The Inaugural MOKAI River Rally:
St Lawrence River
Waddington, NY
August 7-9, 2009
We accepted the invitation from Mike and Cindy, MOKAI owners since February 2009, and began preparation for the Inaugural MOKAI River Rally!
Our base camp was their waterfront property located on a tributary brook to the St. Lawrence River. 
In addition to Mike and Cindy’s family, we were joined by Alex and Carol, owners since 2006 hailing from Laval Canada, Mike and Nadine, owners since 2008 from Broadalbin, NY as well as members of the MOKAI staff and their families. Our regatta consisted of 11 boats with “captains” from 7-65.
These customers were “old friends” to the MOKAI staff as each had visited our facility in Newburgh. As we gathered around the camp fire, stories of adventures, tricks and the customization of each owner filled the air..
Mike and Cindy were quick to share what they had done to their MOKAI’s. Mike’s eyesight has been compromised so his customization related to optimizing the boat for his visual impairment. In addition, cargo netting attached to the deck allows for easy storage and quick retrieval of their gear. They were planning a trip to the Rideau Canal in Canada, a series of 31 locks, a 120 mile journey a few weeks after our Rally.
Mike and his wife Nadine’s boat was quickly coined the Bat-Boat. Mike has equipped his MOKAI with a windshield from a snow mobile. In addition, he constructed a removable dash-board type deck at the forward section of the cockpit opening. As an avid photographer his inexpensive windshield customization allows for protection of his gear while slicing through the water!
Alex and Carol quickly drew attention with their trailer. Custom designed by Alex, there is a separate storage box to place the engines during transport. The diamond plate deck completed the sleek, clean design.
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The MOKAI staff, including President, Rick Murray, were on hand to answer any questions, comments or concerns, in addition to having a little fun. We enjoyed hearing about the adventures our customers have had since purchasing their MOKAI’s! |
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Our first day involved a 30 mile tour of the St. Lawrence River, including a quick jaunt to the Canadian side – no passports required. Later that night we enjoyed a Firework display from our MOKAI’s courtesy of the Waddington Homecoming event taking place in town. Then back to the campfire for more serious MOKAI talks! Day two allowed us to further explore the area and the feeding tributaries to the St. Lawrence with a trip to Coles Creek.