Cruiser's Net

In his retirement, Roy Eaton has found great meaning in a second career on the radio - VHF, that is. Roy is the voice of the Little Current Cruisers' Net - a daily broadcast he runs every morning through the summer. He share news, marine weather, and messages for boaters in the North Channel of Georgian Bay. And it's not just a fun hobby - it's a public service.

If you find yourself anywhere in the North Channel during July and August, turn to Channel 71 on your VHF and wait for that professionally-delivered announcement, "It's 9 a.m. Welcome boaters, to the Little Current Yacht Club's Cruisers' Net."

Roy starts off each broadcast by asking if there are any emergencies. There have been a few and Roy has successfully supplied those in need with the necessary information and support systems. The Thunder Bay Coast Guard and the Trenton Air, Search and Rescue Team have Roy's name on their files in case they need that VHF 71 assistance. After the 20 minute broadcast, Roy invites all the yachters to call in and give their boat's name and current location. It's also a time to get questions answered and inform other boaters of special news and events. This has helped to create a real sense of fellowship as boaters get to know their fellow companions on the North Channel and the names of each other's boats. So much so, that many of these boaters, when docked in Little Current, came to offer their assistance during Roy's broadcast and then stayed to mix and mingle.

Roy can't be present every day and he thanks those volunteers who so kindly replace him during an absence. With everyone pitching in, in thirteen seasons only two days have been missed and both of these days were missed due to technical problems.

You may contact Roy via email at:

Very pleased to have the crew of S/V Endorphin drop in to the Cruisers Net this morning. For those who listen to the morning callins, the voices you hear are those of Nate and Ivy. It was my privilege to congratulate the newest graduate in the family - Madelyn.

It’s always nice to have boaters drop in to help record calls, chat and bring reports on their travels. Today Thor and Debbie Powell of MARINER’S CAT, Keith and Michelle Holtze of CATNIP and Gary Holtze of Slo’M ocean took part. The Anchor Inn has free WiFi so when the reception is poor at the town docks, it’s a good opportunity to connect.

Roy Eaton in his new broadcasting space at the Anchor Inn.

On Monday July 1st, Roy returned for his first broadcast of 2019. What a special event as 2019 is the 15th anniversary of the Cruisers' Net. On Friday, July 5th, Roy held a special event at the Anchor Inn to honour the many people who have supported the Cruisers' Net over the 15 years!

Roy thanked Carol Hughes, our awesome Member of Parliament, for making time in her busy schedule to come to the 15th Anniversary Party. He also thanked her for her kind words and certificates from herself and another great friend and supporter of the Cruisers' Net, our Member of Provincial Parliament, Michael Mantha.

Congratulations to Roy Eaton on receiving the Governor General's Sovereign's Medal for Volunteer. Roy received the award for the countless hours he has given to the Little Current Cruiser's Net, as well as the many other organizations & events he has generously volunteered.There is no doubt that volunteers are an integral part of great communities and Roy is a true pillar of the community because of his generosity, his dedication and his ability to inspire others.