Pacific PowerBoat Nov Dec 2023

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

T R A I L E R B O AT S | L A U N C H E S | C R U I S E R S

RIVIE RA 5 8 5 SU V

RIVIERA 585 SUV

Blending the best of all worlds in luxury, elegant styling & performance.

POWERBOATMAG AZIN E . C O . N Z

Also Reviewed HIGHFIELD E JET 330 VICEM 55 CLASSIC NIMBUS T8 ILIAD 53S

I VI C E M 5 5 C L A S S I C I N I M BU S T8 I ILI AD 5 3 S

NZ MARINE ELECTRONIC HUB

Kiwis punching above their weight in marine electronic development

I H I G H F I EL D E J ET 3 30

A tribute to our late powerboat Guru:

BARRY THOMPSON NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 $12.90 INCL GST

KIWI TRAILER BOATS

Part 1: The 1950s Decade

TARGETING

Summer Kingfish

• An introduction to PWC’s • 2024 models just released

PR ESENCE A ND POISE. The all new S75 sedan motor yacht combines a synergy of balanced proportions, grace and purpose with an immensity of deck and interior spaces to cater for a vast range of entertaining, relaxation, or adventuring activities. Australian built, its powerful exterior form and grand luxurious interior reset the international standard for cruising sedan motor yachts. maritimo.com.au

S75

Unmatched Seaworthiness

(Get back to port and still be married)

Available in 34ʼ, 42’, 54’ & 68’ The hull shape has been developed by fishermen over generations to handle big seas in comfort. All models have a European Category A certification, which is for seas of 4m or more, and force 8 (40 knots) winds. Ideal for New Zealand conditions.

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Sasga Yachts Australasia Bruce McGill – Sales Director | 021 748 437 | bruce@sasgayachts.nz Ernest Henshaw – Director | 021 669 133 | ernest@sasgayachts.nz Leighton Henshaw – Director | 027 444 6572 | leighton@sasgayachts.nz

Sasga 42 – available ex-Auckland now

sasgayachts.nz

C O N T E N T S ISSUE 74

REVIEWS 52

68

RIVIERA 585 SUV

VICEM 55 CLASSIC

84

NIMBUS T8

FEATURES 114

Barry Thompson visited their impressive ultramodern facility in China

Kiwis punch above their weight when it comes to electrical engineering and electronic products - we take a look

76

THE HISTORY OF KIWI TRAILER BOATS BY THE DECADES Looking Back Part One - The 1950s

90

PEOPLE IN BUSINESS – MARITIMO

Maritimo’s 20 Anniversary - Chapter 2 th

94

BARRY THOMPSON

We pay tribute to the late great powerboat guru, Barry Thompson, following his recent unexpected passing

100

PRODUCT EVALUATION

Seakeeper Ride - Doug Dukeson got a chance to get out on the water at the Sydney Boat Show and report back

6 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

134

ILIAD 53S

HIGHFIELD E JET 330

REGULARS

60

AQUILA CATAMARANS

104

THE NZ MARINE ELECTRONIC HUB

124

COASTGUARD EDUCATION

Navigating the waters of NZ - A guide to the rules of the road

128

KINGFISH – SUMMER TARGET Fishing in Godzone’s editor Matt Hewetson looks at three ways to target Kingfish over summer

140

PWC - UPGRADED MODELS, COLOUR & TECHNOLOGY We take a look at the 2024 line up from the 3 major players in the PWC market

148

AN INTRODUCTION TO PWC’S

Doug Dukeson reports on what to look for when buying a PWC

8

46

Cross between an aircraft carrier and a luxury yacht

Derek the Chef, prepares Grilled Salmon Risotto with Avocado Capsicum Oil

DESIGN FOCUS: UAE ONE MEGAYACHT

10

PUBLISHER’S COMMENT

The sudden death of our powerboat hero

12

SEEN & ADMIRED Princess X80 Elite Marine’s 3 new launchings

16

NEWS

News, new products, boats and events

42

POWER ON

New products for the powerboating world

44

ELECTRONICS COLUMN

Hot new electronics products from some of the world’s leading brands

STRAIGHT FROM THE GALLEY

48

PHIL GILBERT Surveys - the other perspective

50

HIGH HEELS TO SEA BOOTS

Women owning the helm

112

FLETCH’S TIPS

Aaron Fletcher shares his tips learned after years of getting it right and getting it wrong

WHATEVER LIES AHEAD...

T R A I L E R B O AT S | L A U N C H E S | C R U I S E R S

RIVIERA 585 SUV

Blending the best of all worlds in luxury, elegant styling & performance.

NZ MARINE ELECTRONIC HUB

Kiwis punching above their weight in marine electronic development

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Also Reviewed HIGHFIELD E JET 330 VICEM 55 CLASSIC NIMBUS T8 ILIAD 53S

KIWI TRAILER BOATS Part 1: The 1950s Decade

TARGETING

A tribute to our late powerboat Guru:

Summer Kingfish

BARRY THOMPSON NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 $12.90

ORLD’S THE W BOAT NG LEADI RER! INSU

• An introduction to PWC’s • 2024 models just released

INCL GST

ISSUE #74 RIVIERA 585 SUV

THOUSAND REASONS, ONE PARTNER

SEE PAGE 52

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 7

UAE ONE MEGAYACHT DESIGN FOCUS _UAE ONE MEGAYACHT

Stunning $543m UAE One Megayacht - cross between an aircraft carrier and a luxury yacht.

8 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

“The idea of UAE One was born in 2020, during a very special meeting between me and a sheikh of the United Arab Emirates on vacation in Italy. The sheikh was very clear and categorical, he wanted something really special and unique.”

A

UAE-inspired mega-yacht was designed as the flagship craft of the country, says Italian boat designer Enzo Manca. The Milan-based boat designer said the 140m long concept ship was created with the nation in mind and has christened it the UAE One. Although the yacht is currently only in the planning stage, Manca says a sheikh in the United Arab Emirates helped to design the boat. “The idea of UAE One was born in 2020, during a very special meeting between me and a sheikh of the United Arab Emirates on vacation in Italy,” Manca is quoted as saying. “The sheikh was very clear and categorical, he wanted something really special and unique.”

The concept is a stunning yacht complete with luxury touches.

It will have 35 cabins for crew, five super-suites, eight master cabins and three meeting rooms. The vast size is based on US aircraft carriers, but a finish is more akin to a luxury yacht. “This very particular project is inspired by the large US aircraft carriers.

A work that lasted almost two years, including the study of the bow lines, the upper deck, the tower, and how it could become from a military ship to a private yacht.” said Manca.

The bow of the UAE One concept has a circular sofa with a central fireplace. Very much still a concept, Manca revealed interior designs and renders would be published later in the year.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 9

PUBLISHERS COMMENT _ DOUG DUKESON

PACIFIC

PUBLISHER D&B Publishing Ltd EDITORIAL TEAM Barry Thompson, Ron Czerniak, Richard Milner, Doug Dukeson, Derek the Chef, Mike Rose, Carla Dukeson, Rebecca Hayter, Phil Gilbert, Aaron Fletcher editorial@boatmags.com +64 9 428 2328

BARRY THOMPSON 13 May 1951 – 8 September 2023

ADVERTISING New Zealand & Australia Doug Dukeson +64 9 428 2328 +64 21 772 202 doug@boatmags.com Holly Dukeson +64 21 028 66849 holly@boatmags.com PRODUCTION Annabelle Rose Design +64 27 427 4559 design@annabellerose.co.nz Printer: SCG WEBSITE Stealth Media Ltd Gustav Wentzel +64 21 0201949 info@stealthmedialtd.co.nz ACCOUNTS accounts@boatmags.com +64 9 428 2328 CIRCULATION Are Direct NZ +64 9 979 3018 Are Direct Aust +61 2 99728886 SUBSCRIPTIONS (Printed & Digital) subs@boatmags.com Pacific PowerBoat is published bi-monthly January, March, May, July, September, November REGISTERED OFFICE 2 McKenzie Ave, Arkles Bay, Whangaparaoa, Auckland, New Zealand.

POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 886 Whangaparaoa, Auckland 0930, New Zealand.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ All rights reserved. Reprinting in whole or part is expressly forbidden, except by written permission of the publisher.

Printed in New Zealand ISSN 2230-4134 (Printed) ISSN 2230-4142 (Online)

I

THE SUDDEN DEATH OF OUR POWERBOAT HERO!

t is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing on Friday 8th September, of industry stalwart and friend, Barry Thompson. Wow what can I say… I, like most, have been taken by surprise of our loss, both on a professional and personal level. I have also been totally blown away by the number of calls, texts, emails and messages from the industry and mates, on the days following since and over the past few weeks.

To me, Barry was many things - a friend, a business partner, a councillor and an inspiration, but most of all…. a bloody good mate! And after working together for 35 years, one could not be anything else but a great mate… with the past 26 years tied as business partners… I cannot think of another business partnership in the marine industry that comes close to this.

We had many laughs and much fun along the way visiting boat shows around the world, with Sydney this year being my first without him in 26 years. There could be many stories to be told, in fact a book of our adventures could easily be written, but that might get a few in trouble.

Many did not know, but Barry had been wanting to enjoy a little more R&R time and to be freed up from the business, after 50 years of tickling away at his marine keyboard.

About this time last year, Carla (my wife) and I agreed to purchase Barry’s ½ of the business. For the last six months he had been enjoying a little more freedom and less responsibility in running the magazine. He would often call me while out fishing – ribbing me, that he was poaching fish from my side of the peninsula, in Arkles Bay! Barry passed away on the morning of the 8th September, with his mind again, clearly focused on one of his passions. He had prepared his boat and loaded the fishing gear, ready to go out to his happy place.

Barry loved his wife and family, along with travelling and boat shows, he loved boats and everything about them and with 50 years plus ‘playing’ with them, reviewing them, racing them, no one knew more... he is undoubtedly our lifetime’s PowerBoat guru – and will be sadly missed by the industry, our readers, friends and family.

We have compiled a feature on pages 94-98 of Barry’s milestones, adventures, accomplishments and what he has done for the marine industry…

Rest in Peace, Barry

10 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

The RivieRa SpoRT YachT

Platinum Edition luxury with grand tourer performance Elegant styling, luxurious single-level living, and heritage sea-keeping capabilities will inspire. Platinum means superior appointments, greater luxury and brilliant aesthetics. Engineering excellence and smart technology merge to make boating more enjoyable and all supported by an industry-leading extended warranty program. Uniquely Riviera, and created for your ultimate boating experience.

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SEEN & ADMIRED _ PRINCESS X80

PRINCESS X80

The sister ship to the Princess X95 superyacht, the Princess X80 is the second member of the X Class ‘Superfly’ family and encompasses beautifully sculptured surfaces with long flowing design lines.

F

rom afar, she is clearly identifiable by her extended flybridge deck and enclosed wheelhouse, creating quite the impression on the water. The Princess X80 super flybridge provides in excess of 30% more useful interior space onboard than a traditional flybridge yacht, covering the full length of the vessel.

The X80 has been optimised both above and below the deck, with economically-minded engineering and design creating not only a comfortable ride, but excellent seakeeping and impressive cruising distance. Adventure is at the forefront of this craft, providing the opportunity to discover more and explore cruising grounds further afield with a 7,000 litre fuel tank.

The stature of the Princess X80 is impressive.

Her increased bulwarks, topsides and enclosed wheelhouse define her proud personality. Her ‘S’ shaped canopy flows seamlessly through her flybridge deck, creating balance and

12 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

cleverly disguising the expansive volume of the sky lounge, with wrap-around views and flexible seating.

Her interior is just as captivating, with the outside welcomed in via the large windows which flow either side of the entire length of the main deck, encasing the saloon, galley and forward dining area. Completed in walnut with statin finish, this timeless and luxurious finish will look stunning for years to come.

The use of natural and ambience lighting, innovative design and exquisite materials are combined here to create an idyllic space in which to while your time. Below deck, 8 guests are accommodated across 4 guest cabins, each with their own private en-suite.

A full-beam master stateroom is located amidships, with the optional main stateroom fitted on the main deck. Located aft of the main guest accommodation is the crew quarters which can accommodate 2 crew with their own private crew mess area.

SPECIFICATIONS Overall Length 25.18m Beam 6.06m Draft 1.78m Displacement 62,500kg Fuel Capacity 7,000L Water Capacity 1400L Berths 10 Engines Twin MAN V12-1900 Top Speed 31 Knots Year 2024

For the full option list on this vessel contact: Sports Marine (New Zealand)

SPORTSMARINE.CO.NZ Princess Yachts Australia (Australia)

PRINCESSYACHTS.COM.AU

IMPECCABLE HERITAGE.

“The Tristram 821 Offshore is built from an impeccable heritage and puts a new perspective on trailer boat luxury. Designed by CAD, the 821 Offshore epitomises what this brand is all about. If you desire to own an outstanding example of Kiwi trailer boat craftsmanship with performance to match, I say it’s well worth the wait to have one built by the team of memory creators at Tristram Marine Both a family cruiser and a sportsfisher, the 821 Offshore is the ultimate all-rounder.”

Words by Barry Thompson.

Forever respected, admired and appreciated by Team Tristram.

Tristram 821 Offshore / Available in Twin Outboard or Diesel Sterndrive

SHOWROOM - SERVICE CENTRE - PRODUCTION PLANT

5 Udy Place, Te Rapa Park, Hamilton, NZ Te Rapa Expressway Exit SH1 pacificpowerboat@tristram.co.nz / +64-7-849-5225

PREMIUM OFFSHORE TRAILER BOATS / WWW.TRISTRAM.CO.NZ

SEEN & ADMIRED _ ELITE’S NEW LAUNCHINGS

Elite Bliss

Elite Hijack

Elite Zaphira

ELITE’S NEW LAUNCHINGS It has been a busy year for Elite Marine design with three new custom builds hitting the water plus another Elite AT 43.

F

irst of these was the 15.8m sedan ‘Bliss’ built in Opua by Blue Fix Boat works powered by twin Cummins QSB 485hp retuning 30kts. Bliss features a full width master stateroom and ensuite which is cleverly incorporated into this lowprofile design, Bliss also has a tender garage for a 3m tender. Finishing timber is high gloss Walnut. Look for the full boat review in the next issue of PowerBoat magazine.

Following a few months later was the 18m Mid Pilothouse ‘Zaphira’ from Lloyd Stevenson B/B. She is a stunning looking

14 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

vessel with her Aroura metallic hull color.

Power comes from twin MAN i6 800hp and has Twin Disc EJS docking system making manovering and berthing easy for the owners. Zaphira has an effortless cruise of 21kt and a sprint speed approaching 30kts fully laden. Fit out is outstanding and luxurious with Oak timber joinery.

Weber Marine of Gulf Harbour have just launched the 15.8m Mid pilothouse ‘Hijack’ which is fully rigged for sport fishing and family cruising, Hijacks power comes from twin D8 Volvo Pentas rated

at 600hp returning 29kt sprint speed, Her interior joinery is Oak stained to a rich deep color enhancing the grain highlighted by the modern contemporary colors and fabrics Hijack is loaded with Simrad electronics and has a full Czone electrical control system.

Elite Marine Design have a further 4 custom builds under construction at present with steady inquiry for future designs.

ELITEMARINE.CO.NZ

FOLLOW OUR STORY @SMUGGLERMARINE

004SM

FOLLOW OUR STORY @SMUGGLERMARINE

INFO@SMUGGLER.CO.NZ

INFO@SMUGGLER.CO.NZ

+64 9 838 9024

SMUGGLER.CO.NZ

+64 9 838 9024

SMUGGLER.CO.NZ

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

NEW ZEALAND MARINE INDUSTRY HITS $3 BILLION

The marine industry is now worth $3 billion annually to the New Zealand economy, achieving around $2.2 billion in local sales, and $800 million in exports. This was among new statistics that showed the size and growth of the industry released at the recent NZ Marine industry conference held in Tauranga, by Executive Director Peter Busfield.

Other new statistics showed the number of apprentices in boatbuilding and related trades has reached 650, and more than 5500 boats are expected to be built this year — the vast majority trailer boats between 3.5 and 8m.

From left to right: BIA Australia President Andrew Fielding, NZ Marine Membership and Communications Manager Caroline Gibson, NZ Marine President Garry Lock, ICOMIA President Darren Vaux, NZ Marine Executive Director Peter Busfield and Conference MC Ross Blackman.

“T

hese are exciting times, and no doubt some major developments lie ahead,” says Busfield. “One thing that hasn’t changed, though, is how much Kiwis value their boating healthy lifestyle — 1.9 million people are regularly out on the water making boating New Zealand’s most popular recreational activity.

Our industry is in good heart, and we’re ready to push ahead into the future and build on our tradition of innovation and success.”

More than 130 people involved in the industry, from throughout New Zealand and Australia, came together in Tauranga in August for two days of presentations, panel discussions, networking, and brainstorming focusing on what boating and the marine industry will look like in 2034. Attendees brought with them innovative ideas, and

16 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

the conference vibe demonstrated the New Zealand marine industry is in good heart and is facing an exciting future.

In opening the conference, President Garry Lock said, it was great to finally have so many of the industry gathered to celebrate successes and look into the future.

“Although we have remained a tight group throughout all the disruptions of the past few years, it was fantastic to finally be back together in one place, talking about all aspects of our industry,” Lock says. “This year we had a real focus on sharing ideas and talking about the common challenges we face and opportunities — coming up with some innovative solutions to take the industry strongly into the future.”

Focus on the future was also evident in the ‘Boating in 2034’ breakout session, where

delegates were tasked with brainstorming challenges around key issues affecting the future of the industry, such as the impacts of political, environmental, and economic issues, generational changes in boating use, and opportunities provided by new technologies and manufacturing methods. “Some of the key themes coming through were an increase in boat-sharing, syndication or chartering for recreational use, increasing use of technology on board to enhance the boating experience, and environmental awareness,” says Busfield.

“The new generation of boaties want quick and easy access to go boating, cleaner power sources, and sustainable build materials in the boats they are using. They are also interested in maximising technology to achieve those goals.”

NZMARINE.COM

OFFSHORE RACING CALENDAR Hot Off the Press! 2023/24 Season Race Dates

MARSDEN COVE 2 DEC

LAKE TAUPO 28 JAN

WELLINGTON 3 FEB

TAIPA 17 FEB

WHITIANGA 2 MARCH

NAPIER 16 MARCH

GULF HARBOUR MARINA - NOW OPEN FOR SKIPPERI MEMBERS Skipperi is dropping anchor at Gulf Harbour Marina, with boats ready for your next adventure now.

G

et ready to conquer the waves as Skipperi introduces its subscription service at Gulf Harbour Marina! Limited spots will be available initially, so don't miss your chance to secure your spot. With our comprehensive training, you'll be confidently cruising the waters in no time. Whether you're a seasoned captain or a first-time adventurer, our expert guidance ensures you're fully prepared to navigate the open waters starting in October. Looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy boating without the worries of ownership? Skipperi has got you covered! Our boating-sharing service takes care of all the time-consuming and costly aspects of owning a boat, allowing you to focus on discovering new adventures! Secure your spot today! SKIPPERI.NZ

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 17

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

PIONEERING SUSTAINABILITY NZ’S INNOVATIVE MARINE PRODUCTS

In New Zealand, dedication to environmental protection is deeply ingrained in the national identity. The integration of innovation and environmental diligence is also built into New Zealand’s companies and brands, particularly in the marine industry, where environmental conservation plays a pivotal role. Marine brands like ZeroJet, with their all-electric propulsion systems, and Propspeed, with their biocide-free foul-release coatings, stand as global leaders in placing sustainability at the forefront of their business.

Z

eroJet stands as a prime example of New Zealand brands’ commitment to sustainable practices by placing environmental consciousness at the centre of all its business decisions and practices.

They design and manufacture electric jet propulsion systems for tenders and RIBs that are powerful, quiet and sustainable.

The company’s world-leading plug-andplay system is fast to install, enabling boatbuilders to seamlessly transition to electric power. The ZeroJet team is highly committed to leading the charge towards environmentally conscious boating, simplifying the switch for boatbuilders and helping them tap into the growing consumer demand for more sustainable boating.

With an ambitious vision, the ZeroJet leadership team aspires to eliminate the need for combustion engines on the water, revolutionizing the marine industry with their innovative, planet-friendly solutions.

EV Maritime takes a bold and innovative approach to promoting sustainable solutions 18 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

for pressing challenges. Headquartered in Auckland, EV Maritime is a cleantech design, engineering, and technology company on a mission to decarbonize the harbour cities of the world. Central to this goal is the development and delivery of electric ferries, supporting boat builders around the world in their transition to high-quality electric boat construction.

The first two vessels of EV Maritime’s EVM200 design will be launched in 2024.

The carbon-fiber catamaran vessels are designed to bring a new level of efficiency to passenger ferry operations, enabling electrification to be applied to longer, faster, and more frequent ferry services.

In addition to its two-decade track record in protecting the performance of running gear, underwater metals, and niche areas on vessels worldwide, Propspeed’s biocidefree foul-release coatings deliver unique benefits to boaters and vessel operators that support the important mission of marine preservation. Instead of killing marine

growth with toxins and further contributing to negative environmental impacts, the Propspeed system creates a hydrophobic surface that insulates the coated area and prevents marine growth from attaching to all coated underwater assets. Any minimal growth that does form is washed away as soon as the propeller spins and water movement occurs over the coating. This reduces the spread of invasive species from location to location, delivers sustained vessel performance and reduced fuel burn, resulting in less emissions released over the lifetime use of a vessel.

The New Zealand marine sector is highly regarded in the global industry, renowned for producing high-quality products across various marine categories. Characterized by a steadfast dedication to innovation and advanced technology, New Zealand will continue to produce world-leading marine products and services across all sectors, reinforcing its position as a key player in the global maritime landscape.

VIADUCT EVENTS CENTRE AND JELLICOE HARBOUR

W W W. AU C K L A N D - B OATS H O W. C O M

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

SPORTS MARINE WINS PRESTIGIOUS TITLE 2023 NIMBUS BOATS GLOBAL DEALER OF THE YEAR At the 2023 Nimbus Boats annual dealer conference held in Croatia, Sports Marine was honoured to receive the “Global Dealer of the Year” award, surpassing 153 other dealers across 40 countries to claim the top prize.

This award recognised Sports Marine's exceptional dedication, commitment, and success in promoting and selling Nimbus Boats, a brand renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design in the boating world.

“S

ports Marine stands out as one of our premier dealers, consistently achieving top marks in every aspect of our partnership. Their commitment to customer satisfaction, robust sales performance, well-defined business growth strategy, proactive expansion into new markets, effective marketing initiatives, and, crucially, their steadfast adherence to our payment terms and meticulous management of logistics all contribute to their outstanding performance” – Jonas Gothberg, Commercial Director Nimbus Group.

Sports Marine has proudly been Nimbus Boats dealers for the last six years, during

which we have successfully sold over 70 boats across Australia and New Zealand.

“The Nimbus range fits perfectly within our unique waterways across New Zealand and Australia. From Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown to Rottnest Island in Western Australia, there is a Nimbus model to suit every market. The brand's unparalleled quality, attention to detail, and clever design choices have made it a favourite among our customers.” Jack Ludemann, Marketing Manager, Sports Marine.

“First, I would like to thank our loyal customers, whose support and trust in Sports Marine has been key to our international success. Their confidence in

us to deliver the boat of their dreams is truly humbling and not something that we take lightly. When you buy from Sports Marine, you are not just purchasing a boat but becoming part of the Sports Marine family. Finally, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated staff across Australia and New Zealand. Your commitment and passion for the marine industry from service to sales, stands out to help us deliver the very best customer experience. Awards like this are a testament to all our hard work.” Scott Williamson, Managing Director, Sports Marine.

SPORTSMARINE.COM/BRANDS/ NIMBUS

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PREMIER SHIPPING • Specialist Worldwide Shipping of Boats and Marine Equipment •

E-propulsion, a global leader and market challenger in marine electric propulsion systems and services, has been selected to power the latest models in Highfield Boats electric tender range. The expanding range features three new all-electric Classic models – CL310E, CL360E and CL380E, powered by ePropulsion’s Navy Series, known for providing efficient and clean power in both salt and freshwater.

DB734

E-PROPULSION POWERS HIGHFIELD BOATS’ ELECTRIC TENDER RANGE

Contact us for a quote: Nigel Black, Trade Manager – Projects and Marine P: +64 9488 5836 M: +64 21 909 703 E: nigelb@oceanbridge.co.nz

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Members of: NZ Marine Export Group NZ Marine Industry Assn

H

ighfield Boats has chosen ePropulsion’s 3kW Navy 3.0 Evo to power the CL310E, which has a range of up to 49 miles, while the other two models are powered by the 6kW Navy 6.0 Evo, whose range extends to 72 miles. Both motors are brushless and direct drive, ensuring the range benefits from the high reliability, low maintenance and low operating noise of this technology, as well as being lightweight, compact and environmentally friendly.

The Classic tenders are finished to a very high quality with double decking to keep feet dry. Their renowned aluminium hulls coupled with full-length keel guards make them ideal for pulling up to the beach on a trip out with friends and family.

“We are thrilled to be a part of Highfield Boats’ journey to expand the offer of electric propulsion,” said Danny Tao, Co-Founder and CEO of ePropulsion. “These new tenders are incredibly exciting and offer an on-the-water experience that is unique, fun and ecofriendly. With the inclusion of three new zero-emission models to the ever-expanding Classic E range, eco-conscious boaters have their choice of tender as our partnership with Highfield continues to meet various needs of the marine market.”

“We are proud of introducing the clean footprint of the Classic E series to our tender range,” said Mathilde Delfour, Managing Director Europe, Highfield Boats. “We developed these latest three models in response to the acclaim we received from the CL340, and customer demand for a greater variety of sizes. The introduction of electric boats is one of many steps that we are taking to balance environmental responsibility with the enjoyment of boating.”

EPROPULSION.COM

Cule hatches are proudly made in NZ so we can customise to your needs and supply any parts.

Easy online purchasing backed by friendly local customer service and a manufacturers warranty.

Get in touch to discuss your next project.

Call 09 835 9706 or visit culemarine.co.nz POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 21

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

RIVIERA HOSTS TWO EUROPEAN PREMIERES OF NEW SUV MODELS AT CANNES Australia’s luxury motor yacht builder, Riviera, recently showcased the European premieres of two new models from its highly popular SUV Collection, the 465 and 505, at the recent Cannes Yachting Festival.

T

he 465 and 505 SUVs share a strong heritage that combine the spirited blue-water performance and open water sports cockpit of the Riviera Sports Motor Yacht Collection with the singlelevel living, entertaining and relaxation spaces of their Sport Yachts. The Riviera SUV concept has been widely celebrated since the first model, the 445, was launched in 2012, and now includes seven models,

from 39 to 64 feet in length. The showcase also included the popular 4600 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition.

Riviera Australia owner Rodney Longhurst said that Riviera and their European representatives were proud to display these magnificent yachts from Riviera's diverse six model collections from 39 to 78 feet, where every yacht shares a 43-year tradition

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of evolution and blue-water pedigree.

"We take great pride in the history and popularity that Riviera has enjoyed with European yacht owners since 1985, when our first yacht was delivered to France.

The ownership of a new Riviera motor yacht comes with the peace of mind offered by industry-leading support.

RIVIERAAUSTRALIA.COM

Elite Elite 18m SFSF Elite18m 18mSF

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Custom Custom design Sedan, Mid-Pilothouse and Sportsfisher Motor Yachts Customdesign designSedan, Sedan,Mid-Pilothouse Mid-Pilothouseand andSportsfisher SportsfisherMotor MotorYachts Yachts

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22 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

ANURA REPRESENTED AT PRESTIGIOUS INTERNATIONAL EVENT

Anura, a global leader in amphibious technology, was proudly represented at a high-profile international presentation organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

This distinguished event spotlighted Auckland's economic and social strengths while shedding light on business and investment prospects in the region.

Anura's participation marked a significant milestone in promoting New Zealand's marine sector on the global stage.

P

eter Busfield, representing NZ Marine, delivered a presentation on the NZ Marine Industry during a meeting at Orams Marine on September 19th, 2023.

Anura created a promotional video for inclusion that underscored the significance of New Zealand's thriving marine industry.

This international event gathered countries from diverse corners of the globe, and Anura was honoured to represent New Zealand's flourishing

marine sector on this prestigious platform.

Anura fully supports opportunities to share the remarkable accomplishments and prospects within New Zealand's marine industry with the global community.

The company aimed to facilitate valuable connections between New Zealand and its international counterparts.

ANURA.NZ

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 23

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

NIMBUS W9 DAY CRUISER FOR AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE The W9 is intended for those seeking a well-equipped, somewhat faster day cruiser with typical Nimbus DNA; a boat for those who value functional Scandinavian design, simplicity, safety, security and attention to details.

T

he W9’s hull is long, with a sharp bow section and a relatively flat hull at the stern. The Nimbus development team has purposely made every effort to maintain a low centre of gravity and to obtain a beneficial length-to-width ratio that causes the boat to take a certain wavelength and cover the ocean safely. The new hull makes the W9 fast, with a maximum speed of +40 knots. A reinterpretation of the classic Nimbus day cruiser, the W9

is a high-speed day cruiser and weekend boat for social activities, offering overnight accommodation for 4 people.

The W9 features the prize-winning Nimbus Sidewalk design. This provides the boat with generous space for its size and also makes it safe to move around the boat and foredeck. Clear walkways around the entire boat increase safety and provide a sense of security both in port and at sea. The

cockpit provides protection for everyone on board with its large window screen. The interior layout and furniture arrangement is specially designed for social activities and entertaining in a variety of situations. One significant asset of the W9 is the unusual ease with which it can change use, for example when it’s time to take a dip after a meal on board.

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SAFEGUARD YOUR VESSEL - 5 REASONS TO CHOOSE VIPER WINCH

Most boatie’s adventures aren’t limited by weather conditions.

That’s why all Viper drum winch models (excluding Pro Series) are IP67-rated, fully submersible, ensuring reliability in even the harshest marine environments.

