Pacific PowerBoat July Aug 2024

THE FUTURE TODAY

The Maritimo M55 fuses the latest advancements in nautical technology and design with the iconic features of Maritimo’s M-Series models of the past. Australian built, its sharpened exterior design, re-imagined entertainment areas, and high performance reset the international standard for long-range cruising motor yachts. With an all-new fully enclosed, climate-controlled flybridge sky lounge, it’s the future of flybridge motor design today. maritimo.com.au

The SARGO 31

Sargo 31 Specifications

• Overall length 9.96m

• Max Beam 3.3m

• Cabins: 2 plus saloon

• Weight 5500kg

sargoboats.nz

• Fuel 500L/600L

• Certification CE/UKCA: B

• Volvo Penta D6-400 DPI – 400HP

Take delivery in the Med

Cruise the Mediterranean in luxury, tax-free, in the Sasga Menorquín 55FB.

sasgayachts.nz

WORLD’S FIRST HYDROGEN-POWERED SUPERYACHT SETS SAIL

The vessel represents a greener future for the yachting industry — and the design is stunning.

The maiden voyage of the world’s foremost hydrogen-powered superyacht signals not just a luxurious expedition across the seas but also a profound shift toward sustainability within the yachting industry, all encapsulated within its awe-inspiring design.

Departing from the esteemed Feadship shipyard in Amsterdam on the 4th of May, the 290-foot marvel, christened Project 821, stands as a testament to innovation following years of dedicated exploration into eco-conscious technologies for maritime travel.

Jan-Bart Verkuyl, the director of Feadship and CEO of Royal Van Lent, emphasized, “The aim has been to develop a new, clean technology not just for this project, but for the world.”

Crafting Project 821 proved to be a meticulous undertaking spanning five years, a testament to Feadship's commitment to pioneering sustainable alternatives to conventional fossil fuels in yacht construction. Partially fuelled by hydrogen fuel cells, which operate through chemical processes rather than traditional combustion, this superyacht leads the charge in bringing a technology previously reserved

for automobiles to the high seas. Verkuyl further explaining the significance of this venture, stating, “The value of the research as well the development of class and flag safety regulations for an entirely new type of energy generation is an advancement we are proud to have made available to all.”

Project 821's visionary design, conceived by the illustrious Hampshire-based firm RWD, reimagines luxury living upon the waves. From the owner’s deck evoking the opulence of a high-end apartment to the meticulously crafted interiors adorned with organic materials such as leather and marble, every facet radiates elegance and sophistication. Charlie Baker, a director at RWD, expressed

profound pride in the project's forward-thinking approach, hoping it will serve as a beacon inspiring similar innovations in the future.

While the incorporation of hydrogen storage tanks presents challenges in terms of weight and spatial constraints, Project 821 ingeniously addresses these concerns with a dual power system. Alongside its hydrogen fuel cells, capable of storing up to four tons of hydrogen and powering 16 fuel cells, the yacht integrates generators fuelled by hydrotreated vegetable oil, ensuring extended journeys are both feasible and environmentally responsible.

Available for acquisition through the esteemed superyacht sale and charter firm Edmiston, Project 821 stands as a pinnacle of environmental consciousness and technological prowess in yacht construction. Jamie Edmiston, CEO of Edmiston, hailed the yacht as a triumphant fusion of sustainability and engineering ingenuity.

The unveiling of Project 821 marks a watershed moment, demonstrating the viability of hydrogen fuel cell technology in large-scale vessels and heralding a new era of sustainability in maritime travel. With its silent traverse across the ocean, this ground-breaking superyacht brings humanity one step closer to a future where marine pollution is but a distant memory, and the seas remain pristine for generations to come.

PUBLISHER

Doug Dukeson

D&B Publishing Ltd

EDITORIAL TEAM

Ron Czerniak, Richard Milner, Doug Dukeson, Derek the Chef, Mike Rose, Carla Dukeson, Rebecca Hayter, Phil Gilbert, Aaron Fletcher, Freddy Foote, Peter Morgan, Kyle Barnes editorial@boatmags.com

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+64 21 772 202 doug@boatmags.com

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Pacific PowerBoat is published bi-monthly January, March, May, July, September, November

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

COPYRIGHT Pacific PowerBoat incorporates: Propeller and Pacific MotorYacht Magazines. The contents are copyright and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Unsolicited editorial material may be submitted. While every care is taken, no responsibility is accepted for material submitted. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of Pacific PowerBoat Magazine. All rights reserved.

Printed in New Zealand

ISSN 2230-4134 (Printed)

ISSN 2230-4142 (Online)

A MARKET OF MIXED VIBES

With three of our biggest boat shows down under now behind us—namely, the Auckland Boat Show in March, followed by the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show and the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show in May - we came away with mixed vibes.

While the Auckland Boat Show in March still enjoyed the warmth of the end of summer, the industry seemed to be steaming along reasonably well, especially in the boats 10 meters plus market. However, the trailer boat market was starting to slow a little.

In May, after a slow first five months of the year, the industry wondered what the Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show and its attendees would offer. Despite the sluggish pace, most exhibitors were happy with the response and inquiries, anticipating follow-ups. This was seen as positive, given the high interest rates and current economic climate.

Crossing over the ditch to the warmer Sanctuary Cove Boat Show the following week, the industry seemed to be in much better spirits. There was noticeable interest and good sales in trailer boats, cruisers, and motor yachts.

Here in New Zealand, the market remains quite challenging, with some boatyards having to tighten their belts to survive the slower winter months, sadly there have been a few casualties already, as there have been in most industries. We encourage our readers to support local businesses by taking care of those small jobs that have been pending since summer. Have your boat serviced now during these colder months. Many boat dealerships offer mid-winter specials to keep their workshops busy and spread their yearly workload. It’s a great time to save a few dollars and support the local businesses you’ll need when the season is upon us.

Lastly, congratulations to subscriber Brady Arblaster, of Mairangi Bay being the lucky winner of our boat show subscription prize – Over $2,300 worth of marine-related products to enhance his family’s time on the water.

Happy Reading all….

Doug Dukeson Publisher.

ISLAND GYPSY

The Island Gypsy 40 Wide Body is a fantastic boat that has been expanded by about a foot to make it even wider for the brandnew 2024 model. It boasts luxurious features that make it perfect for entertaining friends or simply relaxing on the water.

With a length of 40 feet, this boat provides ample room for a variety of activities. If you enjoy cooking, you’ll appreciate the large kitchen area with plenty of storage for your cooking supplies and food. The boat also has spacious seating areas for socialising,

safe walkways around the exterior for easy movement, a door conveniently located near the steering area, and an open interior space that feels like a comfortable living room. Additionally, it runs smoothly on the water, is fuel-efficient, and requires minimal maintenance.

12.90 meters Beam 3.96 meters

Fuel Capacity 1000l

Water Capacity 720 litres

Engine Make Cummins

Fuel Type Diesel

Air Conditioning 16000 BTU in Saloon, 12000 In Cabins

Duck Board 1.2m

Inverter 3000 W

Freezer In Fridge

Charting System Raymarine

Auto Pilot Yes Raymarine

Tv Yes in Saloon

Microwave 3 in 1 Air Fryer, Microwave, Oven

Fire Extinguishers Yes Life Jackets 4 Pax

The hull of the boat is designed to glide through waves smoothly and stay stable, providing a comfortable ride regardless of the water conditions. You can select from various engine options based on your preferred speed or boating style.

IGBOATS.COM.AU

ISLAND GYPSY

40

Wide Body

The stunning Island Gypsy 40 features enough space for up to 7 guests, boasting a generous sized cockpit, a spacious saloon for easy entertaining, and stacks of innovative features complete with a luxurious twin cabin fit out.

• Diesel shaft drive

• Full keel protection

• Generator

• Air conditioning

• Bow and stern thrusters

ISLAND GYPSY

50 Wide Body

This luxurious vessel with traditional lines is gaining popularity for its impressive appearance, speed, and tremendous interior volume. It is perfect for those who love spending time on the water ready for an adventure about to happen.

• Two Cabin Layout

• Full beam master

• Two heads

• 800hp Scania

• Shaft drive

SEALEGS LAUNCH THEIR LATEST 12M AMPHIBIOUS CABIN RIB -‘KUPE’

Sealegs International are delighted to announce the successful launch and sea testing of their latest 12m Cabin RIB ‘Kupe’. ‘Kupe’ which is named in honour of the early Polynesian navigator measures in at 12 meters (40” in length) with a 3.6m beam. Destined for serious adventure.

Equipped with all the conveniences of modern-day cruising including an extensive electronics package, a full galley as well as a luxuriously appointed cabin. Topping off this sensational craft, Kupe is powered by a pair of magnificent 600HP Mercury V12 outboards which when opened up make for spirited cruising in excess of 50 knots. Sealegs CEO, David McKee Wright stated “the Sealegs amphibious 12-meter cabin RIB redefines the standard of freedom, luxury and comfort in an amphibious craft. The size of the platform enables our customers the

freedom to use their Sealegs in nearly allweather conditions in style and comfort.

Since launching, Sealegs has received several orders for the 12RC platform as well as fielding enquiries for customised versions for commercial use including pilot boats, coast guard operators as well as tourism applications. McKee Wright went on to say “The System 100 kit now offers an amphibious solution to boat builders of large format craft worldwide for applications including military, commercial and recreational markets. Having this large format Amphibious Enablement

Systems (AES) installed provides the perfect platform to demonstrate the significant benefit amphibious technologies bring and further encourages boat builders to adopt our Sealegs technology’’.

Kupe’s excited owner commented –“continuing my long-time association with Sealegs ‘Kupe’ will be my fourth Sealegs … I’m hugely excited to be taking her on a voyage circumnavigating the coastline of New Zealand over the summer of 2024/25 – the adventure of a lifetime’.

HUTCHWILCO NEW ZEALAND BOAT SHOW 2024 - A RESOUNDING SUCCESS!

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show 2024 concluded with a resounding success, offering visitors a huge selection of the latest technology, boats and fishing equipment. Exhibitors reported strong sales outcomes of new boats, far exceeding expectations, and the new layouts and features rolled out by organisers XPO seem to have hit the spot with the tens of thousands of boat lovers and families in attendance.

Marine industry exhibitors at the show reported what organisers XPO have described as “remarkable on-site sales of boats, along with a robust number of quotations and leads to followup on; many expected to translate into post-show sales.” Despite initial concerns due to economic factors, the marine industry was pleasantly surprised by the high quality of genuine buyers present with their wallets out. XPO Head of Sales, Helen Kay comments “We’ve been tapping into builders and engineers with tailored messages reminding them to get along to the Boat Show, and that seems to be paying off for exhibitors – as too a revamped marketing & PR campaign that is by far best in market.” It’s hard to argue with them also reporting nearly 22% of visitors claiming to be first-timers to the show.

The sales of boats and marine tech by exhibitors has been reinforced with many asking already to renew their positions or

increase them in 2025. “We’re going to have a big challenge pleasing everyone as we have hall demand exceeding supply across our main halls,” says Kay. The show’s revamped floorplan layout received much positive feedback, making navigation more intuitive for attendees and premium brands enjoying a walkaround island stand experience. As one influencer Bill Chissell notes on the NZ Fishing Community Facebook page (enjoying more than 101,000 followers) “… New layout that seems to make more sense than how it’s been laid out traditionally.”

Garry Hart, a Taranaki farmer, emerged as the Grand Prize winner. Garry attended the show on Saturday with 10 fishing club buddies.

When the live draw took place, Garry initially thought it was a prank call from his mates. It took a while for him to believe he had truly won. Garry, who grew up fishing, has a 32-year-old son (a Coast Guard volunteer) who shares his enthusiasm for angling, along with his partner Sue – the president of the South Taranaki Fishing Club.

Garry sold his boat 4 years ago “as money was a bit tight” so this win is huge for him and his family. Garry’s love for chasing snapper and blue cod remains undiminished.

Fishing enthusiasts flocked to the new Shimano Fishing Pavilion, where

masterclasses by Matt Watson and the Shimano fishing simulator captivated attendees. There were long queues of kids across the four days gravitating to the new bumper boats, an inflatable pirate ship, and the rodeo shark providing for more familyfocused entertainment. Rayglass wowed visitors with the impressive Rayglass 3000, while the epic 12m Sealegs drew crowds. Brands like Surtees, Extreme, Senator Boats, Machina Boats, Offshore Boats, and McClays had boaties eagerly eyeing their next purchase. Hutchwilco celebrated in style onsite for their 130 years in business.

The organiser held a new format exhibitor function for the industry on Saturday evening, enjoying more than 300 in attendance, many dancing well into the night with the Jordan Luck band. David & Veronica Gibbs who had organised the Boat Show for 24 years on behalf of long-time owners, The Auckland Waterski Club, were inducted into the Hall of Fame for 2024. Organisers XPO had consulted with the marine associations, former Hall of Fame inductees and key industry stakeholders who believed David and Veronica as very worthy recipients.

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show 2024 truly lived up to its reputation as an angler’s paradise, celebrating all things marine and boating.

SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW - SALES, SALES, SALES! BUMPER SCIBS MORE THAN DELIVERS

Huge crowds and great weather for the 35th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show added up to an event exhibitors have praised as “exceptional”. Setting records was the number of boats on the water – 356 in total, up 41 on last year – delivering an unparalleled display of marine power and beauty for everyone who attended.

Johan Hasser, General Manager of Mulpha Events, said his team was overwhelmed with the public response to the show and delighted with the results reported by exhibitors in terms of leads and sales. “SCIBS is about building relationships with marine enthusiasts, it’s the Show where the marine business does business, and we are confident that this year’s Show has done exactly that for our 335 exhibitors,” he said. “At the same time, crowds of 43,741 have had the pleasure of viewing 102 new product launches, 767 boats and over 2500 marine products at our biggest show yet.”

Mark Richards, CEO of GB Marine Group, said SCIBS 2024 was the best boat show in the 25 years he’s been attending. “It’s also an important show for our Grand Banks and Palm Beach brands,” he said. Among the boats dazzling visitors and buyers was the fast-cruising FD90 from Horizon Yacht Australia and New Zealand, priced at $18.6 million and the most expensive boat on display. Horizon director Mark Western added that the luxury yacht company was also expecting to sell three more yachts to visitors who had attended SCIBS.

“This year has been an exceptional Sanctuary Cove show for Riviera Australia,” said owner Rodney Longhurst. “The world premiere of our 6800 Sport Yacht Platinum

Edition has received great accolades from her new owners and everyone who stepped aboard. “Our record showcase of luxury motor yachts from 46 to 78 feet has inspired new boaters to join the Riviera family. From our three gala dinners commemorating the launch of our 6000th motor yacht to our ladies’ luncheon event, the past four days have been a great cause for celebration for our amazing team.”

Simon Stewart, marketing manager for Maritimo Luxury Motor Yachts, said interest and appetite for Maritimo’s Black Edition M600 and M55 – the company’s global reveal – had been “exceptional”.

“There have been some healthy advance orders for the Black Edition Maritimos with approximately 60% heading overseas,” he said. “Requests by clients and potential customers to view the yachts was constant.”

Taryn Poole, of The Yacht Sales Co shared “We have experienced a very high-quality show in terms of visitors across displays and interest in brands resulting in a number of orders being taken. We are also looking forward to a busy week post-show with sea trials and media reviews booked on a number of our models.”

Freedom Boat Club’s Gold Coast director Patrick Edwards said the club was thrilled to generate 238 leads through the Show

along with an increase of 10% in Australian members. “We have two new boats being delivered this month and six new boats on order, to keep up with demand. It’s been great to educate the public about how our club model can allow them to get on the water.”

Ross Turner, general manager of exclusive power boat dealer EYachts, praised an “excellent” SCIBS 2024. “We’ve had a lot of interest in the boats,” he said. “We even took a deposit on a boat within the first two hours of opening. We have a demonstration day on all models immediately after the Show and we have a lot of people signed up for that.”

Foot traffic was also heavy at the Navico Group stand, with especially strong interest in the new Simrad® NSX® ULTRAWIDE marine display and new Lowrance® Eagle® fish finder. Marketing manager Brad Verkerk said: “The Show is always amazing for us. We also enjoy the collaboration between all the different brands.”

Mr Hasser said: “After this year’s phenomenal Show, exhibitors are already lining up to join us for the 2025 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show to be held from May 22-25, 2025”.

THE WHITEHAVEN REVOLUTION

- THE DAWN OF A NEW ERA IN WHITEHAVEN’S HISTORY

The 2024 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show was an incredible event for Whitehaven Motor Yachts, who were thrilled to announce the revolutionary new Whitehaven 7000 Series, along with the world premiere of the Harbour Classic 40 with its innovative upper galley arrangement and provide a sneak peek of the new Harbour Classic 52. The interest and enthusiasm from attendees was overwhelming.

Whitehaven has collaborated with Steve Ford of 4D Designs in a radical new suite of features for the vessels in its 7000 series - Sports Yacht, Flybridge and Sports Flybridge models, and a new means of bringing custom-crafted Whitehaven’s to life that places control in the hands (and imaginations) of owners. Ingenious features harnessing the creative expertise of 4D Designs, Whitehaven has devised an array of new features for the “Vista” versions of the Whitehaven 7000 Sports Yacht, Flybridge and Sports Flybridge models.

The suite of innovation starts with a reimagining of the foredeck as the “Vista Deck”, a revolutionary re-engineering of access from the saloon direct to the bow. The Vista Deck allows access to the luxurious lounge and sundeck bow area and seamless flow through the entire vessel–from the aft cockpit through the saloon and onto the foredeck leisure space. Next is the awe-inspiring “Atrium”: large swathes of open space that let light stream in from the flybridge windows to the

saloon below and even further down to the lower decks. This visionary feature evokes the bright, airy ambience of a Manhattan loft-style apartment. The Atrium provides a clear view from the flybridge to the saloon below, creating an unsurpassed social connection among guests on board.

“It’s a great pleasure for me to announce our new collaborations and projects being undertaken with 4 Designs,” said Bruce Scott, Managing Director at Whitehaven.

“The ‘Vista Deck’ and ‘Atrium’ flybridge are true firsts in cutting-edge innovation. They are not modifications or the evolution of a past idea.

The Customiser - Whitehaven’s next generation viewing experience. To convey the sheer quantity of innovative variants to their 7000 model range, they had to invent the technology. So revolutionary are these new features, they needed a tool by which people can “adventure through” their chosen model, selecting unique combinations to create their own entirely customised vessel. Enter, Steve Ford, expert boat designer and founder of 4D

Designs, who developed a ground-breaking means of experiencing the new options. Known as “The Customiser”, the program allows the operator to specify features during a walkthrough by clicking on the “Smart Spec” list of options they can use to ‘build’ their Whitehaven with almost every conceivable detail. The program was designed to be as easy and realistic as possible. “Whitehaven is the first to adopt Smart Spec technology for new model specification, with hyper-realism at the click of your mouse,” said Steve Ford. “The Customiser puts Whitehaven ahead of the curve,” said Bruce. “We have created a new means of viewing boats that puts the power in the customer’s hands and puts Whitehaven on a new trajectory. “Never before in Australia has any manufacturer of luxury vessels been able to demonstrate personalisation in real-time, photo realistic renders so customers can see the outcome rather than have to imagine it. From my personal perspective, I’ve never been more excited about Whitehaven’s future”.

LUCKY POWERBOAT SUBSCRIBER WINS PRIZE

$2,300+ worth of products to enhance time spent

OFishers Sports and Trawlers Yachts,

Allowcrewandmovearoundsafely

ne lucky subscriber took out the prize PowerBoat Magazine recently ran at both NZ boat shows – Auckland on the Water in March followed by the more recent Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show in May. All new subscriptions signed up at both shows and online were entered with Brady Arblaster, of Mairangi Bay being the lucky winner. Doug Dukeson, PowerBoat Magazine Publisher, recently caught up with Brady to present him with the prize pack, which included:

Keepyourvesselsteadywhendocking

Theonlyno-maintenancegyroavailable

Effectiveattrollingandzerospeeds

Sleepincomfort oranchoredout

EXCEPTIONAL SANCTUARY COVE SHOW FOR RIVIERA

Riviera, one of Australia's premium luxury motor yacht builders, has defined the 2024 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show as 'exceptional'.

Twelve motor yachts from Riviera’s wide range were selected for the company’s display, which was visited by more than 600 Riviera owners and 3000 visitors. “This year has been a truly memorable show for the Riviera family,’’ owner Rodney Longhurst said. “The knowledge gained by owners attending the Riviera Festival of Boating, our exclusive boating education program, is helping to achieve their ultimate boating experience. Our record showcase of luxury motor yachts from 46 to 78 feet has inspired many new owners to join the Riviera family”. From our three gala dinners celebrating the launch of our 6000th motor yacht to the fun-filled Women of Riviera luncheon, this has been a true celebration of Riviera.’

Festival of Boating –Provided training for over 200 Riviera owners

Riviera’s exclusive Festival of Boating proved so popular that many were booked out well in advance. The three-day program offered owners a wide range of educational seminars and training workshops. Topics covered included ladies’ skippers, weather, navigation, offshore seamanship, radar, safe anchoring and mooring, preventative maintenance, safety, thermal imaging, and power management.

6800 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition – World Premiere

Riviera celebrated the launch of the 6800 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition aboard a fine dining, floating venue anchored on the Gold Coast’s Broadwater. It was the first opportunity for owners and their families who had purchased the company’s new flagship Sport Yacht to step aboard and inspect this outstanding yacht. The exclusive world premiere preview was held on the eve of the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. Owners applauded and cheered as the magnificent 6800 cruised into view, with a well-known Queensland entertainer on the bow of the yacht.

“It’s a 10 out of 10… and I’m a tough marker,’’ Queensland owner

Simon George said on the night. “I think Riviera has done a great job. You can appreciate the extra thought that’s gone into the design. There’s nothing that I would want to change.’’

Speaking at the event, Mr Longhurst said, “This new 6800 Sport Yacht is our ultimate Sport Yacht. With a choice of three or four staterooms and three bathrooms, a crew cabin or utility room, a full-height walk-through engine room, huge entertaining and living spaces, an all-weather aft deck, expansive sun-loving forward deck, and an impressive tender garage devoted to water sports, it is one magnificent motor yacht.”

The launch of 6000th Motor Yacht – Riviera owners celebrate

Riviera hosted a series of exclusive owner dinners on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings to celebrate the launch of Riviera’s 6000th motor yacht. Starring on the display was this very yacht, ‘Pelara’ the Iridium silver-hulled 5400 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition. Riviera owners from Australia, New Zealand and America enjoyed world-class cuisine and fun-filled entertainment over the three nights. “The dinners were a sign of the loyalty Riviera shows its owners,’’ Denyse Coughlin, from Sydney, who has her third Riviera on order, said. “The food was amazing. The entertainment was first-rate. We were seated with guests from around the world and it was fascinating to hear everyone’s Riviera story. Congratulations to Riviera’s owner Rodney Longhurst. He has built a lovely company culture that is so obvious to see at events like this.’’

Women of Riviera – United by a common passion

More than 90 ladies enjoyed perfect Gold Coast Autumn weather and magnificent Italian cuisine when they attended the exclusive Women of Riviera luncheon which was held at Ioesco Café Cucina Bar in the Sanctuary Cove precinct. “Everyone at the lunch had one thing in common,’’ Riviera owner Nicole Box, from Western Queensland, said. “We started with a love of boating and from there, everything just grew. It was an eclectic crowd, from all walks of life, but no one felt out of place. I formed some lovely new friendships, and I will be back next year.’’

Our very own Carla Dukeson was lucky enough to be invited and met some lovely Riviera owners herself, also made to feel very welcome!

“The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show has provided great cause for celebration for our family of yacht owners and our amazing 950-strong team. We are grateful for the incredible support of our owners around the world and we could not be more proud of our team who go above and beyond every day to create the finest motor yachts launched in our proud history.’’

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

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

Get in touch to discuss your next project.

MARITIMO’S GLOBAL LAUNCHES - AT SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

The M50 and S50 Motor Yachts

In a surprise announcement, at the recent SCIBS, Australian luxury motor yacht builder Maritimo globally revealed the all-new M50 Flybridge and S50 Sedan Motor Yachts to the world. These are the latest and proud descendants of Maritimo’s continuing evolution that has delivered an even more refined, elegant, practical, and luxurious space throughout the craft, combined with high-efficiency propulsion and reduced drag hull forms, along with legendary build quality and blue-water credentials. The popularity and appreciation of the designs that have led to the sales success of this latest generation of Maritimo from 55 to 75 feet have all been distilled down into the new 50 into this new platform to ensure every time aboard, short or long, is always a joy.

“Stepping up from a 30 or 40-footer never looked so enticing.” Says Maritimo’s Marketing Manager, Simon Stewart. “Equally, moving from a larger craft does not mean a contraction in luxury, comfort, ride, performance or overall amenity. All the learnings of the latest generation of Maritimo have been carefully curated into this new compact platform, ready to bring new dreams to boat owners the world over.”

Some of the Key Features and Advantages:

• A captivating aesthetic. The M50 and S50 exhibit elegant lines and a distinguished presence.

• Absolutely class-defining, with the largest, completely enclosed flybridge in its class that spans the entire 5.22m beam with efficient and dependable Scania Di13 800MHP powerplants as standard, and an incredible 3800 litre fuel capacity positioned low for increased stability.

• The Master Stateroom, ensuite, and storage spaces are not only larger than the vessel it replaces, but they are also the best in the entire category.

• Single level floors inside the cabins to remove trip hazards, with total walkaround access to the King Bed in

the master and Queen in the VIP, which can also become a twin. Capacity to sleep up to eight souls on the M50 (six on the S50), if required and optioned accordingly.

• Famous walk-through zone living, with the rear galley that was pioneered by Maritimo a centrepiece for seamless entertaining from the Main Saloon to the upper cockpit, and then all the way to the edge of the expansive swim platform that is virtually at sea level.

• Renowned Maritimo ride, comfort, and handling, born from a pedigree in racing, and the delivery of one of the world’s most respected names in true, ocean-going, long-range motor yachts par excellence.

The exciting development of the new Maritimo M50 and S50 began in late 2023, and like all Maritimos, the designs and specifications have been shared with loyal owners for their input to then further refine the final product offering. Pre-orders will be available soon.

The Black Edition

Maritimo also globally launched the allnew Black Editions of the M55 Flybridge Motor Yacht and the M600 Offshore Flybridge Motor Yacht at the recent Show. These new models include a series of updates to its revered line of luxury cruisers, equipping these models with features both practical and aesthetic to suit a new era of owners and their requirements adding yet another level of refinement and style to Maritimo M55, M60 and M600 models. The Black Edition is borne of Maritimo’s objective to constantly improve even its best-selling models.

Relentless in their quest for excellence, Maritimo is proud to adorn new models with the striking Black Edition mark. Simon Stewart, Maritimo Marketing Manager, describes the Black Edition models as “a significant change that embraces owner feedback and raises the bar in terms of design and on-board experience”. “It is the natural evolution of Maritimo’s top selling models of the 50, 55 and 60, and taking the learnings from customers, including learnings from the flagships of the Maritimo fleet – the S75 and M75 – to create a repertoire of elements and styling that distinguish these models and set them further apart from contenders in their class.” The Black Edition includes all the features and functions of preceding models but with deeper refinement and styling to our Enclosed Flybridge Motor Yachts - M55, M60 and M600 Offshore.

One of the hallmarks of Maritimo motor yachts is their large open cockpits that seamlessly connect with the galley inside. The new Black Edition enhances the cockpit with several practical and stylish improvements, such as a redesigned, larger transom island separating the main cockpit from the swim platform which now incorporates an upgraded lounge and expanded BBQ area. The class-leading upper cockpit area has even more space than before and this area can now be configured in several ways. The signature aft galley location, pioneered by Maritimo, forms the central point for convenient access outdoors to the cockpit, inside to the saloon and up the stairs to the enclosed flybridge and Skylounge. The Black Edition galley has taken this successful formula and

combines this to offer increased counter space while maintaining excellent storage capabilities.

Within the enclosed flybridge, the Black Edition helm brings the enhanced styling and layout of the flagship M75 into the new models. The low-profile dash features a totally redesigned multifunction and engine screen pods, with enhanced ergonomics for easy access to all the necessary controls. The upgraded fully electric helm seats complete the space to make it a comfortable zone for travelling long distances. The Black Edition also upgrades the existing cabinet to a two and three-door wet bar, as well as an entirely new lounge seat with storage options, adding comfort, functionality and even more style to the Skylounge.

