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boatingbusiness.com

APRIL 2021

Washington Post 6 | Person Behind the Face 6 | Business Matters 12 | Marketing 18 | People 29

CORNISH BOATBUILDER BUYS ADDITIONAL SITE

NEWS

Nylon shortage Prosecution Sustainable hulls pages 1-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Around 50 skilled jobs could be created with the acquisition of The South West Shipyard by Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding. The purchase of the freehold of the waterside site at Ponsharden, between Falmouth and Penryn in Cornwall, will enable the company to meet demand for its Duchy motor launches and Hardy motor yachts. The shipyard comprises two large sheds that equate to 25,000sq ft of undercover space, a quay and a slipway. The acquisition has been 100% funded by Cockwells and its shareholders. “We are proud to create a fantastic new resource for marine manufacturing, adjacent to the Penryn River, which will provide more highly-skilled jobs for local people,” explained Cockwells founder and MD, Dave Cockwell. “With the expansion of our Duchy Motor Launches to include 45ft and 60ft models, our recent acquisition of the

8 Cockwells is expanding with the acquisition of an additional waterside site in Cornwall

Hardy brand of motor yachts that range from 32ft to 65ft, and a very strong forward order book, we need more space than our purpose-built HQ at the Mylor Creek Boatyard will allow. “The South West Shipyard will provide us with additional capacity so that we can build more of these larger vessels.” And he explained that Cockwells intends to maximise its boat-lifting facilities and provide slipway and boatyard services for local fishermen and other small commercial craft. A dedicated training bay for the boatbuilder's apprentices is also part of the plan. Cockwells has invited existing marine sector tenants at the site to renegotiate their leases. The site will be refurbished within the next 12 months to provide a customised site.

Rockley opens new outdoors activity centre Watersports training firm, Rockley, has opened a new activity centre in Dorset offering children a range of outdoors adventures to build confidence and develop key life skills. Rockley will be operating Buddens Activity Centre together with Dorset County Scouts, offering day and residential trips to scouting groups and schoolchildren. There will also be camping and glamping for families and small groups. “In what has been a difficult year for everyone, it is so important that we make the most of the outdoors and continue to offer young people exciting outdoor experiences and activities that will develop confidence, encourage teamwork, highlight leadership qualities and help develop key life skills,” said schools and groups manager Jack Clark. The new centre, based on 96 acres of land in The Isle of

Purbeck, joins Rockley's two watersports centres in Poole and three activity centres in the south west of France. Traditionally the company has focused on water-based activities but Buddens will oﬀer new opportunities. “The centre is already fully equipped to provide activities including climbing, archery, rifle shooting, high ropes, zip-wire, tomahawk throwing and den building and with the provision of a small lake, we can continue to oﬀer some water-based activities including kayaking and stand up paddle boarding,” said Jack. Rockley's owner, Peter Gordon said that the company was passionate about providing high-quality outdoor experiences. “This new centre now allows us to reach even more people, including those within the scouting community,” he said.

More powerful Demand up Mismatches rectified pages 13-19

FITTING OUT: EXTERIOR

New gangway Safety boosted Investment pages 22-27

PROFILE

Will Taylor-Jones Fox’s Marina and Boatyard MD page 28

NEWS

VIEWPOINT CLAMCLEATS WARNS OF KATINA READ | Editor GLOBAL NYLON SHORTAGE End of life boats challenge

With companies looking to produce ‘greener’ and more eco-friendly products, there now needs to be an emphasis on what happens to boats when they reach the end of their lives. We’ve all seen abandoned boats as we drive around Britain’s country roads – usually boats left in farmers’ barns, fields, gateways or even people’s gardens. It’s a problem that doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon and with the surge in boating that we’ve seen during the present Covid pandemic, it’s one that will continue to raise its head for years to come. National campaigns have raised the awareness of plastics and the damage they can do to our environment. Now the European Commission has started to take a closer look at end of life vessels and the circular economy and it’s important that the entire UK boating industry engages in the discussion. To this end, as part of an Environmental Roadmap project, British Marine has set up an industry working group to look at the challenge of disposing of these end of life vessels and is looking for interested companies to join in. The aim of the working group is to bring together a number of diﬀerent stakeholders within the marine sector to look at how the industry can start to identify the causes of vessel abandonment; the challenges owners face in disposal and what boatbuilders can do to support the transition to a more circular product life. France is several years’ ahead of the UK when it comes to managing this problem. APER, a non-profit organisation was created by the French Nautical Industries Federation with one of its aims to meet current and future environmental conditions. Now, apparently around 750 pleasure boats are being recycled a year with individuals able to have their old boat deconstructed for free via the Association for Eco-Responsible Boating. The scheme is funded by an eco-contribution paid by a tax based on the size and type of boat paid by the issuers onto the market – the only charge to the last owner is transport to a recycling centre. And the recycling companies involved say around 90% of the materials involved can be recycled leaving only a small amount needing to go to landfill. The only problem, they say is that not enough people know about the scheme. While 750 boats is a start, it’s estimated many thousands are sitting rotting away. In my home port in the South West, a 70ft schooner at the end of its life has capsized and sunk no less than three times this year alone, causing litter and fuel to be released into the water. One has to wonder if such a scheme existed in the UK if this would have happened. Maybe a scheme can be set up sooner rather than later before too many more boats pollute our watery playground.

2 | APRIL 2021

Clamcleats has warned customers that supplies of nylon-based materials are under threat as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and diﬃculties with trade following the UK's exit from the European Union. Stock levels are not yet critical but concerns are mounting within the industry. Boating Business spoke to Paul Botterill, who has recently joined Clamcleats as marketing and business development manager. “There is a problem with ABS, nylon and some nylon blend raw materials,” said Paul. “This was primarily caused by the slump in the oil price during the first Covid outbreak around the world,” he continued. Paul said that the company holds good stocks of raw materials but warns that other manufacturers may face problems if their stocks are less plentiful. “Raw material distributors stocks are very limited with many nylon brands stating 'Force Majeure',” said Paul. Whilst he does not expect this to overly impact customers they might still feel the eﬀect through price

Photo: Clamcleats

kread@boatingbusiness.com

rises or reduced product choice. To mitigate this the company is relying on alternative materials and tailoring production to make stocks last. “We have extremely good raw aluminium stocks levels and are advising our customer if at all possible, to plan to use the aluminium version of cleat instead in the short term,” Paul told Boating Business. Nylon may not be the only material to face problems. Paul said he had

8 Paul Botterill has recently joined Clamcleats as marketing and business development manager

from other manufacturers that supplies of other oil-based materials such as fabrics, metals and oils might also be under threat. “We can manufacture everything here in the UK so we are very lucky as there are huge backlogs for products and materials being shipped around the world,” he concluded.

LOCKDOWN TOILET PAPER VENTURE CLEANS UP An environmentally friendly toilet paper business rolled out since lockdown hit is set to reach £1 million in sales in its first year. Tanki was founded by Matt O'Crowley, a former deck oﬃcer with the Merchant Navy who switched career after discovering he was ineligible for the government's Covid-19 furlough scheme. The awardwinning paper is both glue and plastic-free and is aimed at the domestic, maritime and leisure markets. "One day my loo blocked, and I suddenly remembered all the places in the world

where a paper bin sits next to the lavatory due to the sewerage systems not being able to cope,” explained Matt. "This led to thoughts about how the same problem exists on ships, yachts, caravans and houses with wonky plumbing... and Tanki was born." Eco credentials Tanki is created using virgin pulp, a by-product of timber grown for housing and its supply chain and manufacturing facility is both BRC Grade A rated and recognised by the

FSC. Designed to comply with maritime pollution regulations, it can even be safely flushed into the Arctic Ocean. With private backers and a £20,000 start-up loan from the 'Biz Britain' scheme, Tanki already has 1,000 direct customers and has signed with caravan park supplier, Nova Leisure and marine leisure industry suppliers Aquafax and Midland Chandlers. “Now, the intention is to have Tanki in every boat, caravan, farmhouse and oﬀ grid home in the UK,” said Matt.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

NEWS Boat Tech Srl has taken legal action against H. Taylor and Sons (Brockley) Ltd, trading as RS Sailing, claiming an unlawful breach of its distribution agreement. In a statement, Aldo Rinaldi, CEO of Boat Tech, says the agreement was terminated in February 2021 after 15 years working together. Aldo claims his company had an exclusive agreement to distribute RS sailing dinghies in Italy, however RS entered into a new distribution contract with Negrinautica Srl in September 2020. The latter has also been sued, with Boat Tech citing unfair competition. The court of Milan has been asked to prohibit the sale of RS Sailing boats by parties other than Boat Tech. Aldo points out that RS Sailing imposes UK jurisdiction on its distributors, however where the market is seriously

LEGAL ACTION AGAINST RS SAILING

Improvements The Canal & River Trust has begun work on a £1.6m programme of improvements to Earlswood Lakes in the West Midlands.

Expectations

violated - as he claims in this instance - he is bringing his case before the Italian justice system which does not allow the exclusive

protection of Italian SMEs to be delegated abroad. In his statement, Aldo claims Boat Tech has distributed RS sailing

8 Boat Tech Srl is claiming RS Sailing breached its distribution agreement

dinghies with 'diligence and professionalism'.

Configurations A three-stage development process is underway with the first step being experiments on diﬀerent wire coil configurations and evaluating their performance characteristics. The second stage is a feasibility study to determine the requirements of impedance matching networks for the new system. The final stage is identifying procurement costs for the key components, to enable an estimate production costs to be worked out when it is manufactured at scale. Part funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Marine-i aims to help the marine technology sector in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly grow by harnessing research and innovation.

Highfield Boats has exceeded sales expectations despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. At the end of March last year, the picture was bleak with EU orders on hold and the company shut because of lockdown. By the end of the year, however, thanks to a boost to the leisure marine industry once restrictions started to ease, the company had managed to deliver 4,800 boats worldwide.

Exclusive IMS (Industrial Marine Silencers) has appointed Halyard (M&I) as its exclusive distributor for the marine market. The agreement follows a longstanding relationship between the companies that have worked together pairing IMS products with Halyard exhaust systems solutions. Aftersales support will be provided by Halyard and its UK and overseas distributor and dealer network.

WIRELESS CHARGING FOR ELECTRIC VESSELS? Wireless charging using VHF frequencies for vessels could soon be a reality due to works carried out by the Perpetual Research Consultancy. The consultancy has been supported by Marine-i to develop an advanced charging system for electric vessels. “Wireless charging is already employed for electric vessels, whether they are crewed, remotely operated or fully autonomous,” explained director of Perpetual Research Consultancy, Dr Mike Taylor. “We believe that this technology could be greatly improved by devising a way of using VHF frequencies for wireless charging. This would deliver order of magnitude increases in power transfer, and lead to vastly reduced charging times.”

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For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

Exceeded savvy navvy, makers of a simple navigation app, has exceeded its crowdfunding target just a few hours after opening the door to investors. The company is founded by ex-Google software engineer Jelte Liebrand who developed the app after becoming frustrated with outdated and cumbersome navigation technology.

