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THE PREMIER PUBLICATION FOR PERFORMANCE POWERBOATING ISSUE 40 • JANUARY/FEBRUARY • 2011 • £3.95/€6
PRINCESS V85-S & V78 ON TEST - THE JEWELS IN THE YACHT BUILDER’S CROWN
PLUS TESTING: Abu Dhabi’s own Voo Doo FOCUS ON: A Red Jet Captain RACING FROM THE UAE
INSIDE CAUDWELL MARINE: Multi-millionaire explains all ON THE ROAD: 2010’s automotive highlights
• 10 MINS WITH NICO VAN AKELYEN • LONDON BOAT SHOW REVIEW
Open up another world. Just one look at the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster makes your heart beat faster. Slide through the gullwing door into the luxury interior and your mouth dries with anticipation, your eyes struggle to take it all in. Fire up the AMG 5.5 litre supercharged V8, lower the roof and you smile. SLR Roadster - Open air driving doesn’t get any better than this.
For full details and to arrange an extended test drive telephone 0845 600 3143.
The SLR Centre of Excellence Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0SL www.slr-uk.com
OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES (MPG/LITRES PER 100KM) FOR SLR ROADSTER: URBAN 13.5/20.9, EXTRA URBAN 26.2/10.8, COMBINED 19.5/14.5. CO2 EMISSIONS 348 G/KM
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Publisher Nicholas Rust T: +44 (0)1932 828015 E: nick@worldofpowerboats.com Editor David Sewell T: +44 (0)1202 620944 E: david@worldofpowerboats.com Art Director Colin Halliday T: +44 (0)8456 443540 E: production@worldofpowerboats.com Designer John Dickinson E: design@worldofpowerboats.com Lifestyle Journalist Sarah-Ellen Brown E: sarah@worldofpowerboats.com Advertising T : +44 (0) 1932 828104 E: sales@worldofpowerboats.com Production Vortex Creative Ltd www.v-creative.co.uk Subscriptions T: +44 (0)1932 828148 E: subscriptions@worldofpowerboats.com Contributors David Ormiston, Nigel Quilter, Jackie Mizen, Allan Brown Photography Dave ‘Snapper’ Ormiston, Paul Lakatos,Vittorio Ubertone, Simon Palfrader, Raffaello Bastiani, Sharkey Images and Carenthusiasts.com Front cover Princess V78 Published by Blue Media Group Ltd Investment House 178 Oatlands Drive, Weybridge Surrey KT13 9ET Reception: +44 (0)1932 828060 Fax: +44 (0)1932 856444 E-mail: info@blue-mediagroup.com ISSN No: 1756-0594 Subscription Rates World of PowerBoats is published six times per year 12 months - UK £26.00 / €45 24 months – UK £44.00 / €72
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR
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hope you’ve all had a memorable festive break and are all raring to get back to whatever you do to pass the time of day and it seems as good a time as any to wish you a successful 2011. You may recall in our last issue a boat test on the Goldfish 29. I didn’t know at the time, our presence in Poole Harbour caused a ‘lock down’ of the harbour that day. It appears, security at the Royal Marine camp were curious as to why an all black RIB was running up and down on the waters off the camp while someone was photographing it. Before they had time to check it out, the RIB was hurtling down the harbour at 70mph. Little did I know that as I was driving home a posse of Marines and a helicopter were scouring the harbour for the craft before they eventually found it at Saltern’s Marina. Manager James Sydenham was puzzled when an officer approached him to ask if he knew the whereabouts of a black RIB. “Yes, I was driving it for a magazine boat test about an hour ago”. After accepting that James was not a terrorist, the officer quite rightly pointed out ‘You can’t be too careful’. On the subject of being careful, may I suggest at the risk of upsetting a few petrol heads that a limit is imposed on the speed of production pleasure boats. I don’t mean a speed limit in open seas, harbours or rivers but overall. I have read a report recently on the amount of deaths that occur in pleasure boat accidents caused by high speed crashes. In one incident a family of five, two adults and three young children were wiped out when the driver lost control at 90mph. We all know today’s family car can travel at speeds up to 100mph but it’s quite different from driving fast on water. We hear boat builders say their boat is OK for speeds up to 100 mph and 80mph is no longer regarded as breath-taking but is the driver up to the task. Look at an offshore or circuit race boat. The crew are donned in crash helmets, lifejackets, air supply etc. etc. and all have to undergo a test before getting a licence. But any Tom, Dick or Harry can purchase an ultra fast, over-powered monohull or catamaran and put to sea. Why not sell them a machine gun as in the wrong hands, a gun can be dangerous. In the meantime, it’s worth noting 99.9% of powerboat owners are sensible, level-headed individuals who display a high degree of respect to other boat owners. Have a great 2011. David Sewell Editor
© Copyright. Blue Media Group Ltd – All rights reserved. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication, the publishers can not be held liable for errors and omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without prior consent in writing to the publisher.
E-mail us at editorial@worldofpowerboats.com To subscribe log on to: www.worldofpowerboats.com/subscribe WORLD OF P OWE RB OAT S
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NEWS: Latest news and gossip from around world
14 NEW BOATS: We have a look at the latest in the world of luxury and performance boating 16 BOAT SHOW: The Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show – Smaller than usual but oozing quality 20 FOCUS ON: A Day in the life of a Red Jet captain – After 25 years, the job is as enjoyable as the day I started
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24 COUNTRY FOCUS: Boating in the UAE – From traditional Dhows to Superyachts 28 ROUND-UP: Marinas, who invented them and how the mooring fees vary 32 COVER STORY: The jewel in Princess’s crown - we test the V85-S and V78 36 BOAT TESTING: We test the latest launch in Middle Eastern waters, the Voo Doo from Abu Dhabi
Contents IssUE 40 • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011
40 BOAT TESTING: Putting the superb Revenger 32 RIB through its paces
52 RACING ROUND-UP: Latest from the racing line in Qatar for the F1 and Dubai and Abu Dhabi for Class 1
44 COMPANY PROFILE: Caudwell Marine launches its new 4 stroke F1 engine, we interview John Caudwell in the UAE
58 10 MINUTES WITH: Nico Van Akelyen, One of Europe’s leading engine tuners and distributor
48 ON THE ROAD: We look at some of the automotive highlights of 2010 and some of the awards manufacturers have received
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NEWS
NEW ORDER FOR MOONEN 25 METRE HIGH-SPEED ALUMINIUM MOTORYACHT Moonen Shipyards in the Netherlands has announced the order for a brandnew 25.15-metre high-speed aluminium motoryacht. The Moonen 82 Alu will be capable of reaching 25 knots and have an exceptional range for a fast yacht, being able to cruise much further than vessels of an equivalent size and speed. The fleet of high speed Moonens has been growing in recent years, including several custom-built all-aluminium yachts. It was the
vision of Moonen to create an aluminium range of yachts called the Alu-series. “Our first highspeed yacht of this range was the Moonen 94 Alu Nilo and the Moonen 82 Alu is part of a plan to make a range of boats in various sizes,” comments Emile Bilterijst, Managing Director of Moonen Shipyards. “As Moonen does not develop new designs without a potential launching customer, we are delighted that a client has signed a contract to create this exceptional 82-foot aluminium boat.”
The Moonen 82 Alu will combine a high degree of displacement comfort with an option to go 25 knots. As the owners are also looking for low fuel consumption, the hull needs to be very efficient at low speeds. The design for the hull is the subject of extensive research work, including lines models. A stringent testing programme is also underway as the yard gears up to start building this exciting new project. Launching is scheduled for 2012.
REMOTE CONTROL AND MONITORING SYSTEM VIA A SMARTPHONE, IPAD AND/OR PC Capi2 Nederland BV introduce the Capi2 Communicator - a smart communication and alarm monitoring system that gives you access to all the on-board information you need to make independent decisions. With the Capi2 Communicator, you will always know the exact status on board your vessel. It includes integrated CCTV, tank and battery monitoring, security, speedometers, temperature and wind-speed readouts, GPS, compass as well as complete AC-DC control within the alarm monitoring system. The Capi2 Communicator can be programmed to send text messages in emergencies and allows direct contact via a Smartphone, iPad and/or PC so you can see precisely what’s going on. Capi2 Nederland BV is the manufacturer of the revolutionary Capi2 distributed power system for yachts and power boats. The Capi2 distributed power system represents a new generation of boat-integrated control devices and offers you a really easy-to-
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manage boat that incorporates the most advanced technology available. Capi2 Nederland BV, Tijmen Harberink, telephone: +31(0) 40 2847001. For more information visit www.capi2.com.
RYA ONLINE INTERACTIVE TRAINING COURSES At the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show, held at Excel, London the RYA launched its brand new fully interactive online training course – Essential Navigation and Seamanship. A first for the RYA providing as its name suggests, all the essential knowledge for when you’re afloat from navigation and safety to seamanship and planning. The course is aimed at everyone, from those new to sailing and motorboating including RIBs and other small powerboats, sea anglers and divers right through to experienced dinghy and keelboat sailors and inshore racers. Being online means it’s completely flexible as to when and where you take it and it allows you to work through it at your own speed. Richard Falk, RYA Training Manager, who officially launched the new course at the show said: “Essential Navigation and Seamanship is a great starting point before moving on to more advanced navigation courses such as Day Skipper, it forms a real building block approach to training. “The course also makes an ideal accompaniment to back up the knowledge required for practical courses whether you’re a new or inexperienced skipper or crew, or just a bit rusty.” Written by top RYA training experts and designed by award winning E-learning designers the course is easy to use, fully interactive and packed with engaging graphics and clear instructions. Alongside the online technology it also incorporates the use of practice charts in your learning. • To find out more about this new course, to trial the course and find your nearest training centre offering the course, visit www. ryainteractive. org or call the RYA Training Department on 02380 604100.
ABSOLUTE 43 FLY AND ABSOLUTE 50 FLY Always present at the International Boat Show in Barcelona, Absolute has participated at the 49th edition of this important Spanish event exhibiting the Absolute 50 Fly and the Absolute 52 Sport Yacht. In this nautical season, Absolute is developing a new diffused sales network in Spain that could assist its ship-owners during the stages of their journeys along the beautiful Spanish coasts and by the Balearic Islands. At the moment, Absolute has appointed two new dealers: Stay Nautica for Catalunya and Amo Yacht for Ibiza. Two companies with decades of experience in the nautical and charter market. In Catalunya, Stay Nautica covers the territory, as well as the headquarters in El Masnou, with sales and service points in Puerto Marina Palamós, Puerto Matarò, Port Ginestra and Puerto Segur de Calafell. It is also organizing a new service center for boats up to 90 feet approx by the new harbor of Badalona. Stay Nautica is structured to offer its customers every kind of technical support, as well as logistics and finance. In the Balearic Islands, Amo Yacht is a well-known and deeply rooted in Ibiza. Its staff, who speak the European languages, may reserve for its clients a VIP reception service and customized charter promotions. Amo Yacht, with its headquarters in Marina Botafosch, boasts a fleet of 20 boats for charter ranging from 8 to 30 metres and can offer its customers various technical services.