Up front The Black Edition increases the capabilities of the forward deck, taking cues from the expansive M75 deck with a new larger optional sun pad with adjustable backrests, dual drink holders, and handrails on both sides. Combined with an additional forward-facing bow lounge, it creates the perfect place for socialising and sunbathing. This area can also be converted for tender storage, equipped with a crane davit and removable chocks.

The Global Launch of the Maritimo Black models kicked off with the 2024 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, and will be followed by the US debut in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in October 2024.

MARITIMO.COM.AU

Watertight construction. Utilises dual channel non-contact (Hall Effect) sensors for handle position measuremenet to allow greater reliability.

Luxury starts here. Featuring a sleek, modern design, Genesys offers the latest technology and is encapsulated in one of the most compact footprints on the market.

Designed to completely protect control head from external water ingress and suitable for extreme environments (IP68) and applications where the control head may be submerged.

The Handheld Remote Control™ option gives boat operators total control of both transmission and throttle from virtually anywhere on the boat. Electronic controls with optional integrated mechanical backup for mechanical engines and transmissions

Single or Dual lever control, Adjustable control head detent / friction settings, “Posilock” gear lockout, High Idle mode

SUZUKI NEW ZEALAND PAYS TRIBUTE TO SIMON MEADE

It is with great sadness, we learn of the passing of Suzuki New Zealand stalwart, Simon Meade on Saturday 18 May, after a tragic car accident.

Simon was far from just an employee and became a great friend and mentor to many at Suzuki New Zealand, their dealers, and everyone he dealt with. He was instrumental in Suzuki New Zealand’s success over the last 25 years and has been pivotal in helping make Suzuki the company they are today. Primarily involved in the Motorcycle Department, and more recently the reintroduction of Suzuki Marine and then Aftersales, he was someone who never stopped looking for and mastering any challenge that was put in front of him, always pushing himself and everyone around to be the best they could be.

Simon was also someone who never sat still, equally passionate about his work as he was about anything that moved –motorcycles, water skis, mountain bikes, cars, even model aeroplanes. But above all else he was totally devoted to his family - his wife Jenny, his sons Brent and Tennessee, his daughter Lily, his mother Sally, and his daughter-in-law Marie, supporting their dreams and pursuits in any way he could.

Our thoughts and fond memories go out to Jenny and the extended family during this sad time.

SUZUKIMARINE.CO.NZ

Do you have a helm station with just glass on the side and no slider?

Transform your boat with custom DIY retrofit sliders

SANDBROOKS INTRODUCE RETROFIT FRAMELESS SLIDERS

Sandbrooks now has Retrofit Frameless Sliders available for boats with solid glass, now offering added ventilation.

• Sandbrooks offers new side Helm glass the same size as your original, with a large hole with sliding glass over the hole.

• A Custom-made side helm glass of any size or shape to match your existing glass.

• The sliding glass can be on the inside or the outside face of the new glass.

Custom-made for any size: We create sliders to perfectly fit your boat.

Easy DIY installation: Starting at just $1250 + GST.

Elegant design: A new glass panel with a large sliding section for optimal functionality.

Contact us today with the dimensions of your current glass for a personalized quote.

Tel: 09 278 9816 hello@sandbrooks.co.nz

• The new Helm unit, sliding glass and frame, fitted to the outside face from $1250 + GST

• These can be fitted yourself, simply cut off your old Helm glass and glue on the new Helm glass unit.

• Installation is available. (Cost depends on how your helm glass was installed)

Call Sandbrooks with the size of your Helm glass for a quote today.

SANDBROOKS.CO.NZ

TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR THE 55TH SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

Four days of fun are on the horizon from 1 to 4 August, with tickets for the 2024 Sydney International Boat Show now on sale.

In its 55th year, the Sydney International Boat Show will once again transform the International Convention Centre Sydney and Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour into an iconic recreational boating lifestyle event for all ages, abilities and budgets. Visitors are encouraged to stay and play longer this year with a variety of exclusive packages and offers available with surrounding accommodation partners to suit all budgets and styles.

Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) President, Adam Smith said the 2024 Sydney International Boat Show will be a celebration of everything in, on and around water, and will have something for everyone, from seasoned boaties to shorebound spectators. “Visitors are invited to soak up a renewed experience with plenty of activities to enjoy, even before entering the exhibition centre. While Cockle Bay will be filled with a prestigious range of sailboats, motor yachts and cruisers, the foreshore

Redefined for the ultimate experience

itself will host the Discover Sailing & Paddling Hub including an entertainment stage and activations. The Show will also play host to a variety of exciting global, Asia-Pacific and Australian premieres and product launches,” Mr Smith said. The popular fishing clinics and giant fishing demo tank will return, and visitors can learn all the tips and tricks from Australia’s foremost fishing experts.

SYDNEYBOATSHOW.COM.AU

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

New D4 & D6 propulsion

packages

Impeccable Heritage. Reborn.

out for the

The NEW Tristram 691 Offshore is now available and ready for your offshore adventures. Design elements from the Tristram 821 Offshore’s digital dash have been brought into the new 691 Offshore. With the turn of the key, your digital dash lights up to become a navigational and fish-finding masterpiece. A moulded and upholstered eyebrow offers premium aesthetics and reduces sun glare for the skipper while navigating.

Playing your fish from port to starboard is made easy aboard the new Tristram 691 Offshore due to its mid-transom step. This unique feature turns your bait board into a walkaround bait station.

Yamaha or Mercury's console-mounted binnacle control is fitted into the 691 Offshore’s ergonomically designed moulded pocket. Space is also available for Simrad or Garmin remote controls and a moulded

armrest provides the skipper with comfort while underway.

Moulded side pockets are integrated into the Tristram 691 Offshore’s deck liner. In addition to adding to the overall package’s strength and twisting resistance, these side pockets provide an excellent rod or ski storage option.

TRISTRAMBOATS.COM

THE YACHT SALES CO. WINS THE RISING DEALER IN ASIA AWARD

The Yacht Sales Co. has been recognised at the Yacht Style Awards winning the Rising Dealer in Asia award. The accolade was presented at the prestigious awards in Singapore in April and acknowledged The Yacht Sales Co.’s successful expansion in the region with its new and pre-owned yacht sales.

The company represents many of the world’s leading brands throughout the Asia Pacific region, including Fountaine Pajot, Dufour Yachts, ILIAD Catamarans, Maritimo, Absolute Yachts, Cora Catamarans, NEEL and LEEN Trimarans, and Tesoro Yachts. The Yacht Sales Co. now has sales centres and representatives in 11 countries throughout the region and is continuing to expand to cater for increasing demand for its premium yachts and outstanding client service.

Managing director Mark Elkington said the award was a great honour for the company and a testament to the hard work of the entire team. “We are thrilled to be recognised as the Rising Dealer in Asia as we have invested a great deal in the region to offer new and pre-owned yacht buyers and sellers the finest service in the industry,” Mark said. “As part of our strategic growth in Asia, we have expanded our team of experienced and professional sales consultants, opened new sales centres, and have an exciting plan for further growth and activities,” he said.

The company had an extremely successful Singapore Yacht Show with a huge number of visitors to its display and a number of orders taken at the event.

SEALEGS ANNOUNCES

The Sealegs Amphibious 8.6m Alloy MAX

Sealegs proudly announce the release of their latest innovation, the 8.6-meter Amphibious Aluminium Cabin MAX. This ground-breaking vessel, designed in collaboration with its esteemed customers, represents the pinnacle of performance, versatility, and cutting-edge design in the amphibious marine industry.

The Sealegs 8.6m is not just an amphibious craft - it is a revolution in marine exploration. Engineered with precision and crafted from the highest quality materials this vessel is built to withstand the toughest

conditions while providing unparalleled comfort and functionality.

At Sealegs, they believe the best innovations come from listening to their customers. This craft is the result of extensive feedback and collaboration with boating enthusiasts and professionals from around the world. Every detail, from the spacious and ergonomic cabin to the advanced navigation systems, has been thoughtfully designed to meet the real-world needs of their customers. The result is a vessel that not only meets, but exceeds expectations in

terms of performance, safety, and usability.

“The release of the Sealegs Amphibious 8.6m Alloy MAX marks a significant milestone in our commitment to innovation and excellence in amphibious technology” Nicholas Glanfield, Sealegs Marketing Manager commented. “We invite you to join us in this exciting new chapter and experience first-hand the unmatched versatility and performance of our latest creation”. The craft is now available for pre-order.

SEALEGS.COM

INTERNATIONAL FIRST YACHT COATINGS BRAND AWARDED AUSTRALIAN MADE ACCREDITATION

International®, the renowned yacht brand under AkzoNobel, has been selected to join the Australian Made Campaign in its commitment to support local craftsmanship with premium quality products.

Micron AP®, Micron Extra 2®, Micron One®, Ultra 2, Trilux® 33 and Primocon® are the first International® yacht coatings products to receive this prestigious accreditation from the renowned not-for-profit organisation. These five fouling control coatings and a primer will now bear the iconic green and gold Australian-made logo which serves as a symbol of authenticity and quality for ethically sourced products originating from the country.

Produced at AkzoNobel's Sunshine site in Melbourne, the products met the strict criteria of high standards for quality, craftsmanship and production set out by the Australian Made Campaign. The Australian Made initiative, which launched in 1999, aims to promote the growth and sustainability of Australian manufacturers, growers, and producers, with the logo providing an easy way for consumers to identify locally produced goods.

Irina Atanasova, AkzoNobel’s Yacht Sales Manager for Australia, said: ”We are thrilled to announce our participation in the Australian Made initiative. “This decision underscores our commitment to supporting local industries and upholding stringent quality standards. As part of AkzoNobel, a global company with a strong local presence, we are dedicated to contributing to the growth and sustainability of Australian manufacturing. By proudly displaying the Australian Made logo, we reinforce our dedication to excellence.”

Ben Lazzaro, Australian Made Campaign Chief Executive, said: “Australian products are made to some of the highest standards in the world. “They are trusted and known for their safety and quality. There is a huge appetite out there for Australian products, with country of origin increasingly playing an important part in purchasing decisions. “It’s great to see support for local manufacturing continue in many industries, including the boating and maritime industry."

Quality 316 Stainless Steel Made From Full Electric and Hydraulic Options Options 200KG - Available 1500KG

Single Stage and Fixed Boom Hydraulic Swim Platforms

Installation Completed at Our Hobsonville Location

SDX270-SURFTHE ALL-NEW WAKE-SURFING BOAT FROM SEA RAY

Since 1958, Sea Ray have been pioneers when it comes to crafting the perfect day boat - From being the first boat manufacturer to use fibreglass in its pleasure boat construction to inventing the moulded-in swim platform.

Building on this legacy, the SDX270 Surf is in a league of its own. This surf-ready model takes full advantage of its spacious layout and ample storage for everyone in the family to catch waves in style.

While Sea Ray has traditionally stayed away from ‘Wake-Surfing’ boats, they have used their 65 years of knowledge and know-how to create an excellent craft worthy of the Sea Ray badge. Unlike traditional wake surfing

boats, the SDX270 boast a high freeboard. Sitting higher in the water means you can make it home safely when the weather turns, you have a superior ride quality and no sinking feeling.

Storage is optimised within the SDX270 Surf. To create plenty of room for everyone onboard and all the toys dedicated spaces have been designed and incorporated throughout the boat. A storage area under the cockpit bench seat keeps boards secure

when not in use. The large convertible sun pad is the perfect spot to relax. The water is easily accessible from the swim platform with a manual submersible step and concealed stainless steel four-step ladder. Equipped with dual 9" Simrad NSX touchscreen displays and an intuitive custom user interface that makes adjusting surf settings for any rider easy.

SPORTSMARINE.CO.NZ

SEAKEEPER OPTION ADDED TO HAINES

HUNTER 725 RANGE

Always looking for new and innovative ways to make boating better, Haines Hunter has begun offering Seakeeper gyro stabilisers as an option to its 725 range, recently fitting one to a SP725 for an avid offshore fisherman owner.

Arenowned performer in all conditions, especially in the rough, the 725-model range, of which there are five configurations, is a popular choice with the serious offshore game fishing community, with a huge range of fishing options able to be added to suit anyone’s requirements. Whether you are out wide in sloppy and uncomfortable conditions, or one of your crew struggles with seasickness, the addition of a Seakeeper gyro can transform your boating. The Seakeeper gyro stabiliser applies the physics of gyroscopes to the age-old problem of boat roll in rough or sloppy seas.

How it works is that inside a vacuumenclosed sphere, a steel flywheel spins at speeds of up to 9,750 rpm. When the boat rolls, the Seakeeper tilts fore and aft producing a powerful gyroscopic power known as angular momentum to port and starboard that counteracts the boat roll. Small and lightweight the Seakeeper 1 system weighs only a small fraction of the boat's displacement. When turned on, it eliminates up to 95% of boat roll, fatigue, anxiety, and seasickness that go with it. The vacuum containment enables us to spin the flywheel three times faster, cut its weight by two-thirds, and halve the power requirements.

The vacuum also allows us to protect the most critical components (flywheel, bearings, and motor) from the marine environment, preventing corrosion. Every Seakeeper has a hydraulic braking system and active control, smart technology that automatically gauges the sea state and reacts instantaneously. This allows for optimal performance at all speeds and sea conditions.

Seakeeper 1 features a flush mount design for easier installation, runs exclusively on 12V DC power, and can be installed virtually anywhere on board. Haines Hunter have installed it aft in the cockpit, where it takes up very little space and sits tidily under a custom-made cover.

HAINESHUNTER.CO.NZ

SEAKEEPER.COM

NIUE WINS 2024 WORLD CHANGING IDEA AWARD

The tiny nation of Niue continues to step up on the world stage when it comes to protecting the ocean.

The economy of Niue is firmly centred around the Ocean - from an important food source for locals, to tourism generated income it needed sustainable actions to protect it for future generations and has done just that, with the world taking notice. Niue’s Ocean Conservation Commitments (OCCs) concept, has won the ‘Nature’ category of the Fast Company’s 2024 World Changing Ideas Awards and also received an honourable mention in the ‘Water’ category. This year’s World Changing Ideas Awards showcase 50 winners, 127 finalists, and 172 honourable mentions. A panel of Fast Company editors and reporters selected winners from a pool of more than 1,300 entries across climate, social justice, wellness, politics, technology, corporate social responsibility, and more.

Along with her brother Brendon Pasisi, the brainchild of this innovative project Coral Pasisi says, “this makes significant commitments to conservation, like Niue’s

Moana Mahu – 127,000 square kms of pristine Pacific Ocean, a very valuable contribution by the small nation of Niue and her people, to the global environment.”

Moana Mahu is 40% of Niue’s EEZ and is classed as a no-take zone. “Maintaining the protection of this large natural asset at the same time as fighting the impacts of climate change is not easy for a small country. That is why we developed the Ocean Conservation Commitments (OCCs). “This has been a joint effort but very much driven by local thought leaders and the community of Niue who have grown up in the ocean and continue to explore the best ways we can support its longevity, not just for our children but all children around the world,” says Coral.

Visitors to Niue enjoy ocean centric holidays with small private beaches, lagoons and swimming caves that are great for snorkelling. Add world class fishing, diving, and bucket list experiences like swimming

with Niue’s resident Spinner Dolphins or Humpback Whales as they migrate to Niue in July to October annually to give birth and nurture their calves it is clear this Blue economy needs to stay in pristine order to also drive Tourism in Niue.

NIUEOCEANWIDE.COM

HULLWELL ADVANCED

MARINE COATING

TECHNOLOGY

In 2020, HullWell Advanced Marine Coating Technology was appointed exclusive New Zealand Distributor and Technical Support for Coppercoat MultiSeason Antifoul Coating. DeFOUL Antifouling Paint Remover, which removes up to 10 years of antifouling paint in 24 hours and CK 426 Ceramic Infused Two-Part Epoxy Anticorrosive + Barrier Coating have since been added to create the HullWell System.

The HullWell System removes the complexity, toxicity and failure points associated with traditional multi-coat antifouling paint systems and provides 10 or more years of epoxy-based protection against corrosion, water ingress and biofouling on the underwater surfaces of steel, aluminium, carbon fibre, GRP and timber vessels.

The hard, non-porous surface of Coppercoat is highly resistant to abrasive and impact damage. It has a lower coefficient of drag than most antifouling products generating fuel cost savings, higher speeds and lower emissions.

Coppercoat is typically cost neutral after 12 to 18 months, the period of time when a traditional antifouling paint has needed to be replaced. A recent comparative cost analysis prepared for the owner of a new 16.50 m high-performance GRP yacht, showed Coppercoat as 55% more expensive than a 12-month efficacy antifouling paint for the first application, then Coppercoat delivered cost savings of 11% in Year 2, 58% in Year 3 and 105% in Year 4.

Maintenance of Coppercoat is minimal during its 10-year plus life. Nutrients, water flow and frequency of use create some variances, however usual maintenance is confined to burnishing [in or out of the water] at 12-to-18-month intervals.

HullWell provides project-specific Preparation and Application Guideline Procedures for its clients and has a network of approved professional applicators in most regions. Each HullWell product is solvent-free. None discharge VOCs [a primary cause of ozone depletion] into the atmosphere or leech toxic biocides into our marine environment.

HULLWELL.CO.NZ

REDEFINING THE STANDARD

THE MERCURY DIESEL 3.0L V-6

150, 230 & 270hp

The New 3.0L common-rail highspeed engine delivers exceptional performance and offers substantial improvements in acceleration, top speed and range.

Utilising Variable Geometry Turbochargers (VGT) virtually eliminates turbo-lag, enabling these engines to provide outstanding low-end torque while delivering better fuel economy than petrol engines of similar horsepower.

The lightweight compact design boosts performance further, while clean and quiet operation enhance your day on the water.

KAWASAKI MOTORS COMMENCES OPERATIONS IN NEW ZEALAND

Kawasaki Motors Pty Ltd is pleased to announce the commencement of operations in New Zealand, following a transition from Lyntec Holdings Ltd.

As of April 2024, Kawasaki Motors has become the exclusive supplier of Kawasaki products in New Zealand, including Motorcycles, Utility Vehicles, ATVs, and Jet Skis.

Kawasaki Motors extends its gratitude to Lyntec Holdings Ltd for its assistance during this transition period and looks forward to maintaining the strong reputation that Kawasaki holds in New Zealand. The existing dealer network across New Zealand has been retained, ensuring that Kawasaki Motors continues to meet customer needs.

KAWASAKI-MOTORS.CO.NZ

2023 MERCURY DEALER OF THE YEAR NZ

Gulfland Marine takes out prestigious award for 4th time.

Gulfland Marine has taken out Mercury Marine’s most prestigious award, named “The New Zealand Dealer of the Year” for 2023 for the fourth time.

Having completed a three-peat, winning the award in 2017, 2018 and 2019, Gulfland Marine has continued its exceptional performance to triumph again. Located on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, North of Auckland, Gulfland Marine was started in 1979 and has served the Rodney and North Auckland districts for over 30 years, specialising in new and used boats, outboard motors, stern drives and inboard sales. Mercury Marine’s Director of Sales David Meehan said the win by Gulfland Marine was a testament to the dedication they have showed to their customers.

“Gulfland Marine showed plenty of resilience in 2023, weathering the storm after a tough 12 months to ensure their customers received the best quality service” David said.

“They have been proactive in securing repowers for their customers, ensuring they make the most of their time on the water. “Having previously won the award multiple times, it’s great to see them back setting the standard for the New Zealand market, with plenty of room to grow over the next few years”.

MERCURYMARINE.COM.AU

NAVICO ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH WHITTLEY MARINE

Navico Group, one of the world’s leading suppliers of integrated systems and products, today announced a partnership with Whittley Marine Group, one of Australia’s premier manufacturers of fibreglass boats. As a part of this agreement, Whittley Marine Group will offer Simrad® multifunction displays and Fathom® e-power system as the electronic and power solution options across its vessels.

“We are pleased to announce this partnership and have our latest technology and power solutions paired with a premier brand like Whittley Marine Group,” said Jarrod Sagar, APAC President, Navico Group. “Through our broad portfolio of industry-leading brands, Navico Group is uniquely positioned to offer Whittley customers unprecedented benefits through our integrated systems and technology that will significantly enhance the boating experience.”

All new Whittley boats will be equipped with Simrad® multifunction displays,

including the NSOevo3S™, NSSevo3S™ and NSX® models, featuring full integration with Mercury® engines. Additionally, the Fathom e-power system, featuring RELiON® batteries, CZone® Digital Switching and Mastervolt® charging solutions, will provide customers with reliable power management and control, allowing them to better understand their power needs. The Fathom system is a fully vertically integrated solution compromised of energy storage, power conversion and digital monitoring and control. The system allows users to extend time away from the charge source by providing more battery

capacity and efficiently managing the electrical system.

“We are thrilled to partner with Navico Group, a company that shares our vision for innovation and excellence in the boating industry,” said Alan Whittley, CEO of Whittley Marine Group. “This partnership not only signifies a leap forward in boat manufacturing but also ensures our customers receive the best possible on-water experience with state-of-the-art technology at their fingertips.

NAVICO.COM

DE MEY YACHTS FACTORY TOUR –WEDS 10 JULY

de MEY Yachts have decided to have an open night to show what they are up to and how they do it!

Come and explore the intricate process of yacht building, meet some of their team, and witness first-hand the dedication and passion that make de MEY Yachts a leader in the industry, all at 22 Rerewai Place, Mount Maunganui on Wednesday 10 July starting at 2:30pm.

• Walk-throughs of their 18 metre catamarans

• Phantom Race Boats

• General Factory Walk around

• How they use Design and Technology

This event is open to everyone, whether you're a boating enthusiast, boatbuilder, prospective customer, or simply curious about what de MEY Yachts do. So they have an idea of numbers, please RSVP to office@nicdemeyyachts.com with a preferred time you would like to come through, as they would like to limit it to three groups per hour.

NICDEMEYYACHTS.COM

Setting a new standard in trim & stabilization. Again. Priced for 20-45ft boats.

LIGHTNING by HumphreeTM is

Setting a new standard in trim & stabilization. Again. Priced for 20-45ft boats.

No

electric, sterndrive, inboard—this new system will be the perfect choice for new build boats or for when you refit a used boat. It will take you to the next level.

Setting a new standard in trim & stabilization. Again. Priced for 20-45ft boats.

ADMIRAL

BOATS PROUDLY UNVEILS LATEST MASTERPIECE

Waikato Boat Builder Admiral Boats recently proudly unveiled its latest masterpiece, the Admiral 10m Sport Fisher, equipped with Volvo Penta's cutting-edge Joystick docking and thruster control and Humphrees lightning trim system.

Designed to revolutionize the boating experience, this collaboration brings together Admiral Boats' renowned craftsmanship and Volvo Penta's and Humphrees’ innovative technology. The Admiral 10m Sport Fisher embodies new transom and cockpit mouldings, with a self-draining cockpit, live bait tank, tuna tubes and full teak coamings, offering anglers and enthusiasts a step up in comfort and fishability out on the water.

With Volvo Penta's Joystick manoeuvring system, navigating through tight spaces, backing up on gamefish and docking becomes effortless and precise. This intuitive system seamlessly integrates propulsion, thrusters, and steering, allowing captains to manoeuvre with ease, regardless of environmental conditions.

Steve Clement of Admiral Boats commented, "We are always thrilled to partner with Volvo Penta on our boats and to introduce the new 10m Sport Fisher, setting the standard in boating excellence, with the integration of Volvo Penta's Joystick manoeuvring, our customers can enjoy a seamless and exhilarating boating experience like never before."

Experience the epitome of luxury and innovation with the Admiral Boats 10m Sport Fisher, now available for order.

MAXTEK MARINE HYDRAULIC STEERING

EVIDENT AT RECENT HUTCHWILCO NZ BOAT SHOW

At the recent Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show, the increasing prevalence of boats equipped with maXtek Marine hydraulic steering was noticeably evident. However, what many boat owners may not be aware of is that maXtek is a true New Zealand brand, representing a remarkable testament to New Zealand's ingenuity and success.

MaXtek Marine emerged in 2014 with a mission to revolutionize outboard motor steering, driven by a commitment to address prevalent issues expressed by boatbuilders. Extensive market research and collaboration with industry experts led maXtek to identify key challenges such as poor-quality hoses, electrolysis, pitting and hydraulic seal leaks. These insights spurred the development of a steering system engineered specifically to overcome these obstacles.

Designed for durability and optimal performance, maXtek marine steering components are sourced from the engineering giants of South Korea and Japan. From its humble inception as an unknown product in 2014, maXtek swiftly

gained traction within the boating industry, owing to its superior quality and ease of installation.

By 2017, maXtek marine achieved a significant milestone as leading boatbuilders such as Smuggler and Huntsman began fitting maXtek steering to all their boats. The system's versatility, with easily adaptable kits and customizable hose lengths during installation, garnered praise from boatbuilders. The endorsement by prominent boatbuilders paved the way for further success. By 2019, maXtek was selected for new DOC vessels and became the preferred choice for a major water taxi service operating 27 commercial boats.

Expanding beyond New Zealand's shores, maXtek made a strategic move

into Australia in March 2023 through an exclusive distribution partnership. This move ensured aftermarket support for dealers and boat owners, considering the increasing number of NZ-built boats exported to Australia. Looking forward, maXtek remains committed to innovation and expansion, with plans to attend METSTRADE 2024 and forge new partnerships globally. With a wide range of hydraulic steering kits, including the highperformance 700hp Workhorse model, twin helm stations, and seamless integration with Yamaha, Mercury, and Suzuki internal hydraulic steering, maXtek continues to set the standard for reliability, performance, and ease of use in the boating industry.

DE ANTONIO

D50 COUPÉAUSTRALIAN BOAT SHOW DEBUT

Emanating strength and boldness with her stunning gun-metal grey hull, beautifully complimented by her vibrant orange upholstery, the De Antonio D50 Coupé, stands out for her stylised superstructure, incorporating a modern, sporty look to reflect her highperformance capability.

Having been appointed dealers for the De Antonio Yachts range in late 2023, Alexander Marine was delighted to host the Australian Boat Show Debut of the Spanish-designed luxury day yacht at the recent Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

Founded in 2012 in Barcelona, Spain, the De Antonio brand has made a name for itself with its distinctive range of outboard-

power craft and has quickly risen to one of the leading brands of the day yacht market, incorporating the most advanced technologies in design, engineering and construction. De Antonio Yachts are practical, spacious and low maintenance. Most notably, the hidden outboard propulsion is simple to own and operate and provides amazing shallow draft capability.

“Complementing the diverse Alexander Marine range of inboard powered yachts across the world-class brands were present, De Antonio Yachts is the perfect fit for many of our customers with the continued growth of the outboard-powered day yacht market sector”, said Alexander Marine Dealer Principal /Director Todd Holzapfel. The flagship De Antonio 50 Coupé received the recent Best of Boats 2023 ‘Best For Family’ award and represents an

ENJOY

HASSLE-FREE BOATING WITH A MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTION

Plan your dream day out on the water and reserve your boat of choice through the Skipperi app. Skipperi offers the world’s easiest way to enjoy boating. With a monthly subscription, gain access to our fleet of 25 new, fullyequipped Haines Hunter motorboats without the hassle of ownership. Find us at Gulf Harbour, Half Moon Bay, and Westhaven Marina.

advancement in the 50ft range, including the finest features of its counterpart, the D50Open. Whether you are looking for a sporty & sophisticated day yacht, or a tender for your superyacht, the De Antonio range is a must-see. "he said. The main objective of the De Antonio yacht range is to maximize space–on deck as well as in the interior.

While the Alexander Marine stock De Antonio 50 Coupé is powered by twin 600hp Verado engines, the transom can also accommodate various quad-rigged engine combinations using Mercury’s 300hp,350hp or 400hp Verado quad combinations for buyers that have a specific engine model preference. The De Antonio D50 is available in both Coupé and Open models.

NZ BOAT, FISH & DIVE EXPO

IS BACK!

