Cruise With Confidence

With Confidence

With more boats out on the water these special times, we are seeing more people wanting to learn more about their own boats and to be able to use them without the stress of having to learn from scratch (no pun intended). Thanks to training courses, such as the ones offered by KARLA DEL HERBERT-EVANS of Nautical Training & Marine Services, life with a boat has become much better and easier for many.

ALL IN THE FAMILY

"I can drive a race car at 240kmh. But even with loads of smaller vessel experience, I felt completely out of my depth with my big boat purchase," shares Chris Gilmore, owner of a Riviera M430. “It was very clear from my first docking experience that I needed to learn some new skills to become more confident with close quarter manoeuvring.” So, he booked three practical training sessions with Nautical Training & Marine Services: vessel handling, familiarisation, knots, springlines and hitches, docking, anchoring and bar crossing. “After my first session, Karla recommended I bring my crewman to learn the docking lines and practise the docking procedures with clear communication together,” says Chris. He invited his father-in-law, Lex Hopton, to join the sessions with Karla. “Lex is keen to be my wingman, know my boat and be able to confidently handle the lines to assist with docking and anchoring in the Broadwater and occasionally heading offshore.”

In the first two sessions, Chris learned the importance of understanding twin screw manoeuvring and to avoid overuse of the bow thruster. Their third session was forecast light westerly but increased upwards of 15 knots which presented a blow-off-dock scenario. Lex was keen to learn some bondage skills and knowledge of the use of spring lines, knots,

Margaret and Rodney Cornick complete basic training on their Whittley 2380.

and hitches. With a wicked westerly blowing them off the wharf, Lex was able to put his new springlines and docking skills to the test.

Co-owners Greg Lee and Robbie Whiteman successfully complete a full package training.

Chris Gilmore invited his father-in-law, Lex Hopton, to join the sessions with Karla. “HAPPY WIFE, HAPPY LIFE!”

So confirms Greg Lee. “After an initial docking failure, it was an easy decision for us to invest in some quality nautical training to ensure survival of our marriage, mateship, new investment and avoid anxious boating experiences.”

Greg shares that after he and Robbie Whiteman decided to step up from jet skis, the co-owners were quite nervous about handling their Riviera M370. The three owners, Greg and Robbie (aka Crockett and Tubs), and Greg’s wife, Tania, chose to start their Nautical Training with the

Greg and Robbie on their Riviera Cheney with his Cuddles 30 cruiser

Chris Gilmore (L) at the helm (R) docking his Riviera M430

Chart Plotting Navigation Course, knowing the importance of learning to navigate in main deep water channels.

They booked several practical vessel handling and docking sessions thereafter. They completed the full package training: offshore navigation, Broadwater navigation, vessel handling, familiarisation, knots, springlines and hitches, docking, anchoring and bar crossing.

The three gained the skills and knowledge to handle different approaches given prevailing conditions, and being able to use twin screw manoeuvring and understanding the use of springlines as the poor man’s bow thruster, if said thruster times out or fails.

Rodney learning about entry and exiting a lock MODERN AND CLASSIC CRUISERS

“We are new to boating and wanted to get a general understanding of how to operate a boat in order to give us the basics before we ventured out on our own,” explain Margaret and Rodney Cornick. They own a Whittley Cruiser 2380 Outboard, with hydraulic steering and electric winch, that is perfect for the weekend getaway.

Both of them received training on trip planning, manoeuvring the boat, docking, entering and exiting a lock, anchoring and navigating the Broadwater. They were able to overcome the challenges that the couple were facing, including getting the vessel on a plane, and being able to dock the boat with Margaret’s support. Rodney simply puts it at, “The training was educational for both myself and Margaret. The sessions were informative, and relaxed.”

While Margaret and Rodney enjoy their modern cruiser, Cheney and April Bromilow are happy to learn more about their Cuddles 30 Cruiser, navigating Jacobs Well, Southern Moreton Bay and Broadwater. “We certainly got our money’s worth. Karla was prompt, patient, hands-on, giving us clear instructions and much more. It was an optimum day of learning. Regardless of our boat's age and design, Karla tackled its operation with zest. At the end of the day, we were left feeling we could start our new adventures with confidence. Far from the nerves that began in the morning. Without doubt, additional training and professional advice enhance the boating experience whether you are a novice or a veteran boatie. Nautical Training offers advanced vessel handling and boat familiarisation to further your understanding of larger vessel operations, twin screw manoeuvring, and confidence building in navigational skills and knowledge of our busy waterways, and extended passage trip planning.

