Kala Ukuleles at Lighthouse Harbor Marina & OnlineWatersports.com!

So you might be wondering why a boat dealer and watersports store decided to carry Kala brand Ukuleles.  Sounds like a fair question.  During our annual trip to Surf Expo in Florida, we stumbled upon these beautiful instruments and I especially liked the Ukadelic designs.

  

Get it?  Ukulele + Psychedelic = Ukadelic

Now...I've been playing guitar since I was six years old (about 44 years now) and I can assure you these are not only cool looking, but professional and high quality instruments.  We actually sold three to ourselves before getting home from Surf Expo.  You see, when we went online to research ukuleles, we found this video of Jake Shimabukuro paying Bohemian Rhapsody on a ukulele. 

Check it out!

Bohemian Rhapsody on the Ukulele

We also discovered that Kala makes a collection of ukuleles called the Waterman series.  These are also quality instruments...but waterproof.  With the connection of "waterproof" and "boating" successfully established, that basically sealed the deal and we stocked up, returned home and put them on display in our showroom.

So if you are interested in seeing what you can do on these "mini-guitars" or just want to have a portable musical instrument with you while you are boating on beautiful Lake Wallenpaupack...one of these Kala Ukuleles might be just the ticket.  And if you pick one up for Christmas, you can learn a few tunes before the summer kicks off.

Stop by Lighthouse Harbor Marina (we are open all winter long), take a look at all the models we have on display or check them out at OnlineWatersports.com.

HO Sports RAD, RAD+ and FAD Now in Stock!

OnlineWatersports.com over at Lighthouse Harbor Marina now has a full stock of the HO Sports RAD, RAD+ and FAD Aquatic Devices.

Before wakeboarding was invented, watersports pioneers of the 1960's experimented with objects to ride behind the boat. Some of the more successful riding devices were wooden discs. Grandpa would take a piece of plywood to his woodshop and cut it into a circular shape. The family would take turns 'discing' in between water ski sets. It was a great way to introduce people to riding behind the boat without the learning curve associated with waterskiing. 50 years later, we've combined the nostalgia of the past with the advanced materials and construction methods of today to give you the all new RAD discs and the FAD board.

We even have one up on the wall at the Lighthouse Harbor Ships' store.  Stop in and see what the 5 foot RAD+ can do!

The Round Aquatic Devices (RADs) allow anyone, regardless of skill level, to participate in a day behind the boat. Everyone is guaranteed to get up on the 5' RAD+...you can put the handle in the handle hook, sit, stand or kneel, and away you go. For a more advanced ride, or once you've mastered the RAD+, try out the smaller 3' RAD disc or the Fun Aquatic Device (FAD board). The riding possibilities are endless. Fun for all ages, the FAD and RADs are guaranteed to turn some heads on your lake this summer.

Fun Commercial for RAD, RAD+ and FAD!

Drop Stitch is a pretty amazing material we're using to create the RADs and FAD. This material allows us to build inflatable items that can be inflated to optimum rigidity while delivering the most durable inflatables we've ever offered. This innovative material is called Drop Stitch and is achieved by joining two pieces of support fabric together with thousands of fine polyester thread lengths. Each thread is spaced evenly and all threads are the exact same length. Next an air-tight coating is applied to the top and bottom of the support material to ensure an air tight seal. The result is Drop Stitch Construction. Drop Stitch construction is capable of achieving levels of pressure equal to 20 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch).

See the collection of HO Sports Aquatic Devices online at OnlineWatersports.com or in person at Lighthouse Harbor's Ships' store.  And we have just stocked up on a whole bunch of 2016 watersports products for Christmas and the New Year.  We even have some brand new, left over gear and of course our Hobie Kayaks, Hobie Paddleboards and Kala Ukuleles.  Yes...ukuleles!

Kala Ukuleles at Lighthouse Harbor Marina!

Yes...you read that right!  Lighthouse Harbor Marina has in-stock, Kala brand Ukuleles on display in our showroom and online at OnlineWatersports.com and LighthouseHarbor.com.  We discovered these cool and high quality instruments at this year's Surf Expo and decided that they would be a nice accessory to your boating experience.

Just imagine cruising Lake Wallenpaupack on a beautiful and quiet day while playing (or tinkering) with one of these amazingly beautiful looking and sounding instruments.

Featured Boat of the Month: 2015 Tige Z1 for Sale

Lighthouse Harbor Marina's featured boat of the month for October 2015 is our 2015 Tige Z1!  This newly arrived Z1 is a surf monster! She's powered by the Indmar Ford Raptor 400 series motor. Also included with the boat is a custom 2015 Boatmate tandem axle trailer with swing away tongue, full size spare tire and carrier.

Other options in our Z1 include the AVX surf system with rider remote, the surf X ballast package with a huge 2600 lb filling capacity, the Tige touch 2 full system control touchscreen computer, the Alpha Z tower in black, black swivel surf racks, the Wet Sounds tower of power stereo system rev 10 tower speakers that have L.E.D. Lighted speaker rings, amp and subwoofer, surlast full boat cover,Tivoli steering wheel upgrade, 110v battery charger with deckplug, electronic isolator with dual batteries, single heater, stereo transom remote, seadeck non-skid flooring throughout the entire boat.

This boat is on display at our lakefront marina. Please call us at (570) 857-0220 for more details or to schedule a time to stop by and see this beast in person!

As always...our featured boat includes a FREE slip or winter storage, two custom registration number graphics, one custom boat name graphic and one Coast Guard kit.  But only until the end of the month!