B

oatie’s can tailor an anchoring setup with customizable rope and chain packs. No two boating experiences are the same, and with Viper, you have the flexibility to choose what suits you best. Viper’s bracket design offers variable mounting options, allowing you to adapt the winch to your boat’s unique layout.

With a 5-year warranty, Viper stand by the quality of their products, ensuring you can navigate any waters with confidence.

Local service technicians know Viper winches inside out and can help with any after sales servicing and technical support. There are four sizes available. Micro - Suits vessels 4m to 6m in length.

Rapid - Suits vessels 5.7m to 8m in length. Gravity Feed- Suits vessels 5.7m to 8m in length. Pro Series - Suits vessels 8m to 9.5m in length.

KIWIYACHTING.CO.NZ

RAYGLASS BOATS PRESIDENT DEAN HARRIS

Harris joined Brunswick in 2002 and most recently served as the Regional Manager for Mercury Marine in New Zealand for the last 16 years.

H

arris has more than two decades of marine sales experience and previously served as a national sales manager for MAC boats prior to joining Brunswick. His experience leading various teams throughout his tenure will be an asset for continued multi-brand coordination among Rayglass, Mercury Marine, Boston Whaler, Navico Group and all Brunswick brands in the Asia Pacific region.

“I am thrilled for the opportunity to join the Brunswick Boat Group division and lead the team at Rayglass,” said Dean Harris, President of Rayglass. “I am confident my experience working directly with customers for so long gives me a unique perspective into the wants and needs of boaters. I am excited to lean into that as we continue the legacy of excellence in design and performance Rayglass is known for.”

FLEMING YACHT’S 85 PROGRESS UPDATE In December of 2020, Fleming Yachts announced the beginning of a new flagship - the Fleming 85 - to a resounding response from their Fleming owners and to the yachting media. The F85 was to be the finest semi-displacement raised pilothouse cruising yacht in the world with ocean-crossing range. Since the initial renderings were first introduced, there have been 7 Fleming 85's ordered, the first 3 of which are either already out cruising or getting ready to be.

"W

e have had tremendous success with the launch of the Fleming 85," said Duncan Cowie of the Fleming shipyard. "The feedback we have received from the owners who are out cruising on their boat has all been very positive and we look forward to staying in touch with them throughout their travels. As you know, Fleming rarely introduces a new model, however we are constantly examining and improving each yacht we build through extensive owner feedback."

Fleming 85 hull #001 is cruising the east coast of the U.S. with the new owners and hull #002 is underway in the Mediterranean.

Hull #003 is being commissioned at the Burr Yacht Sales facility in Maryland, while hull #004 is in the final testing phase and floating in our purpose-built tank at the shipyard.

Because of the demand for the F85, Fleming have invested in a new production facility strictly dedicated to the new model. It is located in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, close to the harbour. "We have personally invested in this new facility," said Adi Shard of the Fleming shipyard. "This gives us a level of control over how the facility is run, which gives us a great advantage when it comes to quality control."

"Our existing customers wanted to be able to travel farther and explore far flung places, while being completely selfsufficient," continued Duncan. "We didn't want to have a long list of options that owners had to choose in order to make the F85 capable of long-distance cruising. Every piece of major equipment is standard on the F85, including the lithium-ion house battery bank which is 1,400 amp hours capacity, and 12kW of inverter power - all standard.”

“Dean’s promotion to president of Rayglass speaks to the level of talent we are fortunate to foster and the growth opportunities across the Brunswick enterprise,” said Lenn Scholz, President of Boston Whaler. “I know Dean’s extensive product development and directto-consumer experience will propel Rayglass into the next era of growth and innovation.”

The Fleming 85 will be the first Fleming model offered in both open and enclosed flybridge versions. "Hull #003 is the first enclosed bridge design which has opened up a newer market for us," said Adi. "We hope to have an F85 available for display at one of the upcoming Boat Shows, but we are not going to rush the commissioning of the boat and the owner training," he continued. So, for now, the boat show premiere of the F85 is still undetermined. Adi Shard will be present at FLIBS to discuss any aspects of the Fleming 85, or our other models, with the public.

RAYGLASS.CO.NZ

FLEMINGYACHTS.COM POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 25

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

STELLA ACQUIRES AUSTRALIAN DAVITS & CRANES

Stella Marine, a cutting-edge design, engineering and manufacturing company servicing the marine industry has purchased Australian Davits & Cranes (ADC).

This strategic move reinforces Stella’s commitment to innovation and expands the company’s product offering.

T

he addition of Australian Davits & Cranes’ expertise and product range complements Stella’s existing portfolio, creating a broader suite of premium marine equipment and services to Stella’s local and international customers. Gary Cooper, Founder and Director of Stella stated, “We are thrilled to bring Australian Davit & Cranes product range under our brand and welcome John Berg (Owner and Founder of ADC) and his team into the Stella family.

“This strategic acquisition not only strengthens our market position but also aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering engineered excellence in marine solutions. The product range of ADC is a natural fit for Stella and by joining forces, we aim to create even more value for our customers and drive innovation in the industry.”

Over the past 30 years, Australian Davits & Cranes has earned a reputation for manufacturing reliable and high-quality marine equipment. The two companies share core values of integrity, innovation and customer satisfaction. Stella plans to continue manufacturing the entire range of davits, cranes and hydraulic swim platforms that ADC currently offers and will also be looking to further develop the range of quality equipment.

With a focus on developing their export market, Stella will continue the push to take their full stable of products to international markets and will be displaying their products at METSTRADE in Amsterdam in November. “The ADC 250kg single stage davit is one of our innovations and we look forward to it being presented at METS,” said John Berg. “The stainless-steel boom extends pneumatically and has been popular with boat builders worldwide.

We have sent hundreds to boats in NZ, Asia, Europe and the US. “We are excited to be joining the Stella team and look forward to integrating our products into the impressive production facility at Stella,” John continued.

STELLAMARINE.COM 26 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

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BENNINGTON ANNOUNCES 2024 UPDATES Limited Est. 1978

Bennington, North America’s leading manufacturer of pontoon boats, have announced the complete redesign of its popular, family-friendly S and SV Series pontoon models as a part of its 2024 model launch.

“Bennington is renowned for our craftsmanship. Every line we draw, every detail, everything we do has a purpose and aims to deliver excellence,” said Michael Shedivy, General Manager, Bennington Marine. “Each year, when we improve upon and expand our offerings, we do so with the goal to make every model year the best deal for new boaters looking for the for Bennington and our customers. uncompromising luxury Bennington is This year, we have exceeded that goal, known for in an affordable and featureincluding the completely redesigned rich package, the 2024 S and SV arrive S and SV series that takes our more with a restyled interior and exterior, popular models and makes them even as well as new colours and options.D13 IPS 1350better. Our customers D13 IPS 1350will see that D13 IPS 1350 Bennington also announced refreshing difference as we provide them with more updates and new colour options for the choices and the highest performance rest of its 2024 series line up.

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across every area of their pontoon experience.”

Bennington’s 2024 models offer expansions of a variety of customizable features across model lines, including the introduction of new optional packages such as the interior lighting package, exterior lighting package and saltwater package with anodes and a fuel separator. In a partnership with Yamaha and Mercury, the line of available motors has been enhanced and, for those that desire it, dealers can install the Mercury Single Engine Joystick.

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AQUILA’S 47 MOLOKAI EXTENDS OFFSHORE SERIES The four-engine 47 Molokai fishing boat has just premiered at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in late October. Aquila released more details of its high-speed 47 Molokai fishing boat ahead of the model’s world premiere.

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nly a handful of images have been released, but CGIs and deck plans of the four engine ‘Big Kahuna’ show two pairs of twin 600hp Mercury V12 outboards, while Aquila expects a top speed of over 50 knots. Part of the builder’s Offshore series pioneered by the 28 Molokai, the 47 Molokai has an overall length of 15.06m, featuring a 13.94m double-stepped hull with a beam of 4.44m. As well as a 10.35-tonne dry weight, the boat has a draught of just 0.66m with the engines up and 1.11m with them down.

Carbon-fibre has been used in the forward and aft structural bulkheads, as well as in the optional hard top, which can even fit an upper helm station and fishing chair with a smaller hard top above.

There are rod holders in the hard top, along both bulwarks, and the fore and aft ends. The yacht starts aft with a flexible cockpit with bulwark doors on both sides and fold-down bench seats aft. The central cockpit can fit a table or fishing chair, while the forward area can include aft-facing seats, fishing wells and prep station, or an outdoor galley. The midships area that can be covered by a hard top includes rows of four and three seats, with the forward trio including a central pilot chair. Accessed by both side decks, the foredeck features three fitted sunpads, each covering large ‘coffin boxes’ for storage. The cabin can be accessed by either of two sliding doors, located starboard of the console and on the port side deck.

The cabin has an aft-facing queen bed, head with shower, hull windows on both sides, skylights and lithium-ion air-conditioning.

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It’s what’s under the surface that counts

When you’re out on the water, you shouldn’t have to worry about what’s going on underneath it.

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PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

PRINCESS AUSTRALIA WINS 2023 LUXURY YACHT COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD Princess Yachts Australia has won the LuxLife Hospitality Award “2023 Luxury Yacht Company of the Year”, recognising their consistently superb hospitality for owners and guests, both at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) and the annual Princess Yachts Rendezvous held at the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort.

“I

t’s a great honour to receive an international award for our events and owner hospitality,” said Princess Yachts Australia Director, Greg Haines.

“We put a lot of planning, effort and thought into every event and our owners

play a crucial role in enhancing them year after year. Their feedback and contribution ensures we evolve our events each year.”

At SCIBS 2023, Princess Yachts Australia hosted a cocktail party for owners, guests and VIPS with every facet 5-star, from the premium Hentley Farm wines, Peroni and Veuve Clicquot champagne, to delectable canapes and live entertainment in the form of the sultry sounds and dancing by Sheba.

At the annual Hayman Island Rendezvous, Princess Yachts owners are treated to a mix of information, entertainment and experiences in tropical North Queensland, building on the brand values of familyfocused fun and enjoyment of the boating lifestyle. “Many owners and their families will stay on and explore the Whitsundays,

some will fly home and then rejoin in the school holidays for the five-day Princess Yachts Hayman Island Rendezvous, which starts 25 September. “Owners have formed a Whatsapp group to socialise, have fun onshore and go on day trips to the Reef.” said Greg.

As Greg explains, the pandemic years made people appreciate even more the importance of friendships and meaningful experiences with friends and family. “Every year is bigger and better and we’re so proud and pleased to have so many owners involved in this year’s edition. Our aim is to help Princess owners navigate with confidence and meet others who share their outlook and passion for boating.”

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WHITEHAVEN APPOINTS ALEXANDER MARINE AS QLD DEALER

In a move that will bolster and boost the Whitehaven Motor Yachts brand and its bespoke offering to new markets, Whitehaven has appointed Alexander Marine as their Queensland Dealer Principal.

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ed by Todd Holzapfel, who has more than 30 years’ industry experience, Alexander Marine is based at The Boat Works, Coomera, in the purpose-built, waterfront premises known as The Dock and will be the central point for sales, commissioning, servicing and customer support.

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“This is the perfect marriage of an impeccably high-quality, fully bespoke product and the highest standards of procedures, processes and customer service,” said Todd. “We share the passion and admiration for the position of the Whitehaven brand. The Whitehaven DNA of custom-designed and built motor yachts is well-known globally. What we can add is the firepower to the retail side and the customer experience through marketing, communications, sales, service, support and owner events.”

Alexander Marine represents Ocean Alexander and Galeon motor yachts, with a solid database of international owners and clients accumulated over three decades.

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“Through Todd’s network, the Whitehaven brand will be elevated to the 5-star status it deserves. Whitehaven owners will have the next level of support, service and opportunities catering to their needs,” said Whitehaven Managing Director, Bruce Scott.

“We have several ground breaking new models that will be launching this year and within the next few years, and Alexander Marine is perfectly placed to propel Whitehaven’s unique, bespoke offering to people who are receptive to our brand message.”

Alexander Marine will represent Whitehaven Motor Yachts at boat shows including Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show and Sydney International Boat Show, as well as through owner events.

“This is an exciting phase in the next stage of the evolution of the Whitehaven brand,” Todd stated. “Alexander Marine are proud to bring a new approach to promoting all the brand benefits and the scope owners have to build their own tailor-made motor yacht.

WHITEHAVENMOTORYACHTS.COM.AU ALEXANDERMARINEAUST.COM.AU

www.maxwellmarine.com POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 31

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

VICEM YACHTS RELEASE IMAGES OF NEW TM37

After the successful debut last March 2023 at the Palm Beach International Boat Show, where three units have been sold, Turkish boatbuilder Vicem Yachts is proud to release the first images of the new Vicem Tuna Masters 37 (TM37) hull#1 while running in the clear blue water of Puerto Rico.

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his 37-foot, center console (“CC”) fibreglass vessel has been conceived to be the starting model of a new series of sport-fishing and cruising boats. The Vicem TM37 hull#1 is powered by triple 350-horsepower Mercurys, an upgrade from the standard package with twin 350hp engines. “We worked diligently on the correct weight distribution, in order to provide multiple power options (from 350hp to max 3*450hp) and speeds for our customers,” say Vicem’s team.

The hull design has been optimized to be comfortable and safe in a seaway, providing

a stable, wide-beam platform for clients who want the perfect combination of a salty cruising boat and a high-performance fishing platform. Even more impressive, the series will include Seakeeper gyro stabilization up and down the lineup, range to exceed 350 nautical miles. The Vicem TM37 CC features accommodations befitting a comfortable cruising boat, including twin berths and a wethead down below. On the main deck, the cockpit features excellent space for angling, as well as three aft facing mezzanine seats. A sunpad and twin bench seats in the foredeck

lounge complement this arrangement well.

At the helm, three comfortable and secure seats have ergonomic access to three Raymarine screens, and are well protected from ocean breezes by the windshield. The boat also has a carbon hardtop to be light & stabile. Fishing features include such items as a 50-gallon in-transom livewell, Gemlux rodholders, and a port-side tuna door. Seven units are now in built at Vicem’s Turkish facilities and hull#2 will be launched in September 2023.

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CHANGE OF GRADY-WHITE DEALER FOR NEW ZEALAND

Australian-based Short Marine has been appointed the new New Zealand distributor for the iconic American brand, Grady-White Boats. Already the exclusive GradyWhite distributor for Australia, Short Marine, has taken over from Stuart Arnold, the previous New Zealand dealer for Grady-White, who has retired from the boating business due to ill health.

S

hort Marine is in the process of setting up a new base and office at Condon Marine Services (CMS) at Tamaki Marine Park in Auckland. Operated by Sean Condon, who previously worked as the service manager and head shipwright and Short Marine in the early days of them acquiring Grady-White and managing their pre delivery quality control works, warranty, and custom fit ups at the time before

relocating to his hometown in NZ, to start his own company which has in a short time extremely successful servicing the world’s leading brands in NZ. Short Marine will be focusing on all services and sales for all Grady-White clients in partnership with CMS Based in Tauranga, Tony Carpenter represents Short Marine New Zealand, for all new and used boat sales and aligns with all Short Marine Australia’s values, and has significant game fishing and customer service experience making him the right fit to represent Short Marine and their world class brands in New Zealand.

Ryan Short says, “we are very much service and customer-focused, and that is what

we want to bring into New Zealand.

By partnering up with Condon Marine Services to deliver on a world class pre delivery and after sales service, overseen

by Tony Carpenter - we can now offer a world class and dedicated service for all our customers and world leading brands. With the Kiwi’s love of sportfishing, I can see the Short Marine range being well suited to the local market, and I anticipate strong enquiries for both brands who no doubt lead industry in their class” says Short Marine New Zealand’s Tony Carpenter.

For more info, contact Tony Carpenter +64 2102231334 or email tony.carpenter@shortmarine.com.au SHORTMARINE.COM.AU

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PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

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SENATOR BOATS NAMED BEST EMERGING EXPORTER Napier’s Senator Boats has been named the Best Emerging Exporter at the recent Hawke’s Bay Export Awards. Senator claimed the award given their recent growth in the Australian market which identified by the judges was the result of strong partnerships and brand recognition. With 12 dealers in New Zealand, Senator has established a growing network of three dealers in Australia (W.A, S.A, VIC) with a fourth shortly to be appointed in NSW. Add to that there is also a dealer in New Caledonia.

35

boats, mostly larger hardtop models have been sent across the Tasman, the first shipment leaving the Napier factory in August 2020.

“Like a lot of manufacturers in New Zealand, we’ve faced stern challenges over the last three years, disruptions caused by the likes of the Covid-19, Cyclone Gabrielle, and major supply chain constraints – but it is pleasing to be recognised for our continual growth and expansion into new markets,” says Senator Boats Managing Director, Grant Simmonds. “Establishing a dealer network in Australia has been an important step for the growth of the brand. We’ve been strategic in appointing our dealers, securing strong partnerships, and with that sales have been strong.” Like in New Zealand, Simmonds says that the Senator range has been well received by the Australian market, with buyers appreciating the inherent design and safety characteristics of a Senator. “Our boats are adept to New Zealand and Australian sea conditions with higher cabins, stable hulls & decks are spacious and favour those who want plenty of workspace for fishing.

Senator Boats also recently won the prestigious award for the best specialist fishing boat under 6 meters at the Hutchwilco Auckland Boat Show May 2023. “The new 500 model launched at the New Zealand Boat Show this year has started extremely well and we see demand for this boat increasing over time. Our 620/650 has been our highest selling model over last few years, as too has been our 690 models – which have been very popular in the Australian market.” Senator currently has a cuddy version of the 500 model, due for release at the 2024 Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show.

SENATORBOATS.COM

THE WORLD’S

GREATEST SPORT BOATS 21-23 SSI

DRAMATIC START FOR THE NEW WHANGAREI MARINA It was a dramatic start for the new Okara marina with a helicopter lifting cut mangroves off the reclamation area over 2 days.

W

hilst recognizing the importance of the river’s mangrove ecosystem and understanding concerns being voiced about the removal of some mangroves, the portion removed constituted only 0.07% of Whangarei Harbour’s mangroves. The new sea wall will provide a new intertidal habitat, with voids ready to be colonized by invertebrates and small fish.

Since being advised By NRC that disposal of the mangroves were not specifically covered in the resource consent for the mud fill site at Kissing Point, hasty and well considered alternatives had to be assessed. It was decided that helicopter removal was the most efficient method. It could have least public disturbance in a short time at a similar cost than a difficult shoreside removal right beside a busy road.

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Construction kick-off was celebrated together with Contractors, neighbouring businesses, berth holders, Whangarei's mayor, staff and the Marina trustees. Digging into a mud cake was symbolic of the 150,000 m3 of mud to be moved out to create berths for 113 vessels.

Northland based contractors Total Marine have begun the yearlong process of digging the marina basin. The dredgings are disposed of just around the corner across from the Kissing Point mooring field. The basin area has been ringed with floating silt fencing to contain the work of the two digging barges which will be working simultaneously. A trench is being dug from the southern end of the channel towards the reclamation site to enable access to the new rock wall perimeter. This is the initial focus for the dredge path as the land reclamation for the car park and building requires time to settle. There is a 3D model on display at the Marina office in the town basin (beside the Quay restaurant). It shows the scale and position of the site.

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POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 35

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

YAMAHA WAVERUNNER NATIONAL DEMO TOUR ANNOUNCED Set for 10 locations around New Zealand – coming to your city!

Y

amaha Motor New Zealand is hitting the road this Summer with their National WaveRunner Demo Tour. They are coming to your city! Set for 10 locations around New Zealand, this November is a prime opportunity to water test a WaveRunner that you’ve possibly been thinking of purchasing. Yamaha will have experts available to discuss the latest WaveRunner features and technology, Yamaha Finance and Insurance and of course the latest range of MY24 Yamaha WaveRunners to experience.

DEMO TOUR DATES: Whangarei - November 1st

Wellington - November 9th

Auckland - November 2nd

Taupo - November 10th

Auckland - November 3rd

Nelson - November 15th

Hamilton - November 7th

Christchurch - November 16th

Tauranga - November 8th

Wanaka - November 17th

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backed by outstanding Service.

H II G GH H R RE ES SO O LU LU T T II O ON N LO LO G GO OS S :: H H I G H R E S O LU T I O N LO G O S :

H I G H R E S O LU T I O N LO G O S :

H I G H R E S O LU T I O N LO G O S : H I G H R E S O LU T I O N LO G O S : LEADING ELECTRICAL DESIGN LEADING ELECTRICAL DESIGN LEADING ELECTRICAL DESIGN LEADING ELECTRICAL DESIGN LEADING ELECTRICAL DESIGN

BRP MAKING HISTORY IN THE AUSTRALIAN MARINE INDUSTRY

E S O LU T I O N LO G O S : E S O LU T I O N LO G O S : E S O LU T I O N LO G O S :

LEADING ELECTRICAL DESIGN LEADING ELECTRICAL DESIGN

Making its debut on New South Wales soil, Quintrex Freestyler X officially made its public launch in the heart of Darling Harbour at the recent SIBS. As one of the first products in the world to combine Rotax Stealth technology, the Quintrex Freestyler X i designed to bend expectations by capitalising on transom space with a seamless outboard integration.

ELECTRICAL DESIGN ELECTRICAL DESIGN

ELECTRICAL DESIGN

O LU T I O N LO G O S : O LU T I O N LO G O S : O LU T I O N LO G O S : O LU T I O N LO G O S : O LU T I O N LO G O S :

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he innovative packaging of the ROTAX power unit frees space inside the boat usually occupied by a conventional outboard/transom design. This has allowed the design team to give the consumer more internal space and storage within the boat. Furthermore, the low profile of the motor has allowed us tointroduce our MAX Deck platform, a new space for lounging and relaxing,” Michal Ransome, Industrial Designer, Design and Innovation Quintrex said.

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BRP and the Quintrex brand are entrenched in a strong history and commitment towards innovation - reflected in sister brand; Manitou Pontoon, making its first-ever appearance in the land down under also at the recent SIBS. Derived by the same Research and Development force behind Freestyler X, the Explore range is created to sing a continuous, seamless, holistic design from bow to stern.

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Sharing the same MAX Deck platform concept as Freestyler X, the Explore frees up invaluable space for boaters and their families, allowing the industry to break away from the sea of sameness that has defined the pontoon segment for decades.

“We introduce the Manitou Explore to Australia, set to shake up the industry by showcasing what is truly possible in the boating industry, thanks to its forward-thinking design,” Garrett Koschak, Global Product Manager, Manitou said. Manitou boats are fully optimised and seamlessly integrated, so the boat and engine deliver the perfect day on the water.”

TM

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FOR PRODUCT ENQUIRIES CONTACT WHOLESALE MARINE

DB929

Importer | Manufacturer | Distributor

www.tenob.co.nz

Tenob Wholesale Marine | 241 Ti Rakau Drive | Burswood 2013 | Auckland | New Zealand | Ph +64 9 273 9180 | sales@tenob.co.nz

www.tenob.co.nz 38 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Ph:

0800 273 9180

QUINTREX.COM.AU MANITOUPONTOONBOATS.COM

DOMETIC INTRODUCES VOYAGER SERIES TO THE AUSSIE MARKET

New Dometic Voyager Series TX features innovative variable capacity design that regulates compressor speed based on individual vessel needs. The new series targets smaller vessels.

The variable capacity feature makes vessel occupants enjoy enhanced comfort and quieter operation, along with reduced energy costs and greater system durability.

D

ometic first launched its innovative Voyager Series TX Variable Capacity Self Contained Air Conditioning system in 2021 in Florida, recently making its Australian debut at the Sydney International Boat Show in August, 2023. This new system provides superior comfort for today’s yachts while reducing energy costs, operating noise and required repairs and maintenance. The Voyager Series TX accomplishes this by regulating its compressor speed based on the cooling

or heating demands of the vessel. When the vessel has reached an operator-set comfort point, the compressor will then run at reduced speed. This results in quieter operation, superior efficiency, improved dehumidification of interior spaces and more consistent temperature for enhanced crew comfort.

By utilizing a variable speed compressor (instead of a fixed speed one), the Voyager Series TX provides vessel owners with substantial energy cost savings.

The Voyager Series TX well-thoughtout design includes a robust titanium condenser, an electronic expansion valve for precise control, a removable electric box that can be remote mounted, and a compact overall size for versatile installation and retrofits aboard a wide variety of vessels. Two size options are available to meet a wide range of onboard cooling and heating needs from 3,500BTU to 18,000BTU. DOMETIC.COM

DOMETIC MARINE HYDRAULIC STEERING SYSTEMS The industry standard for quality, durable, safe steering systems.

Renowned worldwide, offering precise control through intelligently designed systems that offer steering options for most engine applications.

dometic.com

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 39

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ NEWS

PROPSPEED LAUNCHES THE ‘LIKE A PRO TOOLKIT’ Propspeed, the leading innovator of underwater foul-release coatings, announced today a new product, technology, and technique with its’ ‘Like A Pro’ toolkit.

T

he toolkit was developed to elevate confidence, increase accessibility and empower all marine businesses and boaters alike with Propspeed’s industry leading foul-release system, support and service. The new Propspeed Coverage Calculator gives confidence in quoting how much product is needed for anysized application, while the Stripspeed product is specifically designed to remove old foul-release coatings simplifying the preparation process and saving time, and the new Propspeed application kit makes application easy, increases finish quality

and significantly reduces total time to complete the job. Through the adoption of this combination of tools, anyone can now Propspeed Like A Pro. “The Like A Pro toolkit is the result of our partners, people, and customers sharing with us how we can make Propspeed an even more valuable part of their marine business or boating experience,” said Marcus Hamilton, CEO, Propspeed.

“As the industry leader in foul-release coatings, we have a responsibility to solve customer and industry problems, and

that means we need to continually evolve and innovate as a business. New product releases are important, but we have always been focused on value-creating investments above and beyond product releases, and these new initiatives are a perfect example of that. Paired with our global team of in-field technical and sales professionals, we are confident that our applicators and customers alike have access to the industry leading foul-release system, support and service they need.”

PROPSPEED.COM

Admiral 9m Gamefisher

Setting the benchmark for qualiity, design, build & performance

DB955

Admiral 10m Sports Cruiser

Helping our clients bring their dreams to life by building truly exceptional boats. info@admiralboatsnz.co.nz | 027 600 9027 |

40 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

@ admiralboatsnz

w w w . a d m i r a l b o a t s n z .com

-DEK

®

MARINE DECKING

YANMAR RECREATIONAL BOATS VX30B

Yanmar products have been well known in our waters, both here in New Zealand and Australia for many years now – mostly for their reliable diesel engines, that are fitted into tens of thousands of boats on both sides of the Tasman.

N

ow, coming from this famous engine manufacturer we are about to see Yanmar Boats hit our shores. Yanmar Recreational Boats have been part of the boating industry in Japan for more than 50 years, supplying high-end fishing cruisers, they are now ready to take the new challenge of bringing Japanese fishing and leisure craft to New Zealand and Australian waters. One that took our eye at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show was the VX30B.

DURABLE LOW MAINTENANCE CUSTOMISED DESIGN 0800 114 222 sales@ultralon.co.nz udek.com

The Yanmar VX30B fishing cruiser made its debut in the Australian market, launching at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show just one week after the Hutchwilco Boat Show where they launched the VF23AZ (Reviewed in our May/June issue). The Yanmar VX30B could be an option for Australian and Kiwi boaters looking for a compact and manoeuvrable vessel, offering a comfortable boating experience. With its sleek design and many advanced features, Yanmar believe the boat will suit exploring Australasian waterways, whether fishing, cruising or simply soaking up the sun on the broad water.

Yanmar feel, one of the standout features of the Yanmar VX30B, is its powerful and efficient engine. Powered by the ever reliable Yanmar 8LV-350 diesel engine offers reliability and performance, the VX30B is reported to be very fuel-efficient, allowing more time on the water and not at the pumps. The VX30B comes equipped with a bow thruster, making it easy to navigate even the most challenging waterways. Second helm station* (Optional) could also be installed on the aft deck to helps you to navigate the boat while fishing outside without having to run back and forth inside the cabin. The vessel features a spacious cockpit and cabin, with ample seating and storage for all your gear. The cabin is also fully air-conditioned, providing a comfortable retreat from the heat on those hot summer days.

Yanmar believe the VX30B Boat to be an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile, high-performance, and comfortable vessel.

Whether you're an avid fisherman, a weekend cruiser, or a water sports enthusiast, this boat is said to exceed your expectations.

WWW.YANMAR.COM/GLOBAL/RECREATIONALMARINE/ PRODUCTS/RECREATIONALBOAT/ POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 41

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ POWER ON

HONDA REVEALS FIRST-EVER 350 HORSEPOWER V8 OUTBOARD

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ith the upcoming IBEX show starting October 3rd in Tampa, Florida, Honda is unveiling an all-new V8 four-stroke BF350 platform.

The new engine will mark a significant step-up from their previous flagship BF250 and will be their first commercially available V8 powerhead.

The sleek BF350 will target boats in the 25-foot and larger range by offering a broader, flatter torque curve.

The company also says the engine will have smoother power delivery throughout the engine’s operating range, improved ergonomic controls, excellent fuel efficiency, greater reliability, and improved ease-of-use, maintenance and ownership.

It will be available in two colours -- Aquamarine Silver and Grand Prix White -- and is intended to run on regular gas, not premium fuel.

Each engine will carry a dry weight of 347-352 kg depending on shaft length.

Other standout features include Trim Support (trim can operate automatically based on engine or boat speed with available presets), automatic tilt, cruise control, and idle charging -- at idle the engine automatically increases RPM by 100 to produce an additional 9 amps for charging devices and preventing battery drain.

The entire platform will also utilize several standard Honda electronic features including VTEC (Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control), BLAST (Boosted Low Speed Torque) System, Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), and Honda's well-known Intelligent Shift & Throttle (iST) command and control system.

Another key feature will be the BF350's availability with an immobilizer ignition system that requires a remote transponder key to start the engine. The theft-deterrent system is designed to prevent the engine from being started without the owner’s smart key. If an attempt is made to start the engine without the smart key, the immobilizer disables the engine.

Honda Marine has stated that availability and on-sale date and pricing for the BF350 will be available in early 2024. It will be offered with a true 5-year non-declining factory warranty.

