THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE BOATING
RAND boats combine sleek Scandinavian craftsmanship and design with cutting-edge technology and sustainable principles unlike anyone else.
Through intensive research, innovation and real-world testing RAND are able to offer a truly viable and practical 100% electric solution across their entire range. RAND models are available from 18 to 30 feet.
Every RAND is constructed with materials developed from recycled plastic bottles, all wooden trim elements are obtained entirely from certified sustainable forests, and the luxurious ‘leather’ upholstery options are cruelty-free alternatives. Compared to similar mainstream boat manufacturing techniques, RAND uses only half of the material when producing boats.
Uniquely, for those not yet ready for the electric revolution RAND’s iconic design, style and advances in sustainable production can also be configured with the latest highly-efficient internal combustion engines.
New models arriving early 2023. Eyachts Eyachtseyachts_ 07 3004 7604 eyachts.com.au
EXCLUSIVE AU & NZ DEALER boats@eyachts.com.au
First time being listed to market for this immaculate Australian delivered 2010 Predator 84. One owner and professionally crew maintained. A recent $2 million mechanical and cosmetic refit means this stunning boat is ready for the summer season with nothing to spend. Powerful performance with twin 2400HP MTU ( only 1100 hours) while ensuring maximum passenger comfort with zero speed stabilisers. Available for immediate delivery.
Beautifully presented 2009 Flybridge Motor Yacht featuring gorgeous timber finishes and luxurious soft furnishings. “Blue Crystal” is an excellent entertainer with galley centrally located, open plan saloon, large rear deck below deck, and hardtop flybridge. Boasts 4 spacious cabins plus crew accommodation aft. An extensive inventory including late model Garmin electronics package. Powered by twin C32 1575hp Caterpillars allowing her to cruise with ease and a sprint of 30 knots.
2021 SUNSEEKER MANHATTAN 52.
An incredible opportunity to own an almost new Manhattan 52 with only 110 hours on her Volvo shaft driven diesels. The Manhattan 52 boasts the galley on the saloon deck opening onto the aft deck making it an ideal flow for entertaining, 3 cabins plus crew cabin. This stunning model featuring a high gloss walnut interior finish is highly optioned and includes gyro, watermaker, upgraded electronics & AV packages and more. Also includes remainder of new boat warranties. Turn key ready for her next owner heading into summer.
Hard to find dual station flybridge Maritimo. This 2010 model Maritimo Aegean 50 presents in very good condition. Powered by twin Volvo D12-800- 775 HP shaft drive engines. Spacious open plan saloon with the galley opening out through bifold doors to the aft deck, lower helm with internal staircase to the flybridge & 3 large staterooms. The extensive inventory includes an excellent electronics package, bow & stern thrusters, yacht controller, tender in tender garage, hydraulic swim platform and much more. Exclusive Agents.
This absolute turn-key ready vessel, maintained to the highest standard, offers outstanding performance with maximum passenger comfort. Featuring gorgeous satin walnut timber finishes and luxurious soft furnishings throughout. The saloon deck has a huge electric sunroof, downstairs a well-equipped galley, and 3 beautifully appointed cabins. The aft deck and hydraulic swim platform area is set up for entertaining and fun. Comprehensive inventory of quality options and extras, too many to list!
“Beyond Capricorn” is ready for her next adventure. Launched in 2011 with recent upgrades, built to Australian with high level of engineering systems and redundancy, with a range of approx 4000 miles @ 9.5knots the possibilities are boundless. Twin C18 600 CATS along with hull design and Naiad stabilization system the offshore performance and passenger comfort is outstanding. Space, luxury and comfort throughout with beautiful timber finishes and contemporary soft furnishings, easily accommodating up to 16 people.
t Boat Gold Coast, we endeavour to share stories of real people, and stories with a trace of history and a taste of lifestyle. In this edition, you will find a comprehensive guide to help prepare for the summer boating season. These pages are rich with resources to help you find the right boat, the right service provider for your boat, and checklists to ready your boat for
It is also the Christmas season, and the time for us to think of what to give our loved ones. We have some product listings inside that can be included in your shopping list. But, while the end of the year can sometimes be focused on consumerism, we encourage you to give the best present to your family and loved ones: time spent together.
On that note, I would like to take this opportunity to briefly share the story of my own family. Andy and I started planning this publication way back in late 2015, while raising our then 4-year-old son. Our first edition, a 60-page large format magazine, came out in February 2016. We engaged contributors who helped with different aspects of the publication: marketing, sales, graphic design, writing, photography. It was not an easy task. Over the years, we have stayed consistent and persistent. Now on our 30th edition, with our son contributing his own stories for publication, we appreciate the many changes and challenges we must negotiate. While we occasionally drift a little, our vision of a safe and fun boating lifestyle, that is also mindful of community needs and aspirations, always sees us back on course.
Aside from the magazine, our experiences are enhanced by involvement in community work. Our family comes from diverse backgrounds, as do many Australian families. Our passions are also diverse. We love food, and we love sharing food. We run a monthly community potluck project that was hosted by Bleach* Festival this year. We volunteer for a multi-disciplinary collaborative arts group that promotes and nurtures creative people from culturally diverse backgrounds. In previous editions, we have featured some of the artists, as part of our advocacy, to engage the community in improving awareness about our waterways through art.
It has been an amazing journey to see how the boating industry connects to the community, through interactions with the waterways, including marine conservation initiatives. In the past, Gold Coast Waterways Authority has supported arts projects held around Evandale Lake. This year’s Swell Festival is one example of how community art can break through a very industrial sector, showcasing artwork at The Boat Works for Industrial Swell. Indeed, many of the sculptures at this year’s festival were maritime and marine-related. We are also seeing new developments building public pontoons and jetties, allowing locals and visitors access to the diverse destinations on the Gold Coast.
As we continue to celebrate the city’s diversity, both in nature and in population, we need to promote community connections with the city’s waterways lifestyle. It is a privilege for our family to experience all these, and to contribute to the community and creative life within our city. We hope that you too will be inspired by the opportunities that the Gold Coast offers, from today and into the future.
Competitive Brands Pty. Ltd. Kancachian andy@boatgoldcoast.com.au Tenefrancia editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au Enquiries sales@boatgoldcoast.com.au
CONTRIBUTORS
Marcel Priest, Ian Anderson, serves as a second outdoor living room. This boat represents an incredible evolution, offering high versatility of unparalleled liveability.
GOLD COAST, distributed via 450+ participating local businesses, is Queensland’s most-read boating magazine with 18,000 printed per issue and 120,000+ Australia-wide readers annually. The magazine is also available in NSW via a further 70+ participating businesses, including marinas, yacht clubs, dealers, brokers and chandleries from Ballina to Sydney.
We are proud to launch the new OzWinch range of 316 stainless steel marine hand winches which are suited to both boat trailers and also pontoons. Featuring a heavy duty full stainless steel body and gearing - available in three capacities - 500kg to 1000kg. Single, dual and three speed models with various gear ratios for easy operation, suitable for hauling Jet Skis and boats of all sizes. All models include a 7.5mt webbing strap with stainless steel safety hook and a removable winch handle. Available from HES Winches Australia www.ozwinch.com.au 1300 946 242
A full-time professional commercial photographer on the Gold Coast for over 30 years shooting images, Brad started a career in photography from a desire to do something he loved everyday. “And then working out how to make money doing it,” he adds.
With a masters degree in Business Administration from Surrey University in Oxford, U.K, one of his projects kick-started the Gold Coast Convention Center. When he switched to a life of artistic expression, his first job as a photographer was for a private investigation company. “I then moved on to models, weddings, surfing, and wave art. I did an online photography course from the Photography Institute. I learned a lot by trial-and-terror.”
Although Brad is a specialist studio headshot photographer who has a passion in wave art and fine art, he has not shied away from commercial photography, including shooting boats and the boating lifestyle. “Boating photography came from shooting a lot of commercial buildings. One day, I received a phone call from an advertising agency in Sydney. They asked me if I thought I could do what I do in a commercial building shoot for a boating photoshoot. Of course I said yes, and then had to work out how to do it!” Indeed, this was Brad’s living version of Richard Branson’s words.
Brad was engaged to take photos of a 72ft Johnson that Yachtsmen International was selling for the owners. The photo was taken north of the Gold Coast near South Stradbroke Island. It was for marketing materials to be used to market the boat for sale by the brokers.
Although the day was chosen for the weather and the tides, the crew availability and other factors, the photoshoot session still entailed
some challenges. “Holding the camera steady on a smaller tinny and coordinating the speed of the target boat and positioning the models were some of the difficulties I encountered,” Brad shares. However, Brad knows that communication was key with the models and also with the captain to maintain a speed that would be steady enough for him to shoot. “I was communicating with the captain via phone, giving instructions like ‘Go faster.’ and ‘Slow down.’ My videographer was communicating with the models, with instructions like ‘Sit up’, ‘Lay down’, ‘Stand up’, ‘Look this way,’ ‘Point,’ etc.”
“I like that the image is clean and shows the craft at its best angle. The sky is blue and it very much shows the Gold Coast boat life.” - Brad Delaney
Brad points out some important aspects of on-water shoots. The usual challenges in these sessions involve movement and being able to stay steady. He adds, “Water, in particular, salt water is not your best friend, so keeping your camera dry is always a challenge. The weather along with the tides always play a part, but we also have to consider safety. Time and fuel were other considerations.”
Brad’s ultimate advice when working in on-water photoshoot sessions is simple, “Be patient and communicate effectively.” Obviously, Brad has not only worked out how to take on-water boating photos, but he has excelled in it too. That critical “Yes!” proved to be worth it.
Camera used: Nikon D610 a DSLR 1/400 sec at F8 - 42mm
Brad is the owner of The Headshot Guys, a Robina based business specialising in headshots and personal imagery for professional and personal media. www.theheadshotguys.com.au
“If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later!” - Richard BransonINTERVIEW BY ANDY KANCACHIAN Photo & Text by Brad K. Delaney
Available in Australia this summer, the Elaqua electric is the future of Personal Water Craft (PWC). The Elaqua has a intuitive onboard multifunction 15.5” touchscreen - digital dash, running Unreal Engine human-machine interface which enables you to select many functions and ride modes, also the ability to geo-fence the PWC to a restricted location. The Elaqua also connects to your smartphone allowing you to check status, monitoring, location and alarms.
Launch Mode: Full power and full speed are delivered in Launch Mode for experienced riders or for when you're the only one on the open water and you want to see what you can do. Cruise Mode: Activate cruise mode for when you are sightseeing and traveling to enjoy a smoother ride and increased battery life. Pristine Mode: For when you find yourself in an area crowded with people or wildlife, Pristine Mode reduces speed and engine noise so that you can move without disturbing your neighbours.
Extra electric features : 5G LTE, WIFI, Bluetooth, speakers with Spotify, anti-theft system, engine cut-off, 8 sensor and radar devices, geofencing and speed limiting, 3 cameras 1080p Ultra Bright safety system (optional). Apple "Find My", real time feedback to the service centre and dealer, and heaps more!
Next generation technology: can be charged on any J1772 charge port, battery life on 1 charge is 130kms, Charge times: Level 1: 20 hours Level 2: 2.5 hours Level 3: 26 minutes, top speed is 89kph at 5000RPM (without chip), dry weight is 308kg, capacity is 3 persons, horsepower is 175hp.
South East Finance are ready and waiting to approve your boat finance now. With a combined 30 years of experience in marine, automotive and finance industries, the team at South East Finance understand every aspect of the purchase process, from the search for that perfect boat to obtaining that right financing fast.
The aim is to provide exceptional service and fast approvals that will ensure a finance package that is tailored to your needs. It is the South East Finance team’s customer-focused attitude that sets them apart from the rest.
The team not only comprises finance gurus, they are also nuts about boats (and cars too!). So, if you want feedback and advice on the make, model or style of the boat you intend to buy, they can walk you through the pros and cons. This firsthand knowledge of the onwater realities of owning a boat is the reason why you can trust
South East Finance to assist with your decisionmaking, and your finance requirements.
They have a large range of lenders from major banks, finance companies, credit unions and non-conforming lenders. Securing your boat loan at the right rate is their priority. So, if you are looking for a low interest rate and quickest answer, they will meet your expectations. Even if you may not have the best credit history, they will still endeavour to secure the right loan for you.
Regardless of your income, you can expect South East Finance not to judge you or your decisions. They are respectful and helpful, and guarantee absolute confidentiality.
The team at South East Finance provide several specialised extra services on request. They can communicate with sellers on your behalf and
negotiate with your boat broker to get you the best deal, or simply just point you in the direction of a trusted and preferred boat supplier.
It is very easy to complete the application form. As soon as you submit an application, the team will call to discuss your loan requirements in more detail. You will be surprised at just how little income and documentation is required when applying for loan approval.
Call the friendly team today and book an obligation-free consultation regarding your loan requirements. Ph: (07) 3299 www.southeastfinance.com.au/apply-now/5553
Wyld About Boats work with select manufacturers and distributors to offer a range of family and fishing boats, as well as boating equipment in-store and online. The 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse showroom has a range of new and used boats, an in-house service department, and a watersports shop.
Wyld About Boats has one of the largest ranges of used and new vessels under the one roof, all serviced with warranty, and ready for immediate delivery. All serious buyers can take boats for a pre-arranged on-water test drive before purchasing.
For the active family who want to start their day catching fish and finish it with some exciting watersports, a fishand-ski boat lives up to its name. These boats have built-in conveniences fishing enthusiasts love, like rod holders, a trolling motor, and live wells, and can also
provide some great performance when it comes to towing for watersports.
When buying a boat, it is important to consider many things before making a final decision – from the number of people you are going to have in the boat on a regular basis, the water conditions in which you are most likely to use the boat, the budget you have allotted, to the running, maintenance and storage costs.
The fish-and-ski forward-steer runabouts are the perfect family boat, as they have the protection of the windscreen and foredeck, yet still have plenty of cockpit space to fish. Most are fitted with a removable rear lounge for times when the kids are not in the boat.
The bow rider is becoming the must-have all-round boat if you do more family boating, tubing or skiing, exploring or cruising with the odd fishing trip with mates. The drawback is it has an open bow and the rear cockpit is
shorter than that in a runabout. If fishing is more your style, then choose the runabout.
If you are heading offshore, your decision requires more thought. The team at Wyld About Boats recommend fibreglass cabin boats, which are popular in the southern parts of Australia, as they provide more shelter from the elements. As a family boat, the cabin space is easily fitted with camper covers and clears, which are perfect for overnight stays out on the water. A well-designed fibreglass boat will outperform most aluminium boats when comparing ride, comfort, quietness and stability.
Wyld About Boats offer a range of used boats of different colour, motor brand and accessories, which have all been serviced and come with a used-boat warranty.
Wyld About Boats Warehouse 18 Demand Ave, Arundel Qld.
Ph: (07) 5563 2223 wyldaboutboats.com.au
There’s something about catching a red fish that gets the adrenaline pumping - whether it be mangrove jacks, scarlet sea perch or paddle tail snapper, red bass, flame tail snapper or, the tastiest of the lot, the red emperor.
To the critics out there, I get you. All these fish, except the red bass, are awesome eating. But the red emperor is in a class of its own. For those wondering ‘What’s wrong with the red bass?’ the answer is a little thing called ciguatera. Most anglers who fish the tropics know to stay away from red bass to avoid ciguatera poisoning. The effects of ciguatera poisoning can last for a long time: hot feels cold, cold feels hot, aches and pains, fatigue - the list of traumatic pain and discomfort rolls on.
It does get confusing when you travel and fish throughout the Pacific Islands because the locals love to eat red bass. Still – it’s not for me.
Recently on our show ‘Step Outside with Paul Burt’, seen every day of the week on 7Mate, we aired a segment featuring the Red Emperor,
70 kilometres northeast of Rainbow Beach and about 40 kilometres east of Fraser Island.
Normally, for a trip like this, we would spend a couple of days chasing other species, and exploring the surrounds, to showcase to our viewers. But this trip was a little different. The original plan ‘went out the window’ when I was invited to chase this delicacy of the ocean with an old skipper mate of mine, Greg Pearce, from Double Island Point Fishing Charters.
Many moons ago I spent my time skippering charter boats off the Gold and Tweed Coasts, and Greg was a skipper for another charter company. Man could this guy fish! It was like he could smell fish on the bottom of the ocean in 120 metres of water. He was so good that even birds would follow him. So, fast forward 20 years, when the opportunity arose to fish with him again, there was no way I was going to let it pass.
Having some idea of weather, and clearly Greg did as well, I knew we had literally one day of
calm ocean, between a squeeze from a pressure trough that was passing over and another highpressure system moving through the far south. We knew that those conditions typically bring a southeast trade wind up the east coast and, with that, comes swell.
Greg wanted me and our camera crew to meet him at 4:30 am the next day, which was only 12 hours later. So, with a ‘kind of a plan’ in place, we had the car packed and left at midnight, from the Gold Coast, planning to arrive at Rainbow Beach at 4:15 am.
Fortunately, the showers and wind from the trough had passed, leaving fog and cool temperatures settling in behind it. When we made the turn off at Gympie, it seemed like we were driving through a thick bank of cloud, a good indication that the weather was going to be pretty bloody good!
We arrived at the marina nice and early, and it was still dark and still cold. The next part of the journey was going to take a couple of hours, first
Diver whiting also make for a great ‘red’ bait.steaming out through the notorious Wide Bay Bar, which is hell scary at night, let me assure you, then sailing for an hour and a half northeast, halfway up off the coast of Fraser Island.
Greg’s boat, to put it simply, is a weapon. It’s a boat to be proud of - a rig sent from the fishing gods to a fishing god - which made us feel super comfortable whilst travelling during those first couple of hours of darkness.
When we arrived at the spot, the lines, knots and rigs were tied, and bait had been de-frosted, the sounder lit up with pinnacles and drop offs, ledges and bait balls, and arches that depicted big fish down below.
Our gear consisted of 15-24 kilogram (or 30-50 pound) Shimano overhead and spin reel combos. All rods were 5’6”, reels spooled with 50lb braid, and the leader was 37-kilogram (or 80-pound) Black Magic tough trace. One set of ganged 8/0 in a pattern of 7766 Mustads tied to an 8-foot singlestrand paternoster leader, with a pound of lead on
the bottom, was all we needed. For the bait, we used a large whole squid. One that, if you didn’t catch a fish on, you’d take home to feed the family. The bait was huge, and we were here to catch huge fish!
Greg didn’t opt for the smaller rods - he walked out of his cabin with a nearly 8-foot rod, spooled with heavy braid and a heavy leader. He didn’t say too much except, “Give that a go”.
There was no time to waste as the bottom was passing by quickly due to the current. Like the weather, we only had a short period of time to work. Once the boat stopped, you instantly had to get the bait straight down to the fish, hopefully get their attention, then get the fish to bite, then hopefully hook them up, before winding up and driving the boat back over the grounds to do another drift.
The second drift saw Greg baiting up his hooks whilst driving back up over the reef. We stopped and the lines went straight over the side. Within what seemed like a few seconds, Greg’s rod arched over, bending halfway down to the reel
seat, drag trying to release line off the spool, and I remember his words of “They’re down there”.
With some handy tips from the maestro himself, we spent the next couple of hours catching fish after fish and, with the cameras rolling, we captured endless moments of seeing big red fish coming up from the depths. Some were sharked on the way up and others we literally couldn’t get off the bottom. By 5 pm we were done. We’d caught a variety of species and made our way back towards the notorious Wide Bay Bar, before crossing - again at night - and eventually reaching the marina at 7:30 pm.
Craig Pearce from Double Island Point Fishing Charters with two 10kg plus red emperors.
Double Island Point Fishing Charters
Watch Paul every weekend on 7Mate as they Step Outside. www. stepoutside.com.au
Paul Burt filming Step Outside TV show
Traditional in style, abundant in state of the art technology, Alaska Motor Yachts deliver a high level of sophistication for the discerning boat owner.
Alaska Motor Yachts are the pride of the Leigh-Smith Yachts team, a pride that each owner shares and takes with them long after the sales process. With every new Alaska the previous owners direct input with the Leigh-Smiths, further refines and evolves the future product. It’s this willingness to listen & learn from the end user that ensures the designs, performance and finishes in the Alaska Range continues to astonish buyers.
Natural ergonomic flow is the focus on each new design, from the moment you enter each vessel an Alaska Motor yacht will give you an uncluttered warm feeling of quality and superior boat building that enhances the liveability whist onboard. You will feel the thousands of man hours in every vessel as you pass through each carefully designed purposeful area of the boat.
DISCOVER ALASKA MOTOR YACHTS 44 - 47 - 49 - 55 - 59
Softened by carefully chosen premium fabrics that are hand stitched to lighten the feel combined with large panoramic windows bringing your secluded outdoor environment inside. Natural light and ventilation are always present in any Leigh-Smith design.
Whilst traditional in style, the Alaska Motor Yachts are abundant in technology. Cummins common rail diesel power plants, Onan ultra-quiet low revving Genets, bow & stern thrusters to make for easy docking, custom Sheridan bedding and Linen packages, LED TV’s and lighting throughout, Italian hardware, Raymarine integrated navigation packages are all standard inventory that offer a reliable, user friendly minimal maintenance package. This high level of specification, finish and willingness to remain traditional sees the excellent resale and high demand on the used boat market.
R obert and Natasha Schob had previously owned a small bowrider, sold it and bought a new Regal 22 foot bowrider! Deciding they needed to update their boat handling skills they engaged Karla HerbertEvans from Nautical Training & Marine Services, for their refresher vessel handling training and navigation.
Although they were not novices, the sessions still entailed comprehensive training with Karla. “The training was thorough, detailed and fun throughout the sessions. Karla was patient and very detailed with all her training and allowed us to take our time to become confident with all aspects of boat handling,” they explained.
While encountering some initial difficulties with docking the boat and manoeuvring the boat on the Broadwater, these were overcome with instruction and practice. Overall, the couple were all praises for Karla for making the training delightful and very educational.
“Our advanced training with Karla was absolutely outstanding. Karla’s professional and knowledgeable expertise makes everything relaxed and enjoyable. Our training covered so much that we hadn’t known or learned previously. We highly recommend Karla for anyone looking to ensure they feel confident and knowledgeable when taking out their boat.”
For Rob and Tash, the highlights were pretty simple. “Getting out onto the Broadwater and having a lot of laughs with Karla.” Sounds like they had fun updating their boating skills!
As a Boatsafe training provider since 2006, Karla has had the opportunity to offer comprehensive education to all new and experienced mariners, that give you the skills and knowledge to confidently undertake basic navigation, boat handling and understand the safety requirements and your responsibilities under the law. "As your professional trainer, I am happy to pass on my knowledge and, upon issue of your Certificate of Competency or Achievement Award, I look forward to shaking your hand and enjoying your smile as you head off to experience your own Nautical Adventures,” Karla explains.