Autumnal Equinox - First Day of Fall

Today, September 23rd, was the autumnal equinox at 4:21am EDT. As stated in our previous blog regarding the spring equinox, the word equinox is derived from the Latin words meaning “equal night”. This suggests that during the equinox there are exactly 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness. The autumnal equinox is the start of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, it also is the first day of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. In turn, the spring equinox in the north (in March) is the first day of autumn south of the equator.

The only times the sun passes directly overhead is during the spring or autumnal equinox directly on the equator. These two equinoxes are also the only time the sun rises due east and sets due west. At this time, the Earth's axis points neither at, nor away from the Sun.

The autumnal equinox is not on the same day every year. It varies between September 22, 23, or 24 every year. From here on out the sun will rise later and nightfall will come sooner in the Northern Hemisphere.

So since autumn is officially here, get outside and enjoy the crisp weather, the beautiful scenery, and all things pumpkin!

Lake Wallenpaupack Hydro's "Buoys at Low Water Series"

"For 7 days, we will be showing you certain hazard buoys located around Lake Wallenpaupack at low water (1179-1180 Elevation). The Lake Office is responsible for the installation and maintenance of the hazard buoys on the lake at the direction of the PA Fish and Boat Commission. Each year, we struggle with buoys being moved or stolen, creating safety hazards. Boaters might think they are placed in the wrong location but often do not understand the size of the underwater feature it is marking. Also, when the lake lowers 8 feet throughout the season, the buoys will float side to side. PFBC recommends that people stay 100 feet from hazard buoys at all times. Boaters should also familiarize themselves with the lake and its hazards by using a Boating Guide brochure found at many boat accesses and marinas and also online here." - Lake Wallenpaupack Hydro

1. MARTINS COVE ROCKS

2. MARTINS COVE SHOAL

3. KIPP ISLAND SHOAL

4. EPPLY ISLAND ROCKS

5. CAIRNS ISLAND SHORELINE AND SHOAL

6. BURNS ISLAND SHOAL

7. BURNS ISLAND ROCKS

"This year in particular, people are hitting 3 large rocks sitting in the southwest entrance to the cove. This late in the season, anyone without a pontoon boat should NOT be boating behind Burns Island. We have consulted with PA Fish and Boat and they have agreed to recommend a rock buoy be put in the middle of the channel going into the cove. The buoy has since been installed."

Winter Indoor/Outdoor Boat Storage

It's that time of year again! Time to think about storing your boat for the winter. Lighthouse Harbor Marina on Lake Wallenpaupack offers indoor or outdoor winter storage options. All winter storage packages include bottom wash, battery charge, engine drain plugs removed, hull drain plugs removed, engine filled with non-toxic anti-freeze solution (-50°F), motors fogged, fuel stabilizers, outside storage includes shrink-wrap, lower unit gear lube change, pressure & vacuum test and spring re-commissioning.

Indoor winter storage provides your boat with complete protection from the elements. You do not have to worry about snow or ice buildup on your boat. Outdoor winter storage includes shrink-wrap which still protects your boat from the elements, however the bottom of the boat is exposed.

Visit LighthouseHarbor.com for our indoor/outdoor winter storage price sheet. We offer a 5% senior citizen discount to those 62+.

Wally Lake Fest 2015

Wally Lake Fest, Presented by the Downtown Hawley Partnership, is a festival designed to help summer last just a little bit longer in Hawley! Come enjoy art exhibits, the Grand Boat Parade, the Open Market Fair with artisan food purveyors, specialty arts, crafts and jewelry. There will be a Boat & PWC Expo at the High School and Downtown Hawley will be open late for a night on the town.

Friday, August 28th, Saturday, August 29th, and Sunday, August 30th

Friday Events:

• Hydroelectric Dam Tours - Located at the Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center from 10am-3pm (570-253-7001)
• Lakeside Luau - Located at Ehrhardt's Pub from 4pm-6pm (570-226-2124)
• Jazz on the Deck - Located at The Settler's Inn from 6pm-10pm (570-226-2993)
• Show at the Ritz: Arsenic & Old Lace - Located at the Ritz Company Playhouse in Downtown Hawley at 8pm (570-226-9752)
• Evening Concert Series - Located at The Boat House Restaurant from 5pm-8pm (570-226-5027)
• Comedy Night - Located at the Cocoon Coffee House at 8:30pm (silkmillharmony.com)
• The Quake - Located at Ehrhardt's Pub from 9pm-1am (570-226-2124)

Saturday Events:

