For those not as familiar with the Muskoka region of Ontario, the term breathtaking only begins to suitably describe its' allure. From its' rugged and rocky terrain to the deep blue-gray hue of Lakes Joseph, Muskoka and Rosseau, it is undoubtedly a travel destination not to be missed.

The inaugural event of the long weekend was having a cocktail and dinner party aboard the RMS Segwun, a fully restored, coal-fired steamer built in 1887. Having been built expressly for the Muskoka region, it is somehow good to know that she has spent every season since plying these waters.

As always, becoming acquainted (and re-acquainted) with many ACBS friends during such trips is a highlight.

Friday was dedicated to doing the business of ACBS. Our meeting "headquarters" was Muskoka Sands, a beautiful resort hotel perched high above the lake on one of the region's rocky bluffs. As a Presidents' Roundtable is not customarily held at the summer meeting, the morning began with the board meeting, with the main item on the agenda being the proposed dues increase.

Speaking of which, if you'd allow me to take off my ACBS Secretary hat for a moment, I'd like to make one observation in regard to this July's meeting. Whatever the organization, contemplating a dues increase should not (and in the case of ACBS, was not) a task to be taken lightly. Much time and diligence was exerted by many in their research, analysis and recommendations. I'd like to commend our international officers and directors for their dedication to our Society. Perhaps one of the most noteworthy hallmarks of ACBS is that the organization is run by an all-volunteer board. Nothing but the collective love of antique and classic boats serves as the catalyst for their service.

With the meeting having concluded by mid-afternoon, we were able to then partake of some of the best things Muskoka has to offer: pristine waters, classic boats and awe-inspiring boathouses.

My water taxi for the day ended up being a 1924 Ditchburn "long-deck" launch. Leaving the Muskoka Sands, we crisscrossed the light chop of Lake Muskoka, each time finding an even more unique work of boathouse architecture.

Later that night, a sumptuous dinner was enjoyed at Muskoka Sands, with all enjoying a spectacular view.

On Saturday, that sun dawned on what is perhaps the highlight of the Gravenhurst yearly calendar: the boat show.

As I'm sure my fellow Water Wonderland Chapter members who've attended this show will attest, I found Gravenhurst to be one of the finest shows to which I've traveled. I would submit that from the perspective of unique and unusual boats, this show competes well against any other in North America, including Tahoe and Clayton. Not only were the boats one-of-a-kind, but the workmanship exhibited was beyond reproach. That evening, we were shown further gracious Canadian hospitality through a wonderful gourmet buffet served on the boat show grounds along the shore.