Editor’s Note

Welcome to the inaugural issue of Inland Boater Magazine, a quarterly publication devoted to exploring the lifestyle and culture of boaters on America’s inland waterways.

The launch of Inland Boater and the online community at http://www.inlandboater.com represents the beginning of a journey to highlight the best destinations – the best hotels, eating establishments, shopping and cultural events – and the latest trends and industry developments that reflect the inland boating way of life.

This issue’s cover story looks at the post-Katrina rejuvenation of New Orleans’ recreational boating community, featuring photographs by National Geographic photographer Tyrone Turner. Turner is from New Orleans and his familiarity is evident in his ability to capture those special moments and views that others may not know exist.

Closer to home in the Chesapeake Bay area, the magazine features the historic town of St. Michaels, a popular port of call for boaters on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, with its marinas, inns, shops and restaurants. Another high point is the story of one woman’s initial experience at the helm of the family’s new 41-foot Maxum.

As we start this journey as a boating lifestyle magazine and online community, we look forward to fulfilling our mission of exploring the culture and class of a unique, exacting and progressive mix of readers who travel the nation’s waterways. We hope Inland Boater helps to make the 2008 boating season more pleasurable.

And we hope to see you on the water.

Jeff Hardy