For further education about your boating, Karla recommends Advanced Practicals and Offshore Navigation Courses. To book these courses or boat licence and jet ski licence training and assessment, as well as AMSA Exemption 38 course, contact Karla directly at karla@nauticaltraining.com.au Ph: 0412 550 570
Eyachts have always been at the forefront of the marine industry when it comes to selecting sustainable and innovative brands to represent. Extensive research, real-world experience and global industry knowledge form the foundation of our decisions when it comes to introducing new designs. The company was one of the first to import electric boats into Australia, and now they are introducing a boat brand that is doing so much more than any other on the market. As the renowned specialists of European dayboats, now the largest importer of this segment in Australia, the Danish-designed and engineered nextgeneration range of RAND electric powerboats is set to fit perfectly into the Eyachts portfolio.
Peter Hrones, Eyachts Managing Director, stated, “RAND Boats are the perfect match for the Eyachts portfolio. RAND fits perfectly between our Axopar, the original adventure boats, Pardo Yachts, our Italian entertainment dayboats and Greenline, our electric cruisers.”
RAND stands alone in the day boat segment with a unique approach of blending an idealist vision of the future with the versatile demands of the boating enthusiasts of today, with a range extending from stunning and uber-chic cafe day racers to overnight adventure boats and super-cool sociable runabouts.
Electric propulsion models can achieve speeds in excess of 40knots and with the latest in lithium battery technology, a range of 50km to 350km depending on your speed means that even the 100% Electric drive models can fit the lifestyle and needs of 90% of day-boaters.
RAND have also focussed on creating a style and design philosophy that defines the RAND boats as iconic products in their own right. It is the blend of inspiring Scandanavian design with technical developments, hydro-dynamic research and advances in modern manufacturing processes that grants the RAND boat its iconic status.
Every RAND is constructed with materials developed from recycled plastic bottles, and all wooden trim elements are obtained entirely from certified sustainable forests. Even the luxurious ‘leather’ upholstery options are, in fact, cruelty-free alternatives. When compared to similar mainstream boat production techniques, RAND Boats also use only half of the material when producing boats. With this sustainable build approach, even traditional
combustion engine versions have a vastly improved green footprint compared to their competitors.
The success of this philosophy is clear in the fact the RAND range already contains no fewer than 9 individual models spanning 18’ to 30’ with new designs either already tooled-up or well advanced on the drawing board. With 500+ boats currently being built every year and a new high-tech production facility exclusively owned by RAND coming soon, it is clear that what may have seemed a concept of the future is now very much here.
“It has never been a better time to buy a cool looking Europe designed & built dayboat with skyrocketing second-hand boat prices and the weak euro currency that the USA manufacturers cannot compete with today,” says Hrones.
Eyachts can get you on the water for just over $100K and has sales and service offices in most states in Australia, and a full in-house service department, VesselTec, staffed with professional electricians, and boat builders and knowledgeable superyacht skippers that can support all your service requirements during ownership.
With 40 smaller RAND boats already cruising Australia's waterways, Eyachts will introduce the first of the new range downunder. If you would like to be the first to see these incredible new models get in touch with the expert team at Eyachts
Discoverboat@eyachts.com.autherangeat
RB Marine Covers, GC Antifoul and Bullet boats form a unique all-inone boat service centre at Runaway Bay Marina. Conveniently located on the Broadwater, it’s the ideal place to refresh your boat with any minor fibreglass repairs, annual antifouling and repair or replacement of your boat's marine covers and upholstery.
ANTIFOUL BOTTOM PAINTING - The application of a special type of paint used on the bottom of boats is designed to protect from micro-organisms that can eat away at your boat hull and reduce the efficiency of your vessel. Boat antifoul will provide a protective layer between your boat and the marine life, which usually lasts between 12 and 18 months depending on your location. In high-flow tidal areas, boat antifouling will need to be done a little more regularly than in a slow-moving tidal area due to many more micro-organisms passing by and attaching to the boat. Gold Coast Antifouling is also an agent for Propspeed propeller antifoul, which can improve your boat’s performance and economy.
MARINE COVERS AND UPHOLSTERY - The marine environment is harsh, and good quality covers will protect your boat when you are out at sea, moored, on a trailer or even in a storage facility. As a reputable marine trimmer, they only use top-quality UV-stable canvases, such as Sunbrella or Weather-Max 80 with a lifetime PTFE thread brand like Profolin, Healius or Tenara. The machinist will sew reinforced edges, finishing with a waterproofing spray to ensure there are no leaks. The team are capable of repairing or replacing; biminis, camping covers, clears, zippers, midge screens, window shields, hatch covers or even a cover for the entire boat. They can also repair or replace indoor and outdoor upholstery and bedding, throughout the boat.
HULL POLISHING - The professionally trained team also specialises in boat detailing and cleaning. All detailing packages include washing the boat from the waterline, cleaning under hatches, and all grooves and tracks. They will remove salt, bird droppings, water stains and grime. They can then buff and polish the gelcoat using a proven method of hull restoration to bring back the shine, while ensuring a protective coating.
FIBREGLASS REPAIRS - The team are skilled fibreglass repairers, able to undertake minor repairs and major boat repairs. The company is able to repair, restore, and build just about anything with fibreglass, from hulls to custom fibreglass parts. This includes minor scrapes from dock damage, to rebuilding after a major accident, and the restoration of old but reliable hulls, transoms, floors and stringers, and they are also experienced with bow thruster installation. With spray-painters on hand, the right paint work can be applied, so your boat will look good again with new gelcoat.
The team members pride themselves on delivering fast and extremely professional service from quality tradesmen, taking care of all your boat maintenance needs. For a free estimate on all these services, call Paul Tuesley Ph: 0417 173 257
Introducing the new Integrity PLUS range which represents the next step in the evolution of tried and tested motor yacht design, with all the style, safety, comfort and reliability that are hallmarks of Integrity, and now with a whole new pace. The new Integrity SX PLUS range features the styling enhancements of the popular Integrity SX model with the addition of a higher cruising speed for those seeking greater performance. The all-new CE or Coastal Express features a new contemporary look and feel to appeal to a new generation of boating families. Both the SX PLUS and CE PLUS range maintain the core Integrity DNA of spacious entertainers’ zones, covered cockpit, side walkways for safe, easy access, and now, owners can opt for genuine higher speed cruising. If you’re looking for a perfect weekender or an adventurous long-range cruiser, and with a size to suit any boating lifestyle, you’re sure to find your fit with Integrity.
I nvincible Boat Company, the premium saltwater sport fishing and high-performance boat brand headquartered in Florida, has added to its lineup with the launch of the new 33’ Catamaran. The boat was introduced to customers at a booked-out three-day event in Miami, where an extra date had to be added due to the high demand for sea trials.
Australian Marine Centre (AMC) are the Southeast Queensland exclusive dealers for these awesome boats, and have a boat in stock ready for delivery. AMC launched the 33’ Catamaran at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, the first 33’ in Australia.
If you are in the market for a boat of this calibre in mono-hull or catamaran design, you will not be disappointed in the performance, finish and value of the Invincible 33’ Catamaran.
The team at Invincible felt the time was right to fill out its catamaran lineup to match its selection of monohulls. The Invincible’s current product portfolio includes nine semi-custom models ranging from 33’ (10m) to 46’ (14m) in both mono-hull and catamaran designs. With a raft of announcements expected in the coming months, the range will be further extended.
Ian Birdsall, VP International Business at Invincible Boats, says, “I’m in awe of the performance, ride and handling qualities of this boat. It has exceeded our expectations and everyone who joined us at the event clearly agreed. It is going to be very popular in international markets, particularly in Australia.”
Each Invincible catamaran model utilises the patented hybrid semi-asymmetrical multihull design created by Morrelli & Melvin exclusively for Invincible. Morrelli & Melvin are the leading authority in multihull designs, given their extensive involvement in the America’s Cup and Olympic competitions. Their decades of competitive experience and investment in computational fluid dynamics result in the trademark qualities of Invincible’s catamarans —boats that don’t lean outward in turns and can handle all conditions without the assistance of negative trim or ballast.
“A dedicated twin-outboard platform is something we’ve been excited to work on with Invincible for a while now,” Pete Melvin of Morrelli & Melvin said. “The versatility of the smaller platform with more storage space than your traditional monohull should prove to be popular for the customer looking to make the jump to a cat.”
Invincible first announced the new model in the Autumn of 2020 and interest was strong with orders being placed immediately. Following the launch event, the list in the already healthy order book has increased significantly, and interested parties are encouraged to get in touch to secure a slot on the 2022 build schedule. Birdsall adds, “The overall size of the 33’ opens up more options when choosing a home berth, plus lower purchase and operating costs. This boat is purpose-built for customers interested in big-cat performance in a smaller package.”
If you’d like to arrange an inspection please contact Rod Elliott at AMC BOATS Ph: (07) 3808-7333 sales@amcboats.com.au
Invincible Boat Company was founded in 2006. It is headquartered in South Florida where it has a purpose-built factory with showroom facilities and over 300 employees.
Australia's most experienced inflatable RIB designer, Dylan Lopez, has announced an exclusive Queensland distribution deal with Gemini Marine Boats.
Established in 1979, based in Cape Town, South Africa, Gemini Marine has designed and manufactured the most comprehensive range of RIBs and inflatable boats for many of the world’s rescue, military and patrol entities, and leisure markets for 40 years.
Gemini Boats QLD, headed by Lopez and located at Gold Coast City Marina, are equipped to customise boats for clients' specific needs, with the product knowledge to guide buyers through the decision process, and deliver high quality after sales support.
The Gemini boats offer resilience, reliability and durability in even the most extreme conditions. The rounded deep ‘V’ shaped Gemini hull offers great performance, comfort and excellent handling at top speeds, especially in heavy seas. They are built using the latest technology and techniques, ensuring quality and reliability.
All Gemini boats have been arduously tested on some of the most treacherous coastlines and sea conditions in the world. The Gemini Technical, Development and Quality Team work in partnership with clients on a wide variety of rescue, military and law enforcement projects. The Gemini client consultancy and progressive innovations ensure that they consistently meet the needs of customers to master the challenges of an ever-changing global market. by Dylan Lopez
The Gemini brand is most respected world-wide with a long list of users including NSW Water Police, Australian Defence Force, Australian Federal Police, Australian Special Emergency Services, Royal New Zealand Navy, United Nations, Singapore Special Forces, UK Ministry of Defence, Olympic Security, African Union, to name but a few.
Gemini Marine has the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System certification, assuring boat owners continuous quality management throughout the entire manufacturing production process.
To test drive a Gemini boat contact Dylan Lopez on Ph: 0424 487 dylan@gemini-marine-qld.com226
A nother wet season has come and gone, and this year’s season was a doozy. A number of tropical cyclones threatened boatowners in the north, particularly Tropical Cyclones Seth and Tiffany, and then in February much of South-East Queensland was affected by severe flooding. Inevitably, this has led to vessels becoming damaged, and in some cases lost – it might be many years before we next see one of Brisbane’s CityCats on the bottom of the river.
What went right, and what went wrong for boat operators this summer? And what can be learned for future seasons?
Information is key. Unless boat owners have access to the right information at the right time,
it is impossible to make good decisions about the safety and security of your vessel.
Access to the necessary information starts well before the storm season, though. Most popular boating areas in Queensland have an extreme weather event contingency plan established by Maritime Safety Queensland. It should be part of your annual maintenance process to review your local plan before the start of the extreme weather season. These plans will include important information such as the relevant emergency VHF channels and phone numbers.
Second, it should be a routine part of your day during the extreme weather season to check in with the Bureau of Meteorology website to identify watches and warnings which may affect the safety of your boat. Don’t wait to learn about these things in the media or on Facebook! Often the BOM has been tracking a weather system for some time before the general media takes notice.
Third, ensure that you know how to access the Harbourmaster’s Directions or any similar instructions from the government agencies regulating your local waters. It’s crucial that you comply with any restrictions on boating activity in the leadup to an extreme weather event, during the event itself, or during the recovery after the event.
Preparation and planning is the key to all safe boating. Surviving extreme weather events is no different. There is a range of things you can think about ahead of time:
● Have you updated your contact information with Maritime Safety Queensland?
● Have you reviewed your mooring arrangements to ensure that your vessel is securely moored and has the best chance of surviving a weather event?
● Have you removed all unnecessary equipment (including things like furled sails, biminis, dinghies, fishing gear, and anything else that might tear loose and become a hazard)?
By Dr. Anthony Marinac, Solicitor Advocate and Director
● Have you checked watertight issues? Are your bilges operating, and have you pumped them out prior to the season? Is deck water escaping through the freeing ports or other self-draining holes freely?
If you’re going away, there are additional important steps to take. Ensure that someone who is not going away, and who is sufficiently licenced to operate your vessel, has agreed to monitor the vessel in your absence. Continue to monitor your information sources and communicate with that person as necessary. And most importantly, ensure that your local VMR, Harbourmaster’s Office or Marina Manager knows about your absence and has the contact details for you and for whoever is watching the boat for you
Far too often, boat owners who have inadequate insurance only find out that it’s inadequate when they need to make a claim. Typically, boat owners will obtain insurance when they obtain the boat, but will then leave their insurance policy on “set and forget”,
means you have to inform the insurer, and keep them informed, about things that may affect their risks of insuring you. For instance:
● Have you spoken to your insurer or broker every time you have added a new major piece of equipment to the vessel? If not, it may not be covered!
● Have you kept up to date with maintenance of the hull, engines, and rigging? If not, they may not be covered!
● Have you changed the vessel’s mooring or storage arrangements? If not – you guessed it – they may not be covered.
Most importantly of all, if you have started using your recreational vessel for any commercial purpose, your recreational policy may well be meaningless. You may not be covered at all!
If the worst does happen and you need to make a claim, remember that duty of utmost good faith. Here’s your plan of attack:
● Do everything you can to ensure the safety of life, the safety of your vessel, and the safety of other people’s property.
● Complete your insurance company’s claim form in as much detail as possible, remembering that you have to tell them everything – including things that might potentially count against you.
● Discuss with the company whether, and when, to commence repairs or replacement.
Making an insurance claim can be a massively stressful experience – even if the insurer accepts the claim and ultimately covers the costs. Pacific Maritime Lawyers are experienced at representing boat owners who are making insurance claims. You don’t need to be in a dispute with the insurer. In fact, getting us involved might prevent a dispute from arising in the first place.
Stay safe out there! We hope you won’t need us, but if you do, call Pacific Maritime Lawyers on 1300 797 627 or email us info@pacificmaritimelawyers.com.auat
•Do you need help with risk assessments, audits, regulatory compliance and licensing and registration advice?
•Do you need marine incident & pollution support?
•Are you facing maritime commercial or crewing disputes?
Photo courtesy of Facebook Page - Brisbane River Boats
It should be a routine part of your day during the extreme weather season to check in with the Bureau of Meteorology website to identify watches and warnings which may affect the safety of your boat. Don’t wait to learn about these things in the media.
The feature that surprises and excites most people when they first encounter the Jomo is the console. It is the perfect pairing for those who seek a pleasurable boating experience where leisure is top priority. Regardless of your nautical skills, the Jomo with console allows anyone to operate the boat—from an experienced angler all the way to a novice boatie. It is exceptional for those long trips to and from your favourite boating spots, or in any situation where comfort is crucial. For even more comfort, padded swivel seats, a bimini and a boarding ladder can be added to form the ultimate leisure package.
For those who seek adventure over leisure, the Jomo 300 with console is still your best bet. Described as a go-kart on water, the Jomo 300 with console performs spectacularly, especially when paired with a 20hp motor. Remain steadfast at speed on smooth calm water, or easily navigate choppy waters with precision. It is perfect for solo boaties who enjoy travelling at speed, or for those all-day adventures with mates. For those looking to push their Jomo to the limits, a hydrofoil can be fitted—which provides increased lift, quicker planing, and greater speed—for the ultimate performance package.
The major drawback of most other consoles is the amount of wasted space. These bulky consoles are subsequently a potential interference and often restrict the usability of the boat. The Jomo console was designed to be as slimline and sleek as possible to minimise its interior footprint whilst remaining rigid
and sturdy. Its low profile enables passengers to freely move about the boat, while the open design provides ample leg room for those at the helm.
For the fishermen out there, the Jomo 300 can readily be transformed into the ideal small fishing craft. Designed to take a variety of fishing accessories; including rod storage, bait board, tackle caddy and more; the Jomo 300 can be customised to suit your level and style of fishing. To assist while out chasing fish, a sounder and transducer can be fitted directly to the hull without modifications. For those more serious fishermen, a trolling motor can easily be attached using the Jomo mounting plate, so you can focus on what’s important — catching fish!
The numerous Railblaza Starports, located around the gunnel of the boat, provide the foundation to build and customise the Jomo to suit almost any purpose. The versatile and easyto-use Starport enables accessories to be added and removed at a pinch, without the need to modify the hull. Additional ports can be added to the console, suitable for cup and phone holders; or can be added via a gunnel track, which allows the ports to be repositioned as necessary.
For those who use their boat during the day, the removable bimini is a great choice. By using the Railblaza Starports, the bimini can easily be attached or removed within minutes, allowing the boat to be readily customised to suit your journey. For those who use their boat at night,
navigation lights are a must-have. The Railblaza navigation lights used on the Jomo require no wiring, saving you the hassle and expense of modifying the electrics.
The entire range of accessories offered by Railblaza can easily be added directly to the boat, or they can be combined with additional Railblaza accessories in an almost infinite number of combinations. Mix and match components to create your ideal accessory. If there isn’t an accessory to suit your need, the Starport adaptor can be utilised to convert anything into a Railblaza accessory.Whatever you want to do, make it happen with a Jomo!
To find out more, visit www.JomoBoats.com.au, or come see us at MeTender Boats at the Coomera Marine Precinct.
JOMO WILL PLANE WITH A 6HP OUTBOARD
SUITABLE FOR RECREATIONAL, COMMERCIAL & EMERGENCY PURPOSES
SIDE CONSOLE ADDS TO VERSATILITY
WELL BALANCED AND UNSINKABLE
CleanAWORX Wash & Wax contains a readily biodegradable polymer additive, which provides improved gloss retention on Gelcoat and paintwork. Cleanaworx Wash & Wax offers streak free cleaning and high beading characteristics to assist in water removal and spotless drying. Continued use of the product may result in ADDED protection faster dirt and grime removal and reduce the time it takes to wash a boat. Suitable for SNOW FOAM GUN APPLICATION. REMOVES SALT DEPOSITS. CORROSION PROTECTION. BIODEGRADABLE. Suitable for all: boats , yachts, jet skis, Trailers and MORE! Available in 1lt, 5lt, 20lt sizes.
CleanAWORX Clears Cleaner + UV Protection is specially formulated to clean and protect vinyl clears. CleanAWORX Clears Cleaner + UV Protection contains special UV + inhibitors to significantly extend the useful life of Clears, Providing UV Sun-Protection reducing the harmful effects of sunlight. CLEARER VIEW.
Stainless Steel Metal Polish with long life Wax protect. Unique blend of super fine polishing alumina with added long life wax protection Will polish stainless steel, aluminium, anodised aluminium, copper, bronze up to a high gloss shine with added long life wax protection. The wax protection improves the high gloss shine and creates a barrier reducing corrosion, oxidisation and tea staining from recurring.
Rust-Off Gel, Advanced Power Formulation GEL, helps to remove and Convert rust, rust staining, rust tea staining, calcium staining, lime scale staining, iron ore staining, oxidisation, brown mineral staining. Using a Gel helps to prevent runs onto other surfaces. Brush on, allow soak time, wash rinse Off.
SealAKOTE SEAL- IT. High performance long life high gloss liquid sealer wax polish. New advanced formulation blend of Carnauba wax, polymers, siloxanes, PTFE, PDMS, UV + Blockers. Provides high performance High Gloss shine and protection that will last against the harsh Australian environment weather conditions acid rain, uv radiation, droppings, bugs, dirt, grime, Salt, Plus MORE! WAX ON WAX OFF!
Interior trim Protectant. Protects interior trim, vinyl, leather, plastic, rubber, painted surfaces, furnishings, helm, dash, and more! Cleans and protects. UV protection, anti static, non oily.
With the new FJORD 41 XL, powerboat brand FJORD presents a yacht of superlatives and a completely new layout concept. The customer becomes the chief designer of their own yacht thanks to a unique modular configuration on deck and a variable interior design.
A new hull was developed to implement this groundbreaking concept, featuring the world‘s largest T-top. In addition to outstanding sun protection, this creates the space for a top-class interior and deck design. With a total of 90 possible combinations on deck, the FJORD 41 XL can be adapted to the customer‘s individual wishes. Whether a minimalist, tidy deck, a lounging area with designer furniture, a huge sunbathing space or a fully
equipped galley - everything is possible and can be freely combined. Up to four driving seats, free-standing armchairs and chaise longues, plus a large sunbathing area on the foredeck round off this made-to-measure lifestyle on the water. A further visual highlight is the ergonomic glass-bridge helm station, which is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for a sharp look and maximum usability.
The new FJORD 41 XL - a yacht of superlatives (up to 880 HP and a max. speed 38 KN) was designed in collaboration with top yacht designers Patrick Banfield (exterior) and Frank Darnet (interior).
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With the newly developed 3D confi gurator on the FJORD website (fj ordboats.com) you can explore and customise all the options on deck.
With the newly developed 3D confi gurator on the FJORD website (fj ordboats.com) you can explore and customise all the options on deck.
With a total of 90 possible combinations, the 41 XL can be adapted to your individual wishes. Whether a minimalist, tidy deck, a lounging area with designer furniture, a huge sunbathing area or a fully equipped galley - everything is possible and can be freely combined.
With a total of 90 possible combinations, the 41 XL can be adapted to your individual wishes. Whether a minimalist, tidy deck, a lounging area with designer furniture, a huge sunbathing area or a fully equipped galley - everything is possible and can be freely combined.
Various
Various interior
VISIT US ON THE MARINA AT SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW
AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING IN SYDNEY FROM END OF OCTOBER 2022
VISIT US ON THE MARINA AT SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW
www.teamwindcraft.com / www.fjordboats.com 02 9979 1709 | 07 2111 4044 / sales@windcraftyachts.com
www.teamwindcraft.com / www.fjordboats.com 02 9979 1709 | 07 2111 4044 / sales@windcraftyachts.com
There’s a timeless charm found within the L Line boats, a blending of superb craftmanship, rugged build quality and premium finishes that are familiar, yet distinctly a cutabove. Nothing beats time on the water with family and friends so make every minute count with Bennington. The L Line includes pontoon boat models from 19'-26'.
Offering luxury and sophistication, and customisable to make it yours, Bennington pontoon boats are available in a range of floor plans with many possible configurations, so you can choose the layout that fits you best.
