Catch the rich glow of varnished mahogany in the morning sunlight, notice the sleek, simple lines, and – if you score an invitation – step into a wooden boat for an up-close experience, and very ...

On a recent trip to Boyne City, Michigan, I had a chance to tour the factory of Van Dam Custom Boats, and to take rides in a pair of previously owned lake boats that were available for sale. I left ...