APRIL 2021 | 3

NEWS

Presentations SMG’s virtual Meet the Manufacturer event had 351 attendees registered and experiencing five days of presentations provided by 19 suppliers. Webinar content provided exposure to new products, technical data and Q&A sessions which allowed SMG trade customers to interact directly with the manufacturer to source any information they required. Following feedback received after the event, SMG will now look to provide a more regular ‘live’ webinar service to its trade customers.

Reduction Clean Planet Energy has developed two new fuels made from non-recyclable plastic waste to help reduce the marine industry’s reliance on fossil fuels. The ultra-clean fuels are suitable for use in any ship or vessel and can reduce CO2 emissions by more than 75%.

OYSTER EXPANDS INTO NEW BASE Oyster Yachts is to expand into an additional 27,000sq ft facility based at the Hythe Marine Park, Southampton. The new facilities will be used for the building of the new Oyster 495 yacht. “With several Oyster 495s already sold, investment in this dedicated production facility fits seamlessly with our growth strategy,” said Oyster owner and CEO Richard Hadida. “We have great plans for Hythe Marine Park, this location is already a centre of excellence for boat building, and it is the ideal location for our expansion of Oyster.” The expansion will see Oyster Yachts increasing its existing facilities by 70%, and to accommodate the expansion, the boatbuilder will increase its south coast workforce by a further 70 employees. The move into the new premises is being overseen by Oyster's newly appointed chief operations oﬃcer, Peter Hamlyn. “The Hythe facility will allow us to exploit production of the

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495 in innovative new ways, combining new technology to complement our industry leading quality and hand finished craftmanship which Oyster is world renown,” he said. “This commitment is a huge boost for the local boat building community which will see further investment and job opportunities from a world

class boatbuilder like Oyster Yachts.” The expansion follows on from growth at Oyster's manufacturing facilities in Wroxham, and the creation of a specialist technology centre in Ashmanhaugh, both in Norfolk. The new base is known locally as the Admiralty Shed or the Flying Boat Hangar, and produced sea planes for World

8 Oyster Yachts is to expand its boatbuilding facilities by 70%

War 1, before becoming a key facility for Vickers Supermarine and later the maintenance base for the pioneering Empire flying boats. More recently it saw the production of the test boats for the 2017 America's Cup campaign and Alex Thompson's 2020 Vendee Globe racing yacht.

BOAT TRAILER COMPANY PROSECUTED Almost 100 illegal boat trailers are being recalled following a prosecution by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Admiral Trailers Ltd, based in Devon, pleaded guilty to a prosecution brought by DVSA following the sale of trailers that were not type approved for use on UK roads. In addition to a criminal conviction, fines and costs totalling £2,540, the company is now recalling the trailers to make sure they are safe.

The conviction follows an investigation by DVSA's Market Surveillance Unit. The case applied to 35 non- type approved trailers sold between July 2020 to October 2020. “DVSAs priority is to protect everyone from dangerous vehicles and non-type approved trailers pose a serious risk to the public,” said DVSA's market surveillance investigator, Sophia Mir. “The defendant has years of experience in the trailer industry and was very aware of IVA and the

need for approval of the trailers but continued to supply them unlawfully.” And she said the company continued to sell the trailers for a considerable amount of time after learning that they were doing so illegally, supplying a total of 92 trailers for road use between January and October 2020 without the necessary Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA). The trailers sold belong to the classes '01' (up to 750kg) and ‘02’ (750kg to 3500kg).

03/06/2020 09:08

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

NEWS Seas Of Solutions B.V has acquired Orolia's Maritime safety business, excluding fleet management solutions. The brands involved - that specialise in emergency response equipment such as EPIRBs, personal locator beacons and voyage data recorders are Netwave, McMurdo and Kannad Marine. The company will retain all associated Orolia Maritime staﬀ under their current terms and conditions and the European OEMs and global distribution network will remain. The service and support network and product warranty terms will also be unchanged. The newly-formed Netherlands headquartered Seas Of Solutions is led by owner Paul Smulders, the former chief executive of Netwave and Radio Holland. “Seas Of Solutions is proud to continue the 150 years of combined

OROLIA MARITIME'S SAFETY SECTOR SOLD tradition and experience behind McMurdo, Netwave and Kannad Marine,” he said. “Product owners, new customers and everyone connected with the brands, will be pleased to know that it is business as usual.” He added: “I am very excited by the acquisition, as it allows us to focus on developing, manufacturing and selling emergency beacons and VDR 'black boxes' for the marine sector.” Among key products in the ranges being acquired by Seas Of Solutions is FastFind Return Link, an RLS Enabled Distress Beacon. Seas Of Solutions has a UK oﬃce in Portsmouth.

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For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

The RYA has called on the carriage of flares by recreational boaters to be discontinued. The call is part of the RYA's response to an open consultation to the Department of Transport on future arrangements for the disposal of marine pyrotechnics. The MCA currently oﬀers a ‘last-resort’ service of receiving out-of-date flares at 18 designated and licensed sites across the country. The service was initially oﬀered as a temporary solution and the consultation was held by DfT with the aim of finding a practical alternative.

The Rothen Group (TRG) has been awarded a ‘Carbon Neutral Plus’ accolade from Carbon Footprint for its commitment to addressing environmental issues. To be awarded Carbon Neutral Plus status, TRG exceeded oﬀsetting the carbon it produces by 10%, meaning that TRG is at a carbon deficit.

8 Orolia Maritime's safety business has been acquired by Seas Of Solutions

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Consultation on putting international rules designed to protect polar regions and those that sail on them into UK law has begun. The rules, known as the Polar Code, cover safetyrelated requirements including ship design, construction and equipment as well as the protection of the eco-systems of the polar regions. The Code has been developed by the International Maritime Organisation with input from the UK.

APRIL 2021 | 5

NEWS

JIM NOLAN James Nolan Associates Discover Boating is a national customerfocused initiative developed by the North American recreational boating industry to help get people on the water. In an announcement made by the NMMA at the beginning of March, Discover Boating is about to become the new focal point for our industry. Why? As an essential part of the NMMA's longterm strategic vision that recreational boating becomes the #1 leisure activity in North America. To better unite the industry, the NMMA's strategic plan calls for the industry's consumer marketing campaign and NMMA boat and sport shows to align under one brand— Discover Boating, an initiative that will begin to take shape early 2022. The NMMA and the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) strategic partnership ensures both associations are powering Discover Boating. Discover Boating has built substantial brand equity, resulting in tremendous organic web traﬃc, social media engagement, and PR value, as evidenced by the results last year. At the same time, NMMA's 14 boat shows have strong equity of their own and attract as many as 500,000 attendees each year. Discover Boating is about connecting consumers seamlessly with boating - from products and educational resources to lifestyle content, experiences, news, and a valuable community. 6 | APRIL 2021

New models Supporting the plan to re-establish Fairline as the go-to brand for this size of yacht, the company continued to develop new models, launching the Targa 43 Open (now renamed the 45) and the Targa 58, due to launch in early

FAIRLINE FOCUSES ON KEY 30 TO 70ft MARKET

Photo: Fairline

WASHINGTON POST

Fairline Yachts has released its financial results and strategic report for 2019 showing a gross loss of £11.7 million and a shift in focus. During the first half of the year the company continued to invest in its Fairline Marine Park in Hampshire with a view to building larger yachts in the 70 - 100ft sector. However, this ambition was scuppered by the challenges of supporting two production sites and hiring new staﬀ and the company has instead shifted its focus back to its core range of 30 - 70ft yachts.

2020 but delayed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Fairline has also

invested in new models through its Fairline Yachts Design Studio, securing advanced sales for

THEPERSONBEHINDTHEFACE Malcolm Stewart

How I got into this industry... First job oﬀer after university was from French insurance company Groupama. That led to a job in broking and then I was given my first best bit of advice which led to commercial marine insurance. Best advice I’ve ever received... Work in an industry you are passionate about and also learn to iron a shirt properly. One thing the industry needs less of is... People of my generation. I would like to see the industry focusing on

getting the next generation engaged. We should be in the universities, schools, colleges and developing pathways to connect young people with the marine industry. There are too many businesses with no succession plan and a whole generation who have never heard that there are amazing careers in the marine world. Most hated buzzword or workplace expression... Blue sky thinking. Best place I’ve been... That's a big question... probably Tokyo as it's a glorious culture shock. Don't worry about... Things you can't control.

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Favourite meal... Anything Italian. One thing I couldn’t live without... A pencil. How I cope with stress... Sailing in the summer and walking in the mountains during the winter with our dogs. Something about you that people might be surprised by... Most people are surprised that I am from Dundee. My school was the inspiration for Beano Comic's Bash St Kids.

Malcolm Stewart is branch manager at A-Plan Commercial Marine

8 The F-LINE 33, one of a number of new models launched in 2019

the F-LINE 33 and Squadron 68, both developed in collaboration with Italian yacht designer, Alberto Mancini. Covid and Brexit Post 2019 has been dominated by the Covid-19 pandemic and Brexit. Mindful of changing customer behaviours and accelerated by the pandemic, 2020 saw the launch of two new digital sales innovations - the F-LINE 33 configurator and the Fairline Marina. Whilst the company was able to stay open during the various lockdowns, production was aﬀected and around 300 employees were furloughed last spring. Brexit remains a concern for the company, with the eﬀect on key suppliers being monitored and managed to ensure minimal disruption to supply chains.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

Quality reflects quality Perfection Pro takes the consistently high performance that you’ve come to expect from the Perfection label, and raised it to the next level. Formulated for easy application, Perfection Pro gives a high-gloss mirror-like finish, perfect for any boat and any substrate. Perfection Pro’s extensive colour range can be prepared on-demand, on-site from your local distributor using International’s revolutionary paint mixing system, saving you time and money. Introducing, Perfection Pro Undercoat and Varnish to create the ultimate professional scheme. With a quick-drying undercoat available and a varnish to make any wooden surface shine. The Perfection Pro range now provides a comprehensive solution for any professional applicator.

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NEWS

Outlawed Representatives from the leisure marine industry are urging HMRC to issue clear guidance to owners and fuel suppliers in Northern Ireland on the imminent outlawing of the use of red diesel in private pleasure craft. As a result of the Northern Ireland protocol, the use of red diesel in noncommercial vessels will be outlawed from June this year. Red diesel will continue to be permitted in the rest of the UK following a government u-turn earlier this month.

Completion The first of a series of new 52ft racing yachts is nearing completion and due to launch in April 2021. Fibre Mechanics has completed production of the new IRC yacht, designed by Carkeek Design Partners, and the boat is now at Fox’s Marina and Boatyard in Suﬀolk for fitting out. The new CF 520 is a semi-custom racing yacht is a development of Carkeek’s Fast 40 design, built from full production carbon reinforced tooling and constructed in carbon epoxy pre-preg with a honeycomb core.

