Boating Business April 2023

BRITISH LEISURE MARINE BOOM BEING ERODED BY HIGH INFLATION

British Marine has released its latest economic audit of the UK leisure marine industry and it was good news up until the cost of living crisis hit.

The organisation’s Key Performance Indicators (KPI) report for the 2021/22 financial year, reveals that the marine industry enjoyed a successful post pandemic bounce back.

“Overall, the report is reassuring however we must remain mindful that these figures related to 2021/2022 and the impact of the current ‘cost of living’ crisis and the overall financial challenges affecting many UK businesses may well have a future impact on the sector,” said Lesley Robinson, CEO, British Marine.

Boom and bust?

One of the key findings of the report was that that the UK marine industry benefitted from revenue growth of 25% in 2021/22.

Total industry revenue was estimated at £4.23 billion – or 6.5% above its pre-pandemic level (2019/20 financial year).

UK marine exports made a strong recovery in 2021/22 growing 13% to £1.22 billion, powered by the sale of UKmade boats. Sailboat exports grew 40% to £116 million, rigid inflatables increased 48% to £30 million and overseas powerboat sales grew by 7% to £574 million.

With domestic demand powering industry growth, imports also saw a robust increase in 2021/22, growing 8% year-onyear. Sales in ther mian were driven up by rigid inflatables, up 66% to £39 million and outboard engines, up 40% to £22 million.

However economic events have changed rapidly since the end of the 2021/22 financial year, with high inflation and deteriorating consumer spending power eroding the boom.

UK consumer confidence sank to its lowest index score on record in October 2022 with both consumers and businesses hit by a cost of living crisis that has pushed the UK to the brink of recession.

British Marine said that whilst the marine industry has been resilient, generally outperforming the wider UK economy, it has not been immune to the financial challenges now affecting UK businesses.

The organisation’s latest sentiment survey (December 2022) indicates that the share of marine businesses seeing quarterly year-on-year sales growth, dropped from 52% in Q1 2022 to 29% in Q4 2022.

But despite the decline in sales growth over the last six months, marine business confidence has remained steady, with 49% of British Marine members reporting in December that they were still optimistic about their prospects going into 2023.

Round the world sailor rescued

Ian Herbert Jones, skipper in the Golden Globe Race (GGR), has been rescued from the southern Atlantic.

The Shropshire based sailor had suffered a back and head injury when his Tradewind 35 yacht Puffin was rolled and dismasted. Race authorities were alerted by Ian using a YB3 satellite tracking and texting device and with Ian unable to cut the mast free due to storm conditions, and also suffering water ingress into the yacht’s hull a rescue mission was put into place.

Three fishing vessels were diverted to Ian’s position along

with a British fisheries patrol boat which was later stood down. This was Puffin’s second circumnavigation – the first was in the GGR 2018.

After Ian’s rescue by one of the fishing vessels, the yacht was scuttled as she was a hazard to safety.

Ian had been in heavy weather with winds gusting up to 75 knots and an 8m sea. He had been unable to deploy his drogue or warps as the wind intensified.

The race started last September with 16 entrants and is approximately 30,000 miles around the globe.

Fitting Out Exterior

80th anniversary New choices

8 The British leisure marine industry enjoyed a boom post-pandemic

SHAREHOLDING ACQUIRED IN MEGAYACHT BUILDER

KATINA READ | Editor kread@boatingbusiness.com

A mixed picture for the marine industry

For the past few weeks, the national news has been dominated by the cost-of-living crisis and public sector workers going on strike asking for pay rises.

And this month we heard how the British leisure marine boom is being eroded by high inflation.

For some months now, the leisure marine industry has been anticipating a reset after the boom that was experienced during the Covid pandemic and, in some sectors, it looks as if this is well underway.

The latest British Marine survey states the UK marine industry saw growth of around 25% in 2021/2022 however figures show UK consumer confidence sank to a new low last autumn and this shows no sign of improving.

Fewer marine companies are seeing year on year sales growth and with weakening consumer spending ending the revenue increases.

The report also showed that despite all the headwinds that the economy and the industry is facing, almost half of the businesses were optimistic about the 2023 season which while this has to be seen as positive, it must also be stated that almost a quarter of the businesses were pessimistic about the forthcoming year.

The optimistic feel is backed up with charter companies say they are seeing an increase in charter bookings with more first-time charterers coming into the market.

Companies involved in this sector say they are gearing up for their busiest summer ever with one charter company saying it has doubled the size of its charter management team because of demand.

Marine tourism has the potential to continue to grow, providing employment opportunities across the industry. This segment of the industry is vitally important, with the latest figures from Scotland alone showing an £84 million contribution to the economy from boating tourism. Demand for marina berthing is rising and there are plans to increase capacity by more than 1,000 berths over the coming years.

The figures come from a survey carried out on behalf of several boating and marine organisations and cast an encouraging light on the current boating situation.

However, the survey also pointed out that the existing infrastructure was not always up to the standard of that seen in mainland Europe and Scandinavia showing that investment is clearly needed in the UK in order to stay ahead of other destinations.

Globally the yacht charter market is anticipated to reach a value of US$ 12.12 billion by 2027 according to market research reports with the increase driven by a rising preference for personalised services in tourism activities and the belief that sailing is a sustainable activity.

It’s certainly one bright light in an otherwise mixed picture.

The sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has taken a 33% share in the Azimut|Benetti Group.

The investment is aimed at opening new strategic opportunities for the Group, supporting the boatbuilder’s growth plans.

Tamburi Investment Partner, TIP, which has been an investor in the Group for more than eight years, will remain with a reduced stake.

The Vitelli family will retain a majority stake.

“I confirm the satisfaction and pride of the family for having earned - as the most important megayacht building group in the world - the trust of one of the largest global sovereign wealth funds, already present in luxury, technology and leisure,” said Giovanna Vitelli, chair of Azimut|Benetti Group.

“PIF will accompany

Azimut|Benetti Group in the long term, offering strategic and important new business opportunities, including the Middle East, a geographic area which is undergoing strong development.” The transaction will be completed once regulatory checks have been carried out.

BOATBUILDER PREDICTED TO REACH PROFITABILITY IN 2024

Swedish technology company and boatbuilder, X Shore, has completed a SEK 300 million funding round.

Nordic asset management company SEB Investment Management AB has taken the role of lead investor in the funding round.

The funding round is also supported by existing and several new shareholders.

“The X Shore mission is a crucial one - to lead the transition to electric vessels, in the process of decarbonising an industry which must transition to net zero in our lifetime,” explained X Shore’s CEO Jenny Keisu.

“We are at a critical time for the planet, and companies like X Shore are all-important in helping heavy polluting industries achieve net zero.

“We are grateful for the support of the investment community, and I am excited for the future. We will be working closely with SEB Investment Management and all other stakeholders on our next chapter as the industry leader.”

X Shore will use the proceeds to scale its production and reach profitability – predicted for

8 SEB Investment Management AB has invested in X-Shore

2024. In addition, X Shore will use the proceeds to invest in its North American market operations, which accounted for the majority of 2022 sales.

The new X Shore 1 was launched in September 2022.

8 The sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia has invested in the Azimut|Benetti Group

A roadmap has been launched for the European boating industry aimed at increasing end-of-life boat recycling.

The plan, launched by the European Boating Industry (EBI), is based on a three-year process involving all public and private stakeholders, with the boating industry committing to phasing out unsustainable recycling practices and targets set for the period up until 2030.

The ‘Roadmap on the implementation of the circular economy for endof-life boats’ follows several dismantling and recycling schemes already set up in many European countries.

Estimates put the number of boats in European waters at more than 6.5 million, most of them smaller than 7.5m with a lifetime of around 50 years.

Projections put the number of boats reaching their end-of-life at more than 30,000 boats a year in the EU which would result

TARGETS SET FOR ENDOF-LIFE BOAT RECYCLING

BRIEFS Agreement

in around 23,1000 tons of end-of-life composite waste per year. Recreational and commercial marine make about 2-3% of the total composite use in Europe.

The industry, represented by EBI, commits to phasing out landfilling and energy recovery by 2030 and expanding the use of more

PROFIT UP 50% AT SANLORENZO

The Italian luxury yacht builder Sanlorenzo ended 2022 on a high with net profits up 45.4% compared with the previous year.

Revenue from the sale of new yachts was €740.7 million, up 26.4% compared to 2021 whilst EBITDA was up 36.3% at €129.6 million.

“We delivered a threeyear period of excellent results, which exceeded our own forecasts every year and saw a compound annual growth rate of 17.6%, a doubling of EBITDA, an increase of 310 basis points in the EBITDA margin, net profit almost tripled, over €100 million in cash generation, even with the distribution of dividends for about €31 million,” said chair and chief executive, Massimo Perotti.

Success also came with its three boat shows, which saw strong visitor numbers and significant interest in the company’s new models.

The chief executive has also unveiled the company’s upcoming plans for 2023 – 2025, with the focus on five key areas.

These encompass sustainability and technology, new model development, high value service offerings, a direct global coverage strategy and finally, an increase in production capacity and a supply chain partners takeover plan.

The forecast of the net financial position is between €185 million and €205 million and investments of €143 - €155 million are planned over the three-year period.

sustainable recycling solutions in coordination with other composite use industries, such as wind energy.

The roadmap gives recommendations to be implemented, including on financing, dismantling, transport, recycling, research and innovation.

8 A new plan has been put forward to aid the dismantling of end-of-life boats

It will be driven forward by a new EU Network on end-of-life boats with several countries indicating their interest in using it to develop their approach to end-of-life boats.

Barton Marine has announced a new partnership and distribution agreement with EELAT pte Ltd in Singapore. The Singapore sailing marketplace is expanding with dinghy sailing, cruising clubs and racing fleets. Singapore is used as a stop-over location for vessel repairs and refit due to its location in Southeast Asia alongside a competitive tax system. Barton has more than 35 marine distributors globally, along with expansion in industrial markets and growing the US market through their own satellite company, Barton US LLC. EELAT focusses on engineering and distribution to the marine and power generation industries.