VOLVO PENTA JOYSTICK DRIVING WINS IBEX INNOVATION AWARD

T

he prestigious program recognizes manufacturers and suppliers who deliver genuine innovation to the marine market. Volvo Penta’s Joystick Driving technology integrates shift, steering and throttle into a single joystick control, delivering a premium experience to boat drivers, centred on ease of use and precision.

Launched in May, Volvo Penta’s ground-breaking technology integrates shift, steering and throttle into a single joystick control, allowing smoother manoeuvres with the use of just one hand, for easier operations, more precise control, and a premium experience.

The award winners were announced on October 3, 2023 in Tampa, Florida, on the opening day of the International Boat Builders Exhibition & Conference (IBEX). Volvo Penta Joystick Driving won its award for showing clear leadership in its category, including an ability to advance the marine industry through better user experience, and enabling boaters to build a stronger connection with the environment around them.

“Since its launch earlier in the year, Joystick Driving has received universally positive feedback and we are extremely honoured to win an IBEX award for one of our hero innovations.

This recognition symbolizes the market’s appreciation for our continuous focus on ease.” said Anders Thorin, marine electronics product planner at Volvo Penta.

Volvo Penta Joystick Driving can be used in all sizes and kinds of vessels, including commercial ships. The solution can be conveniently installed on the armrest of the driver’s seat, ensuring an ergonomic driving posture.

The joystick is simply pushed forward to engage a gear, speed up or slow down, and released to remain at a certain speed. The acceleration is proportional to the angle of the joystick. When the joystick is pulled back, the throttle reduces, and the boat stops.

To further enhance the driving experience, electronic gear shifting enables smooth acceleration and deceleration.

VOLPOWER.CO.NZ

HONDAMARINE.CO.NZ

EPROPULSION NAVY 6.0 ELECTRIC OUTBOARD MOTOR

T

he exceptional quiet ePropulsion Navy 6.0 Electric Outboard Motor has a durable 6 kW electric brushless engine – producing the same equivalent performance as a 9.9hp outboard. With its efficient design, the engine is ideal for a tender, fishing and other activities. On a single charge, you can travel up to 64km, or fish all day long at trolling speeds.

It features an advanced closed loop liquid cooling

42 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

system, ready for any water challenge. The Navy series is the only direct-drive electric outboard at this power range, made with fewer moving parts and no gearbox required. This means less vibration, noise free and high reliability. Like all other ePropulsion products, the Navy 6.0 Evo is ultra-low maintenance, super quiet, and harmless to health and environment.

EVOCEAN.CO.NZ

MERCURY MARINE LAUNCHES AVATOR 20E AND 35E ELECTRIC OUTBOARDS

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ercury Marine have introduced the Avator 20e and 35e electric propulsion systems. The new models join Mercury’s electric propulsion lineup alongside the awardwinning Avator 7.5e outboard, which launched in January at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

Two more electric outboard products will be unveiled in the coming months as Mercury advances on its commitment to be the leader in electric propulsion. “We’re thrilled to advance our electrification strategy and the Mercury Avator brand with the introduction of the 20e and 35e electric outboards,” said John Buelow, Mercury Marine President. “Building off the success of the Avator 7.5e, these outboards set new benchmarks for innovation, performance and connectivity. “The investment and advancements we’re making position Mercury to continue expanding our Avator portfolio and soon deliver additional industry-changing, low-voltage electric outboards.”

The 20e and 35e feature many of the same innovative features as the 7.5e, including transverse flux motor technology, a vivid full-colour intuitive display and an ambidextrous tiller handle. The new models offer more power and the ability to connect multiple Avator batteries to extend range and run time, plus full access to the Mercury Marine app with the integrated SmartCraft Connect module. The Avator 20e

and 35e outboards generate 2200W and 3700W of power, respectively, at the propeller shaft. The 20e can produce similar acceleration as a 5hp FourStroke outboard, while the 35e generates acceleration that is comparable to a Mercury 9.9hp FourStroke outboard.

Offered with tiller or remote steering, both are ideal for powering small vessels, including aluminium fishing boats, micro skiffs, rigid inflatables, tenders and small pontoons. “Avator outboards are intelligent, electric propulsion systems engineered to deliver a superior boating experience with flexibility to easily extend range and runtime,” said Tim Reid, Mercury Marine Vice President of Product Development and Engineering.

MERCURYMARINE.COM.AU

Redefined for the ultimate experience Introducing a new generation of our D4 and D6 propulsion packages, from 150–480 hp. After having spent years refining and developing the proven platform ever further, this complete system delivers new exciting features – from helm to propeller. All to offer you the ultimate boating experience.

Visit our store or www.volpower.co.nz to learn more.

Distributed by Volpower NZ Limited for New Zealand & Pacific Islands ph. 0800 865 769 or 09 2744305 www.volpower.co.nz Authorized dealer for Volvo Penta

New D4 & D6 propulsion packages POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 43

PACIFIC POWERBOAT _ ELECTRONICS

LUSTY & BLUNDELL ANNOUNCE NEW RESCUEMEPLB3 A real safety game-changer.

GARMIN EXPANDS XHD3 SERIES New magnetron dome radars offer premium features.

O A

ble to send its distress message both globally (via satellite) and locally (through AIS) Ocean Signal’s new rescueME PLB3 personal locator beacon gives those in trouble the best possible chance of a quick, effective rescue. A world’s first Personal Locator Beacon to include advanced, practical, life-saving features such as Automatic Identification System (AIS) functionality, Return Link Service (RLS) technology and Near Field Communication (NFC) capabilities, the PLB3 is a true game changer.

A significant step forward in the evolution of PLBs, PLB3 merges traditional 406 MHz Cospas Sarsat satellite distress signals and 121.5 MHz local homing signals with a simultaneous AIS VHF alert, ensuring any nearby vessel with AIS also immediately receives the distress signal (the alert appears on their onboard display, making it easy for them to quickly navigate directly to the activated PLB3).

Its NFC capability makes the PLB3 the world’s first smartphone-connected PLB and its comforting RLS feature reassures users that their distress message has been received and their location detected by worldwide Search and Rescue personnel.

The PLB3 is designed to be able to fit within a lifejacket and, in the case of an inflatable lifejacket, to activate automatically when the lifejacket inflates. Thanks to its integral webbing clip, it can also be attached to a standard lifejacket or an appropriately sized belt.

Like all Ocean Signal rescueME personal locator beacons, the small, lightweight PLB3 comes complete with a free Ocean Signal Beacon app (for IOS and Android), a strobe and infrared strobe light, 5-year battery life and over 24 hours of operational life.

LUSTY-BLUNDELL.CO.NZ

44 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

ne of the world’s most innovative and recognized marine electronics manufacturer, today announced the addition of two radars to the magnetron lineup, the GMR xHD3/HD3 dome radar series. These new radars provide high-definition imaging and the latest platform technology to give boaters, sailors and anglers extra peace of mind on the water. Now available in an 18” or 24” model, the xHD3 dome radar series adds new premium features for maximum clarity and awareness on the water.

Scan Averaging – a first for Garmin magnetron dome radar – to help filter sea clutter and interference, delivering a clearer display. Target Size optimizes on-screen object shapes at all range scales through pulse expansion and angular processing.

True Echo Trails shows a historical “trail” of boats on the water, removing relative motion influence to help quickly identify moving targets and potential collision threats. Rotation Speed up to 60 rpm to improve the redraw rate for faster target updates on a multifunction display (MFD).

“We’re excited to offer our xHD3 dome radar series as a highperformance option for a wider range of vessels, continuing our pursuit to provide mariners with the most innovative technology available on the water today. Garmin’s new magnetron radars deliver a high-definition picture of weather, obstacle and traffic detection, giving mariners superior clarity and detail for added peace of mind every time they leave the dock.” –Dan Bartel, Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer Sales

GARMIN.COM/MARINE

QUAD LOCK’S WATERPROOF WIRELESS CHARGER

CYCLONE RADAR

Stay connected and powered up, on the way, all day long.

Q

uad Lock has expanded their marine range with the introduction of an all-new 12V-24V waterproof wireless charger. Designed specifically for boats, this charger is perfect for keeping your phone powered up and ready to use while you are out on the water. With an IP67 rating, the Quad Lock 12V-24V Waterproof Wireless Charger is built from a combination of diecast aluminium and reinforced plastics that can withstand even the harshest marine conditions.

In addition to being waterproof, the Wireless Charging Head offers fast wireless charging up to 15W. This makes it the perfect choice for boaters out on the water all day ensuring phone battery will never run out again. Whether you are fishing, wakeboarding or simply relaxing, you can stay connected to your loved ones, access GPS navigation, and keep your phone safely mounted to your boat.

The charger is compatible with all Quad Lock cases and 360 range. It also works with a wide range of compatible phones, including the latest iPhone and Android models that have wireless charging capabilities.

Note: The Quad Lock 12V-24V waterproof wireless charging head must be wired through ignition positive (not steady positive) or isolator switch with correct in-line 3A fuse and not directly to the battery to avoid battery drain.

QUADLOCKCASE.NET/WATERPROOF-WIRELESS-CHARGER

EVOLVED

MASTERVOLT DEBUTS NEW MODELS

FOR THE

OCEAN

36V and 48V Mac Plus Models with New Bi-directional Technology

M

MASTERVOLT.COM

Aircraft wing inspired

Enhanced Bird Mode

RangeFusion™ technology

High speed 60 rpm imaging

Designed like a seabird.

Sleek and aerodynamic with 360-degree situational awareness featuring Cyclone Bird Mode technology to get you to the fish faster.

LAB0692

astervolt, a global leader in innovative autonomous power solutions, have just announced the launch of its 36V and 48V Mac Plus DC-DC chargers. Featuring new bi-directional technology, the new models provide a quick, safe, and consistent charge for both service and starter batteries, with a stable output that powers even the most sensitive loads in boats, RVs or any off-grid system.

“Charging service batteries of a vehicle or vessel can be challenging due to voltage drops and insufficient charging. With the Mac Plus DC-DC charger, both service and starter batteries are charged efficiently, quickly and safely thanks to the revolutionary bidirectional technology that uses either side as an input or output. The Mac Plus provides consistency and peace of mind to users, providing stable power when they need it most.” says Eric Lindquist, VP and General Manager, Power Systems at Navico Group.

The 36V and 48V Mac Plus models have a new bi-directional technology that ensures both service and starter batteries receive all the power they need by using either side as an input or output. There is no risk of draining the starter battery when charging the house bank because it automatically monitors whether the engine is running or providing charge.

The Mac Plus uses the proven Mastervolt 3-step+ charge algorithm, delivering a quick and easy charge, even to completely flat batteries. By knowing when the engine is running and providing charge, users can also be sure that the Mac Plus will never drain the starter battery.

Designed to endure the harshest conditions, the Mac Plus has battery temperature optimized charging and high-quality aluminium housing to ensure superior protection against dust and water ingress. Additionally, the power efficient design allows the Mac Plus to operate silently and without a fan.

WWW.LUSTY-BLUNDELL.CO.NZ

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 45

STRAIGHT FROM THE GALLEY WITH DEREK THE CHEF, CHEFLINE14@GMAIL.COM

Chef's tip: I added blanched asparagus and steamed South Island deep sea scampi as an extra garnish.

GRILLED SALMON RISOTTO with avocado capsicum oil

New Zealand's salmon farmers rate their king salmon among the world's best and so do overseas customers. King salmon are the oiliest, a good thing for texture, flavour and omega 3 content.

PER SERVE 1x 150 – 200gm Salmon steak RISOTTO 25gm (11/2 x Tbsp) Cocavo Garlic Ghee (Substitute garlic butter) 50 gm onion diced 2x garlic cloves crushed 100gm Arborio rice 1x bay leaf 30mls white wine (Sauvignon Blanc) 300mls chicken or fish stock CAPSICUM OIL 100mls Cocavo Extra Virgin Avocado Oil 25gm capsicum confetti (red, yellow, green) 5 gm Thai basil Chives to garnish

46 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

METHOD 1. Grill on both sides then place on top of cooked rice. (Skin may be left on or off).

2. Finely dice onion and crush the garlic, add to melted Cocavo Garlic Ghee and cook until opaque.

3. Wash the Arborio rice then add it to the Cocavo Garlic Ghee blend.

4. Add bay leaf and wine then cook until wine is absorbed into the rice.

5. Add chicken / fish stock a little at a time until all is either used or the rice is cooked.

(More may be required).

6. Finely dice red, yellow & green capsicum, add to the oil along with basil, gently heat to infuse flavours.

7. Place a mould in the middle of the plate, fill with risotto then place the grilled salmon on top, drizzle the capsicum oil around bottom and garnish with chives.

Enjoy with 2022 Invivo Gisborne Chardonnay The 2022 Invivo Gisborne Chardonnay offers white Peach and citrus on the nose with a hint of caramel and toast.

The palate is fresh and vibrant with great acidity and perfect balance of ripe stone fruits and toasty, creamy oak. The wine was partially fermented in new French Oak Barriques and also underwent a softening Malolactic fermentation. This wine will continue to develop and unfold over the next 3-5 years.

UNLOCK THE OCEANS XF50

XF60

XF66

The Voodoo Xpedition Foiler range of hydrofoil assisted power catamarans are set apart by their ability to cover huge open ocean distances at high speeds in absolute comfort. And with incredible efficiency.

Contemporary interiors, light, flowing spaces and sustainable selections refine the extreme performance.

Devastatingly fast, immensely capable and supremely comfortable. The Voodoo Xpedition Foiler truly is the ultimate boat for the modern day adventurer.

Get your key to unlock the oceans.

XF75

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Length (m/ft): 22.5M / 75FT Area (m2/ft2): 275M2 / 2960FT2 Sprint Speed: 37-45KNTS Cruising Speed: 30-37KNTS Range @ 30knts: 1,100NM Range @ 8knts: 4,000NM

Explore more at voodooyachts.com P: +64 7 578 8252 M: +61 21 026 36362

WHAT IS THE QUESTION? _ PHIL GILBERT

SURVEYS… THE OTHER PERSPECTIVE Rebecca Hayter penned an excellent article recently, outlining the benefits of a Marine Survey when buying, and ongoing LTMP advantages created by that report. A pre purchase inspection is now required by all Recreational Boating Insurance Providers.

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uring my many years of masochistic service to the buyers and sellers of recreational craft, this survey requirement has undergone significant change. Going from what was essentially a general condition report to today’s pages long, exhausting breakdown of missing screws, UV damage, rust stains and recommendations based on comparisons to ‘as new’. The only thing longer is the disclaimer provided with that report exonerating the poor surveyor from any liability for missing said screw hole.

This, an inevitable consequence of increased litigious activity by some buyers looking to share the cost burden of a refit.

Early surveyors were almost always older boat builders who viewed each boat with a pragmatic eye, complete with prophetic comment like, ‘not bad condition for her vintage’ or ‘full of pox but it won’t kill her’.

I recall my despair when the late Jack Taylor, a fearsome chap, pronounced to my buyer of the famed old bridge deck launch ‘Crusader’ he was surveying… ‘This boat has been extended, looks like it was done by an apprentice!’ After a pregnant pause, he cackled ‘it was me, I did it when I was apprenticed to …?’

The next generation of surveyors were more professional in their wording, and started to specialise.

Mike Menzies, a good FRP boat builder specialised in surveying FRP craft, mainly looking for Osmosis (Boat Pox, or Marine Acne). Brokers and sellers lived in fear of his eagle eye. Even boats he had built himself were not spared, as the pox was mainly a consequence of building techniques at the time, not bad boat building. Not unlike the leaky building fiasco! In those days, he also ran an Osmosis repair and consultancy business, a possible conflict of interest that would not be allowed nowadays. Well known designer and boat builder, Ray Beale was another who morphed into survey. He was almost 48 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

too good, missing practically nothing. Even though he was my Brother in Law at one time, his reports cost me a few deals over the years. He and his peers were by this stage carrying significant insurance in case of litigation, and the courts sometimes blinkered view of fair and reasonable. This increased legal scrutiny inevitably lead to the demise of quite a few part timers, and those offering any input on things mechanical. It is very difficult to get any reputable engine supplier and/or repair mechanic to offer even a comment on the possible condition of an engine. Len Gilbert stated the only way to precisely

offer a report on a motor was to dismantle it, measure it, then rebuild it. Not totally practical for the buyer or seller. Len himself stopped doing mechanical appraisals after one $80.00 visual inspection resulted in the buyer suing him a year later for the cost of rebuilding two motors. A couple of days prior to the court sitting, this litigation was discontinued, as it was discovered the litigant had failed to advise that in the interim before suing, he had clouted a reef causing significant damage to gearboxes and props. When the props were repaired, he had the pitch altered, which overloaded the engines. A minor omission!

By this stage surveyors were a united part of the Marine Industry Association, some even with capital letters after their names.

Then some bastard invented the modern moisture meter!!

For the life of me, I still cannot understand how this evil invention can detect the difference between a rain soaked deck or antifoul which has been immersed in water for a year, and the unseen subsurface moisture levels of a craft which spends its whole life exposed to water. Be that as it may. Sellers quake in their boots when this contraption appears in the surveyors’ hand.

One yacht I was selling had a re-deck a few years previous, yet on survey the moisture meter advised the decks were holding more water than a Slurpex sponge. The buyers ran, and the distraught sellers shut the boat up with a dehumidifier running for a short time. A month later the boat sold with flying colours.

It has long been known that recreational boat insurance is not very profitable to the Insurers. The costs associated with insuring your craft now are much higher than the good old days. Many Insurance companies don’t do marine at all, and those that do, now demand comprehensive surveys for all purchases. Even almost new craft, built by reputable companies have to be surveyed. I recently sold a craft insured with a well-known offshore Insurance Company. This craft had been comprehensively surveyed 4 years ago when purchased, and new rigging was installed, as per their demands. When the buyer approached this same Insurer, they demanded a new full survey, and proof that the rigging had been replaced, even though they held cover with that proviso attached.

Pity the poor surveyor. Every time they do their job well, at least one party is usually going to be unhappy with them.

OUTBOARD

OFFICIAL DISTRIBUTOR sales@sportsmarine.com

Scan QR code for more info.

HIGH HEELS TO SEABOOTS _ REBECCA HAYTER

WOMEN OWNING THE HELM

I

In the statistics of boat ownership, I’m guessing that women account for less than one percent, but if any women reading this are interested in increasing that contribution, I highly recommend sole boat ownership.

n the statistics of boat ownership, I’m guessing that women account for less than one percent, but if any women reading this are interested in increasing that contribution, I highly recommend sole boat ownership.

In an age of self-help courses in every human attribute, boat ownership offers a course from beginner’s to advanced in self-reliance, project management, selfmotivation and DIY, plus all the usual boating skills such as navigation, berthing, anchoring, basic mechanics and, yep, running aground.

The first time I tried to buy a boat, the broker refused to sell it to me. Maybe it was my floral skirt and lacy top, but he decided I was incapable of running a boat. Instead, I ended up with a 25-year-old yacht which had been home-finished and poorly maintained.

I paid $20,000 for it in a private sale, spent at least $20,000 on it over 10 years and sold it for $9000.

Financially, a loss, but in terms of covering the DIY curriculum, that boat was the jackpot. Its electrics were a mess; its cockpit had chips in the fibreglass and rotten teak in the seats. It had osmosis in the hull, electrolysis in the rudder stock, water in the gearbox, a faulty alternator and an engine that would soon blow its head gasket.

I was armed with a rusty set of tools as old as the boat, motivation born of ignorance and a socket set that was still brand new from when I’d bought it five years previously. In the beginning, I managed to complete only about 10% of tasks without help; after a couple of years, I was up to around 70%. One day, I glanced at a nut and automatically selected the correct size socket. I was so proud of myself, you’d think I’d just qualified as a marine engineer.

I never compared myself to my male friends who could change impellers in their sleep.

I just told myself: if they can learn it, so can I. Over several years, I did today’s equivalent of Boat Skipper, Coastal Skipper and Ocean Skipper, a couple of diesel engine maintenance courses and the RYA Powerboat course.

50 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

I also had some extremely supportive friends. Supportive doesn't always mean taking over and doing the job for you.

It means people like my friend Graham who decided I could fix the blown head gasket myself, under his supervision. It was painful, but I am forever grateful for the experience of stripping down and rebuilding that engine. Until then, I’d been quite scared of it because I didn’t understand it.

After that, we became friends.

I pulled out kilometres of messy tangled wiring, re-ran lovely new cables, and got an

expert to rewire the ignition. I watched an engineer change the oil in the gearbox; next time, I could do it myself. As for physical strength, it all comes down to levers and fulcrums. I can usually figure out a way to be stronger than I really am.

I’m definitely no superwoman, but boat ownership gave me confidence to tackle new tasks, and that translates into other fields. It’s just a matter of asking the right people the right questions and building up a tolerance to mansplaining. But I always listen, because sometimes they say something I didn’t know.

My most recent sojourn into boat ownership is a Franklin 925 launch with a 240hp turbo Yanmar. This is way too technical for me, so apart from the basics like changing the filters, I pay professionals to do the engine and electrical maintenance.

So here are my tips for women considering boat ownership: Do the courses; eg Boat Skipper, Coastal Skipper, RYA Powerboat.

Keep a log book, including your trip reports, maintenance regimes and tips.

Re-read your log book regularly.

Build your team. Some tradespeople – electricians, engineers, boat builders – are more supportive than others. For every person who does work on your boat, list their name, contact and your experience of working with them in your log book.

Have your engine serviced regularly.

Look after your tools. Clean them before putting them away to avoid them rusting.

Have a go. I still find the hardest part of a new task is getting started. Recently I found diesel bug in my port fuel tank. Accessing the tank involved undoing 20 tiny bolts and I had no idea what would happen if I undid them. So I went to get a coffee. I don’t even drink coffee. I managed to procrastinate three more times before I finally faced the job. I rang friends for advice, sometimes texting photos of the issue. I read the owner’s manual. I watched videos on YouTube. Eventually, I cleaned out the tanks and replaced the primary filter, but suffered a major loss of confidence when reassembling the secondary filter. I put it in an ice cream container and took it into the office of the local Yanmar agent for sign off before installing it.

Owning boats has brought me some of my biggest challenges, but it has also led to some of my biggest rewards.

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PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ RIVIERA 585 SUV

RIVIERA 585 SUV What is an SUV you might ask? Well according to Riviera it is an acronym for a crossover between the spirited, offshore performance and open cockpit of their Sports Motor Yachts with the entertaining ease of their free-flowing Sport Yacht design. It is essentially two luxury yachts in one package. It is also all about offering great comfort, whilst enhancing the indoor/outdoor lifestyle. It’s these features that make the SUV models so popular.

BY BARRY THOMPSON

52 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

THE COCKPIT The 8.5 m2 cockpit is an expansive water sports space, that opens out to a boarding platform aft, and just two-steps up to the semi-enclosed 6.8m2 alfresco deck.

The 7.6 m2 hydraulic lift swim platform leads to the cockpit through one of two doors that open outwards to sit flush against the transom, creating one massive water sports space with room to fish, dive, launch any number of water toys, or simply relax. The combined cockpit and fixed swim platform is 14 m2 and this is increased to 16 m2 with the optional hydraulic rise and fall platform.

A moulded storage or fish bin unit is built into the transom.

There is an option to add an aft lounge in this space that lifts to reveal a large water sports storage compartment. The cockpit deck includes hatches on either side to access the Volvo Penta IPS drive units. The starboard hatch also covers a small storage bin. A central hatch lifts to reveal a large lazarette that can be utilised for storage.

Forward on the port side is the barbecue centre, with a moulded lid that covers a premium-quality, electric twin-plate barbecue.

A sink, integrated rubbish bin, and storage is below. A similar unit on the starboard side includes a refrigerated cool box and ice maker. A small, moulded opening hatch in the starboard corner protects a conveniently positioned IPS joystick, which can be optioned to be located on the port side. These joystick locations are well-positioned for the skipper to undertake slow speed manoeuvring and docking.

Stepping up from the cockpit, the 585 SUV’s entertainment and living epicentre, is a semi-enclosed alfresco deck featuring a plush lounge to port that can convert to a double daybed. There’s an L-shaped lounge to starboard around a handcrafted folding teak table fitted with drink holders. A cool box is stowed under the lounge. Two ottomans offer occasional seating around the table on both sides of the alfresco deck providing protection from the elements, light, and privacy. There are also twin electric sunroofs built into the alfresco deck hardtop, introducing additional light and fresh air. Plus, a large deck hatch provides service access to the engine room.

The 585 SUV is the latest model in the growing SUV range from Australian luxury boat builder Riviera. The Riviera SUV Collection combines the offshore performance and open cockpit of a flybridge with the one level living of a sport yacht.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 53

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ RIVIERA 585 SUV

The starboard side features a wet bar in the aft corner, an electric-lift TV built into the cabinetry beside the bar, and a long lounge with the ingeniously concealed foldout timber dining table.

The well-appointed U-shaped galley is aft along the port side.

The master stateroom has it’s own private lounge with expansive views through the hull window.

The foredeck zone offers another entertaining or relaxation space; it is well-suited for sunset drinks, providing plush lounge seating for up to eight guests.

Stepping up from the cockpit, the 585 SUV’s entertainment and living epicentre, is a semi-enclosed alfresco deck featuring a plush lounge to port that can convert to a double daybed.

FOREDECK

Moving forward, the 31cm wide side decks include a new drain design that diverts water from reaching the cockpit whilst running offshore or during wash-down.

The solid stainless steel rails take the height from the base of the bulwark to 76cm.

The foredeck zone offers another entertaining or relaxation space; it is well-suited for sunset drinks, providing plush lounge seating for up to eight guests, a removable GRP table with glass holders, an insulated cool box, and stereo speakers linked to the saloon entertainment system.

Gas strut hatch lids access lockers for fenders and ropes.

In the forepeak, there’s a Muir windlass with 22.66’ (70 m) of steel chain rode and an Ultra 45 kg stainlesssteel anchor. A hatch in the deck to port opens to access the remote control, hand crank and washdowns with rode access to starboard.

SALOON

The luxurious and substantial saloon connects seamlessly with the alfresco deck through a strong stainless steel sliding glass door, and large awning window, that opens the galley and saloon to the exterior. There is 1.98m height throughout most of the salon with the 3.88m beam maximised in all areas.

54 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

GALLEY

The well-appointed U-shaped 1.65m x 1.90m galley is aft along the port side. A three-hotplate induction cooktop includes removable potholders and a fullheight fridge/freezer stands in the aft corner. There’s a combination oven/microwave, with an integrated grill, and a dishwasher, are under the countertop. Forward of the galley is a watertight side door giving easy access to the port side deck and the foredeck lounge, or for line handling or anchoring.

The starboard side features a wet bar in the aft corner, an electric-lift TV built into the cabinetry beside the bar, and a long lounge with the ingeniously concealed foldout timber dining table for when you wish to dine inside, or you have additional guests aboard.

HELM

A pair of Italian soft leather helm chairs offer comfort and have the ability to be adjusted in to a position that suits any skipper. There is a 2.0m standing headroom at the helm and they are spaced well apart for ease of access. The companion seat provides company for the captain on those extended voyages.

A cockpit docking station is available if you feel a little more comfortable docking outside from

The hydraulic lift swim platform leads you to the cockpit through one of two doors that open outwards to sit flush against the transom.

The second guest stateroom to port features two single berths with bedside tables. At the touch of a button, the two berths can slide together to form a double.

the cockpit where you can see what’s happening over the transom and alongside.

Further smart boating technology includes electronic engine controls and steering, dynamic positioning system, autopilot, low speed joystick steering mode, interceptor, bow thruster and search light controls.

In addition, an anchor control with chain counter, VHF radio, compass, and USB port, complete the array of technology that makes boating with Riviera just so easy and enjoyable. A trio of Garmin 17" Glass Bridge screens dominate the dash.

All new Riviera motor yachts are equipped with Siren Marine to allow owners to remotely monitor key onboard systems, the yacht’s location and to activate selected onboard equipment.

The forward starboard corner of the salon offers an L-shape lounge opposite the helm, allowing family or guests to be socially connected whilst underway. A large electric GRP sunroof is built into the hardtop to offer additional light and fresh air.

ACCOMMODATIONS

A forward central companionway with seven 20cm risers leads from the saloon to the light-filled and substantial accommodation deck that includes three staterooms with 6’5” headroom and three heads.

The full-beam master suite amidships is bathed in light

and fresh air from large hull windows with integrated and alarmed opening portholes. The cabin features a 1.82m x 1.90m walk-around bed, casual dining or study to the port side, a cedar-lined walk-in hanging locker aft on the starboard side, and an ensuite bathroom forward, also to starboard.

Forward is an optional bar/fridge with a counter space for a coffee machine, providing a minibar within the master stateroom.

The space aft of the full-beam midships master suite can be configured as a utility room, laundry, gym, crew quarters, or even additional accommodation with its own head. The aft bulkhead has a wide watertight door that provides excellent access to the engine room.

The VIP guest stateroom forward, includes an ensuite bathroom, and a 1.95m x 1.52m walk-around bed, with an abundance of storage under. There is further storage in two overhead lockers, a double hanging robe or an additional robe with shelving. Fresh air and light are introduced to the stateroom from twin overhead deck hatches and large hull windows.

The second guest stateroom to port features two 1.88m x 1.52m single berths with bedside tables. At the touch of a button, the two berths can slide together to form a double. There is also a large hull window with alarmed opening port, and a hanging locker. The third head is opposite on the starboard side and acts as the day head.

The cockpit floor includes hatches on either side to access the Volvo Penta IPS drive units.

The VIP guest stateroom forward, includes an ensuite bathroom, and a walk-around bed, with an abundance of storage under.

The full-beam master suite amidships is bathed in light and fresh air from large hull windows with integrated and alarmed opening portholes.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 55

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ RIVIERA HAINES HUNTER 585 SUVSP635

A trio of Garmin 17" Glass Bridge screens dominate the dash.

The master ensuite has a large shower cubicle, raised bowl and plenty of storage.

The space aft of the full-beam midships master suite can be configured as a utility room, laundry, gym, crew quarters, or even additional accommodation with its own head.