MORE SPEED RECORDS FOR EVINRUDE AT CONISTON Coniston Speed Record week has seen another Whittle added to the record books. Sam Whittle, aged 18, the son of the holder of many speed records Keith Whittle, achieved a Silver Star when he broke the National record for the UK Formula Future Offshore E900 class,
powered by an Evinrude E-Tec 90 engine. This year was Sam’s first participation in Coniston Records Week and he commented “For many years I have sat on the bank watching, and to get a record and Silver Star in my first year has always been my goal”. Due to the worst weather seen during the week for many years Friday saw a lull in the wind and Sam with his father as navigator saw a record breaking speed of 50.24mph average for his 2 runs. With a Phantom Hull and Standard Production Evinrude E-Tec 90 green engine the boat is prepared and maintained at their company Powertech Marine Ltd on Hayling Island
ULTRASONIC ANTIFOULING LTD LAUNCHES SERIES II Following considerable design development of its much praised antifouling system, Ultrasonic Antifouling Ltd (UAL), the world leader in the use of ultrasonic technology for the prevention of underwater fouling, has launched the highly advanced Ultra Series II. Series II is a design engineered system to incorporate a professional streamlined control box with watertight plug connectors and a new low profile transducer which can be disconnected from the cable for fitting. This much improved system makes installation quicker and easier. Although greatly improved, the new system will cost even less, making the Ultra Series II highly cost effective, as well as being the most efficient ultrasonic system on the market, as shown by long term, independent testing. To reflect the different hull configurations which can be protected by the Ultra Series II, the system is available as separate Sailboat or Powerboat versions. A new Ultra 30 will also join the range to provide a 3 transducer system for twin engined powerboats and larger yachts. www.ultrasonic-antifouling.com
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NEWS
PETERS & MAY ENTERS BOAT TRANSPORTATION PARTNERSHIP IN RUSSIA
EDOX ICEMAN I, LIMITED EDITION THE NEW ICEMAN I HAS ALL THE ATTRIBUTES of an extreme timepiece: a wide diameter of 43mm, a black PVD coating and a black rubber strap resistant to sea salt. Moreover, it is water resistant to a record of 1000 meters and is equipped with the essential helium security valve. Readability underwater needs to be optimal, so the stunning dial in black carbon is decorated with orange and white hands and markings. To perfect the combination, the new Iceman I Limited Edition is equipped with the automatic Edox 96 calibre as well as a splendid rotating black ceramic bezel. This new timepiece is limited to 600 pieces worldwide and comes with a certificate of authenticity and exclusive box.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: Functions: hours, minutes, small second, date Calibre: Edox 96 Diameter: 43 mm Finishings: 316L stainless steel and black PVD coating, limited numbering of the watch engraved on a plate affixed to the case flank Bezel: unidirectional rotating
black ceramic bezel Valve: automatic helium valve Water resistance: 1000 meters / 100 ATM / 3300 feet Dial: black carbon, orange and white markings and indices Glass: scratch-resistant sapphire with anti-reflective treatment Strap: genuine black rubber with stainless steel and PVD coated clasp, embossed Edox logo
Edox is supporting Christian Redl, world record holder of multiple free dives and worldwide specialist of free dives under the ice. Christian Redl will attempt to free dive at -60 meters in February 2011. Iceman I Limited Edition - Suggested retail price: €1,650.
Peters & May, a world leader in the provision of marine logistics, has entered a new partnership agreement with the appointment of Logistics Department BG as its exclusive agent for Russia. The Moscow based Logistics Department BG has a strong presence in the Russian leisure boating industry and its parent company, Burevestnik Group represents many yachting brands in Russia and CIS countries, including Avon, Baja, Boston Whaler, BWA, Cigarette, Chris-Craft, Fairline, Malibu, MasterCraft, Mulder, Riva, Royal Tender, Seabob, SeaRay, and Sunseeker. Angus Bruce Jones, Managing Director of Peters & May comments on the new agreement, “We partner with companies that support customers with the same high standards of service and knowledge in their local markets. We already have a longstanding relationship with the Burevestnik Group and have worked closely with the company on the shipment of all Fairline and Sunseeker models destined for the Russian market over the last ten years. Natalia Makurenkova, the Director of Logistics Department BG comments, “We have been consistently pleased with the support of Peters & May for our own shipments around the world. We are delighted that we will be working hand-in-hand with the company to support boat owners, dealers and boat builders moving boats to and from Russia.” Customers interested in receiving information on Peters & May’s services in Russia should contact Richard Howatt via emailing richard@petersandmay or alternatively by phoning +44 (0)23 80480486.
KILLER SHRIMP CONFIRMED AT FURTHER UK LOCATIONS The Environment Agency (EA) has confirmed the identification of ‘Dikerogammarus villosus’ or the ‘killer shrimp’ as it has become nicknamed in two more locations in the UK; Cardiff Bay and Eglwys Nunydd Reservoir in Port Talbot. The shrimp which is a particularly aggressive
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predator preying on a range of invertebrates, particularly native shrimps and young fish and can wipe out entire populations and damage ecosystems, was discovered at Grafham Water earlier this year and the RYA has been encouraging boaters to do everything they can to minimise the spread of these voracious invasive predators. “Harmless to humans, the killer shrimp can be spread around the country in a number of ways including on the hulls of our boats and associated kit and given that it has now appeared in Wales it is really important that we boaters do our bit to limit any further spread around the country”, commented Caroline Price, RYA Planning and Environmental Advisor. The RYA has produced guidance on how to minimise the spread of non-native invasive species
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and urges all clubs and individual boaters to follow this advice and remain vigilant to the risk of spread. More information on the killer shrimp can be found at the Non Native Species Secretariat at the Department for Food and Rural Affairs.
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NEWS
MORE THAN HALF OF BRITAIN’S DRIVERS HAVE HAD SEX IN A CAR It’s an unusual way to burn off the Christmas turkey, but 54% of us admit to having had sex in a car, according to research* by Autoquake.com, the UK’s leading online car retailer. In spite of being cramped and the risk of getting caught, 22% say sex on four wheels is a fantastic experience. However, 32% think sex in a car is overrated. Those who have never had car sex are evenly split between thinking a bunk-up on the back seat is something they’d like to try and those who think it’s just plain wrong. There’s a clear split between the genders. Almost one-in-three men (28%) say sex in a car is fantastic. Just 18% of women feel the same way. While 31% of women think car sex is wrong just 11% of men agree. Autoquake’s research uncovered a generational divide, too, but not the one you might expect. While only 13% of 18-24 year olds have tried sex in a car and really enjoyed it, 39% of over 55s say car sex is fantastic. Of all the age groups surveyed, old-timers are least like to find the idea objectionable – just 11% of over 55s said sex in a car was wrong. Autoquake’s CEO, Dermot Halpin, said: “We’re surprised that so many of drivers have used their cars as mobile bedrooms, and impressed that the older generation are leading the way.” Halpin had this advice for anyone considering sex on four wheels: “If you are thinking of having sex in a car this festive season, don’t forget to leave the heating on.”
APPOINTMENT AT KARPAZ GATE MARINA AS DEVELOPMENT NEARS COMPLETION Karpaz Gate Marina, an exclusive new development that will open up the stunning, undiscovered Karpaz peninsula of Northern Cyprus to the international yachting community, have appointed an Office Manager as the build of the marina and marina buildings near completion. Italian-born Cristiana Santoiemma, 36, who is fluent in several languages, will be managing the marina office, welcoming all the marina clientele, while also assisting the marina’s Harbour Master. Utilising her broad, international experience she will also be involved in the recruitment of marina staff, secretarial work, client relations, and establishing office methods and regulations. Cristiana started her career in the aviation and travel industry, later working in a variety of marine and travel-related roles within international companies including as a Port Agent Assistant for an international yacht agency. She also has a degree in Foreign Languages and Literatures, achieved at the University of Bari. Karpaz Gate Marina is set to open in May 2011. www.karpazbay.com
AMPAIR TREBLES IN SIZE AMPAIR, THE WORLD RENOWNED MANUFACTURER of wind and water powered generators, has just completed a comprehensive expansion programme. This includes enlarging the work force to 16 and moving to ten times larger new premises in Millborn St Andrews, Dorset, giving them scope for considerable extra growth in the future. The new facility now also includes on-site, specially equipped testing and simulation areas. In addition to four dedicated, specialist engineers, the new team includes several more technicians to work on the new production lines, warehouse manager and extra customer support staff with the ability to speak several languages in addition to English. Ampair machines have always been the generators of choice for serious and long distance sailors. The company has focused on producing tough, rugged and quiet machines which are designed to survive in the harshest of marine environments. This is probably why many more of the company’s orders are now coming in from navigation authorities, remote monitoring stations and exploration teams. The current wind driven machines now have blades manufactured by a new process from a new material, making them stronger, more durable and more flexible. They also feature control electronics which are now more sophisticated and adaptable. The 2011 catalogue has just been released and this features all of the new products now available from the company, including details of the latest 6kw, land based turbine, ideal for serious remote power generation and for direct grid connection if feasible.
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VERITAIS AWARDED AV CONTRACT FOR 46M YACHT DESIGNED BY DAVID WRIGHT DESIGN Veritais has been awarded the contract for the supply, installation, commissioning and support for the audio-visual systems on board a 46m yacht designed by David Wright Design which is to be launched in August 2011. The award follows an eighteen-month period of design and consultation that ensured that the system completely fulfilled the client’s needs and expectations. The project is based around a Lantic Entertainment System featuring a 4 terabyte Raid 5 centralised media server, satellite TV distribution, internet and email access, audiophile components, full HD TVs and monitors, CCTV systems and cabling infrastructure. Veritais will begin shipping the preliminary components over the next few weeks and project completion is due in June of this year with the boat being launched in Turkey during August 2011.
NEWS
NEW DELUXE iPOD DOCK WITH INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER Marine AV, Europe’s number one supplier of high quality audio-visual systems for boats, is now stocking the iBoat range of deluxe, stylish iPod / iPhone docks. Incredibly stylish compared with most other iPod docks on the market the iBoat comes with a built-in amplifier for direct loudspeaker connection, and auxiliary inputs and outputs to enable the connection of other audio sources and output to additional amplifiers for system expansion. Designed for internal use these high quality iPod docks look and sound great and are available in black, chrome and white. FEATURES • Auto power on/off • iPod® and iPhone® recharge capability • 1 AUX input • 1 AUX output • Reverse polarity and overload protection circuitry • Front LED lights for volume and balance indicators • MultiÐroom mode • iPod ® adapter cup included The iBoat has a recommended retail price of £299.95.
PEUGEOT’S EX1 ELECTRIC CAR BREAKS MORE RECORDS IN CHINA Peugeot’s all electric EX1 Concept car has already set several records in France in September and now has continued its record breaking streak by setting more records in China. The Chinese city of Chengdu was the location for the car to break its own previous records set back in September at Montlhery, France. Driven by China’s most popular blogger among the country’s urban youth, Han Han, the EX1 smashed the previous 1/8 mile and ¼ mile records set in September, with times of 7.08.62 and 12.67.54 seconds respectively. Both of the record times have been certified and will be approved by the Chinese Auto Sports Federation
which validates the quality and accuracy of the measurements made. The EX1’s previous record breaking driver, Nicolas Vanier, was also in China and he achieved another unofficial record for 0 to 100 km/h, in 3.49 seconds. He also demonstrated the incredible power and acceleration of the EX1 by recording longitudinal acceleration of 1G, over a total sprint of 39 metres. This series of records represents a world benchmark in terms of acceleration for an electric vehicle and testifies to the advanced, high-tech know-how of Peugeot when it comes to alternative propulsion vehicles.