31 AUGUST TO 1 SEPTEMBER

Between 2002 and 2011 the Waikato region treasured having The Boat, Fishing and Leisure Show, which at its peak attracted just under 23,000 attendees! For 12 years now the region has not had the privilege to enjoy such an event, so after many requests, the region will have its very own boat show once again in the form of......The NZ Boat, Fish and Dive Expo which will be held from the 31st August - 1st September 2024 at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Hamilton!

If you are in any shape or form interested in any water based sports from boating to fishing, diving, spearfishing, kayaking, wakeboarding, skiing, jet skiing, seafood or the culinary preparation of it, then this is one event you won’t want to miss!

Mystery Creek Events Centre is a worldclass, purpose-built, all-weather event venue with 8,000m2 of indoor exhibition space for this event. With unlimited FREE

parking, ease of access into the venue, close proximity to the new expressway and literally two minutes from Hamilton Airport makes it easy travelling for anyone living within 2 hours of this amazing venue location and also anyone wishing to fly in from further afield so get ready for an epic weekend celebration of all things on, in or under the water!!

back into helping the boating and fishing communities.

This year they are implementing fundraising initiatives for some very important charity organisations in New Zealand that contribute so much to the Fishing and Boating Communities - The NZ Coastguard, Wish 4 Fish and Legasea. Supporting entities like this is extremely important given that these organisations rely so heavily on donations and support to be able to achieve the fantastic work that they do, so come along to the event, support these organisations and fundraising initiatives that ultimately go

Buy a ticket to the NZ Boat, Fish & Dive Expo 31 Aug & 1 Sept 2024 at Mystery Creek Event Centre Hamilton and go in the draw to WIN an awesome door prize valued at $22,000!!!....An epic 7-day Fiordland Adventure for 4 people with the Get Wet Waikato crew onboard the vessel Legacy! A once-in-a-lifetime trip filled with incredible diving, fishing, hunting, amazing scenery, scrumptious seafood dinners and of course lots of laughs and good times!....Plus every ticket purchased online goes into the draw to WIN $1000 to spend at the NZ Boat, Fish & Dive Expo!

NZBOATFISHDIVEEXPO.CO.NZ

GUARDIAN TRAILERS - RAPID RESPONSE FLOOD RESCUE VESSEL

A new brand brought to you by Transformarine Naval Architects and the team at Dreadnort Boats. In a nutshell, the Guardian Trailer is a boat and road-registered trailer all in one.

Powered by a jet outboard for shallow water running, there is no leg and propeller to catch up on fencing or injure persons in the water. Built of 5083 marine grade aluminium with five compartments and 2607 litres of intact buoyancy, this vessel gives better survivability than its RIB counterparts. A bow door with steps allows easy access from the water or wheelchair access. The wheels articulate electrically, it has inboard

WIN THE ULTIMATE FILLETING STATION

Firefish Fabrication recently celebrated their 5th birthday ... but want to give you the presents!

suspension and a down over-centre-lock for trailering on the road. With an all up mass of around 600kg there is no requirement for trailer braking and it can be towed by most vehicles with a towbar. Having the trailer built-in for emergency applications allows the launch vehicle to be unencumbered by a trailer. The vessel after launching can travel hundreds of kilometres in any direction, and be retrieved by any vehicle with a towbar.

This vessel/vehicle is scalable in size, larger units will inherit stainless steel disc brakes and will be offered with a wider bow door to load quad-bikes.

*Keep an eye out in the next PowerBoat Magazine for a full boat review.

TRANSFORMARINE.COM

GUARDIANTRAILERS.CO.NZ

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NEW AZIMUT MAGELLANO 25 METRI FOR NZ BUYER

A new Azimut Magellano 25 Metri has been sold to a New Zealand buyer, with the stylish Italian passagemaker due in Auckland late in 2024.

The second largest model in the Azimut Magellano collection, this yacht has been sold to a repeat Azimut client, and the owners will enjoy a European handover on their new yacht, exploring the Mediterranean for a few weeks, before exporting the boat to New Zealand in time for the Kiwi summer.

The Magellano 25 Metri was created in partnership with the internationally renowned artist and architect Vincenzo De Cotiis, who brings his unmistakable signature style to the interiors, while Ken Freivokh is behind the timeless elegance of the chic and sophisticated exterior lines. The yacht also makes extensive use of carbon fibre and draws on the latest technological developments, including an active air sanitizing system based on a NASA patent and the Hotel Mode option that guarantees prolonged stops at anchor at zero emission.

Furthermore to offer long-range cruising in the utmost comfort and safety, even in rough seas, Magellano 25 has been designed with a special fuelefficient Dual Mode hull. The Dual Mode hull, designed by the firm led by Pierluigi Ausonio, ensures safe and comfortable cruising even in rough seas.

The double shaped chine joint with a skeg reduces consumption at different cruising speeds and cushions wave impact. As these features show, Magellano 25 Metri has been designed for long-range cruising even in unfavourable sea and wind conditions. The Magellano 25 is fitted with two MAN engines rated 1,400 horsepower each (or alternatively 1,550 HP), with V-Drive in-line transmission. Stabilization is provided by a Humphree electric fin system. The yacht has a top speed of around 24/25 knots and a cruising speed of 21 knots.

The sale of the Magellano 25 contributes to a trio of larger Azimut’s sold into New Zealand recently. A Magellano 30 Metri arrived in Auckland a year ago, with a Grande 38 Trideck also due to arrive in Auckland later in 2024.

“We are experiencing significant interest in larger Azimut Yachts from New Zealand buyers whether it be for a Mediterranean based yacht or something for New Zealand waters. What is apparent is that nearly all buyers want the ‘Mediterranean handover’ experience which we are happy to facilitate,” says Grant Saunders, dealer principal for Azimut New Zealand. “Being able to enjoy your new yacht offshore in Europe whether it be 50ft or 100ft is an exceptional experience and not something all brands can offer.”

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We specialise not only in helm chairs but also custom made furniture, boat interiors, soft furnishings and all your upholstery needs.

EYACHTS TO SHOWCASE PREMIERES FROM AXOPAR AND PARDO AT SYDNEY BOAT SHOW

Eyachts, industry leaders in dayboats, are set to make a splash at the upcoming Sydney Boat Show with a display featuring premieres from two of the fastest-growing brands worldwide, Axopar and Pardo.

Their latest showcase promises to redefine adventure and luxury on the water, offering enthusiasts a glimpse into the future of boating. The Eyachts display at the Sydney Boat Show will feature an array of premieres, highlighting the latest innovations from Axopar and Pardo. Among the debuts are:

1. Axopar 29 Sun Top

The Axopar 29 Sun Top goes further than ever before to redefine adventure, comfort, and functionality with its multifunctional design and exceptional value. Boasting more versatility and thrilling performance, this game-changing offering from Axopar combines agility with stability, offering unparalleled comfort even in challenging conditions. Its innovative features such as the opening Sun Top roof provides sun protection without sacrificing the open-air experience and sunshine. The forward cabin offers ample storage, a head, and a sink, and can convert into a cosy sleeping area. The social bow area features a spacious U-shaped dining area and convertible sunbed, accommodating up to 7 guests.

2. Axopar 45 Range

Another debut at the show, the Axopar 45 range featuring the Sun Top and Cross Cabin. With smooth, clean surfaces and handsome hull lines, this bold new development brings a 45-foot Axopar to the

range, powered by triple Mercury V8 300 Verado engines, which offers class-leading fuel economy and impressive speeds.

The Axopar 45 Sun Top seamlessly blends open-air exploration with sheltered comfort, with a modern, spacious helm design and sporty aesthetics, it offers unparalleled versatility and a truly immersive driving experience. For those seeking all-weather capability, the Axopar 45 XC Cross Cabin breaks barriers in design and functionality, redefining possibilities on the water. With versatile seating for up to 12 guests, an interior wetbar, and options like U-sofas and an integrated BBQ, it’s optimized for both entertainment and comfort.

*See the full boat review on Page 116 of this issue of PowerBoat Magazine.

3. Pardo 50

An icon of Italian design and sophistication, the Pardo 50 offers luxury on a grand scale. Perfect for entertaining family and guests or relaxing in uncrowded comfort, this fifty-footer feels much larger, delivering performance, elegance, and comfort synonymous with all Pardo yachts.

Also on display will be the Axopar 37 ST, Axopar 37 XC, Axopar 45 XC, Pardo 43, and Pardo 38, along with a curated selection of Eyacht’s broad portfolio, showcasing the breadth of options available to boating enthusiasts. "We're thrilled to present these premieres from Axopar and Pardo at the Sydney Boat Show," said Peter Hrones, Eyachts Founder. "These vessels embody innovation, luxury, and performance, offering a taste of the ultimate in cuttingedge boating. We invite attendees to visit our display and experience the excitement first hand." Eyachts will uniquely be offering sea trials during the show for those interested in the Axopar range.

EYACHTS.COM.AU

THE NEW CATALYST GT - VERY CLOSE TO LAUNCH

The new Catalyst GT is nearing its launch following a client's request to Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders.

This model refines the superstructure of America’s Cup boats into a gentlemen’s fast commuter style reminiscent of 1920s and 30s elegance. It is set to debut in just a few months as a high-speed luxury guest transfer vessel and water sports tender commissioned for a Caribbean private resort.

Currently, two Catalysts are under construction at Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders. Each one is entirely custom-built, emphasizing the builder's capability to handle diverse projects simultaneously. Originally designed as chase boats for Emirates Team New Zealand, Catalysts by Morelli & Melvin are renowned for their high performance and versatility, serving as superyacht tenders and recreational boats with exceptional handling and ride quality.

The Catalyst GT exemplifies this customizability, tailored for highspeed luxury guest transfers and water sports. It features seating for 30 guests and a reinforced bow for beach landings, equipped with deployable beach landing stairs. The 45 ft (13.75 m) vessel is outfitted to superyacht standards with 4 x 300 h.p. Yamaha outboard motors, capable of speeds exceeding 50 knots.

This model showcases Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders' expertise in meeting bespoke requirements, offering custom cabin layouts, premium finishes, and advanced electronics. With its unique design inspired by classic commuter boats, the Catalyst GT represents a blend of tradition and cutting-edge maritime technology, poised to set new standards in luxury marine transportation.

LLOYDSTEVENSONYACHTS.CO.NZ

Integrity Motor Yachts were thrilled to showcase the world premiere of their stunning 520SX Plus, along with the exciting 470CE Plus and the popular 380SX. The response at the recent Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show was incredible.

The new 520SX Plus, with its incredible volume and unbeatable value, proved to be the must-see of the show. Featuring a sleek, modern design and the innovative 'Plus' planing hull, it offers exceptional speed, stability, and fuel efficiency. Its spacious interiors and unrivalled features made it incredibly popular among attendees.

The exciting new Integrity 470CE Plus, another standout at the Show. This innovative yacht features enhanced stability and efficiency with its cutting-edge design. The spacious interiors and luxurious amenities provide the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, making the 470CE Plus a must-see for boating enthusiasts.

Explore the popular Integrity 380SX, showcased at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. This yacht seamlessly blends modern luxury with classic design, featuring a spacious saloon filled with natural light and two large cabins, including a master suite. With exceptional seakeeping, wide walk-around decks, and economical cruising, the 380SX offers unforgettable experiences on the water.

VICEM UNVEILS THE TUNA MASTERS 37 EXPRESS

A dedicated Sportsfisher and a comfortable Cabin Cruiser.

Introducing the first model in a planned new series the Vicem Tuna Masters 37 CC and its new Express sibling. Vicem adds the

37 Express version to the 37 CC launched in 2023, the entry-level model of Vicem’s new Tuna Masters series.

The 37 Express uses the same impressive hull and sportsfisher features of the centre-console but adds a spacious lower accommodation level. Triple Mercurys deliver a 46-knot top speed and a 38-knot cruise, perfect for family cruising and for getting to and from fishing grounds. The accommodation includes plenty of storage and boasts 6’ 6” headroom.

What do you get when you combine a boatbuilder known for high-quality hulls

and interiors and a legendary American naval architect? The result is simple – a brilliantly designed and highly practical sportsfisher that excels both in serious offshore angling and as a fun platform for family and friends. Coming hot on the heels of the centre console 37 CC model which made its debut in 2023, the new Vicem 37 Express draws on the same characteristics that make the original the perfect boat for trips out with the family and for serious fishing, but adds the practicality of a full lower cabin and a more cruiser-style cockpit.

LEIGH-SMITH.CO

HOT PRODUCTS - HOT PRODUCTS

ENGEL BP25 HIGHPERFORMANCE BACKPACK COOLER

Designed for optimal performance and convenience.

The Engel BP25 High-Performance Backpack Cooler sets itself apart with welded seams, ensuring durability and 3.5-day ice retention. Its 840 denier outer shell with Thermal Plastic Urethane film provides strength and puncture resistance. Featuring a roll-top closure for a watertight seal, it offers three carrying options and comfort with foam padding and ventilated straps. With 25-quart capacity, 3-day ice retention, and added features like a bottle opener and vacuum valve technology, it’s designed for optimal performance and convenience.

ENGELNEWZEALAND.CO.NZ

COBB GRILL

The world’s most versatile portable outdoor cooker.

Cook anything, anywhere. Cobb Grill brings cooking convenience to outdoor adventures. More than just a portable BBQ, the COBB is an oven, smoker, fryer and more. The base always remains cool-to-touch on the outside whilst cooking hot on the inside. This allows you to cook on any surface safely with no heat transfer. Ideal for use on boats, the tailgate of your car, your favourite campsite, or even just at home. Built to last and light enough to take anywhere (5kg), this sturdy, stainless steel cooking system is a dream to use and maintain. convenient 230g/445g non-refillable disposable gas canister (Up to 9 hours cooking time on the 445g canister!), the COBB Grill Gas cooking system allows you to cook anything, anywhere, anytime. With COBB accessories that allow you to smoke, bake, fry, boil, grill and roast – your cooking options are endless.

COBBGRILLNZ.CO.NZ

SALTATTACK SALT REMOVER 500ML TRIGGER SPRAY

Removes salt off any surface. Wash down and protect your fishing, spearfishing, dive gear, and all your other toys exposed to salt spray. The premium Salt Attack Salt Remover quickly removes salt, leaving a streak-free finish. Safe on all surfaces including fibreglass, aluminium and other metals, rubber, vinyl and waxed surfaces. This salt remover uses the finest ingredients, including the latest blend of bio-based surfactants, chelating agents and corrosion inhibitors that quickly eliminate surface tension allowing for salt to be quickly and safely removed from all surfaces. Even the harshest salt accumulations are no match for Salt Attack.

SALT-ATTACK.NZ

ULTIMARE EARS’ EPICBOOM

A wireless, Bluetooth portable party speaker. Ultimate Ears’ EPICBOOM will ensure that the tunes are pumping and the vibes are high while out on the water. Tough enough to survive drops up to 1m, a battery life of 17-hours and the ability to float in water, the EPICBOOM is sure to be a boaty’s best friend. Another EPIC win? This portable, BluetoothⓇ speaker is made of 100% post-consumer recycled polyester fabric and a minimum of 59% post-consumer recycled plastic to give a second life to end-of-use plastic from consumer electronics.

ULTIMATEEARS.COM/EN-NZ

HOT PRODUCTS - HOT PRODUCTS

HUTCHWILCO 170N LIFE JACKET

Designed in NZ for NZ conditions.

The latest Hutchwilco 170N inflatable lifejacket has been designed in New Zealand by Hutchwilco specifically for New Zealand’s unique marine conditions. Continuing on the success of the 150N Super Comfort Series, Hutchwilco have strived to maintain comfort and increased buoyancy for an even better wearing and performing inflatable lifejacket. The new 170N inflatable lifejacket features ARS technology which is an Advanced Roll Over System with a 170N asymmetric bladder for superior self-righting and head up support.

HUTCHWILCO.CO.NZ

PEPPER & ME

Making cooking an adventure filled with flavour, creativity and ease

Pepper & Me is a Tauranga-based company committed to simplifying your cooking experience and elevating your meals to new heights. Drawing inspiration from a decade of culinary expertise and a love for exploring global flavours, they’ve crafted a range of spice pastes, seasoning blends, spiced salts, and accessories. Our mission is to show you just how effortless it can be to transform basic ingredients into extraordinary culinary creations, even amidst the chaos of busy schedules and family life. With Pepper & Me, cooking becomes an adventure filled with flavour, creativity, and ease. Let them guide you on a journey where every meal is a celebration of deliciousness.

PEPPERANDME.CO.NZ

QUADLOCK 360

Customise your phone mount to suit your boat. Quad Lock’s 360 is a solution that enables you to customise a phone mount to suit your active lifestyle, including boating. With over 200 combinations, you can now tailor your phone mount to your exact needs, ensuring your device stays securely in place during every boating adventure. The Quad Lock 360 range allows users to construct their ideal mount using a variety of bases, arms, and heads. This allows for a customised fit that aligns perfectly with your boat and viewing preferences. Whether you require a flush mount for the console or a flexible arm for the handlebars, Quad Lock has you covered.

QUADLOCKCASE.NET/COLLECTIONS/SHOP-MARINE

GEAR HUGGER

Now available in New Zealand, Gear Hugger cleans, restores, lubricates and protects without harming the planet thanks to an eco-friendly formula that is plant-based and non-toxic.

You can use Gear Hugger on all metals like aluminium, copper, brass and steel. It can be used on high density rubber and plastic, and most man-made surfaces such as linoleum, MDF and countertops and can be used to polish most wooden surfaces. Gear Hugger products are free from petroleum, PTFE, VOCs and other toxins so they are biodegradable and safe to use around pets, kids and gear-loving grown-ups.

TENOB.CO.NZ

HOT PRODUCTS - HOT PRODUCTS

STOPGULL GOES BIG!

Problems caused by birds don’t occur just on watercraft. Recognising that other areas also need protection, StopGull has created a much larger bird-scare device, suitable for installation in places where extra coverage is needed. Called the StopGull Arana Bird Scarer, the unit has 12 wands, rotates, and covers an area of two metres with absolute stealth and noise free. The wands are thin fiberglass whips with stainless ends that mount into a hi tech Delrin material rotary hub with stainless steel base for mounting purposes. If you have had enough of birds being a pest… Go Big! – Get the Stopgull Arana Birds scarer.

TENOB.CO.NZ

COAST’S NEW NAUTILUS BEAN BAG

For boats, decks, resorts and around the pool.

COAST New Zealand has launched a new addition to its revered Marine Bean Collection; the new Nautilus comes nearly 20 years after the company launched the Marine Bean Collection®, which is renowned for its superior quality and understated style for around pools, deck and aboard boats. The new Nautilus style is a smaller, streamlined version of the Marine Bean Chair. It is the perfect size to use on any boats from boats, in fact, any smaller areas where space is at a premium. Being easy to carry, stack and move around, the Nautilus is also an excellent option to take to the beach for the day. As with all COAST products, The Nautilus is made in New Zealand from Sunbrella® fabric which carries a 5-year exterior and lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. COAST products are renowned for lasting many, many years in the marine environment and come with many 5-star reviews from loyal clients around the globe. Sand, salt and extended exposure to sunshine and chlorine are not an issue for the Marine Bean collection.

COASTNEWZEALAND.COM

THE FISHING KNIFE REMOVING GHOST NETS FROM OUR OCEANS

Did you know there is enough fishing line abandoned each year to wrap around the equator 400 times, and enough abandoned fishing nets to cover the entirety of Scotland? Drifting for years, these ghost nets terrorise everything in their path, from marine life to the marine environment. Nothing is safe. To help untangle this problem, NZ brand, The Ironclad Co. has created the first-ever range of knives with 100% discarded fishing net handles - Ghost Net Knives. The commercial-grade knife range, made in partnership with 97-yearold knife maker Victory Knives, uses fishing nets recovered from nearshore areas of the ocean and every knife sold will haul a further 1kg of discarded fishing nets from the oceans. There are 4 knives in the range. They are perfect for fishing enthusiasts who care about our marine life.

IRONCLADPAN.COM

RAILBLAZA GEAR HUB

Your Ultimate Companion for Tackle Organization. Robust storage for anglers. Features include:-

• 4 x Internal Rod Holders

• Holds 8 x Plano 3600 Tackle Boxes

• 9 x Integrated Accessory Tracks

• Multiple Tie-Down Points

• Rod and Reel Tethers Included

• Recessed Hand Holds

• Slip-Reducing Rubber Feet

• Made from Recycled Material*

• Light Weight, less than 6lbs (<2.75kg)

• LxWxH 13x13x13” (330x330x330mm)

• Made in New Zealand with a 5-Year Warranty

RAILBLAZA.COM

The Ultimate Cruising Yacht

Fleming Yachts represent the point at which adventure and luxury converge. From the efficient performance that offers unmatched range, to the durability of the construction, to the impeccable comfort found throughout our interiors, Fleming is the Ultimate Cruising Yacht.

Learn why at FlemingYachts.com/Research

HONDA & ROBALO TEAMED UP TO LAUNCH NEW 350HP AT SCIBS

One of the biggest and most anticipated new product launch at SCIBS this year was the all-new Honda 350 HP V8, along with another debut, Robalo ‘s first ever East Coast showing of their award winning R317 Dual Console.

Robalo and Honda teamed up, installing twin white 350 V8’s to the transom of Robalo’s bestselling R317, complete with Optimist joystick steering, and Garmin electronics.

‘We were excited to present what we believe is the ultimate crossover package, and the best way to show off the attributes of the all-new Honda flagship motor’, said Scott O’Hare from Robalo Australia. ‘I was privileged to be the first Australian to see and drive one of the new Honda 350’s at its world debut in Genoa, Italy late last year, he said. I was so impressed with the performance, particularly with the aggressive torque and importantly how quiet and vibration free they were, that I made the decision to be involved in the launch of the new motor here’. Mr O’Hare said that he felt it was important to have a high displacement boat to really demonstrate the performance of the new engines.

‘The Robalo will come in at about five tonnes with fuel and passengers, so it is the perfect boat to show what 700hp can do’, ‘there have been 350hp outboards available for a few years now, but nothing like this’, he said.

MARINE.HONDA.COM.AU | ROBALO.COM

MERCURY MARINE LAUNCHES ALL-NEW MERCRUISER T8200

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), have recently introduced the all-new MerCruiser® T8200 Tow Sport inboard.

The engine is built on Mercury’s successful 8.2L V8 big-block platform and includes Smart Tow® digital control systems to transform the biggest water sports boats into the ultimate adrenaline machines. The T8200 joins the T6200 in the Tow Sport line-up, reinforcing Mercury’s commitment to providing marine propulsion solutions for all recreational boaters and activities.

“Watersports such as wake surfing continue to grow in popularity, with today’s boaters demanding bigger boats with more features and amenities,” said John Buelow, Mercury

Marine president. “To deliver what boaters in this segment want and power a new generation of fun seekers, we created the T8200 Tow Sport inboard, backed by 50 years of engineering excellence that have made MerCruiser the legend it is today.” T8200 Tow Sport inboard features include:

• High-Horsepower Performance Available in 380hp and 430hp high output models, the T8200 is built on Mercury’s successful 8.2L V8 bigblock engine platform and runs on 87-octane fuel.

• Class-Leading Torque - Tow sport performance is all about torque, and the T8200 generates more torque than

any engine in its class. The engine is paired with a 1.73:1 gear ratio transmission that’s optimized for tow sport performance.

• SmartCraft Technology - The T8200 leverages Mercury Smart Tow and Surf Control technologies to combine speed, ballast and wake management on a VesselView display.

• Engine Guardian - Boaters can stay out longer with confidence knowing that the Mercury Engine Guardian system is at work. The system monitors engine performance with more than 40 sensors to detect potential problems early.

• Corrosion Prevention - MerCruiser® Tow Sport inboards feature premium corrosion-preventive technologies to help keep equipment looking and performing at its peak.

• The inboards are backed with an industry-leading 4-year corrosion warranty.

SUCCESS

After nine months of development, there is a quiet (literally) revolution taking place on the Adriatic Sea. It is here that, from a marina in Punat, Croatia, the ground-breaking D 32 c-Ultra RIB from electric boating pioneers eD-TEC is making waves as it undergoes its first phase of sea trials.

The 9.5-metre RIB boasts a beam of 3.3 metres and a total weight of 2.3 tons, but the true innovation comes in her propulsion system. At its heart is eD-TEC’s revolutionary Technology Stack, linked to its twin plug-and-play eD-QDrive 200kW propulsion units that drive surface-piercing propellers. Underpinning the system oneD-Enterpriseis a battery bank with a net capacity of 105kWh. The whole system is a blank-sheet design that is setting new standards in the industry. Performance has already been impressive–eD-Enterprise displays nearly 40 nautical miles of range at low speed in idle mode, and then at 30kW the surface drives start breathing an immediate boost to 20 knots, with all the theatre of the trademark rooster tail.

“We have not yet conducted assessments to determine the maximum attainable speed and range,” confirms Michael Jost, founder of eD-TECand former Chief Strategy Officer at the VW Group, “Preliminary estimates indicate a range of 20 to 40 nautical miles and a current cruising speed of 25 knots. However, these figures are subject to variation based on driving behaviour and velocity. Following optimisation, the anticipated cruising speed is expected to reach approximately 30 knots.

"As is the case at every stage of developing an entirely new drive system and an entirely new platform for it, being a pioneer also brings the challenges of ambition versus reality. “We thought we could reach more with our first proper sea trials, but at the same time we see a lot of clear fields of improvement,” Michael Jost enthuses. “Having said that, the boat is really nice and has already proven itself–and we have had a lot of interest in the marina out of which we are testing. “The eD-32 c-Ultra is not the end of the story but actually just the first stage of an entire e-mobility and grid-free solution, and we will shortly share more details of the big picture,”Jost teases.

Q-SPD.COM

Volvo Penta is subjecting its all-new Volvo Penta IPS Professional Platform to thousands of hours of virtual and on-water tests to secure its launch in 2025. The goal is to ensure the platform exceeds expectations with an unparalleled, high-performance experience.

On the Swedish waters of Volvo Penta’s Krossholmen Test Centre, the company is extensively testing the Volvo Penta IPS Professional Platform and setting new standards to examine and refine the offer. The goal is to ensure the system is market-ready and delivers the ultimate experience at sea through flexibility, reliability, and performance.

A crucial element of this rigorous approach to on-water testing is a vessel called Penta 40. This 37 m, 199-passenger ferry navigated the challenging waters of the Norwegian seas for nearly two decades before it was retired. Volvo Penta brought the ferry back to life by repowering it with the Volvo Penta IPS Professional Platform. Volvo Penta is testing the system to a level that marine platforms seldom see with thousands of hours logged so far. This includes stringent trials of the system’s fully integrated helm-toprop experience, such as its intelligent dual power drive system, smart power sources, and integrated technologies.

Engineered with efficiency at its core, the Volvo Penta IPS Professional Platform sets a new standard in the industry. Its intelligent Eco Mode feature is being tested extensively – a feature that automatically starts/stops individual engines based on the power needed, optimizing engine performance and fuel consumption. Volvo Penta has tested the system aboard the Penta 40 vessel for more than 10,000 hours. This includes on-water tests, endurance rig trials, component fatigue tests, and computeraided simulations that scrutinize every aspect of the system’s efficiency, flexibility, and intelligent features.

In line with the platform’s innovation, Volvo Penta has expanded its testing approach to include a digital dimension. "We are conducting extensive virtual testing of the Volvo Penta IPS Professional Platform, utilizing a unique digital twin of the system," said Petter Andolf, chief project manager at Volvo Penta. "This virtual testing has enabled us to achieve 9,000 hours of computer-aided testing so far, supporting our efforts to enhance product quality and features and provide greater flexibility for engineers during the test and development phase. Ultimately, this will shorten our time to market.”

VOLPOWER.CO.NZ

ZEROJET SHARES LATEST EXCITING NEWS AN ELECTRIC OUTBOARD WITH GRUNT

ZeroJet is very excited to share its latest news. They have created something epic – an electric outboard with grunt, stating no other electric outboard can match the performance of their 20kW (25hp equivalent) outboard.

ZeroJet believes they create the best-performing electric jet propulsion systems in the world. The same proven electric technology that is in production and loved by their customers in their jet systems has been adapted to suit the universal application and ease of an outboard.

“Unseen power-to-weight: no other 48V electric outboard can match the performance of our 20kW (25hp equivalent) electric outboard. The ZeroJet Outboard packs the highest power-toweight ratio of any existing alternative on the market, effortlessly getting a vessel onto the plane”.