As the premiere trainer for various organisations, Nautical Training are an industry-recognised name in boat licensing, offering comprehensive one-on-one and group training and licensing services for clients on the Gold Coast, Brisbane and throughout Southeast Queensland. Instructor Karla Del Herbert-Evans can tailor the training specific to your level of experience with a theory and practical component for each session. www.nauticaltraining.com.au

Cheney and April Bromilow learn about their Cuddles 30 cruiser.

ARE YOU READY TO DISCOVER A JOMO?

The latest and most versatile small boat to hit the water!

There is a new boat in town that ticks all of the boxes. Are you ready to discover the latest and one of the most advanced small boats? Introducing the JOMO, an Australian designed, developed and made polyethylene boat that eliminates the anguish and irritation commonly associated with small boats. This really is the Joy Of Missing Out. LET’S TALK HULL DESIGN - Designed by a naval architect, the hull was created to be stable both at rest and on the move. Due to the hull’s shape, the JOMO planes comfortably and easily, even with only one person on board. The boat is roto-moulded using the latest materials and techniques. This creates a double skin that makes level flotation possible and provides a soft enjoyable ride. It is almost impossible to damage the hull due to its polyethylene structure, which is four times as strong as fibreglass. Dents and damage are a thing of the past. The hull is also manufactured as one piece, so there are no seams or welds that can break or bend. This was demonstrated during the JOMO drop tests for compliance to international standards. The boat was dropped from a 10 metre height onto a road and bounced with no structural damage. It was also dropped with half a tonne of weight and was still undamaged. Very little hull maintenance is required due to the sheer durability of the material. Not only is the hull tough, but it is also naturally buoyant, allowing the hull to remain above water even when completely filled with water. As a result of the hull’s buoyancy and strength, the JOMO hull has the world’s highest safety rating with level flotation that keeps the occupants “in” the boat even if it is swamped — something essential when there are predators in the water. WHAT ABOUT HANDLING & POWER? - The JOMO handles and turns smoothly, and is very stable and comfortable even through choppy, rough water. It tracks precisely at high and low speeds, making it easy for anyone to handle on the water. The balance, by design, is exceptional. The JOMO can plane quickly and easily due to the unique hull design. With the rear tabs, steering is smooth and precise even in choppy conditions. The JOMO is legally allowed to use up to a 20hp motor, unlike the majority of 3 metre boats with many limited to 5hp. It planes with a 6hp motor, making it ideal for young water enthusiasts. The aluminium reinforced transom is extremely solid, unlike many small boats which lack rigidity. The internal aluminium plate is bound by plastic and sandwiched together with an additional two aluminium plates to provide unparalleled rigidity. This is what allows a 20hp motor to be used with ease. ALL IMPORTANT SPECIFICATIONS - The JOMO is extremely versatile and can be modified for almost any use, from a tender to a fishing boat, it’s an all-rounder. It is rated to carry four people comfortably, unlike many other boats of its size, with a rated maximum load of 459kg. The JOMO comes with a five-year warranty for private use and one year for most commercial uses. The JOMO features a very ergonomic layout with comfortable seating, plenty of leg room and handles that are positioned to ensure easy reach by passengers when underway. The large cockpit has a solid, non-slip floor to ensure you always feel safe and stable. The gunwale is flat rather than round, providing a stable surface to step on when boarding or disembarking. There are also steps at the stern to assist with boarding from the water. Unlike many other boats, the JOMO will keep you and your belongings dry. The JOMO boasts a 1.5 metrewide beam with excellent freeboard for a dry safe ride. There are two large water-resistant compartments for dry storage and a wet storage area, allowing wet and dry items to be kept separate. Underfloor drainage keeps feet dry and self-draining bungs stop water entering, even if the plugs are forgotten. There is a side channel next to the rear seats that can be used to store fishing rods or oars out of the way. Six RailBlaza mounts and a CleatPort allow almost anything to be attached to the boat, from rod holders to navigation lights. These multipurpose fixtures make it simple and easy to attach anything without drilling through the hull, preventing unwanted water from entering. The CleatPort is mounted next to the anchor locker, to ensure the safe storage of, and easy access to, the anchor. The JOMO has various optional extras to suit the needs of boating enthusiasts including a side console to enable forward steering and a bimini to protect occupants from the sun. In fact, almost anything can be added including snap davits or lifting eyes to suit most davit systems. The JOMO comes in a variety of standard colours, with custom colours available for those who desire a unique JOMO experience. Custom options are also available for the floor surface, including marine carpet and EVA foam. MULTIFUNCTIONAL - The JOMO can be used for numerous applications: a weekend runabout for the family; a safe boat for the kids; or as a tender to large vessels. Due to its high safety rating, the JOMO is also suitable for commercial and emergency purposes. Commercially, the JOMO can be used as a hire boat, as a tender to houseboats, for pontoon fabricators and for emergency services. In fact, for any commercial use where a strong safe and stable boat with low maintenance is required, the JOMO is the smart choice. A GREENER FUTURE - The JOMO can be fully recycled — a feature that is essential for a sustainable future. The life expectancy of the JOMO is over three times that of an inflatable boat, even if stored in the sun. This makes great use of our planet’s limited resources. Forget ever having to wax, polish or anti-foul the JOMO; all you need is a soft brush and some soapy water to keep the JOMO looking great. No more harsh chemicals that leach into the water, endangering our marine life. GET A JOMO TODAY - The JOMO is currently available at Me Tender in the Coomera marine precinct. A dealer network both in Australia and internationally is being established. For information about pricing or to become a dealer, give the team at JOMO boats a call on 1800 566 034 or visit www.jomoboats.com.au