Beneath the color-matched Simtex™ soft-touch vinyl of our premium furniture, you’ll find old-world craftsmanship and modern materials for comfort, durability and style unlike any other.
When you step up to the L Line of boats from Bennington, you're automatically enrolled into a premium features club: extras like the voyager helm with locking glove box and 12V and USB
charging station, vinyl wrapped bench bases and larger, bolder side Bennington emblems.
Entertaining your family or friends is made easier with a standard bow-integrated beverage cooler found within every Bennington L Line floorplan.
Premium sound and premium style go hand-inhand with the L Line pontoons, Kicker speakers provide rich audio, and integrated LED lighting accentuates the experience. Upgrades are found throughout the boats including a custom stainless steel steering wheel featuring highly-detailed engraved Bennington logos.
One of the most popular floor plans, the Quad Bench configuration maximizes storage, seating capacity, and lounge space. Many floor plans feature a sleek Fastback stern with speakers that extend your entertainment space. Another configuration is the Swingback, an innovative
jared@cobaltqld.com.au LUXURY
floor plan that enables dual seating capabilities by allowing users to face forward or backward depending on the position of the furniture back.
Originally pioneered by Bennington, the Stern Lounge floor plan offers twin lounge seats for the ultimate in comfort while offering a vista view from the aft. Entertainment floor plans come in two different styles including bars and dinettes, all of which come with accent lighting and other galley options.
Whether you are looking for a family-friendly boat for the occasional fishing outing or a full-time fisherman there is a floor plan for you. Every floor plan includes bass seats, livewells, rod holders, with options to fit your specific needs.
To find out more about Bennington L Line of boats, contact Jared Lees at Bennington Pontoon Boats of QLD Ph: 0406 332 830.
Fitted with Kicker marine audio systems
Ideal as a family day boat and for watersports
Many seating configuration options
W ith 40 years upholstery experience, Michel (Michelangelo) Melfi is highly regarded in the marine, commercial, film and television industries for offering a diverse range of custom upholstery manufacturing. Everything from interiors, lounges and helm chairs are sold within Australia and exported to Canada, New Zealand and the United States. During these four decades and with a lot of devotion, Michel has built a reputation based on offering the highest quality craftsmanship.
Some might say that Michel is at the pinnacle of his career but I’m sure he would disagree. Here we have a man, a true creative with an insatiable curiosity who loves to pull things apart to understand how they work and then put them back together in a new and improved way. His inquisitive nature means there are always new discoveries which in turn means the way he does things is always evolving. ‘I am constantly researching and growing ideas,’says Michel. To research a problem for one customer can often refine a whole process.
Melfi Designs are a dedicated team of five, which are more like extended family, each with their own special niche. Forget production line in this business. No two products are ever the same. Everything is customized to suit the customer. Whether you are ordering a brand new custom made helm chair or restoring a 100-yearold chaise, your project receives complete attention from beginning to end. ‘It’s much more than throwing some foam cushions together,’ jokes Michel.
His passion is undisguisable as he handles a piece of leather and talks about its origin and the process it will undergo onsite before he molds it into a stylish custom-made piece. The attention to detail is beyond expectations from the perfect stitching and embroidery to the inner mechanisms of the product –the combination of foam, springs and runners. Michel is not just creating custom chairs, he is creating a quality of life for his buyer.
Remembering back to when he started out, Michel tells the story of his 16-year-old self living in Abbotsford, Sydney above an upholstery shop. Enticed by the idea of making some extra cash, Michel would make buttons
for the upholsterer. It wasn’t long before he actually fell in love with the art. ‘I was intrigued that you can take certain materials and create something special.’
Michel has advanced from button maker to upholsterer on 18 films and television shows, his latest gig being Baz Luhrmann’s blockbuster, ELVIS. Michel’s work also features in other famous movies including THOR, Pirates of the Caribbean and Aqua Man.
Michel is proud to acknowledge being the recipient of the Best Marine Upholstery Manufacturing Award Queensland in 2021 and 2022. He says it’s not so much about the award but more about being recognised for the hard work you do.
Despite his success, Michel is a humble gentleman who would love to see more young people involved in the art of upholstery. The demand for high quality custom made products is there, as not everyone wants mass produced items. For someone with a creative, inquisitive mind and willing to work hard, the world is their oyster in this game.
www.mmelfidesigns.com
P royacht is a group of passionate individuals from various specialties and backgrounds who have collaborated to create an exceptional team of marine professionals, ideally located in the heart of all the action. With such a broad range of in-house skills, this dynamic company is able to offer a diverse range of tailor-made refit and repair services to the boating industry.
The future is crystal clear for this boutique, highly energized business, and with the recent completion of a unique and complex re-fit on a classic 1971 FeadShip superyacht, Proyacht’s energetic crew is ready for the next big challenge. Constantly growing and ever-evolving, the boat building and marine industry is a fast-moving environment. As a respected name, Proyacht certainly has the depth of expertise to embrace these exciting dynamics.
Steve Dittmar, the Director of Proyacht, is a man with salt running through his veins. He has skippered boats all over the world and began offering maintenance & management services as his expertise and reputation grew. Here at his Boat Works premises, Steve has cemented his presence by taking on bigger and bigger projects, constantly punching above his weight and making the industry sit up and take notice.
With numerous substantial refit projects now under its belt, Proyacht is constantly supercharging its skill set to take full advantage of every opportunity that presents itself. In a nutshell, that's exactly who they are.
( Pictured: The 1971 FeadShip recently completed. A six month project, involving extensive work across all specialised marine trades. A beautiful result, she’s now sailing around the Whitsundays.)
By Tanya Rabe
A sentimental refit project was recently and miraculously swiftly undertaken at The Boat Works, overseen by General Manager Shane Subichin, and carried out by the on-site marine professionals and trades.
The “big little job” that took the team long hours over two and a half weeks involved restoring an original Pride 65 Starfire GT to its 1960s glory, in time for the memorial service to the brand’s founder, John Longhurst, a marine industry and theme park pioneer.
Marine trades and services were rallied together from The Boat Works eager to contribute, working long hours and engaging more trades to make it happen.
“It meant so much to all of us,” Shane shares. “We all wanted to show our respect for John and the Longhurst family. Despite being absolutely booked out for many weeks, some trades for months ahead, they all bent over backwards to get the job done.”
The first step was researching every facet of the boat. Shane spent hours upon hours delving into the cache of pamphlets John had produced to promote the model and the Pride range.
“John was way ahead of his time,” observes Shane. “The Pride brochures capture the family fun and enjoyment of the on-water lifestyle. The slogan was ‘Turn Leisure into Pleasure with a Pride’, and showed people water skiing, fishing, and enjoying time with family. The broad range of boats and their quality construction is testament to the vision and skill John brought to every endeavour. Given the tight time frame, it was nerve-wracking considering we had to order the components, organise materials and trades, and bring it back to life in just over two weeks.”
Under the project management of the team at Ocean Degree Yacht Service, the marine trades assembled for the job included: Spraytech Marine, which completed the respray paint works, and replicated the traditional red colour and strip effects; Gold Coast Electroplating, chroming all original parts; Moreton Bay Boat Works for the finishing, internal fairing and flowcoat; Choice Stainless undertook the various stainless works required; Melfi Designs, whose director, Michelangelo worked his magic on the custom seats, sideboards and pelmets using the traditional skills of piping to recreate the original upholstery designs from the era; Marine Trade Supplies provided the paint along with the consumables; Print Image Signs undertook the timber dash finish and decals; and, Ocean Degree Yacht Services carried out the fitting of various parts throughout the project.
Levi Duncan, director at Ocean Degree, coordinated the reconstruction process and undertook the fit-out of
components consisting of new dash wheels, steering system and detailing. “I put my hand up straight away,” says Levi of his involvement. “I’ve known the Longhurst family for decades and looked after John’s boats over the years. He’d be touched, absolutely! It meant something to me personally as well because of its value in the history of Australian boating.”
Michelangelo Melfi, director at Melfi Designs describes the restoration project as “a real buzz”. “Restoration jobs are always fun,” he says. “You have a clean slate and it’s very creative. But on this project, the only reference I had to go on was a picture from a magazine.It required every skill in our tool kit. My background is in custom manufacturing furniture. For the past 20 years, I’ve been working with boats. The Pride 65 was well before my time, so it was an awesome project to work on. It was a small boat, but took all our skills, from frame sizing, building the seats from scratch, foaming up, cutting, sewing. We had to laminate the vinyl fabric, stick it together – all by hand.
The results speak for themselves and stand as testament to the collaboration and talent at The Boat Works and within the Coomera Marine precinct. “It looks fantastic!” exclaims Tony Longhurst, owner of The Boat Works. “We thought it would be a decent tidy-up, but it’s honestly just like new –mint condition!”
Tony recalls his father being very hands on at every stage of production, from concepts to marketing. “Dad had a second factory he called ‘007’, where they worked on new designs, made mockups out of balsa and developed all the innovations. He was involved in the design, drawings, the models, right through production. The only thing I regret is that we didn’t do it sooner, before he passed. We let life and work occupy all our time, and sometimes we’re reminded that there are more important things.”
Now in all her ruby-red glory at The Boat Works’ motor museum Garage 25, the finishing touch will be the installation of the genuine 1965 115hp Mercury engine, which is on its way from the US.
“This little boat will never go back in the water,” Tony adds. “Even though it would still cut it up and turn heads, she’s going to live on a pedestal in Garage 25 where she can be admired by everybody.”
Among the historic, vintage and unique vehicles, John Longhurst’s Pride 65 shines as a beacon to his ingenuity and an important chapter in his legacy as a founding force in Queensland tourism.
More at www.theboatworks.com.au
Michaelangelo Melfi admires his upholstery work Tony Longhurst, owner of The Boat Works in the Pride 65 Starfire The restored boat is on show at Garage 25, The Boat Works The t eam of trades from The Boat Works (L to R) Zac Cowan- Spraytech Marine, Mick Chaplin, Adam Howard and Gavin Lotte - Ocean Degree Yacht Services, Michelangelo Melfi - Melfi Design, Shane Subichin - The Boat Works, and Troy Enoka - Print Image Signs Complete with 1965 MERCURY
Whittley has introduced outboard to its Sea Legend (SL) range. The most affordable of the models is the SL20 OB Coast Tourer with its distinct 2-tone blue sporty hull, making the boat a real head turner.
At 6.2 metres in length, it is not just a “blood and guts” capable fishing boat, it is also a good size family boat that offers everyone onboard sufficient cover from the sun, wind and rain. This boat will get you way offshore in good time, and back home safely even if you are exposed to harsh water conditions. The hull design allows for powerful manoeuvring in this large-volume small boat. It is a super strong, yet a very quiet boat – there is no banging or clanging, because most of the features inside the boat are part of the hull mould. There are no side panels that are screwed in like the cheaper boats in this class.
It is a good-looking and well-equipped boat. Whittley has an impressive high level of fitout, with most options supplied as standard. For example, the bimini and clears are supplied with the new package, so it makes for yearround comfortable boating in our local waters.
The cabin has walk-around side decks to the bow, and the cockpit has non-slip rubber seadeck floors and gunwales making it easily washable with a garden hose and also dries quickly. With a stainless steel boarding ladder, kids will not have a problem getting back into the boat after a swim.
The SL20 has great fishability. Its cockpit is big enough for 3 to 4 anglers. Fishing is part of the Whittley DNA, so for the fishers, there are 6 rod holders on the stainless steel targa, and a cutting board accessible from both sides. The storage in this boat is really maximised. Rods can be stored along the sides of the cockpit. There is a unique side pocket storage for your fishing tackle. There is also a live bait tank on the transom and the high gunwales mean there is good freeboard to lean up against while reeling in your catch.
The standard boat includes a flush mount Garmin fishfinder and chart plotter that looks great on the black
colour dash. A handy feature is the flat surfaces on the dash to place your personal belongings. The gauges are positioned neatly and all the dash cabling is accessible via a maintenance hatch. You can also upgrade the helm with a neatly fitted remote control for the anchor winch.
For serviceability, the standard dual batteries, isolation switch, cabling, and plumbing are accessible via a cupboard door on the transom.
The large v-berth cabin is fully lined and the bunks are 1.8m long and come with fill cushions to make a bed. There is also a table that converts the space into a well-sheltered dining area. The cabin is open style,but there is a vinyl screen that closes off the area if you want privacy. Below the bow cushion is an easy lift hatch that unveils the Porta Potti. You can access the bow via the cabin hatch.
Below the plush driver and passenger seats are eskies that double as cushioned passenger seats. The stainless steel grab rail running around the seating areas ensures your stability in rough conditions. The bimini has been designed to ensure full head height.
There is a large holding tank accessible by an easy opening lid at the rear of the cockpit that can be used to keep the fish you catch or as a storage area or cooler.
The package comes standard with hydraulic steering and can be fitted with 130hp or 150hp motors. This is 4-stroke boating at its best – just launch the boat, turn the key and you are away boating. Mercury reliability and warranty means peace of mind and confidence out on the water.
The SL20 O/B is very economical. With a 130hp you can cruise along at about 2km per litre just under 4000rpm. And if you need to get there fast, the boat will travel at up to 33knots or just over 60km per hour. A 210L fuel tank gives you the range for anything you have in mind.
The boat will run nice and flat as it uses self-leveling trim tabs. The high sides of the hull means you have a very dry ride. The short waterline length means it can turn sharply if needed and you can use the trim of the engine to lift the bow so you comfortably power through any rough conditions. The SL20 O/B has one of the deepest V-hulls in its class. With a 23-degree deadrise, it cuts through the water and helps with stability at rest.
The SL20 is sold on a twin axle trailer that is fitted with LED lights. The entire package weighs about 1900kg, so it can be towed by any vehicle rated for 2-tonnes or greater, making it a very safe family boat-motor-trailer package.
The Whittley family business is celebrating its 69th year of building reliable boats in Australia - for Australian conditions. There are Whittley Clubs in every state of Australia, so you are not just buying a boat, you are buying a lifestyle and something in common with an adventurous and friendly community of boat owners.
This turn-key trailerable boat rig has the ride and performance that will not disappoint. To enquire about these iconic Aussie boats, contact Laurie from Whittley QLD at The Boat Works in Coomera Ph: 0409 830 078 whittleyboats.com.au
SeaDek is a revolutionary product utilized not only by the top boat builders in the marine industry, but also in the aftermarket by boat owners seeking custom products. Made from closed cell PE/EVA foam, SeaDek products offer safe and comfortable alternatives to marine traction products currently on the market. Easy to install and customizable, SeaDek replaces the need for moulded in non skid, saving time and money during the manufacturing process, and its easier to clean and maintain than marine carpets.
For custom products, it's never been easier to have a Gold Coast Canvas professional take your project from start to finish. As SeaDek Certified Fabricators we are factory trained to specialize in the entire SeaDek process. We can digitally pattern boats, create CAD drawings, cut SeaDek PE/EVA material using CNC technology, and install the finished products.
If you have a boat, you have a place for SeaDek!
Diesel fuel is often contaminated with microbes, like bacteria and fungi, which feed on hydrocarbons and water (from condensation, rainwater, or adsorption of water molecules from air). Biodiesel is especially good at attracting and absorbing water molecules.
Microbes will usually grow on fuel tank walls or at the interface where the diesel floats on the water. If left untreated, the microbes quickly multiply and create a type of ‘sludge’ which interferes with the efficient operation of the diesel engine, initially by blocking filters and injectors. Engine performance suffers, fuel consumption increases, and engine maintenance becomes more expensive. Blockage of the fuel system, causing engine failure, becomes a real possibility.
PFM Blue is a non-toxic, eco-friendly, world first technology fuel treatment system designed to destroy the ‘diesel bug’ microbes without the use of harmful chemicals.
PFM Blue fuel conditioning units use a combination of UV light, which interferes with the microbes’ ability to reproduce, and magnetic fields to completely destroy the organisms. The units also remove water from the diesel, preventing further contamination, and improving fuel efficiency.
PFM Blue fuel improvement products are available in two different types of units:
INDIVIDUAL INLINE UNITS These units are installed between the tank and engine along the supply lines. They will improve fuel quality, as it flows, directly to your engine. There are several units (from the GP04B to the GP32B-BKC) which cater for engines that range in power up to 10,000hp.
The recirculation units have been developed for two different purposes: The first range is designed for maintaining a variety of new or cleaned tanks of up to 28,000L capacity. The second range (commercial units) is designed for cleaning a variety of tanks of up to 57,000L capacity.
All recirculation units condition and clean the fuel, improving its quality, while maintaining the ISO 4406:2017 Standard for Diesel Fuel.
Options are available for remote operation and additional systems monitoring, BMS (battery management system) interconnection and SMS text monitoring.
Volvo Penta is launching its Assisted Docking system as a retrofit upgrade for many yacht owners with Volvo Penta IPS (Inboard Performance System), from the year 2012 and onwards.
This launch from Volvo Penta includes software updates, demonstrating how the Volvo Penta IPS propulsion system can keep improving over time, as Volvo Penta innovation continues the evolution of the company’s complete helm-to-prop solutions.
Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking system gives the captain better control when docking a boat. The system automates his or her intentions, compensating for dynamic variables such as wind and current, and helping the vessel stay on its intended course. Regardless of experience level, boaters testify that the system provides easier and safer docking.
The system made a splash when it was launched – with award recognition at the METSTRADE Show, IBEX and the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). And it’s no surprise – it really is a truly unique docking experience.
Assisted Docking is available for retrofit in the aftermarket for D6-IPS, D8-IPS and D11-IPS packages – from model year 2012 for EVCE and EVC2.
How Assisted Docking is retrofitted will be boat specific, ranging from a simple software update to full upgrade kits that also include the Joystick and Dynamic Positioning System (DPS), antenna and Glass Cockpit interface. Each customer can consult with an authorized Volvo Penta dealer to evaluate whether Assisted Docking is the ideal fit.
“Previously, this technology was only available for new boats,” explains Anders Thorin, Product Manager Electronics at Volvo Penta. “But we want to ensure that our current customers are able to continually enhance their experience on the water as we continue to make boating more accessible, safer and stress free.”
“Offering software upgrades for our Volvo Penta IPS system means that boat owners can unlock newfound performance in their existing vessels,” said Johan Inden, President of Marine Business at Volvo Penta. “We will continue to innovate and explore how digital enhancements can deliver a continually improving experience for our customers.”
Assisted Docking is a hybrid between automated docking and manual docking. The beauty of this system is that it gives the captain enhanced control. Volvo Penta’s team of experts – from software developers to test drivers – have made the system behave intuitively in all situations, so that anyone can feel like a seasoned captain.
“I was not prepared for such a seamless experience,” says Maria Ronger, an existing Volvo Penta customer, and new Assisted Docking user since testing the system on her yacht. “This is a boat that I know well, I’ve docked her many times. I was wary that the docking system might feel artificial and take away from my boating experience, but it is not like that at all. It is smooth. It does not take over; it is a helping hand. I still feel in full control, but Assisted Docking gives me a new level of confidence.”
with Volvo Penta Assisted Docking – the next generation of marine automation. It allows you to defy the elements by removing the dynamics of wind and current, as well as maneuver in tight spaces, enabling safe and easy boat docking in challenging conditions. "Introducing a new generation of our D4 and D6 propulsion packages, from 150-480hp. 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.
Learn more at: www.volvopenta.com/en-au
Jeanneau has announced the launch of the Merry Fisher 1295 Fly: a motor yacht whose quality is evident in even the smallest details.
Magnificent on the interior and on the exterior, with new signature windows in the hull, this model is perfectly designed for unforgettable family cruising experiences, representing the tremendous ingenuity of Jeanneau.
Merry Fisher 1295 Fly has clever features offering an exceptional quality of life - This new model features unprecedented living spaces for relaxing with family on board. The generous aft cockpit opens onto the sea: a very spacious, electrically controlled starboard terrace can be deployed, providing easy access to the sea for swimming, while a large, portside door facilitates access on board.
Forward, the cockpit design is unique, with three sun loungers directly integrated into the deck plan. With this clever layout, unprecedented aboard a 40-foot flybridge powerboat, the result is pure pleasure!
The flybridge enables you to enjoy an additional space for relaxation, with its U-shaped saloon, boasting a refrigerator and an optional galley, a generous sundeck, and a fully equipped helm station.
Refined, fluid design on the interior, the quest for evermore comfort and the desire to create new standards have been absolute priorities in the layout of this new
Faithfulmodel.
to its design principles, flow of movement between living spaces on board is optimal - The interior galley is entirely open to the aft cockpit, which favours easy movement and communication between living areas. The large starboard-side door, aligned with the pilot’s seat, provides easy access to the recessed sidedeck and forward cockpit.
A panoramic view from the saloon, with its large windows in the hull, gives this model a very bright interior, enhanced by a selection of contemporary materials and fine finishes. Three cabins offer an incomparable level of comfort for the well-being of all on board. The forward owner’s cabin is equipped with a private head with a separate shower compartment, while the two guest cabins also feature head compartments with separate showers. Copious storage throughout the interior places comfort and quality of life on board at the heart of this new model.
Undisputed savoir-faire and proven technology for a pure cruising experience - Powered by triple outboard
engines, 3 x 300 HP, the hull of the Merry Fisher 1295 Fly has been developed specifically for safe cruising to any destination. The boat planes early, even at moderate speeds, to ensure fuel efficiency and maximum comfort on board. The power and additional space afforded by the outboard engines are further strengths.
This new model also benefits from the very latest technology for optimal comfort, worthy of a motor yacht! The interior helm station is equipped with a dual GPS screen. Triple outboard Yamaha engines are paired with the latest joystick and autopilot technologies.
The Merry Fisher 1295 Fly can also be equipped with a bow thruster, generator, air conditioning, a gyroscopic Seakeeper stabiliser, or even a hydraulic gangway.
A pioneer in this segment of outboard powerboats equipped with a flybridge, Jeanneau continues to expand with the launch of this major new model, which is available from Northside Marine.
Contact David on (07) 3265 8046 or email your enquiry to davidc@nsmarine.com.au
Merry
Merry
The fun event promoted as “The event that stops Moreton Bay” will be back again next year – promising to be an even bigger celebration of classic timber cruisers and all things boating.
The inaugural Moreton Bay Classic, held off Manly in June, was so successful the organisers are planning an even bigger followup event in 2023.
Owners of classic timber cruisers from as far afield as Sydney have already expressed interest in attending the next classic, with a large fleet of spectator boats also expected to join in the fun again.
And even though the event is almost a year away the banter is flowing freely between the owners and skippers of the two boats who came up with the idea.
Paul Crowther, owner of Mohokoi, recalls how the event started.
“We were waiting for South Pacific, skippered by Jacob Oxlade, to catch up with us at an anchorage,” Paul said.
