Rick and Lori Hawkins, a couple from Camano Island, Washington, have found their version of paradise on the deck of a 32-foot North River Endurance. With years of boating experience and a shared love for the water, their journey led them to a vessel that perfectly matches their lifestyle and vision for retirement.
“We’re from Camano Island, Washington, and we’re on the 32-foot North River Endurance,” Rick says with a proud smile. Lori adds, “This is our boat, and we love it.”
The Hawkins have long been fans of North River boats. In fact, their journey started back in 2010 when they purchased a 26-foot North River Offshore. That boat served them faithfully for 14 years without a single issue. But when it came time to upgrade, they had a very specific vision in mind.
“We looked at several different manufacturers,” Rick shares, “but we kept going back to the North River. The Endurance really caught my eye when it first came out—a beautiful design with a high bow that checked all the boxes for us.”
Those boxes included more space, better deck layout, and increased comfort for extended time on the water. For this couple, boating isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. They fish together, explore together, and now, with the Endurance, they plan to enjoy retirement together in a boat that feels like home.
“We knew we’d be out a lot fishing,” Lori explains. “So we wanted a larger cabin, more comfortable sleeping, and even a shower on board.”
But it wasn’t just love at first sight. Their decision was rooted in trust and experience. Rick and Lori took the time to tour the North River factory during the construction of their boat and were impressed by the craftsmanship and attention to detail.
“You could see the work that went into it. North River truly has some very talented craftsmen,” Rick notes. “When you’re out on the saltwater or offshore, the weather can change quickly. You need a boat that can get you back safely.”
With retirement on the horizon, they took the leap and made an investment in their shared passion. Lori, Rick’s fishing partner and wife, couldn’t be more thrilled.
“We feel fortunate to have some choices in retirement, and boating is both of our first love and passion,” says Lori. “It just made sense for us to get the North River that gives us the space and comfort to enjoy retirement.”
Their purchase experience was also enhanced by working with Jesse at Clemens Marina in Troutdale. After seeing an advertisement for the Endurance, Rick visited the dealership’s impressive indoor showroom, which he says was like walking into a boat show.
“Jesse was incredibly knowledgeable about the boats,” Rick says. “We even got to do a test ride on the Columbia River. That pretty much sold us.”
Now, every time they’re out on the water with family and friends, the Hawkins know they made the right choice.
“Life on a North River is our best life,” Lori smiles. “We’re living our best lives—and we feel very fortunate to do it with the people we love, on a boat we believe in.”