THE ENGINE ROOM

Access to the engine room is via a wide watertight door from the utility space aft of the master stateroom, or through a large service hatch from the alfresco deck.

The headroom is 1.8 m, which is unusual these days in a 17.9m (58’) yacht.

The engine room is par excellence with everything meticulously engineered. From the double clamps on the hoses to the supported and colour coded wiring, and the ease of access to everything, such as the 1.0m between the engines, it is easy to see that Riviera’s engineers spent a lot of time making sure the layout of the engine room was as good as they could get.

Centre stage in our 585 SUV was a pair of Volvo Penta D13 IPS 1350s. Standard power is a pair of Volvo Penta IPS 1200s. Also included amongst the usual mechanical and controls systems was a Dometic air con system, Bluewater Legend 950-1 watermaker, Onan EQD 22.5kW generator, 240V inverter and Humphree 0.8ms carbon fins which included Active Ride control.

All of this equipment is generally considered to be the best in class.

Owners can opt for gyroscopic or fin stabilisation aboard the 585 SUV yacht. The gyro option is set under the cockpit. The fin option provides even more space in the lazarette, as the head units are mounted in the engine room.

56 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

The forward starboard corner of the salon offers an L-shape lounge opposite the helm, allowing family or guests to be socially connected whilst underway.

RIVIERA 585 SUV PERFORMANCE

The Riviera 585 SUV measures 19.82m overall with a hull length of 17.95m a beam of 5.67m, draft of 1.65m and dry weight of 30,820kg. Our test weight was estimated to be around 37,400kg.

Testing the 585 SUV #1 on the Gold Coast Seaway, Australia, in calm water, in every aspect the boat was a pleasure to drive. Like all IPS-drive yachts, its turning radius is greater than it would be with a straight shaft and rudder system. It is reasonably quick to plane with a low bow-up attitude and is super responsive to the helm. It did nothing unexpected and thanks to the Volvo Penta Joystick Docking it was also an easy and very intuitive return to the dock.

The twin Volvo Penta D13 IPS1350 returned a maximum speed of 40 mph (34.9 knots) @ 2470 rpm.

Dropping back to 2200 rpm, the speed settled at around 33.4 mph (29 knots), using 301 lph and a range of around 400nm.

However, in the calm waters during our test, I found 1900 rpm was a sweet spot. Here we saw 23 knots for 222 lph and a range of around 420nm. This is a noteworthy speed/range ratio for yacht in this class.

Slow cruise at around 9 knots will produce more than 1000 nm range. The Riviera 585 SUV is a boat that needs to be driven and loves it.

We have berths available to rent in the heart of the city – Westhaven, Viaduct and Silo marinas.

Looking for a berth in central Auckland?

•

Berthage available from 10m up to 140m for long and short stays

•

Commercial vessels berthage available

•

Superb city locations – close to world-class restaurants, trendy bars, accommodation and transport links

•

Peace of mind with 24-hour security

•

Complimentary on-site car parking

•

Water and power supply (Silo Marina has up to 800 amps available!)

•

Fuelling facilities/options

•

Customs clearance for boats up to 24m at Westhaven Marina and over 24m at Viaduct and Silo marinas

•

Internet access and waste pump-out facilities available at Viaduct and Silo marinas

CONTACT US TODAY! westhaven.co.nz

(up to 24m berths)

0064 9 360 5870

info@westhaven.co.nz

viaductmarina.co.nz

(up to 55m berths)

0064 9 355 7479

info@viaductmarina.co.nz

silomarina.co.nz

(up to 140m berths)

0064 9 355 7479

info@silo.co.nz

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ RIVIERA 585 SUV

The handling is predictable and offers no surprises on the water. In high-speed full lock to lock turns it remains relatively flat with no excessive angle. Into a head sea the hull dissipates the water cleanly and in a following sea there is enough bow to hold it up and run constant with any burying motion. Overall, a clean riding hull.

SUMMARY

Riviera offers an industry-leading, international level of owner care and comfort, with all Volvo Penta IPS powered yachts delivered with five-year engines, drives and electronics limited warranty, which is further supported by Riviera’s seven-year structural and two-year express limited warranties.

Personally, I love sport yachts and the easy, convenient one level living style. While Riviera have been in the business of making sport yachts for almost 20 years, for me, the SUV range epitomise the character of the genre and to be honest is hard to fault. The 585 SUV certainly lives up to the company’s expression of being a crossover between a sport yacht and a flying bridge style motor yacht. It is certainly two luxury yachts brought together in one, beautifully conceived package.

SPECIFICATIONS

Boat Design Name Riviera 585 SUV Year Launched 2023 Price Available on request Style Sport Sedan Builder Riviera Australia LOA 19.82m LOH 17.95m Beam 5.67m Draft 1.65m Displacement (Dry) 30820 kgs Max Speed 34.9 knots Construction GRP Fuel Cap 4500 litres Water Cap 800 litres Engine Options 2 x Volvo Penta D13 IPS 1200 @ 900hp 2 x Volvo Penta D13 IPS 1350 @ 1000hp Stabilisers Humphree carbon fins Generator Onan EQD 22.5kW Watermaker Bluewater Legend 950-1 Air Conditioning Dometic MFD 3 x Garmin 17” Ent System Fusion RIVIERAAUSTRALIA.COM

PERFORMANCE DATA : 2 X VOLVO PENTA D13 IPS 1200 @ 900HP, 2 X VOLVO PENTA D13 IPS 1350 @ 1000HP RPM

Knots

L/h

L/NM

Range (NM)

600 900 1100 1300 1500 1700 1900 2100 2200 2300 2400 2470

6.5 8.9 10.2 11.1 13.2 18.9 22.9 27.0 29.1 31.3 33.5 34.9

13 33 60 95 143 176 222 272 301 321 345 364

2.00 3.71 5.83 8.51 10.87 9.31 9.72 10.07 10.33 10.26 10.30 10.43

2025 1092 694 476 372 435 417 402 392 395 393 388

Range is based on 90% of available fuel

Riviera describe their SUV Collection combining the spirited, offshore performance and open cockpit of their flybridge models with the entertaining ease of their freeflowing sport yachts.

58 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Priced for 20-45ft boats.

Setting a new standard in trim & stabilization. Again.

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Priced for 20-45ft boats.

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TA K E S Y O U R B O AT I N G T O T H E NEXT LEVEL

Setting in is an automatic trim a new standard LIGHTNING by HumphreeTM is an automatic trim brings world class trim &&stabilization. stabilization system Again. that brings world class and fuel savings. comfort, increased speed and fuel savings.

PricedLIGHTNING for 20-45ft boats.

0-45ft boats. is suitable for 20-45ft boats.

Its combination of our advanced technology, vanced technology, LIGHTNING by HumphreeTM is an automatic trim user-friendly interface, mobile app integration, bile app integration, & stabilization system that brings world class and beautiful underwater LED lighting system is comfort,is increased speed and fuel savings.

ED lighting system what truly sets it apart.

LIGHTNING is suitable for 20-45ft boats.

No matter which propulsion system you use; Its combination of our advanced technology,

n system you use; outboards, electric, sterndrive, inboard—this user-friendly interface, mobile app integration, new system will be the perfect choice for new drive, inboard—this and beautiful underwater LED lighting system is build boats or for when you refit a used boat. It fect choice what for new truly sets it apart. will take you to the next level. refit a used boat. It No matter which propulsion system you use; l.

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COMPANY PROFILE _ AQUILA CATAMARANS

In pursuit of

PERFECTION

One of the largest power catamaran builders in the world, Sino Eagle Yachts has undergone an impressive growth spurt since it first launched in 2012.

Their Aquila range of power catamarans is now established as one of the market leaders in the mid-size power catamaran segment, and its growth doesn't look like stopping anytime soon. Barry Thompson visited their impressive ultra-modern facility in China to learn more about how these boats are built and why they are so highly regarded.

I

t has been a decade since Aquila launched their first power catamaran, the Aquila 48 and from that one vessel, the company has grown in the past 11 years to be a global leader in power catamaran production.

In 2012 Lex Raas started Aquila with Bill McGill, CEO of MarineMax, and the Xiong family to focus 100% on power cats.

This partnership was first established when Sino Eagle Group began building the Aquila 38 specifically for MarineMax's new charter business - MarineMax Vacations.

Aquila 47 Molokai

60 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Right: The Aquila factory covers a 110,00 sqm site comprising four construction buildings, an indoor test pool, riverside launching facilities and an ultra-modern administration block.

Below: In 2012 Lex Raas started Aquila with Bill McGill, CEO of MarineMax, and the Xiong family to focus 100% on power cats.

In 2012, Sino Eagle Group, J&J Design Group, Seaway and MarineMax collaborated to expand the Aquila range by developing a new, purebred power cat. The result was the first true Aquila Power Catamaran, the Aquila 48.

Based in Hangzhou City, China, Sino Eagle Group, recognised as a leader in high-tech composite manufacturing, established a dedicated new Aquila factory in 2012, which provided the Aquila brand with full in-house manufacturing capabilities. This has since been expanded with the 110,00 sqm site comprising four massive construction buildings, an indoor test pool, riverside launching facilities and an ultramodern administration block. Aquila's complex in Hangzhou is impressive. Hangzhou is often revered as one of the most beautiful cities in China, and the Aquila factory reinforces that sentiment.

State-of-the-art is an often-misused description of a modern, technologically advanced production facility, but in the Aquila factory's case, it is absolutely warranted.

While the factory has not gone to full robotics, they prefer to use a dedicated staff of 510 artisan tradesman and admin staff, the construction methods, quality control, and overall management of every aspect is exceptional. Their aim is for perfection in every aspect of the build process.

It is also a 'green' factory with every effort made to reduce emissions. Sino Eagle Group have invested heavily in environmental protection to look after the environment and their employees. There are expansive solar panels on top of the factory roof, designated cutting rooms with strong evacuation fans to prevent dust collection inside the factory and a filtration system for grey water.

CLEAN & GREEN Sales Manager Tommy Qian adds, "We believe that the cleaner the environment in the factory, the better the quality of the parts and ultimately the better the finish of the boats."

Production levels have risen from 13 boats annually 10 years ago to 148 in 2022, and the company has a target of closer to 200 for 2023. Qian says that could be affected by supply chain issues, which is still a problem, especially with larger components such as engines, generators and air-con systems.

Composite materials and timbers are easier to control due to being available locally. While the USA is by far their largest market, taking 75% of the company's production, Europe and Australia continue to grow.

In 2018/19, Aquila produced just under 60 boats a year, and then in 2021, that jumped up to 110 boats, and there has been nothing but positive growth since.

Qian says that this is largely due to having a strong professional, and passionate team, the highest quality construction, a strong dealer network and one of the best designers in the world drawing up their boats.

Qian feels that another reason for the success of Aquila is all the boats are built using high-tech composites, high-density PVC foam, with vinylester and resin infusion. Construction also includes high density PVC/fibre, resin-infused/foam composite bulkheads rather than ply.

"Every component in an Aquila power catamaran is as good as we can source, either locally or from overseas suppliers, and we never compromise on quality", added Qian.

A computer system tracks work progress on the production line with the ability to pull up drawings for the workers. As part of the quality control, every component has a barcode and every worker an ID. POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 61

COMPANY PROFILE _ AQUILA CATAMARANS

The smaller models undergo pre-delivery in an indoor test tank, before shipping to dealers.

There were 50 boats in various stages of construction the floor when the author toured the 288m long assembly factory.

Sales Manager Tommy Qian stands alongside the bulbous bow section, which is added to the Yacht range after the boat comes out of the mould.

All upholstery is done in-house.

Each product is allocated time to complete whatever the task and employees that go over that time are recorded on KPI’s. They receive a bonus if they undercut the time and still pass the required quality checks.

"We work closely with our staff so that if they can see a way to make our processes more efficient, then we listen and, if necessary, implement the changes. That way, we are all working towards producing the best products we can in the most efficient time frame", says Qian.

MULTI DESIGNERS While Slovenian based, J&J are the anchor designers for Aquila and have penciled the Aquila 48 Yacht, 44 Yacht, 54 Yacht and the Aquila 70 Luxury, they are not exclusive.

While they are currently working on three new models in the Sport, Yacht and Luxury segment, Aquila also has reached out to other world renowned powercat designers.

These include VPLP from France that pencilled the Aquila 42 Yacht and also are currently working with the company on another model under development.

Chris Peart Yacht Design (CPYD), a new up and coming designer from South Africa who was responsible for the Aquila 47 Molokai and is also working on another Molokai series. He is also responsible for a 62 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

soon to be announced Aquila 46 Sport with a patented foiling system.

“This will be a break through design and incorporate a lot of the latest foil technology in the world. This is a super exciting boat and initial hull testing commences in August for a late 2024 launching” says Lex Raas.

Kirk Clarke from Hawaii designed the Aquila 28 Molokai in conjunction with Aquila’s Chief Designer Jure Zule, and Morrelli and Melvin (M&M) designed the two small RIBS, plus did the design work of the foils on the Aquila 36 Sport.

All designs (apart from the Aquila 28 Molokai) are CFD and FEA (Finite Element Analysis) tested for structure stresses to identify the high load areas.

Raas says that this is extremely important in the bulkheads of higher speed power cats and it is why boats like the Aquila 70 Luxury and Aquila 47 Molokai ended up with their forward and aft bulkheads 100% epoxy infused carbon to be strong enough to accept the torsional loads and not get to heavy.

“Whenever we are moving into new areas we will also do a full test program as soon as we can get a splash out of the hull. We will place a basic deck on and then ballast up to expected weights and then will rigorously test. This was done on the Aquila

36 Sport and Aquila 28 Molokai and we will be doing the same with the Aquila 46 Sport”, added Raas.

Production of composites at Aquila Boats shipyard is based on emission-free closed moulding technologies used for all GRP components, from the smallest to the largest. The results are clear, lighter and stiffer boats. In addition, this technology is environmentally friendly by eliminating styrene emissions and protecting workers.

Vinyl ester resins are infused, and vacuum bagged, and Resin Transfer Moulded (RTM) is used for hatches, which are frequently opened providing a gelcoat finish on both sides.

Technical fibers, like biax, triax or quadriax rovings, are applied on specific high-stressed areas, and UDs (uni-directional fibers) and carbon fibers are also installed.

All structural panels, even small flat wing bulkheads or bracings, are made from PVCcored composites, and high-density foams are taken to supplement plywood, which is never used except to produce furniture.

Special care is taken to keep the workshops clean, well lit and dust free. All areas where infusion is made have temperature and humidity controls, and constant monitoring systems with displays are installed.

"We run full pre-delivery checks on every boat, either on the river or the smaller

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COMPANY PROFILE _ AQUILA CATAMARANS

Aquila 28 Molokai

boats in our indoor test tank, before shipping them to our dealers. Once the boats are finished, depending on size, they are either trucked or barged to the Port of Shanghai for worldwide distribution", says Qian.

PROPELLER OPTIMISATION One other area that Aquila spend significant time on is propeller optimization.

Every boat the company launch undergoes an extensive in-house testing program with props and engine heights and when they are satisfied they have got the best results they go to market.

“The differences we have seen from recommended props to the final ones we have settled on are quite different.

There are so many variances that this is clearly not only a science and requires a vigorous testing process”, says Raas.

He adds that adding in foils to the equation presents a whole new set of opportunities for optimisation.

The MED production control system requires electronic quality inspection.

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Aquila 70 Luxury

RANGE EXPANDING Aquila offers eight power catamaran models in three categories; Offshore, Sport & Yacht, from 9.38m to 21.26m. The most popular model has been the Aquila 36 Sport, with more than 200 sold. Also, an Aquila favourite is the Aquila 44 Yacht, also with over 200 built and then the Aquila 54, which is currently enjoying hot sales worldwide with 90 sold. Depending on the model, delivery times are between 12 -24 months, with the 54 Yacht out till late 2025.

The unique Aquila Hydro Glide Foil System, on the Aquila 36 Sport is designed by catamaran and foil specialists Morrelli & Melvin Design & Engineering, and the Aquila 42 Yacht by foiling experts VPLP, enhances performance, consumption, and handling. It consists of a main hydrofoil attached slightly aft amidships to each hull and bridges the tunnel. It lifts approximately 40 per cent of the

hull's weight out of the water at cruise speeds. Farther back, twin fins act like an aeroplane's horizontal stabilisers to prevent porpoising at higher speeds.

With an eye on the burgeoning USA outboard performance power catamaran market, Aquila has recently added the Aquila 47 Molokai to its range. Along with the well-established 28 Molokai, it combines fishing capabilities with luxury appointments.

"The 28 Molokai has been extremely successful for us, and we see the highperformance centre console outboard power catamaran market is one of the fastest expanding segments in the US, so the Aquila 47 Molokai, I am sure, will be a big seller for us", says Qian.

The Aquila 47 Molokai is a mid-70 mph boat and is the company's first doublestepped hull with quad outboards. Jean Raas, one of the sons of founder Lex Raas

is running all of Aquila's new projects, and his leadership is bringing exciting new ideas. Raas's other son Alain is the Aquila Brand Manager at MarineMax. The first show for the Molokai 47 will be the 2023 FLIBS. Qian added that they are continually developing new models as market influences dictate, so there will be much more from Aquila over the coming years.

"We are always open to suggestions and love the feedback from our owners and dealers on how we can make what we already consider a great boat even greater".

Aquila offers a 5-year structural hull warranty, and all other equipment is under the manufacturer's warranty. Aquila also produces 4.2m and 5.3m powercat RIBs, often chosen by Aquila Yacht owners for their boat's tender.

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“We are always open to suggestions and love the feedback from our owners and dealers on how we can make what we already consider a great boat even greater.”

TOMMY QIAN

66 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

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PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ VICEM 55 CLASSIC

A MODERN CLASSIC When I hear Vicem, I immediately think of a meticulously hand-crafted yacht, built using a cold moulded build process and mahogany timbers. This Turkish yard is one of the few 'production' builders in the world that still uses this construction style. However, while they still retain the heritage of building the 'old fashioned' way, they now offer some of their models in fibreglass composite. One such model is the Vicem 55 Classic.

BY BARRY THOMPSON

68 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

T

his cold moulded process involves applying layers of thin solid-wood veneers, oriented at different angles, to be saturated by epoxy over a computer-designed mould. With substantial forward orders for the Vicem 55 Classic, the company needed to move on from this somewhat slow build process. With the Vicem 55 Classic, construction is the more conventional fibreglass method using GRP, sandwich PVC and vinyl ester resin.

The Vicem 55 Classic falls in the middle of Vicem's Custom range, which spans from 14m to 24m overall. Available in sedan style or flybridge, the 55 Classic typifies what Vicem boats are all about.

Classic style with modern amenities. With over 150 boats built over the last twenty-five years, the Vicem 55 Classic has stood out as one of the company's most popular models. While the Vicem 55 is the first of this model in Australia, there are already several Vicem's cruising the local coastal waters.

The blend of a luxurious and comfortable cruising experience, with its sleek lines and spacious interior, makes the Vicem 55 Classic a superb cruising boat for Kiwis and Aussies.

There is no escaping from the distinctive external profile of the Classic range, which is very reminiscent of the iconic lobster boats of Maine.

While with the Vicem 55 Classic, Vicem has not forgotten the timber tradition that radiates through the entire boat. Teak is in Vicem's DNA, and the 55 is no exception. Teak decks, cockpit sole, swim platform, multiple tables and tow rails are all teak. Fashioned to the highest standard, the teak finish brings back the classic boat era, when timber was the paramount choice of boat building.

The yacht's interior is finished with high-gloss or semi-glass, mahogany or oak combined with modern materials and fittings, there is a seamless blend.

The Vicem 55 Classic is traditional yet modern and will appeal to anyone looking for a coastal cruiser.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 69

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ VICEM 55 CLASSIC

The Vicem 55 Classic cockpit lends itself to entertain with a large L-shaped lounger to starboard.

A forepeak master has a queen-sized island berth with abundant storage options.

Beautifully finished timber sliding doors lead to the cockpit, which is spacious with ample seating for all guests.

CUSTOM LAYOUTS

Vicem is a semi-custom boat builder, so you can change layouts. The first Vicem 55 Classic in Australia featured a traditional two-cabin, two ensuite design. Other options include a three-cabin format, which sees the downstairs galley moved upstairs.

Our Vicem 55 Classic featured a master stateroom forward and a VIP to starboard, each with its ensuite bathroom, with the VIP bathroom doubling as the day head. The large ensuite comes complete with a mosaiclined shower cubicle and rain shower.

A forepeak master has a queen-sized island berth with abundant storage options, including deep-hanging lockers. The proliferation of oak or mahogany timber, offset by light fabrics and roof panelling, is accentuated by large hull windows, allowing natural light to flood the cabin. While the boat is fully air-conditioned, all the cabins have opening side ports, with an extra deck hatch in the master.

There is an obvious perception of attention to making even the smallest detail as perfect as possible, with the interior a masterpiece in detailing. Just look at the joinery; you can see that the builders are artisans when working with timber.

The VIP stateroom has a pair of generous single berths with an infill to form a double. Like the master stateroom, storage is plentiful, and an extra-large hull window lets in plenty of natural light. If you need more accommodation, there is an additional Pullman berth in the saloon.

70 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

You have the option of galley up or down, depending on your berth arrangement.

A double helm chair is fixed, with a pantograph door alongside for easy access to the side

The dash is available in either traditional or modern.

As this was the two-cabin model, the galley is downstairs and while not so common on locally built boats, it works fine. The large atrium brings plenty of light and spaciousness to the galley, so you don't feel confined. The Vicem 55 Classic lacks nothing when preparing a meal, with a convection microwave, two burner hob, two drawer fridge freezer and plenty of storage space below the composite bench and above.

If you go for the three-cabin model, this space is replaced by a twin berth cabin with two single berths, with the galley above the saloon deck level.

With the galley down, the saloon is exposed to plenty of seating and in the case of our boat, we had a settee lounger on either side with a moveable coffee table and a couple of ottomans. Even when the galley is brought into the saloon and replaces the atrium, the seating layout mostly stays the same.

TRADITIONAL OR MODERN

When you take delivery of a new Vicem 55 Classic Sedan, it comes complete. The electronics package is your choice, with the owner of our boat favouring a pair of Garmin 12" screens. The dash is available in either traditional or modern. The traditional layout is a timber finish with a two-tier console to flush mount your electronics, controls, Fusion head unit, switches, etc. The modern option is all about leather and chrome.

It is up to you to choose a style. I like the traditional look as it is more in keeping with the visual aspects of the rest of the boat. Simple, practical and everything at an easy reach.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 71

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ VICEM MARITIMO 55 CLASSIC S75 SEDAN MOTOR YACHT

The Vicem 55 Classic falls in the middle of Vicem's Custom range, which spans from 14m to 24m overall.

A double helm chair is fixed, with a pantograph door alongside for easy access to the side deck and in case you need to go forward to sort out an anchoring issue.

All interior and exterior fabrics are finished with diamond pattern stitching and an extremely high level of fit and finish. The top-tier woodwork with high-gloss varnish is another upgraded option, as is the choice of timbers.

The saloon and accommodation areas remain the same for the flybridge version of the Vicem 55 Classic, with an external staircase from the starboard side of the cockpit.

LET'S ENTERTAIN

Beautifully finished timber sliding doors lead to the cockpit, which is spacious with ample seating for all guests. The Vicem 55 Classic cockpit lends itself to entertain with a large L-shaped lounger to starboard, overhead shade provided by the cabin overhang, and a soft bimini extension. In keeping with tradition, the cockpit sole is genuine teak, with a high gloss timber 72 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

finish high/low table. The cap rails, coamings and external handrails are mahogany, as are the entire rear bulkhead and doors.

To port is a fridge and BBQ, with copious storage throughout the cockpit. There is a single access to the full-width boarding platform and outdoor shower.

VOLVO POWERED

The Vicem 55 Classic Sedan is powered by a pair of Volvo Penta IPS650s, providing a top speed of 26 knots and a cruising speed of around 20 knots. Based on 90% fuel available, the boat returns a range of approximately 280 nm at 20 knots, using 6.6 lpnm. Interestingly, the range varies very little from 2600 rpm (310 nm) to 3400 rpm (280nm), showing how efficient this hull is.

Even at maximum rpm with the fuel burn at 188 litres total, you still get a 250nm range.

It's an easy boat to drive, and a bow thruster certainly helps when returning to the marina's berth. Even in rough seas, the deep-V hull ensures a smooth and stable ride.

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PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ VICEM MARITIMO 55 CLASSIC S75 SEDAN MOTOR YACHT

The VIP stateroom has a pair of generous single berths with an infill to form a double.

The Vicem 55 Classic Sedan is powered by a pair of Volvo Penta IPS650s, providing a top speed of 26 knots.

SUPER IMPRESSED

The Vicem 55 Classic is traditional yet modern and will appeal to anyone looking for a coastal cruiser, day boat or a vessel for entertaining their friends. The option of a two or three-cabin layout in either sedan or flybridge means the Vicem 55 Classic will appeal to a broader market. I have reviewed very few boats built in Turkey, and I must admit I was super impressed with the overall finish and detailing, especially with the woodwork.

Blending the durable grp hull with a powerful presence of timber, Vicem has taken the classic look of its oldstyle heritage and firmly placed it into today's market.

SPECIFICATIONS

BOAT DESIGN NAME Vicem 55 Classic DESIGNER Vicem Yacht Design Team COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Turkey YEAR LAUNCHED 2023 PRICE AS TESTED $NZ2.7m STYLE Sedan Cruiser BUILDER Vicem Yachts LOA 16.85m BEAM 4.41m DRAFT 1.12m DISPLACEMENT (DRY) 24.8 tonne MAX SPEED 26 knots CONSTRUCTION GRP & Vinlyester Resin FUEL CAP 2000 litres ENGINE MAKE 2 x Volvo Penta IPS 650 MFD 2 x Garmin 16 TABS Bennett ENT SYSTEM Fusion WINCH LOFRANS X3 LIGHTING LED BOW THRUSTER Sidepower AIR CON Dometic LEIGH-SMITH.COM

74 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

PERFORMANCE DATA : 2 X VOLVO PENTA IPS 650 RPM 2000 2400 2600 2800 3000 3200 3400 3580

Knots 9.4 11.0 13.0 15.0 17.0 20.0 23.2 26.0

L/h 38 62 78 98 118 132 151 188

Range is based on 90% of available fuel

L/NM 4.100 5.700 6.000 6.600 7.000 6.600 6.600 7.300

Range (NM) 460 330 310 280 270 280 280 250

S P E C I F I C AT I O N S

Hull Design: Asymmetric Length overall: 13.02m Beam: 4.69m Draft: 0.600m Fuel: 1600 ltr Water: 620 ltr Displacement: 11,700kg Engines: 2 x Mercury 600hp V12 Top Speed: 47 knots Cruise Speed: 25 knots Construction: Aluminium

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KIWI TRAILER BOATS BY THE DECADES _ 1940S TO 1959

THE HISTORY OF KIWI TRAILER BOATS

BY THE DECADES PART ONE: From the end of WW2 to the end of the 1950s

BY BARRY THOMPSON, DOUG DUKESON & PETER J. MORGAN

76 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

A 1950s Seacraft Costa Mesa

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 77

KIWI TRAILER BOATS BY THE DECADES _ 1940S TO 1959

DIY RULED After the Second World War, Kiwis once again looked at their leisure time, and as prosperity returned, the more adventurous thought about getting back on the water.

While sailing boomed and with it, the launch and cruiser market, trailerable power boats were a little slower to take off.

Power options, unlike today, were limited for trailer boats. In the postwar years of the 1940s, the two giants of the outboard industry, OMC (Johnson & Evinrude) and Mercury, founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, were both producing twincylinder 20 hp outboards. In 1948, Mercury released the Thunderbolt, a compact and sleek 4 cyl.-in-line 25hp outboard. OMC meanwhile topped out at a similar horsepower with its 2-cyl. Big Twin. However, because of import controls, these outboards were extremely rare. Only one 25hp Mercury Thunderbolt came to New Zealand, and it was fitted to a 4.3 m runabout designed and built in 1948 by young Whangarei boatbuilder Richard Hartley (b. 1927), for Whangarei General Motors car dealer Jack Morgan, who christened her Miss Vauxhall.

It was the age of outboard innovation, and the horsepower race had started between OMC and Kiekhaefer. This was a gamechanger for the trailerboat market. While 25hp was fine for a small, lightweight runabout, it wasn’t ideal for a larger cabin boat. Most trailer boats in those days were built of timber and were heavy, which meant that the marinised automotive engine was the most common choice.

That saw the rise of engine marinisation companies, with one of the best known being owned and run by Ron Augustin.

Ron was the son of Carl Augustin, who is regarded as the father of New Zealand trailer boating, with a history of building and designing boats that dated back to

A Carl Augustin 16" Cabin Cruiser

78 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Miss Vauxhall, Richard Hartley designed and built, powered by a 25hp Mercury Thunderbolt had a top speed of 23.5 knots

the early 1920s.

In the late 1940s, he released the 6m Overlander, New Zealand’s first high-speed trailerable family cruiser. This plywood boat, shaft-driven by a marinised 4-cyl.

Ford 10 car engine, had a top speed of 21 mph, which was outstanding for the time.

The boat launched Carl Augustin’s career as a designer and builder of trailer boats.

By the 1950s, Carl Augustin was busy selling boat plans and building boats, while son Ron was producing practically everything amateur home and professional boat builders needed to complete the drivetrain of an inboard powered boat, including struts, rudders, propellers and steering systems.

The plywood and glues developed during the war that Carl Augustin used for his Overlander were transforming the construction process for small boats. It was also the beginning of do-it-yourself

boat building. By the early 1950s, all around New Zealand, home builders were building boats, whether from scratch or from kitsets, with the smell of freshly cut timber and plywood, resorcinol glue permeating, and the tapping of copper nails reverberating, in back sheds everywhere.

By the early 1950s, Kiwis could purchase bigger horsepower outboards, making them a better option for powering a trailer boat.