• FREE SHUTTLE BUS - Runs every 5-10 minutes from 10am-6pm
• Fly Tying Demo - Located at the Lake Wallenpaupack Visitors Center from 9am-1pm
• Hydroelectric Dam Tours - Located at the Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center from 10am-3pm (570-253-7001)
• Friends and Family Open House | Ducks Gone Wild! - Located at Miss Elly's Antiques/The Village Bath from 10am-7pm (570-226-7513)
• Shopping and Dining Downtown - Located in Downtown Hawley (visithawleypa.com)
• Canoe, Stand Up Paddleboard and Kayak Demo - Located at Palmyra Township Beach from 10am-4pm (570-352-3444)
• Fly Casting Demo & Instruction - Located at Wallenpaupack HS Ball Field from 10am-12pm
• Sculpted Ice Works Factory Tour & Ice Museum - Located at Sculpted Ice Works from 11am-4pm (570-226-6264)
• Open Market Fair - Located at the Wallenpaupack Visitors Center from 10am-5pm (570-226-3191)
• Motorcycle "Ride for the Lake" - Located at the Wallenpaupack Area High School from 10am-12pm (570-226-3865)
• Boat, Watercraft & Outdoor Show - Located at the Wallenpaupack Area High School from 10am-4pm
• Craft & Vendor Fair - Located at the Wallenpaupack Area High School from 10am-5pm
• Wild Edibles Walk - Located at the Lacawac Sanctuary from 10am-12pm (570-689-9494)
• Pet Adoption Day - Located at Penny Lane Candies from 11am-3pm (570-226-1987)
• Wallypalooza - Located ON Lake Wallenpaupack in front of the Visitor's Center from 11am-5:30pm. Includes live bands on a floating stage and the BOAT PARADE from 2pm-2:30pm
• Cruise the Lake on a Kayak or SUP - Located at Wallenpaupack Boat Tour and Boat Rentals from 11am-4pm (570-226-3293)
• Family Activity Spot at Gresham's Landing - Located at Gresham's Landing from 11am-4pm (570-226-3293)
• Sculpted Ice Works Presents "Mojito Ice Bar" - Located at Cocoon Coffee House from 12pm-6pm
• "Hemlock Hallow School 1890 Experience" in Memoriam of Thomas H. Kennedy - Located at 1202 Avoy Rd., Lakeville from 12pm-5pm (570-226-2200)
• Yoga at Lacawac - Located at Lacawac Sanctuary at 1pm (570-689-9494)
• Sailboat Rides - Located at Lighthouse Harbor Marina, Paupack Sailing Club from 1pm-4pm (570-226-2141)
• Boat Parade - Located on Lake Wallenpaupack. Assemble at 11:30am at Shuman's Point. Pass the Tafton Dike at 2pm
• Annual Chicken BBQ - Located at the Lakeville Fire Dept. from 3pm until sold out (570-352-6782)
• Car Cruise of Hawley - Located at the Dime Bank parking area & Keystone St. from 5pm-9pm
• Wally Fest Express the Stourbridge Line Train Rides - Located in Downtown Hawley & Downtown Honesdale from 5pm-8pm (570-470-2697)
• Ice Cream Social & Live Wallenpaupack Area High School Marching Band - Located at AMSkier Insurance Gazebo from 6pm-7pm
• Show at the Ritz: Arsenic & Old Lace - Located at the Ritz Company Playhouse in Downtown Hawley at 8pm (570-226-9752)
• Matt Nakoa Trio - Located at the Hawley Silk Mill at 8pm (silkmillharmony.com)
• Harkland - Located at Ehrhardt's Pub from 9pm-midnight (570-226-2124)

Sunday Events:

• FREE SHUTTLE BUS - Runs every 5-10 minutes from 11am-5pm
• Blueberry Pancake Breakfast - Located at Blooming Grove Twp. VFD from 8am-1pm (570-775-7355)
• Boat, Watercraft & Outdoor Show - Located at the Wallenpaupack Area High School from 10am-4pm
• Canoe, Stand Up Paddleboard and Kayak Demo - Located at Palmyra Township Beach from 10am-4pm (570-352-3444)
• Open Market Fair - Located at the Wallenpaupack Visitors Center from 10am-5pm (570-226-3191)
• Craft & Vendor Fair - Located at the Wallenpaupack Area High School from 10am-5pm
• Yoga at Lacawac - Located at Lacawac Sanctuary at 1pm (570-689-9494)
• Friends and Family Open House | Ducks Gone Wild! - Located at Miss Elly's Antiques/The Village Bath from 10am-7pm (570-226-7513)
• Sailboat Regatta - Located at the Tafton Dike, Paupack Sailing Club from 12pm-3pm
• Family Activity Spot at Gresham's Landing - Located at Gresham's Landing from 11am-3pm (570-226-3293)
• New England Clam Bake 'N' Brew - Located at The Boathouse Restaurant from 12pm-4pm (570-226-5027)
• Nichole Granville Duo - Located at The Boathouse Restaurant from 5pm-8pm (570-226-5027)
• Blues, Brews & BBQ - Located at Glass-Wine Bar Kitchen at Ledges Hotel from 2pm-5pm & 5:30pm-9pm (570-226-1337)
• The Young Geezers American Music Concert - Located at the Carriage House at Lacawac Sanctuary at 3pm (570-689-9494)
• Rock School - Making Music Matter for Kids! - Located at Palmyra Twp Beach from 12pm-6pm (570-493-0299)
• Show at the Ritz: Arsenic & Old Lace - Located at the Ritz Company Playhouse in Downtown Hawley at 8pm (570-226-9752)

Please thank the sponsors of Wally Lake Fest!

For more information please visit WallyLakeFest.com

National Lighthouse Day - August 7th

Lighthouse Harbor Marina is proud to be celebrating National Lighthouse Day today, August 7th. It was on this day in 1789, that Congress approved an Act for the establishment and support of lighthouse, beacons, buoys and public piers.

Origin of National Lighthouse Day...

Senator John H. Chafee (Rhode Island) sponsored a joint resolution that was introduced to Congress on April 28, 1988 designating the day of August 7, 1989 as “National Lighthouse Day.” The summary of the resolution stated, “Designates August 7, 1989, as National Lighthouse Day and calls for lighthouse grounds, where feasible, to be open to the public.” The resolution passed the Senate on July 26, 1988 and the House (sponsored by Representative William J. Hughes, New Jersey) on October 21, 1988. President Ronald Reagan signed the Bill into public law (No. 100-622) on November 5, 1988.

                                                          -American Lighthouse Foundation

Visit American Lighthouse Foundation for all the information on this Act.

Featured Boat for August!

The featured boat at Lighthouse Harbor Marina for August is the BRAND NEW 2015 Tigé RZR in tangerine! With the purchase of the featured boat you'll get a FREE slip or winter storage, two custom registration number graphics, one custom boat name graphic, and one coast guard kit (all is a $2,500 value)!