Pioneeering B&G is teaming up with H2Boat on its mission to circumnavigate Italy without using a single gram of fossil fuel. The ‘Zero-emission Tour of Italy by Boat’ will see a Phoenix 24 sailboat travel from Imperia to Tieste powered solely by H2Boat’s pioneering hydrogen energy pack.

8 | APRIL 2021

Despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, Group Beneteau has started 2021 with robust finances and is seeing the benefits of its Let's Go Beyond! plan. The group is forecasting a stable level of business for 2021 with a 60% growth in income from ordinary operations compared with the previous year. The Boat Division has performed particularly well thanks to a strong interest in recreational boat use which has led to an increase in sales of motorboats under 40 feet and a similarly buoyant market for larger boats. The group is currently forecasting growth of 10% in this segment. Growth of 5% Retails sales of mono and multihull boats are expected to grow by 2% but sales in the charter market are expected to contract by 50% as a result of pandemic

BOATING INTEREST HELPS BENETEAU STAY AFLOAT

Photo: Groupe Beneteau

BRIEFS

related restrictions. Overall the Boat Division is projected to grow by 5% in 2021. In line with the strategic plans, the company is focusing on three key areas - developing a complementary oﬀering

for the four leading brands (Beneteau, Jeanneau, Prestige and Lagoon) and overhauling the line-up of the four challenger brands (Four Winns, Wellcraft, Delphia and Excess); rolling out the 'connected boat'

8 The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a surge in recreational boating

systems to improve the onboard experience and enhance dealer services; and strengthening the group's ecological solutions.

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For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

NEWS

NEW ENTRANCE AND LAYOUT FOR SIBS 2021 Changes to the layout of this September's Southampton International Boat Show have been confirmed by organisers British Marine. Working in partnership with Southampton City Council, BM says additional land has been secured for use by the show making it larger than in previous years. A new entrance to the show will be located outside the city's Westquay shopping centre and once inside, visitors will be guided through new zones catering for specific interests. The first zone will be for paddle boards, kite surfers, kayaks and windsurfers, accompanied by a stage, street food and music. A Dinghy Zone geared towards the interest of dinghy sailors and highperformance sailing will flow into a Classic Boat & Day Boat Zone aimed at celebrating the boats and craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Mayflower Park and the marina will host power and sail boats, equipment and services. Throughout the show there will be new dedicated

features, including stages, live music, entertainment and guest speakers. There will also be on-thewater experiences with live commentary. “The show will inspire and capture the growing number of get-afloat newcomers through the new zone experience whilst balancing the more targeted needs of larger yacht builders within the marina showcasing the very latest power and sail craft,” said Lesley Robinson BM CEO. “Our end goal is to build on this national celebration of boating and watersports,

8 SIBS 2021 will feature onthe-water experiences with live commentary

oﬀering a great day out for the family in one location and a way of enthusing future generations. We invite exhibitors to be part of this vision.” And she said BM has engaged with the relevant Government department and the city council, to ensure a safe and happy environment and any necessary Covid-19 measures as may be required will be incorporated. The show is scheduled to take place from September 10 - 19 2021.

UBC DEVELOPS SUSTAINABLE HULLS The Ultimate Boat Company (UBC) will use a new recyclable and sustainable material to construct all the hulls in its range and cut pollution. DANU is comprised of a styrene free resin and sustainable fibres to make it stronger and lighter than fibreglass and less brittle than carbon. It was developed by boat designer, champion sailor and founder of TYNC Yacht Design, Jeroen Wats. UBC has now acquired TYNC Yacht Design and Jeroen

will become UBC's technical director. “DANU has been developed to be stronger and lighter than GRP, sustainable and circular (no EOL), and, for production, identical to conventional yacht building (provided that vacuum infusion is used),” said a company spokesperson. Virgin state “The materials we use for DANU are all natural. Each component can be reversed to its virgin

state without losing any technical properties.” The material has been developed to maintain its technical properties and strength indefinitely, allowing it to be re-cycled, upcycled or re-manufactured. UBC says cost is comparable with traditional materials, with no additional manufacturing or labour costs required. UBC – based in Scotland - has recently launched a new product portfolio of power craft.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

APRIL 2021 | 9

NEWS

BRIEFS Addition ASAP Supplies has expanded its range with the addition of products from Baileys Fibreglass. The newly acquired range consists of fibreglass mats, resins, hardeners, flowcoats and gelcoats. Baileys polyester resin is a rapid-cure general purpose laminating lay-up resin, suitable for general repairing of fibreglass boat hulls and marine maintenance applications.

Partnership Wuzzos sailing shoe manufacturer has partnered with MicroFresh in its bid to help sailors have fresh feet. The technology has been developed to be used on products from textiles to leather and footwear. In addition, Wuzzos has signed a distribution agreement with Germany’s Peter Frisch that will allow the manufacturer to expand its reach across Europe.

The RS200 sailing dinghy is to be updated to a vinylester resin construction while continuing with a resin infusion build method. The change follows a Class Association vote which decided that although a One Design class, small updates are essential to help ensure the RS200 remains a top contender for those considering a two-person hiking dinghy. The use of vinylester resin will allow the new UK based builder, Ginger Boats Racing, to continue with the resin infusion build method with which the RS200 has been built since 2015, ensuring the continuation of build quality. New boats will be supplied with either an Allen or Harken fitout.

NEW CONSTRUCTION METHOD FOR RS200

MUSTO AND WORLD SAILING IN FIVE YEAR DEAL Musto and World Sailing are joining forces in a five year deal which will see race oﬃcials kitted out in Musto clothing at global sailing events including the postponed Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games. As a result of the partnership, Musto will become a global partner to the Youth Sailing World Championship, the Hempel World Cup Series and Final, the Hempel Oﬀshore

Reversed New figures reveal a surge in demand for boats and other watersports craft during 2020, reversing the decline seen in the previous year. Thanks to Covid-19 restrictions curtailing travel abroad and giving more leisure time for some, figures from the Boats Group show sales have grown 9% in 2020 compared to an 8% decline in 2019, with sales particularly buoyant among boats costing over £100,000. In total 3,544 new and used boats were reported as sold to Boats Group in the UK in 2020, generating £250m in revenue.

10 | APRIL 2021

World Championship and the 2023 Sailing World Championships in The Hague, The Netherlands. World Sailing chief executive, David Graham, said that Musto had a long and successful legacy in sailing. “Our sport is evolving very quickly with much faster boats which puts a greater demand on the kit we wear,” he said. “Musto have responded quickly, enabling the sailors to focus on performing.”

PARTNERSHIP EXTENSION

SHIPSHADE FOR SALE

A registered brand name and unique product are being sold together or separately by the owner Peter Pritchard ‘Please contact me regarding this unusual and one – off business opportunity’ pritchard765@btinternet.com www.shipshade.co.uk

MAN Engines and the Ferretti Group have extended their 30-year partnership, with MAN committing to supplying its entire range to the yacht manufacturer for a further three years. This includes all series from the smallest in-line six-cylinder i6-730 to V8 engines through to the 12-cylinder V12-2000. The engines cover the entire power range from 730 to 2,000hp (537 to 1,471 kW) with boat sizes

from 55 to 120ft equipped with MAN engines. MAN Engines will be supplying several brands in the Ferretti Group, namely Ferretti Yachts, Pershing, Itama, Riva and Custom Line. “We would like to thank the Ferretti Group for its faith in our products and we are looking forward to growing together,” commented head of MAN Engines, Dr Matthias Schreiber.

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NEWS Marine electric propulsion systems company ePropulsion has experienced a 60% growth in sales revenue in 2020 with further forecasted growth of 100% in 2021. The results have been driven by demand in its two top market areas - Western Europe and North America. “When we look at market segments, we see a positive trend of a 20% conversion rate from diﬀerent boat owners transferring to using electric propulsion outboards,” said said Danny Tao, ePropulsion CEO. “I am really proud of the growth and success ePropulsion has seen since it was founded nine years ago. Like many businesses, we were impacted by Covid-19 in early 2020, however, we were fortunate that the outbreak was very eﬀectively controlled at our headquarters and in the surrounding area.” The company has recently launched a series of new models, including the Spirit 1.0 Evo, Navy

60% JUMP IN REVENUE

Aﬀordable Intellian has signed a US$73m deal with low earth orbit (LEO) satellite network provider OneWeb to develop and supply aﬀordable compact user terminals. The antennas will use next-generation technology to provide high bandwidth, low latency connectivity to OneWeb’s global satellite service, delivering to multiple markets.

Appointment 3.0 Evo and Navy 6.0 Evo models; an evolution of its established Spirit and Navy product lines, with hydrogenation capabilities. ePropulsion has also developed a new 9.9hp pod drive model. Other developments for 2021 include 48-

volt capabilities, safety wristbands, a new ergonomic tiller and directdrive brushless motors. The company, based in Hong Kong and with dealers in the UK, launched its first product at METSTRADE in 2013 and started production in 2016. To support the

8 ePropulsion is forecasting 100% growth in revenue in 2021

expansion, ePropulsion has grown its workforce by 40% in 2020, with 160 employees now working across its three facilities in China. The company has gained 40 new patents in the last year.

RYA LAUNCHES DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY PLAN The RYA has launched a new strategy aimed at promoting a diverse and inclusive culture in sailing. The 'RYA Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy 2021-2030, Charting an Equal, Diverse and Inclusive Course for the Future of Boating' Strategy has been devised with input from an Ethnicity in Boating Forum was launched to coincide with the UN's International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March. Chief executive, Sarah Treseder, said the RYA joined other voices from the world of sport last summer to speak out against racism. “In doing so we recognised that more needed to be done to ensure that boating was as inclusive and diverse as we would like it to be,” she said. “We reaﬃrmed our commitment to equality

BRIEFS

of opportunity then, and have gone on to develop the strategy that will enable us to deliver on that commitment - recreational boating and competitive sailing that is accessible

and inclusive to all." Representing more than 104,000 members, the RYA achieved the Advanced Level of the Sports Councils' Equality Standard for Sport in 2016. The strategy aims

to change perceptions, behaviours, experiences and reality and details a ten step action plan focused on embedding best practice, training, positive engagement and monitoring.

CENTURY REACHED FOR INSURANCE COMPANY Navigators and General (N&G) has celebrated its 100-year anniversary. The Brighton-based company, owned by Zurich UK, was founded on March 1 1921 by Captain William Coombs, a Merchant Navy officer and World War One veteran, after a fellow officer was demoted without appeal when his steamer was sunk in a collision. The insurance company was set up to protect officers whose certificates were withdrawn, suspended or reduced to a lower grade. “For a century, we have

8 Captain Coombs founded N&G 100 years' ago

protecting our customers on and oﬀ the water,” said Maria Cospito, head of N&G. “Although a significantly diﬀerent company to the one Captain Coombs formed in

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1921, our focus on customers has remained constant, and it's their trust and loyalty that has helped us to reach this milestone in our history. From its oﬃces in Brighton, the company has grown to provide cover for watercraft of all sizes from, small motorboats to large yachts worth up to £10 million. It also insures marine businesses, including marinas, hire fleets, boat builders and boat yards. The company employs 36 people, eight of whom have been with the insurer for more than 20 years.