Inboards were still popular, and we also saw the development of better boat trailers, plus the cars to tow them. Mark 10 Jaguars, Standard Vanguards and Humber Super Snipes from the UK and Dodge, Plymouth, Ford and Chevrolet from the USA were popular tow vehicles. Dedicated boat ramps started to appear around the country, with space to park a car with a boat trailer attached. Westhaven, built in the late 1930s when the breakwater was constructed along the Western end of St Mary’s Bay, had a wide multi-lane launching ramp in the 1950s on the Western side of the marina.

The multi-lane ramp at the Eastern end has since replaced this.

By 1955, the outboard cruiser was becoming popular, and although very few, the interest was growing. Since WW2, two significant developments were mainly responsible for the growth in outboardpowered boats. The first was using resinbonded plywood to turn out light, cheap, strong and easily mass-produced planing hulls and the second was the introduction of gear shifts to outboard motors in 1951.

Things have come a long way since then, and little did we know the far-reaching implications the trailer boat market would have on the New Zealand boating industry. More importantly, the recreational outboard scene was about to boom at proportions never envisaged.

Only small outboards were available to power ‘big’ trailerable cruisers.

Fi Glass started building fibreglass boats 65 years ago with this 3.8 m clinker, which later became the Fi-Glass Fisherman.

GRP IS BORN, BUT PLYWOOD RULES Local builders didn’t immediately accept Fibreglass or GRP (glass reinforced plastic), but when it did around the 1960s, it changed the industry forever, Fibreglass was developed in the UK during the Second World War to replace the moulded plywood used in aircraft radomes (GRP being transparent to microwaves).

There is a common misperception that fibreglass boats existed only from the 1950s, although it is true that serious production

for the commercial market started about then. The fibreglass boat revolution began when polyester resin, invented in 1935, was used to build the first known fibreglass boat, a dinghy made in the USA in 1942. The resin required reinforcement, and builders experimented with various materials (even palm fronds) before settling on glass fibres.

Other fibreglass boats followed, an example appearing at a US boat show in 1947.

By the mid-1950s, the smells in local boat shops were changing. The tang of wood shavings was giving way to resins and glass fibres, and the writing was on the wall.

Although many of the leading trailer boat builders loved building timber boats, they knew that fibreglass was becoming the boat building material of the future.

Unless they changed, their company would be left behind.

www. gmts.io POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 79

KIWI TRAILER BOATS BY THE DECADES _ 1940S TO 1959

Circa 1950, with an aluminium 18-footer powered by a Johnson Javelin.

In 1955, Arnold France produced New Zealand’s first production fibreglass moulded boats – a range of dinghies from 2.6 m to a 4.0 m runabout. Twenty were built in the first year. The 4.0 m runabout weighed 84 kg (185 lbs) and recorded 30 mph with a 25hp outboard. Gisborne-based Condor Craft was also into small dinghy production and became one of the country’s major trailer boat builders. However, FiGlass turned the industry on its head and took volume boat production to a new level. Fi-Glass founder Frank Simpson, when interviewed by Barry Thompson in the 1970s, said he remembered those early days of fibreglass boat building. “Initially, I was against building fibreglass boats because Arnold France, who built under France Craft, appeared to have the market tied up. They were a bit rough, but solidly built, and I didn’t think there was an opening for another fibreglass boat builder in New Zealand.” However, only about three years after Arnold France started France Craft, Frank Simpson did get into building fibreglass boats in 1958, with the first model being a 12ft (3.7 m) Fisherman dinghy. It was a huge success, and over 65 years later, Fi-Glass boats can be found all over New Zealand and Australia. Fi-Glass is currently one of the largest manufacturers of fibreglass boats in New Zealand, with models from 4.75 m through to 6.4 m.

Over six-and-a-half decades, Fi-Glass has built more than 10,000 fibreglass trailer boats – a number that no other Kiwi trailer boat manufacturer comes close to.

In the mid-1950s, plywood was still the main construction medium for small trailer boats, and inboards were the most common power source. H.E. Cox designed a 4.3 m outboard plywood runabout that ran 14.5 mph with a Johnson 10hp but was looking for a significant increase in speed when the all-new 15hp model arrived.

Jim Young, a name that would become iconic in the annals of Kiwi designers, was making a name for himself with small 80 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

cabin cruisers. He pioneered the use of longitudinal girders instead of the thenconventional transverse frames. He would later become the designer/builder of the Vindex, one of New Zealand’s most popular and best-known cruising launches.

Carl Augustin’s boat plans were selling well, with plans for models like the 6 m Overlander and 5 m Lazy Days available for £5. Popular power was a marinised Ford 10 running Ron Augustin components.

Soon after World War 2, Sandy Sands founded Seacraft, building clinker timber dinghies, runabouts and 4.6 m cabin day boats, the latter available with inboard or outboard power. Many years later, the company switched to fibreglass construction, and today, under the name Haines Hunter New Zealand, it is one of the country’s leading GRP trailer boat builders.

Companies such as Hutchwilco are still around today and stronger than ever.

The popularity of trailer boats soared through the mid to late 1950s and saw the first New Zealand Boat Show, held as part of the 1956 Easter Show.

NZ SHOW BEGINS The popularity of trailer boats soared through the mid to late 1950s and saw the first boat show, held as part of the 1956 Easter Show. The New Zealand Boat Show has been held, under various names, at the Auckland Showgrounds every year since and is New Zealand’s premium trailer boat show. Sea Craft exhibited at the first Auckland Boat Show with a range of clinker-built runabouts and dinghies. A 4.45 m Filco plywood runabout was one of the star attractions. Other brands included Aerolite, Lidgard, France, Tod, Hi-Fi (by Jim Young) and Augustin.

Inboards were still popular, with brands such as Parsons, Graymarine, Stuart Turner, Ford 10, Watermota, Penta, and Norman.

Chris Craft and Chrysler among the market leaders.

In the mid 1950s, outboard brands such as British Seagull, Scott Atwater, West Bend, Konig, Johnson, Evinrude, Mercury and Clinton were available in New Zealand, but import controls and worldwide demand meant numbers were very limited to local customers.

In August 1956, 19 interested people gathered for a meeting chaired by Seaspray editor John Mallitte, and it was agreed that a club known as the Outboard Boating Club of New Zealand be formed along the lines of the OBC in America. From those small beginnings with a handful of members, it has grown to be the country’s largest trailer boat club, with thousands of members and a dedicated base at Okahu Bay, Auckland.

ALLOY ARRIVES… ALMOST Anyone interested in trailer boats in the mid to late 1950s would have heard of Marlin boats. Considered one of the prestige boats of the day, they were built by Sutton Mason & Co Ltd, owned by Cliff Sutton and Tony Mason. The Marlin 17 round bilge cabin cruiser released in 1956 became one of the most popular cabin boats of the time. In 1958, they increased their range to include 5.8 m and 6.7 m models, plus special tilting boom trailers.

Towing a decent size trailer boat required an appropriate tow vehicle, and the American cars were perfect.

In late 1956, an amateur-built 5.7 m aluminium cruiser powered by a Johnson 25 debuted to a mixed response from traditional boat builders. This was arguably New Zealand’s first aluminium trailerable cabin boat.

By the late 1950s, Wilfrid Hoelen’s name started appearing as a specialist builder of plywood boats. In 1959 Hoelen founded Sea Nymph, with the first model being a 12 ft (3.7 m) outboard runabout.

Arnold France released a 5m cabin dayboat built in GRP, the biggest in the country and also introduced the 5.8m France Hi-Fi, complete with alloy hatch, built-in buoyancy, non-skid decks and the option of inboard or outboard power. The beam was just 2.1m, and the aft sections were almost flat.

American C. Raymond Hunt developed the deep-V in the late fifties and early sixties.

However, Kiwi designers favoured relatively flat bottom boats, considering that a deep-V hull form would be unstable at rest because it would float with its chines clear of the water. Another major problem was that at the time, long-shaft outboards were for a transom height of only 20 inches, not the 25, 30 and 35 inches of today.

By the late 1950s, C.W.F. Hamilton’s Hamilton jet boats were gaining popularity in the South Island, but in the North they were regarded as something of an oddity, being seen as riverboats and unsuitable for running offshore. How things have changed.

Onboard electronics were still in their infancy, with radios and fishfinders a rarity.

In 1957, France Craft introduced the radically different France Craft 16, the largest fibreglass production boat in the country.

However, in 1957, Electronic Navigation Ltd introduced the Skipper 10 radio telephone for £51 and the top of the line Skipper 25 for £95. They were amongst the first compact marine radios and were popular in bigger trailer boats and launches.

Paper charts were favoured, and thanks to the Hydrographic Service setting up chart sale agencies throughout the country, they were more readily available to recreational boaties.

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POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 81

KIWI TRAILER BOATS BY THE DECADES _ 1940S TO 1959

TIMBER STILL KING Always an innovator, in 1958, Carl Augustin showed off his prototype tunnel drive system using a conventional propeller and underwater gear. The public never really bought into it, although DIYs built plenty of boats with the tunnel drive concept. It was the prop and drive protection, plus the ability to get into shallow water, that people liked. Leo Young, the king of fast speedboat racing SK hulls, went a step further and developed a tunnel drive system, arguably the most efficient available, and sold them as moulded fibreglass units ready to be installed in wooden or fibreglass hulls.

Rex Henry gained prominence for custom built timber runabouts and later became the chief designer for Fleetline Boats, one of the largest fibreglass boat builders for many years.

Richard Hartley’s boat plans enjoyed continued popularity amongst amateur builders, as did Carl Augustin’s, but the fibreglass revolution was starting. Plylite Boat Construction of Paraparaumu was New Zealand’s largest producer of plywood

photos and became one of the most widely read boatbuilding books ever, not just in New Zealand, but world-wide. The sale of his boat plans all over the world, for rowing dinghies, powerboats and sailing vessels, made Richard Hartley quite a wealthy man.

Down in the Waikato, Rollo Dutton started building plywood trailer boats in 1958 (through to the 1960s). He built 180 boats of varying sizes from 15’ to 25’ inboard and outboard styles, based on Carl Augustin designs. After this, Rollo changed the business to retail, selling some of the early start GRP boats such as Crestacraft, Condorcraft and Fi-Glass.

FIBREGLASS GAINS MOMENTUM

craft, with over 30 boats in various stages of production at any one time. They launched a new kitset enterprise for the Australian and New Zealand markets with 1000 sets of plans for two different models and sold them all.

Some other new brand names that gained popularity during the 1950s were Fleetcraft, Willetts, Brin Wilson, Sportcraft, Vistacraft and Falcon. Vistacraft went on to be a popular fibreglass brand years later.

Another notable brand name of the time was Marksply (Dave Marks), who built 5.2 m, 5.8 m and 6.1 m lapstrake plywood cabin runabouts.

Sonata Laboratories introduced the Falcon 15, a 4.6m cabin boat aimed at the easyto-build kitset market. Hartley’s Guide to Boat Building featured 80 diagrams and 45 82 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

We started to see adverts in Sea Spray magazine for galvanised and zinc-sprayed pipe steel trailers advertised by Tapper Transport of Auckland to suit 3.5 m to 6 m boats. The trailers were very crude by today’s standards but certainly did the job they were designed for.

I remember my father welding up his own pipe trailer to put under his home-built 6.1m Hartley.

The OBC held a boat show in the carpark of the Farmers Trading Co, attended by over 15000 people. Two-thirds of the 47 boats on display were amateur designed and built. There was only one imported boat, and the centrepiece was Jack Stewart’s 6.5m Naiad. Other attractions were an electric trailer winch, an electro-hydraulic motor tilt, an automatic ski reel and the latest Hutchwilco life jackets from J.F. Hargrave Ltd. In 1958, one of New Zealand’s most respected boat builders, Collings & Bell, based in St Mary’s Bay, Auckland, built their last boat, a 5.2m runabout powered by a Hamilton jet. They were forced to close due to the opening of the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

1958 also saw the formation of the

Top: Rollo Dutton built a 5.8 m boat, powered by twin 40hp Evinrudes, towed by a trusty Vanguard.

Above: Seacraft 16ft cabin dayboat.

National Water Ski Association, and Hamilton Jets conquered the Colorado River and gained worldwide recognition for inventor C.W.F. Hamilton of Christchurch.

As the 1950s drew to a close, trailer boats had seen massive growth with more professional builders, but still a strong DIY sector. Outboards had increased to 70hp, although they were hard to get because customers still needed overseas funds to buy them. There was still a big DIY market and along with Carl Augustin, Richard Hartley, Plylite, Jim Young, Len Hodgkinson and others were busy selling plans for the home builder.

Sixty boats were on show at the OBC’s second boat show at the Farmers Trading Co. carpark. Smart new paint jobs and racy interiors were now becoming more common. New trailer boat brands appeared – Seaworthy Craft, Marlin, Mastercraft, Victor, Smallboats, Flaircraft, Mitchcraft, South Pacific and Duraglass. All of them have long since gone.

New Zealand’s first power catamaran was launched at Kawerau by A. Sayers. Powered by a Ford V8, it was built from four flying boat wing floats with the tails chopped off and joined together. The power cat revolution had started….well almost.

While outboards were certainly taking root with the trailer boat fraternity, Arnold France was not letting them take all the market and, in 1959 released his France Craft Senior stern drive.

This was a significant breakthrough in trailer boat propulsion.

With the sad recent passing of Barry Thompson (along with the loss of his wealth of power boat knowledge), we will still be looking to continue this series and cover the decade of the 1960s in the Jan/Feb issue.

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ NIMBUS T8

The Nimbus T8 is a boat that seamlessly crosses over from a megayacht tender to a family day boat and overnighter.

84 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

TENDER & FUNKY

The T8 is the smallest of three Tender models from Nimbus, but these boats have lots of funky ways to make one piece of equipment transform into something else – so you get a lot of activities in one boat.

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PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ NIMBUS T8

A well laid out, uncluttered helm, complete with two 7 inch Simrad MFDs.

Opposite page: The aft seats have several positions with good storage below.

(Top 4 images)

A large door for the head makes it easier to enter and exit.

The bow area offers more storage and with an infill, makes a great area to relax.

86 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

A

s superyachts have got bigger and increasingly sophisticated, so have their tenders. As well as providing a passenger service, they exploit their small-boat advantage of being ideal for picnicking, exploring bays, diving, swimming and watching yacht races. All of which suits family boating: not too big, not too small, but safe, comfortable and with plenty of ways to enjoy the water.

And so it is with the Tender series of Scandinavian builder Nimbus, whose megayacht tenders proved ideal as family dayboats.

PERFORMANCE

The T8 was designed as a tender and evolved to become a family cruiser, so it's most comfortable at cruising speeds. With the single 300hp Mercury turning a 19-pitch Rev 4 prop, its sweetest cruise speed is 26.1 knots at 4000rpm. At around 26 knots, she goes right through the waves and has time to penetrate those waves. The 37.6 lph fuel burn offered a range of 149.8 nautical miles, while still holding a 10% reserve of the boat's total 240 L fuel capacity.

Apply the power, and her speed topped out at 46 knots at 5980rpm, but then she's opposing the waves and hitting hard. Slow things down, take it easy, keep it at cruise speed and everybody will be comfortable on board. With 4 ½ turns from lock to lock, she's responsive to the helm.

The T8 features the air-lubricated stepped hull which, Nimbus believes, provides excellent seafaring qualities and a low planing threshold.

COCKPIT CENTRAL

The cockpit is the central gathering area on the T8, specifically for its 152.4cm wide, forward-facing bench seat, like the back seat of a family car. It’s just aft of a collapsible table mounted behind the helm and observer’s seats. But, like a seat on a commuter train, the back of the forward-facing seat flips forward to create an aft-facing lounge. Drop the seatback all the way, and you’ve just created a large sunbed. The aft section lifts to reveal a storage bag snapped into place around the perimeter; unsnapped, it reveals the mechanical components such as bilge pumps and steering pump.

In another configuration to this area, the table, in solid teak with a satin finish and beverage holders, flips up into the usable position. The helm and observer seats flip their backs to face the bench seat with the table in between. This cosy alfresco setting for four can be enclosed in Isinglass for three-season comfort.

Throughout, good, practical thinking abounds. Beneath the bench cushion is a fully gasketed hatch supported with a gas strut, which lifts to reveal a storage locker.

A channel directs water away from the interior to keep it dry.

The under-seat storage is home to an electrical panel that includes the battery switches, crossover switches, main breakers, gauges for the water tank and the 41.64L diesel tank that powers the Webasto cabin heater and the hot water heater.

Even with the larger footprint of the sunbed configuration, there’s still full walkaround capability on

three sides. We measured 30.5cm between the seat and the bulwarks that come up to 271cm with rails that top out at 78.74cm.

STERN TREATMENT

The power options are a 200, 250 or 300hp outboard for which there is full walkaround capability, which is good for maintenance and easy access between the seating area and the stern. A tow sport bar over the outboard engine provides a convenient grab handle when transitioning across the stern or when using the three-step boarding ladder to the starboard platform.

The port side has a feature which is rare Downunder: a stern anchor and its windlass. In Scandanavia, boats are routinely anchored at the stern while passengers step ashore from the bow. That’s a less common scenario in New Zealand and Australia, but it’s likely the stern anchor will prove useful in other ways: for example, keeping the bow into the waves at anchor or when securing it off a beach.

There are swim platforms on both sides; a hatch in the portside step conceals a propane tank for the optional gas grill that mounts beside the helm. Also to port is the shore power. Modules either side hold lines and fenders.

SHELTER AND SHADE

In the standard configuration, the helm and seating have no overhead protection. The options are a T-Top with a polycarbonate roof and canopy or, as on our test boat, a fibreglass hardtop with smoked plexi skylights. It’s 1.96m off the deck and even though it is angled down at the forward end, a step down at the helm brings it to 1.98m. Heavy-duty supports serve as grabrails to the sides and a track holds a zipper to allow the main deck area to be enclosed. Brackets in the deck secure the bottom of the enclosure. A rail to the trailing edge can accommodate optional rocket launcher style rod holders.

Other features in this hardtop include rails, courtesy lights, enclosure support and skylights. There are even racks at the hardtop to support stand-up paddleboards and a spreader light at the front.

Left to right: The helm is simple and uncluttered.

Below, there’s a two-person berth for overnighting.

There is plenty of room to socialise.

Even with the larger footprint of the sun-bed conversion, there’s still full walk-around capability to three sides.

With the helm and observer's seats can be rotated around to face the table.

The sink has counter space alongside and storage underneath.

SIDE DECKS

The symmetrical layout provides 30.5cm wide side decks to port and starboard. Bulwarks at the cabin sides are 38cm high and rails top out at 50cm. Decking is standard moulded non-skid but owners can choose from teak decking or Eco-Teak. There are three cleats on each side and a bracket to secure a canvas enclosure.

RELAXING ON THE BOW

The bow is always a favourite spot for someone and they will enjoy the lounge seat/sunbed that extends 61cm from a backrest and to 137cm with a filler cushion.

Beneath the main cushion is a hatch above the berth below; this is handy when loading items into the cabin.

The foredeck is on a raised platform with Flexiteek providing non-skid access off the bow through the spilt rails. A hatch at the bow protects an electric windlass, optional, which services the anchor on its dedicated roller. Brackets at the caprails support an optional beach boarding ladder.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 87

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ NIMBUS T8

The Nimbus T8 has well-thought-out solutions, that add functionality and comfort for a safe day out on the water.

AT THE HELM

The helm is starboard-mounted, with a panel suitable for a generous display up to 30.48cm.

The Zipwake tab control is to the left of the screen. Electrical switches are below and to the left, and a small cubby ahead of the wheel includes connectivity. A remote beside the console controls the bow thruster, standard on all Nimbus boats, and fore and aft windlasses.

A smoked plexi door at the helm down to the two-person, 193cm berth beneath the foredeck.

There’s space for an optional sink to port, just across from the head compartment.

OBSERVATIONS

The Nimbus T8 delivers Scandinavian styling and sensibility with a range of options, wellcrafted in a small space. She won’t win speed records but she’s highly functional, easy to handle with bow thruster, fore and aft windlass anchoring and three cleats a side. She keeps her crew safe and comfortable, while providing for many on-water activities – a suite of qualities that have made her ideal as a megayacht tender and a family fun boat.

88 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

SPECIFICATIONS Model Nimbus T8 Priced from NZ $ 276,000 Length Overall 7.93 M Beam 2.54 M Dry Weight 2,300 Kg Draft 0.96 M Fuel Capacity 240 L Water Capacity 50 L Engine Options STD. POWER 1 x 200-hp Mercury Verado V6, OPT. POWER 1 x 250-hp Mercury Verado V8, 1 x 300-hp Mercury Verado V8 Available from Sports Marine – Auckland, Christchurch and Sydney.

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MARITIMO 20 TH ANNIVERSARY _ CHAPTER 2

A TALE OF TWO M60S In the second chapter of Maritimo’s 20th anniversary celebration, we are inspired by the passion and pride of two owners of Maritimo M60s from different eras, 20 years apart.

90 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

P

eter Robson owns the Maritimo 60 Flybridge Motor Yacht “Class Act”, the first to ever roll out of the Maritimo factory 20 years ago. Jamie Montgomery has owned three Maritimo’s over the years and is now the proud owner of “Dirty Deeds”, a 2023 Maritimo M60 Flybridge Motor Yacht that is heir to the legacy. Although separated by two decades, Peter and Jamie are bound by their shared love of family and the brand they chose to fulfil their boating dreams.

Peter Robson, the owner of the original Maritimo 60 Flybridge, “Class Act”, looks back over two decades of boating memories that echo the very essence of what it means to be a Maritimo owner. “Twenty years is a long time, but it has flown by. We still get compliments on how good it looks,” he says, referring to his Maritimo 60 which is in as superb condition today as when it was handed over. “She’s called Class Act, because she truly is.”

The original Maritimo 60 was launched in 2004, the ground-breaking product of Bill Barry-Cotter’s vision for a true bluewater motor yacht with an array of innovative features to suit the contemporary boating lifestyle. Revolutionary at the time were traits such as a superbly engineered hull designed for smooth long-range cruising, wide walkaround decks, the galley aft at the heart of the social space, spacious accommodation, and an internal staircase leading to the climate controlled enclosed flybridge sky lounge.

Praising Maritimo’s innovative spirit, Peter recalls the launch of the first Maritimo 60 back in 2004. The industry was forever changed, as Maritimo redefined the flybridge cruising motor yacht category. Their unwavering commitment to dependable engineering and systems, straight shaft technology, large fuel capacity, and fuel-efficient

performance cemented Maritimo’s status as one of Australia’s leading long-range luxury motor yacht builders.

Peter and his wife, Marilyn have four children, 10 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, all of whom are just as passionate about boating as he is. “We’re water people! The whole family have learnt to swim on holidays on board Class Act. We love spending Boxing Day on board – not all at once, though. 26 people is our limit.”

His deep love of the water found a perfect match in Maritimo’s exceptional blue water pedigree and offshore cruising prowess.

In two decades, there have been no major changes to his beloved Class Act. “I’ve never had one regret about buying into the Maritimo brand. When we see other Maritimos out on the water, we wave and feel proud that we’re in the club.”

At 79 years of age, Peter has no thoughts of slowing down, or swapping his M60.

In fact, Peter and Marilyn are planning their next adventure. “I believe we should never stop learning. We are keen to see more of Australia. We want to explore the Kimberley Coast with 12 or so on board.”

Further north, Jamie Montgomery and his wife Erin and their four daughters, are

intent on living life to the full, sharing quality time with family and friends. Jamie is a passionate boatie and owner of a 2023 Maritimo M60 Flybridge Motor Yacht, “Dirty Deeds”, with its distinctive dark-grey roof. The new M60 represents the evolution of the original 60-foot flybridge with which Maritimo established its fleet 20 years ago.

Since 2011, Jamie has owned three Maritimos and, now on his fourth with “Dirty Deeds”, he’s proud to be a member of the Maritimo family. Fanatical about design, engineering and the ethereal benefits of boating, Jamie says he uses his boat “properly”, getting year-round enjoyment from the on-water lifestyle.

As a family, they have spent many years exploring the tranquil waters of Lake Macquarie, cruising the east coast, from Sydney, Pittwater, Newcastle, Port S tephens, the Gold Coast to Tangalooma.

Jamie is a self-confessed stickler for practical, harmonious design. It’s his livelihood and his preference when it comes to leisure. “I want efficient, functional, fast, not fiddly boating, which is why Maritimo has always appealed to me,” he says. “Before I bought my first boat, I did my homework.

The Aegean 60 had a full-beam master,

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 91

MARITIMO 20 TH ANNIVERSARY _ CHAPTER 2

which was way ahead of its time. Bill is a visionary and his flybridge models are iconic for their balance and proportions.

“Maritimos are Australian made, meticulously designed and constructed with a fantastic flow and heaps of features.

They’re boats built for all conditions and they’re ideal for the Australian lifestyle.”

When it came time for their next Maritimo, the new M60 beckoned. “It’s at the forefront of the new generation of Maritimo motor yachts, even better design and styling,” Jamie says. “Tom has achieved absolutely enlightened design,” he says, with admiration for Maritimo’s new era in styling and optimal use of space.

“The fully-enclosed flybridge is exactly what people want. It delivers even more usable space on board, especially in the flybridge with its unique use of space with

widening the bridge out over the wings.

There are dozens of new features such as the Adventure Deck, huge flybridge aft deck, larger captain’s lounge, huge tender and toy storage garage, panoramic opening side windows, king bed in the master, increased storage solutions, you have the option of three tender storage options of traditional foredeck, tender garage or mounted on rear hydraulic platform.”

According to Jamie, the Adventure Deck is the “cherry on top” of the features integral to the DNA of all Maritimo models: wide, walkaround decks, fuel-efficient hull design and construction, long-range cruising capacity, superior engineering and most importantly, shaft-drive propulsion.

For added performance and control, Jamie opted for the Scania engine upgrades and

Twin Disc gear box and Express Joystick System (EJS) & hold station. We cruised to Sydney, and I was preparing to dock the boat with the hold station on, even in a howling wind while getting ropes and fenders ready, it helps you immensely and provides hassle free boating. Erin can reverse the boat in. It makes it so easy.”

“We work hard and when we have time off, our boat is our escape,” Jamie says, already envisaging long summer days reclining and entertaining on the M60 Adventure Deck.

Jamie’s story is a classic tale of satisfying heart and mind and managing to balance the two. “Aesthetics and functionality are important to me,” says this doyen of residential construction. “Through my design eyes, the M60 is the embodiment of the perfect flybridge motor yacht. It’s the future of boating.”

STAY TUNED FOR NEXT STORY AS WE TAKE AN EVEN CLOSER LOOK AT THE FIRST MARITIMO – 48 & 52

92 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

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BARRY THOMPSON _ A TRIBUTE TO OUR POWERBOAT GURU

BARRY ROBERT THOMPSON 13 May 1951 – 8 September 2023

T

he family, friends and colleagues of the late, great, legendary, though characteristically very humble Kiwi marine journalist, father, husband and world powerboat racing champion, Barry Thompson have been left shocked and saddened at his recent passing, on Friday 8 September 2023.

the New Zealand Herald. Since then, the magazines he has worked on read like a history of marine publishing over many decades: Seaspray, Powerboat, Nautical News, Boating World, NZ Fisherman, and more recently, with his good mate Doug Dukeson, Propeller, Alloy Boat and Pacific Powerboat Magazines.

Husband to Soraja, father to Carl, Mitchell and Travis – long-time business partner of Doug Dukeson and mentor to so many, Barry left this world far too soon and the tributes and celebrations of his life, both in NZ and Australia, are testament of the lives he touched.

Barry had also been a keen participant in and supporter of powerboat racing in New Zealand, and it would probably be fair to say that no one has done more to promote the sport than Barry. Barry and his good mate Glen Urquhart were the only Kiwis to have won a UIM World Powerboat Championship, achieving the title in Guernsey in 1986.

Barry, until recently, the co-publisher and editor of Powerboat and Alloy Boat magazines, was a familiar sight at boat shows, factories, and international marine industry events. His relaxed persona, wit and good humour, was a testament to his humble nature, even though many would say that his industry and product knowledge surpassed that of most others in the marine industry.

Barry first entered the marine industry working under the great John Malitte at 94 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Barry’s early years saw him confront some significant challenges with an offshore accident in 1986, where Barry sustained serious injuries. The strength and fortitude of the man were evident when, within a month, he was back to writing, and within a year, he was back behind the wheel of another race boat. As a result of this accident, measures were taken to make the sport safer for participants.

In 2009, Barry was inducted into the New Zealand Boat Show Hall of Fame by the Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show for his services to the industry, where he had been helping to promote the event and the marine industry for almost 40 years.

In receiving the award, it was said that “In that time, he has probably spent more time afloat, in boats of all sizes, than any other member of the industry.” Without a doubt, Barry has written more boat tests and done more to promote powerboating than anyone else in NZ. Locally, he was revered for his promotion of New Zealand overseas, introduced engine shoot-outs, and was instrumental in making offshore powerboat racing a safer sport.

Late 2022 Barry with over 50 years of marine publishing, had negotiated a semiretirement package with 26 year business partner Doug Dukeson, to enable him to kick back and enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle, which he had been doing in more recent times.

Barry is a loss to our industry, and his absence will be deeply felt.

BARRY THOMPSON _ A TRIBUTE TO OUR POWERBOAT GURU

There were hundreds of calls from friends and industry associates past and present, along with many messages received from around the world following Barry’s passing… these are just some of them…

A truly wonderful man whom will be missed by so many. - Glynis Ryder,

Motor Yacht Service Centre A very sad day indeed.

- Pete Dick, Yamaha NZ

He was one of the true boaties who had such a passion for the NZ Marine industry. - Andrew George, Hutchwilco Very sorry to hear the sad news, Barry was a good man. - Gareth Hodson, ENL

A true legend in the industry and will be greatly missed. - Mandy, ENL I have just heard about Barry’s passing through the Riviera newsletter. I am deeply shocked by his untimely passing.

He had so much to live for to follow his passions, spend time with family and his huge network of friends.

- Rod Jenden, War Paint / Wet And Forget Barry has been a Stalwart of all forms of Powerboat racing and the Marine Industry and will be fondly remembered for being one of the Organisers of the Offshore 12 lunches at Swashbucklers Seafood restaurant - great times.