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NEWS
New bOATS
World of Powerboats brings you the lowdown on the latest marine launches KONGSBERG MARITIME ESTABLISHES NEW COMPANY IN DUBAI New service, support and after sales company for the GCC region. Kongsberg Maritime is pleased to announce the opening of a new Kongsberg Maritime company based in Dubai. Kongsberg Maritime Middle East DMCCO is a Dubai Maritime City Freezone company, with offices in Dubai Investment Park, Falcon House. The new company, which is a joint venture and part owned by long term Kongsberg Maritime partner in the Middle East, Unique Systems, started operation June 2010, with an official opening ceremony to follow on 30th June 2010. Kongsberg Maritime Middle East is a service, support and after sales company, established primarily for supporting vessels and yards in
bAvARIA SpORT 43 Since 1978, bavaria has built more than 30,000 yachts and the company are as committed as ever to creating some of the most exciting yachts and motor boats. 60% of all their production is sailing yachts, 40% are motorboats and 85% of all craft are exported. Bavaria has worked with some of the best design studios worldwide, ranking from top performance racing design team Farr Yacht Design and the global design consultancy, BMW Group DesignworksUSA, a subsidiary of the BMW Group. The new 43-foot motorboat from BAVARIA will be presented at the ´boot´ 2011 in Düsseldorf. The Hardtop, with its large window area on the sides, is technically as well as functionally matured from its little sister, the SPORT HT 38. The large sunroof can be opened with an integrated easy-going manual Soft top although
an electrically operated opening system is available. Thanks to the low rim in combination with the optional fold-out pedestal, the driver can look outside the windscreen whilst driving without any obstructions. The front screen (incl. cockpit) can be heated as well as both side windows. The self-supporting GFK-construction without stainless steel support compliments perfectly the modern design elements of the new SPORT Series. The SPORT 43 in standard mode is fitted with 2 x Volvo Penta D6-370 EVC with 272 kW (370 PS) The Prices ex. works · Base price SPORT 43 OPEN EUR 239.900 excl. VAT · Base price SPORT HT 43 EUR 259.900 excl. VAT The customer has the difficult choice between the Open and Hardtop – taking into consideration the low price difference as well as the minimum weight change from Open to Hardtop.
technical details Ce-category: B B Length overall: 13.83 m 13.83 m Length hull: 13.22 m 13.22 m beam overall: 4.41 m 4.41 m Height above water: 3.35 m 3.33 m Total height: 4.08 m 4.06 m Draught, drive raised: 0.75 m 0.75 m Draught, drive lowered: 1.10 m 1.10 m unloaden weight: 11,750 kg 11.950 kg Fuel tank: 1,500 l 1,500 l water tank: 410 l 410 l people: 12 12 Cabins: 2/3 2/3 berths: 4/6 4/6 Height in salon: 2.10 m 2.10 m waterline: 11.22 m 11.22 m
NORDIC STAR FROM CHINA THe NORDIC STAR 32 CRuISeR IS pRODuCeD IN SHANgHAI, CHINA which makes it a rare species as that nation is not renowned for sports cruisers. However the retro-style Nordic Star 32 offers excellent value for money and the quality cannot be questioned. The 32 is built using e-glass fabrics and polyester resin with a solid e-glass hull and composite e-glass and PVC foam cored topsides and deck. Teak is used extensivally thoughout cockpit and interior. Power comes from a 315hp Yanmar diesel through V drive and flexible Centra coupling.
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ACTIV THE ACTIV RANGE OF SMALL OPEN BOATS AND CRUISERS are the ideal starter pack right from the Activ 555 Open, a great all-rounder up to the 640 Cabin, the perfect boat for days with family and friends. Founded on experience, considered development and insight gained through solid research into the needs and desires of boat users resulted in a range of boats that offers you true freedom with the reassurance of structural and engineering integrity. Everything underpinned by safety, comfort and versatility. So you can fish, water ski, or just soak up the sun with complete peace of mind. There is no such thing as a cheap and cheerful package nowadays as, after purchasing the boat, the price of the engine and trailer piles on the pounds. But in terms of value for money in the quest for getting afloat, the Activ is the answer.
FAIRLINE GRAN TURISIMO 50 THE BRAND NEW FAIRLINE TARGA 50 IS A STUNNER. Although a fast sports cruiser, the Gran Turisimo’s accommodation is both light and airy thanks to panoramic windows in the deck saloon. Judging from the hordes of people waiting for a tour of Fairline’s latest creation this craft will no doubt play a big part in the companies future. We understand Fairline has a bulging order book and the Targa together with the new Squadron 56 will ensure this long established British boatbuilder thrives.
THE £17MILLION YACHT THAT COMES WITH IT’S OWN SUPERCAR This ultimate buy one-get-one-free offer has recently gone on the market attracting attention from all over the world. Double trouble: The incredible 122 ft. superyacht comes with its own supercar. But even if you could afford to buy; the company are only making six models and has already attracted five buyers. The luxury yacht possesses a luxurious Art Deco interior, boasts four large, double state rooms, a reception area, salon, 52’
LED TVs and state-of-the art sound systems in every room - all of which can be personalized. And you will never be short of thrills as the ship can reach top speeds of 43 knots, with its twin MTU 16V000 engine, with the ability to achieve 55 knots with its optional Rolls Royce KaMeWa boosters offering a staggering 14,000 hp. But not to be outdone, the super car, which is powered by a 880 hp twin turbo V12 engine, has a top speed of 375 kmh.
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TulleTT Prebon london InTernaTIonal boaT Show
PREPARING FOR SUMMER ON THE WATER
ANOTHER yEAR, ANOTHER bOAT SHOW, ANd, AlTHOUGH THE SNOW HAd clEAREd, THE WEATHER WAS WET WITH cOld WINdS dRIvING vISITORS INTO THE WARMTH OF THE 2011 TUllET PREbON lONdON INTERNATIONAl bOAT SHOW ATTEMPTING TO REkINdlE ENTHUSIASM FOR SOME NAUTIcAl AcTIvITIES IN THE WARMER MONTHS AHEAd.
WORdS: dAvId SEWEll IMAGES: cHRIS dAvIES, lUkE SMITH, cOlIN HAllIdAy
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r
egulars to the London maritime extravaganza have often commented that they missed the pool which was always the central attraction at the show’s old venue at Earls Court. Well, this year’s show featured a new superb 70 metre x 25 metre water sports pool situated just inside the new entrance at the east end of Excel which was certainly put to good use. Throughout the duration of the show a variety of water sports were demonstrated, even windsurfing was achieved thanks to a row of giant fans placed at one end of the pool. Waterski jumping demonstrations were also part of the programme, and a seated grandstand area overlooking the water provided a welcome respite for weary feet. A ‘first’ for this year’s show was the Princess 32M, billed as the largest craft ever to be exhibited inside the show. This magnificent triple-decker arrived at Excel under its own steam from the
TulleTT Prebon london InTernaTIonal boaT Show
Magnificent Princess M32
Paparazzi wait for X Factor’s Rebecca Ferguson to appear
Princess factory in Plymouth, and was craned out of the Thames and carefully manoeuvred into Excel by trailer. This M class super yacht is Princess’s first model that exceeds 100 feet. We had to venture outside to see another ‘first’ - Sunseeker’s 130 footer is the largest craft ever displayed at a London Show, although it had already been introduced at the 2010 Southampton show, and Sunseeker’s London debutante, the Predator 115, was moored alongside. I will go into more detail on this model later. Was it my imagination or was this year’s event considerably smaller than in previous years? Maybe the ‘grass shoots’ of growth following the dire economic climate are not growing as fast as we had hoped. The layout of Excel was simple enough to follow - on either side of the central walkway were the display areas, and this year all the boats, both power and sail, were in one hall whilst engines, electronics, holidays, accessories and novelty acts were in the other hall. As usual organisers and exhibitors alike recruited various celebrities to perform duties on the press preview day with ‘action girl’ Jodie Kidd having the honour of cutting the official opening ribbon; ITV’s X Factor singer Rebecca Ferguson sang two songs at the unveiling of Sunseeker’s new Manhattan 73, and violinist Sarah Tuke played on the flybridge of the Princess 32M. Fairline unveiled two newcomers in the shape of the 50 Gran Turismo and Squadron 50, while Sealine revealed plans for their new SC42. As usual there was the ‘great’, the ‘good’, the ‘bad’ and the ‘ugly’, and as usual the rubberised folding dinghy won the ugly award. Nothing really won the bad award, although there were a few boats that did not appear to have a purpose. The Elektra Concept from PBW Marine is a superb example of quality workmanship. Powered by lithium powered electric drive,
The menacing Hunton was chosen to unveil the Cowes-Monte Carlo race
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TulleTT Prebon london InTernaTIonal boaT Show
it looks like it is ultra fast, but its very fine entry hull would suggest it does not plane as there is no lift, and that would also indicate it would be very wet in choppy waters. The Elektra is obviously designed for cruising on rivers, lakes and inland coastal waters. The good nomination would almost certainly get my ‘boat of the show’ award, although as editor of a powerboat magazine it might not seem an obvious choice. The Trident T23 is a traditional hull with accommodation for three. It’s powered by a Yanmar 55hp and boasts an inside and outside helm. The cockpit is spacious, as is the interior, and this chunky little cruiser looks like it can handle all weathers - furthermore it looks pretty. My second favourite was Beneteau’s Swift 44 foot Trawler Yacht., a craft we hope to test some time in 2011. Again, it’s a craft that looks workmanlike but retains a high degree of luxury. I’ll leave the great until later. Hunton have re-branded their logo, but their products remain the same. The menacing looking Hunton 43 with its metallic black hull looks fast and retains the low, sleek profile that has heralded this company as a prolific builder of quality highperformers. The Hunton stand was also chosen to launch a new marathon powerboat race, the Cowes-Monte Carlo, last run in 1972. Mike Lloyd who was responsible for the 2008 Round Britain race, is behind the project, and assuming sponsorship can be raised the 2400 mile jaunt will start off Cowes in 2013. With the number of boating accidents increasing each season, it’s imperative that safety is dealt with at the highest level, and it does not get much higher than the Royal Yachting Association who are intent on improving standards of training. The RYA unveiled a new website at the show that should be a godsend for those folk who want to obtain boating qualifications but do not
WOP Editor admires the owners stateroom of the Sunseeker Predator 115
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have the time to attend schools. The new programme provides training via website in the comfort of your own home or office, where you can devote as much or as little time on the course as is required, but the end result is a certificate of qualification…. providing you have done your homework. I said that I would leave the ‘great’ until last, and my choice is the Sunseeker Predator 115. I was given a conducted tour around the craft and I would have to agree with my tour guide, David Read, that this model is probably the best craft the company has ever produced. Everything about the vessel feels right, from the vast deck saloon with a huge dining area for entertaining up to eight guests in supreme comfort, and on the same level a galley with facilities for fine dining preparation, to the after deck where there is the ultimate area to relax complete with bar. Below decks the Predator 115 boasts an owners’ stateroom fit for royalty, while three double guest rooms will make friends and family feel they don’t want to leave the ship. Even the crew’s quarters are of a luxurious standard, and the wheelhouse which houses the latest navigational gizmos, is also a haven of comfort with a sumptuous settee and panoramic views. The upper flybridge deck has a Jacuzzi and enough space for a bumper party. Like most Sunseeker super yachts the 115 is destined for distance shores, and in the case of this show boat, China. The 2011 show might have been smaller than usual but the products on display oozed quality and we can only hope, when times become more stable, both halls will be full of boats.
TulleTT Prebon london InTernaTIonal boaT Show
Fairline’s new Gran Turisimo 50
RYA’s interactive training programme demonstration
Watersports pool
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life of a red jet captain
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A RED JET CAPTAIN
HOw mANY PEOPLE CAN HONEsTLY sAY, AFTER 24 YEARs IN THE jOb, “I ENjOY IT As muCH TODAY As I DID ON THE DAY I sTARTED?” THOsE ARE THE wORDs OF sENIOR COmmANDER HOwARD RAY, mAsTER OF THE RED FuNNEL FAsT CATAmARAN ‘RED jET 3’.