Channel Islands based South Pier Marine has been appointed dealer for the Dromeas Yachts brand. South Pier Marine has sales oﬃces on Jersey and Guernsey with both oﬃces supported with sales and after sales.

Sales oﬃce Argo Nautical is to open a new sales oﬃce at MDL’s Ocean Village Marina, Southampton, this Spring. Argo Nautical was established in 1964 and is the name behind a number of brands in the marine luxury sector including Princess Motor Yacht Sales, American boating brand Chris-Craft and independent luxury yacht brokerage brand, Argo Yachting.

New base Wesup is moving its Hamble River base to MDL Marinas’ Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park. The base will be staﬀed by senior instructors Harry Sullivan and Phoebe Vernon, who will sell and hire a range of Fanatic paddle boards, from touring to racing, beginners to advanced.

APRIL 2021 | 11

BUSINESSMATTERS ADAM BERNSTEIN: Freelance Financial Journalist

Justice secretary Robert Buckland indicated in February, that it may be legal for companies to insist on new staff being vaccinated as a condition of their employment, as long as this requirement was written into their contract. Requiring employees to be vaccinated According to Mark Stevens, senior associate at law firm VWV, the law currently does not currently permit vaccinations to be mandatory. “It is true,” he says, “that the government has the power to make regulations to prevent, protect against, control or provide a public health response to, the incidence or spread of infection or contamination. But the regulations cannot require a person to undergo mandatory medical treatment, which specifically includes vaccination.” But he also thinks that a mandatory vaccination requirement may also amount to a breach of Articles 8 and 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights. So, an employer cannot force an employee to be vaccinated. But he adds, “it does not necessarily follow, however, that an employer cannot dismiss an employee for refusing the vaccine or require that they be vaccinated in order to join or work in their business.” The ACAS view ACAS advises that rather than requiring employees to be vaccinated, employers should encourage staff and support them to do so, for example, by offering paid time off to attend vaccination appointments. ACAS guidance also suggests that in most circumstances, it is best for 12 | APRIL 2021

'NO JAB, NO JOB' - THE LEGAL IMPLICATIONS FOR EMPLOYERS Millions in the UK have reportedly received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine. However, vaccination also raises a number of legal issues, chief of which are the potential legal implications of employers making vaccinations a requirement of employment, writes Adam Bernstein employers to support staﬀ to get the vaccine without making it a requirement. However, if an employer feels it is important for staﬀ to be vaccinated, ACAS says that it should consult with them. And where further steps are necessary, this should be recorded in writing, in, say, a policy. Employee discipline and dismissals A natural question to ask is, very simply, can an employee be disciplined on the basis that the request to have a vaccine amounts to a reasonable management instruction? The answer, says, Mark is “yes - and ACAS guidance supports this, but it indicates that the employer should be mindful of potential discrimination claims; whether it is a contractual requirement of the employee; and/or whether the vaccination is necessary for the employee to carry out their job.” He adds that “it is also possible that an employee could be dismissed for not having had the vaccine. But an employee could resign in response to a requirement that they are vaccinated.” On these points he cautions that depending on the employee's length of service, “the decision to impose mandatory vaccinations could lead to unfair dismissal claims or constructive dismissal claims from those employees who resign.” Could the refusal to take the vaccine give the employer a potentially fair reason to dismiss? This, says Mark, will depend on

ground that the provision, criteria or practice was a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.”

‘‘

The Employment Tribunal would need to consider whether the employee's views of the vaccine, or vaccines in general, is capable of protection the individual employee's circumstances and their reason(s) for not taking the vaccine. “An employer can, subject to following a fair procedure, fairly dismiss an employee who fails or refuses to comply with a reasonable management request.” But is requiring an employee to take the Covid-19 vaccine reasonable? The answer to this, says Mark, depends on the nature of the employer's business and customers - as he puts it, “what is a reasonable instruction in the context of a medical setting may well be diﬀerent in the context of an oﬃce or retail environment.” Requiring a job candidate to be vaccinated To some it appears easier to impose terms on a job candidate since there's no contract in place. In particular, employers may look to make having the Covid-19 vaccine a

requirement of the job, rejecting any candidate who has not been vaccinated. But warns Mark, “this raises significant legal risks, however; a requirement for employees or job applicants to be vaccinated is likely to amount to a provision, criterion or practice that puts individuals with a protected characteristic at a particular disadvantage compared with others who do not share that protected characteristic, in contravention of the Equality Act 2010. This could lead to indirect discrimination claims.” For the record, indirect discrimination may arise on a number of grounds. Namely age, disability, sex, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief. The saving grace for employers, says Mark, is that it can potentially be defended by an employer: “Discriminatory treatment can be justified on the

Declining the vaccine for personal reasons Individuals may argue that their belief, that vaccines are not necessary or are dangerous, amounts to a philosophical belief and that a requirement that they receive the vaccine in order to continue to work infringes that belief. But as Mark explains “the Employment Tribunal would need to consider whether the employee's views of the vaccine, or vaccines in general, is capable of protection. The test will be whether the belief attains a certain level of cogency, seriousness, cohesion and importance, and that it is worthy of respect in a democratic society, that it is not incompatible with human dignity and does not conflict with the fundamental rights of others.” He points out that this has not been tested in an Employment Tribunal. Conclusion Making vaccinations mandatory for employees carries risks and should not be done without care and legal advice. It may be better, especially at present where vaccinations are not available to all, to simply encourage and facilitate the vaccination of employees to avoid giving rise to claims for discrimination, or unfair or constructive dismissal. One thing is certain, acting in haste may lead an employer to repent at leisure.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

NEW SMART BATTERY BOX Barrus Marine Equipment is introducing the new PowerAce SmartBox X10 to the UK market in May. Developed by technical accessories manufacturer Vadac BV, the patentpending SmartBox X10 is a portable, universal battery box. It features integrated wheels and a telescopic handle and has been developed to make light work of transporting a heavy battery. “The new PowerAce SmartBox X10 is a great product to add to our technical equipment ranges,” commented Ben Allen, general manager for the Marine Divisions at Barrus. “This is the world's first truly portable battery box and we are pleased to secure exclusivity to distribute the product in the UK.” The SmartBox X10 is manufactured from high-

8 Barrus is the exclusive UK distributor for the PowerAce SmartBox X10

grade polypropylene and is suitable for batteries up to 120Ah with all cabling is contained internally. Features include high current terminal posts

for a reliable connection for energy-intensive applications. Other features include a waterproof marine grade 12v socket, a dual

USB socket for charging electronic devices and an Anderson connector. There is also a strap included enabling the box to be fixed to the floor.

NEW ONLINE TRAINING PROGRAMME WhisperPower is rolling out an online training programme to assist existing and potential customers to gain useful product knowledge. The Whisper Online Learning Project - W.O.L will use Microsoft Teams software with training sessions lasting around two hours, timed so that European, American and other countries may join at a mutually-convenient time. The training is open to anyone who is working professionally with WhisperPower products. “We used to have handson training days at our Drachten plant, and also at our regional oﬃces, but COVID has since made that impossible," explained WhisperPower's founder and owner, Roel ter Heide. “We know how important product

knowledge is to our dealers, so it was a natural progression for us to supplement our popular Whisper TV channel with high-level training sessions.”

The programme will replace the company's Learning Days where dealers would previously have attended regional venues to get hands-on

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

8 WhisperPower's new online training is open to anyone working professionally with the company's products

with the products and talk directly with the engineers.

Victron releases new version of Connect app Victron Energy has released a new version of its VictronConnect app meaning up to three units can now be configured as parallel, three or split-phased systems meaning there is now no need to switch between applications. Version 5.37 for Android and 5.36 for all other platforms now also allows users to change the settings of each individual MultiPlus/Quattro in an existing system and to copy settings from one of the inverters to the rest as well as saving the settings of all the units to a file. The new version has an updated VE.Bus Smart Dongle (v1.08) which now allows the input current limit for systems with a VE.Bus BMS to be set through the phone app. It can also be configured to be a voltage or temperature-sense input for solar chargers so no longer needs Smart Battery Sense to be installed alongside. The main device list page has been improved to include Bluetooth signal strength and the device now scans for compatible Bluetooth products continuously, making it faster and more straightforward. Other changes include improvements to the BLE connection; new firmware for all BMV models as well as the SmartShunt, containing various minor improvements; new firmware for the SmartBMS CL, Inverter RS and MPPT RS; added option to filter VRM installations by tag; various user interface improvements for BMS CL; a configurable display backlight behaviour and selectable temperature unit for the Inverter RS & MPPT RS together with bug fixes and stability improvements. APRIL 2021 | 13

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

CZONE MAKES DIGITAL CONTROL EASY

Direct control of electrical systems The 'plug and play' Contact 6 PLUS integrates with all major marine chart plotter Following on from the launch of the YPOWER range of modern automatic digital chargers from Cristec, the company has now completed the launch of its more powerful HPOWER range. Like Cristec's YPOWER range, it oﬀers five stage charging and has easy to adjust settings for all battery types including lithium ion. The chargers have three independent outputs for separate battery banks and can be 'banked' with up to four units coupled together to increase charging output. Together with features such as CAN-Bus connectivity, these are suitable for modern centrally monitored systems and are also available in DNV-UL standard for industry applications requiring certified equipment. “The ability to bank Cristec chargers increases 14 | APRIL 2021

Photo: CZone

CZone has unveiled a new stand-alone digital switching module giving skippers complete control and monitoring of up to six circuits, all presented on the boat's existing multifunction display or monitor. Compatible with a range of systems such as Hummingbird, Raymarine, Navico, SONOS, Amazon Alexa, Apple Airplay, Ring, Google Assistant and Nest, the self-contained Contact 6 PLUS removes the need for extra toggle or push-button switches. With a choice of customisable displays, waterproof keypad and smart harness, the Contact 6 PLUS can be networked into an existing CZone system or installed as a discrete system. and multi-function display manufacturers and gives direct control of electrical systems, including fault warning notifications and circuit status indication.

Switches can be configured to be momentary such as for operating the horn or latching for, say, the boat's lighting. The built-in timer functions are ideal

for live bait tanks, enabling them to be switched on and oﬀ using a single button control meaning that they are not left on all day draining battery life.

8 A Hummingbird SOLIX displaying CZone's new Contact 6 PLUS

Czone is distributed in the UK and Ireland by Marathon Leisure.