Soraja, Carl, Travis and Mitch - you have lost an incredible husband and father who gave you his all, supported you in everything you did. Barry, your final chequered flag has fallen but your memory will live on.

We will grieve for you , raise a glass and you will always have a place in both mine & Johns “Hall of memories and hearts”. Race on great friend. Bon Appetit.

- Derek the Chef/John Garrity

It is with deep sadness I learned this morning of the passing of Barry. Our deepest condolences to Soraja and his family.

- Blair McLay, FatCat Boats

RIP Barry.... one of the good guys gone too soon.

- Bob Carter

So sorry to hear this news.

- Erica Rae, Horizon Yachts Australia

I have always admired Barry and Doug for many reasons and what they had accomplished together.

- Murray, Yachting Developments

Barry’s unwavering support of boat shows was unlike any other in the industry. He often spoke of his love for boat shows and he always went out of his way to catch up with us during the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, a true testament to the incredible man he was. - Kara and the Mulpha Events team

I am so sorry to hear this very sad news. Devastating at his age and for his wider family. I liked Barry very much and we had a great working relationship over so many years. Very big shoes to fill on many fronts.

- Stephen Milne, Riviera Doug, utmost condolences mate, to have the friendship and working relationship you both had in what I can imagine is a very hard industry to survive and prosper in, is a huge testament to both of you - folks can go their whole lives and not have a bond like that. - Nic deMay, De May Yachts

Sorry to hear the devastating news. Our thoughts are with you.

- Greg Haines, Princess Yachts Australia

Barry was always so supportive - I have a lot of respect for the man! A very sad day indeed. - Leigh Q-Speed Marine POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 95

BARRY THOMPSON _ A TRIBUTE TO OUR POWERBOAT GURU

Barry was an icon of the NZ marine industry. His stories, accomplishments, and overall passion towards boating was absolute world class. We are so grateful to have known him and shared stories throughout our careers.

Barry was a great writer and reviewer and he’ll be sorely missed in the industry. Condolences from Maritimo.

- Simon Stewart

As a family we have been shocked with the news of Barry’s passing. We had an incredible amount of respect for Barry, particularly Lance, who this morning was very upset and reminiscing on four-decades of stories. With an extremely heavy heart, we send our condolences to you and your team.

Terrible news. - Nick Herd, Herley Boats Barry was such a great guy and so well respected by the whole marine industry, he will be sorely missed but fondly remembered.

- Dave & Mitch, Voodoo Yachts

- Nona Pedersen, YESSSS

Very sad news about Barry.

We are all very shocked and thinking about you and your team.

- Hillary Buckman, Ocean Media

I’m very sorry to hear that news.

Condolences to his family and colleagues.

- Duncan Cowie, Fleming Yachts

Barry and I had a few beers during his last trip over and we’ve done a good few boat tests together. I can’t believe it.

- Kevin Green, Yachting Journalist/editor

- Tristram & Team, Tristram Marine

We absolutely loved Barry to bits, we love both of you guys and our bond and friendship went well beyond business many years ago I believe.

- Geoff, CSB Hunstman Boats

Very Sad news, I really enjoyed his honest boat reviews. - Stephen Campbell, Composite Constructions

Barry was always available and a keen boating enthusiast - what a loss for the industry and all who cared for him. - Lachlan Trembath, OVLOV

Very sorry to hear that unexpected news. - Andy Stephens, Vetus Maxwell

Barry was always a pleasure and his dedication and commitment to his craft a credit to all who crossed his wake. Fair winds and following seas Barry. - Jed Elderkin, E-Yachts

We are deeply saddened by the loss of Barry. He will be missed by many.

- Tom Barry-Cotter, Maritimo Wow, that's a shock. Always enjoyed Barry’s company. - Steve McLay 96 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Barry is truly a loss to the yachting industry, the Horizon team enjoyed working with him.

- Lily Li, Horizon Yachts

He will be extremely missed—such an asset to the boating industry in NZ. - Jack Ludemann, Sports Marine

BARRY THOMPSON _ A TRIBUTE TO OUR POWERBOAT GURU

A sad day for all, our condolences to everyone. Such a respected voice in our Industry.

- Ric and Graeme, Seaforce Marine My thoughts are with you. I can remember at my first SCIBS 24 years ago when I first met Barry! Time flies, at least he had a great life.

- Mark Richards, Grand Banks

Great guy and heart of this industry.

- Tim, Hutchwilco

Barry was an absolute industry legend and he will be hugely missed by all of us. I always enjoyed catching up him at boat shows - let’s hope he’s found a beer and a great fishing spot on the other side.

- Caroline, NZ Marine Industry Association Barry will be sadly missed, he was a good mate to me and an excellent sounding board. I personally will miss our candid discussions and Barry’s advice on maritime matters outside the commercial world.

- Keith, Professional Skipper

Totally shocked. Deepest regards to his family. - Wayne Patten, Volpower NZ Sorry for your loss Doug, I know you guys spent many years as close work colleagues and friends.

- Ross & Max, FC Boats

On behalf of the BIA Ltd, for sincere condolences, regarding Barry’s passing.

Personally, we go back to early 2000’s, from the Sunrunner days. Barry was such a nice person, a leader in the journalism world.

- Andrew Scott, BIA Ltd

Just saw a post on the

Boating News site talking about Barry’s passing. So sorry, that must be a shock.

I know that both Mel and I were just talking with Barry last week. - Mike, Navico

We are very sad to hear the news about Barry, and our condolences to his family and to you and the rest of the team. - Dave, ZeroJet

We are so sad that Barry is gone, he has always been a part of our lives since we moved to NZ and got into the marine industry here.

- Jane & Andy, Dixon Manufacturing

I’ll have a rum or two for him on Saturday night. RIP Barry.

Condolences and sympathies to the

- Paul Powney, TAKACAT

I had immense respect for Barry, not only for his knowledge of powerboats, his balls in setting up various magazines and changing with the market, his survival of a major powerboat crash, but because he was a stand-out in terms of being a competitor in the market. He will leave a big gap in many lives. - Rebecca Hayter

Very sorry to hear, from those days water testing at journalist days at Telwater, to the banter at the recent Hutchwilco boat show, I had a lot of time for Barry. In all he was a good guy and will be sadly missed.

- Graham, Suzuki NZ

Stunned..! and so sad for you all!

- Phil Gilbert He was truly one of the good guys in our industry. I’ll miss his friendly grin.

- Kevin Dibley

family. It was shocking news and a real shake upand he will be greatly missed. Doug and Barry were tremendous supporters of our business efforts over the years and truly respected. - Don Salthouse

Barry was always a straight up & proficient reporter & very respected within the marine industry & he’ll be sadly missed.

- Bruce Scott, Whitehaven Motor Yachts

I am truly gutted...

- Danny Bassi, Tenob Barry was always a straight up & proficient reporter & very respected within the marine industry & he’ll be sadly missed.

- Bruce Scott, Whitehaven Motor Yachts

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 97

BARRY THOMPSON _ A TRIBUTE TO OUR POWERBOAT GURU

Very sorry to hear! Such a wonderful person to work with all these years.

- Jenny, Nordhavn Yachts

Damn shame to hear of Barry’s departure. Best wishes to his family both private and business.

- Rex and the White Pointer crew

Barry was a total legend of our industry. He was always very supportive of me being a kiwi in the Aussie boating industry - Always visiting my stand at shows and wrote lots of articles and boat tests over the years for Chapman Marine.

- Mark Chapman, Chapman Marine Group

Barry was held in such high regard right across the entire boating spectrum in NZ, Australia and wider afield. The world was a much better place when Barry Thompson was around and he will be sorely missed by all who knew, loved and respected him for the true gentleman he was.

- Chris Beattie, Marine Journalist, Publisher & Author Our thoughts are with you all and with Barry’s family. - Lina Leks, Propspeed

He was a good bugger and will be missed by many. - Tom Kane Barry was not only a great friend for the last 7-8 years to us but such a great help promoting the Grady-White Brand. He was one of the real good buggers in the NZ marine industry and a great pleasure to work with.

- Stuart & Rosie Arnold

It’s been such a pleasure to work with Barry over the last 10 years, boat shows won’t be the same. - Melissa Rewi I enjoyed working with Barry on stories, talking about the marine industry and new technology, definitely a huge loss.

- Duncan Stirling

Barry was a top man – he will be missed and remembered for his character, knowledge and friendship.

Just a note to say how sorry I was to hear about BT. BT wasn’t just a boss to me early on in my career, he was also a mentor - even continuing to help me with advice and guidance 22 years later, but most importantly, he was a friend. I’ll miss our lengthy chats about all things boating, motoring and life.

I remember my first day on the job with him, he took me along to observe doing a test on a Reflex Chianti – that’s the day I learnt what chine walk was!

“Barry, is that normal? Yeah mate, just finding where the limit is.”

From there we had loads of adventures mostly on boats and more than a few trips to Swashies.

I know these are just a few words, but he made a big impact on a lot of people. I will truly miss him.

- Freddy Foote, colleague and friend.

- Ian Coutts, Boat City

I can’t imagine how painful this must be, considering the relationship over so many years. We are sincerely so sorry for your loss. He will be missed by all of us! - Natalie King, Alexander Marine There will never be another Barry, his knowledge of powerboating in this country will never be replicated.

We were apparently competitors but I never ever felt like that once.

- Tim Porter, Boating NZ 98 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Barry was truly one of the ‘good buggers’.

- John Chambers

Life throws a curve ball every now and then and it’s hard to handle. He was a tremendous asset to the marine industry.

- Peter Jacobs, OVLOV

Thank you to all those people who showed kindness and support to the Thompson family. Whether it was an email, phone call, card, a louise slice or flowers, in our time of great sorrow, it was much appreciated.

From the Thompson family

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PRODUCT REVIEW _ SEAKEEPER RIDE

THE SEAKEEPER RIDE SYSTEM IF YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW BOATING, YOU’RE IN FOR ONE HELL OF A RIDE!

100 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Pacific Powerboat magazine shared news earlier this year of a game-changing new product, the Seakeeper Ride. Doug Dukeson experienced first-hand this innovative new system, on the water at the recent Sydney Boat Show. He reports back on this unique and first-of-its-kind trim system.

This is a system which includes Vessel Attitude Control, which is innovative because it not only controls the roll but also controls the pitch.

I

ntroduced in August 2022, Seakeeper Ride paved the way for the creation of a new underway stabilisation category, a Vessel Attitude Control System (VACS), derived from the Attitude Control Systems (ACS) used in air and space craft to control pitch, roll and yaw underway.

Seakeeper, a company that has long been renowned for its gyro stabilisers, introduced the Seakeeper Ride System, a system designed to smooth out the bumps, for boats of up to 10 metres. “There are several variants of transommounted systems that create lift to adjust running angle and heel, but there was nothing available that could truly eliminate pitch and

roll underway,” explains Seakeeper President and CEO Andrew Semprevivo. “There was also nothing available that was fully automated. You don’t continually adjust your suspension, antilock brakes, or traction control systems in your car, they just work. We felt your boat should be much the same. There was an opportunity, and that’s what we focused on when we kicked off the development.”

The Seakeeper Ride is innovative because it not only controls the roll but also controls the pitch, which provides a true running attitude and a much more stable and comfortable ride when at speed. It eliminates up to 70% of underway pitch and roll and is intuitive and automatic. Claims POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 101

PRODUCT REVIEW _ SEAKEEPER RIDE

When it comes to retrofitting to an existing boat, a compatibility check is necessary.

Your boat must: Have a fibreglass or aluminium hull

of pitch and roll elimination are nothing without the backing of real, measurable results, an extensive library of data/ performance reports can be found at www. ride.seakeeper.com/performance Additional benefits of the Ride system include auto trim (a customized Trim Command Curve that automatically adjusts the boat to match the optimal running angle), Hole Shot Control (allows for faster acceleration to get the boat on plane quickly and with more fuel efficiency), Coordinated Turn (adjusts the heeling angle in a turn), and List (heel) Control (compensation for movement on board, wind, uneven loads, or prop torque). With Seakeeper Ride, you aren’t getting a finger workout making constant adjustments to combat list or heel.

The Seakeeper Ride system predicts motion and stops it before it starts, automatically adjusting the heeling angle of your boat during turns.

Seakeeper Ride controllers are mounted to your boat’s transom, below the waterline.

Additional components are installed inside a console and are wired to the controllers.

Using custom, proprietary inertial sensing hardware and software, the system understands how the boat is behaving in all three axes and commands deployment of the rotary blades to counteract pitch, roll and yaw. As the blades are deployed, they create lift at the transom, managing the vessel’s motion instantaneously. Wave motions are often unpredictable and everchanging, occurring in just milliseconds. It took expert control software and hardware to compete. Seakeeper Ride’s sensors take 1,000 measurements per second, and its proprietary rotary blades make 100 adjustments per second to combat wave motions.

Currently, Seakeeper Ride is available in three sizes/options. There is the Seakeeper Ride 450 for boats up to 8 m, the Seakeeper Ride 525 for boats from 8 m to 9 m and the Seakeeper Ride 600 for boats from 9 m to 10.7 m. There is the option to either purchase a new boat with the system already installed or to retrofit to your existing boat.

102 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Have a stepped or nonstepped hull of from 5.8m to 10.7m Have a cruising speed greater than 20 mph Be equipped with a compatible MFD. An NMEA-compatible MFD with an ethernet port and a 12V DC power source with the capacity to deliver 10 amps, are required to operate the system.

There is constant work on research and development underway to equip more vessel types with Seakeeper Ride.

The components of the Seakeeper Ride include:Software Module – the “brain” of the system that includes Seakeeper Ride’s proprietary software and motion sensor.

Distribution Module – provides power and communication between the controllers and the software module.

User Interface – compatible with selected models from Garmin, Raymarine, Simrad, Navico, Lowrance, B&G and Furuno.

Keypad (optional) – physical, mountable keypad that can be used for manual adjustments outside the MFD application.

Seakeeper Ride’s maintenance needs are minimal. The actuators on each controller have zinc anodes that need to be periodically inspected (about every three months) and replaced when about half of an anode has worn down. As with most other boating accessories, a visual inspection and freshwater rinse is suggested after each use or each time the boat is removed from a saltwater environment. Mild marine soap is safe to use on the controllers to remove additional salt. Bottom paint is recommended for systems that will be submerged for more than two weeks at a time, and to remove marine growth, a

pressure wash at up to 140 MPa (≈ 2000 psi) is recommended, with a mild marine soap and a scrubbing brush.

The Seakeeper Ride retails from: RRP AUD $7899 inc GST for the 450, RRP AUD $13,199 inc GST for the 525 and RRP AUD $18,499 inc GST for the 600. Each comes with a 2-year warranty.

On the water: There’s always going to be some motion as a boat travels over water, so when we got out on the water onboard the incredibly deep-V Veitch 23 Centre Console (26 degrees deadrise), there was going to be no hiding whether the product worked or not. Boats with such a deep V are traditionally tender, but offer fantastic rough-water performance. A boat with a deep-V hull form cuts through waves more

easily and with much-reduced slamming than does one with a flatter bottom, but with the higher deadrise angle, deep-Vs often tend to roll from side-to-side more than flatter-bottomed boats. This is where the Seakeeper Ride system came into its own. We took the opportunity to switch back and forth between ‘Ride System on’ and ‘Ride system off’, and the difference on the ferry-packed Sydney ‘washing machine’ harbour was remarkable. The Seakeeper team had the Veitch 23 CC dialled into the optimum ride, and what a difference to have the boat remain almost level, from hole shot acceleration, getting us up on the plane and level control once underway!

In all sea conditions, quarter on, head on, in following seas and riding rolling ferry wakes, it certainly makes the skipper’s task of controlling the helm so much easier.

In deep-V boats like this, I have often witnessed the skipper tapping away on the trim tabs controls like people used to do when playing space invaders last century.

We moved about the boat on the plane, and with the system switched on, the boat remained stable, but with the system switched off the boat had a tendency to roll, as you would expect from 26-degree boat.

“Seakeeper Ride claims that its system ‘conquers the motion of the ocean’, and I would have to agree... your guests and knees will thank you” The system has transformed the boat, making it a great allrounder, offering the stability that is normally compromised in a great rough water, deep-V boat.

I can also see this system as being invaluable for some hard top models, that are prone to windage, with the system taking the lean out of the ride.

Seakeeper Ride claims that its system ‘conquers the motion of the ocean’, and I would have to agree that it dramatically reduces the lumps and bumps – something your guests and knees will thank you for!

RIDE.SEAKEEPER.COM

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 103

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ ILIAD 53S

EPIC

ADVENTURER While ILIAD Catamarans is a relatively young player in the powercat market (conceived in 2019), they have also been one of the fastest-growing brands in their sector. The ILIAD 53 is the newest addition to their expanding range.

WORDS BY BARRY THOMPSON

104 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

The 53 does not replace the 50 it is a new addition to the fleet.

T

he first thing that impresses me when I step aboard a powercat is the volume compared to a monohull. This starts with an expansive cockpit and outdoor spaces, to the saloon that utilises the extra wide beam that a powercat gives. The ILIAD 53S is no exception, and with a 7m beam, there is an outstanding interior living space, including a huge forward lounge, helm station and dining for 6-8 people. The cockpit is close to 4m long, and the saloon, including the helm and galley, is close to 30sqm overall. Space that is not achievable in a similar length monohull.

Powercats are one of the fastest-growing segments of the boating market, with ILIAD offering four models; 50, 53S & 53F and 62.

Plans for the hybrid ILIAD 53E and ILIAD 75 are well underway.

The ILIAD 53S features a sporty sedan silhouette, while the 53F is

the flybridge edition based on the same 16.35m hull.

ILIAD Catamarans arrived on the international stage in 2019 with the launch of its long-range cruising motor yachts ranging from 50 to 80 feet. Starting with the ILIAD 50, the range has continued to grow, and according to General Manager Michael Crook, they are not about to stop, with big plans for the future. The vision was to develop three models; 50, 60 and 70.

While there have been ten ILIAD 50s built, the company felt that after seven years, the natural evolution was to update the 50.

The result is the 53, available in both sedan and flybridge models.

The 53 does not replace the 50, it is a new addition to the fleet.

The 53 is a completely new tooling, not just a modified version of the 50. A main point of difference is the 53 is offered in two versions, sedan or flybridge, whereas the ILIAD 50 is only flybridge.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 105

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS ILIAD 53S

The virtually one-level saloon features a U-shaped port side galley with loungers fore and aft, plus twin helm seats.

106 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

The aft deck is all about entertaining.

Of the first six ILIAD 53s sold, three are flybridge and three sedan models, with the first 53F released at the Sydney International Boat Show in August. The USA will see its first 53 at the 2024 Miami Boat Show.

"We are not aiming to compete on a price point with production manufacturers, but like to think we more a bespoke builder, with semi customisation and our goal is around twelve 53s annually," says Crook.

The ILIAD 53 is essentially designed as a coastal, or offshore cruiser, and a 3500-litre fuel capacity means you can cruise long-range at low speeds. Top speed maybe 21 knots, but drop that back to around 17 knots @ 3000 rpm, and with a pair of 440hp Yanmar or Volvos, you have an impressive range of close to 500 nms. Bringing the speed back to a slow cruise speed of around 7.0 knots, total fuel burn is a miserly 1 lpnm and you can expect just over 2500 nm range with a good safety reserve. Now that's enough to run offshore across the Tasman from Auckland to Sydney or from Brisbane up to the Whitsundays and still have plenty left in the tanks. New Caledonia, Vanuatu or Fiji, they are all within reach without having to add any extra fuel.

Power is transmitted via a straight shaft with a deep keel to offer prop and rudder protection. Something that is a bonus when travelling around the coral-invested waters of the Pacific Islands.

The 53, like all ILIADs, is built using a vinyl esterbased infused system with foam core throughout.

Displacement of the 53S is around 25 tonnes, depending and how many more extras you add.

ILIAD Catamarans were designed by Italian naval

The ILIAD 53 is designed as a coastal, or offshore cruiser.

architect Riccardo Bulgarelli and built to CE (Category A) as standard. However, all models can be made to any specified international survey classification, including a five-year internationally supported structural warranty for commercial operation and maximum peace of mind.

While a pair of Yanmar and Volvo Penta 440s are standard, there is the option to upgrade to 480hp Volvo or Yanmar or 550hp Cummins QSB6.7 engines. You can expect around 23 knots with the bigger Cummins, which might be a good choice for the extra weight of the 53F, but I wonder if you need it.

I ran the ILIAD 53S on calm waters off Surfers Paradise, and it never put a hull wrong. The ideal speed was around 17-19 knots in the sea conditions. The symmetrical hulls quickly transition onto the plane with little bow-up attitude. It ran exactly where I steered it in the low long swells and was ultra-quiet. Naturally, being a catamaran, the stability at rest was rock steady, and the heel was minimal in sharp turns. A set of four small Hydrotab interceptors also help keep the boat level at all times. A single thruster in the port bow gives you that extra control coming into a berth or fuel dock.

MORE BLING

The new 53 also has a touch more 'bling' inside than the 50 and is pitched towards potential buyers that are monohull sedan owners who appreciate a more modern trendy interior finish.

The virtually one-level saloon featured a U-shaped port side galley with loungers fore and aft, plus a twin seat helm. Surrounded by plenty of glass, the views are exceptional despite the heavy mullions.

I liked the driving position and that those seated in the forward lounge could be involved in the driving experience. The L shape lounger is at a perfect height to give you the ultimate visibility of what's happening outside. A coffee table also hides away a couple of

poufs for extra seating. There is also a twin starboard side lounger aft of the helm, giving you a huge forward area for entertaining or relaxing with friends or family.

While there are options, the first 53S has a folding dining table around the starboard aft L shape lounge, which works perfectly. It's opposite the large galley and a natural flow through to the upper deck area exists. It opens it all as one area and takes advantage of the extra beam a powercat affords.

The U shape galley has fore and aft servery areas, a large pantry, a full-size refrigerator and freezer, and well-designed storage. One area that the ILIAD 53 excels in is storage. With long-range cruising in mind, when having areas to stow gear is so important, the 53S uses every available space.

The owner chose Caesarstone for the benchtops, adding a classy touch to the interior finish. The galley opens to the cockpit, where you'll find an aft bench seat, a bar area and dining seating for up to ten guests, barbeque, an ice maker and a fridge/refrigerator.

Your outdoor spaces are not just confined to the raised cockpit, as you also have a foredeck lounging space, and then there is an optional high/low boarding platform (450 kg capacity) to be used when the tender is deployed. A 3.8 centre console tender with a 30hp outboard was destined for this particular boat.

While most of the 53S and 53F saloon layouts are common to both, the lower helm is optional on the 53F flybridge version, with the space transformed into more seating. Standard helm seating on the 53S is a less intrusive bench seat, with the option of a couple of high back sport seats or a single helm seat.

While Raymarine is the electronics brand of choice, you have the option also of Garmin. Both brands are interlinked with the Yanmar or Volvo Penta engine management systems. Displays are a pair of 16" screens.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 107

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ ILIAD 53S

1

2

1. Being a semi-custom build, you can choose various accommodation plans with 3 or 4 cabin options.

2. The port side guest VIP also has a second single berth option.

3. The owner’s suite takes up most of the entire starboard side hull.

4. Wide stairways lead either side to the cabins.

CABIN CHOICES

3

The elevated lounge in the saloon offers panoramic views, and note the beautifully shaped dining table and surrounding wood finish.

4 108 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Being a semi-custom build, you can choose various accommodation plans with 3 or 4 cabin options.

Custom interior option choices mean the client can have exactly the look and feel they prefer. The owner of this 53S chose the three-cabin layout with the entire starboard hull devoted to the owners. This includes an oversized transverse island queen bed, panoramic windows, an expansive ensuite, and a two-seat lounger with plenty of storage and open spaces. One word describes the owner's stateroom. Spacious.

The port hull is split between two cabins, with the forward equipped with a double and upper single berth and the aft cabin a pair of singles or a double. Each has an ensuite, plenty of storage and a hanging locker.

If you want to run a captain or crew, there is the option of a single cabin in the forepeak. Not something anyone would include in a boat being used around NZ or Aus, but it is not uncommon in some areas of South East Asia.

Crook says that with seven sold even before the first boat was launched, they are confident that the 53S and the 53F will become one of the most popular models in their ever-expanding range.

"The real point of difference is the fact that the level of finish is exceptionally high compared to many in the powercat market, and we have the performance and price point to match, all of which I feel will attract those traditional monohull owners", says Crook.

I agree. On all three points, he is bang on.

2310-333

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ ILIAD 53S

“...the level of finish is exceptionally high compared to many in the powercat market...”

SPECIFICATIONS

“...and we have the performance and price point to match.”

There is easy access both sides to the cockpit, with a high/low platform between.

Your outdoor spaces are not just confined to the raised cockpit, as you also have a foredeck lounge.

Boat Design Name ILIAD 53S Year Launched 2023 Price As Tested $AUS3.4m Style Sedan Builder ILIAD Catamarans Designer Riccardo Bulgarelli LOA 16.35m Beam 7.60m Draft 1.25m Displacement (Light) 24000 kg Max Speed 21 Knots Construction GRP Composite Fuel Cap 3500 litres Water Cap 1800 litres Engines Make 2 x Yanmar 440 Drive Train Shaft Generators Onan 13.5kW Watermaker Parker Air Con Climma Inverter/Charger Victron Multiplus 24 Bow Thruster Side Power Interceptors Hydrotab Watermaker Sea Recovery Lighting Hella MFD 2 x Raymarine Axiom Pro XL 16” VHF Raymarine Winch Quick 2000W External Flooring Flexiteak Ent System Fusion Running Gear Coating Propspeed Classification CE & ABYC

ILIADCATAMARANS.COM

PERFORMANCE DATA RPM 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3250 3450

Knots 7.0 9.0 11.0 14.0 17.0 19.0 21.0

L/h 7 21 50 75 110 130 180

Range is based on 90% of available fuel

110 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Range (NM) 1.0 2.3 4.5 5.4 6.5 6.8 8.6

2500 1383 693 588 487 460 368

Time to go electric.

ULTRALIGHT

TRAVEL

CRUISE

485-550 HP

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 111

NOTEWORTHY _ FLETCH'S BOAT TIPS

FLETCH'S TIPS In loving memory of Barry Thompson There were moments when I dedicated weekends

in memory of our dearly departed editor at large,

and evenings to teaching him the art of data backup

Barry Thompson. Barry was not just a colleague but

and file retrieval, and over the years, he transformed

also a mentor and a cherished friend to both me and

into quite the tech-savvy enthusiast. I can’t help but

my family. His unwavering support was pivotal in

smile when I recall the time Barry proudly set up a

motivating me to embark on the journey of writing

Google Drive to store all his files in the cloud, only to

Fletch’s Boat Tips for his magazine. He provided

call me the next week in frustration, unable to recall

invaluable feedback and infused a dose of humour

his Google passwords and labelling it as a “stupid

into our interactions, which contributed significantly

Google issue”. Barry’s absence leaves a void in our lives

to honing my journalism and writing skills. I will

that cannot be filled. We will dearly miss his humour,

fondly remember Barry’s late-night phone calls,

his captivating boating stories, his sharp wit, his

often punctuated by tales of keyboard mishaps or a

unwavering encouragement, his zest for life, and most

mysteriously blank screen, usually right on deadline

importantly, his friendship.

(Note: Double-check the power cord, Barry!).

Fletch and the Team

Trusted brands expert advice

112 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Available from leading boating stores

DB966

With heavy hearts, we share this month’s boating tips

TIP #132

THE IMPORTANCE OF ESSENTIAL SPARES Prepare an essential spare box stocked with items like bungs, fuel filler caps, shackles, and more, and ensure it’s easily accessible onboard. Unexpected accidents, like losing a fuel cap overboard or damaging a shackle, can happen anytime. By having these spare parts on hand, you’ll not only save the day but also earn the appreciation of friends who might find themselves in a similar predicament at the boat ramp.

Pro Tip: Store your spare parts in a sealed, clear plastic container to prevent moisture damage.

TIP #133

QUIETER ENGINE INTAKE Enhance your inboard engine's performance and comfort by considering an aftermarket intake resonator. While the exhilarating ‘whoosh-phiss’ sound from turbo diesels might appeal to some, it can become wearisome during long voyages across the expansive Hauraki Gulf.

Installing an aftermarket air intake pod into your engine’s air intake system can make a substantial difference. It significantly reduces the induction roar and eliminates the persistent turbo blow-off sound. You can find these components at most performance car outlets or conveniently order them online along with high-quality silicon hoses.

This upgrade is well worth the investment.

TIP #134

TIP #135

ESSENTIAL MARINE EQUIPMENT: TOILET PLUNGER

PREPARING FOR SUMMER: SUNSCREEN AND BUG SPRAY

One indispensable piece of marine equipment to have at your disposal this summer is the reliable toilet plunger.

Whether it’s kids or adults using the onboard facilities, unexpected blockages can occur. When such moments arise, nothing comes to the rescue quite like this humble tool.

You can acquire one for as little as $8 from your local hardware store. Ensure you know its exact location on your vessel for those unforeseen blockages and spillages.

With summer just around the corner, it's essential to get your boat ready for the season.

One of the first items I prioritize is replacing all the old sunscreen bottles on my boat.

Sunscreen products have expiration dates, and as they age, some can even cause skin irritations. It’s good practice to take stock of your sunscreen needs and ensure you have essentials like SPF50, zincbased options, and bug spray on hand.

Pro Tip: Keep a spare set of rubber gloves on hand, just in case you find yourself in a peculiar ‘Kraken-capturing’ situation within the confines of the toilet bowl.

WISHING YOU SAFE AND ENJOYABLE BOATING ADVENTURES THIS SUMMER!

www.batterytownmarine.co.nz

0800 962 288

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 113

ELECTRONICS HUB _ THE KIWI WAY

THE NZ MARINE ELECTRONIC HUB

THE

When it comes to marine electrical and electronic systems, we think of internationally recognised brands from overseas, but did you know that New Zealand punches above its weight when it comes to the design, manufacture and distribution of electrical engineering and electronic products.

T

here are brands that you see on boats that you would probably assume are the product of some overseasbased conglomerate, but you may be very wrong.