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life of a red jet captain
I
had often thought that to operate a fast ferry over the 11 miles route between Southampton and Cowes and back would be one of those bucket list ambitions much like that of small children who aspire to drive a fire engine one day. But to do that trip umpteen times a day – wouldn’t it just become a tedious monotony after the novelty had worn off? Not according to Commander Howard Ray and his two man crew, Chief Officer Suresh Mason and Cabin Attendant Micheal Rudder. Commander Ray explains “We run a very tight schedule as each trip is 25 minutes with a 5 minute turnaround at each end, there is not enough time to get bored”. Having enjoyed a day in the life of Commander Ray I must confess it’s a lifestyle I could very quickly get used to. Sitting in a very comfortable helmsman seat on the bridge overlooking the ever changing hustle and bustle of Southampton Water, with a dashboard that would not look out of place on an aircraft, giving the master total control of the 32.9 metre aluminium catamaran, seems very appealing. Red Jet 3 was built on the Isle of Wight at Cowes in 1998 and it was not rocket science to work out approximately how many miles it has travelled in its lifetime taking into account refits and lay days. It amounts to a staggering 1.2 million miles. Red Jet carries a full load of 190 passengers all accommodated in aircraft type seats, and power comes from 2 x MTU 12V 396 Series TE 74L 4 stroke direct injection liquid cooled turbocharged intercooled diesels each developing 1,500 Kw at 2,000 rpm. Amazingly, once these engines are fired up around 5.30 a.m. in readiness for the first crossing at 5.45, the MTUs are not shut down again until the last crossing at around midnight. They are
running continuously even during refuelling which takes place every two/ three hours. It appears weather is not a problem as the Red Jet cats operate in all conditions. However after severe storms the captain has to be especially alert, keeping a keen eye on the waters ahead as it’s not unheard of for large pieces of debris, like tree trunks and branches, to be sucked into the jet units. On one occasion when this happened a chain saw had to be used to remove a large fence post that had got wedged in the jet unit propeller blades. There is no steering wheel on the bridge, just a joy stick electronically connected to the two giant water jets, and Red Jet 3 does not need bow thrusters as the jet units can turn the vessel almost within its own length when departing or arriving at the docking station. As I sat in the First Officers seat a glance at the speedo indicated we were travelling at 37 knots, although as the crossing was so smooth I would never have guessed that speed. It was only when I stepped out through the door at the aft of the wheelhouse that I appreciated Red Jet’s turn of foot as the wind pressure necessitated getting a firm grip of a hand rail. Although obviously summertime traffic is considerably busier when three Red Jets are brought into action, there is a year round surge of commuter passengers first thing in the morning and at evening rush hour when it’s all hands on deck time. Between 10.00am and 4.00pm on weekdays the passenger load is mainly shoppers, business folk and of course day trippers, but obviously there are times when only a handful of passengers use the service such as mid evening crossings during winter. After 24 years service with Red Funnel there must be a few memorable moments that stick in Commander Ray’s
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LIFE OF A RED JET CAPTAIN
mind when all did not go to plan. “There have been a few, but one incident I can recall vividly. Red Funnel used to operate Hydrofoils on the service between Southampton and Cowes. These craft could travel at around 36 knots, and one day as we were bowling along at full speed when a foil broke adrift and the vessel nose-dived causing a solid wall of water to come over the bow. It was a bit of a shock, but when we came to a standstill the main hull was not damaged and we continued on our way to Cowes. Another time we were underway on full power when a loud bang indicated all was not well in the engine room. We discovered a major fault in the gearbox and we were unable to engage forward gear. I had to travel almost 5 miles back to Southampton in astern which took a considerable time.” Incidentally Red Funnel’s two Hydrofoils were sold to Thailand and the new owners removed all the seats and fitted extra fuel tanks to deliver the craft to their new home by water. One of the vessels was destroyed in Thailand’s Tsunami. With the ever constant activity of huge commercial craft departing and arriving in Southampton, along with the new wave of awesome cruise liners, and some of the container ships that arrive are so large, I often wonder if the designer will ever reach a limit as to how big a vessel can get. Perhaps one of the most poignant moments in recent times was when the Cunard liner QE2 was making its final voyage. As it reached the point
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where Southampton Waters meet the Solent, this gracious ship ran firmly aground and it took a considerable time to refloat her. Probably the only time of the year when you have to be extra vigilant around the Solent and Southampton waters is during Cowes Week. The famous Round the Island race is when the Solent is a blanket of yachts as the competition attracts thousands of sailors. For a while we have to weave our way through the pack, but at least we know that they are all heading west. However, during the week courses are laid out all over the place and, as power has to give way to sail, it can be a little frustrating when you see yachts heading in all directions and we have to pass safely between them. Red Funnel Ferries has two other fast catamarans. Red Jet 3 was built in Cowes and 5 built in the USA while Red Jet 4 is the largest carrying over 275 passengers. It was commissioned by Red Funnel and built in Tasmania in 2003. This was the vessel used as the start boat for the 50th Cowes – Torquay race in 2010. The winner of the first Cowes – Torquay race back in 1961, Tommy Sopwith, had to be held down by two men as he raised the flag for the start of the 2010 race before the wind took him off his feet. I’d like to thank Commander Ray and his crew for their hospitality during my time aboard the Red Jet 3, and their part in fulfilling a long standing ambition.
TM
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country focus boatbuilding in uaE
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES BOATBUILDING INDUSTRY 24 wo rld o f p o w erboats
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boatbuilding in uae country focus
S
everal years ago, I visited a boatyard on the outskirts of the city of Abu Dhabi. I could not believe that a yard like it still existed. On the shoreline is a dusty open yard at least three large craft were being built, two 35 metre Dhows and a 50 metre cargo carrying Dhow. It appeared the only electrically operated tool was a huge circular saw and all the hand tools were operated by hand. i.e a drill was rolled between the palm of the craftsman hands. The timber they were constructing the vessels was with teak and the workmanship was nothing short of meticulous. In the storage area of the yard was a collection of Dhows built by this yard and two of the timber craft had Arneson drives fitted. When in Abu Dhabi in December, I asked if we could visit the yard again only to be told there were now two 30 storey hotels on the site and no-one had any idea where the yard had been relocated. While I’m not familiar with the boatbuilding industry in places like India or Malaysia, I’m sure the UAE is one of the few countries in the world that produce the most state of the art composite commercial and pleasure craft and traditional timber workboats and racing sailing Dhows.
As you will see elsewhere in this edition, we tested a sports boat from the factory of Emotion Ltd, based in Abu Dhabi. This company is relativally new but UAE largest producer of motorboats is Gulf Craft which was founded in 1982. Their huge shipyard is in one of the smaller Emirate Ajman which borders on Sharjah. The first boat to leave their 18,000 sq.ft facility in Adjman, was a modest 14 foot GRP runabout built for the local market and within five years the range of boats leaving the Gulf Craft unit was expanding rapidly. During the mid-1980s offshore powerboat racing was becoming popular in the Middle East and during the 80s Gulf Craft boat had won races in Dubai, the mecca of UAE offshore racing. A decade after the launch of the company, the Adora 53 was launched and in the same year, Gulf Craft won a European Award in Spain for quality. In 2000, Gulf Craft established a new 100,000 sq.ft facility in the Maldives and a year later, the Umm Al Quwain factory was completed and is Gulf Craft’s largest site, which includes a 150 ton travel lift and launch bay. 2001 marked a milestone in the companies history when the 118 ft Millenium was launched by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktourm, President of Dubai Civil Aviation. During 2003 Majesty Yachts were launched in an ambitious drive to develop the region’s first full line-up of luxury yachts to compete with the leading international manufacturers. Majesty launched their first 130 footer, the largest built in the region. To assist builders of Superyachts in the region, a new set of yacht codes in the UAE was introduced last July that will help local builders compete internationally. The 168-page UAE Yacht Regulations will impact non-commercial vessels that are more than 24m in length. “The current codes and regulations for the larger yachts are based on conventional steel ship technology which imposes strong limitations on the innovative and future orientated yacht industry,” the UAE National Transport Authority said in a memorandum. “Accordingly the present statutory regime for certification of commercial yachts is not considered to be an appropriate long-term solution for the non-commercial segment of the yacht industry which builds private yachts not intended for the leasing market.” The authority said that the new regulations would remove restrictions as to the number of people on board as well as the maximum size of the vessel. A local newspaper said that it would allow UAE superyacht manufacturers which do not
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country focus boatbuilding in uaE
already conform to other international standards “to perform well” in the export market. “The UAE National Transport Authority trusts that these regulations will be recognised by any flag and port state as adequate safety and environmental standard for yachts above 24m as these regulations provide equivalent safety to existing IMO (International Maritime Organisation) instruments, including all mandatory international regulations applicable to yachts and are developed based on functional requirements to accommodate the innovative and future oriented yacht industry,” Nasser Al Sha’ali, CEO of Gulf Craft, told the paper that the UAE’s marine industry welcomes the measures. He also said it was “welcome news” for Gulf Craft, which builds 18 yachts over 100ft. Two out of three are shipped outside the UAE. “We are already MCA compliant [Maritime Coast Guard Agency] so we’re already compliant with these regulations but they will help the industry overall,” said Al Sha’ali. He said the new regulations, which will be phased in gradually, will help UAE “carve out a niche” in the global market. “They will add to the safety of the maritime community and bring us up to par with other international societies that already have these rules in place”. Larger yachts are increasingly being custom-built based on individual designs. The segment of yachts larger than 40m is predominantly
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individually built to the owner’s design and specification. The 100 largest yachts in the world today are from 65m-165m, with known projects exceeding 200m in length,” the authority said in the memorandum. “These yachts exceed the maximum 3,000 GT size in presently available regulations for commercial yachts and also carry more than 12 persons/guests in addition to the crew, which is the limit for formal certification as a cargo ship with equivalencies in accordance with SOLAS [International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea.]” The new regulations would allow UAE builders to build larger vessels that are free from these restrictions. Victory, the Dubai based builders of racing catamarans, have in the last decade become market leaders in composite construction and the products have won countless National and World championships. Their Class 1 catamarans have certainly placed them on the global stage but Victory have long been building commercial boats in the Dubai factory, constructed to the same high standards as their race boats. Whether they branch out into the luxury Superyacht market is unlikely but if other Emirates start making inroads into that region, I’m sure Victory will consider it. Although major names from Europe and the UAE see the Middle East as a lucrative market for their products, they face stiff opposition from local builders. It’s ironic that in my early visits to the UAE, the only imports that were seen were Bayliner who had stolen a head start on the opposition.
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ROUND-UP: MARINAS
WHO INVENTED WHO DID INVENT THE MARINA? AFTER CONSIDERABLE RESEARCH, I’M NONE THE WISER, EXCEPT THAT WE SUSPECT IT WAS PROBABLY AN AMERICAN. RUMOUR HAS IT THE FIRST MARINA IN THE UK WAS AT COWES, ISLE OF WIGHT, DEVELOPED WHEN THE ROYAL YACHT SQUADRON WAS HOSTING THE FIRST AMERICA’S CUP.