What’s more impressive is that this system weighs only 38kg and runs on a 48V architecture, making it safe for all marine enthusiasts.

There will be plenty more information to come. Place a refundable deposit to reserve your spot in line. Available worldwide.

MERCURY LAUNCHES THE NEXT GENERATION OF AVATOR - 75E AND 110E

Following successful previews earlier this year at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas and the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, Mercury Marine, have officially launched the Avator 75e and 110e electric outboards, expanding the range of its award-winning electric propulsion series.

Designed to power bigger sustainable adventures on the water these new models are the latest to join Mercury’s all-electric propulsion lineup, which also includes the Avator 7.5e, 20e and 35e. The Avator 75e and 110e electric outboards are poised to be Mercury’s most powerful and capable models to date, promising boaters unparalleled performance. “We are proud of all the recognition we have received for our Avator electric outboards to date, and we are excited to introduce our most powerful new models yet,” said John Buelow, Mercury Marine President.

A standout feature of the Avator 75e and 110e is the industry-first transverse flux motor technology. The Avator 75e generates 7,500W the equivalent of a 10hp engine, while the 110e generates 11,000W of power at the prop shaft comparable to a 15hp outboard. Both models are available with digital remote controls for boats with console steering. They both come with a pre-installed Mercury SmartCraft Connect module that wirelessly connects the outboard to the Mercury Marine app on a smart device. This app allows users to monitor range, battery state of charge and other performance data.

It also features a GPS map with visualised range estimates for planning trips.

MERCURYMARINE.COM

RAYMARINE’S CLEVER NEW COLLABORATION WITH EPROPULSION

Acollaboration between electric motor manufacturer ePropulsion and marine electronics specialists Raymarine means boaties will be able to display the engine data from their ePropulsion motors directly onto Raymarine’s Axiom MFD displays, without the need for any additional gateways or interface boxes.

This seamless integration means ePropulsion owners will be able to monitor data and status updates, such as battery level, speed, gear and estimated range, directly onto their Axiom’s engine dashboard application. In addition, a smart dynamic range ring overlay on the chartplotter display will make it easy for boaties to instantly know their current cruising range, and enable

them to optimise their energy consumption.

This clever new functionality is available on ePropulsion’s innovative X Series outboards and I-Series inboard motors and follows the release of Raymarine’s new 4.6 LightHouse operating system for Axiom MFDs, which is the first to support electric motor PGN messages, along with ePropulsion’s adoption of the new NMEA 2000 standards for electric engines.

Mark Milburn, CEO of New Zealand Raymarine distributor Lusty & Blundell, says the collaboration is a real win for

ADVANCE TRIDENT APPOINTED AS

DISTRIBUTOR

FOR LUMITEC

Advance Trident has recently been appointed as a distributor for Lumitec, one of the world’s leading marine lighting brands.

Made in the USA, Lumitec offers a complete range of marine LED lighting for above and underwater use. Lumitec’s Digital Lighting Control Integration allows users to control their lighting seamlessly through their MFD.

The Lumitec lighting range includes, but is not limited to:

• Underwater Lights

• Down Lights

• Flood Lights

• Courtesy Lights

• Utility Lights

• Navigation Lights

• Lighting Control Modules

Lumitec’s PICO and POCO modules let you control your Lumitec lights through traditional switches, as well as through most modern MFDs from all of your favourite brands, providing seamless integration and keeping your dash clutter-free. Choose from white, red, blue, or the full RGBW spectrum when selecting your Lumitec lighting. The possibilities are endless, and the lights can even be configured to change colour in time with your sound system. Talk to the knowledgeable team at Advance Trident to find a Lumitec Lighting system that suits your boat today. ADVANCETRIDENT.COM

owners of ePropulsion engines.“Thanks to the way Raymarine engineers have been able to incorporate all of the vital data from the motors, ePropulsion owners will be able to enjoy a seamless and intuitive engine data display right where they want it on their Axiom displays.

LUSTY-BLUNDELL.CO.NZ

A HAPPY BOAT

I’m a major fan of boating courses – I’ve done heaps of them: Boat Skipper, Coastal Skipper, Ocean Skipper, Boat Owners’ Diesel Maintenance Course (twice), Radio Operator’s, Offshore Medical – but there’s one course they don’t run: how to run a happy boat.

Way back when I did my Coastal Skipper, a group of us in the class needed sea-time so I chartered a 35ft yacht for a long weekend. What a disaster. The weather wasn’t great, but the real problem was that we just didn’t get on well as a crew.

Clearly, I had the wrong people onboard. Not to be daunted, I passed the exams and chartered another boat with another group of friends. The weather was great, but it was another disaster. Again, I had the wrong people onboard. Tough luck, huh?

But, still, I was determined. Another yacht charter, another group of friends, some awful weather. I wouldn’t say it was another disaster but in an honest appraisal, one of the crew said, ‘I’ve never seen you like that before. You were constantly second-guessing yourself.’ ‘Oh,’ I said. ‘I was trying to be democratic, asking everyone what they wanted. I didn’t want to come across as a dictator.’

‘On a boat, we need clear instructions. It gives us confidence in the skipper.’ I took that to heart when I bought my yacht.

Many years later, I have my launch. As covered previously in this column, it has been a steeper learning curve than expected, but I am making progress. In January this year, I took a friend away, a woman who has spent time on boats but she wouldn’t call herself experienced. She was fabulous. Every dock-on, dock-off, refuelling, picking up a

A row of boats in Queen Charlotte Sound, happily in place on their bow and stern moorings.

mooring or anchoring was immaculate. She even said, ‘You’re doing all the boat stuff, so I am going to do all the cooking.’ She’s a great cook, so this was perfect.

Another cruise, another friend, also with limited experience. Again, it went great. As we approached a manoeuvre, I’d run through how I intended to execute it and her role in making it happen. We had a clear understanding that on final approach, there was no other conversation except the manoeuvre. I love girl-talk, but not two seconds out from pick-up. At the end of the cruise, we had aced every manoeuvre. Yay! Not so fast. My next guest was an experienced powerboater, the same person who had coached me on second guessing 30 years previously. We stuffed up nearly every on-and-off the dock manoeuvre, picking up a stern mooring, even rafting up to another boat became a cat’s cradle. All of them were my fault. I always say that because then I can change it. In hindsight, I probably assumed that he could read my mind.

In the end, he was a hero. We were on a mooring when a vintage motorsailer came in to lie between two moorings to lie sternto into the cliff. I had met the boat a few weeks previously and knew its skipper was an old salt in his 80s. Right now, though, something seemed amiss, so I rowed over. He had a rope around the prop.

I took a line to the stern mooring so he could lie stern-to, then headed back to my boat for crew, masks and snorkels. Back at

the motorsailer, the rope and the propeller had clearly been involved in a dance of forward and reverse gear as the skipper attempted to free the rope. There were tight turns and loose swirls around the shaft and the lovely curving blades of his big propeller.

‘It can’t be done without a dive tank,’ I said. ‘Easy,’ my crew said.

The motorsailer was about 40ft with a wide beam all the way aft and a full, deep draft keel so the propeller seemed awfully far from the surface. I had just discovered I could hold my breath for three seconds, max. Where’s world champion free diver William Trubridge when you need him?

As we worked, we both got better at holding our breath and took turns to pull, wriggle and cut the rope free. A big stingray cruised past. I was by far the lesser contributor to clearing that rope. I doubt I could have cleared it on my own, well, maybe over two days. Just as we surfaced with the last piece of rope, a couple of guys and a soppy old labrador dog arrived on a small mussel farm boat. The skipper hadn’t told us he’d called his mates because he didn’t know how long it would be before they showed up. The guys gave him lots of stick about ropes around propellers while I patted their dog.

Moral of the story? I have no idea. Probably something about how as boaties we never stop learning from our mistakes and, much preferred, from someone else’s.

INSPIRATION & FRUSTRATION

They say aspiring writers get inspiration from good writers, who in turn, get their inspiration from great writers. In that vein, I am cutting both corners and going straight to a really great writer.

Rebecca Hayter wrote an illuminating story in Powerboat Magazine’s last edition about gas installations in NZ (and Australian) craft. Our two countries have almost the same standards for gas and electrical installations, with just enough differences to create issues for builders both here and offshore. Combine that with back office boffins, who often rewrite the rules in a knee-jerk reaction to some ‘avoidable’ accident, and keeping up with those changes has created an industry in itself.

Funnily enough, in a very recent ‘out of retirement’ moment, I was selling a Clipper 45 I had built and imported for the current owner in 2010. The surveyor commented the gas installation did not comply with current standards. When we built this boat, much care was taken to ensure the gas install was state of the art - in a sealed locker, draining overboard, and with copper delivery pipe to the oven, probably @ 6M from bottle to stove. A cut-off solenoid, and sniffers in the locker and galley were fitted, plus auto cut-off on the oven burners, should a flame go out. This worked brilliantly until a few years ago, when the sniffers did their job, and killed gas delivery to the cook. Inspections finally revealed the copper pipe had fractured at a bend.

Like Rebecca’s example in her article, the gas fitter employed to remedy this issue was equivocal about copper piping work hardening and cracking over time, even when well supported, especially in a vibratory environment. He replaced the copper with a high-pressure wire-reinforced gas delivery hose, as per his interpretation of the current standards. This change was possibly the issue alluded to in our survey, plus the bottles, snug in their locker, were not strapped in. Kind of like two versions of the Treaty me thinks!

Readers of my drivel may recall a story on Electrical WoFs, and having to install RCDs in the engine room between the batteries and switchboards, even when that switchboard has RCDs.

When importing the Clippers and Explorers from China to NZ, we had to

constantly change the wiring, to comply with the electrical standards that applied at the time. Early models had 12V and 240V New Zealand-manufactured switchboards, installed separately. This followed by a single panel 12V and 240V board, behind a single door. Then we had to have boards, divided and with the 240v side permanently fixed closed, with a separating panel behind the facia, with separate doors for the two systems. Then we split these into two separate switchboards in separate areas. Back to the beginning!

The last Explorer 52 I brought in was perfect until when getting its’ EWOF, the discovery that compliance had changed in the interim twixt build and landing in NZ, and the RCDs fitted to the 240V board now had to be both 12V and 240V, I assume in case the 12V system somehow fed back a current to the 240V board. Nothing another $1500 couldn’t fix, but indicative of how hard it is to keep up. Our sister company in Australia had different compliance issues, so we could not build a ‘standard’ craft for both countries.

With Insurers now demanding that craft be essentially fault-free before they will accept cover, and the advent of both EWOF and Gas Compliance certificate requirements for pleasure boats, many older craft fall foul of these needs when being offered for sale. As

Rebecca wrote, gas bottle installations were a pest in the old days, bottles were put into any orifice that would hold them, and many older craft were wired up by a well-meaning amateur, or a house electrician. Changing lights, navigation instrumentation, and retrofitting gensets, bow thrusters et al, means wiring becomes a mess. Nobody removes redundant wiring, just run new and the electrical system can end up looking like those photos of power lines in some Asian and sub-continent countries.

The modern production craft is pretty well thought out, and well engineered, most using industry-supplied standard equipment, yet they still fall foul of poorly notified changes by those anonymous back office experts.

Another recent article I penned covered surveys, in which I revealed my personal antipathy for ‘moisture meters’ as wielded by all surveyors nowadays. Imagine my barely concealed delight when the surveyor of the Clipper, having checked for moisture levels all over the boat, whilst clambering out of an anchor locker he was far too big for, snagged, caught, juggled, and then lost his moisture meter over the side. They float badly! I sympathise with the costs incurred replacing this device, but a tiny part of me thought this was Karma. A Moisture Meter drowned!

and Supplied Installed

Quality 316 Stainless Steel Made From Full Electric and Hydraulic Options

200KG - Available 1500KG

Options

Single Stage and Fixed Boom

Hydraulic Swim Platforms

Installation Completed at Our Hobsonville Location

CAJUN-SPICED CALAMARI

with Basil & Lime Mayonnaise

INGREDIENTS

500g Squid Tube cut into rounds

¼ Cup Plain Flour

¼ Cup Cornflour

1 x Tsp Cumin

1 x Tsp Ground Coriander

1 x Tsp Curry powder

½ Tsp Dried Chilli Flakes

½ Tsp Sea Salt

Freshly Ground Black Pepper for seasoning

Cocavo Turmeric and Lemon Zest Coconut and Avocado Oil

1 – 2 Tbsp Chopped Parsley

1-2 Cloves Garlic minced or 1 x Tsp crushed Garlic

Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice

Milk or Lemon Juice to marinade

Basil and Lime Mayonnaise

6 fresh Basil lLeaves

Juice of ½ Lime

1 Egg Yolk

½ cup mild flavoured Olive Oil

Pinch of salt and pepper

METHOD

Calamari

1. Clean and cut the squid then place into milk or lemon juice overnight or for 30 minutes prior to cooking (this tenderises it).

2. Combine the flour, cornflour and spice –mix, then place in the calamari rings and toss to coat well.

3. Heat a heavy based fry pan or wok until hot, then add in the Cocavo, Turmeric and Lemon Zest Coconut and Avocado Oil until it smokes.

4. Add garlic until it just colours, then add the calamari.

5. Cook for 2-3 minutes over high heat but not for too long as this is what makes it go tough.

6. Remove drizzle reserved pan juices over the top, and sprinkle chopped parsley.

Basil and Lime Mayonnaise

7. Blend together in a kitchen blender or using a stick blender and adjust seasoning to taste - Alternatively, use a readymade mayonnaise, add lime juice and chopped basil.

8. Serve with lemon or lime wedges & the basil/lime mayonnaise on the side

PAIRING PERFECTLY...

Torrent Bay Sauvignon Blanc from Nelson displays tropical fruits, citrus, and herbs, characteristic of the grape variety and the region's terroir. The perfectly balanced acidity cuts through the richness of Derek's Cajun-spiced Calamari making this the perfect wine match for lunch or dinner.

ANCHORAGEWINES.CO.NZ

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TURKISH DELIGHT

Vicem is not a common brand in Asia Pacific but this latest custom-built 95-footer may very well change that.

BY KEVIN GREEN PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY LEIGH-SMITH YACHTS & KEVIN GREEN

The Turkish yard has a 33-year-long history of producing vessels based on a traditional approach to both build and aesthetics. In my travels as a yachting journalist, I'd most often see them at the Cannes and Genoa boat shows, usually standing out among the acres of other large yachts because of their more classic lines. Then, doing deliveries in the Adriatic, I'd often pass their forebears; the elegant, towering Turkish Gulets, usually sailing with the wind among the many islands. The wooden Gulets heavily influenced Vicem founder, Sebahattin Hafizoglu, and this tradition carries on in the cold-moulded Vicem 95.

So, seeing one in the flesh, as it were, after recently arriving in Australia was fascinating. Imported by experienced big boat dealer Leigh-Smith Yachts on the Gold Coast, the Vicem 95 makes a bold statement by simply being moored dockside during the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show; aided by the stylish International’s Awlgrip light blue (Stars & Stripes) finish. Another differentiator is the shapely hull that even has a faint touch of good old-fashioned tumblehome and a very practical rubbing strake near the waterline; handy for those rougher regions where coming alongside may necessitate fender boards.

STRIKING AESTHETICS

As dealer Ryan Leigh-Smith explained to me during our walk-through, it was the striking aesthetics and traditional – read 'seaworthy'- approach that attracted the Australian owners. Deciding to move up from a Grand Banks 72 to something with more range and liveability capabilities, yet still reflecting that classic era of builds, attracted these experienced boaters to the brand, which is part of the Turkish yard's Classic Range with its flagship 107-foot model.

“Their requirements were for an offshore capable vessel that was family friendly yet also could be chartered out,” explained Ryan.

The three-year build required a lot of Australian input, including an owner's representative and numerous visits from AMSA staff to ensure it could meet the standards (Cat 2C and IE). Named Empire, after the charter company that runs the vessel, it also allows prospective buyers of the brand to hire before buying. Empire is available for short and long-range crewed charters. This is facilitated by up to a 2,000 nm plus range at average cruising speeds; making destinations such as the Kimberly and the Pacific islands a reality.

Teak underfoot and sidedeck doors (left open to reduce windage at sea) create a good airflow when required in the aft cockpit.

Decks space is a good mix of shade and light on the trawler style Vicem 95. The foredeck is also the sundeck with good protection via high topsides.

STEPPING ABOARD

Stepping aboard is easily done, because of the vast swim platform – an owner's requirement – that makes for an ideal water sports base because of the numerous chocks to hold dinghies and removable railings. For offshore, hoist them on the flybridge with the large davit. Adjoining the swim platform is the bulkhead door to the crew quarters. With lots of private and public space, these quarters were better than some superyachts I've recently been on.

Climbing up the stairs leads into the fully enclosed aft cockpit, an essential for our sunburnt climate, and in front of the cockpit are other stairs, leading to the flybridge which gives an easy flow to the Vicem 95 layout. The spacious area easily accommodates the large table and unlike a typical superyacht layout, the galley is nearby at the front of the saloon; rather than below decks, “Being primarily a family boat, the owners' prefer

this, and including any crew in their onboard life,” explained Ryan. Surrounding this cockpit area is a wide varnished and laminated taffrail, which covers all the topsides, clearly setting the tone for this gentleman's motor yacht.

Moving inside the wide saloon aft door reveals a light oak wood interior with lounge and galley forward with dinette adjoining. Vertical bulkheads and large surrounding windows combine with lightwood finish and mood lighting to create a contemporary, yet timeless ambience. Chatting to Ryan, I can easily gaze out at the sunny Queensland surroundings, while sunk comfortably into the couch.

ARTISANS

Quality finishes include the beautifully rounded ends of all cupboards and protruding surfaces; clearly showing the hand-finished craftsmanship that reflects the Istanbul yard's ethos. Walking along the wood-laid floor takes me to the U-shaped galley that feels fully integrated into the entire area. Here, the composite worktops can accommodate several family members contributing to the meal, aided by a four-ring Bosch convection cooktop and oven; with a huge double-door fridge and adjoining freezer space. Spectators are also welcome here, via the coffee bar and high chairs at the back of the galley. Other key white goods include the washer/dryer in the crew quarters.

The galley is ideally near the inside helm, with day head between, so the crew can switch between duties; or the owners can enjoy socialising when in passage mode. Here there are two bucket seats, so command need not be lonely and good practicalities such as sturdy doors on each side for easy communications with deck crew. The entire bridge is panelled in light oak which creates the warm ambience of a private yacht, rather than a commercial vessel. Essential navigation gear includes

electronic throttles for the twin MTU 1600bhp shaft drives and fore and aft thruster controls. In addition, Steve the skipper told me he likes the MTU remote hand-held that can be plugged into various parts of the vessel for drama-free docking. Charting and radar are on Garmin 12-inch screens plus autopilot and satellite communications.

Another plus for the busy skipper is the nearby steps (on portside) up the flybridge, ensuring a weatherproof movement between decks. Probably the largest in this category, the truly vast flybridge is remarkable and a major specification from the Australian owners. But again, they chose function over purely form, by creating a dinghy dock with a powerful davit at the back. Yet, there's plenty of room for entertaining in front of it, along with fine dining under the hardtop. Cocktail hour is well catered for by the large wet bar, U-shaped lounge and mahogany table while under bare feet is the comfort of thick teak cladding.

In front, the steering console is again on starboard and echoes the functionality of the below decks one. My only gripe is to possibly have it on port, so you cover both sides for berthing scenarios. Instruments are shaded by the hardtop and a visor reduces windage. Visibility is greatly enhanced with the slim (but strong) stainless struts all around that hold the hardtop, and minimise windage.

BEDTIME

The four-cabin layout in the voluminous 95-foot hull gives generous space to all occupants, with the midship owner's suite the best place to sleep offshore. Here, I am low in the hull and looking out through elongated portholes avoids feelings of claustrophobia while the king-sized bed with sprung mattress makes sleep enjoyable. Behind, nicely cushioning any engine noise, are twin bathrooms with a large shower cubicle between.

The single-level layout has tall headroom and generous lounge space in the side couches with storage discretely in under-bed cabinetry. 'Unadorned', was scribbled in my notepad at this point, reflecting a very Australian sensibility, rather than Euro-bling.

The guests aren't slumming it either, especially the forepeak cabin, which has an island bed and again voluminous headroom. Surrounded by cupboard space and with wardrobes, it's a comfy berth in port with a spacious ensuite that has natural ventilation. The sturdy portlights reflect naval architecture rather than onshore stylists, ensuring good seaworthiness in this critical part of the hull. Another safety feature is a skylight, for an emergency exit. Between the fore and aft cabins are the two other guests, with two singles in one plus pulman, while across the corridor is another queen-sized double with ensuite.

The single level aft deck-saloon access creates a large social area; all shaded.

The dinette alongside the galley creates a convivial yet functional way of serving food.

The long saloon has a light oak wood interior with lounge and galley forward with dinette adjoining.

The owner's midships suite is voluminous and cushioned from engine noise by the bathroom.

The classic lines are also seaworthy, which is ideal for those offshore passages through the Pacific.

This cabin benefits from the tall bows and has emergency access; plus spacious ensuite.

The owner's ablutions has two toilets with shared show between.

SHADE AND LIGHT

Deck space for an Australian yacht has to be a mix of shade and light, thus the oversized hydraulic swim platform and the spacious foredeck lounge give sunlight; while the aft deck and flybridge offer good shade. In between, during my walk-through, I'm protected by high bulwarks and overhangs like you find on most trawler-style yachts. Underfoot, thick teak cladding ensures grip and comfort for bare feet before you relax on the twin sunbeds for some bow riding or lazy anchor days. And you can rest easy because the rode setup is more than adequate with twin vertical Australian Muir VRC4500 windlasses and deep anchor lockers. Going alongside is done via Muir capstans, wide fairleads and huge cleating to minimise any dramas.

COLD MOULDED HULL

In the 1980’s Turkish businessman, Sebahattin Hafizoglu developed a passionate regard for the historical schooners of the Bosporus, the Turkish Gulets. These traditionally used lateen sails for

propulsion but also use large diesel nowadays when they operate as charter boats and cargo boats. Hafizoglu decided to reinterpret them for modern sensibilities, using state-of-the-art cold moulded wood and epoxy techniques and founded Vicem in 1991. Business gurus call this seeking a 'market differentiator' but it was a clever way of harnessing artisan skills while using modern methods. So, the hull of the Vicem 95 has four cross-ply layers of mahogany plywood that are impregnated using the industry standard West Resin System with special reinforcing and a collision bulkhead at the bow, encased in a thick stainless sheath. Looking around the hull insides, showed me a smooth finish with stringers and frames every 0.6m, creating a rigid hull; yet one that is much quieter and arguably more sea-kindly than other materials. However, the adaptable yard can build in GRP or even steel, should the owner require it. Overall, the Vicem 95 is an impressive custom vessel that is Turkish-made but in many ways typically Australian really, being understated rather than ostentatious; yet with solid functionality and flare.

The main console has deck access on both sides plus nearby steps to the flybridge, so ideal for the busy skipper.

Most of the hull length, the flybridge is another signature feature of the Vicem 95.

The shaded aft cockpit and customised swim platform combine nicely for dry and wet activities.

SYSTEMS

A vessel of this size naturally has a lot of systems and usually a professional crew along with specialist technicians to run it. This is largely true for the Vicem 95, yet it is mostly a fairly basic design, such as traditional wiring (rather than digital buses) with some key modern features. Like the intelligent Humphree vertical stabilisers. I've used these on other brands, such as Fleming, and they operate within the beam of the vessel but act like a kind of rudder system to stabilise – both at rest and at anchor. The engine room is reached via a massive bulkhead door in the crew quarters. Dominated by the Onan 27 kva generator set in the middle and MTU 10-cylinder common rail, sequentially

turbocharged diesels on each side. Having worked briefly as a big yacht engineer, I know the feeling of being stuck in engine rooms, so I always seek out the ventilation and fireproofing systems. Both were more than adequate on the V95, as were the deep bilges to cope with any water ingress. The fuel system includes six baffled tanks to manage the 16,277 l load and a polishing system to deal with varying qualities taken aboard during foreign voyages. Sensibly, sight gauges are used in addition to electric readouts. Other equipment includes a large capacity Stella Aquarius (240 l/phr) watermaker and Dometic 720,000 BTU aircon units.

The MTU 1600bhp shaft drives have adequate working space and deep bilges around them with good access to all service points.

PERFORMANCE DATA

'...understated rather than ostentatious; yet with solid functionality and flare.'

Displacement 121,984 metric tons

persons capacity 12

Exterior Design Vicem Yacht Design Team

Interior Design Vicem Yacht Design Team

Construction Cold moulded mahogany, West System Epoxy LEIGH-SMITH.COM

mtu SERIES 2000 EXCELLENCE MEETS PERFECTION

Rolls-Royce Power Systems’

mtu brand is the first-class choice globally for high-performance yacht propulsion systems.

Penske is your exclusive mtu regional distributor supplying and servicing New Zealand, Australia and Pacific Islands.

Contact us for all your marine power needs: marine@penske.co.nz penske.co.nz 0800 782 762

A HISTORY OF KIWI TRAILER BOATS BY THE DECADES

PART FIVE: The 1990's

BY DOUG DUKESON , PETER MORGAN & HOLLY DUKESON

After the debacle of the NZ share market collapse in October 1987, the marine industry had been in the doldrums for a while, but in the 1990s, it began to recover. This recovery was the result of many factors, including technological advancements in the development of more efficient engines, better navigation systems, and improved boat design and manufacturing processes.

There was also the continuation of the recreational boating boom, fuelled by increased disposable income

and greater leisure time among the New Zealand population.

New Zealand’s victory in the America’s Cup in 1995 brought significant attention and investment to the marine industry. Additionally, increased government support through grants, subsidies, and infrastructure investments assisted in fostering growth and innovation within the sector. All these factors combined to help the marine industry recover from the late 1980s downturn and thrive throughout the 1990s.

• Tristram Marine introduced its first small fibreglass powerboat, the 550 Deluxe Cabin, on Christmas Eve that year. It was an instant success, with a standard of fit and finish that set a new benchmark for New Zealand powerboats.

• Engines: Volvo Penta announced their all-new 7.4-litre petrol sterndrive package coupled with a DuoProp leg, Honda expanded their 4 stroke range to include 35 and 45 hp models, Mercury released a new 2.5 litre 200 HP fuel injected engine and Suzuki entered the horsepower stakes with a DT225 V6.

• Buccaneer Pleasurecraft introduced an impressive six new models – the 480 Sport, 480 Cabin, 440 Sport, 540 Sport, 540 Cabin, and 720 Executive.

• Gina Campbell raised the UIM Women’s World Water Speed Record to 235.6 km/h over the previous record set by Heather Spurle. A few months later Heather took it back with a speed of 271.68 km/h driving CRC Latimer Lodge.

• As a result of the closure of PowerBoat Industries, the biggest-ever marine auction was held to sell the Bonito and Sea Nymph moulds.

•

• PowerBoat Magazine reviewed the 70mph 1850 Bullet, this model was selling for $35,000 with a Johnson 150 included.

• Buccaneer Pleasurecraft Ltd introduced four new models – the 540 Executive, 605 Executive, 540 Fisherman, and 605 Fisherman.

• Ramco released the Fisherman Pro.

• Haines Hunter NZ introduced the SF535, which soon proved to be arguably NZ’s biggest-selling powerboat of its size.

• Fyran had a positive response at the 1991 New Zealand Boat Show, with a gate count of 54,000 attendees.

• Lazercraft 560 Cuddy won the fishing boat of the year award at the New Zealand Boat Show.

• Peter Borland and Barry Thompson set a new mark of 1 hour 58 minutes for a trip from Auckland Harbour Bridge to Tryphena Wharf and return.

• The Magnum 1800 was awarded the tow boat of the year.

• The NZ Boat Show attracted 54,000 through the gate, a positive show despite a downturn in exhibitors.

• The now-discontinued Rayglass 470 was released at the 1991 New Zealand Boat Show.

1992

• Buccaneer Pleasurecraft Ltd introduced two new models – the Billfisher 237 (the first of its walk-around Billfisher models) and the 720 Executive Hard Top.

• The Superior 750 turned many heads at the New Zealand Boat Show.

• CWF Hamilton Marine secured a $3 million contract with the Indian government to supply 30 of their Hamilton 401 waterjets.