Here's more on this month's featured boat:

Having just arrived is this 2015 Tigé RZR in tangerine and black. This boat is loaded to the gills and is powered by the new Indmar Ford Raptor 400 motor. Also included is a custom 2015 Boat mate tandem axle trailer with full spare tire and carrier.

Other options in this Tige include the AVX surf system with rider remote, the Surf X ballast package with 1600 pounds of filling capacity, the Tige touch 2 full system control touch screen computer, the Alpha Z tower in black, black swivel surf racks, the Wet Sounds tower of power stereo system with rev 10 tower speakers that have L.E.D. Lighted rings, amp and subwoofer, surlast full boat cover, Tivoli steering wheel upgrade, luxe upgraded paint scheme, 110v battery charger with deck plug, electronic isolator with dual batteries, single heater, stereo transom remote, SeaDek non-skid flooring throughout entire boat.

This boat is on display at our lakefront marina. Please call with any questions or to schedule an appointment to come by and see this killer boat!

Specifications:

• Length Overall 20' w/o Swim Platform
• Beam 94"
• Fuel Capacity 38 Gal.
• AVX Surf System with Remote
• Dry Weight 3100 lbs
• Seating Capacity 12
• Surf X Ballast Package
• Alpha Z Tower in Black

Call us at (570) 857-0220 to make an appointment to see this stunning Tigé Wakeboard Boat!

Camping Around Lake Wallenpaupack

What a beautiful area Lake Wallenpaupack offers to guest and locals alike! With the amazing lake, delicious restaurants, and abundant activities in the area, it's no wonder people travel from near and far to visit. One of the fantastic activities in the area is camping. With five lakeside campgrounds to choose from you're sure to find the perfect spot to set up camp on the lake.

1. Caffrey Camping Area

This small camping area includes 29 tent and tent-trailer sites in field and wooded settings. Slip docks and gasoline for boats are available. Toilet, shower and laundry facilities are available for registered campers. The hiking trails at the Shuman Point Natural Area are nearby. The area is popular for boating, with good prevailing westerlies for sailboats.

For information, rates and reservations, contact:

Caffrey Director
431 Lakeshore Drive
Lakeville, PA 18438

(570) 226-4608

2. Ironwood Point Camping Area

This area includes sites for 49 tents and trailers, as well as 13 scenic lakefront sites for walk-in camping. Situated on a wooded hill overlooking the lake, the area is close to Burns and Kipp islands and to the Ledgedale Natural Area with its hiking and nature-study opportunities. Toilet, shower and laundry facilities, and a free dumping station for registered campers are available. This area also offers a children’s play area and a picnic pavilion. Gas is available for boats, and when available, boat slips can be rented.

For information, rates and reservations, contact:

Ironwood Point Director
155 Burns Hill Rd.
Greentown, PA 18426

570-857-0880
www.ironwoodpoint.com
Info: ironwood@ptd.net (no reservations by email)

3. Ledgedale Camping Area

This campground, located in a quiet setting at the lake’s southern tip, includes wooded sites for 70 tents and trailers. Slip docks can be rented. Gasoline is available for boats. The site includes a toilet, shower and laundry building, children’s playground, game room and a free dump station for registered campers with self-contained trailers. The campground is adjacent to an 80-acre natural area that offers two miles of hiking trails.

For information, rates and reservations, contact:

Ledgedale Director
153 Ledgedale Road
Greentown, PA 18426

570-689-2181
www.ledgedalerecarea.com
Info: ledgedal@ptd.net (no reservations by email)

4. Wilsonville Camping Area

This area, the largest lakeside campground, includes 160 tent and trailer sites. The campground is just off Route 6. Slip docks are available for rent, and gasoline is available for boats. Flush toilet, shower and laundry facilities, and a free dumping station for registered campers are available. There’s a children’s play area and nearby hiking trails at Shuman Point. In 2010 the Wallenpaupack Lake Trail was completed and passes by the campground, along the shoreline. An adjacent public swimming beach is operated by Palmyra Township, which charges admittance.

For information, rates and reservations, contact:

Wilsonville Director
113 Ammon Drive
Hawley, PA 18428

570-226-4382
www.wilsonvillecampground.com
Info: wrecarea@ptd.net (no reservations by email)

5. Five Mile Point Group Camping Area

Five Mile Point is an additional recreation site for group camping only, reserved for supervised youth organizations. Accommodates two large groups of six to 26 people. Boat in or take a several-hundred-yard walk to lakefront sites. Sheltered picnic tables, hand pump for drinking water, food storage cabinets, fireplaces and toilets. Reservations necessary.

To make reservations or for additional information, contact the Ledgedale director at the address noted below:

Ledgedale Director
153 Ledgedale Road
Greentown, PA 18426

570-689-2181
Info: ledgdal@ptd.net (no reservations by email)

 

For more information on camping, or  Lake Wallenpaupack in general, visit LakeWallenpaupackHydro.com

New Tigé Wakeboard Boats at Lighthouse Harbor Marina

Lighthouse Harbor Marina just got in three brand new Tigé Wakeboard Boats! The 2015 Tigé RZR, Z1, and RZ2 just arrived in the showroom and are ready for you to check out! With eye-catching colors, incredible extras, and top-notch performance, these boats will have everyone on the lake green with envy!

Having just arrived is the 2015 Tigé RZR in tangerine. This boat is loaded to the gills and is powered by the new Indmar Ford Raptor 400 motor. Also included is a custom 2015 Boatmate tandem axle trailer with full spare tire and carrier.

The newly arrived 2015 Tigé Z1 in red is a surf monster! She's powered by the Indmar Ford Raptor 400 series motor. Also included with the boat is a custom 2015 Boatmate tandem axle trailer with swing away tongue, full size spare tire and carrier.