Approval

SMOOTH SILENT CRUISING SOLUTIONS

S

Bristol City Council have approved plans for a new marina. The marina at Capricorn Quay will have space for 32 boats with washrooms together with space for wildlife habitats. It is expected to cost around £480,000 with West of England Combined Authority providing a grant towards the costs.

Crowdfunding

savvy navvy has closed its latest crowdfunding funding round having raised more than £1.3 million. The navigation app initially had a £600,000 target. This is the latest in a series of funding rounds –previously a total of £3m has been raised by more than 1,800 investors, including the founders of Kahoot.

BRIEFS

Four million Brunswick diverted more than four million tonnes of waste in 2022, from 12 of its zero-waste-to-landfill locations. Additional locations are on track to obtain the designation in 2023.

50th anniversary

MDL Marinas is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a series of activities in 2023. These include sponsoring the Marine Industry does the Isle of Wight charity bike ride. The ride will take place on 15 July 2023 with 50 members of the marine industry aiming to raise £50,000 for children’s charity Dreamflight by covering over 50 miles.

New owners

MDL Marinas has finalised the sale of its boatyard at Dartside Quay, Devon.

The agreement will see the expansion of the boatyard services on offer to MDL customers and the wider boating community. The new owners, who currently own and operate the nearby Dolphin Haven boatyard and berthing services are planning to invest in the site to bring new developments to extend the services on offer. Dartside Quay has space for more than 300 boats ashore in a sevenacre dry boat storage area that is serviced by a 65-tonne hoist operating from a purpose-built dock. There is also a 20-tonne trailer hoist operating from a slipway and various onsite marine tenants provide specialist boat repairs and maintenance services. There will be no changes to the tenants as on site.

FOILING TO GET ITS OWN STAGE

A new Foiling Technology Pavilion will be one of the new features of METSTRADE 2023.

The new pavilion is the result of a partnership between METSTRADE and The Foiling Organisation, the international association for the foiling industry and will provide a platform for manufacturers of foiling hardware and technology and to educate trade visitors.

“Foiling is changing the water mobility system,” said Luca Rizzotti, founder of The Foiling Organisation and founder and president of We Are Foiling events ecosystem.

“The decarbonisation targets set by the EU, the UN and the IMO, make foiling an almost obligatory choice for new leisure and commercial applications. The astonishing number of projects for the transport of people, goods and containers is there to prove it.”

Niels Klarenbeek, METSTRADE show director, added: “METSTRADE has been at the forefront of providing a significant knowledge platform to highlight the developments that will move our industry’s essential decarbonisation efforts from ambition to reality.

“It is a logical progression

for us to take a leading role in partnership with The Foiling Organisation to encourage the mainstream adoption of a technology that has such great potential to reduce energy consumption while increasing the pleasure of those who go afloat.”

Exhibitors so far include Caponnetto Hueber, Foil

Chemy and Vakaros. The Pavilion will also feature a knowledge stage for discussion on trending topics in the sector.

8 METSTRADE 2023 will take place from 15-17 November.

YACHT CHARTER BUSINESS RE-ACQUIRED

International yacht charter brokerage HELM has been re-acquired by its founders, Peter Harrison-Hill and Simon Morgan.

The transaction was led by specialist business advisory firm FRP.

The business was sold to Borrow a Boat in June 2021 with Peter and Simon continuing to work within the group.

The agreement gave HELM stability in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company saw almost 700 booked charters in 2022 and is on course for more than 1,000 charters to be booked for summer 2023.

“We have always placed our customers’ needs first and believe this is vital to our long-term success,” said Simon. “It was a key consideration in taking the company back and we remain committed to

being transparent with our customers while ensuring they have amazing yachting holidays.”

He added: “We’re excited for the future and are aiming for even more sustainable growth in 2023.

We’ve seen really high demand lately, and after posting record bookings in FY2022 and Q1 2023, we are very excited about what the future holds for HELM and all of our customers.”

Peter and Simon will

resume the day-to-day running of the company brand with existing charters remaining unaffected.

8 Foiling will have its own pavilion at METSTRADE 2023

8 The HELM team following the re-acquisition by former founders Peter Harrison-Hill and Simon Morgan

KMO Marine has signed an agreement to supply outboards to all of the UKSA’s training, support RIBs and keel boats.

The partnership will see KMO replacing half the fleet’s outboards in 2023, with 6hp Yamaha portable outboards, 30hp and 40hp Yamaha mid power outboards and 115hp Yamaha high power outboards. The remainder of the fleet will receive new Yamaha outboards in 2024.

“The UKSA does so much to encourage young people to enjoy sailing and on water activities, as well as inspire the next generation of the marine industry,” said Tom Wilson, MD and joint owner of KMO Marine. “We’re looking forward to working with the team over next couple of years to repower their fleet, ensuring they have reliable outboards and are ready for use by students and staff alike.”

The contract follows on from KMO opening a new Yamaha service centre at Hamble Yacht Services in Port Hamble.

Ancasta Group has acquired Cowes-based Spencer Rigging.

Spencer Rigging was established in 1958 and is LEEA accredited and ISO 9001 registered.

The company will continue to operate from the company’s existing rigging loft and the team will continue to be led by MD, Neil Brinsdon.

Spencer Rigging’s facility offers the capability to support a wide range of international projects, including the in-house manufacture of lifting systems for marine, commercial and construction industries.

“Spencer Rigging is a hugely respected name with a reputation built on trust and quality products produced by its skilled workforce, continuing the company ethos established by Harry Spencer over 65 years ago,”

OUTBOARD SUPPLY DEAL

Suspended sentence for speedboat skipper

A speedboat skipper who was driving too fast before a crash that fatally injured a passenger has escaped a prison sentence.

Michael Lawrence, 55, was cleared by a jury at Winchester Crown Court of manslaughter. Instead, he was convicted of failing to maintain a proper lookout and a safe speed before the crash that killed Emily Lewis, 15, in Southampton Water on 22 August 2020.

The 1,000sqft facility comprises a sales showroom and workshop. There is also a van workshop covering the south coast.

“We’ve been working closely with Yamaha since we took over the business

from Kevin Mole in 2021, and looking for ways for us to expand,” said Tom.

“We felt we could help Yamaha develop a stronger presence on the Hamble River, and with the new building at Hamble Yacht Services

opened a new

Centre at

available and Yamaha excited to come onboard with us, it seemed like too good an opportunity to miss.”

RIGGING COMPANY ACQUISITION

The owner of the RIB, Michael Howley, was found guilty of failing to put proper safety procedures in place. Both were given 18week prison sentences, suspended for two years, and ordered to complete 125 hours of community service and pay £1,000 of court costs.

The judge, Mr Justice Butcher, told Lawrence he had taken into account his remorse and years of service with the RNLI in the sentencing.

Emily had been on a ‘high thrills’ ride with her parents, sister and other passengers when the RIB hit a navigation buoy at a speed of 37 knots, throwing the passengers into the water. Emily suffered fatal injuries while several other passengers were seriously injured.

Previously on the ride, the RIB was said to have crossed the wake of a Red Falcon ferry five times.

said Nick Griffith, Ancasta Group MD.

“We’re delighted to be extending this reputation to further enhance Ancasta Group’s turnkey boat repair, maintenance and aftersales services

The company has completed sailing rigging projects from dinghies to ocean racers and also produces lifting and

architectural equipment for clients across commercial, MOD and construction industries, and carries out non-destructive and destructive testing. Rigging capabilities include wire swaging 1.5mm to 32mm wire, talurit swaging 1mm to 58mm, rod rigging -4 to -540. In-house production of lifting equipment includes

webbing (CE Marked), chain and wire slings.

The rigging loft joins Advanced Rigging and Hydraulics within the Group which will continue to operate from its base in Port Hamble. Both Advanced Rigging and Hydraulics and Spencer Rigging teams are set to expand.

Mark Ashley, defending Lawrence, of Blackfield, New Forest, said his client was ‘a good man who has made a mistake’ and was ‘deeply affected’ by the incident.

The court had previously heard that Seadogz had received three complaints from passengers suffering back injuries. One person injured during a ride in 2012 received a £300,000 payout.

8 KMO has

Yamaha Service

Hamble Point Marina

8 Spencer Rigging has been acquired by Ancasta Group

BRIEFS

Suitable

Flax is the most suitable natural plant fibre to be used as reinforcement in bio composite materials and can be used for various purposes such as drifting buoys and interior cabins, hatches and panels. That’s the finding from SeaBioComp, a European Interreg 2 Seas project, that has developed and tested several bio-based thermoplastic composite materials, for potential marine applications. The project’s aims are to reduce the use of fossilbased materials by developing durable bio-based composites with reduced CO₂ emissions and environmental impact on the marine ecosystem.

Production

Nordic based NAVIA Yachts is to begin production of inflatable boats aimed at the rental market.NAVIA says boat rental companies are struggling with the high cost of setting up and maintaining the electric boat fleets and has closed a €250,000 seed funding round to begin production of its boats. The team plans to raise a second funding round in Q1 2024 to begin production of the Navia 44, and to scale up production efforts into larger models.

Appointment

Seldén Mast has been appointed by Hadron Dinghies as the spar supplier to the Hadron H2 class. The company will supply the Hadron H2 class with its carbon S2 dinghy mast and oval B086 boom, initially supplying 24 masts per year to the class.

ELECTRIC PROPULSION AGREEMENT

A R Peachment has been appointed exclusive UK and Ireland distributor for the electric propulsion manufacturer, Combi Electric Propulsion Systems.

The company is based in Holland and was established more than 40 years ago, focussing on their local market supplying the rental boat sector.

Over the past 40 years, Combi Electric Propulsion Systems has developed a breadth of products; including inboard motors, outboards, fixed and steerable pods and a range of hybrid systems to suit many of today’s popular inboard diesel engines.

Combi products are developed in-house with

the brushless motors continuous rated.

The company avoids using plastic parts.

“We are very excited to Join up with Combi in the UK,” said Steve Aldridge, A R Peachment sales manager. “We have experience in the electric and hybrid sector already and look forward to using our experience while at the same time learning from combi’s experience which they have gained since they’re conception in 1979.