FIVE STAGE CHARGING FROM HPOWER RANGE

their capability enormously, which is particularly relevant to modern lithium-ion battery banks,” explained Rod Boreham, MD of UK distributor

8 Cristec's HPOWER range has settings for all battery types

Advance Yacht Systems. “These can take very large currents and be charged in a short space of time.” Cristec's YPOWER

development also keeps moving on, with the latest product a 'fanless' 12V-60A charger. The new YPOWER 60+ is silent and is now the same size as the 40A model. In addition, Advance Yacht will soon have available two new generators, the Paguro 4 MY and the Paguro 5.5 SY. The generators use PMG

8 Paguru is to launch the MY and 5,5 SY

technology, with the 4 MY using the Yanmar L70N engine and the 5.5 SY using the L100 Yanmar engine. They will be oﬀered as a lower priced alternative to the Paguro 6000 which uses a Lombardini engine. Both share the same synchronous generator technology.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

V1 SEAPLEX UPGRADED Latest battery charger incarnation

Photo: E-Plex

E-Plex has upgraded its V1 SeaPlex (now E-Plex) system for S38 Sealine owners. To address the fact the ageing V1 system is no longer supported from a spares parts perspective and that owners want keep up to date with digital switching advances, E-Plex has developed a complete upgrade kit encompassing the entire system and bringing a new lease of life to the S38 digital switching - combined with continued support. The system replaces the entire V1 system and includes the latest E-Plex modules: touchscreen control panel, power distribution modules, touchscreen light switches, rocker switches panels for the helm, tank sensors modules, battery monitors and an additional AC shore power monitor. This upgrade system gives owners additional functionality including anew main touchscreen

display with multiple pages for control and monitoring functions, the latest power distribution modules with manual override capability if the network connection is lost, new AC shore power display providing the shore power volts, frequency

and amps being drawn by the boat and updated touchscreen light switches delivering greater durability. There are also optional extras that can be purchased alongside the upgrade, including a full colour touchscreen control

8 E-Plex has developed a complete upgrade kit for the Sealine S38 V1 system

panel with graphical display to control and monitor all the E-plex controlled functions and remote control and monitoring functions to enable smart.

Power your aquatic adventures • Fit & forget – maintenance free • Fast Recharge: to 80% in less than 3.5hours and ideal for opportunity charging • 1000 cycles at 60% DoD • Wide model range offering from 6V up to 12V blocks • Designed and optimized for cyclic intensive and PSoC motive applications • Inhouse improved design of one-of-a-kind separator SUHYHQWLQJ DFLG VWUDWLƓFDWLRQ ZKLOH RSWLPL]LQJ electrolyte retention

LEOCH BATTERY UK is a popular choice of battery supplier within the marine industry. LEOCH Deep Cycle LDC series, engineered using enhanced AGM and lead carbon technology, fit all kind of watercrafts and deliver the dependable power you need. For enquires please contac t LEOCH BAT TERY UK LTD. By phone on 01858 433 330, email us at sales.uk@leoch.com o r v i s i t o u r we b s i t e w w w. l e o c h b at t e r y. c o. u k

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

The latest incarnation in the Skylla battery charger range from Victron Energy is a waterproof and intelligent battery charger with a seven-stage adaptive charge algorithm. It is suitable for a wide range of battery types and chemistries and features a dedicated Lithium-ion charge algorithm. The new model has been developed to eventually replace the Skylla-IP44 range with its improvements in hardware including a significant improvement in output power. Each of the units feature a wide range universal input voltage, providing flexibility in installation. The charger will maintain its full output power no matter where it is located in the world. It has an IP65 rating making it able to withstand the rigors of an adverse environment such as heat, humidity and salt air. There are two models available: 12V/70A and 24V/35A - both are available in two versions three full rated outputs to charge three battery banks and two isolated outputs - one full rated and the second limited to 3A and a lower output voltage intended to top up a starter battery. Other features include an LCD display for status monitoring, a CAN-bus interface, synchronised parallel operation, variable absorption time and a storage mode that kicks in when the battery has not been subjected to discharge within 24 hours. APRIL 2021 | 15

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Xantrex has introduced two new FREEDOM XC PRO marine models, continuing the evolution of the inverter/charger brand. Features of the new compact and lightweight inverter/chargers include a 50A transfer relay (on the 3000W model), dead battery charging, the ability to charge any battery chemistry including lithium ion and NMEA 2000 communications. The NMEA 2000 communications allows the inverter/charger to integrate with other compliant devices, enabling it to be monitored and controlled via a single multifunction display (MFD) along with the other compliant onboard connected devices. The new model is available in both 2000-watt and 3000-watt models. The 3000-watt model which has a 150-amp battery charger; the 2000-watt model features a 100-amp battery charger. Both models have been developed to surge to two times their rated power for five seconds. Other key features include full output in higher temperatures, operation control via ignition key, and monitoring and control via Bluetooth app available on both iOS and Android. Xantrex is a subsidiary of Mission Critical Electronics (MCE). 16 | APRIL 2021

LEAD CARBON BATTERIES REMAIN POPULAR Battery technology that drives the electric propulsion of a boat is constantly evolving, however, Leoch is seeing lead carbon cells remaining a popular choice for inland waterways vessels due to the ballast weight, amp hour and voltage banks for the motor. Although lithium batteries are still proving to be very popular, there are some new lead carbon batteries that can match many of their properties, says Leoch. These include a high number of cycles and no damage from partial charging. Lead Carbon AGM Gel as a great all-round battery for smaller boats up to 60ft narrow beam,” said a Leoch spokesperson. “Pure lead carbons for high density power in a

8 Leoch is seeing continued demand for lead carbon batteries

limited space; lead carbon two and 12-volt cells for heavy duty,

commercial applications.” And the spokesperson explained that the battery

life of lead carbon batteries can be extended by up to 15-20 years (based on daily cycling) and they also offer a deep cycle capability of 4,000 cycles at 60% Depth of Discharge (DoD). “The key to the batteries' enhanced performance is the addition of carbon that reinforces PSoC (Partial State of Charge) usage,” added the spokesperson. “With their strong cyclic and PSoC abilities, lead carbon batteries offer a great fit for the power and energy storage needs of boat owners, particularly in powering off-grid boating and solar/renewables.”

DEMAND FOR MASTERVOLT ALTERNATORS UP Aquafax is seeing increased demand for Mastervolt's Alpha Alternators, particularly where lithium ion battery technology is being used more frequently. Mastervolt's Alpha Alternators, coupled with their Alpha Pro regulator, deliver a controlled threestep charging output for a fast and safe charge when plugged into shore power. “The technical team at Aquafax are seeing the Mastervolt Alpha Alternators as a popular choice in supporting battery systems on new builds and refurbishment projects,” said Richard Pardoe, group technical product manager at UK distributor Aquafax. “Alpha Alternators can be configured to handle a wide range of battery technologies and are particularly well suited to Lithium Ion battery installations where they are capable of supporting high demand, fast charging performance.” The Mastervolt Alpha Alternators are available

Photo: Mastervolt/ Aquafax

Evolution of Xantrex Freedom chargers

8 Mastervolt's Alpha Alternators, coupled with their Alpha Pro regulator, deliver a controlled 3-step charging output

in 12V and 24V and can also output up to 200A depending on the model. This means they are suitable for nearly any application and vessel. They come with temperature

compensation when needed and Masterbus connectivity via the remote regulator provided, allowing the alternator to be linked to a complete Mastervolt system. The recently launched Alpha Compact Alternator is a new addition to the Mastervolt range and further make Alpha Alternators a viable option for a wider

range of engines with limited alternator mounting positions, including some direct upgrade versions for Volvo Penta engines. In addition to offering ample battery power storage, replenishing power efficiently and effectively whilst ensuring the longevity of a boat's battery bank is key.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

Covering shipmates of every generation since 1921. Navigators & General is proud to celebrate a hundred years of marine insurance. It’s a passion you hand down through generations. Protecting your pride and your passion for 100 years. www.navandgen.zurich.co.uk

Navigators & General is a trading name of Zurich Insurance plc, a public limited company incorporated in Ireland. Registration No. 13460. Registered Ofﬁce: Zurich House, Ballsbridge Park, Dublin 4, Ireland. UK Branch registered in England and Wales Registration No. BR7985. UK Branch Head Ofﬁce: The Zurich Centre, 3000 Parkway, Whiteley, Fareham, Hampshire PO15 7JZ.

49671_N&G_100_Years_N&G_BoatingBusiness-Ad_193x270_AW.indd 1

18/03/2021 16:38

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Y ADAPTER RECTIFIES ELECTRICAL MISMATCHES MARKETING KATE MOSS The Knot Agency Opportunities to connect with customers face to face are still limited, so now is the time to embrace webinars. You've probably attended many, but have you run your own? Use them to reconnect with existing customers and reach new audiences. Here are our top tips: 1. Ask your customers what would interest them. People are more likely to attend if it will enrich their lives or solve a relevant problem. 2. Promote your webinar using unique registration links so you can track eﬀectiveness and calculate ROI. Promotion doesn't need to be expensive - a boosted Facebook post can reach 10,000 people for the price of a takeaway. 3. Write a step-by-step delivery plan and hold a dress rehearsal to practice. 4. Most webinar platforms oﬀer the ability to start the webinar in practise mode, allowing testing of audio and video before attendees join. 5. Imagine the webcam is the person you are talking to. A natural conversational technique is better than reading a script. 6. There is often a reluctance by attendees to be the first person to ask a question during any Q&As. A handful of prewritten questions can get the session going. 7. Use follow up emails to send attendees notes or additional literature. 8. Feeling nervous? Consider getting professional help to organise and host your webinar. 18 | APRIL 2021

The YQ230 Intelligent Y Adapter from Hubbell Marine rectifies electrical mismatches by plugging into two 30A pedestal outlets to provide safe, correct and full power to a vessel. The adapter has an internal PC board that automatically checks that both plugs are engaged and in separately-phased outlets. As a safety feature, the YQ230 verifies correct polarity of a pedestal in case the hot and neutral wires are incorrect, or one of the plugs has become disengaged. If anything is amiss, the device shuts oﬀ to prevent an accident. A safety indicator light Fischer Panda UK has updated its website to show its strengthened eco-friendly product range. By meeting demand for hybrid cruising solutions, the company aims to help customers power their boats in an environmentally friendly way and help people achieve their targets in reducing net carbon output or emissions while onboard. The company's green portfolio has been created to answer current and future needs from boat owners for increased silent power periods and upgraded battery banks using the most innovative technology for quicker recharging, while reducing engine or generator alternator usage. “In combination with our new website, which is now live, we can make it easier for customers to navigate all the complicated options under our single system oﬀering,” said Robert Tuck, marine sales executive, Fischer Panda UK. Electric potential “We are increasing our focus in this area to help anyone interested in the

8 Hubbell Marine's Y Adapter verifies correct polarity of a pedestal

displays when the adapter is connected and working normally. The adapter has a sealed UV-and impact-resistant

housing; integrated clamps prevent strain on the cord terminals.

