on the ice.
This season, we welcome Treasurer Ed Demerest and Race Committee Chair Paul Chamberland to the team. Returning are John Stanton as Commodore, Charlie Silfvenius as Vice Commodore, and Secretary Karen Binder. Bill Buchholz will continue to support our northern area in Maine, while Bob S. will cover central Massachusetts around the Worcester area.
Attendees represented all six New England states, as well as New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Special thanks to the Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Boat Club for donating a 1938 copy of Wing on the Ice, which quickly found a new owner in a mini-auction.
Stay tuned as we kick off our weekly Thursday evening calls in the next two weeks. We’re also planning some communication updates to help us locate and access the ice faster this season.
Think ice and get ready for the first black ice of the season.
John
NEIYA Commodore
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Just a Couple Weeks – Till NEIYA Swap Meet and Meeting – Saturday, Oct, 26th
Members, Guests, and anyone with an interest in Iceboating or getting onto the ice:
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.
we have acquired a few vintage DNs. They came from loving homes down in New Jersey and their former owners wanted to pass on the iceboating heritage. Some are spoken for but we have a couple looking for a new home and custodian. This offer is open to anyone that is looking to start iceboating and does not have a craft yet. We will have some of our resident experts available for guidance and help. Reach out to me if your interested. I will be transporting the boats to the swap meet.
NEIYA Swap Meet, Lunch & Meeting Information:
When: Saturday, October 26th, 10:00am
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 dues and reserve your seat at our annual Luncheon and Meeting. All are welcome to attend.
Please Pay Your Dues
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2025 Membership | $30 |
 |
| 2025 Membership + Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2025 Membership + 2X Lunch | $60 |
|
| 2025 Lunch (11/19/2024) | $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.
Till then Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
New England Ice Yacht Association 