“The large suit of products they bring to the market gives us many new opportunities, allowing us to further support our customers with their electrification ‘green’ requirements.”

The partnership will enable Peachment to expand on its current environmental product range, including parallel and series hybrid drive systems.

“A R Peachment is very established in its field, with its roots being in the hire fleet sector and a passion in offering technical solutions makes it an ideal partner for Combi Electric Propulsion Systems,” said Peter Jager, Combi Electric Propulsion Systems owner.

THEPERSONBEHINDTHEFACE

Chris Clayton

How I got into this industry... I went to Bucklers Hard Boat Builders to help out for a few weeks whilst they had a change of MD. That was 32 years ago and I’m still waiting for a permanent contract.

Best advice I’ve ever received... my father said treat others the way you would like to be treated yourself. Common sense but sound advice. If you look after people, then they will look after you (mostly).

One thing the industry needs less of is...

old people like me! We need to reinvigorate the marine industry with a new army of youth. Let them challenge the old perceptions and dogma and freshen everything up. We should encourage irreverence and let loose the winds of change.

50 years' of boatbuilding

8 Oyster Yachts is celebrating 50 years of building yachts in 2023

Oyster Yachts is celebrating 50 years since the company was founded in 1973.

The boatbuilder now has more than 600 employees in the UK, USA and Europe and an order book that stretches to 2026.

The company was founded by Sir Richard Matthews who had a vision for an Oyster 34, a cruiser racer designed by Don Pye of Holman and Pye and built using local boatbuilders Landamores in Wroxham, Norfolk.

Most hated buzzword or workplace expression... this isn’t like any other business. This used to drive me apoplectic. I wish people who say this could say it to themselves and then look as bewildered as I did. It’s the ultimate excuse for failure.

Best place I’ve been… in 1999 I took part in Cycle Cuba, which was such an amazing experience. Cycling past fields of sugar cane trying to avoid huge potholes whilst high-fiving locals all under the watchful eyes of Che murals to the sound of son music. Magical.

Don't worry about... not fixing everything, you can only do your best. Nothing is perfect, we can only try to work hard to improve. Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better.

Favourite meal...

I love Indian food, but my Swiss mother was such a brilliant cook I used to enjoy everything she made, which

hasn’t gone unnoticed. Her spinach pie was to die for. One thing I couldn’t live without... music. The first and everlasting love of my life. I can’t sing, but I used to have a band during my college years, and I am constantly drumming my fingers, much to the annoyance of colleagues.

How I cope with stress... friends, music, film, long walks, travelling, reading when I find time, going to gigs, enjoying life whatever it brings.

Something about you that people might be surprised by... at the beginning of the century I spent some time working for my Swiss uncle who had a licence to trade in gold. I travelled several times to West Africa and met the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in Kumasi, Ghana.

Chris Clayton is MD at Seaward The Boat Development Co

In 1980, Sir Richard introduced the Oyster HP46, a yacht that featured Oyster’s deck saloon, which became a signature feature on all Oyster Yachts.

The range extended to include the Oyster 41, 43, 53 and 55 and later, working with yacht designer Stephen Jones, the Oyster SJ35.

The boatbuilder has continued to evolve with the founding of a brokerage arm followed by the start of a relationship with naval architect Rob Humphreys, a partnership that has seen 17 models designed.

The largest Oyster in the current fleet, the Oyster 885, was launched in 2010 and along with the Oyster 625, was the first to feature Oyster’s signature seascape windows and twin rudders.

And in 2021, the company introduced its 495 model with manufacturing taking place at Hythe.

Oyster yachts have now sailed more than 20 million sea miles with around 100 circumnavigations of the world carried out.

Other initiatives include the Oyster World Rally that was launched in 2013.

Lalizas UK has expanded its operations into a new warehouse.

Based in Southampton, the new logistics centre is intended to provide a platform to enhance the services provided to the UK market.

“Lalizas is continuously enhancing its logistics capabilities to offer integrated end-to-end solutions to customers worldwide,” said Stavros Lalizas, CEO of Lalizas Group. “The UK plays a critical role for the Lalizas global network.

“With Southampton’s proximity to the market, our new warehouse will provide agile and sustainable solutions, connecting and simplifying our customers supply chains.

“We will continue

A racing yacht was destroyed and sunk when its outboard engine caught fire.

Now, a Marine Casualty Investigation Board report is recommending racing yacht owners should ensure their auxiliary engines provide the necessary power for their craft to make a safe passage.

In addition, the MCIB says risks associated with refuelling outboards at sea need to be highlighted.

The Beneteau First Class 8 (FC8) yacht, Black Magic, was motor sailing using a 3hp outboard and mainsail, on route from Crosshaven, Co Cork to Kinsale Harbour for winter lay-up in December 2021.

The owner and skipper of the yacht the sole person onboard for the approximately 19-mile passage.

The report states that around 15 minutes after refuelling the outboard, the skipper saw flames coming from the outboard.

The fire rapidly spread to spare drums of petrol that were in the cockpit. The skipper, who was afraid he would be trapped if he went into the cabin if the petrol tanks exploded, went up to

UK DISTRIBUTOR EXPANDS WAREHOUSE BY 50%

to invest in the UK, contributing to Lalizas’ UK position as a global leading manufacturer of commercial and leisure marine products.”

The new warehouse has increasing the capacity of stock Lalizas UK can hold by 100%, and also allows for greater accessibility of products and efficiency in distribution.

There will be a focus on all Lalizas brands including, Lofrans, Maxpower, Lalizas, Arimar, Nuova Rade and Ocean Fenders.

OUTBOARD ENGINE FIRE CAUSES YACHT TO SINK

the bow area and made a MAYDAY distress call.

He was picked up by a fishing vessel, and the yacht, which was destroyed by the fire, sank.

The MCIB report states that the yacht had been bought by her new owner six months previously and had been raced in Cork Harbour.

The report concludes that the engine had not been serviced recently and was likely to have suffered a significant mechanical failure.

In addition, while achieving the speed necessary to deliver the yacht to its appointed destination on time, the engine was operating at the upper limits of its mechanical and power operating envelope and its sub-optimal capacity was a contributory factor to the loss of the yacht, together with spilled fuel from the refuelling operation.

The report states that 10hp is the recommended minimum horsepower for a yacht of Black Magic’s size.

BRIEFS Collaboration

A+T Instruments is collaborating with FaRo Processors to bring the latest technology to the A+T Big Format Displays (BFD). FaRo’s latest systems have evolved from those used in the America’s Cup and are also used on top level racing yachts such as TP52’s, J Class. The partnership is an example of using top-end race systems that can be merged with complementing technologies, said A+T.

Purchase

City Developments Limited (CDL) has completed the purchase of a central London marina for £395 million. St Katharine Docks was opened in 1828. The marina complex is on a 23acre freehold mixed-use estate fronting the River Thames and comprises more than 500,000sqf of Grade A office, F&B, retail and residential arranged across four main buildings and supporting ancillary spaces, including a marina with berths for up to 185 yachts. In 2011 the estate underwent a £69.5 million repositioning and refurbishment programme, which included enhancements to the buildings, the marina and the overall estate.

Detailing

Barrus has signed an exclusive UK and Ireland distribution agreement with a detailing and maintenance manufacturer. August Race, based in South Devon, manufactures a range of marine maintenance products suitable for a range of craft from RIBs to yachts and powerboats to stand up paddleboards.

8 Lalizas UK has expanded its logistics and warehousing space by 50%

Photo courtesy MCIB

8 Black Magic was consumed by black smoke. Inset: The yacht Black Magic caught fire and sank due to an outboard engine fire

Cardinal CdilSiSin

I wonder if there is any other dynamic quite like the leisure marine sector when it comes to relying on goodwill from companies to operate.

Not so much thinking of the experience and enthusiasm that many people freely give - that’s one of the greatest strengths we have as an industry - which by the way is not used, understood or appreciated enough by many people.

No, I am taking about the dark side the side which involves money or at times the lack of it…

It’s the kind of subject that no one likes to bring up, like the strange uncle coming for dinner. Maybe it’s the nature of us Brits, not wanting to rock the boat. Maybe also as individuals it’s difficult to get a handle on if it’s just you who is not being paid?

Many people now are becoming desperate with how the system works and more than one has compared working in the industry to feeling similar to being a football fan.

Supporters come and go like a tornado, with their spark of promise extinguished as the energy dissipates, but the tormented fans stay through thick and thin, grimly hoping for better times and the glory. But is this how it is and how it should always be?

We have many brilliant specialists, the companies focused on providing good quality products and services to at times difficult moving targets. They take the view that in the end they are so entwined that they must carry on. But effectively they become the bank of last resort (without the banking charges of course).

How mentally wearing is this? Just look into the eyes of those fans and see.

Perhaps we need to push for a hug a supplier day?

The superyacht industry is flying blind with insufficient data on sustainability available.

That’s the message from the superyacht refit, repair and maintenance company MB92 Group that has published its third report, highlighting the need for greater regulation and concertation across the superyacht industry and its supply chain.

In the report, A Joint Effort for the OceansDriving Sustainability Across the Supply Chain, MB92 is calling for increased regulation and environmental assessment within the superyacht supply chain.

MB92 points out the challenges for refit shipyards and suppliers to propose sustainable solutions to clients, considerations when looking at the whole of the superyacht lifecycle such as material sourcing and sustainable manufacturing processes, research and development and innovation from the supply chain.

“For all the spectacular growth seen in recent decades, the yachting industry is today faced

BRP has reported revenues up 31% to Canadian $3,076.3 million for the last quarter, a record performance for a single quarter in the company’s history.

However, revenues froHowever, revenues from the Marine segment decreased by $10.5 million, or 7.6%, to $128.5 million for the three-month period ended January 31, 2023, compared to $139.0 million for the same period in 2022.

The decrease was due to a lower volume of boats sold due to supply chain disruptions, which slowed down the introduction of new products.

Powersports retail sales were up 21% compared to the same period in 2022, with earnings before income tax and depreciation of $528 million, an increase of $111.6

SUPERYACHT INDUSTRY FLIES BLIND

with a daunting challenge,” explains Jean-Marc Bolinger, MB92 Group CEO, “Either it becomes truly sustainable, or it risks disappearing.”