“We took a film as they went past. And I just happened to post it and had a go at Jacob, asking why he co nsidered everything a race, which started some banter.
“He claimed he was quicker, so I threw down the gauntlet and said, ‘Well, let’s have a race and see who is quicker,’ and Jacob and his owner Robert Siganto accepted the challenge.”
Both the boats in question are from the Moreton Bay area. The South Pacific 11 is a 72-foot vessel built by the famous Norm an R Wright & Son in 1962. Paul Crowther’s Mohokoi, skippered by Hudson King, is a 70-foot vessel built by Wayne Tipper in 1995. South Pacific skipper Jacob Oxlade also had inside knowledge of Mohokoi, as he was a previous skipper, which made the challenge even more fun.
The idea of a day out on the bay, with the extra frisson of excitement a “race” would provide, quickly expanded to include an invitation to all the other timber cruisers in the area, many of which were built locally using local timbers. The idea was for the bay to come alive with classic timber vessels, recreating scenes similar to those in the Brisbane River for the Bicentenary.
Thirty-five boats competed in the inaugural 10.9 nautical mile fun event, with boats motoring from Green Island near Manly to Peel Island, with another 71 classics registering as spectators. It is hoped all classic boats will compete as entrants next year now that owners have seen how safe and fun the event is, run with the approval of Maritime Safety Queensland and the Water Police.
Boats were handicapped according to waterline length, engine size and top speed. And they are off and racing!CAROLINE STRAINIG catches up with event organisers of the Moreton Bay Classic, which celebrates our maritime history.
“We also want to encourage the next generation of people to love timber boats because so many oldies own them now.”
Thirty-five boats competed in the inaugural event with another 71 classics registering as spectators.
More than 200 people attended the free barbecue at Horseshoe Bay on Peel Island afterwards, dancing the afternoon away to the sounds of a live band and turning the sleepy island into a hive of activity.
This year the classic was a handicap event with each boat receiving a start time based on its waterline length, horsepower and top speed, and the plan is for this system to continue. There was no formal betting, but a fun Calcutta was run during which people could “buy” a boat.
Mohokoi owner Paul Crowther said jokingly he wanted to have a bet on the outcome this year with South Pacific’s connections and the loser would have to pay for the bar, but his opposition wouldn’t take the bet “because they were too nervous!”.
In reality that was lucky because the Mohokoi had engine problems during the race, and Paul would have lost. Her engine is being repaired with unconfirmed rumours it might have some extra “oomph” added so they can beat South Pacific next year.
Because this year’s event happened at such short notice the organisers, owners of South Pacific and Mohokoi, have decided to hold the classic again next year to allow all those who missed the inaugural event to attend. Thereafter, it will be held biennially, in the same year as the Tasmanian Wooden Boat Festival, so boats that head north after the festival can join in.
The 2023 classic will be on Saturday, June 24, the first Saturday of the school holidays, to take advantage of the beautiful winter conditions on Moreton Bay. However, in the event of bad weather, the fun may move to the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron’s Canaipa campus.
For the 2023 event the connections would like all classic vessels registered as participants, but non-classic spectator boats are welcome to register in the spectator division. With sponsorship and merchandise sales, it is hoped to keep the after-cruise fun on the beach free, but registration will be required pre-event to assist with planning. Registration will open a few weeks before the event.
And who won this year? One of the smallest boats in the fleet. But the result is immaterial.
“For me, it was really about encouraging people to leave the dock,” Mohokoi owner Paul Crowther said. “Every day I see boats sitting in marinas and they never leave. We wanted people just to get out. We also want to encourage the next generation of people to love timber boats because so many oldies own them now and we need the next generation to love them too.”
You can keep abreast of developments if you look up the Moreton Bay Classi c on Facebook. Enquiries to Jacob Oxlade on Facebook Messenger or email him at joxlade@live.com
Fun was the order of the day, with handicapping ensuring the smaller boats had a fair go. The classic cruisers made a stunning sight as they chugged around the bay, with a handicap start and a focus on safety, ensuring no close encounters. Ready to duel – pride and bragging rights will be on the line when the skipper of South Pacific, Jacob Oxlade, and Hudson King, the skipper of Mohokoi, do battle again next year. The pair had great fun hamming it up for the camera to promote the 2023 event. There's nothing like a fun race to add a little excitement.That’s GCCM’s motto, and they do deliver. Proud of their recent 2022 ACREW Award for best International Superyacht Refit Yard, the Coomera marina is also proud to service the local boating community.
Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard offers a state-of-the-art secure storage facility for up to 250 boats, to a length of 11 metres or 14 tonne in weight. Completely undercover, it’s one of the most modern facilities in the southern hemisphere and includes the world’s latest development in marine forklifts that quickly and safely lift the vessels in and out of the water. For those of you with larger vessels, including boats with flybridges, external dry storage racks are also available for boats of up to 37ft in a safe and secure area.
“We love having this flexibility to get in the water without stressing about towing our 28-foot sports cruiser” says Dianne from Hope Island. “We call dry store an hour before and she’s ready when we get to Coomera. We used to have her in our backyard, but she’s better protected from the Queensland weather there, and we get to spend more time on the water.”
For their annual maintenance or refit needs, local boat owners can rely on 90 leading onsite marine experts working together in the marina. Every conceivable marine trade and service can be found in one convenient location: from a very experienced chandlery to antifouling specialists, cabinetry to teak decking artists or electrical and hydraulics experts. We are the “Westfield” of boating, says Kevin, Operations Manager at GCCM.
The Big Lift can haul out up to 300 tonnes, wide boats such as catamarans up to 10 metres wide and even commercial ferries, barges or fishing trawlers.
“Each day brings very different boats and the variety of vessels we service is amazing” says Nick, Dockmaster at GCCM. “Today we splashed MY Bad Company, an amazing game fishing boat getting ready for their black marlin season in Cairns. Last week, we took care of not-so-little MY Little Audrey, an 82-foot Viking, the biggest game fishing boat in Australia”.
GOLD COAST SAILING BOATS HEAVEN James and Fiona own one of two 42-foot Leopard catama rans in Australia. They are very grateful for the help they received at the marina. “We appreciate the friendliness of the crew. Everyone from the admin team to the yard crew made it so easy for us. We had never lifted our boat before, and they helped us all the way” says James. “We used 7 of the marine trades at GCCM and they all coordinated their work seamlessly”. “We also appreciated the complimentary cars and the fact everything is close to the marina” added F iona.
All you need to do is bring the picnic lunch (or order lunch to go from the award-winning onsite restaurant Quarterdeck Kitchen), step aboard, cast off and if you need fuel there are diesel and unleaded fuel bowsers on the way out of the marina.
There’s even a customer lounge with restroom facilities and when you return you just tie the boat up to the pontoon and the marina crew will do the rest. This fantastic service allows you to enjoy a lot more boating and a lot less hassle. The crew at Dry Store is at your disposal to splash your boat or your jet ski any day between 8am and 4pm (5pm in the weekends).
The marina caters for many sailing boats, offering the use of a keel pit to work under the waterline and a choice of renowned sail lofts and rigging experts.
Local commercial boats are regulars too and know they can count on the reactivity of the shipyard when they need an urgent haul out, like MY Kaiala from Sea World who needed a quick fix before going back to their wonderful whale cruises or Cove Cruises cute Kilkie, a beloved heritage vessel that has been in Sanctuary Cove for almost 32 years!
“We have used GCCM for the last 7 years", says Margrit Warbutt from Cove Cruises, "and they always make us feel welcome.”
So, here you go, all you need for your boat can be found right here on the Coomera River. Happy Sailing!
Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard Ph (07)5502 5888 reception@gccm.com.au
The store in the Southern Hemisphere Getting MY Little Audrey ready for Black Marlin Season Bumblebee using the keel pit at GCCMWe’ve assembled the widest choice of leading marine businesses with an impeccable reputation for quality without compromise. It’s their combined craft, their unrivalled experience and their attention to detail that sets the GCCM yard experience apart. It’s the small stu they sweat and the boundaries they push to deliver the best quality outcomes for boats of every shape and size. That’s why we are Australia’s most highly awarded marina & Call,shipyard.drop in or check us out online for an obligation free quote for your boat.
Many boat owners are business owners, and at some point, they decide it’s time to swap the time they spend in their business for more time out in their boat. Despite some similarities between selling the two assets, for example, commission structures and timeframes, a business can present far more stress if you are underprepared.
My name is Mick Godwin, and I specialise in selling marine industry businesses. Despite a vendor selling their houses, cars, boats and the like, they are rarely well versed in what to expect when selling their business. So, this article will hopefully shed some light on the high-level steps in what you can expect when selling your business.
A successful sale takes planning, patience and an excellent understanding of who the buyer is and why the business is precisely what they are looking for. But before all that, you need to ask yourself, is there anything more you can offer your business before starting the process? And if you are happy with the prospect of selling, the next step is to talk with a business broker. If the broker serves you correctly, you can probably expect to follow these steps.
STEP 1 - You’ll be required to start gathering some information so your broker can understand the market value of your business. Whilst you’re collecting this, talk to your accountant about your plans to sell and understand any tax implications that may arise. To do this, start gathering your financial data and sales history together. If you’re involved in the business, you’ll need to provide payroll summaries and BAS statements to substantiate your earning reports.
STEP 2 - Marketing; I don’t think a house has been sold without a marketing budget for 20 years. Still, this comes as a surprise for some. Business sales aren’t Gumtree ads, you should budget between $3000 - $5000 for most businesses under $1million, and it can go up from there. This money goes to professional copywriters, SEO people, graphic designers and administration staff. Your marketing should be targeted and professional; understanding who your buyer is and where to find them is why you engage a broker.
STEP 3 - At this stage, your focus is back on running your business. In the background, your broker is answering calls, making calls, returning missed calls, emailing old leads and replying to new leads. Unlike boat sales and definitely not like real estate, this process can take many months or even years. It can even take months to get an offer from a buyer, let alone another few months to work out the conditions so we can have a conditional contract signed and deposit paid. So don’t think this part happens quickly; it does not.
STEP 4 - Calling it the settlement stage is a little misleading. If you now have an agreed price, there is a genuine risk your solicitors can bog the deal down whilst putting your legal bill up. Again, another reason why a
good broker is vital. If your broker has used the last few months building rapport and becoming a trusted advisor to both buyer and seller, they can help the parties agree on a sticky clause without doing a disservice to anyone. Sometimes, commercial minds help legal minds not lose sight of the forest through the trees. Once signing takes place, you now should have an obvious path on what conditions need to be met so you can proceed to settlement and get back out on the water.
I’ve just described the broad steps you need to take to sell your business. It takes time, and the best advice I can give right now is always to be prepared for sale. If you wish to talk more about you and your company’s plans, then get in touch with me via the details below. I’m based right here on the Gold Coast, but I look after businesses right across the country because rarely your ‘best’ buyer is your neighbour.
Mick Godwin Ph: 0416 638 mickgodwin@benchmarkbusiness.com.au154
Photos supplied by Leigh-Smith Yachts
Marked by traditional lines, tremendous interior volume and smart functionality. The latest model in the Island Gypsy range has landed and is undergoing final fit out at our facility at Gold Coast City Marina. If you are in the market for a twin cabin, twin bathroom economical diesel shaft drive vessel, now is the time to book your inspection before she is handed over to her new owner.
sland Gypsy 500 is a natural progression following on from the popular 400 and 460 models, combining all the luxury and practicality of the brand on a grand scale. Offering twin cabins including a master ensuited bathroom plus all the luxurious appointments our clients have come to expect from Island Gypsy.
Featuring wide walk around decks, huge all weather aft deck and oversized swim platform, wrap around windows to allow ample natural light, and a beautifully appointed galley with plenty of bench space and storage dual under bench refrigerators/ freezers.
Owners and guests are treated to two forward staterooms, a mid ship double with adjacent bathroom as well as a luxe owner’s cabin forward featuring a separate shower room and head.
The newly designed helm is complete with the latest electronics, which can be customised to the owner's specification and includes twin seating as well as a sliding helm door for quick access to the deck when docking.
Powered by a single Cummins or Scania engine running through a state of the art Python drive system it allows whisper quiet operation underway. With 2000lt fuel tanks and 1000lt of water this Island Gypsy 500 has the range to take you to the most secluded anchorages.
As with the entire Island Gypsy range, you have the ability to customise the interior furnishings to your preference and style.
To date we have built and delivered 4 Island Gypsy 460 models as well as 9 Island Gypsy 400 with a further 14 in build including IG400, IG500, IG550 and a IG65 for our discerning clients.
We cant wait to show off the range of vessels on offer to our new clients. Give us a call, visit our website or drop in to our floating office and display, Pier “H” Gold Coast City Marina.
“We invite you to join the Island Gypsy family and experience a new world of boating satisfaction.”
With interest rates continuing to rise, inflation nearing 25-year highs and the cost of living going through the roof, Aussies are being forced to consider whether they can afford their non-essential luxury items like their boats.
Boating is a way of life in Australia, with 1 in 10 people having a boat licence and more than 925,000 registered boats on our waterways. The $9b industry employs almost 30,000 people Australia-wide.
Now, rather than selling their boats, owners can use their boat to offset the increased costs of living by listing it for hire rather than being forced to sell.
“We have seen an increase in new boat owner marketplace registrations through all parts of Australia, with the highest density coming from popular boating locations along the Queensland coast, and not surprisingly Australia’s most expensive place to live, Sydney,” says Matthew Lloyd, managing director of Australia’s largest online boat hire marketplace Book My Boat.
“The platform provides boat owners with an opportunity to turn their under-utilised boats into an income generator.”
“This not only helps them hang on to their boat during these difficult times, but it also means their boat is helping them pay the weekly bills. We are turning peoples’ boat-idle days into paydays.”
Boat owner registrations on the marketplace have shot up around 80% in the last quarter as boat owners turn to their boats to boost their household income.
The fundamentals of the boating industry lend themselves perfectly to the share economy.
With boat utilisation rates as low as just 7%, Book My Boat aims to unlock up to 300 million idle boating days per year.
Matthew says his goals have always been to make boating more affordable and accessible in Australia.
“Generating an income from your boat offsets the high costs associated with boat ownership, whilst providing unprecedented access to the boating lifestyle to all Aussies who may not own a boat or may be simply on holidays and want to explore a new waterway,” he says.
“We’re not talking about luxury yachts at Book My Boat – 96% of registered boats in Australia are under 8m in length. These small trailer-size boats are ideal for listing on the marketplace.
“They are transportable, versatile, and typically simple, uncomplicated boats to operate. These boats represent a great opportunity for family and friends to enjoy a day out on the water on a weekend.
“Owners of these smaller boats are the ones really feeling the pinch of the increased costs of living. It gives us great pride to be able to help these everyday Australians out in their time of need."
The most popular boats on the platform currently are around 4-6m in length and capable of holding up to 5-7 people. Bowriders are the most versatile with families, friends and fisherman all enjoying what they have to offer. These boats are renting for between $400 - $600 per day which represents real value to our rental customers and a great source of income to our boat owners.
Book My Boat provides a full comprehensive insurance on all boat hires to take the risk out of the transaction for both parties. Boat owners set their own prices and conditions and all boat hires are protected by mandatory security bonds to ensure fuel and any minor damage is accounted for.
To learn more about the Book My Boat marketplace visit www.bookmyboat.com.au or email Matthew@bookmyboat.com.au
I made $80,000 income in 2 years renting my boat on the BookMyBoat marketplace. My trailer boat is exempt from commercial survey and all boat hires are fully insured”
Tim, Sydney boat owner Tim, Sydney boat owner ComprehensivelyInsured Boat licensedAussie boats becoming income streams as cost of living spirals marketplace
Get off your iPad and get down to Stejcraft to checkout the new Stejcraft SS64SD stern drive sports bowrider. This boat has been designed with Australian bowrider enthusiasts in mind. The SS64SD exhibits many unique features that make it an exciting sports runabout, while offering family comforts for relaxed weekend boating.
Stejcraft CEO, Tim Catanese, knows what is required to design a sport boat that is family-friendly, and combines powerful performance with the capability to handle rough Australian conditions. Tim, who comes from a family of boat builders, was an Australian international water ski competitor for 14 years, and spent many years living and working among the most popular USA boat manufacturers.
Tim explains that most US-built bowriders are designed for inland waters and not built for the rough and tumble of the Australian open waters. “ We set out to make a USA-style, high quality bowrider specifically designed for Australian conditions. By manufacturing locally, we are able to keep the retail price lower than the USA imports, and control the quality of each boat we build. The SS64SD is built tougher than competing sports boats in this class, and the boat looks absolutely world-class.”
The company set out to build a cool looking boat, capable of rough inshore and offshore waters. The SS64SD is built to thrill, and will perform just as well as super expensive wake boats that you often see cruising up the river. Tim declares, “With agile handling, this boat has the added capable of going offshore for extreme pleasure, like wave jumping, or the more placid whale watching.”
The SS64SD is 6.47m in length and has a 2.45m beam that can carry 200lt of fuel in the tank. “The spacious universal layout lends itself to any type of water sports
you are undertaking, while offering luxurious comfort. The seating, easily able to accommodate eight people on board, are all installed deep in the cockpit for a safe feel when in an adrenaline-filled sports mode, or while simply relaxing,” states Tim.
The long and wide bow seating allows passengers to stretch their legs out, while making space for a portatoilet under the front starboard seat cushion. The very spacious cockpit features swivel bucket seats for the driver and main passenger, and a rear dicky seat behind the driver’s chair. The family friendly boat has an L-shape rear lounge on port side, and a unique rear seat on the swim platform.
Tim explains in detail, “This truly dynamic design offers more storage than any other boat of its size. There are two large ski lockers, one aft and one forward. Further, there are large storage bins in rear and another one behind the driver’s seat. The functional design includes a large anchor locker, which is separate from the cockpit, unlike many US-built bowriders.”
The SS64SD features a distinctive driver’s helm with two gauge sections on each side of the steering wheel, which are all finished with chrome bezels. The helm allows mounting space for a built-in 7” GPS sounder. A high quality stereo system is built into the dash connecting four speakers, well positioned around the cockpit, and a six-gang switch panel with spare switches for future accessories.
“This boat is built of full composite with no wood used anywhere. The manufacturing process includes a foamfilled hull to meet strict US flotation standards, far more demanding than the Australian standards. The deck is built from a one-piece deck mold, unlike any other boat of its class in Australia. The upholstery and stitching are the highest grade available using imported Spradling vinyl for durability and a stylish finish,” clarifies Tim.
Offering outstanding maneuvering flexibility, the hull will not drop off the plane at a low speed, allowing for a young child to kneeboard at safe speeds. The hull also naturally creates a fantastic wake for the aspiring wake boarder. And most importantly, with a 21-degree dead rise, the hull makes easy work of those bad weather conditions, ensuring your family will get home quickly and safely.
The SS64SD is fitted with a 250hp Mercruiser. The new generation of stern drive engines are easy to maintain and offer the best performance. Stern drive engines are quiet and significantly increase the deck space. With the engine weight closer to the centre, everyone onboard will be impressed by the SS64 SD stability and comfort. The boat has a super efficient hull with oversized chines that hold the boat up on the plane better at a lower horsepower.
The boat colour schemes vary and there is plenty of opportunity to customise your boat. Tim explains, “We assure a very fast delivery time and are happy to discuss colour options to accommodate buyer special requests. For those thrill-seekers, the SS64SD is available with a forward facing Fluid Core wake tower or a rear ski pole option. We offer as standard a Dunbier trailer, although recently, we are upgrading buyers to full-custom Easytow trailers for a cool look and style.”
Tim assures buyers, “Before you make a decision, check the Stejcraft SS64SD. I can promise you, it’s the best allround boat you can buy for your money, no matter what you feel like doing out on the water for the day. We offer premium features at an affordable price, packed with versatile functionality. This is an easy handling boat that’s ideal for a family or watersports junkie.”
Axopar has taken another step towards perfecting the Axopar 37 Adventure Dayboat - introducing a whole new concept in cockpit comfort and luxury with the new ‘Mediterrana Edition’ option. The signature Axopar individual seating format can now instead be optioned as luxuriously spacious sofa-style lounges throughout which, particularly on the Axopar 37 Sun-Top, turns the entire boat into the most stunning of relaxation platforms.
Inspired by a love for lounging and socialising onboard, Axopar have developed the new Mediterrana Edition for the Axopar 37 Range. Axopar have now fully utilized the perfect layout of the Axopar 37 Sun Top, further enhancing their appearance with more relaxed, elegant looks and comfort on Youboard.cannow
choose to upgrade your boat with comfortable and plush cushioning on the foredeck, where the existing seating has been further extended for the ultimate sun lounging experience.
“This is the perfect package for enjoying the sunny Australian weather and something I had been hoping Axopar would add to their offerings”, says Peter Hrones, Eyachts MD.
On Mediterrana Edition Axopars the cockpit will feature a plush aft sofa, and the drivers’ helm seats have been completely remodelled as a lengthadjustable sofa with foldable backrest and armrests. All this is changed to further enhance functionality onboard and the feeling of open-air socializing with friends and family.
The upholstery consists of exclusive and subtle yet stylish detailing with accentuated patterns and a structured feel of marine fabrics, complimented by contrast-coloured pillows and piping details.
The new model includes outdoor waterproof fabric, extended foredeck seating/sunbed with armrests and storage under sunbed extension, with harbour cover, and length-adjustable driver/co-pilot sofa with foldable backrest & flip-up bolsters, with harbour cover. There is a sunpad extension on top of gullwing doors, and the aft sofa in cockpit has a large centre storage module, with harbour cover.
The optional extras include high/low table in the cockpit with a sunpad extension, Mediterrana sundeck cushions for multi-storage and for aft cabin including harbour cover, and extended seating cushions on top of aft fender storage hatches and anchor hatch.
The Axopar 37 Mediterrana is the best of both worlds – comfort and lounging at anchor, combined with one of the best handling boats on the sea.
For more information on the Axopar 37 Mediterrana, go to www.eyachts.com.au or contact boats@eyachts.com.au
Yamaha has announced the release of their new pearlescent white colour option across the best-selling F50, F70 and F90 outboard range.
This follows the successful rollout of the F115, F150, F200, F250 and F300 pearlescent white outboards earlier in the year.
Yamaha Marine, National Sales and Marketing Manager, Grant Binskin said, “We are seeing strong growth across the industry in the average spend on boating packages, as boaters increasingly demand the latest hull, engine, boating control and display technologies to take their on-water experience to the next level.
“This drive for personalisation and customisation extends to aesthetics, with more and more buyers requesting painted or wrapped hulls, to express their individual styles and tastes.
“Yamaha has come onboard with this trend, by allowing boaties to mix and match their outboard with their hull with the release of our eye-catching pearlescent white outboards, in addition to our ever-popular traditional Yamaha grey.
