The Naiad hangs out in the Washburn Marina on Chequamegon Bay, Lake Superior. In 1998 she was moored on the St. Croix river at Hudson, Wisconsin.

I chose the Nomad in preference to various other boats for several reasons:

1. Shallow draft of 2' 3". This is important for river navigation, and also allows the Nomad to dock at the various docks in the Apostle Islands, where the depth is usually less than four feet.
2. Ability to take ground without damage (important for river navigation).
3. Safely trailerable with a Mini-van or SUV, and launchable from the trailer without a sling or crane;
4. Capable of Great Lakes sailing;
5. sleeping room for four persons;
6. Royal Doulton marine head;
7. High-quality construction.

It should be apparent that there are not many craft around that satisfy all these requirements. The Nomad's fine construction and excellent state of preservation also contributed in the choice. The fine state of preservation results partly from the boat's having seen little use, and partly from such use having occurred on Lake Superior (in cold and relatively sterile water) or the St. Croix.