Well, the Holidays are just around the corner and each year I’m asked by my kids and grandkids what I would like for Christmas. Of course, these gifts would all be sitting under the tree the morning of, but this year I have a different list, one which comprises of things that wouldn’t necessarily fit under the tree, so I thought maybe I would share it with you. This wish (or wish not) list will really challenge my kids this year!

This wish (or wish not) list will really challenge my kids this year!

-I wish to be on the hook having a quiet evening of cocktails and dinner without a single jet ski buzzing around.

-I wish to be tied up at the dock stern-to-stern with a big boat that doesn’t leave the blazing tower lights on all night.

-I wish to cruise the ICW without encountering some inconsiderate captain throwing a six-foot wake, rolling the refrigerator out of its place.

-I wish to not pay over six dollars per gallon of fuel in the islands while cruising.

-I wish to not be docked or tied up near another boat that blares annoying music into the wee hours of the night… especially the sort of music that has the same annoying beat—but with different words—that no one can understand.

-I wish to not be hassled by a storm with a name.

-I wish to never sleep under a leaky hatch.

-I wish that no bird droppings mess up my deck and swim platform.

These wishes granted would surely make Christmas last all year.

As we head into the new year, it’s hard to believe that in 2012 Southern Boating will enter its 40th year of publication.
For four decades now, we’ve shared great boats and wonderful destinations with you; new products and trends in the boating industry; and we’ve simply just celebrated the greatest activity on earth—letting go of the dock lines and heading out into the watery world. And it’s my biggest wish for the coming year to continue doing exactly that.
On behalf of the entire SB staff, here’s to a joyous and prosperous Holiday Season and New Year!