The survey of MB92 suppliers showed that 44% of respondents consider the data available to support sustainable development either insufficient or nonexistent. In addition, only

39% of the companies surveyed had a mechanism in place to measure their impact and just 14% a mechanism to evaluate that of their own suppliers.

The report highlights that while suppliers are making progress regarding sustainability, the sustainability profile of the yachts themselves has

been relatively slow and the industry needs to intensify its efforts.

In addition, the limited progress made by the supply chains of some equipment makers is another important challenge.

REVENUES UP 31% FOR BRP

to incur production inefficiencies resulting in higher production costs.

million or 27% compared to the same period last year.

For the full year, revenues increased by 31% compared to last year, reaching a record high of $10,033.4 million and a 5% North American powersports market share increase.

The company expects revenues to increase around 9% to 12% compared to the financial year 2023.

The increase in revenues for the three-month period ended January 31 2023, is mainly explained by a strong consumer demand.

The supply chain is gradually returning to a more stable level; however, the company continues

Revenues from Powersports PA&A and OEM Engines increased by $67.6 million, or 21.8%, to $378.3 million for the three-month period ended January 31, 2023, compared to $310.7 million for the corresponding period ended January 31, 2022. The increase was due to a higher volume of parts, accessories and apparel coming from strong unit retail sales, combined with favourable pricing and the introduction of the Sea-Doo pontoon.

The higher volume of PWC sold was driven by strong market demand and better product availability.

8 Most BRP powersports product lines favourably contributed to strong revenue growth

8 The MB92 Group is calling for more sustainability data to be provided

Beneteau has ended 2022 with higher results than forecast.

Thanks to a strong fourth quarter, the sail and motor boat manufacturer ended the year with revenues of €1,508 million, up 22.9% compared with 2021. Income from ordinary operations was €154.7 million in 2022, representing 10.3% of revenues.

“The robust development of all the markets that the group operates in, the quality of its product offering, and the excellent operational execution achieved despite the supply chain disruption that affected the entire industry enabled Groupe Beneteau to set two historic records, with over €1.5 billion of revenues and €150 million of income from ordinary operations,” said chief executive Bruno Thivoyon.

These figures mean that the objectives for 2023 of double-digit operational profitability and growth have been confirmed.

“The group is perfectly positioned to achieve its new objective looking

Vetus is to move to a new purpose-built HQ, doubling its warehouse space.

The new 9,500 m² facility will be constructed in the area of Schiedam where Vetus founder Willem den Ouden started the business from his home, nearly 60 years ago.

In addition to warehouse space, the plans for the HQ include office space laid out to encourage collaboration and creativity. Additionally, the location will provide facilities to show products and conduct in-water tests with dedicated mooring spaces for Vetus demo boats.

The building will be almost energy neutral, with features including a rooftop solar panel array and heat pumps.

“After 50 years of Vetus being housed in the Fokkerstraat in Schiedam, it’s exciting to be moving

BENETEAU ENDS 2022 ON A HIGH

BRIEFS Status

Navico Group’s Lowell facility has reached zerowaste-to-landfill status. The process requires a facility to demonstrate a 90% or higher diversion rate, meaning 90% of its waste materials are being recycled, reused, or otherwise eliminated.

Red Ensign

ahead to 2025,” said Mr Thivoyon. Consolidated EBITDA climbed to €229.2m, representing 15.2% of revenues, an increase of 26.2% over 2021. Net income came to €103.1m, up 40.5%

compared with 2021. Surges in the charter and boat club markets in 2022 enabled the three companies in which the Group has been a shareholder since 2021 to achieve 27% growth in their

full-year revenues – which are now back up to preCovid levels – combined with an €11m increase in their net income.

NEW INVESTMENT FOR VETUS

Ocean Safety’s commercial liferafts have been approved to carry the Red Ensign logo, the new standard for UK marine equipment conformity. The new requirements apply to all SOLAS/MED approved lifesaving equipment manufactured after 1st January 2023 that is to be used on commercially operated UK flagged vessels including UK merchant ships, small commercial vessels, commercially operated leisure craft and fishing vessels.

Administration

into this impressive HQ in 2024 which will also be our 60th anniversary year,” said Marcel Borsboom, CEO, Vetus. “This light, bright, modern facility has been designed with the latest thinking on maximising staff wellbeing and effective collaboration, that will make Vetus much more attractive as an employer,

and it places us in, what is fast becoming, a marine cluster.”

The new warehouse will be equipped with the latest developments in automated storage and retrieval systems, helping the company to store, process, and ship its products in a much more efficient way.

8 Vetus is to move to a purpose built new HQ

This move is part of the company’s wider and longterm strategy for growth and development.

Sales for the 2022 financial year will end on a high with a 40% increase since 2019.

VETUS is part of YANMAR Marine International.

Monks & Crane Industrial Group, supplier of maintenance products, hand and power tools, safety equipment and protective clothing to various sectors including marine has entered administration. The company was founded in 1862 and was a major supplier to the industry including the UK’s largest boatbuilders. It was formerly owned by Würth before it was acquired by investment firm GIL Investments in 2018. The business was headquartered in Wednesbury with regional depots around the UK. The accounts are overdue for filing, but the company is believed to have a turnover close to £40 million in 2022.

8 Groupe Beneteau has ended 2022 with better performance than expected

Source: Groupe Beneteau

Unique and eco-aware: Ferretti’s new superyachts

Ferretti Group is upping its game with the new all aluminium custom line Navetta 50 and the Riva flagship 54METRI superyachts.

The new Navetta 50 is the first yacht in the brand range to be built entirely in aluminium as opposed to GRP, with the much lighter construction bringing better fuel efficiency and performance.

The new yacht offers a reduction in fuel consumption of about 10-15% compared to a 50-metre boat of the same size and volume.

Another advantage is the new yacht sits below the 500 GT demarcation.

One of the interior finishes available onboard the Navetta 50 includes a sustainable Alpi Lignum walnut panelling finish, which when combined with natural hides and leathers made from 100% recycled materials, underline the yacht’s eco focus.

The first completed boat is destined for its new owner in 2023.

Meanwhile, Riva announced recently that it has signed its largest order to date with the sale of the first Riva 54METRI, building on the layouts, features and innovations of the 50METRI model.

The 54METRI design is modelled on other members of the Riva fleet, including counter-curvature of the glazing, cutaway bulwarks and a light exterior paired with dark glazing.

But this new flagship features softer lines with over 370 sq.m of outdoor space, including a stepped aft deck with swimming pool and fold-down bulwarks.

Construction is underway at the Riva shipyard in Ancona with delivery set for 2025.

A HYBRID AND HOLISTIC FAMILY MOTOR YACHT

Seadeck is the first series of hybrid motor yachts designed for families and the most efficient ever designed by Azimut.

It’s a new line that Azimut said embodies the ideal of a ”return to nature”, thanks to technological solutions that can reduce emissions by up to 40%.

“Seadeck [takes] a concrete approach made up of investment, technological research and the courage to introduce a new lifestyle that embraces the sea,” said Giovanna Vitelli, chair of Azimut Benetti Group.

Holistic concept

The Seadeck concept has been developed in collaboration with Alberto Mancini and Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez, which is making its debut in the world of yachting.

From a technological standpoint, the new series is the culmination of

Far East Boats, one of the biggest sailboat builders in China, has unveiled the Fareeast 42C, its first electric catamaran.

The boatbuilder said thThe 42ft vessel is equipped with ePropulsion’s integrated propulsion system and was designed by Simonis Voogd Design.

“All-electric propulsion is the way of the future,” said Demolar Du, CEO of Far East Boats.

“ePropulsion has long been the leader in reliable and efficient electric solutions, so when the time came to put this product together, they were the obvious choice as a partner. We believe sailors and ecoconscious boaters will get the absolute most out of our new catamaran.”

The boat has a streamlined design and uses extra-long, built-in

Azimut’s 20-year R&D drive to implement sustainable innovations.

Seadeck is the first series of models from 60ft up that already integrates Volvo hybrid propulsion. This is combined with a planning hull, which is the most efficient ever built by Azimut, and a state-of-the-art battery pack.

Together these innovations can deliver a 40%

reduction in CO2 emission over a year of average use, both when cruising and at anchor, compared to a traditional flybridge boat of similar dimensions.

The Seadeck’s ‘Fun Island’ meanwhile is a space re-invented to offer an experience immersed in nature, but also a new way to spend time together on board. When the large windows are open, the

interiors and exteriors become one single social space.

FAR EAST BOATS UNVEILS ITS FIRST ALL-ELECTRIC CATAMARAN

plexiglass portholes to allow passengers to enjoy a 360° unobstructed view in the saloon and greater natural light in the cabin.

It is powered by a pair of ePropulsion 20kW electric motors. The battery system uses lithium iron phosphate batteries and up to four batteries can be connected, with a total capacity of

8 The FAREAST 42C combines comfort with the added advantages of ePropulsion electric motors

188.41kWh. The maximum battery life can reach 20 hours, with a range of up to 100 nautical miles in pure electric propulsion mode. Integrating wind, solar and battery energy, the

Seadek 6, the first of three models in the Seadeck series will be presented at the boot Düsseldorf 2024 with Seadeck 7 and Seadeck 8 following in 2024 and 2025. catamaran functions entirely on green and zero-emission propulsion. In hydrogeneration mode, the vessel’s range can be greatly extended with power from motor regeneration fed back into batteries while sailing. While pure electric propulsion mode is adopted, the speed can achieve eight knots and can be adjustable according to different battery levels.

In certain wind conditions, electric propulsion works with sail propulsion to achieve a maximum speed of more than 10 knots.

The Fareast 42C comes equipped with a 20kW onboard battery charger and a portable 3kW battery charger.

8 Seadeck is the first Series of hybrid motor yachts for families and the most efficient ever designed by Azimut

Source: Azimut

Source: Far East Boats

Princess Yachts has unveiled the latest model in its S Class sportbridge range, the S80.

Designed in-house in collaboration with naval architects Olesinki and Italian design house Pininfarina, the S80 can be configured for owner-operation or to accommodate crew of up to three.

