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
Toads wild ride!
4 brave souls with storm sails braved Lake Wentworth today for some playtime. Plenty of good ice but one sailor managed a runner in hole incident which resulted in a rapid disassembly of his craft. A sketchy tow back to the pits was accomplished. Be there tomorrow with a little less wind I hope.
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
Keeping the sport alive
Here’s the cover of this issue if Boathouse News from the New Hampshire Boat Museum with its new location in Moultonboro, NH.
I had the pleasure of restoring this wonderful old boat for the museum and it was used in last seasons ice boating display which included this one, a vintage DN, a Skimmer, and an ice Opti. I’d love to see a permanent section of the museum devoted to Iceboating.
Currently closed for the season and renovations, but will open in May. It’s really a treat to see the displays of boating in New Hampshire.
How much is enough?
Now that I have the first sail of the season out of the way, the question came to mind of how much actual sailing time is required to say that you did indeed sail? I skated Lake Wentworth on Tuesday, a little snow/rain came through Wednesday/Thursday and setup occurred on Friday with howling winds. An exploratory sail happened with my super DN and storm sail. Running loose sheeted I made several runs up and down one side of the lake. This probably took maybe 20-30 minutes. Shakedown run was good but winds were building so I parked the rig. I think I would have considered that a short but definite sail. Saturday I had a rehabbed vintage DN that I wanted to test drive. With no wind to speak of, I figured I could at least do a push test. However, as the telltale began to flicker, I thought perhaps it might be enough to move on the rough ice. After getting my sprint training, a zephyr came up and I made 3 runs of about 1/2 mile in length. Another little puff gave me 2 more. Not bad I thought with an untried heavy rig and a totally flat sail. The question is, did it qualify as a sail? How far or how long, does one need to be moving under wind power to qualify as a countable day of sailing? I recall one day at the end of last season where after pushing out of Wolfeboro bay, I managed a 1/4 mile run with one tack and almost made it back to where I started. Since no one else moved under wind power, I was told that indeed I had sailed. No one can dispute that a day of racing or completing the Hard Way indeed qualifies. But how about when everyone is rigged and the teaser gets you out just far enough so the “walk of shame” back to the staging area has to occur. This may be followed by a repeat scenario the next hour and so on throughout the day.
Regardless of how you want to qualify a day of sailing, you can simply state that you had a day of ice boating. This covers all the bases no matter what occurs on the ice. Even if the boat doesn’t get set up, it qualifies as a scouting trip. If there is no wind it, becomes an on ice tuning clinic and information exchange meeting. It may even turn into a food fest once the grill comes out. The end of the day watering hole can still be counted as part of the experience, wind or not.
As the season begins, may you have smooth safe ice, adequate wind, and great companionship whether it is a day of sailing or a day of Ice boating.
Season’s Greetings to all.
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 Cost of Fun
I remember my dad pouring over this flyer sometime in the 1960’s just after he’d been bitten. He had already acquired the set of DN plans and was just figuring how to make it happen. I recall money being tight with a young family of 6 and a move to a new house which he had to finish the upstairs for me and my sisters. My mother was a voracious coupon clipper and many of our presents were bought with green stamps. We would rob piggy banks for a kiddie size ice cream at the, “Big Scoop” on Rt.1. The good news is we never felt poor. We had the basics and were creative in making our own fun with the rest of the neighborhood. They were good years for me. (The time warp thing.) let construction begin.l
The wood for a modified plan was relatively inexpensive but the high cost of the hardware needed some resourcefulness.
Imagine a pair of side chocks costing $8.00 whole dollars! The steering chock was another $6.00. A set of runners were almost unattainable at$40.00, $8.00 dollars more if you wanted a hardened edge. The sail added a whopping $100.00 to the bill. Now my dad was a pretty typical one if I remember correctly. The thing I admired most was his resourcefulness at making things appear. Bit by bit, parts started appearing. Not quite like the pictures, but close enough to know what they were supposed to be. It’s nice to know a welder now and again. With a set of welded chocks and some T iron runners, we set forth for the rest of the hardware. Blocks,(aka general store pulleys), galvanized cable with screw clamps, and a willing mother to try and sew a sail. We probably saved another $50.00 over this flyers cost. Yes the boat got made was a success, albeit limited.