Here she is! The brand new 2015 Tigé RZ2 in blue. The distinct hammerhead bow and Alpha Z tower set this boat apart from anything else that floats. Powering this workhorse is Indmar's Ford Raptor 400 series motor. This inboard v-drive also includes a new custom Boatmate trailer with full spare tire and carrier.

Lighthouse Harbor Marina is located at 969 Route 507 Greentown, Pa 18426 on beautiful Lake Wallenpaupack. For more information, or to set up an appointment to see these amazing boats, call (570) 857-0220 or visit us online at LighthouseHarbor.com

Hyperlite Wakeboard & Wakesurf Clinic at Lighthouse Harbor Marina!

How would you like to try out the latest Hyperlite Wakeboards and Wakesurfs behind the Hyperlite boat right here...at Lighthouse Harbor Marina?  Well, we are hosting a Hyperlite clinic on Saturday, July 18th from 9:00 AM until 12:30 PM right here on Lake Wallenpaupack.

You can sign-up right now...online by clicking the banner above or right HERE!  And after you get some time on the water, be sure to check out the awesome sales in our Watersports Store or online at OnlineWatersports.com.

Hope to see you there!

Featured Boat for July!

Lighthouse Harbor Marina features a different boat each month. This month we are featuring the 2014 Monterey 244 FS Sport Boat. With purchase of the featured boat, you'll receive a FREE slip or winter storage, two custom registration number graphics, one custom boat name graphic, and one coast guard kit (all is a $2,500 value!)

About this month's featured boat: 

Here's the 2014 Monterey 244 FS sport boat. This brand new boat is sapphire blue in color with a blue stand-up Bimini top and bow and cockpit covers. The stainless steel package upgrade, automatic bilge pump, stainless steel ski tow, and battery charger with deck plug are all included with the 244 FS. This beautiful boat also features a stereo upgrade package, a fire extinguishing system, and snap-in woven cockpit flooring for your convenience.

Specifications:

• Length Overall 24'
• Beam 8' 6"
• Horse Power 300 HP
• Fuel Capacity 62 Gal.
• Dry Weight 4300 lbs
• Dead rise 20 Deg.

Visit LighthouseHarbor.com or call us at (570) 857-0220 for more information on the 2014 Monterey 244 FS Sport Boat!

Parasailing on Lake Wallenpaupack

So you've gone hiking around the lake, you've fished the shorelines, you've seen the fireworks and visited the islands. You've done a lot on Lake Wallenpaupack and you've seen every cove. But have you seen the lake from 300 feet in the air?

Parasailing is a popular shore activity, but you don't have to drive to the ocean to have an exhilarating ride above a boat. Instead of parasailing at the shore, where there's only water on one side and city on the other, why not take a parasailing ride above beautiful Lake Wallenpaupack?! Take in the serene country side, the beautiful lake homes, and the peace of Pennsylvania's 3rd largest lake from the sky. Parasailing is safe, easy, and something you won't soon forget!

Visit PoconoActionSports.com for rates, FAQ, and all the information you'll need to plan your parasailing adventure today!

Lake Wallenpaupack Annual Fireworks Display

Lake Wallenpaupack, located in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, is famous for many things, one being the beautiful fireworks display over the lake every year. Shot off from the Wallenpaupack Area High School and hosted by the Chamber of the Northern Poconos, the fireworks display is funded solely by business and individual donations.

Many people come to watch the fireworks from boat but those without that option are welcome to view the show at the Wallenpaupack Area High School, the dike, or Mangan Cove. New traffic patterns have been set up to ensure the safety of everyone coming to view the fireworks display.

The firework display is scheduled for Saturday, July 4th, 2015 with a rain date of Sunday, July 5th. They will start at approximately 9:15pm.

If you would like to make a donation to the fireworks, please send donations to The Chamber, 2512 Route 6, Hawley, PA 18428. For more information and updates, please call the Chamber at 570-226-3191 or visit Lake Wallenpaupack Fireworks Facebook page.

Lighthouse Harbor Marina is proud to be the major sponsor of the Lake Wallenpaupack fireworks for the last 20 years!

 

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Feeding Waterfowl on Lake Wallenpaupack

As you are out and about on Lake Wallenpaupack you’ll probably see some local ducks. Among the many species of wildlife at the lake, ducks are one of the most common and friendly. Many of the ducks on the lake will swim right up to your boat looking for a snack, however, if you share with them you are not doing them any favors.

When wild ducks are fed human food, such as crackers and bread, their organs swell and become fatty. This can cause heart disease and liver issues, along with other health problems. In addition to these complications, poor nutrition is a concern when wild ducks are fed by humans. Being very low in protein, and having additives that wildfowl can’t handle, feeding wild ducks bread causes them to lose out on vital nutrients they need to survive and be healthy.

The natural diet of waterfowl includes aquatic plants, natural grains, and invertebrates which they can find all around the lake. Yet, when they fight each other over food offered by humans they don’t learn the skills needed to forage on their own. Competing against each other can also cause them to be aggressive towards each other, and us.

Not only do we have to worry about the health of the waterfowl, but our health is also at risk when we feed them. Ducks excrete their waste in the same place they eat, which can cause unsafe bacteria levels in the water that we swim and play in.

So keep in mind your health, and the health of the ducks, the next time they come for a snack.