“We are really excited to finally get our hands on the F50, F70 and F90 pearlescent white models, as they are well suited to 4.2m to 5.2m aluminium and fibreglass boats, which make up a large part of the Australian boating market,” Grant said.
The pearlescent white option is now available across all key models in Yamaha’s mid and high horsepower line-up, from the compact F50 all the way up to their big horsepower F425 XTO.
With current demand for outboards at record levels, Yamaha recommends you contact your local authorised Yamaha dealer today to lock in your order.
An extension to their award winning F20 and F25 outboard range was announced by Yamaha Motor Australia, with the addition of two new short shaft F25 models with power trim and tilt (PTT), a new factory-installed tiller handle on select models and the addition of a secondary manual pull start factory fitted, on all electric models.
Launched in 2017, this model family has continued Yamaha’s proud tradition of producing exceptional small motors designed for durability, reliability and above all else, a more enjoyable time on the water.
These engines saw the release of Yamaha’s very first lightweight battery-less electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, as well as the addition of many great features previously only seen on Yamaha’s bigger horsepower models.
With the industry’s highest power-to-weight ratio, and the option of mechanical and/or electric start, mechanical tilt or PTT, and tiller or forward control options – the F20* and F25 have proven to be hugely popular and very versatile performers in Yamaha’s outboard stable.
The latest F25 model extensions bring PTT functionality across to two new short shaft models, in addition to existing long shaft models. This model variation comes in both tiller and forward control set ups, giving small boat owners more choice and the option to select a premium featured engine for their hull.
In addition, all factory-equipped tiller models that come with PTT, now feature a new tiller handle that is shorter and smaller, making it easier to use in applications where space is limited. The tiller handle has been purpose built for the F20 and F25 and delivers the perfect match of comfortable ergonomics and confident control.
The power tilt and trim switch has been positioned for easy reach and Yamaha’s Variable Trolling RPM Switch (VTS™) is standard on these models, allowing you to set the perfect speed for trolling your favourite lure.
For more information contact Marine Care QLD on (07) 3186 5270 or enquiries@marinecareqld.com
The purpose of a pre-purchase and/or insurance survey is to ascertain the actual condition of a vessel, assess the possible risks associated with insuring the vessel or to establish its true value.
Pre-purchase and insurance surveys are not one and the same. As a rule of thumb, a pre-purchase survey will generally be more than sufficient to cover the requirements of an insurance survey, but an insurance survey will not be sufficient to cover the requirements of a pre-purchase survey.
The difference between the two surveys is usually reflected in the additional time and cost associated with a pre-purchase survey. Each survey forms an important purpose, but it is important for a consumer to understand the difference between the two and their requirements when engaging a surveyor.
There is currently no industry standard as to what exactly will be included in each survey type, it will depend on several factors:
1. The price the client is willing to pay for the survey. Some systems or equipment on the vessel may be inaccessible or unable to be accessed within the agreed time or cost of the survey. This should be clarified before the survey commences so the client knows exactly what to expect.
2. The requirements of the insurance company
The insurance company may have standard reporting formats or special requests that surveyors must take into account as part of an insurance survey
3. Does specialist equipment need to be inspected?
You may request specialist equipment on board such as mechanical or rigging and sails to be included as part of the survey. Due to the specialist nature of these components, there may be additional costs, or you may need to engage a specialist separately to your marine surveyor to assist.
4. Is the survey being performed in or out of the water
To allow a full inspection of the hull, the survey will need to be conducted out of the water, but inwater testing may be required of some operational machinery. For a comprehensive pre-purchase survey, a sea trial is recommended to allow equipment and major systems to be tested.
It is vital for all parties to understand the purpose and type of the survey being undertaken, the type of report to be expected and what is and isn’t included before the survey
It is also important the client understand the surveyor’s scope for the type of survey being performed so they can request and negotiate a price for additional inclusions if required.
If you are looking to engage a surveyor, the Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors has over 500 members from all around Australia and New Zealand.
Visit us at www.aimsurveyors.com.au or call 02 6232 6555.
The Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors are the peak industry body for marine surveyors in our region. We strive to improve and promote the specialised discipline of marine surveying through the delivery of processes and resources to our members, while providing consumers with sufficient information to make informed decisions when engaging a surveyor.
The Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors does not accept legal responsibility for any errors, omission or consequences of any action taken in relation to information contained in this article.
Getting out on the water is a favourite Aussie pastime and we want to help you make sure that the boat you purchase is suitable for you and what you want it to do.
Purchasing a boat is a big investment and things can and do go wrong so you want the best advice
Engagingpossible.aCertified
Commercial Marine Surveyor™ to help you buy a boat makes a lot of sense. A quality condition survey is the best investment that you will make as part of the buying process.
Getting it right the first time may just save your life.
There are no Government controls that regulate the minimum qualifications or experience required by a marine surveyor in the recreational boating industry.
The Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors encourages boat owners to only engage a Certified Commercial Marine Surveyor™.
We care passionately about getting you out on the water because we love it too – but more than that we care about your safety and that means we care about your boat.
Check your marine surveyor’s qualifications yourself or talk to us before you purchase a boat or engage a marine surveyor.
Find a surveyor at www.aimsurveyors.com.au Email us on info@aimsurveyors.com.au or call us on 02 6232 6555
To become a Certified member of the AIMS, surveyors must provide evidence of their qualifications and experience that support the areas of specialisation they advertise.
AIMS Surveyors also commit and adhere to the AIMS Code of Professional Practice giving you, the boat owner, greater peace of mind.
Avoid that sinking feeling, pick the right marine surveyor.
Horizon Shores Marina has a huge variety of services on offer, with 500 marina berths, 350 dry stack storage bays, 200 trailer boat storage locations, a 70t travelift, on-water fuel facility, chandlery, marine refit and repair, hardstand and refit sheds, plus an onsite cafe.
Horizon Shores Marina is one of the largest wetberth marinas in Australia. Catering for vessels up to 80ft in length, including catamarans, houseboats and cruising boats, we can provide you with shortterm or long-term berthing arrangements
OUR FULL-SERVICE MARINA INCLUDES: Dockside assistance with our friendly staff on standby to catch your lines and assist you berth; power; water; access-controlled entry gates; dockside refuelling (diesel, ULP, premium); chandlery; ice; bait; café; haul-out facilities; refit and repair services; and even after-hours security patrols.
Our large hardstand facility uses a 70t marine travelift and 2 x 10t forklifts. We offer a secure concreted shipyard facility at highly competitive rates. Being a full-service marina, Horizon Shores provides haulout and hardstanding services for boats up to 70t in weight and 80ft in length. With all marine-related services available in one location, we will be sure to have you back on the water as quickly as possible, saving you time and money.
Services available:
Travelift haul-out 70t; forklifts up to 10t; external hardstand; work arm; enclosed refit/repair sheds 23m long x 12m wide x 10m high; and highpressure water blasting. Bookings are essential.
TRAILER BOAT STORAGE & BOAT RAMP
Horizon Shores Marina Trailer Boat storage is the ultimate solution to freeing up your driveway and storing your boat undercover.
Benefits include:
Unlimited launch and retrievals; work area available for you to clean or tinker away; no queuing at boat ramps or ramp rage; no driving around looking for parking for both your vehicle and trailer, and you’re on the water quicker. So, why not free up your driveway or make space in your backyard; even better if you live in an apartment; you can have it all.
Horizon Shores Boat Ramp is open to the public. Avoid ramp rage and congestion with our friendly staff on hand to manage ramp movements. Relax knowing that your car and trailer are at the marina, especially with our after-hours security patrols. Enjoy the convenience of dockside fuelling, a café, and chandlery open 7 days a week. All this for a flat fee rate of $20 per launch with unlimited nights out. Better still, why not purchase an Annual Ramp Pass for $299.00 per year. Please contact the marina office for further information on (07) 5546 2300.
The ultimate solution to boat storage that places your boat out of the water in a fully-enclosed storage shed. To make your boating easy, just call us one hour prior to your intended arrival, and we will launch your boat for you and have it waiting for you on our courtesy berth. At the end of your day, return your boat to the courtesy berth and we will flush your motors, rinse down the externals and put it away in our fully-enclosed dry stack facility.
Mercury Marine introduces its next generation of 25 and 30hp four-stroke outboards – the lightest and fastest 3-cylinder engines in their class.
The new engine platform is engineered from the ground up to be lighter, faster and easier to operate and maintain.
Starting at just 60 kilograms, these new 3-cylinder engines are 16% lighter than the previous generation and offer class-leading fuel economy.
All versions boast a 500cc powerhead with electronic fuel injection while, for the first time, electric-start models in 25 and 30hp come standard with Mercury SmartCraft® digital technologies, allowing boaters to connect to the most advanced digital gauges in the industry and to mobile devices through VesselView Mobile™.
“Mercury’s new 25 and 30hp platform brings new capabilities and a better consumer experience to a wide variety of recreational and commercial boats. In addition to being lighter, faster and quieter, the new engines in this line-up deliver what boaters have asked for with exciting new options like digital technologies and an ergonomically positioned tiller handle,” said Chris Drees, Mercury Marine president.
The outboards come in 25 and 30hp FourStroke, 25hp SeaPro™ and 25hp ProKicker™ models. The updated 25 and 30hp FourStroke and newlyintroduced 25hp SeaPro models are ideal for 11- to 16-foot aluminium and inflatable boats while the introduction of a 25hp ProKicker addresses demand for better trolling control for larger boats.
Engines in the platform are available with electric or manual start, tiller or remote controls, manual or power trim and propeller or Jet propulsion. Tiller models are equipped with an award-winning, ergonomically-designed tiller handle that is adjustable for right- or left-handed operation and is intuitive to use.
Intuitive, Innovative Features
- Exceptionally Smooth and Quiet, Easy to Maintain, Electronic Fuel Injection, Advanced Mercury Tiller, Available Power Tilt and Trim.
Boaters will also welcome the option for total vessel integration with SmartCraft technologies, providing more information than ever in this horsepower segment.
“Vessels with SmartCraft integration create a smarter, safer and easier boating experience,” said Jim Hergert, senior category manager.
“These fully coordinated technologies put gauges, sensors, vessel systems and computer-controlled features in one complete package.
“SmartCraft gauges provide vital engine data at a push of a button and anglers can dial in their trolling speed in 10 rpm increments with the Troll Control function.”
Speed and Acceleration - FourStroke outboards are optimised for reliable performance and fun in all seasons. The 500cc, single-overhead cam design delivers the fastest speed and acceleration among 3-cylinder, 30hp Lightweightoutboards.
& Compact - Pound for pound, these outboards are big performers. They’re the lightest 3-cylinder outboards in their class.
Powerful Alternator - Even at low speeds, the 17-amp alternator delivers powerful battery-charging output to keep onboard electronics humming. And there are no belts or bearings to maintain.
For more information about the 25 and 30hp outboard platform, contact Rod Elliott at AMC BOATS Ph: (07) 3808-7333 sales@amcboats.com.au
If you’ve been working too hard, or maybe lost that work and life balance, it’s time to get a little lifestyle back. Talk to the team at South East Finance to secure pre-purchase finance for a boat, jetski, motorbike or car. They will help you finance your new toy, so you can start to reclaim your weekends and enjoy more of your life with family and friends. Get your toy loan today!
A ustralian Marine centre is your local dealer for Baysport Boats which are built on Queensland 's Sunshine Coast and designed to endure the tough Australian conditions.
The homegrown brand manufactures a range of family-fishing boats from 5.65 – 7 m in cabin and walkaround models. Well-made and wellrespected, these affordable and solidly built fibreglass boats that are exceptional value for money yet achieve outstanding on-water performance.
With over 30 years boat building experience, the team at Baysport Boats have assembled a range of impressive eye-catching boats. Whether you need a boat for family days out on the water or a boat for chasing the big fish - there's a Baysport boat to suit. The cabins are large enough to sleep 2 adults, possibly even a child or two, while the huge cockpit area makes fishing adventures all that more enjoyable.
The new 700 Sports model is a real head turner with exceptional performance to match. This model has a full 6'+ cabin, allowing adults to sleep comfortably. Built into the transom is a live bait tank and under the front passenger seat there's plenty of room to stow your catch. The 705 Offshore model has walk-around side decks giving easy access to the bow which can also be accessed by the large
cabin hatch. A rear door gives effortless access to the large cockpit and makes it easier to bring large fish onboard. The rear lounge seat folds down to maximise the available space for working fish. This first boat shipment was snapped up by an existing Baysports customer, and there is another boat being constructed for fast delivery.
Baysport Boats use modern building methods, all models have a fully moulded fibreglass stringer system which is bonded onto the hull to provide stre ngth and rigidity. The stringers are filled with an expanded polyurethane foam to add positive buoyancy and further increase rigidity while also helping to make the ride quieter.
There is no wood rot from ageing, as tough composite board material is utilised in the transom meaning that there is no wood used in either the transom or the stringer system.
Along the keel of all Baysport Boats is a concave planing plank which is designed to allow more water flow to reach the propellor blades. The increased water flow assists the hull to come to the plane quicker and improve fuel efficiency. The concave tunnel also allows the hull to track better when travelling on a straight course as well as during turns.
The lengths noted for each model are the true hull measurement, unlike other brands which use the Length Overall (LOA) system which also include bow sprit, outboard engine and other appendages. The innovative design and construction combined with sleek and stylish good looks means that a Baysport Boat is a boat that you will be proud to own.
Whether you need a boat for family days out on the water or a boat for chasing the big fish - there's a Baysport boat to suit.
Australian Marine Centre has most models in stock or on order, so drop in or make contact to discuss a package to sui t you.
(07) 3808-7333 sales@amcboats.com.au BOATS RANGE
and weekend boat! The 800 Cruiser has the same cockpit layout and size as its big sister, the 850 VOYAGER Cruiser, and is mainly designed for the cruiser segment of the daycruiser market. A large wrap around windscreen protects passengers from wind and rain, and is fitted with wiper. There is a sunlounger and seating facing the swim platform, and a kitchenette allows for catering preparation and cooking.
The boat is fitted with PED lighting throughout, while all on board systems are powered by a two-battery system for peace of mind.
There is easy access through the transom door to the swim platform and a ladder makes it easy for water sports. There is a deck shower to wash off, and a ski pole can be added on request.
The 800 cruiser has a huge amount of storage available under floors, seating and lockers. A well designed bimini protects passengers from the elements. Below deck, there is plenty of space and comfort for daytrips and weekend trips. This Parker boat can sleep four persons down below, and has a large, spacious toilet room in the cabin.
New boat purchasers can decide whether to fit out the boat for daycruising or for weekend trips.
Parker have continued to build upon their successful concept with the optimised two-step hull, integrated engine bracket and deep V-shaped bottom. Driving performance, sporty qualities and comfort are a top priority in daycruiser and weekend boats. This type of step hull with integrated engine bracket eliminates
almost all the planing threshold, reduces the need for engine power, increases top speeds and improves fuel economy.
This Parker allows for high-speed performance, to get you where you want to go, fast. The 800 Cruiser is an exciting modern design with great fuel economy for sustainable boating. The stunning lines, and large and comfortable interior, makes this boat a real head turner.
For information Tel: 0414 252 254.
More at www.nautilusaustralia.com.au
Parker 800 Cruiser Sleeps 4 in cabinHave you ever gone on board your boat for a weekend away and found your batteries flat, your fridges defrosted and all your food & bait ruined, then you’ll know the disappointment of a ruined weekend.
We have, and that’s why we developed Boat Sentry.
After many years of unreliable shore power supply (or us forgetting to switch it over) resulting in ruined batteries and spoiled food & bait, we now sleep soundly knowing that if anything goes wrong while we’re away from the boat we’ll be the first to know.
Boat Sentry was developed in Australia by Boaties for Boaties and after 2 years of extensive testing and on boat trials, we have found it to be an extremely reliable & cost-effective solution.
If your boat is moored & left unattended for any period of time, you need the Guardian “Boat Sentry” monitoring system Boat Sentry will monitor & notify you (& upto 3 additonal persons) via SMS of any unwanted system failures while you’re away from your Boat.
The Main consideration in the development of the App was to keep it as uncomplicated as possible, (The Kiss principle) for those of us who aren’t that tech savvy whilst still retaining all the necessary features & functionality.
It is a simple plug & play solution with no requirement for wiring, Hubs or Internet Connection (except for updates which can be done via hotspot to your existing mobile phone).
Plug in the new mobile phone included in the kit to a 240V power point (or Inverter) on the boat, Connect the bluetooth sensors and you’re ready to go. Sound recording is required for High water, Gas, and smoke alarms if you have these but this is all done via the app.
We can, if you prefer, set up the Phone with all your required information, except for the sound alarm registration which must be done by you on site as all alarms have different sounds.
Boat Sentry monitors your vital systems giving you total piece of mind in the knowledge that they are working as they should be.
No nasty surprises when you get back onboard.
Boat Sentry will notify you, and/or your designated contacts when any of the monitored systems go outside your set parameters allowing you to take immediate action to rectify any issue that may pose a threat to the safety of your vessel.
Boat Sentry is a simple to use, cost effective, set and forget system developed by boaties for boaties. No expensive complex set up and minimal ongoing costs make it the perfect set and forget solution for anyone who wants peace of mind.
Boat Sentry can be supplied as a DIY solution or configured to your specific requirements (Sound Alarms excluded).
We are committed to continued research & product development to allow us to add additional capabilities & improvements to the system and this will be made available to all current license holders as it becomes available.
Technical Support is available online or by phone
Garmin International, the world’s largest and most innovative marine electronics manufacturer, today unveiled LiveScope™ XR , the latest addition to its award-winning live-scanning sonar lineup, now with an extended range for deeper and open waters. With excellent image sharpness at both close and long ranges simultaneously, LiveScope XR delivers real-time images of fish and structure up to 500’ in front of or below the boat—over 200% more range than the leading competitor system.
“You’ve never seen real-time images of fish and structure at distances and depths like this,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “LiveScope XR offers significant range performance without sacrificing image clarity and resolution. Having set the standard for live-scanning sonar, we’re thrilled to continue to bring this gamechanging technology to deeper waters so even more anglers can experience the LiveScope difference.”
With an optimized design for deeper water, the LiveScope XR transducer has extended elements so anglers can see both long- and close-range views in real time. Anglers can see further around and below the boat – up to 500’ in freshwater and 350’ in saltwater – and the Reverse Range feature allows them to utilize more of the screen to display fish and structure. To see detail closer to the boat, the Compress Range feature displays a live look in sharp detail up close, while still allowing the angler to keep an eye on targets further away at the same time.
With seven color palettes to choose from, anglers can see fish and structure in vivid contrast and clarity. Like all LiveScope transducers, LiveScope XR is equipped with additional sensors that allow it to constantly adjust the sonar beams to compensate for boat motion, so even in rough conditions, anglers will still see a steady sonar image, even at an extended range.
The LiveScope XR System delivers three unique vantage points with one mount that can be easily adjusted to fit an angler’s fishing techniques and preferences, no tools required. Simply turn the
transducer forward for a live look at what’s out in front of the boat; point it down to see directly beneath the boat; or turn it sideways with the included Perspective Mode Mount to enable the ‘top down’ perspective mode that’s perfect for scouting open water or shorelines. Select the LiveScope mode that best fits that fishing spot, and the view will automatically change on a compatible Garmin chartplotter2 screen.
The LiveScope XR System includes a compact GLS™ 10 black box with a LiveScope XR LVS62 transducer, along with a trolling motor barrel and shaft mounting kit, perspective mount bracket and a simple plug-and-play Garmin Marine Network connector for easy installation and integration with a compatible chartplotter. With a free software update, the LVS62 transducer (sold separately) can be added to an existing LiveScope System black box for customers who want to upgrade.
Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for anglers, sailors, mariners and boat enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing the most
innovative, highest quality, and easiest to use marine electronics the industry has ever known, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday.
For complete information on the new Livescope XR System, contact marinervelectronics.com.au at Horizon Shores Marina, Eddy ph: 0423 667 259
New transducer offers live sonar ranges up to 500’ in freshwater and up to 350’ in saltwater
LiveScope XR System with GLS10 & LVS62 Transducer
OzWinch 316 stainless steel marine winches feature a heavy duty 4mm body and are available in capacities from 500kg to 1000kg. Single, dual and three speed models are available with various gear ratios for easy operation, suitable for hauling Jet Skis and small, medium or large vessels. All winch models include a 7.5mt webbing strap with stainless steel safety hook and a removable winch handle.
Tesoro Yachts has announced The Yacht Sales Co as its exclusive Australia and New Zealand dealer making their range of premium super tenders and luxury motor yachts available to the region’s boating enthusiasts.
The Spanish shipyard is renowned for constructing high-end, dynamic, and luxurious walkaround yachts ranging from 38 to 55 feet that deliver exceptional performance and are suitable for a wide range of uses.
With more than 30 years’ experience, the Tesoro Yachts range was developed by former international superyacht broker Juan Carlos Olivares and international maritime lawyer Andrés Martínez, and the brand has become a solid success across four continents.
The Tesoro Yachts range is customisable to suit many uses, whether it be a luxurious performance tender for superyachts or an incredible platform to enjoy weekends on the water with friends and family. The yachts feature the highest standard of construction with full-infusion vinylester, corecell build which makes for the quietest experience while underway as well as incredible sturdiness and durability.
The range comprises the T-38 Cruiser, T-38 Open Deck and the T-40 and T-55, which are available in both outboard and inboard versions.
The Yacht Sales Co managing director Mark Elkington said the addition of Tesoro Yachts to the company’s stable was an exciting development for yachting buyers in Australia and New Zealand. “Tesoro Yachts build what are arguably the most impressive and versatile yachts to cater for the diverse needs of clients,” Mark said.
“Their range complements the Dufour Yachts models that we also exclusively represent, and we are excited to be able to offer an even wider choice of the world’s most acclaimed yachts to our clients in the region,” he said.
Further information on the Tesoro Yachts range can be arranged by contacting The Yacht Sales Co on +61 (0) 7 5452 5164 or tollfree (within Australia) 1800 855 338 or emailing info@yachtsalesco.com
One of the advantages of living in Queensland is the abundance of gorgeous waterways, dams, and lakes. Like many avid boating enthusiasts, Gavin and Lydia Skinner looked forward to their regular visits and boat excursions to the idyllic waters of places like Lake Moogerah and Somerset.
There are two unavoidable annoyances familiar to all boaties – getting onboard covered in mud or scratching the boat’s hull. They are minor inconveniences, but finding solutions to these issues would change the couple’s lives.
As Lydia explains, it began simply enough. “We love boating, and places like Lake Moogerah are incredibly beautiful. But getting through the mud each time was unpleasant and slightly detracted from the experience.”
Soon, her husband Gavin was carrying her, then other family members and friends. “It was partly to be nice and partly to make cleaning the boat easier,” he jokes. “But eventually, it became a little annoying.” The solution was obvious – buy a portable platform.