I wonder what today’s prices are for the same parts. I often see old boats advertised for under $1000. And if you want the top end gear, 2nd mortgage time. All in all though it is still a relatively inexpensive sport…..unless you need to travel to find ice. Thank you to the racers and the great advancements to the sport. Everyone should drive a Ferrari some time. Frugal Yankees know that swaps are happening with some bargain prices on most anything boat related. If you travel with a trailer and want to checkout the Midwest area, you can come back with a fleet reasonably priced. And don’t forget the internet. Community sites and Marketplace have some great deals. I hope everyone who wants something new to add, can find it with no regrets for cost.
There’s been frost on the pumpkin for a few nights and it seems to be getting darker earlier. Look for the skaters to signal the start of the season.(They weigh less that an iceboat though.)
Think ice and I know some of you have seen this price flyer before. Let the show begin.
Swap Meets Are For Getting Ready
Getting ready is an integral part of the iceboating game, and this past weekend delivered perfect fall conditions for our annual NEIYA gathering. The lot filled early with familiar faces and newcomers alike. Some with race-ready programs, others with boats in need of a little love. A few classic iceboats were on hand, looking for new homes. One 1936 impeccably preserved ready for the ice example and the other in need of repairs. Boats are still available, seek out Brian Langley or Bill Buchholz respectively.
As always, the swap meet served as both a social and a trading hub. Boats, parts, and stories changed hands freely. I even managed to move a few aluminum mast extrusions north and west to good homes in Maine and New York.
Smiles for Ice –
After lunch, Bob Wills, President of the Hudson River Ice Yacht Preservation Trust and Past Commodore of the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club, shared updates on the Trust’s plans for a museum and vintage boat storage. He also spoke about the historic yachts under their care. Many trace their lineage to the Roosevelt family and other notable industrialists of the Hudson River’s Gilded ice-sailing era.
Continuing the wooden-boat theme, Frank Morris, Vice Chair of Lowell’s Boat Shop, gave an update on the donated DNs from the Davidson family, including DN 1220, built by Kerr Davidson. After a cleanup and careful runner alignment, DN 1220 now resides in New Hampshire, awaiting its first sheet of black ice. Frank also shared an inspiring overview of Lowell’s mission “to preserve and perpetuate the art and craft of wooden boatbuilding.” In many ways, that’s what we do too.
Frank Morris Takes the stage
Following our guest speakers, the annual business meeting convened. Full minutes and financials will be posted on neiya.org in the coming days.
Eben Whitcomb, chair of the nominating committee, presented the 2025–26 officer slate, which was approved by the membership:
- Commodore: John Stanton
- Vice Commodore: Charlie Silfvenius
- Secretary: Karen Binder
- Treasurer: Ed Demarest
Looking ahead, we’ll hold an off-ice gathering near Wolfeboro, NH, on Saturday, December 6, hosted by Vice Commodore Charlie Silfvenius. The venue and agenda will be announced soon. This event will be open to all. This includes ice veterans, newcomers, and anyone curious about the sport. NEIYA members are especially encouraged to attend.
Members in good standing will receive details this week for our weekly conference calls, scheduled to resume in November.
Another highway sunset/sunrise with my mast on the roof pointing the way down the road. Heading from or to home, usually north, but any direction can happen. Always chasing the next hardwater horizon.
The picture is on way home from Maine following the Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club Meeting on Sunday. Great conversation and atmosphere. They are starting a Plymouth Pond black ice vigil. Stay tuned for first ice In Maine.
Time to prep your gear, sharpen your runners, and ready the trailer. The ice season is coming!
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
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.
How can I fit it all in?
This not about my busy schedule and many varied hobbies and interests. It is about the laws of physics which states that no two objects can occupy the same space simultaneously . We then go on to learn that atoms are mostly space. Armed with that information we only need to figure out how to intertwine the atoms of those two objects to allow one space to be utilized to the max.
When I picked up roots in 1980 and headed west, all my worldly possessions fit into, (or on top of), my SAAB 99, including an extra kayak for a friend. Two of us lived in what was affectionately known the Wilson Boxes. Approximately 30×40 feet in size. No extra storage and I certainly wasn’t going to pay for a storage unit.
The next move to Alaska had an 8x8x6 foot high box trailer towed behind a 72 jeep wagoneer. My wife had a Subaru with a U-Haul behind. The move east in 1986 had the same box trailer, no Subaru, and we mailed about 25 max load boxes to our folks. Within 2 years we had built a nice log home and managed to fit everything in it. And then we thought, “Gee, wouldn’t it be nice if we had a garage to keep the cars in.” A 2 car size would take care of our needs, but what if we expanded to a 3 car for maybe a workshop and storage upstairs, just in case. Now you may be thinking this would be enough for any couple, but no. Two Rhino shelters were added as we settled into that phase of life where all your toys need a home. The good news is I’m beginning to reverse the trend at 73 years of age, however slowly.