T
he very deep draft of the yachts taking part inspired the innovative idea of having pontoons strung together in deeper water off the waterfront with a gangway leading to shore, so maybe that was the first marina. In my formative years, the marina as we know it today was just a pipe dream and the choices available to boat owners were either a swinging mooring or double and often treble berthing alongside a quay. My home port of Poole used to hold the accolade of second largest harbour in the world, and yet in
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the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s it provided very few facilities for boating folk. However Poole, like many coastal towns and cities around the UK, certainly responded swiftly to the growing popularity of pleasure boating, and Poole today boasts no less than eleven marina complexes - twelve, if you include the one situated on the Wareham River. While three or four of these are for the exclusive use of club members or private residences, the others are available to all, providing you can afford the fee! The latest Town Quay marina caused more than a few ripples after it was completed as when after the Harbour Commissioners had pleaded at the
ROUND-UP: MARINAS
Ocean Village, Southampton MDL
THE MARINA? planning stage that it would be made available to local folk at a reasonable fee. This was also the case in the town twin port of Cherbourg, within a short space of time the fees of the Town Quay marina rising to such a degree, they became only affordable to the wealthy. So why are marinas so expensive? It seems the location of the marina has a huge bearing on the mooring fees because they are generally sited on valuable prime coastal land which is conveniently accessed, near to cruising waters and within striking distance of good beaches. A berth in a popular marina on the Hamble River of Southampton, and other busy south coast resorts like Torquay, Poole and maybe Cowes is going to be infinitely more expensive than in some lesser populated, further afield parts of Wales, Scotland and the East coast. Indeed despite their high fees there is often a waiting list for a berth in a popular south coast marina even in a recession. Whilst many marinas are owned by large companies who operate several sites and therefore their prices are very consistant, there is a vast
Cobbs Quay MDL
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round-up: marinas
Penton Hook MDL
difference in prices between various sites on the South Coast that are seen as 5 star marinas, who can charge almost £1,000 per metre, whereas in the North East of the UK a marina berth can be as low as £240 per metre. If I recall, the first marina in Poole was developed from the boat yard Cobb’s which used to be operated by the Cobb brothers. Now called Cobb’s Quay and operated by the UK’s largest marina owner MDL, Cobb’s has gone from strength to strength, and as space afloat became scarce they established another American invention - the racking system - which, whilst alleviating the problem of lack of moorings, is still very expensive. During the winter of 1971, one of the most ambition marina projects in Britain got underway in Brighton. Planners gave permission to build a marina complex jutting out from the shore into the English Channel. It was a mammoth task as the breakwater was constructed of 600 ton blocks of concrete linked together. Years passed as the breakwater gradually took shape and finally in 1978 H.M. Queen Elizabeth declared Brighton Marina officially open. The original developers went into liquidation and the site was purchased by former boxer George Walker who invested heavily with a superstore, flats, and many elaborate facilities. Today the marina is the largest in Europe with 1400 berths. However boaters moored in the protected inner harbour can face a daunting task when putting to sea as in strong winds,
Hythe Village MDL
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they face the full force of the English Channel. Hythe Village Marina was the first marina development of its kind, combining a berth for your boat and a waterside property on the western shore of Southampton Water and it opened up possibilities for rundown docksides all over Britain. Hythe Village, which recently marked its 25th anniversary with a weekend of music, food and celebration, was described during its construction in the early 1980s as ‘the most imaginative housing scheme in Britain today’ and was based on a marina in France that the developer Dean & Dyball visited. The development of a series of islands, linked by bridges and surrounded by canals and waterways, was constructed on 40 acres of reclaimed land north of Hythe Pier, and when the first few properties went on the market in 1985, they sold for an average of £100,000. Hythe Marina Village now includes more than 200 berths and 220 waterside homes, with many residents keeping a boat on the berth connected to their house. If Hythe Village Marina and many other old dock developments, especially those on the Thames, have any drawbacks it is that because the waters are tidal lock gates are required for access. Waiting in a queue to ‘escape to the open waters’ does occupy valuable cruising time especially during busy periods. Until last year I had never paid much attention to the boating fraternity on the Thames, but after spending a few days around the Chertsey area I had a chance to study the workings of the lock-gate procedure, and I must confess it seemed to be a very time consuming operation requiring more patience than I can muster. With my powerboating background I was also rather bemused to see that some of the boats moored in marinas on that stretch of river are true offshore craft, and wondered where you go with a high speed powerful motor cruiser once you finally get out of the marina. The Thames also boasts one of the biggest inland marinas in the shape of Penton Hook that was created from a redundant quarry. It’s now home to hundreds of craft and on a warm, sunny day the Thames is like the M25 motorway. We have just touched on UK marinas here, but in future issues we will take a look at sites in Europe and the USA, and we will also be talking to Bellingham’s, the world’s largest marina builder.
TESTING PRINCESS V85-S & V78
JEWELS IN PRINCESS CROWN V85-S & V78 ON TEST
P
rincess Yachts occupies a special place at the heart of European boatbuilding. As one of Britain’s longest-established luxury boat builders it has always been associated with practical, seaworthy designs, high-quality production, and superb standards
of engineering. With six manufacturing plants across historic Plymouth, Princess has just established a new production facility for their new M Class range in the city’s Royal Dockyard. Already in operation producing the company’s new 32M and 40M superyachts, there are plans in place to develop the South Yard site in three phases, making it one of the most advanced yacht construction facilities in the world. With a relentless development programme, an ethos of continuous improvement, and exciting new operations under way on a historic shipyard site, Princess Yachts – a company with a globally respected history of its own – is looking confidently to the future.
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PRINCESS V85-S Completely redesigned and updated, the brand new version of Princess’s dramatic V85 sports yacht stole the limelight on its launch at the 2010 Düsseldorf boat show. Building on the phenomenal success of the largest high performance craft in the Princess range, the V85-S is not only faster but also sleeker, thanks to its new low-profile superstructure and larger, re-shaped main deck windows. The upper deck can now be fitted with an optional helm station for true wind-in-the-hair sports boating. Inside, the saloon layout has been redrafted, with a larger seating area and a new, drop-leaf dining table, plus deeper and more luxurious sofas. Throughout the yacht, the fit-out specification has been significantly upgraded. Mosaic tiles and granite bathroom floors, bespoke Perrin & Rowe basins and superior-grade leathers and upholstery, are all now supplied as standard. Such high-end essentials as teak decks, a remotecontrolled passerelle and a hydraulic stern platform are also part of the standard specification. The garage is big enough for both a jet ski and a 4 metre RIB tender.
PRINCESS V85-S V78 TESTING
Magnificent V85
Down below, the V85-S features an expansive owner’s stateroom that occupies the full beam of the hull, and benefits from a wealth of natural light thanks to four large windows on each side. The spacious VIP suite is sited forward, and of course there are also two generous ensuite twin-berth cabins for guests. Even allowing for these significant design developments, though, perhaps the most important improvement in the V85-S is the option of the new, 2,600 horsepower, M94 MTU engines at the top end of the power range. These phenomenal 16-cylinder motors push the vessel’s performance into the 40-knot realm - a rarefied world where few motor yachts can even follow, let alone keep up.
PRINCESS V85-S Length Overall: 25.91m (85’) Beam: 6.27m (20’ 7”) Draught: 1.81m (5’ 11”) Displacement: 58 tons Fuel capacity: 6,000 l
(1,320gal) Water capacity: 1,205 l (265gal) Max hp: 2 x 2,600hp Speed range: 37-40 knots
V85 boasts a sumptuous deck saloon
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tEStINg princess V85-s & V78
The V85 Master Stateroom
PRINCESS V78 Unveiled to widespread acclaim in Cap d’Antibes in May 2009 the V78 is one of the most dynamically capable models that Princess has conceived. Delivering an intoxicating blend of speed, comfort and pure, unadulterated style, this sports cruiser can really fly. The V78 is the first of the Princess V-class models to benefit from resin infusion moulding - a highly advanced manufacturing system that has shaved some three tones from the weight of the hull, resulting in faster speeds and lower fuel consumption. With its muscular profile and a powerful deep-V hull, the V78 also combines superb seaworthiness and precision control with a genuine long range cruising capability which puts the most exclusive locations within easy reach. On deck, the enormous cockpit boasts everything you need to relax and entertain in the most remote of anchorages, from
a wetbar, cool box and electric barbecue, to a large seating and dining area. The capacious stern garage, located beneath the sunpad, is big enough for an additional tender or jet ski, easily launched and stowed via the hydraulic platform. With its clean, contemporary lines, panoramic windows and sliding sunroof, the V78’s light, spacious saloon positively invites the outside in. Triple sliding doors open onto the cockpit creating a superb space for entertaining while giving the feeling of true open boating – albeit the kind that provides shade at the touch of a button. Forward of the saloon, with its hardwood flooring, soft leather sofas and high-spec entertainment system, is a dinette seating eight in comfort, with glorious views. To starboard, the comprehensively equipped two-seat helm station provides optimum visibility for the helmsman. Below, the galley is stylishly fitted to a professional standard and finished in hardwood with a choice of granite or marble worktop. The sleeping accommodation is arranged in four en-suite cabins to achieve new levels of space and light, with the unique reversed layout of the master suite providing a feeling of real exclusivity. The owner enjoys a large en-suite bathroom with twin washbasins and a cavernous shower, together with a walk-in wardrobe, dressing table and chaise longue. Guests are treated to similar levels of luxury in the forward VIP stateroom and two twin berth cabins. There is an ensuite twin crew cabin aft of the machinery space. A go-anywhere performance cruiser that combines unbeatable sports boat handling with the ultimate in relaxed on-board living, the V78 set new standards for a class that is already in a class of its own.
princess V78 Length overall: 78ft 2in (23.83m) Beam: 18ft 6in (5.66m) Draft: 5ft 5in (1.65m) Displacement: (cAT c32 Acert) approx 47.50 tonnes
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Fuel capacity: 1,206 gallons (5,486 litres) Water capacity: 245 gallons (1,112 litres) Max mhp: 2 x 1825mhp Speed range: 36 - 38 knots
princess V85-s V78 testing
V78 under full power
POtteD HistORY OF PRinCess
V78 Superb alround vision in the captain domain
Princess Yachts international plc was originally founded in 1965 as Marine Projects (Plymouth) Ltd to fit out and charter the ‘Project 31’, the first boat to be built at the Company’s original factory facilities in Newport Street, Plymouth. When the boat was subsequently sold, further orders were taken for Project 31s and the idea of fitting out boats for sale was realised. A number of new models followed ranging from 20 to 30 feet which were marketed as ‘Projects’ and ‘Pilgrims’, until the first boat developed using in-house GRP hull mouldings was launched in 1970; the Princess 32. More than 1,200 Princess 32’s were sold over the following ten years, firmly establishing the Princess name in important markets across the globe and creating a lasting association between the Princess brand and timeless, elegant design, impeccable quality and class-leading performance at sea. Princess are now one of Plymouth’s biggest employers and many craftsmen have spent their entire working life at the Devon boatbuilders. It’s interesting to note that many of those 1965 Project 31’s are still in use and we know of two that are currently for sale at twice the original price.
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TESTING EMOCEAN VOO DOO 27
VOODOO THE ULTIMATE SPORTS BOAT!
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EMOCEAN VOO DOO 27 TESTING
I
first came across Voo Doo at the 2009 Abu Dhabi boat show where I took the opportunity to try out the prototype. It showed a great deal of promise, but there were a few ‘rough edges’ to iron out. That early model was fitted with a Mercruiser 5.7 whereas this latest test boat I put through its paces had two Evinrude 225hp outboard motors which seems to have eliminated those initial performance problems resulting in a boat that can truly be described as very desirable. Emocean Marine’s Voo Doo 27 is an open sports boat with enough room for at least eight in comfort at a price that screams ‘value for money’. The build quality of the craft is excellent with top quality stainless steel throughout, and the specification is substantial including items that would normally be on the extra list. Starting at the business end, the bathing platform allows maintenance of the engines to be carried out in comfort, and the 27 also has a placement in the platform for a slide-in fishing rod holder table. Stepping through into the rear cockpit there is adequate seating for four plus locker space underneath
providing ample stowage for fenders etc. Mid-ship the Voo Doo has two pods, skipper to starboard and co-pilot to port, with each position enjoying a sumptuous seat that flips up for those who prefer to stand. The dashboard is basic but provides all the information required to monitor the engines, and the gear/ throttle is comfortably placed on the starboard side. Two small wind deflector screens are fitted on the top of each pod, but I think these just might be more for appearance sake rather than providing any real wind defence. My only criticism in this area is the number of turns on the wheel required from full port to full starboard. At sea it’s not a problem, but berthing requires too much turning of the wheel. The port pod houses a sea toilet and wash basin, whilst in the starboard pod a cool box is installed, but Emocean Marine states that a fridge can be fitted here. A neat walkway between the pods leads into the forward cockpit which again has luxurious seating, and locker space abounds. The Voo Doo features a squarish shape to the forward end of the cockpit maximizing space, and there’s no hauling the anchor out of the locker as
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testing emocean voo doo 27
voo doo 27 Length overall: 27 foot Beam: 2.7m Draft: 52.4 up down
Voo Doo has a built-in anchor forward, a very neat touch. Above the cockpit is a large solid sun shelter that has a cool moisturising spray that is best described as open air air-conditioning – a new one on me. The only drawback I discovered is the spray is inclined to be blown away at speed. Talking about speed, the Voo Doo has an excellent turn of foot. The boat I was aboard had been in the water a while so therefore its under carriage was not clean, nevertheless, on full throttle the speedo recorded 45 mph with ease. The acceleration proved it was up for water skiing which makes the Voo Doo a great allrounder for family cruising, fishing and watersports. After throwing the craft around in tight circles at full throttle albeit in ideal conditions, I stopped and raised one engine. Generally, a twin engine rig is not comfortable on one motor, but the Voo Doo not only climbed onto the plane with the single outboard, it also cruised easily at 26 mph. This is very reassuring when you’re at sea with the family as engine failure is the cruising man’s greatest dread. Obviously the Voo Doo was designed for sunny, warmer climates, but there are hundreds of open sportboats in Europe, so although it’s always preferable to have sun and blue sky for comfortable cruising, the Voo Doo would be equally at home in lumpy sea conditions on a grey day. Incidentally, an inboard version of the Voo Doo was used as the camera boat during our
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Price starts at $45,000 ex tax ex yard
test, and although boasting a little more power there was little difference in terms of top speed. The makers offer the Voo Doo in a variety of colours. Just before we arrived a red hull fitted with twin Mercury outboards was winging its way to the Saudi boat show. Hamad, Emoceans COE insists a red hull is the best colour for fishing but we had no hard evidence of his claims. However the blue and white livery of the test boat was very appealing. If I had been testing Emocean Marine’s Voo Doo 27 in UK waters during December, I might have formed a different opinion of its qualities. However this was not the UK but the blue waters off Abu Dhabi under blue skies and a scorching sun. For me this was a perfect cruising day particularly when we stopped the engine for a while to savour the silence and watch a school of ten dolphins which had joined us and were playfully unperturbed by our presence.