“The concept of the Princess S80 focuses on an uncompromising main deck sociable living space with three distinct spaces – sunbathing, lounging and dining,” said Andy Lawrence, director of design at Princess Yachts.

“The S80 is a Princess above all else with a distinct S Class personality defined by its S hull graphic, strong canopy features and powerful bulwark haunches,” he added.

The S80 is equipped with MAN V12 1900 or 2000 hp engines for speeds up to 34 knots, plus an optional 7,000 litre fuel tank to extend cruising range. Both vector fin and gyro stabilisation options are available.

Rather than rest on its laurels, Numarine is continuing to innovate with its vessel range, especially with its new superyacht, the 40MXP.

The new 39m 40MXP retains Numarine’s high-volume, long-range ethos while bringing several new design features to the range.

“The 40MXP marks another exciting point on the chart in our own journey of exploration into innovative superyacht designs that offer unconstrained cruising pleasure,” said Omer Malaz, chairman, Numarine.

Beach lifestyle

As an evolution of, but two metres longer than the 37XP, the new 40MXP draws on the Med lifestyle idea and delivers it in several exciting ways.

First, the aft deck has

PRINCESS UNVEILS NEW S CLASS MODEL

Italian boat builder Wooden Boats has unveiled a new customised Limo Tender 27, tailored to meet the needs of its new owner.

Measuring 7.5m long and 2.55m wide, the tender is ready to be stowed onboard a 52m Sanlorenzo superyacht.

Above decks the S80 has a garage to port side with Williams tender launch system and electro-hydraulic bathing platform. Twin sunpads join the configurable cockpit seating area, galley bar and dining table seating up to eight whilst the 28.7 m2

sportbridge has multiple seating areas, wetbar and barbecue.

The helm includes a Böning vessel monitoring system and pantograph door on the starboard side giving direct access from deck to foredeck which features two seating areas

plus a sunpad conversion.

Below decks are four ensuite cabins with a two-berth crew cabin and bathroom situated aft of the machinery space. Various layouts are possible such as an additional crew mess, third bunk or laundry centre.

THE SUPERYACHT BUILT FOR UNCONSTRAINED CRUISING

been enlarged both as a result of the extra length and also by moving the aft sliding doors to the saloon forward by three metres. The result is an area with space for a large alfresco dining area, a bar and a lounge area surrounding an aft pool complete with glass transom.

The yacht can achieve an impressive 6,000-nauticalmile range at eight knots thanks to the optimised hull form developed by long-standing Numarine naval architecture partner, Umberto Tagliavini.

Standard propulsion comes from a pair of MAN 800hp engines, although there is the option to upgrade to a Tier III-compliant twin MAN 900hp installation.

The interior offers Numarine’s trademark space and luxury, with six suites for up to 12 guests. The interior design, as well as the 40MXP’s exterior lines, comes once again courtesy of Can Yalman.

When the first Limo Tender 27 was built in 2020, the idea was to create a unique model that a particularly demanding owner would be interested in.

Two years later, the second Limo tender uses only the hull lines and the construction technology of its predecessor, but is unique in every other respect.

“Everything else is totally customised to meet the requests of an owner who had very clear ideas down to the smallest detail,” said Marco Arnaboldi, founder Wooden Boats.

”So speaking of a second model is not in fact accurate: each Limo Tender 27 is born with its own distinct personality, to best adapt to the owner’s requests and, consequently, to the style of the yacht it will be stowed in.”

Its bridge is in the bow, which leaves ample space to accommodate 12 guests. At the stern, the transom can be folded down to create a small swim platform equipped with a ladder for climbing out of the sea.

The owner wanted a rigid and non removable deckhouse, therefore a 12V air conditioning system and a sliding sunroof were provided.

It can achieve a maximum speed of 37 knots thanks to a 270hp Mercury diesel engine with stern drive.

The exclusivity of a limousine in a boat

Two 40MXPs have already been sold with delivery expected in 2025.

8 The new 39m 40MXP retains Numarine’s highvolume, long-range ethos while bringing several new design features to the range

Source: Princess Yachts

Source: Numarine

8 The new Princess S80

8 The customised Limo Tender 27 has been tailored exclusively to meet the needs of its new owner

Source: Wooden Boats

The effect of the Prime Minister’s announcement on 23 March 2020 that everyone able to work from home must do so was a fundamental and rapid change to the world of work, writes Tina Chander. The net result was the concept of ‘hybrid working’. And it was revelatory. But for others, the benefits were double-edged, especially for those juggling work with caring responsibilities and those who lived alone.

Flexible v Hybrid

From a legal perspective, it is important not to conflate flexible working with hybrid working. The right to request flexible working is enshrined in statute, albeit fairly rigidly framed. This rigidity will be softened with new legislation, Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Bill.

Currently, only employees with 26 weeks continual service have the right to request flexible working, they can only make one request within a 12-month period and must explain what impact their request will have on the business. Employers have up to three months to respond and can reject the request for one of eight reasons set out in statute. The Bill seeks to make the process less administratively onerous as well as make flexible working the default – and with more generous terms. However, the general principles will remain the same ie, allowing employees to alter their core hours, start / finish times, and where they are located.

On the other hand, hybrid working, where the employee splits their time between the office and home (or elsewhere), is entirely at the discretion of the employer. Hybrid arrangements tend to be

TINA CHANDER: Head of employment law at Wright Hassall LLP

HYBRID WORKING – IS IT RIGHT FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

environment’ in which to work. Employers do not necessarily have to visit each employee’s home to check employees are working safely but they should carry out a risk assessment, via a questionnaire and / or selfassessment tool.

Data protection: Keeping information confidential and ensuring data, devices and documents are kept secure applies as equally at home as it does in the office. Employers need to carry out a Data Protection Impact Assessment to identify and mitigate data security concerns.

applied on a team or even organisation-wide basis, whereas flexible working, which would be in addition to any hybrid arrangement, is usually agreed on an individual basis.

Hybrid working policy

There is no set procedure for implementing hybrid working, so any policy, as a minimum, should be clear on which roles are suitable for hybrid working and which are not, setting out a clear rationale for the latter.

For those employees for whom hybrid working is appropriate, the employer must specify what proportion of an employee’s time can be split between the workplace and remotely. Failure to set this out clearly could result in employees claiming an implied contractual right to remote working. Employers need to review the needs of their business before agreeing an appropriate split (pro-rated for part-time employees). Any policy must also be explicit if employees are required to be in the office on certain days.

Employers also need to be clear on how far from the office employees can work remotely: Within a certain radius? UK only? Can they work from anywhere apart from their home address and, if they do, do they need to ask permission? Which travel costs to attend the office, if any, will the employer meet? For employees allowed to work from an overseas location, there will be additional issues to consider such as immigration, tax, and data protection. Any policy should also confirm whether employees will be provided with company IT and office furniture or if they will be required to use their own. Finally, a hybrid working policy must highlight any instances when the agreement may be revoked for individual employees, for example, if there are concerns over their conduct, performance or health and well-being.

If hybrid working is designed to be permanent employers may wish to consider formally changing employees’ terms and

conditions of employment to include changes to the place of work clauses and attendance. If so, employees must consent to the changes; if a business unilaterally changes an employee’s contract, it is likely to face a claim. The same applies to reducing the pay of those based at home – such a contractual change can only be undertaken with the express agreement of the employee.

Working from home: practical considerations

There will be various operational issues that are part and parcel of daily office life that will need to be reviewed and/or adapted.

Policies: The majority of policies that apply while employees are in the office will also apply to remote working. Employers will need to review and adapt policies as necessary to reflect changing working patterns.

Health and safety:

Employers are responsible for ensuring that workers working remotely have a ‘healthy and safe

Monitoring: This is an understandably sensitive issue and employers should first establish if there is another way to achieve the desired outcome. Nonetheless, monitoring employees is allowed under data protection law providing it is both proportionate and necessary, and that employees are warned in advance of the monitoring starting.

Expenses: Employers can use their discretion when choosing to reimburse any costs incurred by home working or commuting. Employees can receive up to £6 a week from their employer on which they can claim tax relief. Otherwise they can only claim tax relief from HMRC for business calls and energy costs for their work area. A claim can only be made if the role requires the employee to live a long way from the office or if there is no office.

In summary

Hybrid working is evolving, and it appears to be here to stay. Employers must rise to the challenge and find a way that works for their staff and their organisation.

Photo by Jornada Produtora on Unsplash

JUNE 2023 Southampton United Kingdom 13 15 TO

For more information visit: seawork.com contact: +44 1329 825 335 or email: info@seawork.com

SIGN UP TODAY

The 24th edition of Europe’s largest commercial marine and workboat exhibition, is a proven platform to build business networks.

Seawork delivers an international audience of visitors supported by our trusted partners.

Seawork is the meeting place for the commercial marine and workboat sector.

12,000m2 of undercover halls feature 500 and equipment on the quayside and pontoons.

Speed@Seawork on Monday 12 June at the Royal event for fast vessels operating at high speed for security interventions and Search & Rescue.

Speed@Seawork Sea Trials & Conference

The European Commercial Marine Awards (ECMAs) and Innovations Showcase.

experts, helps visitors to keep up to date with the latest challenges and emerging opportunities.

The Careers & Training Day on Thursday 15 June 2023 delivers a programme focused on careers in the commercial marine industry.

New Cox Powertrain dealer

Marine exhibition Seawork is using the latest online technology to keep exhibitors and visitors in touch and doing business before and after this year’s event.

Seawork Connect allows exhibitors to maintain a strong virtual presence all year round and to connect at any time to potential new customers, suppliers and distributors.

CONNECTING THE MARINE INDUSTRY

Berthon Power, UK and Ireland distributor of the Cox 300hp diesel outboard, has appointed Andrew Cox Marine in Falmouth as a Cox Powertrain dealer.

Berthon has invested in Cox Powertrain for the past 10 years.

Cox Powertrain designs diesel-powered outboard engines, which are fuel efficient, high-powered and eco-friendly.

Andrew Cox Marine is a family-run business that has provided marine engineering service in marinas and boat yards in mid and West Cornwall for nearly 25 years.