STRENGTHENED ECO-FRIENDLY RANGE FROM FISCHER PANDA UK

potential of electric to improve their on-board comfort and experience.” He added: “Fischer Panda UK can help boaters access all the advances in power electronics technologies, renewable power sources and battery chemistries, which all come together to enable a fully integrated system

oﬀering a large amount of power when out at sea or oﬀ-grid.” One of the latest additions to Fischer Panda UK's portfolio is its VS Series of variable speed hybrid DC generators for electric propulsion which enables generator speed to be regulated in accordance with the required power,

8 Fischer Panda UK's gensets offer electric or hybrid cruising

reducing noise and fuel consumption. The gensets oﬀer either electric cruising powered from the battery bank or hybrid cruising using the batteries and the variable speed DC generator as a range extender.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

BALMAR UNVEILS NEW 48V SYSTEM ALTERNATORS COMPACT GENERATORS FROM VETUS

power packages of 60A and 100A, these high power alternators provide 2.9kW

CARLING UNVEILS NEW DIGITAL SWITCHING TOOL Carling Technologies has launched a new digital switching platform that delivers simple, intuitive control over the increasingly complex systems found on today's vessels. MPower is a modular, programmable solution targeted at all segments of the leisure marine market, from smaller vessels to large boats with multiple helms. It enables full control and monitoring of onboard electrical and electronic systems including lighting, security systems and bilge pumps with critical alarms delivered directly to mobile devices to allow boaters to take immediate action both on board or remotely. “MPower is truly an evolution in technology that creates the intelligent boating experience that today's consumers are demanding,” said Frank Emnett, vice president software, monitoring & control systems. The new platform comprises 12-Channel and 16-Channel DC Load Controller Modules,

Contura 6-Rocker Digital Switch Modules, 12-Button Customisable Keypads and a 12- Channel Optional Bypass Module. MPower allows circuits to be paralleled and oﬀers Ignition Protection. All MPower components connect directly to the NMEA 2000 network, allowing circuit breakers to be controlled, monitored or reset from various electronics including the Maretron MBB300C Black Box, Maretron DSM Color Displays, the TSM810C Dedicated Maretron Touchscreen, Garmin OneHelm or any device running Maretron's award-winning N2KView V3 software. The Maretron N2KBuilder V3 is a free, PC-based software used to plan, document and validate the design of NMEA 2000 networks. N2KAnalyzer V3 is a software tool that provides a detailed view of all the devices on a NMEA 2000 network allowing a variety of configuration, updating and troubleshooting tasks to be performed.

and 4.8kW of charging power respectively. Lithium batteries can be charged at very high rates, so a 48V system can accomplish this in a cost eﬀective way. With much lower cut-in speeds than alternatives in the market (1,325 RPM for 60A,

8 The new 96-series alternators from Balmar

2,200 RPM for 100A) the 96-series makes more power at lower RPM, thereby limiting the need for complex pulley schemes or over-throttling the engine at idle.

REVOLUTIONARY NEW

BOW PRO THRUSTERS • Proportional control • Unlimited runtime • Brushless motor • Up to 93% efﬁcient • THE solution for charter ﬂeets

FIND OUT MORE AT W W W.V E T U S . C O M SALES@VETUS.CO.UK | 023 8045 4507

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

Balmar has released a new pair of alternators allowing boat builders and owners to make use of increasingly popular 48V systems. Increasing power demands such as air conditioning and cooking can stretch 12V systems beyond practical application. A 48V system can include benefits such as more eﬃcient components, the ability to install larger capacity inverters, manageable cable sizes, and higher output alternators. When paired with the new MC-620 Regulator, the new 96-series alternators allow owners to combine the advantages of Balmar's multi-stage regulation capability in a 48V charging system. Oﬀered in two

Vetus has utilised its redesigned M-Line engine within its expanded range of marine diesel generator sets. Following the addition of the lower output 5kVA unit for smaller vessels, the full Vetus GX range now covers 5kVA to 24kVA. The fixed speed generators are compact for easy installation, with low and high rpm models, and are available in 50 or 60Hz. Most of the range feature the updated M-Line marine diesel engines, which have a water-cooled top cover, reducing the heat in the sound-proof box. The new air filter also ensures low noise levels. The top cover is also designed to be used as a step. “The Vetus GX range delivers all the features that are most important to boat owners - reliability, easy maintenance, quiet and eﬃcient operation and high performance,” said Thijs Boegheim, sales director EMEA and global marketing director, Vetus. Features of the redesigned Vetus M-Line engines include a cast aluminium top cover to reduce the detrimental eﬀects of heat and sound. "This engine cover is located directly above the cylinder head to absorb radiant heat, significantly reducing temperature by up to 20% for improved generator performance," added Thijs. The gensets are available with or without a compact sound-proof box, except the 5kVA unit which is supplied as standard with sound proofing. APRIL 2021 | 19

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Alpha 12/90 III Delivery includes Alpha Pro III charge regulator Fast & complete charging of starter and service batteries. Power supply for all consumers 12 V and 24 V versions 75 A to 150 A charge current Standard delivered with Alpha Pro III charge regulator for an optimal performance and longer-lasting batteries For all engine types Fast charging- even at stationary rpm Performs above 40c Using a Battery Mate or battery isolator in conjunction with an Alpha alternator makes it possible to easily charge two or three separate battery sets simultaneously.

ChargeMaster Plus 12/75-3 CZone compatible All-in-one solution for faster and safer charging ChargeMaster Plus is the next generation of battery chargers that integrates multiple functions into one single device. Replacing auxiliary chargers, battery isolators and VSR, ChargeMaster Plus reduces system complexity and cost. Designed for versatility, it charges virtually any combination of two or three batteries in a fast and safe way and works anywhere in the world. Features Multicharger with two outputs, one in/output, DC-DC converter, current limiter and VSR Charges Lithium Ion, Gel and AGM batteries, the 24 V models also charge large or small battery banks on a single battery charger Combine Lithium Ion, Gel or AGM, and large or small battery Charges multiple batteries while being underway )\XIRHIH WTIGM½GEXMSRW SJJIVW QSVI SYXTYX EX : ERH charging power at 60°C 7EJI 'LEVKI UYMGOP] VIGSKRM^I XLI 7XEXI SJ 'LEVKI JSV I\XIRHIH FEXXIV] PMJI :IV] [MHI STIVEXMRK VERKI SJ : %' ,^ Compact, easy to connect and quick to install

LESLEY ROBINSON British Marine CEO After more than a year dominated by the pandemic, it is more important than ever for our industry to unite around the return of the Southampton International Boat Show and the vital role it plays in protecting and growing the leisure marine market. British Marine is extremely excited to announce the new layout and zones at the show and I hope you will share our refreshed vision to build on this national celebration of boating and watersports. The zones will firstly build upon and enhance the core successful boat show formula in Mayflower Park and Europe's largest purpose-built marina that brings together hundreds of marine brands together in one location. Secondly, they will promote the 'on the water' lifestyle and both inspire and capture serious boat buyers and newcomers to watersports. From OEMs and the supply chain to training providers and holiday companies, together the industry needs to make recreational boating and watersports stand out in a crowded and competitive leisure marketing landscape. Our boat show oﬀers the perfect format for this - it's the British industry showcase. The new changes to the show are aimed at amplifying the voice of recreational boating, driving sales and leads for exhibitors, and positioning us to expand the industry for years to come. I hope you will be part of it too. 22 | APRIL 2021

FITTING OUT: EXTERIOR Besenzoni's latest gangway uses the latest electronic technology to make it lighter, more eﬃcient, quieter and more environmentally-friendly. The LaPasserella range can be operated with either a 12V or a 24V power supply and with it being electronic, there is no need for oil or a hydraulic control panel. “LaPasserella has achieved the ambitious objective of making the gangway easier to use and more environmentallyfriendly while maintaining the operating standards required in a marine environment, and at the same time simplifying the production process (with fewer components needing to be produced and assembled) and making it easier to install on the yacht,” says Giorgio Besenzoni, Besenzoni MD. “There are many benefits for boatyards - installation is much faster, it saves space on board and is therefore more economical -, but it is also better for the final customer, as it will make sailing more enjoyable and less stressful, since they won't have all that bothersome oil in the

NEW ELECTRONIC GANGWAY FROM BESENZONI

bilge and it will be more environmentally-friendly because it will avoid even the slightest escape of oil into the sea.” The platform is available with either a synthetic

8 LaPasserella is operated using an app or remote control

teak or a woven rope surface, has LED lighting and can be operated from a smartphone using the Besenzoni Control Device App or via the standard remote control provided.

It is available in three versions of diﬀerent lengths ranging from 2m to 4.5m. The gangway is distributed in the UK by Timage.

NEW TEXTILE FENDER LAUNCHES IN UK A new inflatable textile fender aimed at the yachting market has launched in the UK. Fendertex is said to be the only manufacturer of inflatable textile fenders for the yachting market. Its range comprises fenders for mega and giga yachts to protect hulls during berthing and bumper fenders for docks, pontoon or boats to allow for safe docking. “Fendertex is a very new product and was recently launched in the UK,” said James Kershaw, sales manager at Seaview Progress which is the sole distributor for Fendertex in the UK. “Depending how you look at the product, Fendertex can either be

8 Fendertex inflatable fenders come in three different shapes

Photo: Fendertex

Latest news from

very easy to explain or extremely complicated, but one thing that is certain is that it's unique on the

market as the Fendertex products are the only knitted fenders available on the market today."

Storage of traditional fenders is often an issue on vessels. Once deflated and rolled, Fendertex fenders are 95% smaller than traditional fenders. The standard line oﬀers cylindrical, spherical and tandem fenders. Lightweight and built to withstand immense pressures, the outer shells are made from a single piece of knitted, engineered textile which can be customised with a boat's name or other design. Available accessories include fender covers, sheathed D-rings, braidlines, flatlines, ropes and pumps.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

FITTING OUT: EXTERIOR Marlow Ropes expanded into new oﬃces and factory space at its UK HQ in 2020, a move that has enabled the company to enhance its rope-making capabilities and increase capacity in key areas such as splicing and twisting yarn. “With investment in its technical lab area which includes a new 100 tonnes tensile testing machine, amongst other testing equipment, it will allow an even greater commitment to R&D and innovation,” explained marketing manager Emma Donovan. “With over 200 years of experience and knowledge in the rope-making industry, Marlow's technical ability is hard to rival.” Over the last two years Marlow Ropes has focused on sourcing sustainable and bio-based materials, reducing waste and lowering its carbon footprint. This has led to a partnership with SailGP, suppling the event with lines from its new eco-conscious ranges, including the biobased Dyneema fibre for use onboard the high-speed Echomax has released multiple new products this year that will help boaters boost eﬃciency and safety. The Echomax EM180MIDI radar reflector is suitable for small yachts and motor vessels 6-7m in length. It is 360mm tall and 197mm wide. It weighs just 1.2Kgs. with fixing centres at 305mm. Its estimated response is 7-8m2. Also new to the market is the EM35i inflatable reflector. This is a trihedral in an inflatable ball. It is lightweight and small when packed, but when inflated produces a massive

MARLOW EXPANDS INTO NEW FACILITIES

F50 foiling catamarans and Blue Ocean dock lines made from 100% recycled waste from plastic bottles

to aid docking logistics. The company is hoping to schedule a series of open day events once Covid

restrictions allow, to show products, technical abilities, educational resources and production capabilities.