Featured Boats For Sale on Lake Wallenpaupack

Lighthouse Harbor Marina is now introducing featured boats on their website! Currently there are two boats that are featured for a certain period of time. Along with a countdown clock, the featured boat section displays a photo and name of the boat, in addition to what's included for FREE when you purchase a featured boat. Here are the current two featured boats:

2013 Monterey 224 FSX

This brand new 2013 Monterey 224 FSX is a beautiful rio red and onyx. This sport boat features the Monterey wakeboard tower with Bimini, bow and cockpit covers, and SeaDek cockpit inlay. With the convenience and stainless steel package, you cannot go wrong with this 224 FSX. Blast your music with the Sirius Satellite Radio package and upgraded stereo package that includes stereo remotes at helm and stern.

Specifications:

• Length Overall 22' 9"
• Beam 8' 6"
• Horse Power 260 HP
• Fuel Capacity 55 Gal.
• Dry Weight 3500 lbs
• Deadrise 20 Deg.

2013 Monterey 260 SCR

This stunning 2013 Monterey 260 SCR is a special edition onyx/pearl gel coated hull design featuring new Biltmore interior. Powering this boat is the 320 HP Volvo Penta V8 with dual prop. Options in this cruiser include a radar arch with overhead lighting and speakers, a remote controlled spotlight, a prewire for windless anchor, cockpit and full camper enclosures, a solid mahogany wood dining table, monogrammed towels and dining set, LED TV and DVD player. The 260 SCR also has an upgraded stereo with two amps and sub, a woven cockpit floor and interior runners, and a SeaDek swim platform inlay.

Specifications:

• Length Overall 27' 6"
• Beam 8' 6"
• Deck Length 27' 6"
• Dry Weight 7200 lbs
• Fuel Capacity 80 Gal.
• Horse Power 320 HP
• Water Capacity 25 Gal.
• Waste Capacity 21 Gal.

Getting Caught in a Storm While Boating

There's nothing better than laying in the sun on your boat, floating around the lake, and relaxing while fishing; however, not every day is sunny and 75.

With summer comes thunder storms, and they can escalate quickly. Here's a photo of Lake Wallenpaupack that proves how fast things can go from bad to worse on the lake.

 

 

 

 

So what do you do if you're far from the dock and the rain starts coming down?

1. Put on your life jacket. Don't take any chances in a storm. Wearing your life jacket can save your life, especially in unpredictable weather.

2. Take shelter. If you can safely beach your boat and take shelter on land then do so. If you are not close to land then take shelter in the lowest part of the vessel.

3. Do not anchor. Unless there is an immediate threat of drifting ashore, it's best to keep the anchor in the boat.

4. Sit on the floor. Avoid standing or rocking the boat. Stay near the floor. 

5. Drive slowly. If you have to keep moving then slow your pace down and take into account the visibility level.

6. Do not panic. Keeping your calm is extremely important in dangerous weather. Panicking may cause you to make irrational decisions so keep your cool.


The best thing to do is to avoid being caught on the water in a storm in the first place. Make sure you're aware of weather conditions and read the sky. Get off of the water at the first sign of inclement weather. As our photo shows, it can get pretty bad in a matter of minutes.

Memorial Day Weekend Watersports Sale!

Our 25% to 35% Watersports Sale is going on Right Now at the Lighthouse Harbor Marina Ships' Store! Hyperlite, O'Brien and other Watersports equipment marked down to the lowest price of the year through Memorial Day. Stop in this weekend and get your gear for summer season fun.

And if you can't make it out to our store, visit us at OnlineWatersports.com for amazing prices on awesome watersports equipment, accessories, Kayaks, Paddleboards and more!

Memorial Day, and Every Day

Memorial Day 2015 will be observed on Monday, May 25^th. This is not a day for parties or barbeques. This day was not meant for eating and drinking. This does not mean that summer is here or we should take a vacation. This is a day of remembrance. A day to reflect on those who gave their lives so we could enjoy those parties and barbeques and that food and drink. Let’s not forget what we are celebrating on Memorial Day.

History

Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day honors those who have given their lives during service of the United States of America. More than two dozen cities and towns claim they are the birthplace of this day, though Waterloo NY was officially affirmed the origin by President Lyndon Johnson in May of 1966. No matter where it originated, Memorial Day was devised from the Civil War to honor our fallen soldiers.

General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 for Memorial Day to be observed on the 30^th of May, 1868 with the intention of “decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion…” He chose this particular date since it was not the anniversary of any specific battle.

Observance Traditions

In order to observe Memorial Day, the United States flag is raised to the top of the staff, then lowered to half-staff. It will remain in the half-staff position until noon in order to honor the more than one million Americans who gave their lives in service. Then it will be raised again to full-staff for the rest of the day to remember their memory and vow that their sacrifice will not be in vain.

Wearing red poppies, placing flags and flowers on our loved ones’ graves, and visiting our heroes memorials are also observance traditions for Memorial Day.

More Information

Learn more about Memorial Day at USMemorialDay.org 

2015 Boating Regulations Recap Flyer

The 2015 Boating Regulations Recap flyer is available at Lighthouse Harbor Marina on Lake Wallenpaupack, Pa. It is a supplement to the Boating Handbook and contains information every boater must know. The information includes highlights of laws and regulations that affect recreational boaters in Pennsylvania. This short summary is not intended to be a compete listing of all boating regulations. Consult the Pennsylvania Boating Handbook for more detailed information on boating laws and regulations or call the nearest Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission regional law enforcement office. The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission's website is the place to go for a wealth of up-to-date information on Pennsylvania fishing and boating programs. Visit FishAndBoat.com

Rent a Boat from Pocono Action Sports on Lake Wallenpaupack

Pocono Action Sports on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania is now taking reservations for boat rentals for the 2015 summer season! Offering ski boat, pontoon, fishing boat, sailboat, jet ski, paddleboard, and kayak rentals along with parasailing, we have everything you need for a fun filled day on the lake! Our rental season starts this Friday, May 15th! Visit PoconoActionSports.com for rates and availability.

