How we found our dream boat (Ranger Tug R-23)
The Search
We ordered our Ranger Tug R-23 on June 20, 2020 after visiting Edgewater Yacht Sales (ModernTugs.com) in Pensacola, Florida. We had first met Emile Petro at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) in 2016, where we sought out Ranger Tugs after seeing them on Ship Shape TV.
Even though we said that we were just dreaming at that point, he spent time with us on several different models, and we left the show (after looking at several cruisers from several manufacturers) loving the unique functionality and styling that Ranger Tugs had to offer.
After visiting several boat shows over several years on weekend getaways, we never saw a boat we loved more than a Ranger Tug. Sure, we found some that “would work”, but none that were love at first sight like the Ranger Tugs.
After a test ride at Edgewater Yacht Sales, we knew it was time to place the order for our dream boat. Emile walked us through the process, and we selected the options we wanted. They were:
- Color: Ranger Gray
- Aft Cockpit Sunshade with Sunset Shade
- Air Conditioning
- Anchor Package
- Autopilot
- Bow Thruster
- Inverter
- Macerator Discharge
- Safety Kit
- Solar Panel
- Transom Platform Rails
- Underwater Lights
- Windlass with Bow and Helm Controls
Delivery
Additional Information
After five long months, including a few delays, our dream boat, a Ranger Tug R-23, shipped on November 11, 2020. Our plan from the start was to trailer her to the coast and then cruise to destinations north and south.
The Name
Elvin Ray
We contemplated names for our dream boat for some time. Early on, Dave had suggested the middle names of our fathers, both of whom left this earth much too soon. In the end, we came back to that idea. It‘s a tribute to two fine, Godly men who loved their wives and children. Both also bravely battled severe medical conditions for several years.