TESTING REVENGER 32 RIB
BORDER ON PERFECTION
WHEN PHIL MORRIS PASSES AWAY, I’M SURE THE WORD REVENGER WILL BE CARVED ON HIS HEADSTONE AS HIS LOVE OF THIS MARQUEE IS UNPRECENDENTED. PHIL LEFT THE HI-TECH ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY TO BECOME SALES MANAGER OF REVENGER BOATS AND FOR THE PAST DECADE HE HAS DEDICATED HIS WORKING LIFE TO MARKETING THESE QUALITY, HIGH PERFORMERS.
H
owever when I got a call to try out their latest creation, Phil was even more enthusiastic than ever as he felt the Revenger 32 RIB powered by twin Mercury 300 Verado poowerpacks was bordering on perfect...’I really think, this is the best we’ve ever built’. After that testimony it was impossible to resist the invitation to try it out. The Revenger 32 RIB is the largest model in their range and unlike some RIB makers who think a cabin is necessary on a
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boat of this size, Revenger prefer to keep it open and the Super Yacht tender market do not require accommodation. The open layout is similar to Revenger’s smaller RIB’s with electrically controlled seats designed specifically for the company. After 30 years of building traditional ‘hard boats’, which established Revenger as one of the market leaders in high performance sports craft with over 100 line honours victories in offshore racing, the company turned their attention to the ever increasing interest in RIB design. In the early 1990s the
REVENGER 32 RIB TESTING
first Revenger RIB made its appearance and it was different as, instead of bulbous tubes, the Revenger sported tapered tubes producing an arrow like profile. It was not long before Revenger RIB’s were scooping up trophies on the RIB racing circuit. Mike Sloggett, owner of Revenger was determined to stick with the underwater running surfaces of his successful raceboats that were from the drawing board of design legend Don Shead. However when he heard that arch rival Scorpion were going to mould steps into the hulls of their RIB’s in an effort to beat
Revenger, Slogget pointed out that Revenger would reluctantly adopt the step concept and continue to beat Scorpion. The latest Revenger 32 RIB has two steps either side of the keel and this produces considerably less whetted area than a conventional vee and in turn enhances performance. Revenger also place importance on comfort as well as performance in the 32 and this is no more so than in the helmsman and co-pilots seats. These electrically operated ‘comfort zones’ provide almost total support, particularly for
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testing REVENGER 32 RIB
the back, and as a sufferer of back pain, this was very welcome. The button on the side of the seat allows the operator to adjust the angles etc. to the perfect position and these seats are designed by Revenger themselves. The seats support the polished stainless steel radar arch/overhead mast with its array of navigation lights. The bench seat at the aft end of the rear cockpit has again been designed and built with comfort in mind and even in roughish waters, the seating absorbed much of the impact. Under this seat is ample stowage for fenders and warps etc. Forward of the console is more seating with ideally placed hand holds. This forward part of the craft is the sunbathing area and is divided into two stowage areas. The larger of the two is cavernous with acres of space while the smaller forward locker house the anchor, chain and warp. Both hatch covers are supported by gas ram supports and Revenger have gone to great lengths to ensure the lockers are watertight and they are sealed onto rubber gaskets. The Revenger 32 is offered in two options, twin inboards or twin outboards but I’m sure the company would willing supply a single engined 32 if requested. Not surprisingly, the inboard version is heavier and sits lower in the water. The model with two Mercury 300 Optimax outboards sits with just the aft end of the tubes in the water. The console in both models is the same and this has been redesigned to accommodate the new Garmin GPS map 7015 chart plotter which is mounted amidships so driver and navigator have a clear view of its
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readings. The dashboard with engine instrumentation is ahead of the wheel together with switches. After building so many boats, it’s not surprising that Revenger have a very good idea where everything should go including the curved tinted screen topped off by an oval stainless steel surround.. Although the console is low and sleek, it’s still large enough to house a sea toilet and shower unit and there is just enough room for two people to lie down at full stretch. In terms of performance, the outboard version is quicker but the inboard version has recorded speeds in excess of 54 knots powered by twin Yamaha ME422 diesels. The outboard model felt at ease in excess of 60 knots and handled like a dream. It’s easy to see why Phil drools over this boat. The build quality cannot be faulted and as expected, the 32’s performance has resulted from many years development in the rough and tumble world of offshore competition.
REVENGER 32 RIB Length overall: 34 foot 6 inches 10.5m Beam inflated: 9 foot 3 inches 2.8m Draft: 2 foot 6 inches 0.76m Deadrise: 21
Max Power: 630hp I/B 700hp O/B Fuel Capacity: 50 litres Prices from: £130,000 ex vat O/B £145,000 ex. vat I/B
company profile
cOmPanY PrOFile
caudwell marine F
rom the very beginning, Formula One powerboat racing and its predecessor FONDA had only one choice of powerplants, the outboard motor, either Mercury or OMC, and because of their enviable power to weight ratio, they have enjoyed no opposition. However, with the ever increasing demand for greener internal combustion engines to comply with the environmental agency’s guidelines, the need to look at other options has become a matter of urgency for today’s engine manufacturers, and there is emerging a serious contender to Mercury’s monopoly of this market. One company has stolen a head start on rivals, South Africa’s Caudwell Marine, who at a very well staged presentation in the
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United Arab Emirate of Sharjah, unveiled what they hope will be a serious challenger to the Mercury 2.5 racing engine. As it was the final race of the UIM World F1 Championship in Sharjah back in early December, the technical staff of Caudwell Marine had a close-up opportunity to see what a mountain they have to climb in order to make their Caudwell racing inboard a credible alternative. Caudwell Marine are certainly not new to marine propulsion as they have been producing petrol and diesel packages attached to their own unit sterndrive. I looked at their product range at the 2010 Southampton Boat Show and I have to say, Caudwell stern drives are exceptionally well engineered. However, stern drive packages for the leisure industry are a completely different unit to
company profile
what is required for the competitive racing engine. The Caudwell racing inboard is based on a Nissan 3.5 litre naturally aspirated V6 engine coupled to a racing styled Caudwell Axis drive. The unit was installed in a vintage DAC two-seater F1 catamaran and first impressions of it were very favourable. The engine drive package is very compact and well made with several quite unique features. The steering and trim system is, believe it or not, almost impossible to describe‌it has to be seen! Needless to say, it operates well despite being the prototype. Unlike the outboards fitted to F1 cats that start a race in a dead engine situation, the Caudwell requires the engine to be running, before the green flag is raised so that when the driver hits the throttle a centrifugal clutch and launch control ensures the boat
accelerates smoothly away from the grid. However, in tests this system needs more development as the Caudwell’s 0-160kph in over 8 seconds is no match for the Mercury 2.5’s 0-160kph in 5 seconds, although one has to remember the extra weight of a twoseater cat will make a difference. There is one aspect of the Caudwell that wins hands down in my book anyway, the exhilarating sound of the twin exhausts producing a potent roar as the cat stormed around the circuit in Khalid Lagoon. In a straight line on full power the Caudwell is fast, and this prototype has already set a water speed record in South Africa of over 140mph. We understand the pricing structure has still not been established and Caudwell Marine appears keener to lease the
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company profile
engines rather than selling direct. I was interested to know who was behind this new venture, as it will be a very brave man to take on market leaders Mercury when it comes to powerboat racing. That heroic person is John Caudwell, and it wasn’t until after our chat in Sharjah that I learned John is one of the wealthiest men in the UK after selling his giant mobile phone company ‘Phones 4 U’. However, in his earlier career John had turned his hand to several ventures including a grocery store and selling motor bike parts, neither of which produced vast profits. Throughout his formative life John always had a passion for boats, and his first ‘vessel’ was an inflatable dinghy with a 15hp outboard. After an apprenticeship in the rubbadub, John progressed to a Dawncraft and then a narrowboat followed by a Winner Wildcat with a 145hp engine. Nevertheless, establishing a successful business was becoming a priority and ventures into property, shares and cars started to produce respectable profits.
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In 1987 the ‘big break’ came when John launched ‘Phones 4 U’ and as the company grew so did Mr Caudwell’s choice of boats. A Sunseeker 64 was purchased and John embarked on an RYA weekend course of incompetence (as he referred to it). Next in line was another Sunseeker, this time an 82 before the arrival of a Sunseeker 94. John always insists on doing things the right way, and as he intended to charter the Sunseeker 94 he went on a course and successfully became a Yachtmaster. All of his Sunseekers cruised from the UK to the Mediterranean under the command of Captain Caudwell. John met Mike Beachy Head, his fellow Director in Caudwell Marine, through their mutual interest in aircraft and boats, and it was after many conversations that they decided to launch Caudwell Marine with a view to producing quality enginesterndrive packages. In 2006 ‘Phones 4 U’ was sold and John embarked on one of the most action packed retirements imaginable. The Sunseekers
company profile
made way for a magnificent 68m Lursson, after upgrading from a smaller Lursson 58m. In his lust for acquiring licences of competence John is also a qualified helicopter pilot and lists among his hobbies collecting any sort of antique and scuba diving. John also places much importance on family and with five children ranging from 6 to 31, Christmas in the Caudwell Staffordshire homestead is a very festive affair. Another passion
close to John’s heart is his charity ‘Caudwell Children’, which occupies a great deal of his time and is a project he thoroughly enjoys and finds most satisfying. Throughout 2011, we will keep readers informed on the progress of the Caudwell racing engine and we are confident that once the offshore ‘boys’ try it out, the market place will open up, providing the package provides value for money.