In fact, some of our most common brands are homegrown, and had it not been for a Kiwi's foresight and forward-thinking, they may never have happened.

When it comes to dedicated marine electrical systems, they have been around for more than 100 years. The Titanic used radio waves to detect the underwater extent of icebergs, albeit not very successfully. From there, it was a small step to using the same technology to locate ships. Sonar, which uses sound waves rather than radio waves, can detect underwater objects other than icebergs and surface ships. It can be aimed straight down to measure depth and coincidentally "see" fish. Welcome the fishfinder and the MFD, a tool we use on everything from 4m tinnies to ocean liners.

In 1935 we got radar, thanks to a Scottish physicist, and after WW2, when life started to get back to normal and leisure boating started to take off, marine electronics took on a whole new focus. It wasn't just about military and commercial use, it was developing something that would suit the recreational boatie.

With the help of the space program and Silicon Valley, paper charts, astrolabes, sounding lines, and sextants have largely been traded for GPS, computer-integrated chartplotters, AIS, satellite television and autopilots. Distress beacons that can be picked up and transmitted by satellites in orbit can bring help more quickly and accurately than earlier methods.

Plus, what we put in our boats these days has changed. When once, at best, it was a big bracket-mounted paper sounder, a distress radio, plus a transistor, today you have a lot more, and they are more compact. MFD (Multi-Function Displays) cover most of it by incorporating everything you need, such as radar, sonar, AIS and charting.

The options are many, no matter what area of electronics you are looking for in your boat, and over recent years, it has grown incredibly. Looking for a VHF, radar or maybe an MFD, you are spoiled for choice, and often, the decision will be made on price, size and what your mates are using on their boat.

New Zealand has always had access to international brands, but for some Kiwi electrical engineers, that wasn't enough.

Like the mousetrap, someone always has an idea for a better one.

We look at some of those innovative New Zealand companies that went down their own path and not only took on the big guns but, in some cases, became them. Others saw their product gain such success that they were purchased by established international companies, accelerating their exposure on the world stage.

BEP – BATTERY MANAGEMENT BEP produces digital switching, battery management, and circuit electrical solutions for the harsh marine and RV environments. The company was started in 1995 by Bruce Edward Pratt.

BEP’s product line has expanded to include a broad range of circuit protection, batteries and battery management, power distribution panels, monitors, and digital switching technology. The engineers and product managers at BEP continue to develop the next generation of power management products.

The company's products are designed to easily integrate into simple or comprehensive electrical systems. The two most recognised is the PRO INSTALLER Range which incorporates individual battery management switches, multi-switch panels and remote-operated VSR, and the Smart Battery Hub, an all-in-one battery management system with remotely activated switches.

The company also offers power distribution panels, monitoring systems, circuit protection, connectors and insulators.

CONNEXWIRE – HARNESSING WIRE

Connexwire Limited started out as a niche manufacturer, designing panels and looms to suit the individual requirements of its customers. Originally named Aquatech Marine Limited, the company was re-branded to Connexwire Limited in 2011 to reflect the diversification to providing harnesses, looms and switch panels to the marine, automotive and OEM industries in New Zealand.

Continuing to innovate is Connexwire's focus and they have developed further generations of switch panels.

Because they recognise that space is increasingly at a premium due to larger screens on electronics, they now offer fused, backlit panels which take up less of the valuable dash real-estate than other major brands.

Connexwire continues to grow and has expanded into Australia, and will continue to look for key opportunities globally while developing and maintaining their core business in New Zealand and Australia. Connexwire will be amongst close to 30 New Zealand companies attending METS 2023.

Connex has an extensive range of switch panels, toggle switches, rocker switches and battery switches. The own unique 6 and 4 way fused, back-lit switch panels with fuse blown indicator are proudly designed and manufactured in New Zealand. They are able to fully customise the switch configurations to your needs including adding service-inoperation indicators.

ELECTRONICS HUB _ THE KIWI WAY

CZONE- DIGITAL MONITORING Engineered in New Zealand, CZone and BEP were sold to Brunswick in 2017 they are now under the newly formed Navico Group along with other leading marine electronic brands, B&G, C-Map, Lowrance, Simrad, Mastervolt, ReLion plus many more trusted brands.

The CZone digital control and monitoring network simplifies the installation of electrical systems by replacing complicated, cumbersome wiring to switch and fuse panels with robust interfaces via the NMEA 2000 network.

It also provides a sophisticated solution by automating control and monitoring issues associated with today's onboard systems. Installers recognise an immediate benefit with reduced cable usage, harness weights and installation times.

The CZone system also integrates many standalone components into one intuitive system via dedicated CZone screens or touchpads or via the NMEA network on your Simrad, Lowrance and other MFD integrations.

The CZone system decentralises the AC and DC power distribution

system. It locates circuit control and protection modules closer to loads to shorten cable runs and reduce the size of conductors, significantly decreasing the cost and weight of the electrical wiring harness. The system replaces complex wiring with a single data wire.

"Sailing Beyond Boundaries: Your Ultimate Partner for marine electronic Equipment and Servicing Solutions"

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116 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

(P): +64 9 3735595 (E): ENQUIRIES@ENL.CO.NZ

FUSION – MARINE AUDIO

CRUZ PRO – INTELLIGENT INSTRUMENTS

CruzPro manufactures a broad range of intelligent and accurate instruments in seven categories; Accessories, AC & DC Electrical Monitoring, Depth and Speed Instruments, Digital Engine Gauges, Fuel & Tankage Monitoring, Gas Detectors and Multi-Function Instruments. Many of these products are available with either round or rectangular bezels.

Most CruzPro instruments work on both 12V and 24V systems and contain built-in user settable high and low alarms. The fuel, tankage and engine gauges have built-in calibration curves for all popular senders, both American and European resistance ranges, or ‘learn’ the sender characteristics and tank shape. Most CruzPro instruments output NMEA 0183 serial data for data logging or use with remote data repeaters, or this output line can be programmed as an external alarm output. They have a common user interface, intelligently thought out, that makes each new instrument easy to learn and use.

To ensure a reliable long life in the harsh marine environment the products are constructed using UV stable AES plastic, stainless steel hardware, solvent resistant silicone rubber gaskets and O-rings, Lexan brand polycarbonate and 3M adhesives.

Most CruzPro gauges are CE certified and RoHS compliant (environmentally friendly and lead free). All products enjoy a full twelve (12) month parts and workmanship warranty. Cruzpro ships worldwide to areas not served by local dealers and offers branded products for OEMs such as Si-Tex, Newmar, Radarsonics, eMarine, Innovative Marine Safety and Kussmau.

Fusion Entertainment is a company that started in 1998 with an initial focus on car audio and has grown to be the world leader in marine entertainment. Designed in New Zealand, Fusion Entertainment is now primarily focused on developing products for the Marine and RV market segments. Based in Auckland, and a Garmin brand since 2014, Fusion is founded on trademark “Kiwi” determination, ingenuity, and passion for life on the water.

While enjoying a substantial market share in their home market, New Zealand, Fusion sells into both the OEM and retail sectors internationally, providing their entertainment systems to numerous boat builders and retail outlets around the world.

Fusion has always been at the forefront of technological change, highlighted by the integration of all the key electronics brands with “Fusion Link”, and that’s something that is a fundamental aspect of the company. Fusion’s world firsts included iPod Inside, Fusion Link and Fusion Link App. All their products are designed from the ground up for the harsh marine environment and not adapted from an automotive platform that is reverse engineered.

Their determination to continually innovate has brought the integration of touchscreens to marine stereos, along with Wi-Fi audio streaming, Apple AirPlay 2, PartyBusTM-Network, and advanced Digital Signal Processing. With the launch of the award-winning ApolloTM Series and its many industry and world-first features and innovations, Fusion set a new bench-mark for marine audio entertainment.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 117

ELECTRONICS HUB _ THE KIWI WAY

MCKAY - ALARM AND MONITORING

McKay has a long and proud history that began in Northland in 1936. Since then they have achieved some huge milestones and have consistently strengthened their position as one of New Zealand’s largest and most successful privately owned electrical contracting businesses. They have developed a number of products for the marine industry.

IMACS is a McKay built Alarm and Monitoring System based on an open scalable platform that can be integrated with a wide range of third party systems (engine monitoring / fire alarm system etc) by means of open communication protocols.

The McKay developed EVCAM interface allows the complete control of electric vessel control and power management, enabling continuous monitoring and reliable operation on new technology platforms. The application is designed specifically for electric propulsion systems and communicates on industry protocols to enhance user efficiency and more so digital real time connectivity for operators and service providers.

Sidewinder is a proven and innovative app developed by the McKay Software team to streamline complex cable installation and management. This web based tool provides real time reporting, complete visibility and the tools required to deliver capability projects on time and with a heavily reduced amount of common rework.

“All their antennas and accessories are designed, engineered, manufactured and individually tuned and tested in Auckland”

PACIFIC AERIALSMARINE AERIALS Pacific Aerials Ltd is an Auckland based antenna manufacturer with global markets.

Established in 1977 to manufacture antennas and accessories for the growing land mobile radio industry, the family owners, who still work in the business, quickly recognised that the company could not develop into the worldclass manufacturer they wanted it to be by supplying only the New Zealand market.

An early and successful marine product launch into the larger Australian marine market was

118 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

quickly followed by entry to the competitive UK market and progressive and continuing extensions into Europe, the United States, South Africa, South East Asia and China.

All their antennas and accessories are designed, engineered, manufactured and individually tuned and tested in Auckland. They offer a range of VHF,AIS, Cellular, AM/FM and HF/ SSB aerials, as well as marine terrestrial TV antennas. Pacific Aerials Ltd has been ISO9001 accredited since 1994.

2500 ULTRACAB XL The 2500 Ultracab XL is the perfect choice for long adventures. The extended cabin area of the XL provides more people with more space and extensive storage for overnight stays and diverse explorations. The 2500 Ultracab XL was designed to handle all conditions you may encounter, from holiday cruising, family fishing trips to serious off-shore fishing. Adventuring with confidence is an understatement when it comes to the 2500 Ultracab XL.

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671 Whangaparaoa Road, Whangaparaoa, North Auckland, New Zealand Phone: 09 424 5556 | Fax: 09 424 1948 | Email: craig@gulflandmarine.co.nz

www.gulflandmarine.co.nz

ELECTRONICS HUB _ THE KIWI WAY

VESPER - AIS TRANSPONDERS

Vesper Marine was founded in 2007 by Deirdre Schleigh and Jeff Robbins, who had just completed seven years of ocean cruising onboard their yacht Vesper - an experience they say underlined the importance of collision avoidance every day. The couple were joined by electronics designer and fellow sailing buff Omundsen.

They set out to make use of the recently developed international marine communication standard, AIS, to improve marine safety. After launching a series of innovative and award winning products for boats, the company developed their first AIS Shore Station that enabled the creation of virtual bouys (VAtoNs). This was recognised by Professional Mariner in 2012 with the Plimsoll Award for innovation in marine safety.

In 2022 the company was purchased by NYSE-listed Garmin who continued to commit to rigorous research and development and innovation. The company continues to design for performance, reliability and ease of use, backed by outstanding customer support. Vesper

Marine is distributed in 42 countries and is recognised as a global innovation leader in AIS and VHF electronic equipment for commercial and recreational customers.

Vesper Marine AIS transponders are easy to use and consume much less power than other products yet are one of the most advanced collision avoidance systems available. Options include two unique dedicated stand-alone AIS units or two models of innovative AIS transponders to integrate with your existing equipment.

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WASSP - MULTIBEAM SOUNDER From small beginnings to an international market leader, ENL Group has taken their WASSP Multibeam Sounder to the world.

WASSP is manufactured in New Zealand under ISO9001/2000 certification, WASSP Systems are specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of its clients. It is WASSP’s 360-degree approach from research and development through to design, build, and installation that delivers a range of products that provide its clients with unique and innovative technology solutions.

Initially developed as a system for the commercial fishing industry, WASSP Multibeam technology has evolved and is now equally at home on the bridge of a pleasure craft just as it is on a commercial workboat.

Since its launch, WASSP has seen incredible growth in all areas. WASSP is now distributed in more than 35 countries and has been embraced by the commercial fishing, recreational fishing, super yacht, hydrographic,

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professional workboat, dredging & construction, navy, coastguard and now leisure with the sport fishing market.

A true game changer WASSP's presence in the leisure market has grown massively, with its systems now installed onto superyachts from some of the world's leading builders.

Installed in the tender or support vessel of a superyacht, the W3 system uses a wireless link to send a real-time sea floor map back to the super yachts bridge system and display it in realtime with unparalleled precision. Its profiling is 100x faster than a single beam echo sounder.

With 224 beams, users can understand the underwater environment to locate fish faster over a much wider area than traditional single-beam systems.

Perhaps most importantly, be able to see the seafloor structure and detect hardness changes, giving an increased understanding of the underwater environment, whether it be for fishing / surveying or aquaculture purposes.

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ELECTRONICS HUB _ THE KIWI WAY

JUICE – LI-ION BATTERIES

HELLA – LED LIGHTING

Hella marine products are manufactured by Hella New Zealand limited. A company celebrating 50yrs of local manufacturing in 2023.

Hella New Zealand is spread across two sites. A dedicated manufacturing facility, including on site injection moulding in Auckland is backed up by a purpose built electronics plant in Waihi. The Auckland location also houses sales, marketing and the R&D hub where all the products a designed inhouse.

Hella’s Marketing Manager, Ramon Surrey, says that with three decades of LED expertise, ongoing R&D, innovative design using high-quality materials, Hella Marine continues to set benchmarks across all product areas. The most recent of which, is the award winning APELO underwater lights, a 100% homegrown kiwi success story.

Today Hella Marine is a globally recognised and trusted brand with LED navigation and high-performance lighting systems in over 60 countries. The main markets are Europe, the USA and Asia Pacific Region, with established distributors within the Hella network and independent marine specialist distributors.

Hella Marine offers complete marine LED lighting solutions, all completely sealed and supported with a 5-year warranty.

NAVICO GROUP

Navico has a long history in New Zealand, with a substantial R&D facility in Auckland encompassing mechanical engineering, Software and UI/UX. Navico historically comprised of four consumer brands including Lowrance, Simrad Yachting, B&G and CMAP. However, in 2021 Navico was acquired by Brunswick, and in 2022 Navico Group was formed representing the integration of ASG, Navico and Relion.

Navico Group is now comprised of the world’s leading brands in marine electronics, power management, networked devices, and digital control & monitoring, trusted globally by the industry’s leading builders of boats, RVs, and specialty vehicles, as well as the world’s largest retailers and distributors.

122 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Juice Lithium Ion batteries are designed and manufactured by Enertec Marine Ltd. Established in Auckland, New Zealand, in 1987, Enertec has long relationships with some of the world’s bestknown marine electrical power product brands.

With over ten years of experience with Lithium Ion batteries in both marine and land-based applications, the team at Enertec, in typical Kiwi fashion, saw the opportunity to develop a new generation of Lithium Ion batteries specifically for the marine industry which would resolve some of the installation issues with current product offerings.

To achieve this, Enertec Marine teamed up with the Electrical Engineering Department at Auckland University to help develop a cutting-edge Lithium Ion battery management system and cell balancing system to allow superior performance and longevity.

Furthermore, the design offers some unique features which provide simplicity of operation for the end user and integration, if required, with 3rd party equipment such as digital switching systems.

Continuing in the pursuit of developing unique marine products, Enertec have also recently released the marine industries first permanent magnet alternator (PMA). This revolutionary new product offers far higher efficiency than traditional alternators. It develops less heat, produces higher output using a fraction of the engine power, and has a superior power curve. Enertec are very excited at the level of interest already in this product and the many possibilities for it.

While Enertec markets and distributes Juice in NZ, they are keen to work with like-minded international companies interested in distributing their product.

YOUR WINDOW TO ADVENTURE.

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simrad-yachting.com/nsx Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off, and ™ common law marks. Visit www.navico.com/intellectual-property to review the global trademark rights and accreditations for Navico Group and other entities.

®

COASTGUARD EDUCATION _ NAVIGATING THE WATERS OF NZ

NAVIGATING THE WATERS OF NZ A GUIDE TO THE !

D A O R E H T F O S E L U R New Zealand's waters are some of the most beautiful and varied in the world, and the Hauraki Gulf is often called a playground for boaties due to the sheer number of islands you can visit. As a boat owner or skipper, it's essential to understand the rules of the road to ensure safety for yourself and others. In this article, we'll cover the give-way rules on the water, speed restrictions in harbours and by beaches, navigational marks, and the general boating code to keep you safe this summer.

With the Summer season almost upon us, we thought it was an opportune time to revisit the rules of the water - as a reminder to experienced boaties and a guide for new boaties. Take care out on the water this busy season!

124 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

GIVE-WAY RULES When navigating any water it's crucial to understand the give-way rules. These rules are put in place to keep all boaties safe and just like in a car we have rules of the road to follow, it is the same as on the water in a vessel.

When two boats are approaching each other, one has the right of way. The other boat must give way and pass astern (behind). To determine who has right of way, consider the vessel type:

1

IF POWER MEETS POWER Powerboats must give-way to those on the starboard (right) side When meeting head on, powerboats must turn starboard

3

2

IF POWER MEETS SAIL, PADDLE OR ROWING CRAFT With exception to specific displays, powerboats must give way unless the craft is overtaking.

4

IF SAIL MEETS SAIL

GIVE WAY WHEN OVERTAKING

A sailing boat must give way to another sailing boat if the wind is blowing from its port (left) side or if it is windward (upwind) to the other sailing boat.

If you approach another vessel in a 135° sector at its stern, you are considered to be overtaking and must give way.

Make early and obvious manoeuvres so there is no confusion. If the give way boat fails to give way, you must make every effort to avoid a collision. Be prepared to make substantial alterations to your direction and to slow right down or stop.

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COASTGUARD EDUCATION _ NAVIGATING THE WATERS OF NZ

SPEED RESTRICTIONS Speed restrictions are in place in harbours and by beaches to ensure safety for swimmers, kayakers, and other watercraft. In general, a speed limit of five knots applies: • • • • • •

within 200m of the shore within 200m of any structure within 200m of a boat displaying a diver’s flag within 50m of any other boat within 50m of a person swimming on a power boat if any person has any part of their body outside the rails or edge of the deck.

In designated water-ski areas, the speed limit is raised to 10 knots.

Harbours usually have their own speed limits, which vary depending on the specific harbour. It's essential to know the speed limits in the area where you'll be boating to avoid fines and ensure everyone's safety.

You must be over 15 years old to operate any water craft capable of exceeding 10 knots, unless there is close supervision by an older person who is constantly within reach of the controls.

Always check the effect of your wake. You must not create a wake that causes unnecessary danger to other boats or people.

126 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

BEACONS & BUOYS Navigation beacons and buoys are essential for safe boating, and understanding their meaning is crucial. A good basic rule to remember is that lights on boats are fixed; lights on beacons flash.

Red beacons mark port (left-hand side) channels when returning from the sea or a river, while green beacons mark starboard (right-hand) channels.

There are many navigation marks and buoys on the water and these are used for marking hazards, indicating the safe limits of channels, and showing the way through channels. They come in many shapes and colours, and each type has a different meaning. Take the time to familiarise yourself with the different beacons and buoys to ensure safe navigation. The ones that many people get confused with are the directional cardinal marks which indicate the deepest water in the area which lies to the named side of the Mark. This convention is necessary even though, for example, a North Mark may have navigable water not only to the north but also east and west of it.

The mariner will be safe to the north, but must consult the relevant chart for further guidance.

GENERAL BOATING CODE New Zealand's maritime rules and regulations are intended to promote safety and protect the marine environment. The general boating code outlines best practices for boaters to follow to ensure safety and minimise their impact on the environment. Some of the key guidelines include wearing life jackets, checking for weather conditions before heading out, carrying the required safety equipment, avoiding alcohol, and respecting the marine environment by disposing of waste properly. It's important to follow these guidelines and be a responsible boater.

For more information download the boating guide at: MARITIMENZ.GOVT.NZ/RECREATIONAL/SAFETY

The waters of New Zealand offer endless opportunities for boating enthusiasts. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it's essential to understand the give-way rules, speed restrictions, beacons and buoys, and the general boating code. Following these rules and guidelines will help promote safety, protect the environment, and make your boating experience unforgettable. If you are unsure of the rules of the road or need a refresh on navigation and safety equipment then why not consider taking a boating course from Coastguard Boating Education. They run various courses from the most popular Day Skipper course to a VHF course, boat maintenance and even a Boatmaster.

Why not visit their website at: BOATINGEDUCATION.ORG.NZ/COURSES

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visit www.hutchwilco.com for your local stockist POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 127

KINGF I KINGFISH _ WITH MATHEW HEWETSON

SUMMER TARGET Kingfish are Godzone’s top pelagic species that will test an angler’s ability, strength and gear, editor Matt Hewetson looks at three ways to target them over summer.

BY MATHEW HEWETSON - FISHING GODZONE EDITOR

128 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

ISH Gloves for leadering stroppy kings at the boat is a good idea, note the circle hook doing its job in the corner of the mouth.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 129

KINGFISH _ WITH MATHEW HEWETSON

K

ingfish are always a challenge, no matter if you have caught one or 100. They are the fish that most Kiwi anglers want to tangle with to test themselves and when you successfully land one, that cold beer at the end of the day tastes that little bit better.

On my travels around Godzone, I get to talk and fish with many people, and it often surprises me how many people say they are yet to land a good kingfish. They have usually scored a few rats and hooked bigger ones but got owned with the kingie earning its freedom. This is where you really need a plan to stick with before heading out in the boat, it is not like snapper fishing where a trusty old 10kg bait runner combo can land big snapper and you fill the bin easily.

Kingfish are tough customers and deserve respect or you will find yourself facing a good beating.

PREP FIRST

Doing your homework and prepping with your tackle before you get out on the water will increase your chances of successfully catching a kingie and you need to look at your options on where you intend to go to find them. They are a successful species that can exploit shallow water harbours and coastal areas, and out in deep water over reefs way offshore. Fortunately, in summertime kings gather in large numbers across most of the country and if you spend the time looking for them, your paths shall cross sooner or later.

I like to employ three key methods targeting kings and will run through these tactics for you to adopt in pursuit of landing a yellowtail kingfish.

LIVE BAITS

Without a doubt the best way to tangle with a kingfish is to deploy a live bait. The NZ and World Record 52kg kingfish taken on 15kg line was caught on a live kahawai off Tauranga. If you head out and come across a school of kahawai or trevally on the surface, there is a good chance a kingie or several are below them.

Use a lure or small bait with hook to catch a kahawai or trevally, even try foul hooking one with a treble hook will do and send the live bait down on a 24kg ledger rig under the school of baitfish. A second livie can be used under a balloon on the surface.

Keep the live bait(s) close to the baitfish, watch the surface activity and below on the sounder. Move the boat slowly when needed to keep closer to the schooling fish.

Overhead lever drag reels are best as you want the live bait in free spool with the clicker on for that strike. Make sure you also use a circle or recurve hook too, these are the best for hooking in the mouth if you want to release the fish unharmed after a few quick photos.

I would recommend going on a specialist kingfish charter like Epic Adventures who put people onto kingfish off the Coromandel every week. They often spend up to two hours in the morning filling the live bait tanks with mackerel before heading out, caught with sabikis and small baits at change of light is the best. You will learn a lot from such a trip to grow your fishing experience.

My favourite live baits in this order are mackerel, grey mullet (west coast), kahawai and trevally. These are the hardiest live baits

and high on a kingfish’s menu, whereas squid, piper and yellow eyed mullet are also dynamite if you find them but are harder to keep alive over long periods.

Spend the time gathering live baits and find the places kingfish inhabit and don’t give up if nothing happens for a while. Don’t get impatient and head off snapper fishing, stay the course and try berley to bring baitfish and kings into the area.

JIGGING

Lures work well on kingfish and some of my best kingfish action has been when fishing by mechanical jigging over reefs in Northland and the Bay of Plenty. You need a quality jigging combo, look for a rod rated for 200-350gm jigs with matching narrow-spooled reel with a fast retrieve, at least 10kg of drag and spooled with 50-80lb braid (PE3-5).

Having multicoloured line is also key as the colour changes every 10m and you can determine how many colours to drop the jig down when in deeper water. E.g., If you are fishing over a reef that is 90m down and the bait school and kingfish sign is sitting at 60m, then you drop down six colours to start your jig action back up.

Sunline’s Siglon PEx8 Multicoloured braid is excellent value for money, with high strength and abrasion resistance. Its low diameter also helps provide a better knot.

It is now the braid I use on all my jigging and lure fishing sets.

“Spend the time gathering your live baits and find the places kingfish inhabit and don’t give up if nothing happens for a while...”

Fighting a good fish aboard Epic charters, the writer switches between live baits and jigs throughout the day.

130 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Slow trolling live baits around headlands, reefs or rocky outcrops is a top way to target kingfish. This fish took a mackerel slow trolled at Little Barrier for the writer.

A full tank of mackerel live baits is a sure winner to get a kingie on the boat’s deck.

The sounder shows dense red sign of baitfish with predators over a reef that is ideal to drop 200-300gm jigs through.

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POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 131

KINGFISH _ WITH MATHEW HEWETSON

Slow jigs work on kings especially when fished in work-ups where this fish took a 120gm OK Fish jig.

Mechanical jigging requires a synchronised rhythm of half winding and short lifts on the rod to best work the jig.

There are plenty videos on YouTube to check out and we also have a great how-to video up on FIGZ Club if you want to sign up to view it. The more you do it the better you will get at it, and I believe it is more rewarding tricking a big fish to take your lure over a live bait.

For the jigs, I would suggest any brand from 200-300gm to start out with, the lighter jigs are easier to work for longer and if the current or drift picks up you may need to go up to 300gm or heavier jigs. When the kings are hungry, jigging can be fast and furious, and you and the crew can land a dozen kings in no time. It is a remarkably effective way to fish for kings in deeper water. Gloves are another good idea to help hold the jig or line when boating them providing better grip and protection for the hook with a thrashing fish.

SOFTBAIT SURPRISE

Another lure that might surprise people that kingies love to strike are softbaits. Typically, these are usually employed by anglers for snapper fishing, but kingfish will happily grab them. Their lifelike profile falling through the water obviously fools the fish and we have often hooked up on large kings when softbaiting.

They will take most colours or styles, but I have found the Z-Man Atomic Sunrise to be a top performer on kingfish.

When you hook a kingie on a softbait combo, it is heavily favoured in the fish’s odds as you are fishing using lighter braid (12-15lb) and with light fluoro leaders (20lb), which are most popular with snapper anglers. I have gone up to 18-20lb Sunline braid and use heavier 25-30lb leaders if I want to target kingies on softbaits. This gives you a better chance to help land a good fish.

Remember that on lighter softbait combos that you need to be patient, it can take up to half an hour at times to land a king on this tackle but that is the fun of it. Your skipper also needs to be at the ready to start the engine to assist you during the fight, following the fish in shallow water or carefully leading you away from reefs or structure that a kingie can bust off on. Teamwork is key with fighting big fish.

Kingfish are street fighters and will exploit any weakness in your tackle, you will bust off a lot but if you keep targeting them, then you will land your fair share. Long live the king!

132 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

“Stay the course and try berley to bring baitfish and kings into the area.”

C

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Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Fighting kings on lighter softbait combos is a lot of fun and it takes time to land a fish, ensure you use a heavier leader (25-30lb).

T HE A L L NEW SPO R T 700

The Sport 700 is a boat that is as at home for a day relaxing at anchor as it is when the weather gets up. The proven 26 degree deadrise hull eats the chop and keeps you and your family dry, comfortable and secure in all conditions.

14

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WESTERN AUSTRALIA RIB Worx 08 9430 7007

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08 8472 8295

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POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 133

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ HIGHFIELD E JET 330

E Jet 330 at full speed powering back to boat ramp.

ZERO COMPROMISE BOATING

134 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Highfield Boats, arguably the world's number one in the RIB (Rigid-hull Inflatable Boat) tender sector and a global player in the 5 metre plus sector, with over 27,000 boats delivered worldwide since the brand’s inception in 2011, has recently partnered with New Zealand company ZeroJet to create the Highfield E Jet 330 powered by ZeroJet.

BY RON CZERNIAK, MARINE CONSULTANT

S

ustainability is a huge part of Highfield’s DNA. All hulls and structures are built in aluminium, which is infinitely recyclable. In addition, Highfield powder coat their hulls in an enclosed area to ensure that their environmental footprint remains low from the beginning of the manufacturing process through to the end of each product’s life. Therefore, a conscious decision to manufacture and distribute electrically powered RIB tenders made perfect sense to Highfield, and thus Julien Carussi, the CEO of Highfield since 2010, started a global search for suitable electric outboard and inboard propulsion units for Highfield’s brand.

Having partnered with the Chinese company, ePropulsion for their outboard electric motors, Julien’s ongoing research led him to the New Zealand company ZeroJet, for their inboard electric propulsion units. He liked what he saw during his internet research and contacted Bex Rempel and Neil Mans, the co-founders of ZeroJet and the rest, as they say, is fast becoming history.

Both companies recognised the obvious synergy, not only with their products, but in their philosophy of going greener with something which would counter the carbon footprint of fossil fuel powered watercraft. In rapid time, after a few initial meetings, Highfield shipped a 330 model RIB to New Zealand to be fitted with a ZeroJet propulsion system and batteries. After a bit of experimentation by both parties, and a few prototypes later, the current E Jet 330 was ready for market. Introduced earlier this year at the prestigious Dusseldorf Boat Show, and recently exhibited at

the Auckland On-Water Show, Pacific Powerboat (PPB) magazine was subsequently invited to sea trial the boat and propulsion package.

About eighteen months ago, on behalf of PPB, I sea trialled the ZeroJet System fitted to an OCT 3.5 metre tender (ref March/April 2022 issue). At the time, I was mightily impressed, and my article concluded with the following statement: “There is little doubt in my mind that ZeroJet will soon see a massive international interest in their innovative Kiwi product. Watch this space”.