Estimated Water Temperature for Lake Wallenpaupack

Now that spring is here and summer is close, a popular question on everyone's mind is "What is the water temperature for Lake Wallenpaupack?"

As of today, May 1st, 2015, the estimated water temperature is around 46°F. Past weather trends, solar radiation, evaporation, and size and geometry of the lake are factors for determining the estimated water temperature. As we proceed into the month of May the temperature will rise to around 60°F. The estimated water temperature for June is around 65°F, July is around 75°F, August is around 75°F, and September is around 65°F.

For all your boating needs, or to view our LIVE MARINA CAM, visit Lighthouse Harbor Marina.

Hobie Kayaks at Lighthouse Harbor Marina

Lighthouse Harbor Marina is a dealer for Hobie brand paddleboards and now Hobie brand kayaks! New for 2015, we have in stock a variety of kayak styles and accessories. Our newly built kayak display is located in the showroom and ready for you to visit!

Hobie Brand Kayaks are propelled using your legs instead of your arms. The MirageDrive pedal, with Glide Technology, can be adjusted to fit individuals, making kayaking easier than ever before. You can view the kayaks we have in stock online here, or get to know a little more about each kayak here.

View our new Hobie kayak display at Lighthouse Harbor Marina's showroom, 969 Route 507 Greentown, Pa 18426. We are open everyday from 9am-4:30pm.

Earth Day - April 22

"Earth Day is an annual event, celebrated on April 22, on which day events worldwide are held to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It was first celebrated in 1970, and is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network, and celebrated in more than 192 countries each year." -Wikipedia

 

April 22, 1970 was the first Earth Day which stimulated 20 million Americans and is extensively credited with introducing the modern environmental movement. Soon after the first Earth Day, the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts, along with numerous other environmental laws, were passed. Working with over 50,000 partners in 192 countries, the Earth Day Network (EDN) works to expand and activate the environmental movement. At least 1 billion people now partake in Earth Day activities every year, which makes it the leading civic observance on the planet.

EDN’s purpose is to inform and motivate people to ensure a healthy future for themselves and upcoming generations by stimulating green economic policies. EDN delivers civic engagement opportunities locally, nationally, and globally and works to expand the definition of “environment” to embrace issues effecting health, communities, and environment. They do this through creating green jobs, schools, and encouraging the halt of water and air pollution.

 

"Help us mobilize a new generation of Earth activists worldwide!

Every day of the year, Earth Day Network broadens, diversifies and mobilizes the environmental movement around the world. Through Earth Day Network, activists connect, interact with, and have an impact on their communities, creating positive change in local, national and global policies and practices. Your generous donation supports EDN's work with 22,000 organizations in 192 countries on our Earth Day, Green Schools, Billion Acts of Green®, Climate Voters Education and Canopy Project campaigns. Please join us today in making every day Earth Day." -Earth Day Network

Life Jacket Options - OnlineWatersports.com

Now that we are getting into the boating season it's time to start thinking about the right life jacket for you. One of our previous blogs is a great reference on finding a life jacket. Click here to read it!

OnlineWatersports.com has a huge variety of life jackets for everyone in your family from name brand dealers like O'Brien, Hyperlite, and HO Sports. Featuring toddler, teen, women, and men's life jackets, you're going to find the correct size and style to fit everyone in your boat. In Pennsylvania, children 13 years and younger are required by Federal Regulations to wear a life jacket when not in an enclosed cabin or below deck. There must be a wearable life jacket for each person on board your vessel. There are many different types of life jackets depending on your boating activities and OnlineWatersports.com offers them all!

Physically located on Lake Wallenpaupack at 969 Route 507 Greentown, Pa 18426, you can purchase your life jackets in store or online.

Happy Boating!

Spring has Sprung! Plan Your Pocono Summer Vacation Activities!

It's finally starting to feel like spring on Lake Wallenpaupack! The ice is melting off the lake, the birds are chirping, the sun is shining, and we're definitely ready for summer! There are so many things to do in the Poconos during the summer. From hiking and fishing to shopping and dining, you're sure to find something to keep you busy.

One of the most popular activities in the area is boating. With a large selection of marinas, most offering numerous dock slips, there are hundreds of boaters who enjoy beautiful Lake Wallenpaupack. Even if you don't own a boat you can still participate in this exhilarating activity. Offering a variety of boats for rent, such as speed, pontoon, fishing, and sailing boats, along with jet ski rentals, paddleboard and kayak rentals, parasailing, and more, Pocono Action Sports can provide you with an assortment of activities to make your vacation memorable. If you've ever wanted to wakeboard, water-ski, kneeboard, or tube on the lake, this summer is the perfect opportunity. You can rent watersports equipment at Pocono Action Sports, too!

With 52 miles of shoreline, Lake Wallenpaupack has numerous walking and biking trails. Relax while fishing the shoreline, browse locally owned shops around the area, visit the local zoo - Claws N Paws, or go for a horseback ride while on your vacation in the Poconos. There are so many options you're definitely going to want to bring your camera!

Visit PoconoActionSports.com for rates and availability for rentals and parasailing. Visit 800Poconos.com for other activities to plan for your Pocono summer vacation!

Work on Lake Wallenpaupack this Summer!

Would you like to work on beautiful Lake Wallenpaupack?

Do you want a job where you can wear shorts and sneakers?

Lighthouse Harbor Marina is hiring for the summer season!

We are looking for:

• Gas Dock Attendants
• Boat Rentals
• General Maintenance
• Temp. Carpenter to Build Docks

Call (570) 857-0220 or stop by 969 Route 507 Greentown, Pa 18426 to fill out an application today!