ThroughouT his formaTive life John always had a passion for boaTs, and his firsT ‘vessel’ was an inflaTable dinghy wiTh a 15hp ouTboard. world of p owe rboat s
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ON THE ROAD REVIEW
HAPPY NEW YEAR SOME OF THE MOTORING HIGHLIGHTS OF 2010
FERRARI 458 ITALIA WINS CAR MAGAZINE “PERFORMANCE CAR OF THE YEAR 2010”
T
he award-winning Ferrari 458 Italia has taken another international prize, winning the coveted title of “Performance Car of the Year 2010” from Car magazine, one of the most respected automotive monthly magazines in the UK. “The 458 Italia is an extraordinary Ferrari and a deserving winner of Car’s Performance Car of the Year award,” said Phil McNamara, Editor of Car magazine. “That one of the fastest, most thrilling and communicative supercars of all time is also one of the easiest to drive day in, day out is a remarkable achievement. Next year’s new McLaren supercar will have to be extraordinarily talented to dislodge the Italia.” Car magazine’s “Performance Car of the Year” test took place over more than 2500 miles in Europe earlier this year, with competitors from eight different brands all competing to win this coveted award. After several grueling days evaluating each car, the Car team decided the Ferrari 458 Italia was more than a match to whatever the magazine or the competition could throw at it. Car magazine’s “Performance Car of the Year” award follows on from a raft of other awards for the 458 Italia including Fifth Gear’s “Fast Car of the Year”, BBC Top Gear Magazine’s “Supercar of the Year” and “Car of the Year”, GQ Magazine’s “Supercar of the Year”, MSN Cars “Car of the Year”, and Auto Express’s “Performance Car of the Year”. The Ferrari 458 Italia was revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2009 to immediate critical acclaim. Following an extensive international media test drive programme in Maranello, the home of the fabled Prancing Horse, the car has been the subject of enthusiastic reviews, with its handling, roadholding, ride comfort and performance all being subject to the kind of superlatives rarely seen from the world’s leading journalists.
CAR MAGAZINE’S PERFORMANCE CAR OF THE YEAR ENTRANTS INCLUDED: Ferrari 458 Italia Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera Porsche 911 GT2 RS right Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Lotus Elise S BMW M3 GTS Subaru Impreza Cosworth STI CS400 Renaultsport Megane 250 Cup
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ON THE ROAD REVIEW
ASTON MARTIN CELEBRATES 2010 – ‘THE YEAR OF THE SPECIALS’ In 2010, Aston Martin celebrated its product line-up demonstrating its ability to react quickly to customer demands and to create tailor-fit sports cars. Aston Martin is agile as a small volume manufacturer and this year has created: V12 Vantage Carbon Black, DBS Carbon Black, DBS UB2010, V8 Vantage N420 and now new DB9 offerings will cater for individual tastes across the world. This attention to individual tailoring began in February when production of the Carbon Black editions began, followed in March with a Works Tailored commission made by Aston Martin to celebrate CEO, Dr. Ulrich Bez’s tenth anniversary at the helm of the marque in creating 40 limited edition UB-2010 DBSs. The unique specification includes metallic leather with a woven leather seat insert. The car bears the signature of Dr. Bez, who is personally signing-off each example. In July, Aston Martin announced the V8 Vantage N420 limited edition; a race inspired version of the V8 Vantage celebrating the marque’s close links with the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife where the development of all Aston Martins takes place, and where each year, multiple Vantage entries compete at the Nürburgring 24 hour race. The new DB9 editions offer three juxtaposed options; the Morning Frost luxury specification gives the DB9 an extra sense of sophistication resplendent in a pearlescent white exterior with a befitting metallic bronze leather interior. In contrast, the two menacing sport specifications take advantage of the special edition Carbon Black paint and Quantum Silver made famous by the DBS featured in the last James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace. The exterior finishes perfectly compliment the Obsidian Black interior along with a highly polished Piano Black centre console and interior door handles. Both the DB9 Carbon Black and Quantum Silver also feature the six-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission, a remapped sports exhaust providing an even more evocative sound when driving spiritedly and unique 19” 10 spoke forged gloss black painted diamond-turned wheels. Black grilles, graphite tail pipes, perforated seat inners, semi-aniline leather roof lining, coarse silver stitching and real polished glass switchgear complete the sport specification. The DB9 Morning Frost also benefits from the Touchtronic II transmission mounted on the transaxle giving the car perfect 50:50 weight balance. 19” 10 spoke silver diamondturned wheels, silver brake calipers, magnum silver grilles, and metallic bronze leather headlining with perforated seat inners along with Piano Black centre console and door grabs create a sophisticated ambiance. The three editions are bestowed with a unique laser etched sill plaque depicting the famous wings insignia along with “Morning Frost”, “Carbon Black” or “Quantum Silver.” These special editions are available to order now from Aston Martin’s global dealership network.
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on the road reVIeW
BRITISH CAR AUCTIONS REVEALS IT’S TOP 10 CARS OF 2010 BRITISH CAR AUCTIONS REVEALS IT’S TOP 10 CARS OF 2010 Leading vehicle auction company, British Car Auctions (BCA) has drawn up its top 10 of unusual vehicles sold during 2010. The company handles an enormous variety of vehicles during the year, with the vast majority being the popular makes and models we all drive from day to day. But with up to 3,000 vehicles being sold every day from its 21 locations, BCA also sees vehicles that are weird, wonderful or just hugely valuable. “This year’s big ticket items were a 2006 Bugatti Veyron, which went for £625,000 and a 2008 Rolls Royce Phantom, which realised £195,500,” says Tim Naylor at BCA. “Both sales created a huge amount of interest with buyers registering from all over the UK and even further a field.” “The most unusual vehicles we sold were a pair of Road Trains, more often seen at beach resorts and other visitor attractions. The New Holland Leisure train sold for £4,900, while the Italian made Dotto Train realised £2,500. BCA also sold a lavishly appointed one-off Mobile Office with 12 workstations based on an Iveco truck for £38,500 – ironically it had been Vehicle Description
notable Features
2006 bugatti Veyron eb 16.4
Just one of 300 Bugatti Veyrons made
used to promote recycling and was being recycled itself!” “We also held a sale of ‘barn find’ classic cars, previously in the hands of one owner from the Margate area and hidden in lock-ups and garages for a number of years. The star of the show was a 1959 Ford Zodiac Convertible which made £6,300 despite being in bits and pieces.” “Charity auctions this year included a pink Smart Car supporting the Royal Marsden Cancer Campaign and the Bangers4BEN sale, which raised £5,350 towards the Motor Industry Benevolent Fund. We also sold a beautifully restored Royal Mail Morris Minor van with all the funds raised going to Barnados.” “BCA also had cars with a showbiz connection. In November, we sold a Honda CR-Z Hybrid Coupe for £18,500, formerly owned by Justin Hawkins, ex-lead singer from The Darkness, while earlier in the year a vintage Ford Cortina 2000GT previously featured on the BBC’s Culture Show was sold.”
hammer price £625,000
rolls-royce phantom drop head coupe Part of a sale that also saw 266 cars sell for £4 million plus. A 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder E Gear 2 also sold strongly, realising £90,000 at 6,000 miles. £195,500 a vintage Ford cortina 2000Gt which starred on the bbc’s culture show One of the very last GTs produced and on a 1976‘R’ plate, the car had been owned by the BBC since 2007 and starred on the BBC’s Culture Show in the summer of that year, visiting a series of famous UK film locations such as Train Spotting, The Wicker Man, Brief Encounter, The Full Monty, 28 Days Later and Gosford Park. £2,200 honda cr-Z hybrid coupé 60 plate Once owned by Justin Hawkins former lead vocalist from the Darkness
£18,500
2010 pink passion smart car Fortwo coupe Sold at auction to help raise money for leading cancer hospital Royal Marsden
£10,500
new holland leisure roadtrain A diesel-powered road train ideal for a fun fair or theme park.
£4,900
bangers4ben sale offered a fur-finished ‘swearing at rabbits’ modified nissan 100 nX The No Reserve Sale raised money for motor trades charity, BEN total raised £5,350 iveco euro cargo modified truck Converted to mobile office/classroom and used to promote recycling.
£38,500
1970 morris minor royal mail Van Pillar box red van auctioned for Barnados. It was used for deliveries in Christchurch, Bournemouth & Poole during its 6 years service £8,000 1959 Ford Zodiac 2.6 convertible Part of a ‘Barn Find’ sale finished in white over blue and sitting on white wall tyres, had remarkably straight bodywork, despite needing all the fittings re-assembling. £6,300
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on the road reVIeW
JAGUAR LAND ROVER 2010 INTERNATIONAL AWARDS SUCCESS Jaguar Land Rover is celebrating a successful 2010 having received more than eighty international awards for its vehicles during the year. The tally of awards was shared almost equally between the two brands. Leading the charge for Land Rover was Discovery 4 with over 28 global awards this year bringing its total to 144 since launch in 2004. Commenting on the awards Land Rover’s Global Brand Director John Edwards said: “The Discovery 4 offers an exceptional breadth of capability. It is now one of the most highly-decorated vehicles ever and we are thrilled that it continues to receive such great recognition across the industry.” Other Land Rover nameplates also had a tremendous year with the Range Rover being voted the ‘Car of the Decade’ by readers of autocar. co.uk, the Range Rover Sport voted ‘Best 4x4’ by Auto Bild (Germany) and the Freelander 2 was voted ‘Best Compact SUV’ at the Auto Express Car of the Year Awards. Jaguar’s new XJ which went on sale earlier this year and got off to a flying start receiving more than 20 international honours including ‘Best Luxury Car’ from China’s Auto News, ‘Annual Limousine King’ from Quattroroute (Italy), ‘Luxury Car of the Year’ from Top Gear (UK), Automobile Magazine’s ‘2011 Design of the Year’ and ‘Best Executive Sedan’ at the Bloomberg Awards (US). And it was not just production cars that caught the eye of the auto industry elite. The C-X75 concept car was named ‘car of the show’ at this year’s Paris Automobile Show. Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director at Jaguar said: “Jaguar embarked on reinvigorating the brand in 2006 and we are delighted that our three all-new Jaguars have been so well received across the world in that time. We have been delighted with the tremendous response from the media to the new XJ, winning more than 20 international awards this year.” The motoring press are not the only collective who have heaped praise
on the company in 2010. JD Power Associates in the U.S. named Jaguar as the leader in customer satisfaction having achieved the highest score in their annual Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) StudySM – The brand also ranked as the highest luxury brand. This followed news from What Car? – Britain’s biggest car buying guide – that Jaguar was named as a leading manufacturer in its owner satisfaction survey. Not only did the XF scoop the title of best executive car on its JD Power debut (UK survey), but the XF finished second overall and helped Jaguar to its position as third out of 27 manufacturers – an improvement of 13 points from 2009. These awards further underpin a successful year for Jaguar Land Rover with earnings for the second quarter of the financial year at £238 million (after tax) and annual sales to November up 20.7% collectively.