• The Craig Loomes designed Tournament 8m was launched –designed over width to gain the advantages of space, stability and seakeeping.

• Mike Southward driving Shell True Blue Ladybug broke Peter Knight’s 11-year tenure on the Masport Cup.

• Yamaha released their diesel-powered sterndrive package, an inline six-cylinder, 4.16-litre Toyota-based engine producing 250hp.

• PowerBoat Magazine reviewed the Sea Force Intrepid –A GRP Boat built by Fibre Forces in Hamilton to take on the tinny market.

• MerCruiser took on Volvo’s DuoProp with the release of the twin prop 3 and Blackhawk sternlegs.

• The Furuno Fishing Tournament was the biggest in New Zealand at the time, with 3000 fishermen all under one roof.

1993

• CSB Huntsman Boats, builder of fibreglass powerboats in Christchurch, was founded by Geoff and Toni Robinson. The first models were the 525 Executive and 523 Sport.

• Tristram Marine introduced its 550 SS sport runabout, on the same hull as the 550 Deluxe Cabin. It too was an instant success.

• Buccaneer Pleasurecraft Ltd introduced three new models – two more of its Billfisher series, the Billfisher 172 and the Billfisher 2008, and also the 540 Ltd Fisherman.

• Other big releases included: Ramco 5.5 Fisherman, Fi Glass Senator 5.5, Fyran 525, Reflex 710, Steadecraft V156, Hamilton Jet 151 & 152, Reflex Cobalt.

• Rayglass released the 620 Legend – The first of the exciting Legend development programme.

• Surtees Boats was founded when Neil Surtees decided to design and build himself an aluminium boat to use for fishing off the Whakatane Coast. When local people saw it, it wasn’t long before Neil had more orders than he could cope with.

• The Sea Ray 180 was one of the most popular bowriders on the market and still is today on the second-hand market.

• Haines Hunter built their 100th SF535, in less than 15 months after the mould went into production.

• The annual BP 100 NZ Powerboat Rally provided powerboat owners to have some fun in an organised atmosphere and to compete for great prizes.

• 141 boats entered the Hamilton Bridge to Bridge ski race and associated powerboat sprints, the biggest turnout in the event's 10-year history.

• Yamaha's Waveblaster was a big step towards PWCs from the conventional standup pole jet-ski.

• Haines Hunter added another model to their Sport Fisherman range, the SF735 was available in both outboard or sterndrive options.

• Buccaneer Pleasurecraft Ltd introduced three more new models –the 605 Elite, the 525 Elite XL, and the 525 Esprite XL.

• Other significant releases included:

Seaforce Adventurer, 7m Tournament, Fyran 565, Fyran 565, and the Cresta Craft 5.5

• OMC released their all-new 60-degree V4s, with the 115hp version the most compact on the market.

• Graeme Horne and Tony Banks took the AucklandGreat Barrier-Auckland record with a time of 1hr 38min 2sec, in their Robson 32 catamaran, Fleetlease. A few months later Chris and Debbie Bartlett set a new record for a single outboard with a time of 2hr 12min 5.7sec in their 2.5 litre Mercury-powered Sonic 1900. The following year they reduced that to 1hr 40min 59 secs.

• Reflex Boats and Suzuki outboards collaborated in a boat and motor package, with a Suzuki 85HP engine, the boat was on the water for just $25.000.

• Roger Seymour broke the FI speed record with a twoway average of 202 km/h, only the second driver in New Zealand to better 200 km/h.

• Lifejackets or personal flotation devices were made mandatory for anyone boating on the Waitemata or Manukau Harbours. You don’t have to wear them but there must be enough for all persons onboard.

• The 1850 Bullet finished 1st and 3rd place, with a 1750 Bullet coming 2nd place in the biggest Bridge To Bridge ski race (above) in the event’s 10-year history (with 141 boats entered).

1995

• In just 8 years, McLay had become one of the big players in the Alloy Boat market – Launching the McLay 6m Sports – The pride of their fleet at the time.

• Yamaha launched their first mid-range 4-stroke outboard, with the 50hp joining their established 8hp and 9.9hp models. This is the start of Yamaha's commitment to develop an entire 4-stroke range alongside their existing 2-stroke.

• Honda produced the world's largest 4-stroke when they unveiled the 90hp, 1590cc, overhead cam, fourcylinder engine. Mercury released their 225 and 250 hp models with EFI.

• Tristram Marine introduced the 521 Deluxe cabin

• Buccaneer Pleasurecraft Ltd introduced three more new models – the 470 Esprite XL, the 720 Elite XL, and the 720 Elite Hardtop XL.

• Other new model releases included Rayglass 730, Leisurecraft 535 & 555, Steadecraft 545 Seville, Haines Hunter SF600LE, Ramco 6.5 Sportfisher, Ramco 7.9 Sportsman, Stabicraft 605, McLay 6.0HT, 6.3M & 6.5M Cruisers, Huntsman 525 Sport, Fyran 540 Venturer, Magnum 1850, Lazercraft 560 Sport GT.

• Rayglass Boats suffered a devastating fire, which destroyed many of their moulds. Thanks to the support of the industry, and a dedicated team at Rayglass, the company was back in production within six weeks.

• Gavin Childs GRP deck and Aluminium hull combo, the Lazercraft 560 Sport GT was a popular boat in its day and remains so today.

• New Zealand Offshore took on a whole new look when Peter Turner and Graeme Horne both imported UIM Class 1 boats. Both boats dominated offshore racing both in New Zealand and Australia for several years.

• The 1995 New Zealand Boat Show attendance figures broke through the 53,000 barrier, the best since 1991 (54,200).

• Kiwis took 1-2-3 in the World Jet Boat Championships in Canada with Ralph Brown and Neil Ross taking overall victory. A few weeks later a massive heart attack claimed the life of Brown.

• Peter Turner smashed the Bay of Islands to Auckland speed record in his Class One catamaran Sleepyhead, with a time of 1hr 26mins 38secs for the 124 nautical mile trip.

• Buccaneer Pleasurecraft Ltd introduced two more new models –the 485 Classic XL Wide Body and the 635 Esprite XL DC, a model that Propeller Magazine ran as a family and PowerBoat photo boat for over a decade.

• Tristram Marine introduced the 521 SS sport runabout, built using the same hull mould as the very successful 521 Deluxe cabin introduced the previous year.

• Haines Hunter introduced the SF 650, which replaced the SF600. The new SF650 had a little more deadrise for an even softer ride. It was very much an open-plan family day boat, although there were overnighting options such as a gas cooker and sink unit. The SF650 was an immediate success, with exceptional sales throughout the country.

• One of the country’s best-known aluminium boat brands, Ramco, introduced two new-generation models – the 720 Explorer and the 600 Fishmaster.

• Other new model releases for the year included Pi-Seas 5.9 and Huntsman 6000.

• Barry Thompson and Doug Dukeson founded D&B Publishing Ltd and launched their new magazine, the bi-monthly New Zealand Propeller, the first issue being for June/July 1996. In the second issue, editor Barry Thompson began his editorial by saying “The response to our first issue was overwhelming …”. The rest, of course, is history!

• Honda introduced its new 90hp 4-stroke outboard, which it touted as being the “biggest and best of both worlds”. It had four cylinders, four carburettors and 12 valves.

• Ficht direct fuel injection was invented in the early 1980s during the Cold War by Wolfgang Heimberg, a young East German engineer. OMC’s first DI model was the 150hp 60-degree V6, released in 1996 for the 1997 model year. Its fuel consumption was 30% less, on average, than its previous carburetted version.

• Suzuki released the 115 EFI, the first midrange outboard in the world to offer electronic fuel injection.

• Mercury Marine announced the release of their first direct fuel injection outboards. Named DFI, the engine was not made readily available for a couple of years, when it was relaunched under the new name Optimax.

• One of the hot boats Propeller Magazine reviewed in the ’90s was the Sonic 1900. It later became the choice of boat, for an offshore one-class category.

• Graeme Horne suffered a horrific offshore racing accident and subsequent serious injury while competing in an offshore race on Auckland Harbour and did not return to racing.

1997

• CPC, the New Zealand Trailerboat Compliance programme, was launched and immediately picked up by the major boat builders in the country. This was the first step by the Boating Industries Association (BIA) to bring in a form of 'warrant of standard’ for boats.

• Tristram Marine’s 661 Millennium Cuddy Cabin won the Trailerboat of the Show award at the Auckland Boat Show. It signalled that Tristram Marine was serious about building bigger and bigger trailer boats. Reinforcing this was the introduction of the Broadbill 691, a boat destined for the fishing and diving market.

• Buccaneer Pleasurecraft Ltd introduced two more new models – the 550 Esprite XL and the 550 Classic XL Wide Body.

• Rayglass Boats Ltd introduced the 650 Legend, which won the ‘Boat of The Show’ award at the NZ Boat Show. Back then, production was split 60%/40% in favour of sterndrives, with the most popular unit for this model being the 210 hp MerCruiser V6.

• Aquapro – One of the largest inflatable boat manufacturers in NZ, produced 1300 boats every year (including small tenders). In 1997 released their 2301 workboat.

• This was perhaps the heyday for NZ ski boats. In the February/March 1997 issue of NZ Propeller magazine included a Buyer’s Guide to Ski Boats, which featured brands including Bullet, Cyclone, Magnum, Mirage, Obsession. Protech, Stealth, Sonic, and Viper.

• 1997 model releases also included Sea Nymph Hustler (revamp), Rayglass Protector 8.5, Protech R$1900, Haines Signature 520, Rayglass 850 and the Ramco 650.

• Bayliner imported a good number of boats from the USA, including the popular Bayliner 1702 Capri.

• Christchurch-based Reflex Products built quality wellpriced boats. The brand is no longer boat building but there are many second-hand Reflex’s around, such as the Cobalt FX.

• Barry Thompson reviewed the Marco 460 with the then Marco Boat’s Graham Ransom, 25 years after their last boat review when Graham owned Fyran.

• Engines: Yamaha built the Pro V Max, the world's first production twin counter-rotating propeller outboard. Propeller Magazine ran a Yamaha Pro V MAX 150 on their Huntsman Dorado photo boat. Mercury offered a 300hp V6 for the petrol heads, the first shipment of OMC Ficht 150/175 hp engines arrived in the country, Honda's BF130 was the biggest 4-stroke on the market and Suzuki's new electronic fuel-injected 70hp four-stroke was a world first.

• The Suzuki DF60 and DF70 won the "NMMA Innovation Award" from the International Marine Trades Exhibit and Conference.

• Propeller Magazine successfully arranged several engine shootouts. It was a risk and time-consuming but received great readership. In the 90s alone, Propeller Magazine ran head-to-head shootouts on 225hp, 150hp, 90hp and 50hp engines.

• Before anyone knew how dangerous White Island was, Propeller Magazine reviewed the Huntsman Dorado. We ran the boat from Whakatane to White Island, a great little boat that Propeller Magazine ran as photo boats for over 6 years.

• Propeller Magazine ran the Fyran 600 Horizon powered by a 115 Suzuki as their photo boat.

• Graeme Weller broke the 17-year-old unlimited racing runabout record held by Warwick Jones, when he scorched across Lake Karapiro at 133.58 mph, smashing the old record by nearly 10 mph.

• In mid-1998 the most powerful 4-stroke outboard available in NZ was the newly released Honda 130hp, having an engine based on the Honda Accord, a 2.3-litre, in-line 4-cyl., 16-valve – Honda’s first outboard featuring direct fuel injection.

• It was another big year for new model releases that included: The Fi Glass 5.85 Warrior, Haines Signature 550, Ramco Explorer 760 HT, Haines Hunter SR535, Tristram Aquapro RIBs, Stabi-craft 490 & 580, Magnum 1650, Huntsman Series 5000, Tristram Avant Grade 601, Buccaneer 525 & 605 Escapes, Buccaneer 720 & 635 Billfishers, Fyran 630 & 750 Pursuits, Marco GR500, Bonito 585 Sport, Bluewater 770 HT, Sea Nymph Hustler 640, Aqualite 601 & 645, and the Rayglass Cruisemaster.

• Mercury Marine released the Mercury 300 Pro Max – The world’s most powerful production outboard.

• OMC announced that in 1999 its outboard brands Evinrude and Johnson would be repositioned in the market, with Evinrude featuring the newer ‘premium technology’ Ficht direct injection, and Johnson staying with the older carburetted two-strokes.

• Mercury Marine released what was then its most technically advanced outboards, featuring OptiMax direct fuel injection, manufactured under licence to Orbital Technologies of Perth, Western Australia.

1999

• Following the success of the Pauanui poker run, Propeller Magazine kicked off their first Poker Run, with over 50 boats starting the 77 nautical mile ‘fun cruise’ around Auckland Harbour, it was a great event and several more followed.

• Tristram Marine introduced the 581 Prima Cuddy Cabin, which replaced the 550. Also, at the NZ Boat Show at Auckland Showgrounds, the Tristram Millennium 661 took out the Trailerboat of the Show award.

• Buccaneer Pleasurecraft Ltd introduced two more new models – the 530 Esprite XL and the Billfisher 550. These brought the number of the company’s new-model releases to a total of 48 during the 23 years since it was founded in 1976 – making Buccaneer Pleasurecraft Ltd, in terms of the number of models offered, arguably NZ’s most prolific fibreglass boat manufacturing company.

• Other notable new models released included the all-new Haines Hunter SF700, Seahouse 6.6HT, Steadecraft 600, Fyran 680/750 Horizon, Reflex 515 Chianti, Bonito 640 RIB, Marco 530, Bonito 485, Cresta Craft 520, Campion Explorer 21, Seaforce Discovery 645, McLay 520/620, Ramco Getaway 500, Stabicraft 650 HT and 580XC, Scorpion 530, Offshore Seeka 7.2, Primal Caprice 65 and Proline Straitrunner.

• Yamaha announced its latest advancement in twostroke engine technology – an entirely new 2.6-litre V6 engine featuring its high-pressure direct injection (HPDI) system, in which injection pressure is at 4.84MPa, considerably higher than the Evinrude E-TEC’s 730kPa and the Mercury OptiMax’s 625kPa.

• Yamaha set an outboard fuel economy world record, achieving 58.45 nautical miles on 4.546 litres (1 imperial gallon) of fuel. Travelling on a 1.7 km course around the Orakei Basin, Auckland, they used a Yamaha F4A four-stroke and covered 108.262 km.

• Rayglass Boats was named the official supplier of boats for the America's Cup 2000. The $1.8 million deal comprised 25 boats, (nine 8.5m Protector RIBs and 16 Rayglass Legends) to be used by umpires and judges as well as for patrol duties.

• Due to the increase in demand for their boats, Tristram Boats built an impressive new showroom and factory in Te Rapa, Hamilton.

• By the end of this decade, imported trailerable powerboats, primarily from the USA, had made substantial inroads into the New Zealand market. One of the leading importers was Sports Marine Ltd, importer of Sea Ray boats. Sports Marine in NZ had premises in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

“This vessel has arguably the space of a 60–65-foot vessel and instead of being pushed along by 1000–1200 horsepower per side we are using 550 hp per side”

A TROJAN HORSE

with more than meets the eye

According to the Google bible, The Iliad is one of two major ancient Greek epic poems attributed to Homer. It is one of the oldest extant works of literature still widely read by modern audiences. The Iliad recounts a brief but crucial period of the Trojan War, a conflict between the city of Troy and its allies against a confederation of Greek cities, collectively known as the Achaeans. The Iliad means ''poem of Troy''. The Greek epic is exactly that: a long poetic account of the Greek siege of the city of Troy.

BY KYLE BARNES

So why does this range of vessels, ILIAD Catamarans, owe its name to such a classic poem? Kate Elkington, Business Development and Marketing Manager for the brand, set me straight. “Homer’s ships are legendary for their long-range capabilities and commanding performance, and this resonated with us as, in addition to luxury and quality, these are some of the defining features of our range of catamarans.” Nicely done.

But I find myself in the strange situation of being on a vessel that I am not typically drawn to, in fact, I am not sure I have ever stood on a multihull before. The traditional catamaran captain of old was for me, one of those middle-aged, passionate, beige Volvo drivers at the dinner table who did a little too much research and bored you to tears with

their rhetoric. Very earnest folk, a bit like in the modern world of getting a Tesla owner started on the benefits of their EV compared to others. But times have moved on. I am now a middle-aged Tesla owner and it seems, at first glance, that the catamaran builds and use of economies of space are fabulously innovative and exciting to talk about.

I meet up with senior sales executive Marcus Overman sometime before “sparrows” at The Boat Works, a droolworthy spot for boaties in the upper reaches of the Coomera River. A place that boasts every sort of vessel sales office you can imagine, so it’s pretty hard for a vessel to stand out among the crowd. But the ILIAD 53F did, in fact, by and large head and shoulders above its cohorts.

THE SALOON

The numbers on this boat are massivewith a length of a little over 16 metres and a beam of a nudge under 8 metres. That is of course your saloon, cockpit and foredeck taken care of which literally equates to the space of some 22-metre

boats I have seen in terms of communal space. A lot is going on in the saloon with a massive full-sized kitchen with clean lines and very chef-friendly. The whole area was serviced by double doors aft and fold-back windows which opened the back up nicely, and one forward midships window for cross breeze. Apart from the large kitchen, there is a plethora of soft sofas and seats with upholstery crafted in synthetic Ultraleather, fabulous to the touch. It seems like under every recess and height change there is fabulously super hidden strip lighting which gives the whole space a golden glow, a real credit to the lighting architect. The lower helm is to the starboard side which normally has a double seat with a bolster, while our ride had optioned in a single helm chair. This cleverly swung around to the starboard side when at anchor or when time allowed and became an office chair with a desk set up beside it. There are quite a number of hidden power points, hatches and hideyholes, too many to list, but suffice to say you could never complain about storage in the saloon itself.

The owners choose multihulls

“because they are such a stable platform at rest and yet still a very good boat at sea”.

A lot is going on in the saloon with a massive full-sized kitchen with clean lines and very chef-friendly.

ACCOMMODATIONS

On either side of the saloon are stairs down into the two hulls. You have to keep reminding yourself you are on a catamaran and not a monohull. As you go down, and further down into the starboard hull, you are presented with an athwartships owner’s cabin around the midship of the hull that can either be a full king or queen. There are oodles of light thanks to the hull windows and tinted deck hatches. There’s also a full ensuite bathroom and the cabin has a nicely placed chair to curl up on in the sun as well as a vanity table and shelving. This is also a haven for escape from the guests as unlike typical vessels you have the hull to yourself, no sharing the hallway. Across to the other hull and once again down, and further down the stairway, you find yourself with two guest cabins each with their own ensuites. The forward cabin is full of beds, one single and a double. I would suggest this as a room for the kids or a couple and a little one. The aft cabin has a choice of layouts from double to king or as with this one, two singles with an optional infill to make a large king-size bed.

COCKPIT AND SEA ACCESS

The hardwood floor of the saloon seamlessly flows out to the teak cockpit where you find a full-sized dining table.

This is a huge, uncluttered area with the deck walkways on either side being once again of generous proportions as well as the easy-to-navigate sweeping staircase to the bridge. The teak doesn’t stop there it continues down the stairs to a duckboard of sorts which is replicated on both hulls. The movable boarding platform or duckboard sits noticeably higher than the other two hulls suspended from what you would call the midships transom except the transom doesn’t go all the way to the waterline. And because it pushes out seaward and then lowers down, this means there are no restrictions on the length of any tender. As long as it draws less than a metre and weighs south of 450 kilograms it can be accommodated.

ENGINES

With one relatively small 550 hp Volvo engine per engine room per hull, and just the one Onan 13.5 KW generator fitted on the port side, these engine rooms are large. They are beautifully uncomplicated spaces that are obviously designed for long-range cruising and engine first aid if required, judging by the access you have around the machinery. An engine room is not a place that I am all that comfortable with and most times I simply close the door, throw my hands up in the air and admit I know less when I get in there than before I entered. But the way this machinery space is laid out gave me a bit of satisfaction as even I could follow cables and pipes to sort out what’s what if needed.

FROM THE SALES DEPARTMENT

Marcus talks me through what he sees as the distinct advantages of cats over monohulls. “This vessel has arguably the space of a 60–65-foot vessel and instead of being pushed along by 1000–1200 horsepower per side, we are using 550 HP per side” he explains.

“Another advantage is the owner’s cabin being in its own distinct hull away from other guests. Then there is the class-leading range, of course, and the natural stability, which means you don’t have to run stabilisers or gyros at night, meaning no generators are needed at anchor. And with this vessel, it’s more about the journey with a

top speed of mid-20 knots with a cruise in the late teens around 18 knots. You can also carry two tenders, one on the aft deck and one on the top deck, which for a 53-foot vessel is a lot of toys. And finally, it has a shallow draft which means you can get further up into bays and inlets to avoid the weather.”

BRIDGE

Accessed by the full-width staircase you are led up to the bridge and are met with a huge outdoor area, with a couple of removable chocks to house a tender or a 12-seat dining table. Further forward on the port side is the built-in seating for around 10 folks with a retractable dining table to fit all your guests in with comfort. The starboard houses a barbeque and everything else, including the kitchen sink. Then there is the helm seat, an oversized adjustable bolster sit/stand seat that has room for another few navigators on your port side. The helm station itself works off a couple of Raymarine 16-inch displays, almost mirroring the downstairs helm in terms of tech.

DECKS

The side gunwales are wide and generous although potted with a few tinted skylights to let light into the hulls. My natural tendency was to avoid walking directly on them, but I also avoid cracks in the pavement, and when tested there was minimal bounce or give on the skylights. Up forward, as well as a fabulous and generously proportioned place to rest, the boat had a few more tricks up her sleeve or more to the point in her hull. Surprise number one was looking into the midships forward storage lockers and anchor space.

They are huge and deep. I reckon there was room for a half dozen fenders at least in there and not the skinny little ones. Rather the big fat ones that new boaties furnish the rails with, in order to bounce off the pier. Surprise number two came in the form of what I would term the “focsle” or forecastle of the hulls. These things are huge in terms of head height and length and, as it turns out according to Marcus, “can be fitted into crew quarters for charter vessels”.

WHY BUY?

This is the second multihull bought by the owners of this vessel with the first being an ILIAD 50, the predecessor to the 53 Series.

“We choose multihulls because they are such a stable platform at rest and yet still a very good boat at sea. We also like the ability to turn off generators and run the whole boat on solar power and lithium house batteries. A wide beam and flybridge enables the installation of a sizeable solar array that can legitimately run all house power needs outside of the air-conditioner and BBQ. So complete peace and quiet for us at rest but also as a means of reducing fuel consumption. We enjoy coastal cruising from Sydney to Port Stephens and surrounds with kids, sports and school keeping us ‘anchored’ nearer to Sydney more than we would like”. (Finally) ILIAD Catamarans’ pre-sales, fit, finish and after-sales service really stood out to us. The ability to get involved in the design process and customise the boat to our needs, coupled with the quality branded products installed, gives a high level of confidence that the boat will perform to expectations. The team at ILIAD also really go above and beyond to make the boat ownership experience trouble-free and enjoyable.”

Under every recess and height change there is fabulously super hidden strip lighting which gives the whole space a golden glow.

The helm seat, an oversized adjustable bolster sit/stand seat that has room for a few more navigators on the port side.

There is oodles of light thanks to the hull windows and tinted deck hatches, and the cabin has a nicely placed chair to curl up on in the sun.

The starboard houses a barbeque and everything else including the kitchen sink.

There is a plethora of soft sofas and seats with upholstery crafted in synthetic “Ultraleather,” fabulous to the touch.

SUMMARY

I am now a catamaran captain convert. These wave runners are an amazing invention and I know they have been around for an age, however, what has been crafted in the ILIAD models in terms of space, fit-out, sound engineering and economy is sensational. The space is absolutely mind-blowing when you consider you are on a 53-foot vessel. The fit-out is right up there with the top longer-established brands with huge amounts of fitted furniture and styles that hold the elegance of the boat together. Even at full throttle in the saloon, all that’s required for communication is a quiet inside voice, so there has obviously been a lot of investment in the sound engineering. Finally, the economy is amazing. A comfortable 1600 nautical miles can be achieved at 8 knots or if you’re in a bit more of a dash you can easily clip along at 18 knots, gobbling 7.5 litres per hour, which would not break the bank.

SPECIFICATIONS

Maker & Model ILIAD Catamarans 53F

Length 16.37m Beam 7.63m Draft at Full Load 1.25m

27,500 kg

SERVICE, LOYALTY AND A DEDICATION TO PERFECTION

Chapter 7

No people. No boats. It’s so true, no matter whether you’re talking lamination or design, accounts or electricians, reception or woodworking, engineers or fabricators. The hands craft the dreams, and Maritimo is certainly proud of the people who constitute the big family.

Maritimo’s Operations Manager, Phil Candler, comments on the value of the individuals that come together to form the organisation. Himself an 11-year service ‘veteran’, his knowledge not only comes from that overarching role he performs, but also from the time spent with the Founder, Bill Barry-Cotter, over the decades, and the management team at Maritimo.

“It’s one of the most important things for us. We have three key elements in how we recognise the team. It starts with how we attract new members to the clan in the first place, how we then maintain their interest, and also how we train our people on an ongoing basis,” said Candler.

“Firstly, we look for people with the right attitude, the right ability, and the right fit for our team. This all stems from the interview process, as the cornerstone is developing the right people for the future of the company. We have over 30 apprentices that we’re training in-house currently, and our objective in all of that is to train the people with the right skills for the company.”

“Success comes in the form of staff retention, and then also final placement into their chosen field, once their apprenticeship ends. Some of our key leaders have come through apprenticeship training programs in all areas of the business, so it is not just words, but a practice we adhere to.”

“There are over 35 people that fit into our 10, 15, and 20-year service categories. When I joined, there were 100 in the team, whereas now we are over 360. So, it shows just how many are in for the long term. They have trained, developed and stayed with the company, which is great. We not only have to build the right boat, we need to have the right relationship with customers and staff alike, as we are one big family that needs each other.”

Candler added, “Manufacturing and all processes of manufacturing are all interlinked. If you have the right quality of people, you can then develop the right boat, manufacture the right boat, and then do it in an achievable timeframe. Doing all of that cost-effectively is crucial as the years have gone by. Continuous improvement and innovation are essential in all we do.”

Given today’s vessels are bigger and have more gear inside them than ever before, the importance of this statement becomes even more apparent. The requirement to have components that can be built together in a timely manner to deliver the final product is self-evident, and much of Maritimo’s work is in making sure that quality, speed, and time have been given equal attention, all the way from design to manufacture. So, it is not just what the market wants, but equally, just what is the manufacturability of that request.

“The overall success of the company is dependent on the way we treat our staff, how we communicate with them, and how we relate to them. I, a boat builder since way back when understand the difficulties in some areas of manufacturing. What Maritimo fosters is the requirement to continually look, enhance, and help our staff reach their goals, and then as we help them reach their goals, we also will achieve the goals for the company overall. This is the true value of our staff, who are the fabric of the organisation,” said Candler to underscore the point.

There are a lot of teams and groups that all work together inside the bigger framework to get the job done, and the final element of the process is to garner information into what additional tools the team would like to make their world even better, and by extension, that too of the boats and the owners that buy them.

Production Manager Kym Fleet certainly has a lot on his plate at any one time, especially as more and more Maritimos get produced each year, but it’s his humour that allows him to maintain an even keel. The ‘fun’ part is rewarding teams and individuals as it arises. By way of example, Fleet commented, “Just the other week we took the entire timber shop and the CNC computer cutting team go-karting, because they were deemed to be the most outstanding department for 2023. The timber shop is involved in supplying all other departments with the product they need to do their job. “We’re also rewarding all those with 10 or more years’ service soon, and I really cannot say more about that, other than it is special.”

Fleet concluded, “With the kinds of deadlines we have for shows and shipping departures, we always recognise the superefforts made to get us over the line. Ultimately, everyone’s very, very proud of what we do. We look on fondly at what leaves the facility and gets launched to go off to the customer.”

Maritimo currently has three staff who have been with the company for 20 years, 14 who have been at Maritimo for 15 years or more, several of whom are just about to join the 20-year club, and a further 18 family members in the 10-15 year bracket.

The recent Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show proved to be a resounding success, serving as a platform to exhibit an array of boats and innovative technologies that will redefine the landscape of recreational boating in New Zealand. As we transition into the coming months, I’m spending my evenings preparing my own vessel for the upcoming spring fishing season and then looking forward to a long summer out on the water.