BRIG QUEENSLAND turning heads whilst making waves

www.brigqld.com

BRIG boats are hand built and finished to very high standards with each stage recorded and quality checked for total accountability. The best materials are sourced from around the world and all of their boats meet or exceed ISO, EEC Standards. BRIG has challenged conventional design by applying new aero and hydrodynamic theory to traditional ideas. Brig Queensland has taken an already amazing product and applied their own flare to the vessels. Australian's love the water, so it's easy to see why Brig is not only Europe’s leading inflatable boat brand, they have taken over our backyard and are the number 1 leading 'Luxury Inflatable Boat' globally!

BRIG EAGLE 350 GT w/ HONDA 40HP

What's New:

$46,300

• Honda 40HP 4 Stroke • Diamond Stitching • 7inch Garmin Screen • Fusion Stereo with Back-Lit Signature Speakers • Concealed Side Mount Throttle • Underwater Lights • Structural Ski Mast with Rod Holders

BRIG EAGLE 4 GT w/ HONDA 60HP

What's New:

$57,400

• Honda 60HP 4 Stroke • Diamond Stitching • 10inch Garmin Screen • Fusion Premium Nightclub Entertainment Package • Concealed Side Mount Throttle • Underwater Lights • Structural Ski Mast with Rod Holders

BRIG EAGLE 6 GT w/ MERCURY 150HP

What's New:

$130,000

• Mercury 150HP Pro XS • Diamond Stitching • Sports TTop with 5 x Rocket Launcher • Custom Wakeboard Roof Racks Mounted on TTop • Rear Awning Kit with Carbon Fibre Support Arms • 30L Freezer Box • Deck and Underwater Lighting • Fusion Premium Nightclub Entertainment Package • PLUS MORE!

BRIG Eagle 350 Specifications:

Length Overall: 3.5m Width Overall: 1.78m Overall Height: 1.25m Boat Weight (net): 190kg Maximum Power: 40hp Design Category: C Fuel Tank Capacity: 33 litres No. of Persons: 4

BRIG Eagle 4 Specifications:

Length Overall: 4.00m Width Overall: 1.95m Overall Height: 1.25m Boat Weight (net): 250kg Maximum Power: 60hp Design Category: C Fuel Tank Capacity: 43 litres No. of Persons: 5

BRIG Eagle 6 Specifications:

Length Overall: 5.95m Width Overall: 2.40m Weight of empty boat: 550kg Max. power: 150hp Fuel Tank Capacity: 121 litres (built in) Freshwater tank capacity: 39 litres No. of Persons: 10 No. of Persons: 10

