Fresh catch in Fishtown

Renovated harbor-marina complex opens in Leland

Boaters looking for a scenic port-of-call can venture to Leland, one of Michigan’s most popular recreational destinations, where a refurbished harbor complex and full-service marina will open for the 2010 season.

Home of historic Fishtown, the $3 million Leland Township Harbor project was a collaboration between the Michigan Waterways Commission and Leland Township. It features floating docks with utility pedestals, 22 additional slips (bringing Leland’s slip total to 71, the largest of which will accommodate more than 100-foot vessels) as well as a boaters’ building and a new parking lot.

The former 1960s vintage facility has been replaced with a unique two-story building in the architectural style of 1890s Northern Michigan. Inside are eight new showers, restrooms, a new harbor office, laundry facilities, an expansive boaters’ lounge, and a spacious covered patio overlooking the harbor.

Cris Telard, a Leland Harbor Commissioner, said he’s thrilled with the upgrades. “We told our architects we wanted to provide boaters with a facility that had all the modern conveniences, but looked as though it had been here since the earliest fishing shanties were built,” Telard said. “It was a long time coming, but well worth it.”

For more information on the region, visit www.leelanauchamber.com.

Michigan Boating 2010 » Fresh Catch in Fishtown