TIP #151

STICKY TAPE

Masking tape is invaluable when fitting items like engine room vents. It provides temporary adhesive for precise positioning without risking damage to the fiberglass surface. Additionally, it protects against scratches or abrasions during drilling and mounting, ensuring careful handling of fibreglass boats.

Pro Tip: Always use non-permanent tape when working on projects and avoid leaving it on for more than two days otherwise it will be hard to remove.

TIP #152

WINDSCREEN MAINTENANCE

When removing old windscreen adhesive, make sure you thoroughly remove all the old material by cutting away all the old adhesive and ensure a clean and smooth surface for the new application. I highly recommend Sikaflex 295 polyurethane adhesive as it provides exceptional bonding strength to your screen and durability which is highly suitable for marine environments.

Pro Tip: Sikaflex 295 is available from most marine suppliers. I would not recommend using silicon sealer due to the exposure to the ocean elements.

TIP #153

I recently purchased an eLite electric outboard from the Hutchwilco Boat Show, this compact powerhouse represents a serious shift in boating propulsion, offering efficiency and performance that rivals traditional petrol outboards. The performance of the eLite outboard becomes undeniable, leaving conventional petrol counterparts in its wake. This innovative phenomenon heralds a promising future of cleaner, quieter, and more enjoyable adventures on the Hauraki Gulf.

Pro Tip: With one of these units, you won’t need petrol or 2 stroke oil on board, however you will need to make sure everything is washed down and dried each time you use it.

TIP #155 FUTURE TECH

HEAT EXCHANGER MAINTENANCE

Maintaining a heat exchanger is crucial to a good boat cooling system and requires attention to detail. Deposits in the heat exchanger can be removed with a wire brush or, for more stubborn deposits, chemical cleaning via immersion in a cleaning solution. Regular inspection and replacement of anodes, particularly in sea water-cooled exchangers, are vital to prevent corrosion. Inspections of the cooling system should be carried out at least every 3-6 months, and always flush the seawater side with a good marine flush like Salt Attack.

Pro Tip: Always replace the rubber gaskets to maintain proper sealing. Correct tightening sequence of all studs and bolts during reassembly is crucial to prevent leaks.

TIP #154

DAVIT FITTING

It’s important when fitting davits to your inflatable boat to make sure you have everything lined up, start by aligning everything carefully, ensuring the inflatable is centred to the transom. It's best to do the measuring and marking process while the boat is anchored in calm waters to avoid any discrepancies. Mark the locations on the inflatable for the rubber davit pads, which will then be securely glued in place later.

Pro Tip: Remember to measure at least 2-3 times before finalising the location of the pads, this approach guarantees a snug and reliable fit.

A BOAT FOR ALL SEASONS

A 36-foot launch branded as The AllSeason Boat for a mainly Scandinavian market has an interesting selection of features, intended for a climate where boaties tie up to ice floes. As Rebecca Hayter discovers, such features can extend the New Zealand boating season.

BY REBECCA HAYTER

Rapid acceleration, quiet and soft-riding, superb handling, smooth helm – those are stand-out qualities of the Sargo 36, The AllSeason Boat, from Finland. They attracted Leighton Henshaw, co-principal of European Marine in Christchurch, when he was looking for a boat for his young family and for the New Zealand market. After canvassing several Europe-based brands, he selected the Sargo.

‘My wife and I have two children aged two and five years old,’ Henshaw says. ‘We were looking for a boat that had a walkaround style, nice high rails, two cabins with two heads if needed, and a boat that could cope with New Zealand seas so we were looking

The Sargo 36 from Finland has distinctive styling with reverse sheer windscreen and full walkaround. Note the gate that opens in the starboard bulwark.

for a deep vee hull and a sea-kindly hull.’

The Sargo 36 met his wishlist, along with his requirements for easy manoeuvrability, thanks to its powerful bow thruster as standard and twin sterndrives, and the economy of diesel engines while delivering on speed: the Sargo 36 cruises comfortably at 28 knots and tops out at 41 knots.

It even comes with a nice backstory: in 1967, Edy Sarin of Finland began his boatbuilding career constructing boat interiors for companies including Nautor Swan before founding his business in 1967.

His three sons now run the company, which was rebranded Sargo in 2014.

The boats are built in Ostrobothnia, Finland where, according to Sargo, the

locals are ‘tough, practical, independent and inventive’ – which sounds like a Scandinavian take on Kiwi number eight wire. They’re also into fishing.

Sargo was designed primarily for a Scandinavian market and here are just some of the features for chilly climes where boats moor up to ice shelves: the 5kW diesel heater with blowers in all cabins and bathrooms, defrosters at the reverse sheer windscreen, double-glazing and a hull fully insulated during construction. These features will be popular in New Zealand, too, especially for families who want to enjoy their boat year-round.

The Sargo is noticeably quiet underway in terms of engine and riding noise, and I’m sure the insulation is a factor.

With a moderate vee running all the way aft and confident chines, the Sargo 36 is comfortable in rough seas.

The ensuite bathroom for the master cabin.

The for’ard master cabin has an island berth and en-suite bathroom.

The Sargo 36’s ‘secret’ cabin beneath the galley/saloon.

Other features will also fit well for Kiwi boating, such as the open bow rail which allows Finnish boaters to tie up to ice shelves and rocks in deep fjords and which will be handy in picking up moorings and for some New Zealand locations, such as steep-sloping beaches in Abel Tasman. As for the exceptionally robust rubbing strip either side and the ice-breaking rail that runs down the stem and along the keel – well, no one gets it right every time.

The walk around decks, sheltered cockpit and generous swimboard/fishing platform will be popular with the crew at docking time, but the real treat is the gate in the bulwark on the starboard side, just outside of the helm station. This gives the crew a manageable step off onto the dock. It would also be extremely handy when operating the boat single-handed.

Sargo representative, Bruce McGill skippered the boat for my outing from Westhaven Marina in Auckland. Onboard, the Sargo 36 encapsulates a lot of good ideas. The bow section is home to a spacious master cabin with sufficient stowage, a double island berth and an ensuite bathroom with a separate shower and electric toilet.

To accommodate the master cabin and its generous headroom, the helm station is well back from the windscreen, which felt a little strange for me, but it has good visibility, almost all-round. The day of our review was a fine Sunday with plenty of boats on the water; I

was mindful of a blind spot in my view at about two o’clock, relative to my straight-ahead view, but I could accommodate it comfortably. The helm was well-spec’d and adaptable; the wheel is tilt-adjustable and even the console could move out and tilt for skipper’s comfort. The helm definitely has a ship-like feel, partly thanks to the reverse sloping windscreen and, the excellent feature of the sliding doors either side to access the side decks. These doors had an attractive timber latch system to keep them secure at various stages of opening for fresh air.

There are twin seats for the skipper and co-skipper; the skipper’s has a bolster for support in a standing position. The co-skipper’s seat swivels to face the saloon table.

Thanks to the generous specs, there are plenty of electronics including two large 12-inch Garmin screens; a switchboard, easily accessed, for ship’s operations such as bilge pumps, search lights, integrated bow thruster with dedicated battery, Fusion radio, compass and black water tankage. The Sargo 36 has Volvo Easy Connect so the skipper can monitor the boat’s status remotely from a hand held device.

The Sargo’s clever trick is another cabin beneath the saloon. To accommodate it, the saloon table and C-shaped seating are slightly higher than expected, which gives a good view through the windows. Above the saloon, the sliding, 1.25 x 1.9 m sunroof opens up for an al fresco vibe. The galley has adequate storage,

two-hob electric stove and a one-third/two-thirds sink with hot and cold water. At first glance there is generous bench space, however most of the bench comprises solid timber covers, one over the sink; the other over the hob. Presuming that the sink and/or hob would be in use when preparing food, prep space would be tight. And to the secret second cabin below the saloon. It’s accessed by lifting the rear seat at the saloon table. That done, it’s an easy two steps down, with full headroom on the starboard side. The double and single bunks are to port beneath the galley, with crouching room only. There is a toilet compartment to starboard, although privacy and ventilation are limited. Kids will love it.

The Sargo’s exterior will appeal to lovers of water sports including fishers and socialising at any time of day, thanks to the canopy over the cockpit. The large swimboard will suit fishing, swimming and getting on and off the tender, and reaching for mooring lines when docking. There is a substantial rail all-round and the branded fenders line up in a classy rack – a great idea. All external fittings, including cleats, are ultrarugged. Due to the open bow rail, the anchor is offset to port. There is comfortable seating for six to eight in the cockpit with a chiller to take care of the catch or to supplement the capacity of the galley fridge. The walkarounds either side are secure with generous bulwarks and offer options for fishing parties to spread

out. Washdown will be easy, thanks to the slope of the side decks from bow to stern.

The cockpit sole lifts courtesy of a remote-controlled hydro-electric strut to reveal the twin Volvo 440 hp engines, genset, batteries and cables in a neat, albeit snug installation. Power options for the Sargo 36 include twin 320 hp, 340hp, 380 hp and 440 hp.

On a sparkling day on the Hauraki Gulf, I enjoyed driving the Sargo 36, although I’m still a yachtie at heart and was much happier helming at around 23 knots than in the 30-plus range which McGill was

The saloon and galley area is cosy. The lower cabin is accessed through the seat at the rear of the saloon table.

Powered by twin 440hp Volvos, the Sargo 36 cruises at 28 knots and has a top speed of 41 knots.

more than happy to demonstrate. We had a slight harbour chop mixed up with ferry wakes and recreational craft from cruising yachts to high-speed launches. Motuihe Channel was doing its windagainst-tide demonstration so there was enough movement to test the boat’s handling and I was impressed. There was no slamming off the waves and the boat’s spray chines effectively deflected the spray. Apart from a sea-kindly hull, the skipper has additional tools for optimum trim. The Sargo’s Volvo Penta power trim assist allows manual adjustment of the stern drives to achieve optimum pitch for the speed. It also has a system similar to Zipwake, allowing either manual or auto adjustment of the trim tabs. I felt the Sargo could easily and comfortably handle more boisterous conditions; its sea-keeping and speed range would make it an ideal candidate for a quick run out to the Great Barrier.

The hull has a moderate vee extending its length and the boat handles well with fly-by-wire steering. It’s super responsive, including the acceleration from the stern drives and duoprops. The insulation in

the hull makes for a quiet boat, especially with the rear door closed; conversation was easy in the saloon. The Sargo is berthed in a narrow fairway but thanks to the bow thruster and twin sterndrives, docking was easy.

The Sargo 36 has fitted in a lot of desirable features such as the walk-around decks, side doors and spacious main cabin with en suite. The trade-off is the impact on space in the helm, galley and saloon. It’s a slightly tricky manoeuvre to get into the helm seats and to make the step up to the saloon table; a table that folded from dining-size to coffee table size would help. The galley-cockpit door is narrower than Kiwis might expect, and generously proportioned folk would find the boat’s interior tight when moving around.

That said, as above, I liked the handling, quality of build, quietness underway and manoeuvrability. It’s always interesting to see new concepts in overseasmanufactured boats and the Sargo 36 has plenty of reasons to appeal to the New Zealand market.

‘ I liked the handling, quality of build, quietness underway and manoeuvrability.’

SPECIFICATIONS

Maker & Model Sargo 36

The All Season Boat Price as tested $1.1m Type Launch

Construction Hand laminated fibreglass

LOA 11.8 m

Beam 3.65 m

Test Power 2 x 440 hp

Power Options Twin sterndrive

HP Range 320hp-440 hp

Fuel Capacity 860 L

Water Capacity 300 L

Manufacturer SARGOBOATS.NZ

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DESTINATION

DENMARK

A Nordic adventure immediately conjures up visions of medieval castles, rugged coastlines, thatched roof homes, drinking, dining, Vikings, and sea voyages. And so, last May, as I flew off to Denmark via Singapore, Frankfurt and Copenhagen and then onto Aalborg in the northern part of Denmark, to join my friends Jess and Mie aboard ‘Karoline’, their 48’ Hallberg-Rassy sailboat for two months of voyaging around Scandinavia, these visions swirled in my mind with great excitement and anticipation.

BY RON CZERNIAK, Marine Journalist

My four flights up to Denmark (almost 40 hours of nonstop flying and transiting) went smoothly, eventually arriving in Aalborg, where Jess picked me up for the half-hour drive to his house in Hals, on Denmark’s NE coast and also the home port for ‘Karoline’. However, ‘Karoline’ was not at home, as Jess had put her into winter storage in Sweden before Covid hit and as a result, she had not been in the water for over two and a half years.

After a weekend recoup, we were on our way early Monday morning to Vendon, Sweden, on the island of Orust, where ‘Karoline’ was in storage. First travelling up to Fredrikshavn, an hour’s drive north of Hals, to get the Stena Danica vehicle/passenger ferry to Gothenburg, Sweden – a most pleasant 4-hour voyage in the comfort of the VIP lounge, courtesy of “frequent traveller”, Jess.

After disembarking at Gothenburg, with Jess’s SUV being packed to the gunnels and allowing for only the driver and one passenger, I was dropped off at the railway station in Gothenburg to take a combination train and bus ride to Henan, near where the boat was stored, while Jess and Mie drove up – all of us arriving at about the same time! Proving public transport can be efficient and cheap if it’s done right!

Having spent a pleasant night at a little lodge in Henan, the next morning it was off to Vendon – Vindo Marin, Orust, Sweden - a short 10-minute drive, to start getting ‘Karoline’ out of hibernation, mast re-stepped and complete all the other jobs that needed to be done to re-commission the big yacht.

Although I have been around boats most of my adult life, actually being involved in getting a boat the size of ‘Karoline’ (48’) ready for cruising after a lengthy storage period, was a laborious and lengthy, but most interesting experience. Some chores were expected, and some not expected, like trying to figure out why the 110 HP Volvo Penta diesel was not starting easily or running as smoothly as it should - a small bit of electrical tape, floating in a fuel tank had managed to work its way into the fuel feed line; the minor blockage preventing proper fuel flow. Once removed, everything was fine, and the engine ran as it should. So, after four days of scrubbing and cleaning, provisioning and checking, we were ready for our first sea trial to ensure everything was indeed as it should be. We decided that a short six-hour trip down the southeast coast of Orust Island to the snug harbour of Dyron Nordhamnen, on the island of Stora Dyron (South Dyron), would serve admirably as a shakedown cruise. And so, it did.

At this point, I should mention, even though to any reader of this magazine, it should be obvious by now, that this Scandinavian boating adventure was undertaken on a sailboat and that the name of this magazine is Pacific POWER Boat. But, by way of a minor defence, the 2023 summer boating season in Sweden and Denmark was particularly wind-free, so a significant percentage of motoring was done, and the Iron Spinnaker (110 hp Volvo diesel) put in more hours over our two months of voyaging, than all the combined sails aboard.

On route south we stopped for lunch in the quaint port of Lyckorna, historically known for its restorative baths established in 1887. Upon arrival at the southern end of Stora Dyron, we intended to spend the next few days being moored in the popular southern harbour; where a well-known sauna facility is located. However, being a long weekend in Sweden, we discovered that it was already packed with boats. So, Plan B: Motor around to Nordhamnen (North Harbour), which had ample room for ‘Karoline’ and which turned out to be a “silver lining” option, as it was not as busy and a much nicer anchorage.

Although there was lots of room in the harbour, ‘Karoline’ is a sizeable boat, so we needed to tie alongside a forty-three-foot Swedish sailboat, already moored beside the wharf. A fortuitous situation, as the captain (Kenneth) and his partner were a lovely couple, and Kenneth was particularly gregarious and friendly.

Stora Dyron, known for its cliff side public sauna which we visited, is even better known for its walking trails that crisscross and encircle the rugged island. We availed ourselves of the two major walks: the first day, south, then east and north, and finally back south through the village to ‘Karoline’s’ berth at Carmona Dyron. We were extremely fortunate with the weather and on the second day, it being sunny and reasonably warm (high teens), Mie convinced me that a swim in the sea would be a great idea.

I will admit that it did take some convincing, knowing that the sea temperature was still only about 10 degrees Celsius! So, after a 15-minute walk to a sandy beach and pier, it was a short plunge for me. Mie, on the other hand, was in for several minutes. But, let it be noted, she swims in the sea most days; winter and summer, so she is much more acclimated to this sort of Nordic nonsense! Must admit, however, that it was invigorating, the close-by public ablution block, with excellent hot showers, making the experience a tad more agreeable.

That afternoon after a lovely lunch in the cockpit of ‘Karoline’, it was off on our second major walk around the island. This time in a counterclockwise direction west, then north and finally east and south back through the village to the boat. The views were outstanding as Sweden is so ruggedly beautiful.

The shake-down voyage complete, we set sail back to Vindo Marin to undertake the final niggly jobs, which had to be completed before Jess felt comfortable to undertake the 2023 summer of cruising in ‘Karoline’. Well, we started the day sailing but ended up motoring back to Vendon on a glassy sea. The final problems were sorted after a couple of days, and with everything completed to the captain’s satisfaction, we were ready to set off for the Kattegat Sea to start our voyage south down the Swedish coast and onto Denmark.

We awoke to a foggy day but, fortunately, the mists soon cleared and by mid-morning, we were enjoying bright sunshine and a warm day, but alas, no wind, so more motoring. Which, as it turned out, was not such a terrible thing, as there was a multitude of narrow channels to navigate on our way to the Kattegat where the captain intended to travel the extremely picturesque “Inwater Passages” as they are referred to in Scandinavia (as opposed to open seas). The architecture of the homes along the Swedish coast are so wonderfully unique that pictures just don't do the beauty of these buildings justice.

On our way south towards Gothenburg (Sweden), we stopped for lunch at Karingon Island which holds a special place in my memory, as this was the first Swedish harbour that we visited five years ago on our first cruise on ‘Karoline’ around Scandinavia and as far north as Aalesund in Norway. This delightful little harbour was made more special this visit as fortuitously we were able to reunite with Milla and Claus, who own a small hotel on the island and with whom five years ago we enjoyed a wonderful meal shared with newfound Swedish friends. Perhaps I was just fortunate, but now, after two long voyages in Scandinavia, I would have to say that the people in this region of the world are among the most hospitable and friendly that I have ever met, and I’ve done a lot of global travelling.

Leaving Karingon we wended our way to Skarhamn Harbour, home to many wonderful old wooden sailing and power vessels. Hoping not to become tedious in this article, take it as read that throughout Scandinavia, the restoration and maintenance of old boats seems to be a national pastime.

Scandinavia must be on a bucket list for lovers of old wooden boats. Travelling the waters that lap the Swedish and Danish coasts you find yourself passing, or being passed by, a wonderous array of boats of all sizes and shapes and although here in New Zealand we rightfully think of ourselves as a boating nation, we can’t match centuries of maritime history and to see vessels over a hundred years old still in great shape and still traversing these waters is certainly a treat.

Speaking of centuries old, after a while one takes it for granted that as you voyage through the “In Waters”, it is commonplace to pass old monasteries, churches, houses and castles; the famous Carlsten Castel, built in 1658, on Marstrand Island, being one of many we were to site on this voyage.

Towards the end of May, having enjoyed an unseasonably warm spring, we reached the port of Ockero Hamn in Sweden and set about preparing for our voyage across the Kattegat Sea to Denmark. Captain Jess decided that a stop at Laesoe Island off the east coast of Denmark, and not far from Karoline’s home port of Hals, was in order and for the first time in weeks we actually enjoyed a superb sail, the ‘iron spinnaker’ finally getting a reprieve, and with NW winds averaging 20 to 25 knots and a moderate sea, we made good time, laying Laesoe Island by late afternoon.

Meeting up with fellow boating friends of Jess and Mie’s, we spent two pleasant sunny (but chilly, blustery) days in Oesterby Havn, the main harbour on Laesoe Island. Oesterby Havn is quintessentially quaint and lovely. Anyone who has spent time in Denmark will acknowledge that Oesterby is Denmark in a nutshell. At this point I must point out that the Danes still have strong Viking genes in their veins, evidenced by the fact that although it was a sunny day, even though the temperature was only 12 degrees Celsius, and the wind was blowing around 35 knots, it was decided that we would all dine for lunch El Fresco on the wharf. So, what choice had I but to join in and to prove that I too was on my way to becoming a Viking, stripped to the waist, to drink and dine

Strolling around the island, one can not help but snap photos, such is the essence of this place. Interestingly, links with New Zealand exist here as well, witnessed by the fact that upon visiting a wee shop/café on our walk through the village, what did I encounter but a bottle of Babich Chardonnay for sale for a mere 170 Krone (NZ $40.00). The weather gods blessed us with a beautiful sunset around 9:30 pm on this rugged island as we headed for our bunks for a good night’s sleep before departing in the morning for Hals on the northeastern coast of Denmark, where we had last been three weeks previously.

We were to spend about 4 days in Hals, reprovisioning, refuelling and sorting out one of the Lithium-Ion Phosphate batteries that was found to have a faulty cell and thus the whole battery had to come out from under the aft cabin berth and be replaced. Not an easy task as these sizeable batteries weigh about fifty kilos each! Hals is a harbour and tourist town with a population of about 2,500 on the east coast of the Jutland peninsula in northern Denmark, sitting at the eastern entrance of the Limfjord in northwest Jutland, which now has entries both from the North Sea (Thyboron) and the Kattegat (Hals), separating the North Jutlandic Island from the rest of the Jutland Peninsula.

Steeped in history, Hals was a most pleasant village and port to hang out in until we were ready to set off again just before midnight on June 4th and never was there a more perfect night to depart for a voyage down the east coast of the Jutlandic peninsula to the ‘Nose’ of Denmark and the safe harbour at Grenaa The, all-but-full moon, with the appearance of a large orange, illuminated our passage and set just as the light of dawn made its presence known in the east, as at this time of year and at these latitudes (about 60 degrees north), there are barely six hours of darkness. The only downside was that by 4:00 am the temperature had dropped to four degrees Celsius, and the navigation cockpit lights reflected on a very “rugged up” crew member! We arrived in Grenna after a magical eight-hour voyage. Stopping there only long enough for an excellent omelette breakfast prepared by Mie’s adult daughter, Emma who had joined us for her first-ever night sail. After a brief rest, as Jess and I had spent most of the night on watch, it was off again, sailing south down the coast towards Ballen Harbour on the Island of Samso some eight hours comfortable cruise on calm seas with only a slight easterly breeze of about six knots. Samso sits at the opening to the southern end of the Kattegat in the southernmost part of

Denmark. Here we were to spend the next few weeks cruising through this most delightful part of the country, which borders the northern peninsula with Germany.

Ballen is a wonderfully protected harbour facing directly east, with an imposing breakwater offering protection in even the most horrendous storms. However, on the afternoon we arrived, the sky was brilliantly clear and blue with barely a hint of wind and after securing ‘Karoline’ alongside the wharf for the night, what better way to end the day, but with a fine dinner at the Skipperly Marina Restaurant, a mere 5-minute walk from the boat? I chose an excellent New Zealand Catalina Sounds Sauvignon Blanc to accompany the meal of local venision, as a treat for my fellow crew members in appreciation for two wonderful days and nights of cruising.

Something I have been intending to discuss each time I mention a port, harbour or marina where we stayed each night, is the fact that the facilities for boaties are, without exception, fantastic. There are always immaculately clean toilets and shower facilities and usually a building or large room to hang out in, prepare a meal ashore or just relax on a comfortable chair and read a book or the local newspaper. And the best part is that these facilities are all provided as part of a very modestly priced nightly harbour fee. Sorry New Zealand, but we could learn much from our Danish friends.

After a most pleasant stay at Ballen Havn, the following morning broke crystal clear. But by 8:30 am, just as we were about to depart, a sea fog began to roll in over an absolutely flat sea, everything conspiring to present us with an eerily beautiful experience. We motored south in an all-enveloping fog bank except out to the west, over the mainland, which we could see was bathed in brilliant sunshine. Although stunning, one has to be exceptionally diligent in these conditions as the Kattegat is strewn with fishing buoys, indicating that there are nets beneath, generally strung between two

sets, so if you spot one, it is prudent to quickly spot the other just in case you find yourself getting snagged on the nets below if you venture between the two buoys. Later in the day, the sea fog cleared, and a NW breeze set in allowing us to shut down the ‘iron spinnaker’ and hoist the actual spinnaker for the sail to our next destination; Nyborg, where Jess and I celebrated Danish Fathers Day.

However, as we travelled south and before making port, I was treated to a formidable view, approaching and voyaging under the Great Belt Bridge. Denmark, being a nation of numerous islands, is renowned for its bridges and countless ferries small and large, which enable its inhabitants to travel seamlessly around their country. But the Great Belt Bridge is something else, being almost seven kilometres long and 256 metres above the water at its highest arch, it connects the Danish Island of Funen to the mainland. Impressive!

Before continuing my story, it is interesting to reflect that while undertaking a voyage such as this, even though my Danish friends had travelled these waters previously, for me it was a voyage of discovery, scarcely knowing what the next day or port would bring. One realizes that the exciting joy of discovery is indeed good for one’s soul. So, to discover and stay in the port of Nyborg for a few days was yet another unexpected delight for so many reasons – some anticipated some not. And isn’t that what makes life interesting?

Nyborg Marina, nestled almost beneath the Great Belt Bridge would have to rank as one of those almost perfect anchorages. A quote from the Nyborg Marina website sums it up quite accurately. Nyborg Marina, which is one of Funen's largest marinas, is a modern city harbour with approximately 600 boat berths for all boat types. There is plenty of room to manoeuvre, which makes the marina particularly attractive – also for new sailors. Everyone is welcome and there is always room here.

Nyborg Memorial Service held every year on June 6th, was accompanied by all the pomp and ceremony befitting those who sacrificed their lives to protect Denmark.

We were to enjoy two pleasantly warm days under clear blue skies In Nyborg and on the day after our arrival, we were fortunate enough to witness, just off our stern where we were moored, a memorial service for those mariners from the Nyborg region, who died in WWII. Extremely moving to say the least.

Leaving the almost empty harbour of Nyborg the following morning, we were once again greeted with another day of sea fog, but with the promise of sunshine and good weather later in the day. Setting off to Svenborg, which to reach from the open sea, you need to zig-zag several times up a fairly narrow channel, but once there, what a delightfully protected harbour. The fog did clear, but the wind direction was pretty much on our nose the whole trip, which as the crow flies was only 25 NM, but for us, tacking back and forth like a drunken sailor, we covered almost 38 NM before reaching our destination, arriving at Svendborg late afternoon. But, as the old saying goes, any day out on your boat, beats a day in the office.

Svendborg is a wonderful old city, steeped in history situated on the island of Funen in south-central Denmark. With a population of almost 30,000, Svendborg is Funen's second-largest city. In 2000 Svendborg was declared "Town of the Year" in Denmark, and in 2003 it celebrated its 750th anniversary as a market town. Put this into context. It was a busy market town about the time the Māori first arrived in New Zealand!

As Jess had business to attend to while we were in port, Mie and I took the opportunity to dig the collapsable bikes out of the stern lockers and head off for a bike riding adventure on Tåsinge Island, which sits off the southern tip of Funen Island. Setting off after breakfast, I thought we might be gone for a few hours. Wrong!

Mie had other ideas and, as it turned out, we didn’t get back to the boat until about dinner time. Admittedly we did stop for a light lunch and later iced coffees, but what a wonderful day and what a great way to explore the island, which is accessed by a vehicle, as well as by a cycle and pedestrian-friendly, arched bridge over the wide channel between Svendborg and the town of Vindeby. We had enjoyed a stunningly clear, sunny, but cool day, ideal for cycling delighting in the rural scenery and beautifully authentic old homes. Tåsinge presents an idyllic picture of what Denmark used to look like back in the good old days.

The people of Tåsinge have always had a close connection to Valdemars Slot (Castle), a 17th-century stone palace owned by the Valdemar family, with a courtyard and gardens, situated at the northeast end of the island. Cycling the old roads and pathways, you cannot fail to notice how clean and tidy (cliché, yes but so true) everywhere is in Denmark.

Wherever we voyaged, it seemed like maritime history came to life as though it were yesterday. The plethora of old boats and ships, power and sail become so overwhelming that after a while, what initially seemed so unique, becomes almost commonplace. Not in a blasé way, but in a satisfying way.