“We looked everywhere for a simple pontoon we could bring with us, but there was nothing. So, we decided to make one ourselves,” Lydia explains.
This was easier said than done, and the couple spent years in research and development before finding the perfect formula. Finally, in 2013, they launched Big Sky Innovations (BSI) and their first pontoon. Made from PVC horsehair material, it was sturdy, easy to install, and took just 3-4 minutes to inflate and assemble.
They started taking their product out to the lakes. It was an instant hit, with fellow boating enthusiasts wanting to know where they bought the pontoon. With Lydia doing the marketing and Gavin designing, BSI took off. “We had massive interest from the boating community just from using it,” Lydia says. “It was a simple idea that people loved, and everything grew from there.”
Demand increased, and soon there were requests for different designs. “People liked the convenience of the
pontoon, so we started to design various shapes for different needs,” Gavin explains. “We currently have seven models in our range - from straight walkways to extendable decks, with more on the way. Our customised designs have been adapted for use by Olympic Swimming Pools, NSW Wakeboard Association, Polo Australia and more,” Lydia says, “But we’re most proud of our ongoing involvement with the Great Barrier Reef restoration project. We work with Southern Cross University producing inflatable floating structures for scientists helping save the corals of this beautiful wonder of the world. It’s really satisfying work.”
The success of the enterprise has come as a surprise to both of them. “This started as a simple solution for getting on our boat without the mess and avoiding hull scratches. Now we’re helping the Great Barrier Reef,” Gavin says. “But our focus is still on providing innovative solutions for the boating community. From our docking stations, deck extenders to pool pontoons, we are always fully stocked. We love helping people ‘walk on water’.” www.inflatablepontoons.com
The Axopar 22 won three major awards in two months, winner of Best Of Boats 2021, European Boat Of The Year 2022 and Motor Boat Awards 2022. Not since 2016 has a major boat-builder won three such important, independent awards in such quick succession, for the same hull, and at that time it was for the equally ground-breaking Axopar 28, not long after it first launched.
Europe’s fastest-growing boat company have come up with a 22-footer that offers all the benefits of Axopar, in a sleek, trailerable vessel.
Superior to many boats out there, the cool-looking Axopar 22 T-Top will be a true driver’s boat. Sticking with Axopar’s DNA, the twin stepped hull and cutting bow offer first-in-class handling, seaworthiness, offshore capability and safety, combined with the efficiency and comfort that its bigger 28ft and 37ft siblings are renowned for.
This high-quality build and design means the new Axopar 22 is certified by NMMA ABYC standards, and Den Norske Veritas (DNV), one of the most stringent observers there is in leisure boating in Europe.
This new model is not going to be like other 22-footers on the market, hosting up to 7 people with comfortable seating, safe walkaround capability and the luxury of a separate toilet. Designed so that it takes nothing away from the thrill and sheer enjoyment of the ‘full-open’ Axopar 22 Spyder, the Axopar 22 T-Top takes the ownership experience further. The all-weather T-Top roof consists of a fixed canvas top within a GRP surround, mounted to a raked-back, black aluminium frame. Dedicated sun worshippers have the option of throwing back the roof infill, and simply enjoying those warm, beautiful rays until it’s time to head home. But knowing the often changeable and unpredictable aspects of Australia and New Zealand weather, you have the reassurance of having the roof closed.
With substantial headroom, the cleverly proportioned size and shape of the T-Top roof will ensure a good deal of protection from the elements, both for those seated at the driving console and for those seated in the areas immediately behind.
The unique, eye-grabbing Axopar 22 T-Top not only has the looks but is a true performer, offering one of the best driving experiences ever; unparalleled stability, agility and handling, combined with best-in-class seaworthiness. Built to match your needs!
In true Axopar style , the 22 will be extremely versatile to suit any owner, whether you want to do extreme water sports like wakeboarding and waterskiing, take the kids out donuting, go offshore fishing with your mates or just have a relaxing swim at your favourite beach, this vessel will do it all.
The cool-looking Axopar 22 T-Top offers some of the best-in-class handling and performance on the market, combined with solid, competitive pricing.
" There is ample walking room around the sides, the T-Top doesn’t feel like it is inhibiting on the movement or space on the boat. It is a very good shading solution for this boat as it does provide shade over the aft section and helm. The boat is very light and doesn’t add much weight so overall the performance is excellent. That sharp entry bow really comes into its own offshore. You’re not bouncing off the top of the big waves, you’re just cutting through and then it’s a soft landing into the next one. " Joe Fox, Sales Manager - Eyachts
The NEW Surtees 800 Game Fisher will have you outperforming your friends with seriously offshore fishing! If you’re seeking a boat which will have you sitting at the top of the food chain for offshore fishing, look no further - the NEW Surtees 800 Game Fisher is the boat for you!
If it’s the extended weekend trips with the family, or the game fishing adventure with mates, the 800 Game Fisher accommodates for both; offering protection for all-weather fishing, family fun and overnight adventures. Built with a fully enclosed wheelhouse with foldout doors forming the rear bulkhead. The interior features a freshwater sink, a diesel cooker which also doubles as heater and built-in fridge located under the helm seat.
Just like the previous models the 800 Game Fisher delivers the perfect balance of cabin comfort and fishing space and is packed to the gunnels with Surtees iQ™ technology and features.
The Surtees 800 Game Fisher. From bow to stern, it’s loaded with features that only a true Surtees can boast. To learn more contact our Surtees expert, Bill on (07) 3265 8029 or billh@nsmarine.com.au
Blue Water Windscreens is dedicated to repair and replacement of boat windscreens, and getting the job done right. Fabricating with almost 20 years of experience, they will assist from concept to completion, replacing the old parts from your boat for a new modern look or the traditional appearance when your boat was first manufactured. They are most regularly called upon to install new windscreens on trailer boats. All moulds and formings are done in-house to give you the best quality at the lowest price. Highly experienced in everything windscreens, they are qualified to provide clear answers to your most difficult questions.
The team at Blue Water Windscreens recently worked on a Kevlacat 2400 Offshore. “It was old, leaking, and falling apart,” describes Peter O’toole, owner of Blue Water Windscreens.
They had to locate and remove all bolts and screws, cut the silicone seal to remove the old screen, and then removed the excess silicone, dirt and debris. They filled in the old holes to prepare the template for manufacturing the new windscreen. This process would take only 30 minutes.
The new windscreen is similar in size and shape to the old one and uses the Blue Water exclusive frame systems with toughened safety glass panels. This is 100% better than the original one with the heavier duty frame system. The safety glass is protected in a rubber channel seal allowing flex without putting too much pressure on the glass. All of Blue Water’s windscreens are riveted together instead of screwed down, reducing the chance of corrosion occurring in the joints.
While it takes a few days to process the safety glass, it normally takes only one person to install the windscreen in around six hours. According to Peter, the most challenging part was the installation of the windscreen around the stainless steel supports for the hard top. “On our frame systems, each panel slides onto the last to join them together,” he explains.
The outcome, however, negates the difficulties. “The most enjoyable part of the installation is seeing all your hard work coming together piece by piece,” says Peter.
“The customer is happy. It made a huge improvement to his boat. Not only has it improved his vision, but it has added style and value to his boat.”
With the new Blue Water windscreens on this Kevlacat, the vision is clearer, and everything is clean, neat and tidy.
To book in for repairs, get a quote or ask for advice, call Blue Water Windscreens on (07) 3382 7883.
The easiest way to check for possible leaks is to just trickle water onto the windscreen one section at a time. Seals can be fixed but it depends on the type of seal that has been used. Most common is a silicone or Sikaflex seal in which case you just cut away the old seal and reapply the new one.
To ensure the windscreens are not damaged, it is best to not use chemicals on them. According to Peter O’Toole, a lot of the boat cleaning chemicals out there have acids of ammonia that will speed up the deterioration of the windscreen. He advises, “Just hose it off with fresh water and usa a microfibre or 100% cotton cloth. Apply a plastic protector, like vuplex, while in the shade. Applying in the sun can sometimes cause a reaction to the windscreen.”
Suzuki Marine strives to lead the marine industry with award-winning technology and products designed to make boating more enjoyable for all.
For 2022, Suzuki’s electronic throttle and shift systems, collectively known as Suzuki Precision Control (S.P.C), receive their first full model redesign since introduction.
The second-generation controls boast modernised styling and are available in single-lever binnacle, dual-lever binnacle, and single-lever flush mount configurations. These new controls now feature integrated “SELECT” and “THROTTLE ONLY” switches and an integrated emergency-stop tether switch (single-lever flush mount control only), negating the need for boat control panels for single outboard applications, saving precious space in the cockpit.
This intelligent system allows for the synchronised control of up to six outboards using a single binnacle lever. This includes the flexibility of having one lever controlling one outboard, one lever controlling multiple outboards (“1 LEVER” switch available on dual-lever binnacle) or two levers independently controlling multiple engines for docking, putting a boat on the trailer or other close-quarter manoeuvring.
From the first start until the end of the day, Suzuki's new integrated push button starting makes boating a breeze. With the shift position in neutral, the skipper can start from one to six engines using a single key. One push of the integrated control box button will
start the engines in order from port to starboard and one further push is all that’s required to stop them all Boaterssimultaneously.canenhance their experience further by combining their new 2022 S.P.C outboard motor with Suzuki’s latest SMG4 Multi-Function Gauge and take advantage of the new ‘Auto Trim’ setting, which automatically adjusts Power Trim and Tilt settings to a pre-set position when the boat reaches planing speed.
Interested customers are encouraged to visit suzukimarine.com.au to find out more and contact their nearest Suzuki Marine dealer. To learn more visit www.suzukimarine.com.au
SURF COAST MARINE 50-56 Brisbane Road, Labrador Ph: (07) 5563 7733
GOLD COAST SUZUKI MARINE
15B / 75 Waterway Drive, Coomera Ph: (07) 5665 9566
AUSTRALIAN MARINE CENTRE
3491 Pacific Hwy, Springwood Ph: (07) 3808 7333
BAYSIDE SUZUKI MARINE
3 / 55 Shore Street W, Cleveland Ph: (07) 3488 2019
The ultimate tender set-up demands the Ultimate Outboard Motor.
Suzuki portables are favoured for their outstanding performance, lightweight design, unparalleled reliability, and ease of maintenance. Available from 2.5hp to 30hp with the choice between Pearl Nebular Black and Super Cool White colour schemes in DF6A, 9.9B, 15A, 20A, 25A and 30A variants. Crafted to perfectly complement any bespoke yacht.
I t was a new business relationship for a new millennium. In 1999, Rex Francis formed Anchor Right anchors. A year later, brothers Peter and Warren Cleland started their boat building business, Bar Crusher Boats.
It was in those early days that Rex and Peter met at a boat show, beginning a strong relationship which has lasted for over 20 years. Rex was at the show to promote his anchors, and one of Peter’s objectives for attending was to find a better anchor for his boats.
As Peter explains, the anchors that his company had tried all had various shortcomings. Firstly, boats needed to carry more than one type of anchor, depending on the type of seabed. Secondly, some anchors were made from inferior materials, resulting in structural failure. Thirdly, some anchors would flop around when retracted, making a lot of noise – and there was a danger that they would come loose when a boat was being trailered down a highway. Plus, they just didn’t look good enough on the high quality boats that Peter’s company was producing.
Rex recalls that their initial conversation went something like Peter:this:
“So, what are these anchors like?”
Rex: “Oh, yeah … pretty good.”
Peter: “Will they work better than these other ones that I’m using?”
Rex: “All you can do is try one. Why don’t you take one with you? And, if you don’t like it, don’t worry about it.”
“Anyway”, says Rex, “I gave him a couple to take away, and it wasn’t long afterward that Bar Crusher put an order in.”
“They were early days for both businesses”, reminisces Rex. “And I used to deliver our anchors to their factory in Burwood. Back in those days they were only doing a small number of boats.”
Rex was delivering anchors to various businesses at the time, and the talk in the industry included how quickly Bar Crusher were rising.
He says that watching the founders, manufacturing manager Warren and marketing manager Peter, “just putting their heads down and going for it” inspired him to work even harder at his fledgling anchor business.
Peter says that they adopted the idea to “build it better and ask more for it” to build the brand and do it on a larger scale.
Marketing involved explaining that the boats were better engineered than many competitors. With innovative features like a deeper-V hull and water ballasting for increased stability. They looked tougher, more rugged, and actually performed better. Their philosophy necessitated fitting accessories that were also better – more durable and innovative.
Naturally, these boats deserved an anchor that was tougher, superbly engineered, high quality and attractive – and Anchor Right’s SARCA anchors fit beautifully with that concept.
Peter acknowledges, “Sure, the cost of our boats was higher, but we found that people were prepared to pay a little extra for superior quality, performance and Rexaesthetics.”recallsthe
first time he visited businesses to sell anchors. “Only two were interested. The opinion of the others was that they could get a cheaper anchor from overseas and that people wouldn’t pay extra. Turns out that those dealers were wrong!”
He had to battle many doubters who couldn’t see him making a success of the business but eventually the boating community began to realise that Anchor Right anchors “work far better and it’s worth paying a few extra dollars for quality.”
Peter joined in: “We had tried a few other ‘off the shelf’ anchors – like the hinge type – but found that they flopped and banged around and generally made a lot of noise when retracted. And didn’t set right when deployed. On the other hand, the SARCAs sat well in the bowsprit. On the seabed they’d roll over and set themselves well, and you can run over them and pull them out when it’s time to up anchor.”
Peter and Rex agree that mutual support by Australian companies for each other helps ensure the survival and success of Australian jobs and businesses.
Despite their success, Anchor Right is not a company to ‘rest on its laurels’ and is continually developing its range. The business now produces anchors up to 230 kg in the Super SARCA and 285 kg in the Excel range, so Anchor Right products have a broad appeal from smaller boats right up to much bigger commercial vessels.
Recently, the company’s superior product has seen orders fulfilled for New Zealand, the UK and they have now secured a contract with the large Vietnamese boat manufacturer, Corsair.
www.anchorright.com.au
Anchor Right are fitted at Bar Crusher HQ
The SARCA anchor has great aesthetics and will enhance the bow
To provide day boaters with even more comfort and room, premium luxury manufacturer Cobalt Boats has announced the introduction of the allnew R33 Sterndrive luxury runabout.
Addressing strong demand for a larger runabout, the yacht-certified R33 Sterndrive checks in at an impressive 33’ 4” LOA and 10’ 6” beam.Offering sleek lines, agile handling, superb performance and advanced appointments, the R33 Sterndrive is a yacht-certified example of bigger being better – and faster: Driven by Volvo or Mercruiser twin engines generating up to 860 horsepower, the R33 can reach speeds in excess of 95 kph.
The R33 continues Cobalt’s trend toward contemporary design, with its deeper cockpit and greater freeboard, which in turn enable a more spacious interior and larger bow and cockpit areas. Along with such standard amenities as a Garmin glass cockpit with multiple touchscreen displays, ultra-fast USB-C charging stations, 42 cupholders, a wealth of storage space, an integral swim step and a cabin that accommodates sleeping as well as seating. The R33’s unique offerings include the industry’s first Harman Kardon premier marine audio system – a Cobalt exclusive – along with a Seakeeper gyroscopic stabilization system.
In addition to an array of color and audio system configurations, functional options include a choice of L-seating or a galley, a removable Ice Mule soft-sided portable cooler, a solid teak dinette table, even larger 12” Garmin display panels, stainless steel LED docking lights, a side-entry door and RGB accent lights. Also available are a smart TV for broadband streaming; a hydraulically actuated swim platform; ‘Fresco Chil’ upholstery that reduces temperatures by up to 20° F. on dark surfaces; a dash-mounted mobile phone cradle with wireless charging; an intuitive joystick docking controller; teak flooring for the cockpit, cabin, head and swim platform; and the first one- touch, all-electric planar folding tower and sunshade.
“Incorporating a wealth of innovative technology to enhance the day boating experience, the new R33 Sterndrive features advancements in design, luxury, convenience and overall performance. We’re looking forward to sharing this exciting boating statement with our dealers and the boating public,” said Jared Lees of Cobalt Boats QLD.
To find out more contact Cobalt www.cobaltaustralia.com.au
Jared Lees Ph: 0406 332 830 jared@cobaltqld.com.au
2021 COBALT R6
The news coming out of the OKEAN Yachts factory in Brazil is the new 52 Fly’s performance, design and refinement combined with sophisticated navigation systems creates an overall innovative and superior vessel. The all new 52 Fly will be available exclusively for the Australian public just in time for the Christmas holidays. The boat captivates you with its high-quality construction, open and integrated layout, stable navigation, and extendable sides that integrate the exterior and interior bringing the outside in and creating extra entertaining areas.
“OKEAN Yachts is a 100% Brazilian owned and built company with a great reputation in the open market niches across the world. The company has grown from strength to strength over the past 5 years producing vessels ranging from 50 feet up to 80 feet. This new model in the portfolio will certainly surprise with its comfort, constructive technology, prestigious navigation, with an open design that connects the interior of the boat with the sea,” explains Roberto Paião, CEO of the OKEAN Group.
Discover OKEAN 52 - An impressive and striking design, the OKEAN 52 Fly, with its 15.14 meters of length, and over 6 meters width, with extended balconies, draws attention from the distance for its unique design that combines “adventure and elegance”. Italian architect Paolo Ferragni is the accredited designer and responsible for the creation of the entire OKEAN line. Mr Ferragni has made his mark with panoramic windows and glass doors that surround the boat which provide a 360° view from the inside to the outside area and can be enjoyed from anywhere within the vessel, from the kitchen to the dining table or at the main helm station. Another point of difference is the curved stylish furniture throughout this vessel, providing the comfort of a home and safety whilst navigating, and a retractable hide-away 50-inch built-in television in the main hall.
The OKEAN 52 also stands out with its large external decks, including extended side balconies on both port and starboard sides and a large hydraulic swim platform at the stern that further expands the beach club area and is also equipped with a grill and sink as well as a large sofa that connects to the kitchen located in the cockpit at the rear, making it ideal for socialising. The flybridge is a large “terrace over the water” with a second helm station, couches, and sun bed for relaxing and sunbathing. The bow offers a charming private lounge area, with sofas, a dining table and sun protection in the form of a custom awning. Downstairs to the lower deck are three very comfortable cabins, with capacity for seven people for overnight stays, with a master cabin amidships, a double bed fwd in the bow and another double bed with a bunk to the port side. The combination of colours, quality materials in high gloss, and a refined finish complete the interior design of the yacht.
a brand that you can depend on. That is why a Supercharge Sea Master Marine Battery is the premium choice for a marine battery. The reengineered container and cell design is made more durable, delivering tight-fitting elements and better channelling of residue preventing short circuits and improving vibration resistance. The Dura
Connectors have been re-engineered to facilitate a more efficient current flow to deliver maximum capacity and better durability. The improved process design provides stronger plate assembly bonding for better vibration resistance and longer service life. The construction of the calcium plates in super-compressed rolled strips creates a dense grid pattern allowing for a more compact unit, less vulnerable to heat & corrosion and delivering efficient cranking power. The addition of higher density paste formulation gives improvement with the batteries' semi-cycling ability. The higher Reserve Capacity holds charge longer, giving the benefits of superior performance and outstanding durability. PE Ultra Separator has an increased thickness improving strength, offering superior puncture resistance and exceptional durability. Sea Master batteries also have a specially designed Unified Flame Eliminator which provides protection from explosions triggered by external ignition sources. Having pure electrolyte allows improved battery charge ability, delivering higher capacity and allowing the use of more accessories for a longer time.
The fold down carry handle is easy to use and provides ergonomic handling and tucks in flush with the battery lid for safe and hassle-free installation. The presence of hydro eye is as a builtin charge indicator, providing a convenient read of the battery’s condition. The presence of twin terminals provides convenient and safe electrical connections for both starting application and accessory attachments.
With Australia’s trusted marine battery ensuring peace of mind for boat owners, Supercharge Sea Master is clearly the marine battery for you. www.supercharge.com.au/find-a-dealer
The 44 Sedan boasts the trademark amidships Queen-size master stateroom with spacious en-suite & and the versatile V berth cabin forward with a wet-head to port. With so many of our clients often restricted in berthage sizes either at their residence or at their marina.
The Alaska 47 has port and starboard sliding doors, full covered walk ways, large oval port lights to master cabin, luxury cherry interior, spacious saloon, electric galley, air-con, gen-set, bow and stern thruster. Large under cover cockpit, teak flooring, en-suite bathroom in master cabin, excellent flybridge layout with stairs and extended hardtop/deck.
This stunning sedan
Alaska 49 Yacht Fisher
Alaska Motor Yachts are proud to release the new 49ft Aft-Cabin – Yacht Fisher. The 49 is a modern take on a classic family layout with the focus on space and liveability. The three staterooms boast beautiful natural light and ventilation with the perfect blend of high quality gloss timber accents and luxurious contemporary fabrics.
Alaska 59 Sedan
Call now to semi-customize your new Alaska Motor Yacht flagship. The 59 Sedan has been designed with local knowledge for coastal cruising for families and avid entertainers. The open-plan integration of the helm, galley and dining and saloon areas allow for complete interaction with with everyone onboard.
Alaska 44 Sedan
Alaska 47 Flybridge
O riginally from the Hamburg region in Germany, Fritz and Marie Riesenweber settled in the Logan River district in 1866 and started fishing in the area to support their growing family. The Riesenweber family have now been involved in the fishing industry for five generations in Australia.
At 12 ½ -years-of-age, after a childhood spent crabbing, fishing, and shooting at Jacobs Well, Moreton Bay fishing identity Tony Riesenweber left school to work in the family business alongside his father Issy, 7 uncles –Ollie, Harold, Doug, Alf, Roy, Wally, and Artie - and their cousin Laurence. It was hard work, often from sunrise until well after sunset, with working hours dependent on the tides, and the type of crab or fish they were targeting.
As a 16-year-old, Tony became a skipper of the trawler, Seawasp. Then at 17, after the tragic death of his father, Tony had to step up to help run the family fishing business alongside his older brother, who was crabbing at the
time, Tony registered for his first commercial licence for crabbing and netting. It cost $10 a year and catches had to be registered with the QLD Fish Board. Since then, Tony has owned numerous types of fishing licences for crabbing, netting, line boats, and trawlers with his business mainly focused on mud crabs, sand crabs, prawns, bream, and flathead - primarily in the Moreton Bay area.
As the youngest in the family business, Tony remembers that many of the dirtier jobs fell to him, like tanning the
nets with tea tree bark, then having to hold the cotton nets while the men would coat them in tar to strengthen them - so he was often covered head to toe in tar.
Tony can still remember months on end of extremely hard work poling for tuna, when the fish were running thick off Moreton Island. One time, a body was pulled up in the trawler net at the mouth of the Brisbane River and, of course, they had to notify the police.