“I am looking forward to a long and prosperous relationship with Berthon Power,” said Andrew. “The 300hp diesel outboard is the perfect addition to our portfolio of outboard motors, stern drives and generator sets and we are excited about what the future holds with this engine.”

Dominic May, Berthon Power MD, added: “Cox diesel outboard engines have gone from strength to strength over the last few years.

“It is great to see our plans coming together with dealers for the Cox engine being signed up across the UK so that customers know that when they buy a Cox engine in the UK, the aftersales service will be unrivalled.”

The outboards are developed for commercial and leisure use.

Berthon will be exhibiting at Seawork 2023.

Visitors can use the Connect functions on seawork.com to virtually visit this year’s exhibitors and connect with other visitors, setting up instant and scheduled meetings, accessing product information, collecting contact details and attending free online events.

AI matching technology behind the Connect platform means that the more users reach out to others in the industry the wider their network grows, and with it the opportunities for increased business.

Users can also download reports on the activity

Hendy Power will show the latest FPT Industrial engines at Seawork 2023.

The key exhibit on stand is set to be the new FPT Industrial Cursor 16 600 marine engine which will be IMO Tier III emission regulations ready.

“FPT Industrial has more than a century of experience in the marine sector with ongoing research and development to provide users with high-quality, fuel-efficient, lightweight engines designed to guarantee maximum performance and efficiency along with industry leading service intervals,” said Hendy Power director Andy Smith.

“We’re expecting a high level of interest from operators looking to repower their vessels with the very latest in marine engine technology.”

Visitors to the show will

around their profile. In addition, Seawork Connect offers exhibitors and visitors the chance to keep up to date with industry trends, moves and business updates as well as the latest news

on recruitment, skills and professional development.

Registration for Seawork Connect is via the Seawork. com website and once registered, users will automatically receive their electronic invitation to

Seawork 2023 and have full access to news of the features and activities at the live event taking place from June 13 – 15 2023. Registered visitors will have priority booking for Seawork conferences.

NEW FPT ENGINE TO BE SHOWN AT SEAWORK

also be able to see the benefits of the MyFPT App which has been designed to provide operators with realtime engine information together with engine data.

MyFPT has been designed to provide a fast and easy way to

access a range of information from one app and features data, user manuals, service schedules and parameters.

It provides the operating status of the power unit in real-time and lets users request assistance.

It pr status in lets us assista

The entere Innova which with th to see equipm projec engine 159lit

The engine has been entered into the Seawork Innovation Showcase which provides visitors with the opportunity to see the latest in equipment, services, projects and vessels.

The FPT Industrial Cursor engines range from 8.7 to 15.9 litres displacement –from 170 to 1,000hp.

Hendy Power is the marine and industrial engine division of the Hendy Group and FPT Industrial authorised distributor for the UK and Ireland for sales and services.

8 Hendy Marine Power will show the latest FPT engines at Seawork 2023

8 Berthon Power has appointed Andrew Cox Marine as a Cox Powertrain dealer

A pioneering scheme is uniting students from around the world with local community volunteers with the shared aim of helping to save lives on the coast.

Thought to be a worldfirst, the collaborative scheme has seen the establishment of a new National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) station at the UWC Atlantic College at St Donat’s, Wales, where seven student NCI ‘cadets’ from Canada, Kenya, Taiwan, Pakistan, China, Peru and the Netherlands have undergone training under the supervision of trained volunteers from the local area.

It’s also part of the students’ formal International Baccalaureate qualification which requires an element of service in the community.

The Atlantic College students - aged between 16 and 19 - are receiving the NCI’s watchkeeping training in a range of skills such as interpreting

Osmotech UK is backing Ella Hibbert’s campaign to become the first person to complete a solo, non-stop circumnavigation of the Arctic Circle.

Initially, Ella set out to conquer The Northwest Passage, a route that follows the northern coast of North America through waterways in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.

However, due to recent shifts in global warming and polar ice caps, she has decided to embark on a more challenging journey by circumnavigating the entire Arctic Circle - a feat that was once deemed impossible.

If Ella can successfully complete the task in a single season, it will serve as a testament to the depleting ice coverage in the region.

“Having personally sailed over 30,000 nautical miles, including two Atlantic crossings, I wholeheartedly endorse Ella’s endeavour

LIFESAVERS OF THE FUTURE ARE UNITED

rescue and became the model for RNLI inshore rescue boats,” explained Jessica Moon Bowen, activities team leader at UWC Atlantic and deputy station manager NCI St Donat’s Bay.

“And now, our partnership with the NCI means we are bringing our student experience and skills right up to date, creating lifesavers of the future who will help spread the word worldwide.”

Holding tank requirement is removed

weather and tides, VHF radio operation and reading maritime charts.

“Here at UWC Atlantic, we have a long history of helping to save lives at sea, going back to the 1960s when our students helped

develop the Atlantic class rigid hull inflatable boat (RIB) which revolutionised international maritime

The St Donat’s Bay station opened in 2021 and is expected to achieve HM Coastguard Declared Facility Status in 2023 which means it will be formally recognised as part of the maritime search and rescue organisation.

NCI is a support organisation to Seawork 2023.

IMPOSSIBLE FEAT ATTEMPT

and her efforts to raise awareness about the changing environment in one of the world’s most vulnerable regions,” said Osmotech CEO Mike Ingram.

Ella grew up sailing dinghies and has worked in various superyacht crew roles. She is a RYA Yachtmaster Instructor, and latterly has worked full time for a sailing school.

She plans to take part in the challenge in summer 2024 and will be supported by various marine industry businesses.

In order to be as environmentally friendly as possible, she intends to add solar panels, wind vanes, hydro generators and a water maker onboard plus other sustainable technology.

Osmotech will be exhibiting at Seawork 2023.

8 Ella Hibbert’s challenge is backed by Osmotech UK

Wave International’s new compact, integrated and intelligent wastewater filtration system will be shown or the first time in the UK at Seawork 2023 by UK distributor Halyard.

Contained in a single uniThe Wavebrite SMART removes all contaminants from onboard grey water, and discharges clean water to meet the EU Waste Water Standard.

The system, which removes the need for a separate grey water holding tank, is contained in a single unit with a separate display screen which can be remotely mounted for easy viewing and shows the flow rate, daily and total volumes of filtered grey water, and the condition and status of the filters.

The input of grey water is controlled by a level switch located in the wastewater sump, which comes supplied with the unit.

Up to 20,000 litres of grey water can be processed before the main filter needs to be changed, which is indicated by a warning signal on the display panel.

Data available also shows the flow rate and accumulative volume of grey water filtered over the lifetime of the Wavebrite SMART main module, with indicators on the display screen showing if any maintenance is required.

The system is suitable for a range of craft from day boats to cruising sailing yachts, superyachts and commercial vessels. It can be installed in new builds or as a retrofit.

8 Atlantic College students are collaborating with community volunteers from NCI St Donat’s

8 The new Wavebrite SMART will be shown at Seawork 2023

The issue of which type of material is best suited for accessories on boats remains contentious.

Brass – an alloy of copper and zinc – has been used for centuries but can be prone to corrosion in salt water. According to the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) this process – known as dezincification – was known about as early as the 1920s as a cause of failure of condenser tubes on naval vessels.

In the 1990s the MAIB listed dezincification as the primary cause of a nearsinking of a fishing vessel which got into difficulty in heavy seas off the UK’s south coast in July 1999.

The cause of the leak on board Random Harvest was found to be a failure of the brass through-hull fitting to the toilet seawater inlet. The fitting had failed from dezincification which had probably been accelerated by stray electric currents.

“The MAIB considers that brass is not a suitable material for use in through-hull fittings immersed in seawater

Surface finishing industry manufacturer Mirka, is celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2023. Innovations over the years have included dust-free sanding with the launch of Abranet in 2001 as well as several awardwinning power tools such as the DEROS.

The company was founded in 1943 in Helsinki by the engineer Onni Aulo, but due to the continuation of WWII, production did not start until 1946.

The company has expanded over the years with a network of companies across the globe with Mirka (UK) Ltd the first daughter company to be established in 1979.

“The most important element of our evolution has always been to listen to the voice of our

THE BEST SUBSTITUTE FOR BRASS?

result in an unstable material more fragile than normal brass alloys.

Are composites the answer?

There is a trend away from metals and alloys towards composites, such as glassreinforced nylon. However, their use is not without concerns around suitability and sustainability. Despite being corrosion-proof, there are questions around mechanical strength, resistance to heat and fire and possible lower flow rates.

because it can suffer rapid corrosion through dezincification which is probably exacerbated by overtightening,” said the report into the investigation.

To counteract problems caused by dezincification, the industry turned to DZR brass, an alloy with a greater

proportion of zinc which is used to remove lead from drinking water systems. This has the advantage of being resistant to dezincification but is not completely resistant to corrosion: if the material comes into contact with parts made from a different alloy or metal, an

electrolytic cell may be created leading to a type of corrosion known as galvanic. Moreover, producing DZR brass involves a lot of energy and if not done perfectly can

Italian marine accessories manufacturer, Guidi, champions bronze as the best alternative and has commissioned a range of tests showing the material to be more resistant to corrosion than brass. Another alloy of copper, it has lower levels of zinc than brass and typically contains tin and sometimes other metals such as aluminium.

80th ANNIVERSARY FOR SURFACE FINISHING COMPANY

that will shape how we look at our business and how we perform - not only for Mirka but for the entire industry.”

He added: “The company that solves this puzzle will be relevant for many years to come, and looking at our organisation today, I am confident that Mirka will be here to celebrate its 90th and 100th anniversaries as well.”

customers,” said Mirka CEO Stefan Sjöberg.

“We are proud of all the milestones we have achieved, but to stay

relevant we must also look forward to the next big thing, and here we see a lot of potential.

“The Green Deal in the

8 Mirka is celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2023 European Union, and the green transition in the world, in general, are things

And he explained that while the business is a very different company today, its core vision remains the same; to give people and its customers the opportunity to perform better and achieve a perfect finish.