Just strolling around Svendborg is to step back in time, and for me, one of the fun things about wandering aimlessly in a place you’ve never been to before is discovering the unexpected. Wonderfully kept old buildings, stopping for a while and listening to a trio of musicians playing in a public square, bringing one complete serenity on a lovely sunny afternoon.

Reflecting on our two months of Scandinavian sea voyaging, so many ports stand out in my mind, but Svendborg more so than most. However, after a few extremely enjoyable days here, it was time to embark on the second leg of our journey, setting off west/ northwest towards Faaborg on the island of Fyn’s southern coast, about 20 NM from Svendborg. (to be continued….)

DMW TRAILERS CELEBRATE 50 YEARS

In 2024, DMW Trailers Ltd (Dutton Marine Wholesale) celebrate a huge milestone of 50 years in business, family-owned and operated.

In 2003, the business shifted to its current location at 12 Karewa Place, Te Rapa, to allow Rollo’s Marine to expand their workshop space and take over the DMW yard. The purpose-built new factory has served the business well over the past 20 years and is currently being extended to allow more indoor space for the production and assembly of trailers. DMW Trailers sees the future potential in the industry and therefore feels the time is right to increase the factory size by nearly double. DMW Trailers were pioneers of the multiroller style trailer with Greg Dutton, the first to put this system across his range of trailers, as opposed to the keel support trailers that had traditionally been used. This was a game changer for the industry to improve the ability to easily launch

In 2014, Greg and Trudy bought Greg’s brother, Gary, out of DMW Trailers to separate the businesses in an amicable split. This meant Greg was able to have sole focus on DMW trailers and their customers.

In 2015, Greg and Trudy’s son Brad joined the DMW Team, to help with marketing, sales and general management of the business. Brad came from retail sales at Rollo’s Marine and has been involved in the

marine industry his entire life, much like his father. Earlier this year, Brad became a financial shareholder in the business and the Dutton family is super proud for the business to be continuing into its 3rd generation.

In May 2016, Greg was inducted into the NZ Boat Show Hall of Fame for his 40 years of contribution and service to the NZ Marine industry and the Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show. This is a huge achievement and one of the highest accolades in the NZ Marine Industry.

In 2017, DMW Trailers again took a market-leading approach by designing and supplying a marine-specific DMW mag wheel, manufactured to be standard on all trailers right from Jetski throughout the entire range. This was a key selling feature that really differentiated them from the opposition. DMW also promote New Zealand-made where possible with Aerofast tie-downs and wind-up jockey wheels & winches. They also are the importer of the Genuine Bearing Buddies made in the USA, which are fitted standard on all their trailers.

Greg Dutton says the DMW difference is “that we know boats from our long involvement in the marine industry, and

every DMW Trailer is custom built to the boat it sits on. For that reason, we get a better fit, and an easier launch and retrieve.” The company's core values are focussed around uncompromising attitude to great service, product knowledge, friendly, quick response to customer enquiry and they value the personal relationships they have created along the way.

DMW are proud to be the trailer of choice for over 35 dealers nationwide and are the majority of trailers under new boats for Stabicraft, Senator, Haines Hunter, Buccaneer, Profile, Marco, Smuggler, BRIG, Beneteau, Bullet, Smartwave, Mac as well as Yamaha Waverunner and Sea Doo Jetskis. DMW Trailers also specialise in general

trailer repairs, refurbishing and WOF work. The installation of, and overhaul of, braking systems, from override (under 2500 kg) to the hi-tech Sensabrake and Credo Electric over hydraulic (over 2500 kg), are all part of the service.

Outside of trailers, both Greg and Brad have a passion for boating in general and more specifically, water ski racing. Both are Life Members and Hall of Famers of the NZ Water Ski Racing Association and both have competed at several World Championship Events. Brad is the organiser of the Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic which has been running for 40 years in 2024. DMW Trailers is a proud sponsor of this event.

Greg also has a passion for classic boats, of which he has 3 Mason Clippers along with other ski and race boats. His 24ft Mason Clipper “Benedictine” which he restored 10 years ago remains his favourite boat he has owned.

In its 50th year, DMW Trailers are still looking to grow with the marine industry and pioneer and innovate along with their customers. Having now produced over 23,000 trailers, they want to thank their loyal dealers who have been on this journey of 50 years with them. “The support and service that the dealers offer our end user customers is second to none and our dealers are very important to us”, says Dutton. They would also like to thank all the staff

that have been a part of the team in the last 50 years. Over that time many great staff members have come and gone from the DMW family, but their efforts are all very much appreciated.

Finally, DMW Trailers would like to thank the retail customers who buy their trailers, some of whom are repeat customers who are loyal to the brand and have come back many times as they upgrade their boats over the years. They are the reason the business is still going 50 years later. DMW Trailers know you have a choice and they appreciate that you continue to back New Zealandmade and designed products to put under your pride and joy.

WE DO DAY SKIPPER COURSE!!

The Day Skipper - CE Certificate course is an introductory Coastguard Education course for all members of the family or crew, including those new to boating. It is particularly suited to those who are new to the responsibility of being a skipper on their own vessel.

Some time ago, the team at Powerboat Magazine discussed the idea of completing a Day Skipper Course through Coastguard Education. Initially, I felt some apprehension.

Over the past decade, I've been heavily involved in a marine painting business, alongside Doug as a co-owner. However, recent events led to a significant shift: the unexpected loss of Barry Thompson, Doug's business partner, prompted me to sell our business to support Doug and Powerboat Magazine.

My boating expertise was primarily in the components and their undersides, courtesy of our painting business. Despite this knowledge, I harboured doubts about my ability to handle a boat in emergency situations – from launching

to navigation. Thus, I eagerly took up the challenge and opportunity a boating course offered, driven by both personal curiosity and a desire to align with the ethos we promote in our magazine: encouraging readers to engage in boating activities.

The course proved accessible and engaging. Divided into five modules, its online format allowed me to progress at my own pace, fitting seamlessly into my daily schedule. I wholeheartedly recommend undertaking such a course, whether you're a novice seeking to enter the world of boating or a seasoned enthusiast looking to refresh your skills.

COURSE PURPOSE

This course is for recreational pleasure craft operators and crew and covers general knowledge required to operate a pleasure craft in familiar waters during daylight hours, at an introductory level.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Demonstrate knowledge of:

Components of a boat and its equipment.

Basic boat handling techniques.

The use of navigational charts.

Basic tide and weather terminology.

Bavigational marks.

Maritime Rules and Regulations.

The causes of and preventative actions to be taken in emergency situations.

Common marine knots and their application.

CERTIFICATION

On successful completion of this course, you will have achieved Coastguard Education's Day Skipper Certificate. This is an internal certification only and is not recognised by any qualification authority or standard setting body, i.e., NZQA unit standards do not apply.

COURSE DURATION

Taken as Classroom Study and depending on the course structure, i.e., weekends or nights, an in-class time commitment of 16 hours will apply.

Taken as Online Study your course enrolment is valid for 15 weeks from the date of enrolment. After the 15 week duration, your enrolment ends and you are withdrawn from the course. Both classroom and online courses require a similar time commitment to complete.

You can also purchase this course as a Gift.

ON LINE STUDY

Studying for the Day Skipper - CBE Certificate online allows you to study when and from where you want, in your own time. The course can be completed on desktop computers, laptops and some tablets. Note: Due to technical issues, the Day skipper cannot be completed on an iPad.

As the course includes audio, you will require speakers, headphones or earplugs to fully engage with the course.

The online course covers the same knowledge as that provided in the classroom courses, delivered through engaging interactive modules. It also provides you with the Day Skipper Handbook, as a printable PDF. This handbook is the same resource as that used in the classroom courses.

Taken as Online Study your course enrolment is valid for 15 weeks from the date of enrolment. This commences as soon as you book the course.

CLASSROOM STUDY

Taken as Classroom Study and depending on the course structure, i.e., weekends or nights, an in-class time commitment of 16 hours will apply.

Classroom courses offer students the ability to study intensely over a finite period of time (usually a weekend) to complete a boating course. It is a chance to meet up with other like-minded boaties and learn from their experiences. Having an educated teacher with years of boating knowledge also enables students to be taught face-to-face and ask any questions that may come up.

WOULD YOU BENEFIT FROM A DAY SKIPPER COURSE?

If you’re an occasional boatie who uses your boat for fishing, diving, family outings or just generally having fun on the water, the popular Day Skipper course will give you all the basics needed to help you get the best from your boating, and help you enjoy your time on the water.

Whether you're a boating newcomer, or someone with years of experience, there's always something to learn. The Day Skipper course provides the opportunity to update skills, acquire more knowledge, make boating more enjoyable for yourself and crew and instil safe boating practices. The objective is to help recreational boat users avoid getting into difficulties by helping them understand the maritime environment, the capabilities of their boats, the rules of the sea, and actions to be taken in emergencies.

SOME EXAMPLES OF QUESTIONS & ANSWERS COVERED IN THE COURSE

You are in a power vessel meeting another power vessel in a crossing situation. The other boat is off your starboard bow. What should you do?

You are the give way vessel and the recommended action is to turn to starboard and pass astern of the other vessel.

You suddenly notice a dangerous amount of water in the boat. What steps should you take and in what order?

Remember LIFES:

L = Lifejackets: put them on, if not already being worn

I = Investigate the problem

F = Fix the problem if possible – repair the damage, bail out the water, beach the boat

E = Emit a distress signal – Mayday on VHF or any other signal

S = Stay with the boat

Name four situations where your speed must not exceed 5 knots.

(a) Within 200m of shore,

(b) Within 200m of any vessel flying the “A” (Diver’s) flag,

(c) Within 50m of any other vessel, whether it is underway or moored, or

(d) Within 50m of any person in the water.

Which side of a narrow channel should you use?

Your starboard, or right hand side.

What lights should a 5m runabout display at anchor at night?

White all-round masthead light. Lights must be switched on from sunset to sunrise and in rain or foggy conditions. If the vessel is underway, travelling more than 7kn then it should display red (showing the port side), green (for the starboard side) and white (all-round masthead) lights.

NORTHLAND

Whangarei Coastguard Marsden Cove

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Sunday 21 July 2024.

Whangarei Coastguard Marsden Cove

DATE & TIME

Sat 27th - Sun 28th Jul 08:30 - 17:00

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Sunday 24 Nov 2024 Sat 30th Nov - Sun 1st

AUCKLAND

Coastguard Education office - Westhaven

This course will run over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Monday 8 July 2024.

Coastguard Education office - Westhaven

Chinese Mandarin language only. 5 evenings.

Outboard Boating Club of Auckland

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Thursday 15 August 2024.

Howick Coastguard

This course will run over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Thursday 5 September 2024.

Coastguard Education office - Westhaven

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Thursday 19 September 2024.

Outboard Boating Club of Akld

This course will run over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Thursday 17 October 2024.

WAIKATO / BOP

Tauranga Coastguard

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Sunday 12 August 2024.

Rotorua Coastguard

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Wed 4 September 2024

Taupo Bowling Club

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Sun 10 November 2024

08:30 - 17:00

DATE & TIME

Sat 13th - Sun 14th Jul

08:30 - 17:00

Mon 22nd - Fri 26th Jul

19:00 - 22:00

Sat 17th - Sun 18th Aug

08:30 - 17:00

Sat 7th - Sun 8th Sep

08:30 - 17:00

Sat 21st - Sun 22nd Sep

08:30 - 17:00

Sat 19th - Sun 20th Oct

08:30 - 17:00

DATE & TIME

Sat 17th - Sun 18th Aug

08:30 - 17:00

Sat 7th Nov - Sun 8th Sep

08:30 - 17:00

Sat 16th Nov - Sun 17th Nov

08:30 - 17:00

TIMETABLE OF TUTORIALS

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND DATE & TIME

Hawke's Bay Coastguard Operations & Education Centre

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Monday 11 November 2024.

LOWER NORTH ISLAND

Thistle Hall Community Venue - Wellington

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Friday 12 July 2024. There is restricted access to the venue, involving two 30cm steps to enter.

UPPER SOUTH ISLAND

Ogilvie-Lee Emergency Operations Centre - Picton

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Wednesday 24 July 2024.

Ogilvie-Lee Emergency Operations Centre - Picton

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Monday 2 September 2024.

Port Nelson Training Room

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Wednesday 16 October 2024.

08:30 - 17:00

DATE & TIME

08:30 - 17:00

DATE & TIME

08:30 - 17:00

08:30 - 17:00

- 17:00

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND DATE & TIME

Sumner Lifeboat Station - Christchurch

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Monday 17 Jun 2024.

Sumner Lifeboat Station - Christchurch

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Monday 14 October 2024.

Sumner Lifeboat Station - Christchurch

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Monday 2 December 2024.

Westcoast/Buller Coastguard

This course runs over a full weekend. Last day for registering is Friday 31 August 2024.

- 17:00

08:30 - 17:00

-

7th -

08:30 - 17:00

DESIGNED FOR FUN

James Bond meets Batman with a dash of Humvee and a good dollop of European luxe. A bold statement of a vessel, which drives like a chase scene from a Bond movie and is an all-round weapon of a boat, which commands full concentration at a top speed of 46 knots.

BY KYLE BARNES

– no two ways about it!

The name Axopar is derived from the founder's existing portfolio of successful Scandinavian boats, with Aquador, XO Boats and Paragon Yachts already recognised as well-known, leading brands. The Axopar is another popular

brand from their stable, we had a chance to get out on the water on the AXOPAR 45, a vessel designed for fun, there are no two ways about it.

Axopar’s founding partner and Creative & Innovation director Jan-Erik Viitala, like many successful Nordic entrepreneurs, has a steely determination,

a strong work ethic and an iron will to succeed. Along with being a true adventurer, think map and sign free snowmobile ‘free-rider’, Jan-Erik’s goal is to provide an adventurous ride while avoiding over-engineered and unnecessary solutions and complexity. A boat for everyone. And he’s done it.

The glamourous Simrad 2x12” glass bridge display carved into the dashboard.

With a beam a titch over four metres and larger when the wing chairs are out.

THE LINES

The bow above the water is bluff, slimming down to a fine point of entry as it takes another 45-degree angle aft towards the waterline. The multiple chines start above the waterline when at rest and a hard chine that punctuates the bottom of the freeboard seems to run back all the way to the Portofino stern. This makes for a bullish looking bow that means business. The builders were so intent on keeping this aesthetic they folded all the anchor gear including the sprit back into the anchor locker, where it flips into position ready to hold fast when required.

DAY DREAMING

This weapon of the waves asks you to lay all over it, get comfortable and rest with the sides on the stern pulling out to create seating for around 15 comfortably on the back. The helm station offers up three helm chairs and then there is all the luxe sun-decking up the front. She has the feeling of width at rest, an almost raft-style about the stern with the huge amount of soft seating to lounge on. With a beam a titch over four metres and larger when the wing chairs are out, she is wide, although at first glance doesn’t look it as she is aesthetically girdled by her long lines.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Downstairs is cleverly accessed both traditionally through the door beside the helm and through port and starboard

Gullwing door arrangements from the forward deck under the sunlounge setup. You find yourself in a full-head height cabin, a dark den of sorts, where the forward bed is more than adequate and while comfortable it is definitely not a five-star hotel style ensemble. The mattress footer in fact folds up to produce seating which joins it to the other seats and becomes a conversation pit where all you need is a decent table for a game of cards for seven. Down below is also a wet head area, which loosely means a head and shower combined where the toilet seat remains wet for a while after one has a shower. “Great to have full standing head room in this area" comments Eyachts Queensland manager Rowan McMahon. You do have to ask yourself who uses such a boat and would they sleep on it apart from the odd night and how much time apart from a quick opportune visit they would spend down below in the toot? And the answer is in practical terms is that this is a day boat with a nose for adventure. The accommodation below is spacious and extremely comfortable for an adventurer’s night or two away, with the convenience of a full-sized convenience. This vessel is all about the thrill and adventure topside, it possesses 3 x 300 horsepower engines that easily achieve 40 knots and is simply fun on a stick flat out at 46 knots. Which by the way will spit out just under 50knots if Mercury JPO Joystick is not selected providing a faster set of props, now that’s fast… And Rowan agrees owners are a diverse group of people.

“Four have been sold to clients of all demographics and purposes. The one thing they all have in common is that they are all current Axopar owners who love the brand so much they want to upgrade to the latest and largest model. “But there is no real demographic, generally those buying 37s and larger are higher net wealth individuals looking for looking for a sophisticated but rugged and luxurious day boat and are unlikely to be sleeping onboard – they just want a great day boat. They already have a beautiful house so sleeping on their boat would be more like camping, or perhaps glamping. They really just want to take out 12 friends or so, then take it home, put a hose over it and pop the covers back on. While most owners use the boat solely as a day boat, but there are many who do use as a weekender and spend the night at their favourite anchorage. Being able to blast quickly and safely at 35-plus knots allows you to cover great distances while not breaking the bank on fuel.”

CONTROL CENTRE

With dual electrically operated canvas roofs with harbour covers above you, this makes for great ventilation while ensuring the sun is kept off especially in the warmer climes of places like Queensland or even Sydney Harbour. If you're in a cooler climate, a cabin or the clever cross-top, is probably the way to go. The boat I tested had Silvertex Petrol with Seine piping and the comfortable pilot and two co-pilot seats with flip-up bolsters are rock solid and look the part. But you can always upgrade to the Mediterranean upholstery for a more elegant and plush look. The helm has a clean layout with the control switch panel in glass with illuminated push switches. These switches are deliberate and have an almost “Humvee” feel, a utilitarian style set of buttons that reflect the outdoor adventurous nature of this beast. Sure, it has the glamourous Simrad 2 x12” glass bridge display carved into the dashboard, but it’s the cheeky James Bond-style buttons that give you a sense of its architect’s fanciful vision of the vessel. A kind of a Bond meets Batman with a dash of Humvee and a good dollop of European luxe thrown in. The Intelligent Steering Module (ISM) steering wheel in leather with integrated controls for audio, trim tabs and bow thruster, is a very handy unit with one place for everything you use for seakeeping - fore, aft and athwartships levelling and close quarters manoeuvring.

HANDLING

After many years, I do consider myself a good boatman but there is nothing like leaping over three-metre hollow backed swells at 40-plus knots on a huge tender to throw a little doubt on your abilities. My bravery or lack of it aside, this hull handled everything we could throw at it, dancing on top of the swells. But when my feet were floating due to the lack of gravity, I decided to pull the speed off which ultimately risked nose-diving into the next breaker. The load of water we could have taken onboard was reduced to a bit of sea spray showingoff the vessel’s bow flare. Back into the calmer waters after the drone shoot was over and the cut through on this vessel really shines. Throwing the helm down at 46 knots on most vessels (if you can achieve that speed) creates an unsafe ‘dig in’ in many scenarios, but for what I imagine is the hard chines doing their job, it felt as if she had a cushion of air under her portside as I locked into a port turn with no issues.

ALOFT

The Axopar 45 is designed with a low centre of gravity, the rag top and functional framework of the cockpit roof means you can carry a plethora of equipment with you. Although she only has a one-metre draft to the props, some say that’s not shallow enough and that’s when the fitness folks pop on a couple of canoes to get into the narrows. The other folks in search of some hidden adventure that can’t be found onboard and is well beyond my curiosity level, have been known to strap mountain bikes aloft.

INCLUSIONS

Inclusions are the hand laminated hull in GRP with Vinylester resin for the first coat for osmosis prevention, vacuum infused stringers, a 45” twin-stepped hull with sharp entry bow, bow thruster and integrated engine brackets for 3x Mercury V8 300hp outboard engines. Then there are the trim tabs and underwater lights on transom, Axopar 3D signature chrome logo and openable balcony doors on both sides of hull and the hand laminated self-draining walk around deck with anti-skid finishing and deck lights.

All hardware, pulpits, side rails, high handled bathing

3 x 300 horsepower engines that easily achieve 40 knots and are simply fun on a stick flat out at 46 knots.

Accommodation is spacious and comfortable for a night or two away.

ladder, telescopic bathing ladder, locks, hinges, filler caps, 8x cleats and cockpit grab rail come in 316 stainless steel and there are hooking points for safety harnesses and two large fender storages on the open aft deck and battery/electrical compartment underneath. There is a shower on aft deck, LED navigation lights in the bow and an anchor hatch with dual shore power inlets connected to battery charger. The sofa on the foredeck is in Silvertex Petrol with Seine piping upholstery and harbour cover. Finally, there are 3 x starting batteries, 1 x bow thruster battery and 4 x service batteries included. The complete boat comes in Axopar white gelcoat.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

The open aft deck comes as standard and you can then add on an aft deck bench the bench is standard but an option on the cabin version, a U-shaped sofa or even an aft cabin. Seats and upholstery can be upgraded from Silvertex Petrol with Seine piping to Sandstone, Baltic or Cobre. There seems to be a lot of optional extras

and arrangements to be had with the deck including cooking facility and couch configurations due to the availability of space on the open deck - so bring your ideas along. Which is what the production team behind this brand does every day. Rowan said Axopar’s founding partner and Creative & Innovation director Jan-Erik Viitala was a self-confessed perfectionist and workaholic.

“Jan-Erik is a very passionate man and dedicated to this brand and spends his time predominantly on the production floor finessing things. He also asks his production managers to come to work each week with a production upgrade, which could be something as simple as a new light or a new handle. There is an expectation on his team to always be progressive, always moving forward. They have never rested on their laurels – they are always looking for the next step.”

SUMMARY

This once again galvanises this craft’s place as an adventure boat to explore new places, sneak into untrampled coves, sunbake on myriad sun pads and seats. And offering plenty of scope for the adrenaline junkies who like me simply get their kicks just from the drive.

SPECIFICATIONS

Length 13,90 m / 45ft 7in

Beam 4,11 m /13ft 6in

Draft (excl. engines)

0,85 m / 2ft 10in

Weight (approx. excl. engines) 7000 kg

Fuel Capacity (min.) 1390 litres

Fresh water 250 - 300 litres

Waste water 120 litres

Battery, start 3 x 100 Ah

Battery, service 4 x 120 Ah

Construction GRP

Classification B-offshore / C-coastal Max. speed (approx) +45 kn

Outboard engines 3 x 300 hp

Passangers B:14 / C:16

Berths 2 persons (+2 w. optional aft cabin)

EYACHTS.CO.NZ

EYACHTS.COM.AU

FUEL CONSUMPTION

Idle Speed (1-3kts)

Fuel Consumption: 9 litres per hour

RPM: 600

Slow Cruise Speed (18kts)

Fuel Consumption:

Around 109-118 litres per hour

Optimal Cruising Speed (28-30kts)

Fuel Consumption:

129 litres per hour

RPM: 4000

High Cruise Speed (35kts)

Fuel Consumption:

146 litres per hour

RPM: 4500

High Cruising Speed (46kts)

Fuel Consumption:

270 litres per hour

RPM: 5900

YOUR ADVENTURE AWAITS

Embark on exhilarating adventures along New Zealand’s coastline with the Axopar 45 Cross Cabin . With top speeds of 50 knots and Axopars proven track record for unmatched capabilities, expect unparalleled comfort , safety , and agility both inshore and offshore.

The versatile pilothouse features a U-shaped lounge, wet bar, a seamless flow outside featuring side platforms, and seating for 12 guests . The spacious forward cabin transforms into an additional lounging area for 6 guests, while the separate head offers standing height and a shower—perfect for extended voyages.

PREMIERING SYDNEY BOAT SHOW, AUSTRALIA

GETTING FURTHER ON YOUR FUEL

Products such as Fueltreat Fuel Biocide increase the ability to extract power from your engine reducing your fuel bill and increasing the health of your engine.

Marine 16’s Diesel Fuel Additive - Diesel Fuel

Complete is a multi-functional fuel treatment developed to maintain the quality of stored fuel, keep fuel systems clean, and prevent the growth of Diesel Bug.

What is more important than saving money and avoiding the trips to fuel up your vessel?

Here

are some tips

that might help you save in the long run while still enjoying your time on the water.

The lower the fuel consumption, the happier the skipper or boat owner, correct? Saving fuel is an issue that “burns” many operators, especially when one or more high-horsepower outboard engines are mounted on the boat’s transom. The most economical operating range for modern outboard engines is between 3000 and 4000 rpm corresponding to cruising speeds of about 20 to 35 knots in most rigid hull inflatable boat (RIB) applications. We primarily operate our engine or engines at this when we have to cover long distances. In this article, we will try to explain the ways to reduce fuel consumption at low and medium rpm focusing on the factors that we can change.'

FUEL ADDITIVES

Many of the fuel docks that you visit likely offer the same fuel you would get for your car at a gas station. Using fuel with the right fuel additive will help to keep your boat's engine free of gunk is an important way to maximize your boat engine's fuel efficiency and reduce your engine's fuel consumption.

A fuel additive helps dissolve filter-clogging residue caused by bacteria, adds lubricity to reduce injector wear and stabilizes the fuel. Carbon deposits (gunk) reduce engine efficiency and performance and increase fuel consumption. In many instances, your boat's engine(s) can burn up to 20 times more fuel per hour than your car or truck.

Companies such as Diesel Clean can call at your boat with their De-bug unit, a UV light, filter and separator which runs the fuel through the system a minimum of 3 times to ensure thoroughly clean fuel.

FUEL COMPUTERS

All boat owners on the water today want to squeeze more nautical miles from each litre of fuel. In addition to additives, there is another system that accomplishes that goal electronically - Fuel Computers.

Fuel Computer systems have been designed and manufactured for marine applications for over 40 years, and they have a reputation for accuracy and reliability, whether your boat runs on gasoline or diesel, is an outboard, inboard or stern drive. The heart of the system is an in-line turbine fuel flow sensor, which accurately provides real-time fuel consumption data. The data is routed to a standalone gauge package or through a digital module that links to the vessel's chart plotter which will provide a readout for litres-perhour, and nautical miles per litre, and track how many litres of fuel have been burned since the last refuelling. When you know your boat's real-time fuel burn, you can determine the combination of engine RPM and speed that achieves optimum fuel economy. This elusive figure is the key to operating your vessel in the most fuel-efficient manner. Fuel computer users report significant reductions in fuel consumption, often running at higher cruising speeds than they did before the system was installed. Savings can range from 5 per cent to 20 per cent, depending on vessel hull design, engine and drive system.

Water, bacteria, sludge and dirt contaminate diesel every step of the way from the time it leaves the refinery to the time it sits in your boat's fuel tank. To avoid problems while underway, start a preventative maintenance program for your diesel fuel before your boat ever leaves the dock for a fishing trip or a cruise. Use a full-spectrum fuel additive each time you top off, and polish your fuel regularly. A topof-the-line fuel additive dissolves the filter-clogging residue caused by bacteria, adds lubricity to reduce injector wear and stabilizes the fuel.

Regularly scheduled fuel polishing removes water, dirt and sludge from your tank and restores the fuel to its optimal quality. A bulk-head-mounted fuel polishing system is easy to install in your boat's engine room or engine compartment. The fuel polishing system is plumbed into the diesel fuel tank's pickup and return lines and can operate on either 12V DC or 120V AC power. The fuel polishing system will perform dialysis for your diesel using a multistage filtration process that recirculates your fuel until it is clean and free of contaminants.

Algae do not grow in diesel fuel. Algae requires sunlight and air to grow, neither of which are found at the bottom of a fuel tank. What we call algae is a stew of bacteria, mould and asphaltenes, which clog fuel filters. Only a small amount of the fuel flowing to a diesel engine is used by the injectors, the rest is returned to the tank and recirculated and reused. This returned fuel is very warm, and the heat contributes to the growth of bacteria and mould at the bottom of the tank where fuel and residual water interface. Water is the biggest problem in this situation as microbes live on the oxygen in water and eat the carbon out of the fuel. (There are 127 known microorganisms that will happily live in fuel). Fuel polishing once or twice a month eliminates those contaminants, it will keep clean fuel cleaner for longer, but it will not magically clean dirty contaminated fuel.

'To avoid problems while underway, start a preventative maintenance program for your diesel fuel...'

Make sure that any protuberances in the hull bottom are smoothed and do not interrupt the water flow. There’s no doubt about it - smoothing bottom paint saves fuel and money. A clean hull is more slippery, goes faster and maximizes the fuel economy. Conversely, a fouled bottom can cause reduced engine rpm, decreased speed and increased fuel consumption. Keep the bottom free of fouling with a good antifoul for your region, to get the maximum performance.