8 Marlow Ropes has partnered with SailGP supplying lines for the event

ECHOMAX RANGE BOOSTS SAFETY

response of 107m2 X-Band and is predicted to be >300m2 at Ku-Band. Useful for target or tracking use, EM180-MIDI

weighs just 418grms with six fittings. Fixings to secure can be added as required. The EM 230 Compact radar reflector, suitable for

6-9 metre fast fishing boats, solves the problem of where to fit the radar reflector and the light. It is available with optional factory fitted Lalizas DOT all round navigation light or Tri-colour light supplied with 4M of cable, Hella LED 360 all-round white supplied certified by RINA/USCG/ IMO/NMMA to 2nm with 1M cable and Orionis B LED with RINA certified to 2nm. Echomax's combi bracket provides multiple mounting options. Made from 2mm stainless steel, it will

accommodate smaller radars such as Raymarine, Garmin, Simrad and Furuno etc. The basic upright enables Echomax's EM230 Basemount, Compact or Compact Plus radar reflectors with or without a navigation light, or Active X or XS target enhancers to be safely positioned over the radar. Also available are the EM1000/EM1800 pencil buoys, EMF700/ EMF1250 mooring floats and the EM700/EM1250 navigational buoys.

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For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

APRIL 2021 | 23

FITTING OUT: EXTERIOR

RECORD TREND CONTINUES FOR PERMATEEK Wilks unveils revamped fendering system

Refreshed Flexiteek brand Wilks was taken over in early 2019 by decking manufacturer, Flexiteek. The company, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2020, is beginning 2021 with a refreshed brand identity, new website and webshop. Tomas Gustafsson, president and chief executive, said that 2021 was an exciting year for Flexiteek. “We are looking to build on 20 years of serving customers in over 48 countries around the world,” he said. The new website features an interactive deck designer where boatbuilders and owners can visualise over 30 diﬀerent colour combinations on a range of boats whilst the new webshop provides a single place for its global distributor network to view the company's entire range of synthetic teak decking and marine products. 24 | APRIL 2021

2020 was another recordbreaking year for Permateek with enquiries and orders unprecedented compared to previous years. And the trend seems to be continuing so far into 2021. “As a boat enthusiast myself, I can see the attraction of spending time out on a boat this year after spending so much time at home in 2020,” said MD Vince Coda. “Like most people, boat owners

have had holiday plans changed or cancelled and have therefore taken the opportunity to invest in upgrading their boats.” Due to the increase in demand, Permateek has made significant investment within the business, including purchasing additional production equipment that will enable output production capacity to double and new staﬀ hires. As part of its business

expansion plan, the company plans to move to larger facilities in Hampshire to increase production capacity. The new facility will triple the amount of floor space available compared to the company's current location. In addition, Permateek's marketing team has spent the past three months developing a new web site that highlights the 15 colours within the range, including the new popular

8 Boat owners are upgrading their boats with Permateek decking

multi-coloured options that were launched at boot Dusseldorf in 2020. The web site includes a deck configurator to provide users with an idea of how the coloured planks look when installed. There will also be a new gallery showing existing customer projects.

STYLISH HANDRAILS PROVE TIMELESS The owner of a Botnia Targa 46 Oﬀshore Motorboat has upgraded the standard wooden handrails with Timeless Tube's oval 316L stainless steel handrail, proving that stylish railings are not just for superyachts. Timeless, based in Poole in Dorset, created the world's first ever oval-shaped tubing for use as a handrail on a yacht more than 30 years ago. The company produces a range of tubing - flat oval, oval, twisted oval, twisted radiused square, radiused square, and D. The line includes common sizes for handrails, generally 32 to 50mm. “We've supplied oval tube handrail for many

8 Oval handrails are said to be more 'grabbable'

Photo: Timeless Tube

Wilks has released an updated version of its boat fendering system, designed with quick and simple installation in mind. Based on traditional 'D' profiles that require front fixing, the newly revised Click solution is suitable for all types of boats. The system consists of a rigid PVC track and flexible UV stabilised PVC body to provide a fendering system with hidden fixings that is easy to install without compromising on resistance to impact. Click has been designed to be fitted from bow to stern and will curve around an 80mm radius without pre-bending.

superyachts and luxury tenders over the years,” said MD and head engineer, Tom McMillan. “But we've never engineered railings for a boat like this before - the endresult is stunning." The wooden template of the boat's frame was

recreated enabling fabricators to make the correct compound curves in the handrails, as well as custom-make the tip-up gates with concealed hinges. “Wooden rails are somewhat dated and not very easy to maintain,” said

the boat owner. “So we designed and installed our own railings. 99.9% of boats have stainless steel round tube - bar superyachts. We've not seen any production boats fitted with oval tube. Oval tube feels far more tactile, it's just a much more friendly shape." In addition to being aesthetically superior, oval tube railings are less prone to slippage, explained Tom. “We recently made some gently contoured square grab rails for a luxury tender because they are more 'grabbable' and because they look so good,” he said.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

FITTING OUT: EXTERIOR

Beautiful Marine Floors has teamed up with Deck Fab to enable it to provide its own brand of synthetic PVC teak decking. The partnership means Deck Fab will provide the materials for Beautiful Marine Floors to then manufacture flooring according to templates provided by fitters. “We've tooled up to provide our own synthetic teak decking,” explained MD Victor Aspey. “We have our own sources of raw materials and are appointing other Beautiful Marine Floors reps in other countries. “We make the panels and roll products - roll products tend to be for interior use and panels for exterior use. Templates are sent to us and we then make the panels. Bathing platforms, side decks and cockpits are very popular.” And he explained that a range of colours are available, with teak and weathered teak the most popular. Another material Victor is seeing gaining in popularity is cork with its sustainable qualities. Eco-Deck products are constructed from a mix of cork and rubber, a combination that provides a cooler deck together with insulation properties. “In the past there's been a big problem with the supply of cork,” explained Victor. “It's been primarily used for wine bottles but now there's a trend away from that and cork is becoming more widely available. “It's a fantastic product with many advantages over PVC. It should be regarded as a mainstream product.” He added: “It's still got the stripes associated with teak, it looks similar to PVC, however it's major advantage is its cooling properties. It's a great insulator and can also be used for many diﬀerent purposes.” 26 | APRIL 2021

OCEAN FOOTPRINT INVESTS IN 3D SCANNING

Photo: Ocean Footprint

New brand of decking

Marine supplier, Ocean Footprint, is investing in 3D scanning technology to ensure its stainless steel railings are uniquely tailored to each client's needs. The company has been working with Midway Metals Marine on a number of projects, beginning with railings for two tri-deck 35m passenger ferries built at the

Wight Shipyard Company on the Isle of Wight. “As part of our alliance with Midway Metals, we have invested in 3D scanning capabilities,” said MD of Ocean Footprint, Peter Harrison. “We can feed back our findings to ensure that errors are caught early and resolved, this includes the corrected drawings being

passed back to the end user, and authorised before it is released and or reworked." The 3D scanning technology has a number of benefits, says Peter, allowing for easier design, inspection and reverse engineering. The company uses an Elite model made by Creaform, one of the few

8 Ocean Footprint uses 3D scanning for its railing design

technologies that uses blue laser technology which allows the scanning of bright materials such as stainless steel without the need for coatings. The scan detail can also be changed during the process so that diﬀerent areas can be scanned with diﬀerent resolutions.

NEW RETRACTING LIGHT FROM ACCON MARINE Accon Marine has developed pop-up bow lights that fold flush into the deck when not in use. A fingertip push springs the Pop-Up Combination Bow Light into its active position for immediate use. When no longer needed, the light retracts until flush with the deck, protecting the lamp from accidental impact damage. It is built from marine-grade 316 stainless steel and uses a standard 2.5W, 12V bulb. It is installed with three screws and a cutout template is included to facilitate installation. Each light measures 137mm x 89mm with a height of 44mm when in use. Accon also oﬀers an optional drain cup that installs below deck to help guard against water intrusion.

8 Acton Marine's Pop-Up Combination Bow Light has a height of 44mm when in use

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

FITTING OUT: EXTERIOR Davey & Co is continuing to expand its product portfolio throughout 2021. Sticking with its traditional product portfolio and range, products are based around UK manufacturing and predominantly gunmetal and brass products. New products for the external fit out include a Brass Spreader Light which will work on both 12V and 24V boats. The light is IP67 rated, with a LED 27-watt light. In addition, Davey has introduced new letters in polished stainless steel each 65mm in height that will complement cast brass 50mm letters also being introduced. The company has increased its focus on hardware attachment, with the introduction of stainlesssteel deck plates which are blind taped so they are water tight. These have stainless steel (M8, M10 and M12) threads and sit

PRODUCTS ARE CENTRED AROUND GUNMETAL AND BRASS

8 Bluefin's IYS controls a number of onboard systems

Simple yet sophisticated

alongside the existing cast gunmetal ones which have already proved popular. In addition, lockdown bolts in brass and chrome brass have also been introduced, ideal for tables, and ancillary mounting. Further new castings and products are planned throughout the year,

including a flush fitting step light with brass grill that is currently in the final stage of build. The light is LED powered 12/24V. “Even from the prototype, orders have been placed, and further developments are underway to incorporate a switch,” explained Davey MD Jeﬀ Webber.

8 Davey is introducing new products that match its heritage and client base

“The theme of new products has to match with our heritage and client base.” For METSTRADE in 2021 Davey will have its new catalogue ready, depicting the entire product range.

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For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

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Bluefin's new IYS (Intelligent Yacht System) module has been designed to provide a simple yet sophisticated and cost-eﬀective way of controlling all low-voltage lighting via any compatible MFD, mobile smart device or laptop. Six output channels are available, enabling the IYS to also control a number of other onboard systems, including pumps, motors, fans, wipers, horns, alarms and almost any DC load up to 10A per channel. “As Bluefin produces a wide range of high-quality underwater and signature yacht lighting, there is also a specific control output for changing lighting colours - submerged or otherwise,” added Mike Cook, Bluefin business development manager. “Features such as sound to light control on colour-changing lights, dimming, strobes, colour selection and various custom modes are also controlled from the vessel's MFD or mobile device.” The heart of the system is a controlling black box that can either be hardwired or connected via wi-fi to the onboard MFD. It also uses wi-fi to connect to a remote smart device and mirror an MFD on it, allowing music to be controlled, images to be viewed on any security cameras and alarms switched on or oﬀ. The IYS aims to be compatible with all brands of onboard electronics while being easy to install. APRIL 2021 | 27

PROFILE

WILL TAYLOR-JONES Fox's Marina and Boatyard MD

At 17, the philosophy of Fox's Marina and Boatyard MD, Will Taylor-Jones, was 'to have a good time; all the time'. Now in his fifties, Will's sentiment remains, but it's tempered with 'everything in moderation'. A desire to 'enjoy life' is in Will's genes; although his parents' career choices were not for him (accountant and teacher), he follows their passion for adventure and sailing. “We grew up in Essex my parents sailed dinghies and loved oﬀshore racing. Dad was an instinctive navigator and the family boat, a 28ft timber cruising yacht, was moored at Wrabness on the river Stour. In the summer, parents with three children in tow would wade through the mud, load our gear onto the yacht and head oﬀ to Holland for two weeks. As a child this was so exciting.” Like many teenagers, Will's ambition was to 'take over the world', but he soon realised playing bass guitar in a band wasn't going to help with this. He sailed with Wivenhoe Sailing Club and after taking part in the North Sea leg of the Tall ships Race in 1985, on a 45ft