Great Products

FOR Boating

Your boating adventure starts here, with a selection of leading products to improve your time out on the water. Join the conversation on our social media channels and let us know about any of these products you’ve used. You can recommend a great product for us to review by contacting info@boatgoldcoast.com.au

SUZUKI - WORLD'S FIRST DRIVE BY WIRE 115HP/140HP 4-STROKE OUTBOARD

BUNGEE DOCK LINES

Eliminate the tug and pull of your docked boat caused by non-elasticised mooring lines. If your boat is moored on a busy waterway, in a marina with passing traffic or during a real storm, a bungee-style cord rope dock line will shock absorb. The elastic cord is hidden inside the rope and acts as a built-in buffer on dock cleats or with your anchor buddy. With Elastic cord inside the rope, it will reduce jerking and provides extended length for more convenience. They can improve security while your boat is docked. Suitable for boats, jet skis, kayak and floating pontoons. Suzuki Marine is globally recognised for making advanced technology and features available to boaters of all types - not just those who run the largest, highest-horsepower outboards. This tradition continues with the introduction of Suzuki's new-for-2021 DF115BG and DF140BG 4-stroke outboards, the first in their class to offer all the advantages of drive-by-wire technology.By bringing its proven drive-by-wire technology to its 115HP and 140HP in-line fourcylinder models, Suzuki is providing simplified rigging for a wide range of boat builders, along with silky smooth shifting, instant throttle response, enhanced performance and superior fuel efficiency. The reliability and precision control of Suzuki's drive-bywire technology has been proven for years on Suzuki's popular 150HP through 350HP models. www.marine.suzuki.com.au

KINGPIN JUMBO PEGS HANDY HELPER ON & OFF THE WATER

It’s only a peg, but it’s quite a story. Beginning in 2004 with a packet of Jumbo Pegs purchased as a novel boating accessory during travel in Asia, the founders of Kingpin Pegs were surprised at the attention it drew from Western Australian boaties aound Rottnest Island and the local yacht clubs. The attention gave birth to a business idea, with more products progressively added to the list over the years. Coming into the fold in 2014 was the Super Jumbo Peg, followed by the latest in clean green earth science – the Activated Bamboo Charcoal Eco Pack. These exclusive and original accessories continue to be of great use both indoors and outdoors – limited only by one’s imagination. Utilise the pegs wherever you could use a helping hand, whether it be hanging wet towels on the rails of your boat, pool fence or drying those rags from fishing. Super strong, these ripper grippers will serve you well – only hazard is losing them overboard. www.kingpinpegs.om.au

KINGPIN ECO PACKS A BREATH OF (ALL NATURAL) FRESH AIR

Hate the stale smell of your cabin from fishing or when returning after a long period? Worried about the moisture affecting your precious electronic gear? The science of Activated Bamboo Charcoal for soaking up smells and damp continues to amaze. Now you can discover for yourself the use of its already proven purifying power. Bamboo Charcoal Eco Packs from Australian importer Kingpin are a simple and safe method to remove unpleasant smells and moisture inside your boat, or car or home. Imagine never having to spray chemicals, use messy sachets or dispose of waste elements again! These decorative linen covered Eco Packs are refreshed monthly by simply placing them in the sun for an hour. The ultra violet rays disperse the absorbed residues and allergens, ready for continual re-use up to two years. Each Eco Pack (20cm or 15cm) can be moved from saloon to anchor locker or anywhere in between.www.kingpinteam.com

FUSION LITHIUM BATTERIES

One of the major features of the technology is that a lithium battery offers a greater depth of discharge, meaning the percentage of the capacity which has been removed from a fully charged battery. This is the most important consideration for maintaining battery health. Lithium batteries are around 60 per cent lighter than their AGM equivalents. And every owner knows what this means – a lighter boat performs better and is more efficient. Despite being lighter and smaller, their life expectancy is three to four times longer than an AGM. A top-of-the-line lithium marine battery has a life expectancy of five to eight years. Fusion Lithium batteries offer drop-in replacements for N70. N100, N150 AND N200 deep cycle and starting batteries, no special chargers required. SPECIAL 12v 100AH Fusion Lithium Only $795. (Mention this magazine editorial for a futher 5% discount). Marine RV Electronics Ph: 0413 351 772