Make sure air and oil filters are clean and items such as injectors are tuned properly (black smoke coming from your exhaust system usually indicates injectors that need to be cleaned).

For boats stored in the water, a good application of Propspeed will minimise foul on your running gear

PROPELLERS

One of the major factors that affect the overall performance of our boat-engine combination and its fuel consumption is the propeller. Matching the correct propeller to the boat can improve fuel economy.

When possible, choose a larger diameter. A larger-diameter propeller generally gets better fuel economy at low and medium rpm than a smaller wheel because the bigger one slips less. When stepping up in diameter, we need to reduce pitch to retain the same engine rpm. Beware not to fall into the trap of increasing the propeller pitch to the point of sacrificing the boat’s performance at low rpm or the proper operation of the engine.

Choose a three-blade propeller instead of a four-blade in the same diameter. A three-blade propeller usually delivers better fuel consumption than a four-blade of the same diameter because the extra blade creates drag. The exception is when we’re carrying heavier loads.

Make sure that your propellers are perfectly balanced and free of barnacles and other cling-ons. For boats that remain in the water, ensure to apply a product such as Propspeed to keep your propeller and/or running gear free of foul.

The Propspeed foul-release coating system is a high-impact, low investment Energy Saving Technology (EST) with a compelling ROI. Designed for application to running gear and underwater metals, the biocide-free foul-release coating system is proven to enhance vessels’ efficiency and environmental sustainability, through the reduction of fuel and power consumption from the day it is applied.

"Windroos saw a remarkable 7.5% reduction infuelconsumption & a 4.7% decrease in kilowattusageatcruising speed,afterPropspeed application.Impressedby these results,we’re now implementingPropspeed on all our vessels and recommendingittoour customers."

Ing. Maurits van Maaren, Naval Architect, Padmos, Stellendam (NL).

Check too that all shaft bearings are properly aligned and not worn out. Minimizing vibration and wear makes for a more efficient power train and saves you money.

Depending on the size of your boat your outboard will either be short, long or extra-long shaft, then you can alter the height from there. We all know that there is no ideal engine mounting height because it depends on many factors interacting together. Generally, it’s better to mount the engine as high as possible without adversely affecting lowrpm performance. Having less of the gearcase in the water helps improve fuel economy by reducing drag.

At this point, we acknowledge the value of a hydraulic jack plate that lets a user adjust the ideal engine height to achieve the maximum fuel economy in changing conditions and uses of the boat. Proper engine mounting height and the right propeller can give you up to 50% lower fuel consumption.

PROPER ENGINE TRIM

The proper adjustment of the engine’s trim during a ride determines the boat’s attitude or the angle of the bow related to the surface. A boat’s attitude can significantly affect fuel efficiency. Knowing in advance the rpm range that produces the greatest economy, we use the throttle and trim to reach that setting.

How do we know the correct trim position? An experienced skipper can determine the proper trim position by looking at the spray that exits from the side, watching the wakes and listening to the engine. A less experienced operator should experiment with engine trim while observing the engine(s), the boat speed and fuel consumption to achieve the best

combination of speed and fuel efficiency. When the conditions and load permit, a driver should trim out the engine to bring the cavitation plate parallel to the water surface. Usually, the best trim position is a little bit higher than this because we reduce the exposure of the lower unit in the water while raising the bow. At the same time, we try to keep as much of the hull out of the water minimizing the wetted surface.

All the above recommendations lead to the most efficient running angle, minimizing the drag and improving the fuel economy. Over-trimming the engine will cause the propeller to lose its bite and aerate, leading to reduced speed and increased fuel consumption.

Balancing the weight of people, fuel and chang gives a better ride, making it more fuel efficient.

BALANCING WEIGHT

A heavy load and unbalanced weight distribution are the enemy of the centre of gravity and the correct attitude of a boat. Weight distribution can have a large impact on fuel consumption. This is why we must be particularly careful of the load and where it’s placed. Extra load increases the wetted surfaces of the hull resulting in greater drag and fuel consumption. The heavier the load, the more the fuel is burned and most people bring aboard more than they need. Remove everything you don’t need and load only what is necessary for each trip. There’s no need to carry extra refrigerators or spare anchors with many meters of chain when we will not need them. The same goes for fuel and water when we’re not travelling long distances. This, of course, does not mean that we are risking our safety for the sake of lower fuel consumption. But even more important than the carrying loads is where they are located on board. Smaller boats and those with stepped bottoms are more sensitive to centre of gravity changes that greatly affect attitude. It can downgrade ride quality and increase fuel consumption, especially in bad weather. Store heavier objects around the centre of gravity and on the aft third of your deck, placing the less heavy ones towards the bow. Keep the bow light so you can “listen” to the trim settings and stay high and dry during a trip.

Bringing the revs back and slowing down is part of the adventure - and will also save you fuel.

DRIVING STYLE

Handling the throttle smoothly, avoiding sudden acceleration and maintaining a steady course and consistent speed are sure to improve fuel economy. Keep the engine properly maintained and in good running order. Travel in good weather whenever possible and plan a course in advance. Travelling in bad weather conditions increases fuel consumption because strong headwinds and rough seas create additional resistance and force us to alter our course and fluctuate our speed.

GO SLOWER

We’ve been trained and impressed by how fast a boat goes and that’s not the most important factor (I have heard that in most cases, less than 3% of a boat's engine life runs at full throttle). It’s better to ask what is the boat’s most efficient cruising speed. Chances are that will be from 3500 to 4500 RPM, so find out what that speed is and run there. But the most fuel-efficient range is displacement speeds before the boat tries to start to climb its bow wave. No rule says you have to be planing all the time.

CONCLUSION

We will never achieve optimum fuel economy if we don’t know our boat well, if we don’t handle it correctly or if it is not properly rigged. Think about how many hundreds of miles we cover every season and calculate how much money we can save by implementing the above tips to reduce fuel consumption. Applying the tips recommended in this article will hopefully keep you from spending too much time and money on fuel in the upcoming season.

The writer hooks up softbaiting in Rangaunu harbour in the Far North, with top fishing on offer at our 5th largest harbour.

fishing HARBOUR

The changing seasons from autumn to winter can be a productive time in the shallows, especially in northern harbours and often close to the boat ramp, so remember to fish your feet.

BY MATHEW HEWETSON

This large trevally over 60cm hit a Z-Man softbait in the Rangaunu harbour in only 4m of water.

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Gurnard move into harbours over winter and will happily take softbaits or cut baits.

Shallow harbours hold plenty of baitfish, look to fish between sand banks and deeper channels prospecting for fish.

With summer now behind us and we move from autumn into winter, many boaties will put the cover over the boat and wait until spring. This can of course be a challenging time to get onto the water with the winter weather, but often there are calm, clear days in winter and a lot less people using the waterways.

It is also a great time to explore harbours, we have many throughout the country and although harbours may be expansive shallow stretches of water, they are home to many types of baitfish such as piper, sprats, and mullet. While shellfish such as pipis, tuatua, mussels and crabs are also found in abundance for fish like gurnard, snapper and trevally that move up into harbours to find this food.

In harbours you typically have sand banks that are often exposed at low tide and deeper channels with which the fish use as highways to move up and down the harbour over the tide changes. Many boaties will target the deeper channels where fish are found and you can either anchor and use baits and berley to bring the fish to you, or drift in the boat and cast softbaits or small jigs for good success.

GOING SHALLOW

The shallower sand banks can offer great fishing so don’t discount them, especially over high tide when they are covered with more water and fish move up onto the tops to feed. We have discovered that when fishing in the Kaipara harbour that once the sand banks get just 2-3m of water over them on the incoming tide, trevally and snapper are up on top in large numbers feeding on shellfish, crabs and mantis shrimps that have invaded the harbour and become a new food source for fish.

The fish aren’t afraid to leave the deeper water if the channels to hunt down food and as we drift over the sand banks casting softbaits, with the orange Z-Man Atomic Sunrise 5” softbait proving a deadly lure in the brackish waters of the Kaipara. Try moving up to the larger 7” orange softbait as also another option to help provide a better profile in the dirty water.

TRY SOFTBAITS

Softbaiting in shallow harbours means you can go lighter with your jig heads and leader. I tend to favour 1/2oz or under for my jig heads when fishing under 5m, but when the current picks up and it can really move on the Kaipara at 4-5 knots on the outgoing tide especially around the bigger moon phases, then you need to move up to 1/2oz or heavier. Fishing in harbours means less structure like reefs or kelp to worry about the chances of busting off on fish, so you can move down to lighter leaders between 15-20lb. This enables your softbait to look more natural and less chance

of spooking fish, especially in the gin clear waters of the east coast Far North harbours like the Rangaunu.

Launching off the sand at Rangiputa to fish Rangaunu in this top Far North harbour you can also mix up different softbait colour options and sizes, try the 4” Paddlerz or Grubz to imitate the baitfish like piper or whitebait that are found throughout the harbour.

We have caught a lot of good snapper and trevally to 4-5kg in the Rangaunu and only 600-700m from where we launched off the sand! This sure helps with fuel costs and fishing in only 3m of water and hooking and fighting 60cm+ trevally that smash your softbait, is one of the best fights found in our waters. I can’t recommend it more highly Kiwi anglers wanting a fun day on the water.

FRESH BAITS

Using fresh baits like mullet or kahawai in is a proven winner. Take a bait net if you own one and set it off the mouth of a small creek or where the mangroves are found, as the mullet, piper or sprats are common in such places. Once you cut this up for baits and deploy them at your chosen spot, the snapper and gurnard will soon turn up in numbers usually in less than

The brackish waters of the Kaipara harbour offer great fishing, with this massive waterway the largest harbour in the Southern Hemisphere and right on Auckland’s doorstep.

half an hour as the oily content acts like berley. We use a Minn Kota on our centre console to hold our position and once the fish have arrived in force and start hitting the fresh baits, we cast softbaits out the back which get nailed while at spot-lock anchor! The red-hot fishing experienced in the Kaipara produces good snapper in the 40-60cm range and we usually must stop fishing within two hours as the bin is full.

Use a running rig with a 1/2oz or 1oz ball sinker, depending on the current to ensure your bait is on the bottom. Flasher rigs with the sinker on bottom work well too, especially on gurnard.

Another good point for winter fishing is fish are also in top condition as the drop in water temperature has signalled the change for snapper to fatten up over winter. When filleting the fish back home, you will notice the knife’s blade is covered with fat slicks and the fish taste great when pan fried in panko breadcrumbs. The best tasting snapper of the year in my books.

We have many harbours around the country and if you plan a trip around the weather to a harbour that appeals or spend the time this winter exploring the shallow waters of your local harbour, you will be pleasantly surprised by the results.

“In harbours you typically have sand banks that are often exposed at low tide and deeper channels with which the fish use as highways to move up and down the harbour over the tide changes.”

Fresh kahawai or mullet on a ledger or running rig fished in the Kaipara are good snapper baits.

The writer scored a fat 57cm fish on his first bait and only five minutes from the ramp on the Kaipara in early May.

MULTIPURPOSE for work & play

Upon first glance at the Takapuna Boat ramp, a fitting place for this review, we are surrounded by sailors getting ready to head out to training. It would not be easy to look past the new SeekR 6.2.

WORDS & PHOTOS BY BY RICHARD MILNER

The previous top-rated and practical PerformR that Southern Pacific designed and built-in 2020 was based on over 30 years of marine sports coaches’ ideas, gripes, and desires, with legendary designer Rob Shaw building what was then considered a coach’s dream support boat.

At first glance, the ProformR was a no-nonsense boat designed to go to work in the toughest conditions. However, Southern Pacific is appealing to a wider market, the New Zealand family that wants a lot more out of their centre console RIB. Let’s see how well they have achieved this goal with the new SeekR 6.2.

DESIGN

The very high bow protects the crew from tough seas designed from New Zealand waters on the adage that if it were intended for New Zealand, then it would be great anywhere in the world, and the previous PerformR certainly delivered that and much more. The deep V hull on the SeekR 6.2 has a slightly larger deadrise and the new solid D cell form cells that will never go flat with a Hypalon stretched cover for protection also provide increased stability

and buoyancy, offering generous space. A seat/shelf built into the GRP hull on both sides would provide easy entry into the boat from a pier and some seating opportunities.

At first glance, this is a no-nonsense boat designed for one purpose and one purpose alone, which is being a practical workboat.

COCKPIT AREA

The interior of the SeekR 6.2 takes a no-frills approach to boating, however everything necessary for a day out on the water is there! To allow manoeuvrability around the boat the centre console is compact with enough space for the necessary electronics. It would be advisable to opt for an integrated MFD, as you may struggle to fit that and the multiple engine management gauges in this space. There is a small but valuable windshield that provides protection when you are seated. The helm is set at a natural height and has two storage lockers on the rear, the battery and electronics occupy much of the lower storage space. The SeekR comes standard with a two-person in-line jockey seat raised slightly, providing that comfortable and typical leaning bolster experience with a backrest for

The very high bow protects the crew from tough seas.

Top Right & Above

Left: To allow manoeuvrability around the boat the centre console is compact with enough space for the necessary electronics.

The SeekR comes standard with a twoperson in-line jockey seat raised slightly, with a backrest for long days on the water.

long days on the water. The other option is the Shark Suspension seats that flex up and down, an excellent choice for rough weather boating. I prefer the first option as it also provides further cockpit storage space. Behind these two cockpit seats, the SeekR has an optional bench cushion that fits right across the transom and has two large storage lockers below. This is an important addition, as people would traditionally sit on the tubes in a conventional RHIB.

PERFORMANCE

The deep V hull naturally comes with a stigma that principally the boat will go great in one direction, and that’s straight into whatever mother nature can throw at it, and that like other Deep V hulls, there will be a trade-off in a beam, and following sea. However, I am pleased to report that the SeekR 6.2 handles great directly into the chop and swell and abeam on and down swell. It is a truly remarkable experience. As usual, I suffer from my lead foot or lead right hand and don’t muck about finding out how it

performs at pace. The SeekR 6.2 is predictable, agile, and nimble in the turns. It doesn’t appear to matter a great deal if you are trimmed hard in or out a little, and that sharp entry and large 22-degree deadrise certainly will account for that. Trimmed in the usual go-fast position, the boat doesn’t disappoint, and with the 100hp Suzuki outboard, the boat got along at a respective 38 knots straight into the chop in the Rangitoto channel in Auckland. The typical South Wester in Auckland with 15-20 knots gave us a good feeling of the conditions the boat would be used in. At higher speeds, it was dry for both the helm and the passenger behind, but at slower speeds, around 17 knots, the spray from the hull when coupled with the wind did make for a damper experience. Anyone sitting on the cushion at the transom would get wet no matter the speed or conditions. This wouldn't be an issue for sportspersons in their wet kit; however, for the family heading out for a pleasurable afternoon, this may prove more challenging.

I was impressed with how well it cornered, and at

no time did I feel uncomfortable or like I was in a position I was not expecting. The helm answered nicely, and the turning circle was impressively tight. For anyone new to this design, the exceptionally high bow section may be a little off-putting as it feels like you are always trimmed out too far, but this offers excellent versatility. You can trim for performance without sacrificing bow penetration. A useful maximum payload of 540kg provides many options for people and equipment.

FEATURES

The SeekR 6.2 has been designed with a pedigree of workboats in mind, which shows through in this boat. Southern Pacific has fitted the boat with an 80L fuel tank, which, for the size of the boat, coupled with a modern fuel-efficient outboard and the typical intentions in mind will give a versatile range. The fuel tank is fitted forward under the helm to counter the usual weight at the rear.

This SeekR 6.2 is fitted with dual towing poles, which is what the customer wanted for towing several

“The SeekR 6.2 handles great directly into the chop and swell and abeam on and down swell. It is a truly remarkable experience.”

smaller boats at the same time. Otherwise, a hoop is also an option, ideal for water toys such as a biscuit or wakeboard.

A good transom step with a ladder on the starboard side offers excellent water entry and exit.

It is great to see that the boat is fitted with dual scuppers to help remove water from the deck quickly and a simple yet effective rope and cleat system for locking them off. It is also great to see that a bilge pump is a standard feature.

There is an anchor locker in the bow, and Southern Pacific tells me that the next boat in production will have a through-bow fitting for the anchor and a drum winch. I think this is a great idea, and it provides flexibility without the mess and scuffing over the bow. The bow also features a carbon fibre keel capping to protect that sharp-entry GRP hull from unwanted debris in the water.

So, at this point, I have to consider that while I have spent a great deal of time in my life on support boats laying marks, coaching kids, using inflatables for media work, and scuba diving, the SeekR 6.2 is not

Southern Pacific prides themselves on their ability to customise boat fit-out to owners requirements.

Trimmed in the usual go-fast position, the boat doesn’t disappoint, and with the 100hp Suzuki outboard, the boat got along at a respective 38 knots straight into the chop in the Rangitoto channel in Auckland.

The SeekR has an optional bench cushion that fits right across the transom and has two large storage lockers below.

The helm is set at a natural height and has two storage lockers on the rear, the battery and electronics occupy much of the lower storage space.

just a workboat. The test boat on the day as rigged, did not offer too many creature comforts for typical family pleasure boating. These can be added to the individual purchaser’s requirements such as handholds, rod holders, bait boards and sun shade/s. Southern Pacific prides themselves on their ability to customise boat fit-out to the owner’s requirements. For its pedigree, the boat has been designed for something else: ensuring our water sports coaches have the very best New Zealand boat building can offer. It is a platform for keeping Kiwis on the world stage, and let’s face it, that is precisely what this SeekR 6.2 is designed for and will do exceptionally well, with the ability to take the family out for an adventure after the sailing is over.

Price $78,000 inclusive of GST and a Futura Trailer

PERFORMANCE

“I was impressed with how well it cornered, and at no time did I feel uncomfortable or like I was in a position I was not expecting”

MARINE BATTERIES

TYPES, MAINTENANCE & THE FUTURE….

Marine batteries serve a specific purpose on boats, featuring sturdier construction and heavier plates to endure the rigours of marine environments, including vibrations, parasitic loads and impacts common aboard powerboats. loads Despite being pricier than automobile batteries, opting for a marine battery is crucial for longevity and reliability on a boat.

TYPES OF MARINE BATTERIES

There are three basic lead-acid types of marine batteries: However, there may be more than meets the eye. To further enhance the performance of these batteries in differing applications and mounting stations, there are various chemistries available to ensure the health safety of the operator and enduring performance and longevity of the battery.

MARINE STARTING BATTERIES provide the high amperage over a short duration required to start an engine and rapidly recharged by the engine alternator. Choosing the best chemistry, Flooded, Maintenance free or sealed AGM may be determined firstly by the mounting station. Environmental temperatures have a large bearing on the longevity of your battery

• Flooded batteries will exhale Oxygen and Hydrogen (water) but also carcinogenic sulphuric mist - not good for your health.

• Maintenance Free batteries are not sealed but gassing is reduced with calcium additive requiring a recharge voltage from 14.8 ~ 15.2v to fully charge.

• *The AGM fully sealed battery is a great performer but will not tolerate continual heat over 30degC. Fitted in the engine bay of a launch or a yacht in the tropics requires a bit of thought. Once dried out, cannot be rectified.

MARINE DUAL-PURPOSE BATTERIES combine the performance of starting and deep cycle batteries and are a good choice on smaller vessels when there’s no room for two batteries. While they're able to perform the tasks of starting and deep cycle applications, they are a compromise and not as efficient as separate batteries.

MARINE DEEP CYCLE BATTERIES are designed to discharge deeply over a long period of time and to withstand several hundred cycles. They are also available in the three chemistries as are the start batteries above with the addition of Gel..

• * Flooded batteries have a good cyclic life (Around 700 cycles at 50% depth of discharge, DoD) and require the addition of water (electrolyte maintenance).

• * Maintenance-free (MF) Deep Cycle batteries are good in certain applications.

• At 300 cycles at 50% DoD does cost less but a good option for the day tripper every week or so.

• * AGM are probably the best value for money with from 680 ~ up to 1000 cycles with no maintenance.

One can look at the capital outlay of the Battery bank or assess the cost of ownership by cost per cycle. The battery with more initial cost however may be cheaper to own when calculating cost per cycle.

A deep-cycle battery is the right choice for powering an electric trolling motor and other battery-powered accessories such as audio systems, winches, MFDs and appliances.

They are not good to start batteries due to heavier plate density restricting CCA.

If you have a trolling motor, thruster, windlass, or other batterypowered accessories that draw varying amounts of current, you will need a separate deep-cycle house battery for that purpose. A good quality battery will tolerate high rates of discharge/recharge cycles often.

The battery is constructed with thicker, heavier plates to endure the longer, higher amperage draw of those consumers where that heat will distort the thinner plates of a cranking battery leading to an early failure.

The quick way to assess your battery condition is to have it “load tested.” Most auto parts or battery specialty stores will load-test your battery and report on its serviceability. There are more indepth testing procedures if required to identify capacity or run time at a given amperage draw. Ideally, a Discharge test will let you know your battery's state of health.

The rest of your electrical and charging systems may need some inspection also, as something other than the battery itself may be the cause of a problem.

This is

b attery specialists

Consult your boat owner’s manual or a marine dealer when replacing a marine battery, and be sure to buy a new battery that is a good match for your boat. Marine batteries are rated by their ampere-hour (AH) rating, reverse capacity (RC), and marine cranking amps. (CA)

When shopping for a deep cycle battery, you'll want to pay the most attention to the ampere-hour rating and reserve capacity. When comparing brands, the heavier the better.

For starting batteries, focus primarily on the marine cranking amps.

Assess all three ratings when searching for a dualpurpose battery.

If you add electrical accessories to your boat, you may need to upgrade to a battery with a higher amp-hour rating, especially if you spend a lot of time trolling with the engine at a very low speed (which results in less charging power from the alternator) or you spend a lot of time beached or at anchor while using accessories like the audio system.

LITHIUM BATTERY SYSTEMS

Batteries have always provided valuable electrical storage on boats. But in recent years, we’ve seen a big improvement in battery technology, particularly with lithium-based systems that can offer far superior performance to traditional batteries.

Charging your battery is an important aspect of maintaining your boat so it can perform its best. Most of us understand that when we are buying a new or used boat, the batteries supplied may not necessarily be top-of-the-line. If they seem to do the job, we don’t think much about them. But in warmer climates, everyday heat is a major enemy of batteries and can shorten their life considerably.

If you put your boat in storage for the winter, how the battery is cared for during this period is also critical to increasing life expectancy.

It’s best to keep batteries on a regulated Maintenance charger to maintain a charge while not in use. A battery that is not charged (and kept charged) can freeze in cold temperatures and a cracked case is the likely result. A battery is like a lot of things in life—use it or lose it! A car battery will typically last longer than a boat battery because the car is used regularly and stays charged.

When it comes to boats, the old adage of a battery’s life being 3-5 years is pretty well on the mark. You’ll usually get a heads-up when it’s about to give up on you, with the warning being a “dead” battery one morning or a bit slower cranking speed than you’re used to. You plugin the charger, the battery miraculously comes to life, and you’re off on your trip.

You may think a light was left on or the radio memory pulled the voltage down. The reality may be that the battery is sulphating, the plates are warped, and it no longer takes or holds a charge like it once did.

Lithium battery systems are a great way to go, but first, they need to be high-quality lithium products. And second, they need to be installed correctly – i.e. you can’t just swap it over and expect it to work properly. (Always talk to a marine electrical specialist or battery specialist first).

Traditionally Lithium battery systems require higher initial outlay,those upfront investment has been worth while in the longer term. The game has markedly changed with price of lithium batteries plummeting with investment in a setup of Lithium batteries costing marginally more than a good lead battery setup.

Lithium provides more capacity - but it also means owners will spend less time charging and more time boating!

Lithium lasts 10 – 12 years,compared to 5 years for standard batteries. There can be significant savings on space and weight and charging is quicker - shorter time to run engines or generators for charging - using less fuel to charge and less generator noise.

Owners of offshore cruising boats who spend many days on the water at once have always enjoyed the benefits & economics of lithium batteries.

In more recent times there has been explosion in the installation of lithium batteries on white boats & surprising trailer boats. The former has been driven by the economics of not having to replaced batteries every 5 years, the energy density, twice

the energy in the same footprint and the trend of installing larger inverters operating the vessel in “quiet ship” mode especially at the end of a day’s boating.

The surprising increase of lithium on trailer boat has been initially driven by the installation of large electric trolling motors largely used in preference to deploying an anchor while fishing, holding the vessel on station. More recent trends for energy storage has been to removing LPG from vessels for cooking/heating using electric induction hobs for cooking & small hot water cylinders for heated water. But probably most surprising energy storage for powering drive legs on amphibious trailer boats, this is quieter and an easier cost-effective installation.

When you install lithium batteries you need to review the complete energy setup, most changes will be around the charging setup. And it all needs to comply with NZ Marine Electrical Standards, in particular, AUS/NZS 3004.2:2014 to get your EWOF -this is important for safety and insurance.

'Lithium provides more capacity - but it also means owners will spend less time charging and more time boating!'

TIPS FOR AVOIDING BATTERY PROBLEMS

• Secure the marine battery with a good battery tray, which should have a base that is screwed or bolted to the boat and either a rigid bracket or a locking strap to hold it to the base. You don’t want the battery banging around in rough water.

• Frequently check the battery terminal connections to make sure they are snug and free of corrosion. Replace the wing nuts often found on marine batteries with nylock nuts, which are much less likely to come loose.

• If you use the boat infrequently, use a maintenance-type battery charger to keep the battery fully charged between outings.

• Before off-season storage completely charge the batteries then disconnect the terminals so nothing can draw the battery down. If there’s power available at your storage site, keep the batteries on a battery maintainer/charger through the off-season to continually maintain your batteries. Otherwise remove the batteries

from the boat and store them where they can be connected to a maintenance charger.

• Install a cover or “boot” over the top of the positive battery terminal, if one was not installed by the boat builder, even if the battery is in a covered box. The boot prevents sparks and arcing and possible explosion if, for instance, a tool is dropped on the terminal.

Keep your batteries charged, keep the terminals clean, and get out in the boat and “exercise” your electrical system as often as you can!

• EWOF compliant

• Wide range of BMS options

• Internal cell balancing

• Built-in Bluetooth monitoring

• 100% usable capacity

• 10-year plus life expectancy

• 70% weight saving

• 70% less space

LITHIUM BATTERY MANAGEMENT AND CHARGING

Good quality Lithium-ion batteries are protected by built-in Battery Management Systems (BMS) that prevent over- or under-voltage, over-current, high-temperature or external short-circuiting during charging. Some lead-acid battery chargers will recharge lithium-ion batteries without issues. However, if your charger has a desulphation stage (Generally stage 1) The Lithium Battery can be damaged and that charger should not be used.

Even though AGM and GEL charge profiles typically fall within the voltage limits of a lithium iron phosphate battery, that does not mean it is OK. Check for that Desulphation mode. There are numerous chargers now designed specifically for lithium-ion batteries. A 20-amp charger will recharge 100-amp 12-volt lithium in about five ~ six hours. Lithium batteries can be discharged at very high rates, they also be energised also very quickly, this can mean running the generator harder for a shorter time, which is good for those onboard (shortly run time), the generator & the fuel bill.

The recommendation is to get the right chargers on board to protect and get the best performance and life from your investment, this goes beyond the AC charger but also regulators on the alternators & solar.

While lithium-ion batteries have traditionally been more expensive to start with, their cost amortized over the life span is considerably lower than the cost of conventional batteries. Prices have come down as more and more competitors enter the marketplace. With a large bank of high output lithium-ion batteries, it’s now possible for some boats to offer air-conditioning, cooking and heat in the “house” without relying on a generator except for very brief periods daily.

While the initial investment is slightly higher, the savings in generator fuel over the eight- to 10-year life span of the lithium-ion batteries can more than make up for their cost, to say nothing of the huge advantage of rarely having to run a noisy, fume-producing generator—in the case of boats with increasingly efficient solar and wind generators, no gas or diesel generator may be needed.

'The recommendation is to get the right chargers on board to protect and get the best performance and life from your investment.'

The MLI series delivers extreme Lithium-Ion performance even under the harshest conditions by combining our best Lithium-Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) cells with a proprietary Battery Management System (BMS) inside a sturdy housing.

Digital Gauge Remote

Propeller Control Cables

Fitting