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racing round-up
SELIO CLINCHES GOLD AS CANTANDO’S DREAM IS SUNK
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racing round-up
w
hen Singha Beer’s Francesco Cantando arrived in Qatar, he was riding high at the top of the table. Could 2010 be the year he finally fulfilled his dream of becoming world champion. Sadly the answer is no, after he destroyed his boat and his dream within 30 seconds of the start of the GP of Qatar. Team mate Marco Gambi destroyed his boat in Abu Dhabi leaving Singha with all their aspirations in tatters. However, for Jay Price and arch rival Sami Selio, Qatar was just the start of a gripping finale. Qatar Team’s American pilot Price had not enjoyed the best of luck in home waters but this year, in front of his paymaster Sheikh Hassan, all came good as Price led the way from start to finish leaping to the top of the table. Price’s problem was that Doha runner-up was Sami Selio which mean’t it remained very, very close at the top of the table with little room for mistakes. There was hardly time to catch your breath before the containers arrived in Abu Dhabi for the penultimate GP of the season. Cantando had managed to persuade Abu Dhabi team manager Scott Gillman to let him have one of their spare DAC boats to fulfil the last two races while Tim Seebold’s
involvement behind the wheel of SkyDive Dubai had finished. As usual the weather in the UAE’s capital city was glorious but again, the GP was to start late in the afternoon when the sun is low in the sky and shining into the pilot’s face on the long pit straight. It looked like Mad Croc Alex Carrella was going to claim pole position as he was fastest throughout the ten minute session but in a last ditch charge, his team mate Selio clinched that position on his final lap. After Carrella came Price, Ahmed Al Hameli, Jonas Andersson and Thani Al Qamzi who rounded off the top six. When the red lights went out, Selio stormed into the lead chased by Price and these two were locked together for the entire race. Despite two yellow flag situations, those positions remained until the chequered flag. The local fans were jubilant as both their drivers were in the top four although Al Qamzi inherited 3rd place when Al Hameli’s craft broke on the final lap although he was awarded 4th place ahead of the two CTCI Chinese boats of Chiappe and Lundin. Sharjah, UAE was again rewarded with a thriller finale to the season. With Selio’s win, it mean’t he was just 4 points behind Price and it was time to start thinking tactics. The big Khalid Lagoon race circuit is renowned for engine failure so would a breakdown decide the 2010 world championship? As it transpired, it was team tactics that produced such a dramatic conclusion to the season. Abu Dhabi’s Ahmed Al Hameli swept into the lead from the grid with Carrella in hot pursuit. Selio lay in 3rd place with Price just a few metres behind. Price was very aware as long as he finished one place behind Selio, the Mad Croc, he would be crowned world champion. Lap after lap, these positions remained unchanged, although at one stage, Price did make a brief challenge for third place. Had he known what was going to happen, perhaps Price would have attacked harder because as the GP reached the final few laps of the 35 lap GP, Carrella appeared to ease slightly allowing Selio into 2nd place. Despite frantic efforts to overhaul the young Italian, Price was stuck in 4th place and his championship hope had vanished by just one point. Nevertheless nothing could be taken away from 35 year old Sami Selio of Helsinki, Finland. Although a long way off Cappellini’s ten gold medals, the Mad Croc driver has now two crowns under his belt and proven himself a worthy champion. Price accepted defeat in a dignified manner and there is every chance, these two will be facing each other in 2011 and who knows which one will clinch the title. Maybe it’s the turn of Abu Dhabi’s Ahmed Al Hameli as he has proved one of the quickest drivers in F1 but is inclined to be hard on machinery with several costly breakdowns. Will Carrella be challenging for the crown as this was his first F1 season and he has been a revelation. We will have to wait until March 2011 and Doha, Qatar for the opening GP of the year.
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racing round-up
FAZZA ClAiMS gOlD iN uAe w
by Nigel Quilter
ith the European title already in the hands of Victory Team, courtesy of Fazza’s Al Zafeen and Bin Hendi’s double win in Italy, the Class 1 fleet headed to the UAE to close-out the season in the Abu Dhabi and Dubai Grands Prix where the remaining three titles on offer would be decided. As far as the World title was concerned it was simply a case of when Fazza would wrap it up - not if. Welmax looked in control of the Edox Pole Position Championship, but still had some work to do, with all teams looking to put their names on the Middle East role of honour. The fluctuation in driver-throttleman combinations continued; Sandro Sardelli joined Nicola Giorgi in Giorgioffshore in Abu Dhabi but Tomaso Polli was back in, in Dubai. Guido Cappellini reformed his partnership with Giampaolo Montavoci in GSG Ceramic Design, enjoying a forgettable time in Abu Dhabi but turning it on to take a podium in Dubai. Luca Formilli Fendi teamed-up with European Championship runner-up Giovanni Carpitella in Negotiator, whilst Giorgio Manuzzi grabbed his third different ride of the year, this time alongside double World Champion Mohammed Al Marri, in the new Victory design, Victory 2010. For Jorn Tandberg and Kolbjorn Selmer only one thing mattered - the Edox title - and a fourth straight win in qualifying Abu Dhabi would all but give them the title. This they did. Adopting a ‘run Welmax light’ strategy - which they paid for in race 1 pulling out on lap 2 - they cruised home ahead of Fazza to carry a 15-points advantage into the final qualifying session in Dubai. Where, once again they were imperious, and dominated securing a fifth straight win of the season to become the first allNorwegian pairing to lift the [Edox] Pole Position Championship. Fazza’s Al Zafeen and Bin Hendi knew that a win in race 1 in Abu Dhabi would all but hand them their third World title and the team its tenth. But having led from the flag they
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sensationally slowed on the penultimate lap to let in the home favourites, Team Abu Dhabi, to give Rashed Al Tayer and 1997 World and European Champion, John Tomlinson their first win together. Al Marri and Manuzzi grabbed an impressive second spot in Victory 2010 in their first outing together with Negotiator’s Fendi and Carpitella completing the podium ahead of Relekta and Giorgioffshore and the classified - but non finishers - Fazza and Skydive Dubai. If the notoriously rough outside leg of lap 1 did little damage in race 1, it bit back in race 2 with the race red-flagged and three boats sidelined in two separate incidents. Victory 2010 were the first to go, crashing out all by themselves at the first turn, followed moments later by Skydive Dubai’s Abdullah Al Mehairbi and Talib Al Sayed careering into Negotiator taking both outfits out of race 2. The title was now Fazza’s for the taking, and they did, leading from the flag to record their seventh win of the year. Behind the Champions Welmax produced their customary late charge to move up from the back of the pack to steal second place from Paul Gaiser and Christian Zaborowski in Relekta on the last lap after seeing Team Abu Dhabi handed a penalty long lap for missing a buoy, dropping them from second to fourth to finish ahead of Giorgioffshore. The final two races in Dubai would decide the Middle East title and with Fazza leading home Team Abu Dhabi in race 1 to move ahead of their middle east neighbours by one point, the Middle East Championship would go to the wire in the very last race of the yearCappellini and Montavoci’s third place
racing round-up
UIM CLASS 1 WORLD POWERBOAT CHAMPIONSHIP - after race 12 of 12 1. Fazza - 212pts 2. Negotiator - 116pts 3. Skydive Dubai - 110pts 4. GSG Ceramic Design - 95pts 5. Welmax - 91pts 6. Team Abu Dhabi - 62pts 7. Relekta - 54pts 8. GiorgiOffshore - 42pts 9. Skydive 2010 - 28pts 10. Foresti & Suardi - SCAM - 11pts 11. Welmax Alianza - 10pts
celebrations were short-lived with GSG Ceramic design handed a post race penalty lap for failing post-race scrutineering, dropping them to fifth place behind Welmax and Negotiator. In Brazil Kolbjorn Selmer dubbed Fazza the ‘black alliance’ - in Norway Bin Hendi dubbed Welmax ‘the bullet’ - so it was fitting that on the day (11 December) that the sport remembered Mohammad Al Mehairi and Jean-Marc Sanchez - the ‘black alliance’ and the ‘bullet’ produced the race of the season. Team Abu Dhabi’s hopes of Middle East title success ended early when a broken propeller all but curtailed their challenge, leaving Fazza and Welmax to duel it out for race honours with GSG Ceramic design looking to prove a ‘mechanical’ point by grabbing and staying on the podium. Fazza led for all sixteen laps - but it was a titanic struggle - as Welmax loomed large in their mirrors every lap, with Selmer and Tandberg relentlessly throwing Welmax into and out of each corner as they desperately tried but heroically failed by just seconds to overhaul Al Zafeen and Bin Hendi. “That was a great race to win and crowns what has been a wonderful season for everyone in the Victory Team,” said throttleman Bin Hendi. “The whole team has played their part in getting us to the chequered flag and we share the world title with every single one of them.” The Norwegians had given it their all with Selmer admitting it was the best race he had been involved in with Fazza. “We threw the boat around the corners and gave it everything but those guys are just so fast. We won Pole Position, which is great, but next year they [Fazza] know they will have a real fight on
MIDDLE EAST CHAMPIONSHIP - after race 4 of 4 1. Fazza - 65pts 2. Team Abu Dhabi - 49pts 3. Welmax - 42pts 4= Negotiator - 28pts 4= Skydive 2010 - 28pts 6. Relekta - 26pts 7. GSG Ceramic Design - 19pts 8. GiorgiOffshore - 14pts 9. Skydive Dubai - 0pts EDOX POLE POSITION CHAMPIONSHIP - after round 6 of 6 1. Welmax - 115pts 2. Fazza - 95pts 3. Negotiator - 44pts 4. Skydive Dubai - 42pts 5. Team Abu Dhabi - 36pts 6. Relekta 28pts 7. GiorgiOffshore - 22pts 8. GSG Ceramic Design - 19pts 9. Victory 2010 - 13pts 10. Welmax Alianza - 7pts 11. Foresti & Suardi SCAM - 5pts
their hands with us.” Behind the two leaders GSG Ceramic Design’s Guido Cappellini and Giampaolo Montavoci did produce a second impressive performance of the weekend to make it two podiums from six outings together this season. With their closest rivals Talib Al Sayed and Abdullah Al Mehairbi sitting out the final two races of the season after crashing out in Abu Dhabi, Italians Giovanni Carpitella and Luca Fendi secured the four points they needed to claim second spot in the World Championship ahead of Skydive Dubai, finishing race 2 in fifth. In the Middle East Championship, Team Abu Dhabi’s Rashed Al Tayer and John Tomlinson claimed second place ahead of Selmer and Tandberg in Welmax. It was a stunning finale to a Class 1 season that has seen Bin Hendi and Al Zafeen win 75% of the races they have started and take the world title by a record 96 points over their nearest rivals.
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10 NICO VAN AKELYEN MINUTES WITH...
WOP: YOU HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN THE WORLD OF POWERBOATS FOR MANY YEARS, WHAT IS THE MOST NOTABLE CHANGES YOU HAVE NOTICED? NVA: The teams are looking very professional and you can feel the pressure
before he started with F1 racing. The second driver is Julius Leysen, who is still driving boats in waterski-racing.
between the teams in the pit-area.
WOP: DO YOU EVER ENVISAGE A SUCCESSFUL 4 STROKE ENGINE JOINING F1? NVA: I realise that we will have to use green engines in the future.
WOP: WHICH DO YOU PREFER, RACING OR PLEASURE BOATS? NVA: Both. What started as a hobby became my job. WOP: OF ALL THE MANY COMPETITION CLIENTS OF YOURS, WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST SUCCESSFUL? NVA: It’s a difficult question because we have a lot of competitive clients.
I’m convinced that Mercury is developing those kind of engines. So the race can go on!
WOP: HAS THE RECESSION AFFECTED YOUR BUSINESS? NVA: Yes, like in every business we feel the recession.
But we know that several pilots have been winning races with one of our engines. Until now it’s not easy to build an engine that’s fast, reliable and affordable. It is always a challenge for us to build up an engine and see that the pilot finishes the race with it.
In the near future we will be able to test and run in engines (in- and outboard) on our dyno.
WOP: HAVE YOU EVER COMPETED YOURSELF? NVA: No, I haven’t competed myself.
WOP: WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION? NVA: We don’t have time to go on holiday, because we go to many races
Because I’m more interested in the engines, I prefer that other people drive who have more experience. But I will always watch the race from the side.
ovrt the year, all over the world to support our racing teams. And from the little time we have left, we enjoy the free time. But when we have time, I prefer Italy. It’s a beautiful country with fantastic food and weather!
WOP: SKI-RACING IS VERY POPULAR IN BELGIUM, WHY IS THAT AS THERE ARE NO F1 DRIVERS FROM YOUR COUNTRY? NVA: In the future we will have 2 pilots from Belgium in F1. The first is Danny Bertels who was first a successful waterski-racer
WOP: YOU HAVE A RIVER OUTSIDE YOUR WORKSHOP, CAN YOU TEST RACE BOATS ON IT? NVA: Yes, there is, on the river the possibility for testing the race boats.
WOP: WITH THE NEW F1 SEASON FAST APPROACHING, WHO LOOKS AFTER YOUR BUSINESS WHILE YOU ARE AWAY? NVA: My daughter and our 2 mechanics. And in the future my grandson Brent.
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