8 An analysis commissioned by Guidi comparing the anticorrosion properties of brass (A) and bronze (B)

Source: Guidi

WBV’s new double helm chair unit has a 360-degree swivel allowing it to be turned around.

The chairs are fixed onto a single base, meaning just four bolts are needed to install the unit onto a GRP box saving boatbuilders time.

”Many RIBS and leisure power boats have U-shaped seating at the back, so we designed a dual suspension unit that has the ability for seat to independently swivel to create a sociable space within the boat,” explained WBV director of sales and marketing, Dan Henderson.

“The platform we use connects both seats and we can also CNC a logo into the middle allowing it to be customised. We’ve designed the unit so it can be bolted straight into a boat making it a lot easier and quicker for boatbuilders. We’re solving a lot of problems for boatbuilders with the swivel suspension unit.”

NEW CHAIR UNIT FROM WBV

The module also integrates Fox shock absorbers which can be individually adjusted for the user’s body weight to alter the stiffness and rebound rate.

“Previously we offered just the suspension module but we’re now able to offer the complete package - the suspension kit, platform and chairs,” explained Dan.

The chairs themselves can be customised with different upholstery options available.

New courtesy light from Lumitec

Lumitec’s latest LED light is the Fiji Courtesy Light.

The platform incorporates two independent WBV suspension modules which

are manufactured from CNC machined solid aluminium and designed to reduce wave shock.

Features include a wide bucket design which can also be flipped up as a bolster for use as a leaning post. It has lumber support and high sides for support when underway.

The double helm chair unit measures less than a metre wide.

TIME FOR A RETHINK ON ZINC?

The dominance within the marine industry of zinc anodes may be coming to an end as prices rise and alternatives become commonplace.

Supplier MGDuff has highlighted that changes in commodity prices mean that aluminium anodes are now 20% cheaper than their traditional zinc counterparts.

“Aluminium anodes have been on the market for the last 30 years or more but since the price of zinc has doubled in the last two years, aluminium is now cheaper,” said MGDuff commercial director James Beale.

Not only is aluminium cheaper, it is proving a better material with more useful properties. “It has a higher driving voltage so, unlike zinc, works in salt water and brackish, and has a higher amp-hour per kilo rate meaning it lasts longer too,” continued James.

Environmentally-friendly

“Another plus is that aluminium anodes are more environmentally friendly as they don’t contain cadmium,” he added.

Aluminium is gaining traction in the leisure industry with Princess Yachts and Sunseeker

reportedly both using the material. Its popularity has long been established in the commercial world, according to MGDuff sales director, Toby Biddlecombe.

“The only reason people have been using zinc in the

past is the price,” he said. “In the commercial world we’ve been using aluminium in sea water for over 30 years. The option is slowly filtering down to chandleries.”

Aluminium has one further benefit: “For mailorder chandleries, shipping aluminium is much cheaper than zinc because it is so much lighter,” said Toby.

The new light is a fullcolour, two-wire courtesy light designed to be used in conjunction with a Lumitec Poco module to provide unlimited colour options via a compatible MFD or connected smart device. Lumitec’ s PLI technology is incorporated in the light making it fully compatible with the Poco Digital Lighting Control system. This means less wire runs and fewer connections, saving on both material costs and installation time.

Fiji can use a boat’s existing wiring harness using the Poco system’s ability to create ‘virtual circuits’, which allow different Lumitec light families to share a hard circuit yet receive separate colour commands form the Poco module.

Fiji does not include Lumitec’ s TTP technology.

“The Fiji’s full colour spectrum includes an intense true white emitter not found other courtesy lights, offering the boat owner unsurpassed light output quality,” said said Chris Fulmer, Lumitec president.

“Boat builders are excited because the two-wire connection means a greater than 50% saving on time and materials.”

The Fiji Courtesy Light has a small footprint, no exposed fasteners, and a contemporary design.

The light is available with a direct or indirect light beam pattern, with a choice of a stainless steel, white or black finish.

8 Aluminium anodes are now 20% cheaper than their zinc counterparts

8 WBV’s new double helm seat

The Ultimate Boat Hook

New all-in-one light and trim system

8 The Humphree Lightning all-in-one light, trim and stabilisation system

Marine engineering company Humphree has introduced a new all-in-one underwater light, trim and stabilisation system for the 20 to 45ft market.

Lightning by Humphree incorporates an ultra-fast blade movement that stabilises small boats with short roll periods, trimming the boat, controlling the heel in turns and ultimately giving a reportedly smoother and more stable ride.

“No matter what propulsion system you use – outboards, electric, stern drive, inboard – this new system will be the perfect choice for new build boats or when you refit a used boat. It will take you to the next level,” said a company spokesperson.

“Here at Humphree we create technology that automatically measures and countermeasures boat motion, taking seasickness out of an otherwise enjoyable ride.”

The Lightning system works by intercepting water flow underneath the hull to create hydrodynamic lift which acts on the hull rather than on the trim device itself, helping to reduce fuel consumption by a reported 5 - 20%.

Operated through the Humphree app, the system features automatic functions Auto Trim, Auto List, Pitch Control, Roll Stabilisation and Coordinated Turn and comes in a range of options – Comfort, Comfort Plus, Dynamic and Dynamic Plus – all of which feature built in underwater lights eliminating the need for separate installation.

Quick Marine Lighting has added several lines to its underwater lights.

New models for surface installation are available from the Delta series with thru-hull models available in the new Evolution series.

In addition, the recently designed Thi series has thru-hull models, and being interchangeable, allows for replacement of parts with the boat remaining in the water.

All products in the new lines have a built-in driver - except for RGBW models in the Delta and Evolution series - and are compatible with Quick Nautical Network (QNN) control systems.

Select models are also compatible with the Quick Colour Control (QCC) system, which allows users to modify the tones of the light and program lighting scenes.

The three series, which differ in aesthetics and power, range from 30W to 80W models and have three kinds of light: monocolour, bicolour and RGBW.

NEW UNDERWATER LIGHTS FROM QUICK

The Thi series and the monocolour and bicolour Delta and Evolution models have integrated drivers with miniaturised electronics for easier installation.

All the series have a temperature sensor to

prevent damage caused by an increase in internal temperature or accidental switching on of the light in the air.

The lamp body is made from Inox AISI 316 steel for greater heat dissipation to prevent corrosion. Integration with QCC

for all models will be completed later in 2023. Quick’s lights are available from 15 to 120 watts.

m, y OUR BRANDS www.improducts.co.uk

Exclusive distributors of prestigious international brands. Our dedicated team offers you invaluable technical knowledge, unrivalled service levels and dependable support. Boating business 154x120 DEC2022 FINAL indd 1 01/12/2022 08:37

Luxury yacht builder Pearl Yachts has partnered with design and manufacturing company Makefast to create a new shading solution for its latest model, the Pearl 72.

The Makefast Louvre Sunroof system features rotating and retracting louvres in a single roof, which allows a choice of shade and ventilation styles.

The louvres can be fully retracted to give an open area, or vented to allow a breeze and dappled shade. The system is made of marine-grade materials, including stainless steel, aluminium and carbon fibre, and can be operated with a touch of a button.

“Pearl has become renowned for pushing the boundaries of design and we knew that Makefast would be up for the challenge,” said the Pearl Yachts design team.

“Makefast designed and manufactured the Louvre Sunroof system to fit the specifications and

Sea Sure is expanding its ‘stick on’ range of fittings for 2023 and 2024.

The company’s new stick-on Rope Tidy comes complete with a 3M VHB adhesive pad so users can peel the release film off and stick the product to a boat.

The Rope Tidies can also be stuck on using epoxy or similar products.

“The advancement in adhesive and epoxies has meant that it is no longer necessary to always bolt or screw fittings to boats, you can simply stick or glue them on,” explained Sea Sure’s sales and marketing director, Dan Henderson.

“The biggest benefit of sticking a fitting on rather than screwing is that you don’t need to drill holes in your boat.

“Drilling holes can lead to a number of issues, the main one being water ingress.”

In addition, points out Dan, if fittings need to be moved around a boat at a later date, the hole will

NEW SHADES FOR LATEST PEARL MODEL

MARKETING

It’s highly likely that a request or two for sponsorship has dropped into your inbox recently. There are loads of individuals, teams, events and restoration projects searching for funds to make good on what they have set out to achieve.

aesthetics of the yacht.

“The result is a sleek and modern roof design.”

Makefast has been producing roller blinds, panel sunroofs, canvas sunroofs,

sun awnings, carbon poles and sail shades, and hydraulic units for the marine and safety industries for more than 20 years.

Based in Wales, the

company also offers design, prototype and manufacture services to its clients.

SEA SURE EXPANDS ITS RANGE FOR 2023

As much as we would like to support every request, it’s just not feasible. Sponsorships can be an important part of your marketing mix, so it’s all about picking the right opportunities.

Firstly, every approach must be assessed against your business goals. Does it align with what you are looking to achieve over time? Does it fit with your business values? Will it help you reach the right audience, in the right place, at the right time?

Secondly, think about value. What is being asked of your business? What will you get in return? How big will the impact be? How much resource will you need to put in to make the sponsorship a success?

need to be filled as part of the process.

The retail pack contains an alcohol wipe to clean the surface prior to sticking, sandpaper so that the surface can be prepared to give the best adhesion,

and stickers for the front of the Rope Tidy that are printed with the names of each rope or halyard, so these can be stored correctly.

The stick-on Rope Tidy joins Sea Sure’s range of

The product will be available from chandleries over the next few months.

If the answers are positive at this point, it’s time to open discussions. You want to be looking at the capabilities of the people/organisation involved, the plan they have to achieve what they are looking to do and how realistic it is. To move forward, it’s prudent to have an agreement in place setting expectations on each side.

The right, carefully chosen sponsorships can be great for your business, so always at least take a glance at those emails.

8 The new Pearl 72 has a bespoke Makefast Louvre Sunroof system

CHRIS JONES is founder of the Knot Agency

Source: Pearl Yachts

stick-on Pad eyes and FLO tell tales.