So you may be wondering why I needed to set the stage for this post. It does have much to do with Ice boats during the 340 some odd days that they are not on the ice. They need to be put somewhere safe and sound through the summer heat and spring rains. This not only includes the hulls and gear but especially the sails which I believe are made with a mouse attractant that contains a trigger for mice to find entry into any container devised by humankind.
Show up at any race and you’ll find a variety of small cars with a DN strapped on top and so much gear inside that you need to drive on instruments. Some of these sailor live I. A small apartment. Or maybe a group has a communal trailer with half a dozen boats and gear secure and ready to go at a moments notice. But I digress, this is about the non sailing days. I had a wonderful little enclosed trailer that worked well for many years, I just didn’t dare to drive too far with it. It held 2 DNs and gear nicely. Then the children came and of course we tortured our two girls with every outdoor activity we could. This ment a new boat was needed and a Gambit became part of the fleet. With a sidecar added the whole family could go……..but a new trailer was needed. Then my first stern steerer entered the scene. It needed its own trailer, more space needs. That one now sail with the New York crew but a second one has a home at my place. The trailer for this one is multipurpose so it needed a summer home. The 2 skimmers recently added to my fleet will amazingly fit into our town and country van……..however the e bikes reside there in the summer.
So here is where it all fits in…for now. The super DN, my wife’s DN, and my BDX reside full time in the trailer minus the runners and sails. ( those are inside for rust proofing and mouse proofing.) the Skimmers hang on the garage wall over the 20 stern steerer on brackets. I have vintage DN parts stored out of wind and weather. I have one vintage DN that was on display at the New Hampshire Boat Museum that needs a home, with me or someone who wants to try the sport. Maybe in two years I’ll have reduced my accumulations to the point where the cars might fit back in the garage.
Not a bad system for me, but I hear there is swap coming up. I might need to call my sponsor for support for this addiction. Hope you manage to find all the gear for the year, maybe even all in one place with no rust and no mouse stains.
See you at the meeting.
Kingston Ontario Swap Meet!
The Kingston, Ontario group is happy to announce, we are doing a Swap Meet for iceboats.
Where?
John Curtis is graciously hosting at his house on NOVEMBER 15, 2025 from 1200 – 1700
44 Alwington Ave
Kingston, ON
Canada
John, as most know, is an excellent builder of many things and he especially loves to build iceboats, planks, runners…everything really. He’ll be happy to show you his shop where all the magic is done. Make sure you ask him about his new runner sharpening hand tools when you see him. I’m sure they will sell quick.
We will again have a blade sharpener on site for anyone who needs a quick pass to make their runners sharp. Also, I’m sure John will have his alignment jig handy if one needs an alignment.
I have heard of some iceboats for sale. This would be a good time to bring it and set it up for interested buyers. Last year two complete boats were sold at the meet.
Chilli will be hot served after the meet gets started. It went fast last year, I didn’t even get any so get there early.
Don’t forget to bring sails, masts, Booms, chocks…whatever you have extra you won’t need.
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.
Museum Finds
I’ll start by saying that in true frugal yankee form, I have not turned the heat on yet. I’ll hold out until October like the die hard I am. That being said, this little cold snap has many of us thinking ice already. I did move my trailer to assess the delaminating plywood covering and contemplating a more robust covering. (Okay I should have used marine ply.)
Any way, to get back to the title, I’d like to share a small display on Iceboating that I stumbled upon in a small museum in Mahone Bay , Nova Scotia. Our little camping excursion this year was the Cabot trail and following the coastline around the rest of Nova Scotia. Being a bit of a museum addict,( of certain genre) I caught several nice museums on this trip. Yes even the one on Rug Hooking in Cheticamp was nice. Yarmouth had a great one on the cod fishing industry and Lunenburg had a nice historical waterfront with a dory shop and a cooperage that is still making barrels with original machinery.
Mahone bay had just an older house of historical value and artifacts. I noticed two small models in a glass case and then caught the write up. It seems the bay would often freeze over and play time would occur. I was aware that the Maritimes did have ice sailors and often have seen their post.
I hope you enjoy this little display.
Think ice.
If you’re up around Lake Winnipesaukee, check out the iceboat display at the New Hampshire Boat Museum. There is also a steamboat gathering at Lee’s Mills on Winni and the classic/vintage race regatta is going on in Wolfeboro this Friday and Saturday.