An even more remarkable family tale is that of their trawler, Tarana. It was purchased by the Australian Army in 1971 renamed the AS 3052 “Tarooki” and repurposed as an escort/transportation ship. The ship was deployed to Papau New Guinea. While out on a supply mission it ran aground off the coast and sunk in 1973. All souls survived.
Tony has operated several trawlers over the years, as well as custom built fibreglass flat bottom boats for netting and Duringcrabbing.Tony’s
time, he has seen constant change in the industry. For example, the way the catch is sold was altered when Raptis & Sons purchased the QLD Fish Board in 1987 and it moved from government to private enterprise. There have also been numerous changes to how licensees operate and how catch quotas are managed.
These days, catch quantities are subject to Government control quotas, with a major focus on sustainable and renewable fish stocks. In recent times, the industry has also been heavily affected by problems such as White Spot Disease which has had a devastating impact on the prawn and crab fishermen in the region.
The Riesenweber family remains involved in commercial fishing, with Tony’s son, Lionel, currently a commercial crabber, holding several active commercial fishing licences.
Over the years, the family has operated many different brands of outboard motors, like Seagull, Evinrude and Johnson. This hands-on experience has proved invaluable for Alan as owner of a principal Yamaha outboard dealership in the Moreton Bay region.
Tony decided to make the transition to an outboard sales and service business after the difficulty his family’s
understood the importance of keeping commercial boats on the water and accommodate the needs of fishermen.
He started his own Marine Care QLD business in 2009, beginning as an Evinrude outboard dealer, having successfully used them for many years, and recently progressing to Yamaha when Evinrude ceased production.
In 2020, the marine dealership moved to larger premises in response to increasing demand in the Redlands in line with rapid growth of the residential area.
Heading the business, Alan explains that the family’s commercial fishing experience allowed them to run most brands of outboard over the years. With the knowledge gained from a yearly average of 1800-2000 engine hours on the water, far more than that spent by most recreational boat owners, Marine Care Qld has the experience to better understand the needs of customers, offering real life advice and assistance.
Marine Care QLD has a ‘Commercial First’ policy, prioritizing the needs of customers ranging from fishermen, oyster farmers, crabbers, government agencies, and boat licence businesses to boat ramp and pylon cleaners, just to name a few.
Tony has been an active member in commercial fishing guidance and is currently a Director of the QLD Seafood Industry, previously having held positions such as advisor to the QLD Government CRABMAC (Crab Management Advisory Committee). This experience has helped him understand the broader aspects of the industry for both commercial and recreational boaties and fishermen.
It is well known that Covid has created unprecedented interest in the marine industry, which has provided challenges in meeting customer demand for boats and outboards. Owners of aging outboards have had engines repaired by the Marine Care QLD team when no replacement was immediately available. The team takes great pride in helping customers find the best solutions to keep them on the water.
Everything the Marine Care QLD team does revolves around reliability, so they need dependable service and products, making Yamaha an obvious choice. The team is determined to ensure that commercial operators can remain on the water, and they have extended that philosophy to recreational customers, treating them with the same consideration.
Marine Care QLD really live by their business mantra ‘Keeping you on the water longer’. No matter the size of the boat, everybody wants to have confidence that it will
get them to their destination and home again. Alan says that it is not about being the biggest, but about being the best, at what they do. The team focus on what is most important for customers’ boats – ‘Reliability’. They have learnt, through years of supplying and servicing outboards to commercial operators, how to deliver this confidence to customers. If something does go wrong, and with boats it does, Marine Care QLD customers can be confident that the team will solve the issue.
Every member of Alan’s team is encouraged to ask themselves ‘What would I do if it were my boat?’ which means that each job is undertaken with care and
a few minutes from the Redland Bay boat ramp, so every new outboard installation and new boat package is water tested before handing over to the customer.
Tony has been instrumental in building the business from the ground up and is now moving into semiretirement, and back to his passion of fishing. His two sons will continue to expand the business to meet the needs of the growing Redlands Area. Lionel is still a fulltime commercial fisherman, supporting the business between catches and maintaining the link to commercial operators. Alan, a keen boatie and fisherman since a young age, has spent his career in the corporate world and 18 months ago made a sea change to take over the business. He is now the owner and general manager of Marine Care QLD and is bringing his business
Tony as teenager with bar cod Tony, his brother Mackie, with a feed of snapper. Tony and Jeanette Marine Care QLD Showroom Alan Riesenweber at the helm of a Haines Hunter Offshore Riesenweber park at Jacobs Well, named after family members who settled in the area. Lionel Riesenweber is a commercial crabber andholding several active commercial fishing licences.
Pardo Yachts are made in Italy and brought to Australia and New Zealand exclusively by Eyachts. The new Pardo E60 is an exciting new concept in which all the design, style and elegance of Pardo Yachts is combined with a new ecosustainable approach where controlled speeds, low consumption, silent and safe navigation all encourage long journeys in maximum comfort.
The E60 has the ability to navigate well in displacement at 10-12 knots and to plane at 25 knots on account of the optimised hull design.
A common thread connects the elegance and the minimal style which have decreed the success of the walkaround range to this new project. A family feeling is immediately clear if we observe the lines of the bow, a distinctive feature of every Pardo Yachts boat. Two lateral terraces create an area of 33m 2 dedicated to relaxation and socialising.
The area outside the stern is characterised by a dining area with table and chairs, protected from the sun by an electric Bimini top with which you can navigate in total safety, even leaving it open. The stern area is completed by a platform that can be hydraulically lowered for recovering the tender.
The flybridge zone, unique to the E60 in the Pardo range, is customisable according to your requirements. It can be furnished with sofa and sundeck, or you can choose a second command
zone complete with negative windscreen and refrigerator cabinet.
The impressive design continues in the interior of the boat. The interior command zone is characterized by a side door on the right, which allows the skipper to have direct access to the lateral walkway in the mooring phases, without having to disturb any guests sitting in the dinette or in the cockpit. The saloon houses a fully equipped kitchen positioned at the entrance and both the table inside and the table outside the cockpit are easily reached. The dining zone and the lounge area are positioned more towards the bow on a raised zone that provides an exceptional scenic view.
The design of the lower deck proposes a longlasting style: simple and clean-cut lines in harmony with colours that give the luminosity and freshness of the environment. There are three cabins and three bathrooms and maximum liveability has been guaranteed.
As with all Pardo Yachts, there are many options to customise the E60 to truly make it your own. Timeless elegance, superior workmanship and quality of design mean it will be an excellent yacht, and only enhanced by your choices.
For more information on the Pardo Endurance 60, go to www.eyachts.com.au or contact boats@eyachts.com.au
NORTHANE GLOSS: The premium two-pack aliphatic linear polyurethane for durability and fade resistance. Excellent chemical, waterproofing and weathering properties. Ideal for refurbishing most surfaces and where a superior long lasting coating is required. Available in 20 great standard colours (unlimited range of factory tints upon request).
A balanced blend of premium raw materials to produce the highest quality marine grade enamel. For use on prepared steel, aluminium, concrete, timber and other surfaces where performance and durability is paramount. 22 Great Colours.
The ultimate high-build performance coating to obliterate background irregularities and provide filling properties prior to coating with single or 2-pack finishes. Suitable for areas of continuous immersion and osmosis repairs. Commonly used as a primer-undercoat and as a topcoat in the bilge areas of boats because of its satin gloss finish.
NORTHANE CLEAR: Northane is a food grade chemical resistant coating, perfect for bar tops, vanity units, co ee tables, benches & more. It comes in a crystal clear gloss or satin finish, plus a vast range of solid colours. This is the perfect finish over any epoxy System. Satin finish also available (interior use only). Sizes 500ml to 10 Litre.
STAYBOND GLUE: Easy to use 2 pack glue. Solventless and non staining with exceptional strength. Bonds to most prepared surfaces. Timber, metals, fibreglass, concrete, fibro, ceramics and glass. It is totally waterproof when cured. Excellent gap filling and non sagging characteristics.
NORFILL E POXY FILLER: A paste-like white, waterproof filler that can be sanded and left as a finish, or painted over. Norfill has excellent non-sagging properties so that even large cracks or holes can be filled in one application. Norfill is solventless and does not shrink, making it the perfect filler where strength and adhesion is important.
NORSEAL WOOD TREATMENT: A water clear epoxy solution designed to penetrate, seal and waterproof particle boards and timbers.
GLOSS & SATIN: A tough abrasion resistant gloss coating with high levels of U.V inhibitors for interior and exterior use. Ideal for floors, furniture and marine applications. Also available in satin finish for interiors to produce a natural lustre.
MICROSHIELD: A traditional marine spar varnish. Clear, low odour, high gloss urethane/alkyd blend with high levels of state of the art inhibitors and stabilizers for maximum exterior protection.
ORANGE PEEL: A citrus style paint stripping gel using the latest technologies in resins and additives for high performance.
GREY-AWAY: For restoring the natural colour of timber prior to clear coating. It can also be used for removing stains on fibreglass surfaces.
The curiously named 42-foot Catana catamaran, “Hwylio” [pronounced “hoylio”], a former charter yacht, has just departed Rivergate Marina & Shipyard after a 12-week refit stint, and is now cruising Sydney Harbour as a privately-owned vessel.
When Covid travel restrictions impacted international travel and the charter industry, owners, Gwilym and Emily, saw the opportunity to retrieve their catamaran from charter in Tahiti and upgrade her for their personal use in Sydney.
The seven-year-old vessel, named “Carmen” during its charter years, was showing signs of wear and tear. The couple had her shipped back to Australia and immediately taken to Rivergate for an overhaul. As Gwilym explains, “Rivergate was recommended by a contact in Tahiti and Christophe Vanek who operates Dream Yacht Charters in the Whitsundays. The boat arrived in Brisbane, making it extremely convenient to take it to Rivergate.”
Her name is a combination of “Hwyl”, a Welsh word for enthusiasm and passion, and “Hwylio” meaning sailing and wind.
“When our yacht arrived from Tahiti, the independent marine survey report we commissioned outlined a long list of work that needed to be undertaken. For us, the most important thing was ending up with a yacht that we were confident would be safe and sound at sea, and also refitted to feel more like our own yacht. We wanted to make sure we got it right the first time, and this is where the Rivergate team stepped in,” Gwilym explains.
Marty Johnson, one of Rivergate’s senior project managers, oversaw the project. “Due to Covid, there were two years when she was not operating, so there was a backlog of maintenance. After a surveyor inspected the yacht and identified critical items, we prioritised them with the owners and set to work,” he states.
The project involved an upgrade of the solar power, servicing of the main engines, new interior and exterior upholstery, rigging upgrades and a vinyl wrap, as well as new trampoline nets on the foredeck and electronic upgrades to the communications and navigation gear.
On-site marine trades involved in the various aspects of the work included M2i Electrical, Goodline Trim, Planet Wrap, Baddiley Marine Engineering and Wright Marine, as well as several contractors drawn from around the region.
“We wanted the yacht to suit our needs. We installed new solar panels and lithium batteries, removed the gas cooker, making it all electric so we’re completely self-sufficient at sea. It’s our plan to sail from Sydney to the Whitsundays, explore the east coast and eventually circumnavigate Australia one day. Marty took the time to understand what we wanted to achieve, and our expectations of desired outcomes as he helped us understand the potential costs of different options available to us. He also helped us prioritise what was urgent. If it was something that we might be able to do ourselves, then Marty gave us guidance on how to do it, and they even lent us the tools,” says Gwilym.
Needless to say, Gwilym and Emily say they are “over the moon” with the results.
They held a naming ceremony at Rivergate – a casual barbeque with contractors and marine trades – and declared “Hwylio” officially launched.
From Brisbane, they sailed to Trial Bay and then on to Sydney, enjoying perfect conditions for Hwylio’s shakedown voyage.
“Being a catamaran, it’s very stable and sturdy. We were drinking coffee and champagne without a spill. At 42-feet, she’s very comfy and a good size for a couple, with plenty of room for visitors. We can have up to eight people on board,” says Gwilym
“The team at Rivergate has really given our yacht a new lease on life. The trust we ended up building because of the quality of workmanship, completed on time, was enormous. By the end of the project, we really felt like the Rivergate crew was a family that we could return to for support at any time.”
More at www.rivergate.com.au
ABOUT RIVERGATE MARINA AND SHIPYARD: Rivergate Marina and Shipyard is a family-owned business located on the Brisbane River on the east coast of Australia with deep water access and close to the superyacht cruising grounds of the Great Barrier Reef and Pacific Islands. Established in 2006, Rivergate is recognised in the industry as one of the top 3 superyacht refit facilities in the world. It features 300-tonne and 75-tonne travel lifts, 55-metre refit shed, hardstand, berthing for vessels up to 90 metres, 24-hour fuel wharf and more than 20 world-cl ass marine trades.
Now based at Rose Bay, Hwylio will soon cruise to the Whitsundays and drop in to Rivergate for provisions, fuel and any maintenance.
Exclusive Australian dealers for the Absolute Yachts shipyard, The Yacht Sales Co, announces the launch of the 60 FLY. This new model is called “The Absolute Prisma” and is set to redefine the range with new ground-breaking design elements never seen on a flybridge boat of these dimensions, such as the owner’s quarter at the bow and the aft cockpit terrace that are free from any fixed furniture elements. With the new Absolute 60 FLY, a versatile life on board and liveability of the spaces are now ensured.
In the owner’s quarter the atmosphere is sophisticated and relaxed, dedicated to the owner’s comfort and privacy: the walk-in wardrobe, the vanity with a sea view, and the wide side windows to feel fully immersed in nature complete the ambience.
The exterior lines are now enriched by elegant transparencies, thanks to the glazed balustrades that offer breath-taking views from both the fly and the cockpit: the latter, though without fixed elements, can be furnished to the owner’s taste.
From the aft cockpit there are two comfortable staircases, ideal to reach the wide platform to enjoy a terrace just above the sea; the ample dimensions of the platform offer a comfortable entrance to the crew cabin, through the pantograph door concealed in the transom.
On the upper deck, the Fly area offers a second open-air saloon totally immersed in the surrounding landscape, whose generous dimensions are just waiting to be lived: alfresco galley and dining area, lounge space, hightech helm station, are framed by elegant design lines, colour contrasts and refined finishes.
Even the bow area is designed for maximum versatility of use thanks to a comfortable sofa with table, a sunbathing area, and music: social boating and privacy, all in one, day and night.
The Absolute 60 FLY boasts the latest generation technology, featured in modern and ultra-accessorized dashboards, with clear instrumentation always at your fingertips. Both helm stations on the main deck and flybridge have double piloting seats, ergonomic and modern. From the main deck dashboard, a very wide windscreen, with minimized and rounded side support pillars, guarantees an unobstructed view of the horizon.
Even on the flybridge, a safe navigation topped with conviviality is ensured, thanks to the sofa and sundeck placed next to the helm, allowing the captain to drive with company. A third mooring station is also available at the stern, which can be integrated in a dedicated cabinet in the cockpit on starboard side, equipped with joystick, bow thruster control and engines ignition panel.
The green attitude of the shipyard proves itself thanks to the opportunity of integrating the solar panels into the hard-top to ensure a lower environmental impact. Moored at anchor, the owner can enjoy the silence completely immersed in nature, by using solar energy to operate the essential services on board, without the continuous use of generators.
Further information can be obtained by contacting The Yacht Sales Co on (07) 5452 5164 or by emailing info@yachtsalesco.com
consisting of an electrically powered propulsion unit, a remote box and a joystick for more intuitive operation. Electric motors provide a new dimension to your enjoyment of the water, being quiet enough that you can live the sounds of nature fully and undisturbed.
F or more than 60 years, Yamaha Motor Company has been at the forefront of engineering breakthroughs and technological developments within the marine industry. Yamaha Motor takes another step forward in electric marine propulsion:
Drives this is an important milestone in the company’s and the industry’s journey to a more sustainable future. The accelerating interest to smart mobility and a changing mindset globally is fuelling the evolution towards more and “greener” alternatives.
HARMO is a brand new integrated electric propulsion unit and steering control system. Featuring the brand’s signature engineering excellence and innovation, this next-generation control system platform demonstrates new capabilities in a market rarely impacted by such forward thinking electric technological improvements.
HARMO further opens up the possibility to be at one with nature on the water, offering an ultra-smooth experience, in both fresh and salt water, so you can truly be at peace with your surroundings.
It is an end-to-end smart technology package
The motor features rim drive technology for more efficient electric propulsion, when compared with a hub propellor of the same size. It is mounted around the outer edge of the propeller, allowing greater thrust at slower speeds when compared with traditional equivalents. As such, compared to standard Electric Drives, HARMO can be used to power larger boats (tested on vessels up to 21 feet in length) with lower power consumption, combined with the added benefit of reducing vibration and noise, moving almost silently through the water, and providing a far more comfortable experience.
The steering offers smooth manoeuvres and sharp, responsive on-the-spot turns thanks to a wide steering angle. The joystick control, based on the HelmMaster EX system traditionally only found on the Yamaha Premium and High-Power Outboard range, offers complete intuitive control and mastery of the boat with no effort, allowing you to enjoy your adventure without fretting about handling your craft.
HARMO is fitted in a very similar way to traditional outboards; via a transom bracket, and the unit has a tilt function to lift it clear of the water when not in use, or if a vessel requires beaching. Furthermore, the engine goes through the same stringent testing procedure as any other Yamaha Petrol Outboard, guaranteeing the signature quality of the Yamaha brand.
Built by the Italian boat builder Venmar, Respiro is the first vessel to be available with HARMO. Respiro itself is crafted from carbon fiber and mahogany creating a monolithic hull which is incredibly stiff and light at just 700kg gross weight. HARMO and Respiro create a perfect partnership, with HARMO embodying its namesake – harmony. This bond represents not only being one with nature and the environment technically, but also empowering the owner to enjoy a unique tranquillity on the water. It is not about the destination, the breathless fast-pace every day we live, or the practicalities of getting from A to B - it is all about the beauty of the journey.
HARMO is a steppingstone into the electric propulsion market for Yamaha Motor, building on previous successes in the marine and LEV sectors
and leveraging decades of experience to deliver something truly unique, a genuine breakthrough for customers to enjoy. Their application of cuttingedge engineering demonstrates the capabilities of such units in relevant marine applications, and has delivered a real game changer for the boat owner.
Yamaha's notable technological development bodes well for future contributions to this nascent but rapidly expanding market segment. There are no plans to distribute the product in Australia.
Marine electronics have made night passages so much easier than ever before, but how should you prepare for cruising after the sun sets? Here are 10 top tips.
You might have covered night cruising on your boat training, but the first time you set out in the dark as skipper it’s better this is a planned occasion, rather than being due to unforeseen delay or emergency. So make a plan for a passage that will specifically hone your skills.
Ensure you have your course laid, waypoints entered and any necessary references, such as tides, weather and radio channels, written down in your passage plan. If you use your mobile phone at the helm you might choose to duplicate your notes on there for easy reference.
Think about how you can make your plan less stressful. For example, never let your route get too close to unlit buoys and rocks. Choose deeper water if possible to reduce the likelihood of encountering fishing gear. Cross busy shipping routes at 90-degrees even if unregulated, to minimise the time you will be placed in potential conflict. On faster boats, consider running at a slower speed than usual. Even at even 20 knots, you cover 10.3 metres (33ft) every second, so you will significantly improve your chances to respond to issues the slower you go, even if it takes longer. For very early morning departures, you can run a hybrid plan leaving at a slow speed and anticipating the opportunity to run faster from around an hour before sunrise.
To greatly aid your night passage, pick a night with at least a half moon and clear sky. Depending on your latitude it can also be worth opting for the weeks around the longest day when the number of very dark hours is minimised. You’ll be surprised how much residual light remains for much of the night in high summer if you have never got afloat away from land before.
Make sure your night vision is preserved by checking sources of glare in the days before departure. Understand the dimming function of marine electronics
so you can easily set them to a low glow when it gets dark. Check to see if you are getting any distracting reflections off the windscreen. Navigation lights on leisure boats often reflect back off white superstructure and deck rails, so check if this is an issue a few days before your planned departure. Don’t be tempted to try to reduce power of navigation lights or block their horizontal output in any way as they have to comply with the Collision Regulations that govern all boats at sea. However you might be able to shield stray glare or temporarily tape the inside of rails with black tape. Fenders in foredeck baskets can be another distraction, so secure them aft somewhere safe at night if possible.
Always check navigation lights and all systems are working correctly well before departure. You wouldn’t believe the number of night passages that have had to be cancelled simply through the lack of a replacement bulb if one is defective. So, unless your boat has approved LED nav lights, then ensure you carry the right spares, noting that the bulb type might be different for port and starboard lights compared to steaming, anchor and stern lights.
Prep useful items for your passage so that you can reach them easily. A small waterproof torch is an excellent idea, as are some ready snacks and drinks to save you having to delve around your galley in the dark. It’s likely to get cooler when you get away from the shoreline so pop extra layers of clothing in a place you can grab them. Also ensure all your safety kit is readily to hand.
Everyone has an opinion on exactly when lifejackets should be worn. Whatever your usual daytime decision, it is sensible to enforce the use of lifejackets when on deck at night. Ensure all your lifejackets have dedicated signal lights that are in-date. Remind your crew to be extra careful when on deck.
Refresh your knowledge of the navigation and signal lights you will see vessels displaying at night. Be prepared for some distraction from the deck lights on trawlers and passenger vessels – it can be very hard to spot navigation lights against the glare of other light sources. Your perspective of distance at night can be quite confusing; expect that some lights will visually seem further away or closer than the radar or chart plotter is suggesting.
With satellite navigation, radar and detailed electronic chart plotters it’s tempting to ignore the light characteristics of buoys, but again ensure you understand navigation mark light characteristics displayed on the chart and make a point of crossreferencing your indicated position with what you can see by eye. Be aware that lights ashore can unexpectedly add to the difficulty of seeing navigation marks and even large objects like harbour walls. As strange as it sounds, a good pair of 7x50 binoculars will assist night watch keeping.
To learn more or to request a SIMRAD installation, contact www.aseamarine.com.au
W hen you hear the phrase ‘floating hotel suite’ you may visualise a luxuriously appointed cabin on board a massive cruise ship lazily drifting around the Pacific Ocean.
And that may well have been the case at one time. But no longer. Sure, the cruise ship industry is making a comeback after a COVID hiatus spanning a couple of years, but there are new meanings being given to ‘floating hotel suite’.
Enter the French-designed and manufactured Anthenea Suite. Advertised as ‘the smart floating space’ - and resembling something from outer space - the appearance of the Anthenea Suite resembles a legendary flying saucer, except this vessel is sea-going.