Boating Among top 3 Stress Relieving Activities - National Stress Awareness Month

April is National Stress Awareness Month and ranked as one of the top 3 ways to reduce stress is…you guessed it…BOATING!

As mentioned in our blog "Why to be a Boater...", after surveying over 1,000 households, the National Marine Manufacturers Association concluded that boating is one of the top 3 activities that are stress relieving. Relieving stress from your life is very beneficial in that is aids in weight loss, happiness, cancer protection, better sleep, better relationships, a healthier heart, and increased memory.

90% of Americans live less than an hour away from a navigable body of water. With that convenience it’s easy to see why the boating lifestyle is available to the majority of people. Through spending time with loved ones and strengthening bonds, boating is ideal for relaxation, stress relief, and creating lifelong memories. The NMMA survey showed that the most popular boating related activities included relaxing with loved ones (40%), fishing (33%), cruising (14%), and waterskiing (8%). Also concluded from the survey is that 50% of boaters get pleasure in spending time outdoors in nature and 25% expressed they feel it’s a chance to escape from daily life.

The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF) did a study showing anxiety can be lowered by simply being near water.

Weekend road trips and exercise were among the top stress relieving activities as well.

How a Lake Thaws

It’s officially spring and the temperatures are beginning to warm up. With temperatures above freezing, we’re patiently waiting for the ice on Lake Wallenpaupack to thaw so we can get docks and boats ready for the upcoming season and back into the water at Lighthouse Harbor Marina. As previously explained in our “How a Lake Freezes” blog, lakes freeze starting at the top and going down. So it’s no surprise that a lake thaws starting at the bottom and coming up!

Once there is no snow left on the top of the lake, the sun can directly penetrate the ice. Acting like glass in a greenhouse, the ice insulates the water below and allows it to warm up which melts the deepest layers of ice first. As the ice thins to about 4-12 inches it converts into “candles” (long vertical crystals) which conduct light even more. This causes the ice to appear black because it’s not reflecting much sunlight.

The light energy is being transferred to the underlying water which increases its temperature. The crystals break apart as water fills in between them causing more reflection and making the ice appear grayish. This thin layer of ice crystals on the surface of the lake is easily broken up by wind and blown around the lake causing water to reemerge.

The warm temperatures, along with the rain expected today, will help this thawing process and will hopefully melt most of the ice on the lake. Once the lake is thawed out we’re one step closer to summer and boating season!

2014 Tigé RZ2 for sale on Lake Wallenpaupack - LighthouseHarbor.com

2014 Tige RZ2 in black and yellow! Powered by Indmar's 350 HP M57 V-Drive. Edgy yet versatile, the RZ2 epitomizes the Tige experience, producing awe-inspiring wakes and adrenaline-induced smiles. Always up for a challenge, it will provide a never-ending supply of perfect days, epic wakes and legendary memories. Count on it.

This boat has the Convex VX surf system and surf Ballast package. It is loaded with options and includes a custom, matching Boatmate trailer. For more information, call or stop by Lighthouse Harbor Marina! (570) 857-0220 969 Route 507 Greentown, Pa 18426.

Specifications:

• Length Overall 22'
• Beam 8' 6"
• Fuel Capacity 48 Gal.
• Weight 4150 lbs
• Seating Capacity 15

Tigé - lighthouseharbor.com/tige-boats.html

"Tige Boats launched in 1991 placing innovation and passion at the heart of our boats. Since our beginning, we have remained a family owned business placing relationships with our owners, dealer network and vendors as a priority.

Today, Tige keeps these values alive with one common goal in mind—to make your ride better than anything else on the water. Through a refined sense of aesthetics, precision manufacturing, and a love for watersports, we have set new standards in boat design and engineering. By personally engaging with and using our own products, we have introduced many innovative technologies and industry firsts, each one created to make your time behind the wheel or on your board as perfect as possible.

From the new ASR to the highly-acclaimed Z3 and throughout the entire 2015 lineup, Tige produces the most technologically advanced product line specializing in massive wakeboarding wakes and ocean-worthy wakesurf waves. The all-new Touch2 interface, Surf Link remote, patented ConvexV hull, and TAPS2 technology are just some of the features that make Tige unlike anything else on the water." - Tigé

You can find these amazing boats at Lighthouse Harbor Marina on Lake Wallenpauack.

Ice Safety Thickness

With the extremely cold temperatures, Lake Wallenpaupack had over 20 inches of ice in some parts this winter. Since spring is a week away and temperatures are quickly warming up, keep in mind that the ice will start to melt fast and is never 100% safe so it's vital you take precautions when going out. Here are some things to remember:

In case of an emergency, always pack extra, warm clothing and a blanket. An ice pick also may help you get out of the water if you fall through. Never go out on the ice without telling someone else when and where you’ll be out.

If you’re going on ice that you are unfamiliar with, ask the locals about dangerous spots. Never assume the thickness of the ice is uniform over the whole body of water. Some spots may be weaker than others.

There are many things you can observe to guess if the ice is safe for your activities. The color and texture of the ice, the snow coverage on top of the ice, the depth and width of the body of water you’re on, and the recent temperatures are all factors to take into consideration. Different ice colors may indicate different types and thickness of ice. For instance, light gray to dark black may mean the ice is melting, white to opaque may show that water-saturated snow froze over the ice which formed another thin layer and probably is unsafe, and blue to clear ice indicates the ice has a high density and may be the safest. However, don’t rely on the color of the ice alone.

Different ice thickness determines the activities that may be safe. Ice that is 3 inches or less is never safe and ice that is 11 inches may be safe enough to hold a truck’s weight. The chart below gives an idea of proper ice thickness based on activity.