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 |
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| 2025-26 Membership + Lunch | $45 |
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| 2025-26 Membership + 2X Lunch | $60 |
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| 2025 Lunch | $15 |
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| 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.
DN RANK LIST PUBLISHED
Hey Gang-
The DN Rank List for 2026 has been published! Take a look and see how you, your friends and rivals all stack up. Good for inspiration and motivation!
Speaking of motivation, there is a chill to the air this morning… Time to get into the shop and the gym and start prepping for the season. Looking forward to it!
T Thieler DN US 5224
Rank list here:
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
Design Insights… Fascinating Stuff
Hey Gang-
This video has been around for a long time and I wanted to get it out there as it is one of my favorites!
It is a behind-the-scenes look at every aspect of designing and building the 12 Meter yacht that won the America’s Cup in 1987.
Some very smart people are involved and it is very interesting to see how they went about deciding what type of boat to design, which avenues to pursue, which ones to ignore, and how they investigated and verified all of their conclusions. They even talk about how they raised the money to pay for it all! Lots of cool footage of everything from sailing to tank testing to design meetings.
I know 12 Meter yachts are a world away from iceboats but the concepts and ideas presented in the documentary are relevant and applicable to iceboating, whether you are racing or cruising!
Watch, learn and enjoy!
NOVA: Sail Wars (1986) | America’s Cup Comeback ⛵🏆 – YouTube
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Off Season
New Hampshire Boat Museum
The first advice I received when I retired was, “Don’t volunteer for anything for 1 year.” Good advice to give you time to prioritize everything on your retired “to do” list. I think I held out for 6 months. Anyway since I’d already done some stuff with the NHBM, I figured it wasn’t new so it didn’t really qualify. It started as 3 hours on Monday morning with a great group of retired boat people restoring wooden boats for the museum housed in the old Allen Albee summer resort in Wolfeboro, NH. Three hours a week wasn’t too much time to devote to something I liked doing and the coffee and donuts were good. 10 years later I realized my mistake! As anyone knows, volunteering for a worthwhile cause always exceeds the estimated time you feel you can give. Three years ago the museum acquired its new home now on route 25 in Moultonboro, NH. That’s up the north end of Lake Winnipesaukee. My 5 minute drive is now a forty minute drive. For some reason I don’t clearly recall, my wife and I became part of the exhibits committee as well. Notice how my free time is diminishing. To add to this, the new museum needed volunteers to refurbish the new digs to make it really look like a museum. Thus I was back to a 40 hour workweek, still fueled by coffee and donuts with a few nice lunches thrown in on occasion.
To get back to the title, my off season this year was to help with construction and design the ice boat display. Naturally I have my own vision of what it should be, but then reality hits with space, number and types of craft, and acquisition of said craft. The museum had a Marconi rigged stern steerer from a few years back. (It was one of my first restoration projects with them.) A sweet little number that is still ice worthy even with cotton sails. This was to be the focal piece and does have a commanding presence. Although I could have easily expanded to at least 20 boats, I don’t really have that much authority…….yet. A DN would obviously need to go in along with the “Blue Streak” development story. Luckily I had recently acquired one from the last NEIYA swap. I thought it should look pretty so after another 40 hr work week I think visitors will get the idea of what the early DNs were like. This one is estimated early ‘60s based on sail info. A future display may have a modern one for a compare and contrast exhibit. (Now if only power ball would pay off so I could afford one.) a third item ended up being my wife’s Skimmer. Newly powder coated red with a new sail. (See previous post on diy.) due to the ease of setup and small storage needs, hopefully we may see growing interest. Maybe even a Skimmer Hardway fleet. And finally a trip to NY to get a loaner Ice Optimist. Another few days of labor had this one looking spiffy too. Right beside it is an Optimist dinghy that was built in one of the museums classes and used in their sailing program. Maybe we can get some youngsters involved in our winter activity. Lastly I felt that a Hardway display was needed since, after all, this is Winnipesaukee territory.
So this is how I spent my off season. Okay I’ll add a trip to Vermont to pick up a gaff stern steerer, originally from this area. Hopefully we can get a group of locals to do like the Hudson River group does and get these craft back on the ice.
So if you find yourself in New Hampshire this summer, stop by to get a quick fix for your winter passion and to see a great display of watercraft related to the waters of New Hampshire. Nhbm.org is their website. Now I think I can finally start working on my own soft water fleet that I didn’t get to in my other off season. Happy summer and think ice, if only in your drink.
New England Ice Yacht Association 