Well, on a cold, wet, blustery spring day in Auckland during the last week of September, I was able to ‘watch this space’ when time and conditions allowed me to conduct a sea trial of the new Highfield E Jet 330 RIB. My words from a year and a half ago turned out to be quite prophetic. The collaboration with Highfield proving that indeed there is massive international interest in ZeroJet. When last I wrote about ZeroJet, I had zero expectations. This time I had quite high expectations and I was determined to push both the boat and propulsion unit to the max to see if my higher expectations were going to be met.

From the onset the folks at ZeroJet had focused their sights on smaller boats in the 3m to 4m range. Thus, collaborating with Highfield to power their 3.3m RIB made perfect sense. An added bonus for ZeroJet is the fact that they indirectly become part of Highfield’s extensive global distribution network, assuring customers of ongoing back up and service no matter where in the world they are located.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 135

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ HIGHFIELD E JET 330

Clockwise: E Jet 330 starboard side tight turn port.

E Jet 330 electric engine room.

Large volume forward locker.

Highfield recognised and acknowledged the general benefits of electric over ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) propulsion. In addition to the obvious advantages – no petrol or diesel emissions, less noise, fewer moving parts, less maintenance, and a faster start – there are several additional rewards for inboard electric jet units when compared to electric outboards: •

No exposed propeller means safer use in the water and safer swimming.

Showing stern jet unit at low speed.

•

Without an outboard shaft, the low-profile RIB hull makes beaching easy and allows the boat to skim over shallow ecosystems.

Approaching boat ramp dock after sea trials.

•

The more compact profile makes it easier to stow and store in smaller spaces.

•

The ZeroJet 15 kW electric motor and jet pump unit is compact and inboard, meaning more space on the boat compared to an equivalent outboard engine.

Having used, tested, and enjoyed small RIBs over many years of boating and diving, I fully expected the Highfield 330 to embody all the best that a RIB has to offer with minimal, if any, negatives. After all, a company only manages to sell tens of thousands 136 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

of inflatables, by getting things right. Yes? But lots of boat builders get many things right, so what sets this Highfield E Jet 330 apart? That was why we were braving the early spring frequent squalls and cold temperatures off Whangaparaoa Peninsula to find out.

It was vitally important that the sea trials be conducted on this particular day as the boat was being crated up and sent to Florida later the same day for the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show at the end of October. No pressure! Launching the E Jet 330 at the Gulf Harbour boat ramp was quick and easy. Simply back the trailer down the ramp, immerse hull and slide boat off the custom trailer once wheels are fender deep. Although the Highfield NZ Distributor (Aakron Xpress) provide a trailer if required, this is offered as an option, as most of these boats will likely end up being used as tenders for large, luxury pleasure craft.

After launching and tying up alongside the boat ramp dock, Zane and I hopped aboard and headed out to sea. Zane briefed me on the controls, instruments and general features of the boat and jet drive as we silently navigated the channel out to open water. When it comes to actual operation, what’s different between this 3.3m RIB equipped with an outboard versus a

ZeroJet inboard unit? Not much as it turned out. In other words, if you are used to driving a small helm-station RIB with a conventional outboard, it doesn’t take much to learn how to operate a similar ZeroJet equipped craft.

Idling out to open water, one is amazed at the quietness of this vessel and, with time to look around the boat before opening her up once past the breakwater, several features impressed. Perhaps the most immediate is the FCT Console (a one-piece combination seating/steering console that secures to the aluminium deck), a Highfield concept with only a few changes made to suit the ZeroJet propulsion unit. This uniquely designed console allows for all controls and instrumentation to be housed in a module that seems to float independently from the rest of theboat. It is futuristic, unintrusive and ergonomically situated for intuitive use of the throttle and steering wheel, while also housing the simple to reach and use instrumentation, consisting of only two panels. One being the variable mode LCD electronic display. The Drive Mode shows the motor power in use, speed in knots (from a GPS) and the percentage charge of the battery. When the charger is plugged in, the Charging Mode is displayed, showing the estimated charging time. The other panel consisting of four simple buttons to control the bilge pump, navigation lights, deck lights and courtesy/mooring light. Seemingly Spartan but offering everything that is required. However, if you wanted to retrofit a GPS/Fishfinder unit for example, this could easily be integrated into the FCT unit, as there is ample space on the top of the console and volume aplenty inside the rounded oblong ‘box’.

E Jet 330 being driven onto trailer makes retrieval easy.

Clean and uncluttered internal layout.

ELECTRIC JET RIB FOR ZERO COMPROMISE BOATING The new EJET 330 electric jet combines Highfield’s performance and strength as the world’s leading manufacturer of aluminium RIBs, with ZeroJet’s e�cient and powerful electric system.

• No exposed propeller means safer use in the water.

• The low-profile makes beaching easy and allows the boat to skim over shallow ecosystems.

• The compact size makes it easier to stow and store in smaller spaces.

• The ZeroJet 15 kW electric motor and jet pump is integrated into the hull, giving more space on the boat compared to outboard engines.

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 137

PACIFIC POWERBOAT REVIEWS _ HIGHFIELD E JET 330

For information out on the water and when charging, the display screen shows speed, power-train levels and battery stateof-charge.

The ZeroJet propulsion system is housed beneath the two-person, aft orientated seat, which has a back rest that can lay flat for ease of movement around the boat, and which also allows unrestricted access to the stern, which is fitted with a small but useable swim platform extending the full width of the stern between the Hypalon tubes. This feature is not available with an electric outboard set up, as the outboard takes up too much space. Another plus for the ZeroJet system.

The 48V LiFePO4 batteries (10.8kWh) are housed in a bespoke, watertight battery box under the brushed foam teak finish deck, which can be accessed by simply unbolting the deck floorboards.

Up forward is a waterproof bow locker with more than ample space for spare clothing, etc. and when shut, it serves as a padded seat. In my opinion, this vessel is ideally suited for two to four people, even though it is rated for five, maximum. With only two people, it is perfect.

The helm station is well designed for the driver and companion to sit comfortably beside each other while allowing the helmsperson ample room to steer the boat and operate the forward/aft throttle unit attached to the arm of the FCT console. As mentioned above, the throttle works pretty much the same as an outboard unit, the only key difference I noted is that it takes a bit more of a definitive downward thrust when engaging reverse and it is important to remember that one needs to progress in stages from forward throttle to neutral to reverse. The reason for this is simple to understand, when you appreciate that what you are doing is mechanically altering the position of the stern jet pod which, as you would suspect, is heavier and bulkier than a propeller.

Enough said, time to rock and roll!

138 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Despite the blustery weather, we were able find relatively calm waters outside the breakwater to put the E Jet 330 through its paces.

Zane piloted the boat initially so I could learn how she handled at several throttle speeds and through various low and high-speed manoeuvres before I took over the helm, so as not to make a complete fool of myself.

While watching Zane, it soon became apparent that there were a few key differences with this propulsion system versus an outboard motor set-up and when it was my turn to drive, these differences became abundantly clear.

First off; acceleration. Over the past decade there has been a lot of hoopla around the insane acceleration that electric vehicles are able to achieve compared to their fossil fuel brethren. So too is it true when it comes to marine electric jet propulsion. You hit that throttle full forward and the boat jumps instantly up on the plane and, in super quick time, we hit our maximum recorded speed for the day, of 19 knots. Exhilarating to say the least!

Second; sound. There is a lot of hype over how quiet electric boats are, and for the most part, this is true.

However, with the E Jet 330, there is some noise. Not from the electric motor, but from the volume of water being thrust through the jet propulsion unit. Basic physics. But is this noise annoying? Not in the least.

And compared to the noise an outboard generates, even though modern four stroke units are a way down on the decibel level, compared to good old two stroke units, the ZeroJet unit is noticeably quieter.

Third; handling. Here is where you experience a difference between a RIB of this size fitted with a conventional 20 hp equivalent outboard and the ZeroJet drive. The helm is somewhat ‘heavier’ when

With an underfloor battery pack and internal jet drive, the E Jet 330 is designed to maximise on-board space.

SPECIFICATIONS

Boat Design Name Highfield E Jet 330 Overall length 336cm Overall width 182cm Tube diameter 43cm Number of air chambers 3 Maximum load 425kg Boat weight from 225kg Price (without trailer) from NZD $55,000

HIGHFIELDBOATS.COM ZEROJET.COM

you push the boat at speed through tight turns. Not surprisingly, when you think about it, as there is a lot of hefty ‘jet-pod’ at the stern to move around. In discussion with Jonathan Tuboeuf, the director of Highfield operations in New Zealand, when I mentioned this to him, he advised that the steering is conventional mechanical cable.

I suggested that perhaps hydraulic steering may alleviate some of this ‘heaviness’ when careening the craft around at high speeds?

As the E Jet 330 package is still evolving, this may be something for consideration?

That tiny niggle aside, once you start putting this RIB through tight turns at high speeds, the exhilaration of the ride soon puts all other thoughts from your mind!

When Zane jumped ashore and handed the helm over to me before I headed back out on my own, my immediate question was; “How hard can I push this craft”?

Receiving his “Go for it” response, I went for it! With increasing confidence, I pushed harder and harder, bouncing the 330 through a short chop and executing alarmingly tight turns, thinking to myself that if this all turns to custard, at least I’ve got my inflatable life jacket on, and the kill switch cord is securely looped around my leg! As it turned out, my concerns were ill-founded. No matter how hard I tried to ‘unhinge’ the E Jet from the ocean surface, it just dug its ass in and kept going.

Although I haven’t had the opportunity to test a 330 with a conventional outboard, I suspect that if I were to do the same manoeuvres the stern would have let loose.

Although this craft is tremendously

FEATURES pragmatic in this age of alternative fuel Hypalon tubes, High tensile chromated consideration and, for much of its use will & powder coated Aluminium, Deep be simply ferrying people and supplies V Hull, 15 kW/ 20 hp ZeroJet drive, from shore to boat and vice versa, this 48 V system, 40A charger (requires is also a safe, fun boat. With no exposed a 16A socket & AC 90 – 264V power propeller and abundant power, this little source), 10.8 kWh battery packs craft is ideal for water skiing or towing (underfloor-mounted), Eliminates the the kids around on a sea biscuit, not to necessity of having dangerous petrol mention that its low profile (draft) allows on board the mother ship, LCD display, it to be beached easily and to skim over Electronic, with a mechanical reverse shallow reef ecosystems. throttle, Wheel and steering system.

Sea trials completed, we returned to the FCT console, 20-degree hull deadrise boat ramp to wrap up the day. I mentioned angle gives handling assurance in the launching was easy, well retrieving the boat toughest conditions, Flush Mount nonis equally easy. Once the trailer is backed return valves, Bow Locker, Integrated down into the water and submerged to its Transom Supports, Removable Set wheel arches, simply power the boat onto Lifting points and Towing Eyes, Tow the trailer and secure it. Job done! After bridle points, Brushed Foam Teak Finish deck, Heavy duty rubbing strake, that, it’s just a matter of plugging the boat Full length keel guard, Tank strap kit, into your home charger or (if stowed in Highfield dry bag, Foot pump, Oars a large vessel ‘parking garage’) onboard power source.

Conclusion: This is the complete package, but it does, as one would expect with a top quality, state of ZEROJET SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS the art product, not come Includes batteries, throttle, and LCD display cheap (starting at NZD Battery (kWh) 10.8 $55,000.00 without trailer).

Nominal voltage (V) 48 Cost aside, there is little to Power (kW) (20 hp equivalent) 15 find fault with the E Jet 330 Maximum speed (knots)* 20 powered by ZeroJet. As I Range @ 3 knots speed (nautical miles) * 23 said in the conclusion of my Range @ 14 knots speed (nautical miles) * 12 previous ZeroJet article.

Runtime @ 3 knots speed (hours) 7.5 Runtime @ 14 knots speed (hours) 1 No pollution, minimal Charge time 40A charger at 220V (hours) 4 noise. Just you, the ocean, *Based on a standard 1-person load and a rechargeable battery.

I like that!

POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 139

PWC: NEWS YOUR & NEWPWC MODELS CHOOSING

PWC - UPGRADED MODELS, COLOURS & TECHNOLOGY We are excited to share the 2024 line up from the three major players –

Yamaha, Sea-Doo and Kawasaki! More power, colour and choice than ever before and a superb way to create unforgettable memories on water.

FX HO

YAMAHA

Yamaha is excited to announce the 2024 WaveRunner lineup which sees more power, more colour and more choice than ever before. Yamaha WaveRunners continue to lead the pack when it comes to big displacement marine engines, with the release of the industry’s first 1.9 Litre naturally aspirated high output engine, delivering quicker acceleration and higher top-end speed in HO models across the FX, GP and VX range.

140 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

FX CRUISER HO

GP HO

New 1.9 Litre Naturally Aspirated HO Engine A new 1898cc (1.9L), four-stroke, four-cylinder, 16-valve High Output marine engine replaces the Yamaha 1.8L High Output motor that previously powered the FX Cruiser HO, FX HO, GP1800R HO and VX Cruiser HO models.

This more powerful engine provides quicker and smoother acceleration and higher top-end speed. This is achieved through the engine's increased displacement, optimised intake and exhaust paths, and a 10-percent larger throttle body for more power and torque.

VX CRUISER HO

This new engine is paired with a new top loader intake grate on the FX HO and VX HO models for improved pickup and acceleration.

FX Series Upgrades FX Cruiser HO and FX HO models have been upgraded with the new 1.9 Litre naturally aspirated high output engine and a new intake grate for improved jet pump efficiency and acceleration. The larger 7-inch Connext touchscreen, previously only available on the FX SVHO models, is now fitted as standard on FX Cruiser HO and FX HO models.

FX SVHO

The home screen layout of the Connext touchscreen has been refreshed across all FX models, delivering a cleaner look and improved visibility, while the Drive Control options have been expanded to now offer Economy, Towing, Performance, Comfort and Custom setting options, for an improved riding experience.

2024 sees the FX Limited SVHO, FX Cruiser SVHO and FX SVHO return with a mix of exciting colours, and extensive list of high-quality features carried over from 2023. FX SVHO models continue to be powered by the supercharged SVHO 1.8L four-cylinder engine delivering awesome performance and proven reliability.

FX LIMITED SVHO POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 141

PWC: NEWS & NEW MODELS

GP Series Upgrades GP1800R HO has been rebadged as the GP 19HO and receives the new, more powerful, 1.9 Litre naturally aspirated high output engine. Offering a unique blend of race inspired features such as auto trim and launch control matched with the versatile power of a naturally aspirated engine, the GP 19HO is in a class of its own.

The all-conquering GP1800R SVHO has been rebadged as the GP SVHO and will once again be available in two striking colour options.

GP SVHO models continue to be powered by the supercharged SVHO 1.8L four-cylinder engine delivering awesome performance and proven reliability.

GP19

GP 1800R

EX 7808

VX DELUXE

EX and Freestyle Series The EX Series and Jet Blaster return in 2024 with exciting new colours and the same performance and features that make these models so popular. The SuperJet returns in the existing clean and sharp white appearance and continues to offer a modern take on traditional stand-up riding with the benefit of the latest four-stroke engine technology.

VX CRUISER

VX Series Upgrades The VX Series offers an affordable, feature-rich, and versatile package for those that appreciate reliability, quality, and performance, without the luxury price tag. The 2024 VX series includes the VX Cruiser HO, VX Cruiser and VX Deluxe.

“The MY24 line up is extremely exciting, with our next generation power plant taking the performance of our naturally aspirated High Output craft to the next level.” said Pete Dick, Group Products Marketing Manager. “We are very proud of the high quality and comprehensive product line-up we can offer New Zealand customers in the 2024 model range.” 2024 Waverunners will be available in dealerships towards the end of the year.

YAMAHA-MOTOR.CO.NZ

This year’s VX Cruiser HO packs even more punch, incorporating the new 1.9 Litre big horsepower engine and a new intake grate for improved acceleration and top-end speed.

“The 2024 line up is extremely exciting, with our next generation power plant taking the performance of our naturally aspirated High Output craft to the next level.”

142 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

JET BLASTER

MY23

Save

Run out

UP

To

$3000

*

FROM $0 DEPOSIT FINANCE AVAILABLE WITH YMF ^ /YamahaMarineNZ | yamaha-motor.co.nz

*Terms and conditions apply: All prices stated above are GST inclusive. Promotion available between 01/09/23 to 31/01/24 on new and eligible MY23 WaveRunners through participating authorised Yamaha WaveRunner dealers, while stocks last. $3,000 (including GST) off RRP saving is applicable to eligible new MY23 GP1800R SVHO, FX LTD SVHO, FX CR SVHO, FX SVHO WaveRunners. $2,000 (including GST) off RRP saving is applicable to eligible new MY23 GP1800R HO, FX CR HO, FX HO. $1,500 (including GST) off RRP saving is applicable to eligible new MY23 VX CR HO, VX LIMITED, VX DELUXE, MY22 & 23 SUPERJET. $1,000 (including GST) off RRP saving is applicable to eligible new MY23 EX DELUXE, EX, JET BLASTER WaveRunners. Offer available for private buyers only on specified models and where warranty is registered on or before the 31/01/24. See your participating authorised Yamaha WaveRunner dealership for details.

Discount savings must be redeemed at the dealership and must be used in one transaction at time of eligible purchase. Not available in conjunction with any other offers. Yamaha Motor New Zealand Ltd NZBN : 9429040177113. ^Finance is provided by Yamaha Motor Finance New Zealand Ltd (YMF) NZBN. 9429036270798, FSP. 9622.

PWC: NEWS & NEW MODELS

KAWASAKI

Kawasaki currently have five models available in New Zealand.

The Ultra 160 was a mid-2023 release – the 2024 models have not yet been released.

ULTRA 160 The Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160 personal watercraft features 3-passenger seating, a powerful 1,498cc engine, and an advanced deep-V hull. Get everything you need to enjoy a thrilling day out on the water.

3-passenger seating and a powerful 1,498cc engine ensure a day to remember for the entire crew. The modern hull design, same as the flagship Jet Ski Ultra 310 model, is something worth showing off whether you're parked in the driveway or in the water.

“Get everything you need to enjoy a thrilling day out on the water.”

PREMIUM SUPERCHARGED OPEN WATER

Here is an overview of the models currently available:

STAND-UP

ULTRA 310X

SX-R 160

SPORT ULTRA 310LX-S

ULTRA 310LX STX 160X 144 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

KAWASAKI.CO.NZ/JETSKI

PWC: NEWS YOUR & NEWPWC MODELS CHOOSING

RXP-X

SEA-DOO

Sea-Doo continues to push the boundaries to create unforgettable memories on water, with the model year 2024 Sea-Doo product line-ups.

Sea-Doo is revving up the waves for adrenaline seekers who love the thrill of acceleration, by offering the new class leading 325hp Sea-Doo RXP-X/RXT-X and what should be an Aussie favourite the 300hp Sea-Doo GTR-X. In the pontoon category, the award-winning Sea-Doo Switch, which took the world by storm two years ago will now be available with some subtle refinements as well as upgraded technologies.

“Our commitment to relentless innovation, continued refinement and creating industry leading experiences has been our guiding light to deliver the most comprehensive line-up of personal watercraft and pontoons in the industry,” says James Heintz, Director of Global Product Strategy, Sea-Doo & Marine Group at BRP. “In addition to revolutionary watercraft, we also know that owners look to personalize their experience. Our accessory teams have worked hand in hand with our vehicle engineers to launch 25 new on-water accessories for our entire line-up that cater to unparalleled days on the water.”

Record breaking performance from world leading engine innovation The industry’s highest performing watercraft platform just got faster with the introduction of the 325hp Sea-Doo RXP-X/RXT-X. Featuring the world’s highest horsepower and fastest accelerating PWC engine right

RXT-X

out of the box, the supercharged 325 hp Rotax 1630 ACE, the RXP-X has an eye watering 0-60 mph time below 3.4 seconds and the highest PWC horsepower to weight ratio in the industry for ultimate buoy course performance creating a breathtaking experience on the water. When riding

off-shore, riders can consider the RXT-X, which features the same 325hp Rotax engine but fully configured for offshore speed, stability and control.

X-Performance features found on the RXP-X and RXT-X include X-sponsons, polished impeller, extended VTS and launch control.

“Our commitment to relentless innovation, continued refinement and creating industry leading experiences has been our guiding light.”

146 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

The rebirth of the accessible, high-performance watercraft The launch of the new GTR-X marks the rebirth of accessible high performance PWCs with its supercharged Rotax 1630 300 hp ACE engine. Featuring an impressive power-to-weight ratio, coupled with the fun characteristics of its hull; the GTR-X is a perfect fit for adrenaline seekers and families looking for a mix of performance, versatility and price accessibility. For adrenaline seekers expecting breathtaking acceleration, an extended VTS, launch control and polished impeller help to achieve a 0-60 mph time of around 4 seconds.

Putting riders in the right spot to handle that type of acceleration are low-rise handlebars, an exclusive Ergolock 2 piece racing seat, angled footwell wedges and the GTR hull, which delivers even more playful and nimble handling while remaining stable and predictable. Spending large amounts of time on the water on a GTR-X is easy with the larger fuel tank, swim platform with LinQ compatibility and spacious seating. Extensive storage also enhances time on the water.

GTR-X

SWITCH

Refinement to maximize unforgettable days on the water The award-winning Sea-Doo Switch family of pontoon boats have made huge waves since being introduced just a few years ago with the fun, accessible and adaptive boating experience they bring to the marine industry. During the course of those years, it has become very apparent that owners enjoy customising their Switch’s to fulfil their needs out on the water. At 21 feet long and powered by 230hp, the new Switch Cruise enhances the cruising experience and will host a range of improved technologies and design elements.

Sea-Doo Switch Cruise comes with a galvanised trailer and includes updates such as a full swim platform that will make the whole family comfortable and happy.

Customisation is a very important part of the Sea-Doo Spark experience. For its evolution, the team has taken it to another level, incorporating more LinQ lite locations than before. Riders now have up to 6 possible locations to add accessories such as action camera holders to capture their experience.

Sea-Doo has the right vehicles, apparel, and accessories to ensure the whole family makes the most out of their time on the water, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

SEA-DOO.COM

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AN INTRODUCTION TO PWCs

AN INTRODUCTION TO

PWC Owners and users of personal watercraft (PWCs) have discovered they can enjoy almost any boating activity on these little boats, except perhaps sleeping on board. A PWC can be used to day-cruise or even tour over fairly long distances, if you stay in shoreside accommodations at your destinations.

BY DOUG DUKESON 148 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

M

any PWCs have enough power to tow a wakeboarder or a tube. With accessories, they can be set up to be a very capable fishing craft and because they draw very little water they’re nimble enough to explore shallow bays and crevasses.

A PWC is easy to tow and launch without an expensive heavy-duty tow vehicle, so they’re perfect for boaters who like to roam and explore new waterways on our coasts and lakes. For those feeling competitive, there are active national and regional race series for personal watercraft, although to be competitive you need a performance enhanced machine.

Trailers come in one, two, three or four unit options.

Fishing from a PWC has become a very popular pastime.

Ownership Costs of Personal Watercraft (PWC) Personal watercraft prices range from less than $13,000 for compact, two-passenger model to more than $30,000 for the most powerful, luxurious and feature-laden threepassenger models. Most owners use a PWC trailer for off-season storage and moving the craft to and from the water, and the trailer is sold separately from the craft.

Expect to pay about $3,000 for a basic single-craft trailer to $9,000 for a trailer that can carry two PWCs. If you anticipate using the PWC in saltwater, invest in a galvanized or aluminium trailer rather than painted steel—it will last much longer.

Speaking of trailers, before making a purchase make sure your vehicle has a tow rating that can handle the weight of the boat and trailer you are considering. (Unless you have a smart car, odds are your vehicle can handle the towing.)

When considering PWC price don't forget the basic items you'll need to get out on the water, including dock lines, life jackets and other safety gear required in your area. PWCs are relatively affordable, but be sure they fit within your unique budget.

High-performance, high-tech models with seats for three are naturally on the upper end of the scale, but if you intend to ride on your own, you can save money by buying a smaller model with less bling.

You can get out on the water on a PWC for around $12,000 to $13,000 plus trailer.

The basic drive principal of a PWC. POWERBOATMAGAZINE.CO.NZ 149

AN INTRODUCTION TO PWCs

Maintenance Costs Compared to conventional boats, PWCs require minimal maintenance; an annual oil change and possibly off-season storage prep is about it for most owners. You’ll want a quality tight-fitting cover if your PWC will be stored outside. PWCs are self-draining so do not require an extensive offseason storage procedure, garaging is always a better option for security and protection from the elements.

As with any boat, the key operation cost for any PWC is going to be fuel, and that cost will be influenced by how you use the craft and its size and power. A more-powerful PWC will naturally use more fuel, and if you enjoy hard acceleration and faster speed or usually ride with three aboard, you’ll also use more fuel.

Some PWC now have an “eco” mode that electronically reduces performance and can dramatically improve fuel economy. In general, though, fuel costs will be much less than for larger boats.

Other operational costs include annual registration, insurance and trailer registration and off-season storage if you can’t or don’t care to store the craft at home.

Owners who live on or near the water might consider investing in a PWC lift or docking ramp that stores the boat out of the water but also makes it easy to launch when it’s time to ride.

Many marinas now have boat storage 150 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

Stand up models are more challenging, but for some riders a lot more fun.

in the form of Boat stacks, where with one phone call you can have your boat lifted and placed on the water ready to go.

Personal Watercraft Technology/Materials/ Features Personal watercraft are offered in two basic styles: sit-down and stand-up models.

Sit-down models have a seat for one to three passengers. Stand-up models have no seat and represent the origins of the sport, which was really kickstarted in the 1970s. Those original stand-up models required a lot of athletic ability to ride well, but today’s stand-up models are wider and longer and much easier to ride.

It’s still more challenging than a sitdown PWC, and for some riders much more entertaining just because it’s a bit of a challenge. Some models, powered with a 1498 cc engine producing over 950 lbs of thrust and a weight of just 550 lbs, the acceleration is impressive. Sit-down models range from “rec-lite” models with seating for two, a 90-horsepower engine and a top speed of over 70 kph (45 mph) to the other extreme of a threepassenger luxury model with over 300 horsepower and a top speed of over 100kph (70 mph).

The most-deluxe models may feature deep-bolstered touring seats, GPS-

based navigation, an audio system and electronic cruise controls that make it easier to tow tubers and skiers. Some models come equipped specifically for tow sports, with a towing pylon and accommodations for a rear-facing “observer” passenger. Others are rigged for anglers, with rod holders and a fishfinder.

All current personal watercraft engines are smooth-and-quiet four-stroke motors, which drive a jet pump that propels the craft with a high-pressure jet of water instead of the propeller.

Because the jet outlet is above the bottom of the hull, a PWC may draw just inches of water at speed, so it’s able to zip over shallows and is easy to beach. The absence of a prop also makes PWCs safer for tow sports.

The most powerful, high-performance PWC models are capable of lightningquick acceleration and top speeds exceeding 100 kph (70 mph) – a performance that demands respect from the rider and requires awareness on the water. These models may not be a good choice for beginners or younger riders, in saying that, many units have a “learning mode” that dials back the performance.

The best personal watercraft is one that fits the way you want to ride —short, quick blasts around the lake, towing tubers all afternoon, fishing and exploring or long-distance touring.

There’s a PWC model equipped for any activity.

Safety Tips

Though PWCs are not inherently dangerous, they are involved in a high percentage of reported boating accidents every year.

Here are some safety tips to review if you’re new to riding: √

Children under the age of 16 should not operate a PWC without an adult on board.

√

Complete a Coastguard Day skipper course - it will offer confidence and as a result make yours (and your families) time on the water more enjoyable.

√

Always have a life jacket (or personal flotation device) onboard for the pilot and each crew member. Make sure that your life jacket and your passenger’s life jackets fit properly and support your individual weights.

√

Never mix PWCs and alcohol.

√

When driving a PWC with a passenger, make sure your passenger is ready to go before you start.

√

When riding a PWC when someone else is driving, make sure that you are holding on tightly. Inform the driver if your hands slip or if you are not ready to go.

√

Never start your engine without attaching the kill switch cord (that is connected to the start/stop switch or your key), to your life jacket or wrist. If you fall off, the machine will automatically stop.

√

Always watch for bad weather conditions.

√

Operate slowly in crowded waterways or anywhere you’re uncertain of traffic rules.

√

Keep hands, feet, hair and clothing away from the pump intake.

√

Avoid operating in water that’s less than 24" (60.96 cm) deep.

√

Know your water landscape and potential dangers below.

√

Life Jacket / PFD Some PWC models produce over 300HP.

Towing a wakeboarder or tube is easy and retrieval effortless.

There is a model and style to suit all.

A PWC can be used to day-cruise or even tour over fairly long distances, if you stay in shoreside accommodations at your destinations.

Safety Equipment

Safety equipment is essential, especially being so exposed to the elements, so you will need to be prepared for all eventualities.

Some suggested equipment include: √

Cell phone (fully charged) in a dry bag or case

√

Handheld, Floating, High Wattage VHF

√

Personal Locator Beacon (if going out wide)

√

First Aid Kit

√

Tow rope

√

Emergency Anchor

√

Drinking Water

√

Eyewear or Goggles

√

Sharkskin Thermal Clothing in colder seasons

√

Footwear

√

Wet Weather Gear if out in the elements

√

Sunscreen

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*Terms and conditions: All prices stated above are GST inclusive. Promotion available between 01/10/23 to 31/01/24 on new and eligible four-stroke F50LB, F70LA, F70XA, F130LA, F130XA outboards, through participating authorised Yamaha outboard dealers, while stocks last. Fully Fitted RRP for new F130LA and F130XA is $21,999 inc GST; Fully Fitted RRP for new F70LA and F70XA is $16,499 inc GST; Fully Fitted RRP for new F50LB is $13,499 inc GST. Offer available for private buyers only on specified models and where warranty is registered on or before the 31/01/24. Fully Fitted Offer pricing includes 703 remote control, 6Y8 gauges, propeller (SS Talon for F130, F70 and AL K series for F50), control cables, and boat fitting. Price excludes removal of previous outboard motor and controls, repairs to electrical systems, fuel system/dash repairs, or steering systems, and transom repairs. Not available in conjunction with any other offers. Yamaha Motor New Zealand Limited. NZBN 9429040177113. ^Finance is156 provided

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