8 Current projects at Fox's include a refit on the Queen's row barge, Gloriana

classic ocean racer, Will knew where his future lay. “I was 16, capable on a boat, with a real desire to do well. Having won our class I had a taste of success and wanted to do more.” Will enrolled at Lowestoft's International Boatbuilding Training College and here he found his niche. Leaving with a distinction, he was snapped up by Colchester Custom Boat Builders, working under his mentor, Geoﬀ Hunt. “Geoﬀ served time as a boat builder and ran the operation for Oyster's Richard Matthews. My first experience of the marine industry was building the wooden plug for the Oyster

68 hull mould - although under Geoﬀ's eye for quality, the finished plug could have gone to sea!” Acquisition A year later Will moved to Gosport, after being asked by an acquaintance to oversee the refit of Lloyd's Yacht Club's 55ft Lutine yacht at Camper & Nicholson's. “When completed, I spent a season skippering and hosting guests.” This experience proved invaluable; in 1989 Will secured a role commissioning Oyster yachts, coincidentally sitting in the same Ipswich oﬃce as he is now. Oyster acquired

Fox's in 1985, relocating the head oﬃce on site and investing in new facilities. No longer wanting to 'take over the world', Will nevertheless planned to see more of it, and spurred on by Australia's win of the Americas Cup some years earlier, he and wife Jenny, set oﬀ for a year in Aus. “We joined a crew in the 1990 Sydney Hobart Yacht race and once in Hobart, I found work as a boat builder.” Six months later, the pair were in Melbourne, building a composite Half Tonner with its designer. “This state-ofthe-art boat was probably one of the last IOR yachts ever built!” Further travels around Australia, a second Hobart and journeys through SE Asia followed, before arriving home two years later. Handover “I went back into commissioning for Oyster and spent six years learning more about big yachts, systems and the handover process.” Outside of work, Will sailed family boats to class wins in three Fastnet Races and the Round Britain & Ireland Race. In 1997 he built and raced a Whitbread 30, completing another 8 Fox's has undertaken its largest mast step to date for an Oyster 855

28 | APRIL 2021

Fastnet, prior to the arrival of children Sam and Issy in 1999 and 2002 prompting less oﬀshore racing. By 1999 Oyster was building yachts in three UK factories and Auckland, New Zealand. This led Will into a technical/quality manager's role, liaising between after-sales, design and production. Always keen for a challenge, over the next decade or so Will combined family life with business travel, renovating two houses and rebuilding two boats (Folkboat and Robb Lion classics). The family lived in a caravan for two winters while rebuilding their current family home in Holbrook. Refit When Richard Matthews sold Oyster in 2008, he retained Fox's Marina, enabling it to become more independent, albeit with Oyster as a key customer. In 2013, Will passed up on an oﬀer to move to Southampton, left Oyster and started at Fox's, succeeding Malcolm Westmorland as MD. “With around 120 berths, we have a big refit facility, and our 50-strong team of in house engineers, craftsmen, boat handlers, riggers, electricians and fabricators are busy with a robust order book.” Current projects, alongside large cruising yachts, include The Queen's Rowbarge Gloriana, Winston Churchill's funeral barge Havengore and a 52' carbon race boat. Proof that life turns full circle? Fox's is again a commissioning base for Oyster and undertakes its rigging. “This industry gives me a full and varied life, so it's no wonder I'm in my comfort zone around boats.”

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

PEOPLE: MOVEMENTS

Dr Benigna Brederlow

Safinah Group Yacht

John Parkes Bainbridge International

Luke Morrison Rooster

Dr Benigna Brederlow has joined the Safinah Group Yacht team as head of yacht. Benigna has worked within the superyacht coatings industry since 2008 and has been involved in projects regarding topcoat assessment, observing and analysing topcoat quality, monitoring performance and changes due to aging. She was a member of the working groups for the ICOMIA guideline and ISO 11347, developing standards for applicators, shipyards and owners. She also has completed the Registered Marine Coatings Inspectors (RMCI) course. “Benigna joins six additional new team members we were able to recruit throughout 2020, which expands and develops our dedicated, independent, coating specialists to over 50 people in yacht, marine, energy and infrastructure markets globally,” said MD Andy Hopkinson. Bainbridge International has appointed John Parkes to the position of senior account manager. John, a watersports enthusiast, has worked in the leisure marine industry for more than 25 years, starting his career in the South West as sales manager for Unipart Marine and latterly working as technical account manager for Marine Industrial. John will work on both the chandlery side of the business as well as taking care of some of the company's sail and cover accounts. “We are very pleased to have John on board. His wealth of knowledge and experience, in both the marine industry and our product oﬀering will give him the advantage of being able to pick up the challenge from day one,” said Andrew Smith, Bainbridge MD. “We have faced challenging times over the past 12 months, and it feels like a positive move to be hiring once again and we are eager to see what John can deliver in the coming months.” Luke Morrison has taken on the role of Rooster MD with responsibility for driving the business forward. Steve Cockerill will now take on the founder and chairman role of the organisation with a view to fostering and promoting broader opportunities within the company and the industry. Luke joined Rooster in 2013 and has been involved and working within the watersports industry for the past 15 years. His primary focus has been on developing sales and new opportunities, specifically overseeing a growth period in the company's distribution and stockist network, alongside activities worldwide including the start-up and development of Rooster USA and a fulfilment centre in Germany. More recently, Luke's role has developed into spending more time on the overall management of Rooster.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

Matt Gruar Ocean Safety

Paul Botterill Clamcleats

George Bovill MDL Marinas

Simon Cothill MDL Marinas

Ocean Safety has appointed Matt Gruar as southern commercial sales manager. He will support the company's customers within the shipping, commercial fishing, superyacht, ferry and shipbuilding sectors in the south of England region. Matt has more than 13 years' experience in the marine industry, latterly with Bainbridge International where he was responsible for commercial and industrial customers. He will work closely with existing customers in the area while developing new business opportunities. “I am delighted to welcome Matt to Ocean Safety,” said Ocean Safety's sales director Mark Acaster. “He joins us at a pivotal time for the business as we come out of the diﬃcult national lockdown. “His enthusiasm and drive will be vital to our success this year and he will be a huge asset to our sales team.” Paul Botterill has joined the Clamcleats team as marketing/business development manager. Paul has more than 36 years' experience of the leisure marine market working in both manufacturing and retail sectors. “Clamcleats Ltd has some ambitious plans for the future, and I am very excited to be part of them and I look forward to developing this with our customers,” he said. His appointment comes as Clamcleats introduces a second shift in its aluminium Die Cast department due to customer demand and investment in stock holding. The extra shift will allow the company to increase production by 98%. Les Robertson and George Bovill have joined MDL as regional operations managers, looking after MDL’s 19 marinas and boatyards between them. “My entire career has been about delivering exceptional customer service and I'm looking forward to developing a team to continue to up- hold MDL's brand values as well as take its service and operational standards to the next level,” said Les. George Bovill joins MDL with 18 years of customer service and operational experience. “As regional operations manager, one of my key focuses will be enhancing our customers' journey, from providing first class customer service to ensuring that all our marinas are beautifully presented and maintained,” he said. In addition, Simon Cothill has been promoted to marina manager at Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park, following two years as dock master at MDL's Ocean Village Marina. “I cannot wait to start this new chapter of my career with MDL,” he said. “I'm looking forward to getting to know our berth holders and holiday park guests.” APRIL 2021 | 29

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Editor Katina Read editor@boatingbusiness.com News Reporter Rebecca Jeﬀrey rjeﬀrey@mercatormedia.com Correspondents Please contact our correspondents at editor@boatingbusiness.com James Nolan; Alice Driscoll; Adam Bernstein Production Ian Swain, David Blake, Gary Betteridge production@mercatormedia.com SALES & MARKETING t +44 1329 825335 f +44 1329 550192

Media Sales Manager Kate Didymus kdidymus@boatingbusiness.com

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For Technical Information and Advice:

EDITORIAL & CONTENT

Head of Media Sales Louise Clarke lclarke@mercatormedia.com

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SAILING SCHOOLS

Marathon Leisure Ltd is ‘The Marine Distributor’ supplying the UK and Irish marine leisure markets. We proudly distribute many large brands and with support of our loyal ‘Stockists’.

ENGINES

CRADLES

Shakespeare UK Enterprise Way Fleetwood FY7 8RY 0044 (1) 253 858787 sales.office@jardenuk.co.uk

Distribution as it should be.

INSURANCE

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DIRECTORY: CLASSIFIED

Marketing marketing@mercatormedia.com Chief Executive Andrew Webster awebster@mercatormedia.com BB magazine is published monthly by Mercator Media Limited, Spinnaker House, Waterside Gardens, Fareham, Hants PO16 8SD UK t +44 1329 825335 f +44 1329 550192 info@mercatormedia.com www.mercatormedia.com Printed in the UK by Holbrooks Printers Ltd, Portsmouth PO3 5HX Subscriptions subscriptions@ boatingbusiness.com or subscribe online at www.boatingbusiness.com Also, sign up to the weekly BB E-Newsletter. 1 year’s magazine subscription Digital Edition: £84.50

A leading supplier of equipment to the Marine Industry

©Mercator Media Limited 2021. ISSN 2633-4003 (online) Boating Business is a trade mark of Mercator Media Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine can be reproduced without the written consent of Mercator Media Ltd. Registered in England, Company Number 2427909. Registered oﬃce: Spinnaker House, Waterside Gardens, Fareham, Hampshire, PO16 8SD

www.cquip.com +44 (0)845 2266953

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YACHTROPES.CO.UK

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

Southampton United Kingdom

Seawork is open for business – all year Reserve now for 2021. Make the most of marketing & PR support from Seawork and our leading commercial marine magazines, in print, online, eNews and via social media.

Europe’s leading commercial marine and workboat exhibition. Show your latest innovations in vessels, equipment and services to over 7,700 maritime professionals. 12,000m2 of exhibition halls featuring 600 exhibitors. 4ZIV ZIWWIPW ERH Ǳ SEXMRK TPERX. European Commercial Marine Awards (ECMAs) and Innovations Showcase.

Co-located with:

Also returning in 2021

Speed@Seawork For more information visit: seawork.com contact: +44 1329 825 335 or email: info@seawork.com IE[SVOȠǼȠȓ

Media partners:

BOATINGBUSINESS BOATING BUSINESS & MARINE TRADE NEWS

Supported by:

Distributors Of Marine & Industrial Equipment LUTON | HAMBLE | PLYMOUTH | GLASGOW

Inverter/Chargers & Inverters

Digital Control & Monitoring

Battery Chargers

Battery Management

Isolation Transformers Lithium Ion, Gel & AGM Batteries Alternators & Regulators

Supporting your complete electrical system package & technical design.

sales@aquafax.co.uk

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