Yes, this hotel suite has been certified as seaworthy, so it is possible to sail around and drop anchor wherever you find a suitable location. In keeping with Anthenea’s eco-responsible design principles you will not be disturbing the marine environment while underway. This vessel will travel silently using its electric motors, so there will be no noise pollution or nasty fuel leakage or odours. and private clients.
Looking for a ordable, secure, o street storage for your boat? The benefits of our dry storage really stack up. Call today to find out more or book a complimentary tour of our award winning facility.
Story by Andrew Bedggood
L ike so many things, the 2021 debut of the Sunseeker Manhattan 55 was overshadowed by the pandemic. Sunseeker East Coast are showcasing the Manhattan 55 and giving you 5 reasons to love the Sunseeker Manhattan 55. With two new Manhattan 55s arriving in Australia within the next 6 months, it’s time to get familiar!
Carbon fibre and stainless-steel elements sure make the model easy on the eyes, but there’s more to Sunseeker Manhattan 55 than just good looks. The cockpit is pure joy, intelligently innovative – the galley is left in the saloon and only separated from the cockpit by a glass panel that can be lowered by pressing a single button, turning this area into a little bar with two bar seats. This popular part of the interior thus becomes even more useful, especially since the builders have included a small wine cooler, making this the perfect spot for an al fresco breakfast or a cooling glass of wine at sunset.
Front left in the salon there is a U-shaped sofa served by a dining table that seats six, and behind the skipper’s seat there’s more seating space. The command post has two seats and two multifunctional screens, all commands and a joystick. The saloon is well lit by natural light, as well as by strategically spaced LED lights that add to the overall mood and come in two color schemes. Carefully selected fabrics and materials, as well as four types of wood – satin wenge, silver oak, smoked eucalyptus and walnut – give the new Sunseeker Manhattan 55 a hefty dose of luxury.
The new Sunseeker has three lovely cabins, with the full-beam master aft. The VIP is in the bow, and the third cabin is a double, starboard. The luxurious interior is well balanced by the equally impressive exterior.
On the vast hardtop flybridge, forward, there is a large sunpad and the command post opposite the helm has ample seating and behind the wetbar with fridge, icemaker, sink and optional grill, while aft there is the large dining table.
The submersible hydraulic platform aft, along with the transom beach club, make it easy to enjoy summer water sports, making this an outstanding part of the deck, while another is the bow sunpad and dining area.
Powered by Volvo Penta D13-800 engines, the Manhattan 55 can cruise comfortably at 25 knots with a range of 230 nautical miles or achieve in excess of 30 knots at full throttle.
The Manhattan 55 is truly remarkable in so many ways – with an exterior profile that achieves the perfect balance between style, function and form; it just doesn’t get any better. Its beautifully
proportioned lines are reflected in its striking hull glazing that echoes a modern design aesthetic complimented by carbon fibre air intakes, practical, lightweight and dynamic.
The Manhattan 55 features its own Beach Club and extended bathing platform, a fabulous feature on a Sunseeker boat of this size. The full-beam hydraulic platform benefits from an integrated overhead shower, optional barbeque, and fold-down transom seating for owner and guests to enjoy.
The exciting Flybridge boasts generous dining and sunbathing capacity. The spacious dining area comfortably sits upto six people, complete with a bimini or fixed hardtop with retractable sunroof, depending on owner preference. Additional features include a wet bar, surround sound speakers, and further seating at the helm and bow. Perfect for intimate gatherings or spectacular celebrations.
The Manhattan 55 enjoys a next-generation Volvo Penta D13 800 engine. As a result, the boat runs smoothly at a cruising speed of 25 knots, even with the added weight of owner equipment and
With over 90 marine businesses onsite, you’ve found the perfect place for all your maintenance, repair and refit needs. No matter how large or small, simple or complex the job, our trades are the best in the business. That’s why we’re Australia’s most highly awarded marina and shipyard. Call today for an obligation free quote for your boat.
toys. The Manhattan 55 becomes an agile force on the water, providing efficiency and flexibility to meet owner requirements, wherever they cruise.
The next generation of Manhattan boats house significant updates to the interior. Excelling in areas of practicality, finish, and detail, the Manhattan 55 enjoys striking feature lighting, smart storage solutions both on-deck and inside, an ingenious space-maximising design layout, and fully customisable furniture selections to suit owner needs. Everything from plumped cushions sat atop luxurious bed linens to hand-stitched upholstery offer an abundance of comfort on-board.
With the option to add bar stools, the galley appears to extend onto the main deck, ready for the owner to enjoy a cocktail shaken or stirred. A seamless transition from indoors to out, the Manhattan 55’s considered design provides the owner with flexibility to use their yacht however they wish.
For more information, contact Sunseeker info@sunseeker.com.au
The highly awarded Parker Monaco 110 Fly is available in Australia, offering families way more for their money than the standard 11-metre cruiser.
At 11.2-metres (33-feet), the latest addition to the Parker range of sports cruisers in collaboration with the acclaimed designer, Tony Castro, is destined to make an impression in the family market for its features and value for money. Winner of the prestigious 2018 Best of Boats Awards in the category ‘Best for Family’, the Parker Monaco 110 is the largest of a series of sporty, high-performance outboard boats from the innovative Polish brand.
Made using Twin Step Infusion technology (TSI), the Parker boat hull distinguishes them from the competition. This innovative technology involves vacuum infusion during moulding, vinyl ester, sandwich cores, and multiaxial reinforcement to save weight, increase stiffness, and improve comfort. The hull features two steps to reduce friction, planing threshold and consumption, and also to enhance acceleration and increase top speeds by as much as 15 percent.
In Europe, the Parker range is the choice of water police and marine biologists undertaking research expeditions. They are known as ‘big small boats’ because of their spacious cockpits, clever convertible seating and myriad features that make them the perfect boat for a day, or a weekend on the water.”
The flagship of the Parker range, the Monaco 110 Fly is positioned as a versatile all-rounder with “space and pace” to please everybody and the latest outboard designs that deliver proven efficiency, performance and lighter weight than their inboard competitors.
Raising the outboards allows the props and legs to clear the water, reducing the need to antifoul them and reducing maintenance costs. Among the profusion of family-friendly features is the unique sunbed arrangement that covers the outboard engines, providing practical leisure space and attenuating noise for guests while underway. The seat/sunbed slides aft, thus increasing the cockpit area, and forward when you need to tilt up the engines.
On deck, guests can spread out over a large seating area with a drinks-cooler fridge accessible from the cockpit, flowing into the saloon and galley, with a wellequipped kitchen and dinette with seating for up to six people. The large foredeck is a great place to relax, with convertible sunpads/lounges.
Inside, the Parker Monaco 110 boasts the equivalent layout of any classic inboard boat and huge advantages in some respects. Glazing plays a huge role in creating the feeling of space and connection to the water. A sliding glass roof and another sliding canvas skylight over the cockpit area add to the open feel.
Other notable features are the helm side door for optimal vision and convenient access to the wide walkaround decks, and the topside door for easy boarding onto the boat from a marina berth.
Accessed by companionway are two good-sized cabins, the master in the bow which has plenty of headroom, storage and large wraparound windows, and the second double bedroom which would equally suit adults or kids. Adjacent is the bathroom with separate full-size shower, WC and vanity, as well as the characteristic windows for views and ventilation.
A wide range of outboard engines is available, typically a pair of 150 hp or 300 hp for sparkling speeds and a comprehensive list of additional equipment. The power options are completely up to you. While twin 150s are a popular choice, those keen on their watersports can double that with a twin 300hp set-up.
The list of optional extras is just as compelling, and owners are able to customise many aspects of their Parker Monaco 110 Fly to suit their preferences.
Overall, Parker Monaco 110 Fly has a very sleek modern design, practical and functional for a price that will surprise and delight you. The Parker Monaco 110 Fly will impress Aussie boaties looking for a sports cruiser with the lot.
For info. Ph: 0414 252 254 nautilusaustralia.com.au
The Neel 43 is the latest evolution of this French builder’s trimaran range and the first of the brand to reach our shores, so two good reasons to go for a sail. Trimarans rule the oceans when it comes to offshore speed records but in the cruising world they are much less distinguished. In the past, often epitomised by older more eccentric designs that perhaps required the more eccentric sailor. This image is one that Eric Bruneel has been steadily changing in the yard he established in 2010. The La Rochelle yard builds the Neel 47, 51, 65 and now the new 43. Eric says, ”When we start looking at smaller yachts the amount of gear that some cruising people wish to have aboard becomes a bigger issue relative to total displacement. As with any multihull, weight aboard is a critical part of the equation but we believe we have found a good ability to carry this weight and still have our owners enjoy great performance. ”
As of March 2022, hull number eight has been imported by Australian dealer Multihull Solutions and its Neel specialist Andrew De Bruin.
CONSIDER A TRIMARAN - The centralised weight of the Neel 43 allows it to operate in wider wind ranges than similar catamarans, as the trimarans typically can heel to about 10-20°, however the Neel 43 heels about 8° and with 25ft beam the stability is immense. You can expect cruising speeds of around 10kts, allowing impressive 200nm days, of course these figures will vary substantially with adverse swells.
Knowing what you want helps when going shopping, so choosing the Neel 43 is for those seeking performance cruising with a meaningful helming experience. Neel are very aware of weight efficiencies, and this is reflected in the modest 9,000 kg displacement of the Neel 43 – which is several tons lighter than its catamaran competitors. Simply put, Bruneel liked crossing oceans but didn’t want to spend too much time actually doing it.
INTERNAL SPACE - Stepping aboard via the wide ama steps then into the cockpit reveals a wide, open-plan approach that Marc Lombard has created for the 43. There is a spacious L-shaped dining area and a double bench facing aft. Integrating with the saloon, this space that Bruneel dubs the ‘Cockloon’ is fully shaded by a hardtop bimini and can seat 10 guests around the inside-outside tables.
For the saloon, sturdy double sliding doors seal it off and deep scuppers shed any water. There’s also a transom based wet bar and grill, so ideal for keeping the fumes out of the boat. For the dinghy, a clever idea of using the boom with topping lift and electric winch as a davit sets the dinghy safely across the hull. Adjoining the cockpit, with three steps up, is the single helm station on starboard; which can also be accessed from the deck.
The saloon has three double berths and a longitudinal galley with the bathroom/shower beside the outside doors – so ideally placed for cockpit guests. What this layout creates is a really liveable saloon space, with L-shaped dinette handily placed opposite the galley. Also functional is the navigation station in the forward port quarter, allowing steering by autopilot, should you choose to. Good natural light comes from tall windows all round and a small opening skylight.
FLEXIBLE SAILPLAN - The Neel 43 has an extensive sail plan, so ideal for the varied conditions often found while bluewater voyaging. Our review boat came with the upgraded taller carbon spars and Dyform wire shrouds, enhancing light air performance and reducing weight aloft.
This also allowed three reefs in the fully battened Incidences Dacron mainsail. A large foretriangle allows for a large genoa and there’s good separation on the fibreglass bowsprit for the asymmetric, that is deployed via a sock.
The single starboard helm station allows vision across the hulls and is protected by a canvas bimini. Behind the large steering wheel (800mm) is a stainless framed double seat that gives support and handholds. The console controls included a Maxpower bow thruster and B&G electronics with autopilot near at hand and throttle outboard for the 50hp saildrive engine – which has a folding propeller. The second one is electric for halyard hoists. A simple thimble arrangement runs the genoa sheets. Overhead, a canvas bimini shields you but can be unzipped to view the mainsail via clear plastic. The mainsail is controlled by twin sheets running on transom mounted blocks to give good leverage on the boom and is easily accessible from the flybridge sunpad; plus there’s lazyjacks to gather the sailcloth.
Offering first-class marine facilities on Queensland’s Coral Coast, Bundaberg Port Marina is well placed with 180 top quality floating berths able to berth vessels up to 130ft. Each berth has power, water and Wi-Fi. Convenient 24/7 refuelling, modern amenities, courtesy bus, gift shop, coin-operated laundromat, public phones, LPG refills and ice are some of the facilities and services available to Marina guests. The complex also houses a fully-licensed restaurant, ships' chandlery, takeaway store, marine brokerage, and a booking office for the Lady Musgrave Experience Tours.
Bundaberg Port Marina is an official Port of Entry and receives more vessels into Australia than any other on the east coast. The marina offers an easy deep-water, all-weather entrance day or night and this is one the many factors that has contributed to an increasing influx of vessels each year to the Coral Coast. Our boat yard and ship lift facility has become one of the most recognised ship repair facilities on the east coast. The hardstand
and ship lift are considered first class, with a 75t ship lift enabling us to lift vessels with a maximum 6.6m beam, concrete hardstand area, high-pressure cleaning service, fully-enclosed paint shed and work bays for sandblasting activities. The yard provides quality cradles and stands, professional staff and one of the largest dry storage yards on the east coast. The trade complex is accessible from the working yard and has many associated tradesmen available for on-site repairs. Owners are welcome to complete as little or as much work on their vessels as suits, it is totally up to the individual.
Recreational and commercial operators from all over Australia and the World trust us to store their vessels in our dry storage facility when the time comes to return home. The dry storage area is fully fenced and we can complete all vessel checks whilst you are away from your vessel. As a testimonial for the care taken of your vessel, many of our clients return season after season to leave their vessel in a safe and secure yard.
The Marina Office is open 7 days per week and provides a courtesy bus for transport into Bundaberg City Monday to Friday and to the Shalom Markets every Sunday. Port Marina Gifts is our beautiful gift store, located in the Marina Office. Pop in and check out our lovely range of resort wear, handbags, beach bags, sarongs, Byron Bay Candles and diffusers, nautical and beach giftware, souvenirs, and the world-famous Maui Jim Sunglasses.
A number of world-class tourist attractions are located in Bundaberg and these include: Bundaberg Rum Distillery Tours, Mon Repos Turtle Sanctuary Tours, Bert Hinkler Aviation Museum, Botanical Gardens, and Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Factory.
All tours can be easily booked through Bundaberg Port Marina and provide an endless opportunity to enjoy our city and surrounds.
We look forward to meeting you all soon at Bundaberg Port Marina. bundabergportmarina.com.au
YYachts goal is to build sailing yachts that give you time for yourself as well as freedom and fun with your family and friends – a reliable investment in a better quality of life.
In 2015, Michael Schmidt decided to found a new shipyard after an already intense career in the yachting industry. He wanted to build sailing yachts, drawing on experience and his heart – without restrictions from marketing ideas and specifications.
His vision was to produce yachts between 60 and 100 feet in length, because in this category the owners and clients speak directly to the shipyard and already have a vision of how their next yacht should look and be equipped. When building the shipyard, Schmidt was also fascinated by digitalisation, so that even in the startup phase, he gave a lot of thought to what would have to change when building yachts in a digitised world. Michael Schmidt is constantly expanding the strategy of YYachts and works with highly specialised teams on disruptive processes.
Michael decided to establish YYachts to make available to people his unique sailing proposition and his “concept of freedom”, clearing the boat from all the unnecessary riggings, ropes and over-structures to have a clear and minimalist deck. In such a way the owner can taste the design, the simplicity and the performance of the boat.
“Sailing is fun and it’s made possible by a simple boat that has been reduced to the bare essentials without sacrificing comfort. A YYacht has to run at a reasonable speed for us even in the lightest wind without having to start the engine. Once you have experienced this, you do not want to sail on any other ship,” says Michael.
With Lorenzo Argento of Brenta Design and Sir David Chipperfield, he found sailors with the same passion; Argento for the construction and Chipperfield for interior and design. 2014 was the birth of YYachts with the project of Cool Breeze.
Lightweight yachts reduce the operating forces and manage with smaller engines. If required, hybrid drives or energy recovery systems are installed that reduce primary energy demand. Responsiveness is as important to YYachts as the construction of the yacht itself.
Peter Hrones, Eyachts MD has been sailing for 45 years and selling yachts for 30+ years.
Peter met Michael in the late 90s. “He always had a great vision for what he wanted to produce,
being a great sailor himself, he’s been able to create a niche that possibly wasn’t even there before. The thing I learnt most from Michael was keeping the construction, the build and the sailing simple,” said Peter.
In Peter’s eyes, when building boats over 70ft YYachts is remarkable for keeping the weight down in order to keep them sailing fast. For example, the Y7 is under 30 tonnes where competitors are 40-60 tonnes or even more. This combined with the Y7‘s 300 sqm of sail area is what makes these yachts so unbelievable and gives it the edge to be able to sail in light wind.
All the designers involved are fantastic. What sets the range apart is the interior design which is minimalistic and detail-oriented, winning the Wallpaper Design Award 2020. Above deck, the layout is clean, flows easily and it’s a boat that’s easy to sail 1 or 2 up.
Peter explains, “Simplicity is the keyword here, we only take on brands without unnecessary gadgets and moving parts that may have issues. We want our customers to be out enjoying the world, winning regattas and loving their boat and not having warranty issues. This is one of the other reasons we have taken on EyachtsYYachts.”entire
team comes from a sailing background. To find out more about the YYachts go to www.eyachts.com.au or contact boats@eyachts.com.au
Michael Schmidt YYachts Founder PeterCygnet 20 starts from $66,000.00 plus
Become a part of our Gaff Association and join in for short, fun races, pretty anchorages, and sharing stories and adventures with other Cygnet 20 owners … why wait? Join our newsletter at www.bluewatercruisingyachts.com
Trailer Sailing or Bluewater Passages? …. that is the question. Bluewater Cruising Yachts situated in Lake Macquarie, NSW can build you a new Cygnet 20, a beautiful trailer sailer that is light to tow, carbon fibre rig, water ballast, easy to sail, and sleeps 4 comfortably. If you like the idea of day sailing and exploring inland rivers and waterways, this little beauty is the yacht for you.…what’s not to love? There are 11 Cygnet 20’s sold into the Gold Goast, Brisbane & Sunshine Coast areas so far, and we want to see those numbers grow.
And for the more adventurous we have the Bluewater 420, a true ocean going yacht with an AVS of 135° This Bluewater yacht is designed to make those ocean sea miles with confidence, safely and comfortably.
Bluewater 420
Raised Saloon Version
Starts from $746,750.00 plus GST
Centre Cockpit Version Starts from $762,400.00 plus GST email david@bluewatercruisingyachts.com
G ladstone Marina is the ideal base to explore the Bunker Group of Islands on the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Gladstone is ideally located just an hour’s flight from Brisbane, with Gladstone Marina’s luxury courtesy bus on hand for seamless Gladstone Airport transfers. Berth your vessel in a safe and secure marina and fly in for weekends on the reef, or, if you’re just cruising through, Gladstone Marina is perfectly positioned to refresh and reprovision while you explore further.
This modern, first-class marina facility has been recently upgraded. With revitalised surroundings and amenities, including a new dedicated BBQ area, Gladstone Marina is designed to help you refresh, relax and explore the secluded anchorages, tropical islands and pristine coral reefs in our region.
The Capricorn Bunker Group of islands and reefs is the perfect and accessible introduction to the Great Barrier Reef. Cruising this section of the Southern Great Barrier Reef is an unforgettable experience and offers exceptional reef viewing, cruising, snorkelling and diving. The Southern Great Barrier Reef is rich in sea life, coral and scenery. Navigation through the Capricorn Bunker Group can be effortless as most of the reefs have islands and wide channels between them.
Lady Musgrave Island is instantly recognisable, with a large coral lagoon with deep water access. This tropical paradise and sheltered lagoon provides a safe anchorage and abounds with masses of fish, coral and turtles. Keep a look out for coral bommies when navigating in the lagoon, but with clear tropical water, spotting and avoiding them is easy and of course they are all marked on navigational charts. Lady Musgrave is the jewel in the crown of the Southern Great Barrier Reef and a very popular destination of choice.
Fitzroy Reef is another stunning lagoon with a deep water entrance, but without a land mass. Deep anchorage on the southwest corner will protect from a north easterly and a north westerly wind. The deep water entrance is marked clearly for a good anchorage inside the lagoon. There is excellent fishing in the area.
Adjacent to Heron Island, Wistari Reef is an elevated lagoon, which is shallow and crammed with coral. The best dive site on this reef is the brilliant Wistari Wall. This sloping wall drops from three metres to 20 metres and is decorated with many striking corals. There is also excellent reef walking and snorkelling. There is shelter in the lee of the reef for anchorage.
Mast Head Island is a beautiful and accessible coral island close to Irving Reef, Polmaise Reef and Erskine Island. It is located just 31NM northeast of Gladstone. Boaters can shelter in the lee of the island to anchor in SE to NE winds. The island is popular with campers and daytrippers due to its close proximity to Gladstone. Camping on the island requires a permit.
North West Island is a hidden gem of the Southern Great Barrier Reef and only 40NM northeast of Gladstone. It is the second largest coral cay in the area and offers opportunities for camping, bushwalking, nature study, reef walking, diving and snorkelling. Camping on the island requires a permit.
This is just a small selection of the islands and reefs in close proximity to Gladstone. Consult your charts and weather forecast and explore the numerous reefs and islands in the area at your leisure.
Contact Gladstone Marina 07 4976 1399 for advice on cruising in the area or help with planning your passage. The Marina team are all fully qualified local mariners and are passionate about the region. Whether it’s assistance in navigating the Narrows (which links Gladstone Harbour to The Keppel’s) or planning overnight stays in the harbour or on the reef, the Gladstone Marina team is on hand to help.
Refresh. Relax. Expl ore. Visit gpcl.com.au
surpasses all others in her class with the remarkable range of living spaces onboard and features the major innovations of the Dufour 470, including a bowsprit platform, generous cockpit, ergonomic layout, and expansive deck hatches and windows.
The Dufour 37 affords superb performance in all conditions with a modern, stable hull that evokes the lines of offshore racing yachts, yet her slightly rounded lower hull delivers smooth passage and sound reduction inside. This new hull form allows
for a greater power/weight ratio and improved handling at all points of sail. Her lengthened mast provides an increased sail area for even more powerful performance.
Available in two and three-cabin versions, the yacht boasts excellent interior light courtesy of the large central hull windows. Optimised volumes enable the Dufour 37 to offer a forward owner’s cabin that enjoys outstanding headroom and unprecedented levels of space and comfort for a yacht of this size.
The yacht’s hull has been constructed using the infusion process resulting in carefully controlled weight, greater strength and environmental sustainability. Like her predecessor, the Dufour 360, the new model features a single rudder and twin steering wheels for enhanced liveliness and responsiveness underway.
As with the latest Dufour models, the new Dufour 37 is comprehensively equipped with features including a plancha grill, fully inflatable cockpit upholstery and a forward sunbathing area.
Further information on the new Dufour 37 or any of the Dufour range can be arranged by contacting exclusive Asia Pacific agents
The Yacht Sales Co on (07) 5452 5164 or by emailing info@yachtsalesco.com.
Dufour Yachts has announced the release of its latest model, the Dufour 37, which was unveiled at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival in TheSeptember.Dufour37