8 The Rope Tidies can be stuck onto a boat using epoxy or similar products.

LESLEY ROBINSON British Marine CEO

Following the success of the inaugural event last year, we are delighted to be bringing London Luxury Afloat back to the capital (18-22 April 2023, St Katharine Docks).

Developed to support the luxury yacht sector and provide a platform to boost prospects at the start of the season, the show is designed to appeal to discerning boat buyers and showcases some of the very best brands in the luxury sail, motor and superyacht market side-byside in the heart of the city.

London Luxury Afloat is a unique opportunity for both visitors and exhibitors alike. Visitors enjoy access to numerous luxury brands in single location including the likes of Oyster and Sunseeker who are already confirmed, with even more to be announced, plus a selection of shoreside exhibitors displaying smaller craft and complimentary products and services. It is also a great day out with access to the exclusive waterside floating bar and lounge for ticket holders alongside all that is on offer from the historic St Katharine Docks. For exhibitors it is a chance to expose their brand to a bespoke audience, looking to purchase their first yacht or seeking to upgrade.

Tickets on sale now at https://www.

londonluxuryafloat.com/ tickets Companies interested in participating, by taking an on-water berth, landside display or sponsorship package, should contact Loretta Westoll-Green: sales@britishmarine.co.uk/ 07584 563359.

NEW LIGHTING AND FABRIC CHOICES FROM TIMAGE

The new 3D Bend Silicone Neon Strip from Timage allows flexibility in side and top directions.

This linear light offers a solution to clients who need to follow multiple axes of curve in a single length of light.

It offers high light transmittance and optical light distribution, giving a uniform lighting surface with no shadow. The strip is available in 24V in 5W and 10W versions.

Being made from environmental protection grade silicone material and manufactured using an integrated extrusion moulding process, the light

strip achieves both IP67 protection level with salt resistance.

The neon strip is available in white ranging from 2100k to 6000k, or in red, green, blue, amber or pink.

One of the new fabrics to be added to the Timage range is Mito Vinyl, which is a vinyl fabric for interior and exterior application. It has high performance structural properties,

8 The new 3D Bend Silicone Neon Strip offers a solution to clients who need to follow multiple axes of curve in a single length of light

which Timage says helps to create premium quality finished surfaces on soft furniture. Its surface feel is similar to suede leather.

Mito has a refined look with a fine microstructure and an elegant cloud print. It has a good abrasion resistance, is flame retardant, easy to clean, colourfast and is resistant to mould and bacteria.

The fabric is available in a selection of colours.

IMP EXPANDS ITS PRODUCT RANGE

New to IMP’s product portfolio in 2023 are the Nomen and Olcese Ricci marine hardware and accessory ranges.

Olcese Ricci, founded in 1946 in Genoa, Italy, appointed IMP as its exclusive UK distributor in March.

The agreement includes the complete Olcese Ricci product catalogue, including watertight doors and vertical locker doors.

There’s also a huge range of hardware available with locks, plates and escutcheons, door handles and hooks.

Clever cleats

Also new to the IMP range this year are Nomen Cleats products, which includes the new ‘Sport Line’ Cleat III.

Nomen Products was formed out of Nomen Design, the design studio of Axel Hoppenhaus, founded in 1995 in Hamburg, Germany.

The original Nomen Cleat was created with a unique patented folding mechanism which helped

to ensure that loose lines could not get caught during manoeuvring.

In 2018, the Nomen Cleat II won a DAME Award

IMP

in 2013 and the German Design Award in 2018.

The new Nomen Cleat III was launched at METS 2022. It’s a further

8 The new

Source:

development of the original Nomen cleat, but with a more slender geometry. It has a new optimised single-hand folding mechanism, 30% less product weight and has customised positions for the fastener holes, meaning they can be adapted to those of other brands.

SEADEK APPROVED ANTI-SLIP FOAM DECKING CLEANER

Marine Magic is a new SeaDek UK approved deck cleaner specially formulated for EVA Foam decking..

It’s the first ever SeaDek UK approved and made in England deck cleaner, which also has anti-slip properties.

Added to this, the company said it’s also safe for the environment because it contains no polymers. It’s now available directly from

SeaDek UK in volumes of one and five litres.

SeaDek itself is a non-skid, closed cell EVA decking material which offers a safe and comfortable alternative to molded-in nonskid, paint-on textures and other marine traction products.

Made in the USA from UV protected non-absorbent foam, the material features an innovative, textured micro-dot

surface or brushed faux teak for added non-slip characteristics.

Formulated with a 3M acrylic based high-bond pressure sensitive adhesive, SeaDek’s robust, peel-andstick application makes it easy to install and it requires no mounting of hardware.

SeaDek also provides protection for boat surfaces, especially in high traffic areas.

Nomen Cleat III is a further development of the original Nomen cleat, but with a more slender geometry

Source: Timage

ARE LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES ON YACHTS SAFE?

Lithium-ion powered vessels and toys are increasing their market share year on year, with market drivers being environmental regulations, advances in technology and a progressive consumer mindset.

As such the implications, and realities, of a casualty when lithium is involved can be very significant and a panel of marine personnel is now asking if lithium-ion batteries on yachts are safe.

Over the last 18 months Maritime Aviation has been made aware of approximately 20 significant and catastrophic events involving superyachts or large yachts, where the causative factor has been identified as a lithium-ion battery, said company representative Richard Selby.

“Lithium-ion batteries are great technology,” he said. “It’s just really a matter of common sense, using products that are in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, depending on the environment that they

are in, making sure the right people are correctly trained to respond accordingly alongside appropriate monitoring and detection.” He added: “You wouldn’t put a candle next to a curtain at night and go to bed. So why would you leave a product on charge overnight or unattended whilst you go out?”

Exponential growth

However, Charlie Mumford from the Cayman Islands Shipping Registry reported that although the organisation has seen an exponential growth in the use of toys with lithium-ion batteries across their fleet

of 2,200 yachts, that there was only one fire in 2021 and another in 2022 directly linked to lithium batteries on board.

“Our yachts already have knowledge of fire safety principles because they carry petrol jet skis or petrol rescue boats,” he said. “They are already familiar with the risks, whereas with entirely private, sometimes unclassed, and un-flagged boats, we have very little control over that.”

The panel concluded that boat owners need to be educated on the dos and don’ts regarding lithium batteries.

“With the care and

Non-flammable battery technology developed

ABS has issued New Technology Qualification (NTQ) for a non-flammable battery technology for use at sea.

In addition to being nonflammable, Blue G is also said to be non-degrading and easily recycled.

The Blue G battery consists of a water-based electrolyte solution, storage tank, stack cell and regulating pump.

attention that needs to go into a risk assessment I do believe that we can answer our question as to whether lithium-ion batteries on yachts are safe as – yes, they can be,” said Duncan Duffy, global head of technology, Electrotechnical Systems, Lloyd’s Register. However, there is an urgent need for regulation of all the above points within the private yachting sector to also incorporate flag and coding policies as well as subsequent guidance notes provided for the industry as a whole.

NEW STACKABLE HYDROGEN POWER MODULE

Hydrogen power solutions developer Genevos has launched its latest hydrogen power module (HPM), the HPM-80.

The 80kW plug-and-play marine fuel cell is stackable to multi-MW scale and joins the HPM-15 and HPM-40 fuel cell products.

The range is suitable for a drop-in solution for decarbonising boats and ships with propulsion systems from 10kW to 5MW. The range is in the Type Approval Certification process with the first HPM80 multi-stacked system due to be delivered this summer.

“Durability and reliability are core to Genevos’ marine design philosophy, which

led to the development of highly scalable modules,” said a Genevos spokesperson.

“The HPMs are electrically connected in parallel to reach optimal vessel power requirements, with each module

protected and controlled to provide independent power, enabling high efficiency and redundancy.”

The technology is designed to provide a

low weight, optimised, and modular solution to meet specific energy requirements of a vessel, with only water produced as a by-product.

The unit can be used to eliminate emissions in port and at anchor by powering auxiliary systems or they can be used as part of a hybrid system.

It has been engineered to minimise the overall weight and energy consumption of a vessel weighing in at 330kg.

Other features include plug and play capabilities, graphite plate technology, energy management system, safety monitoring system and a DC to DC converter.

The battery incorporates Vanadium redox technology, a feature of which is that the process of charging and discharging energy does not produce excess heat.

“Vanadium redox technology is a potential game changer in the application of batteries at sea,” said Gareth Burton, ABS vice president, Technology. “It has the advantages of a long lifespan, greatly improved energy capacity and an improved safety profile as a non-flammable product.

“This technology is one that has the potential to accelerate the energy transition in the maritime industry.”

Gennal highlights advantages of its system including scalability and a longer lifespan – more than 25 years and its recyclable features, stating that the vanadium electrolyte is easily extracted and recycled when the battery is decommissioned.

“We are glad to be partnering with ABS in achieving this qualification for Blue G,” said Alex Peck, director of Gennal Engineering. “It reflects the confidence ABS has in Gennal in helping the industry to accelerate forward toward marine decarbonisation.”

Prototype testing is due later in 2023.

8 A Princess yacht was destroyed by fire in 2022

8 The new Genevos 80kW power module

New BMS is a fit-and-forget solution

Autonnic’s new Aptivolt system is a new modular battery management system which brings together all sources of power to charge batteries onboard.

The system is a fit-and-forget solution that is compatible with all battery chemistries and also allows users to choose the order in which batteries can be charged.

It has a modular design allowing the system to be setup to meet the exact requirements of a boat.

“The idea for Aptivolt came from my personal frustration with the battery management on my own yacht,” said Chris Shelton, head of Autonnic. “There was no one system available, which could bring together all the potential sources of power and make sure that it was distributed to the various batteries onboard, prioritising the most important ones and then working through the others as needed.”

The system will manage multiple sources of power input and distribute power to multiple batteries, with priority settings to organise power distribution.

Chris added: “It was essential to include alternator boosting, operate solar panels at their maximum power point and also build in a data stream to provide information about the system.

“It has taken several years of development to squeeze the necessary magic into the various modules, but I strongly believe that Aptivolt now solves the problem, with boaters able to customise their set up and have peace of mind that they are doing their best to keep all their batteries in tip top shape for when they need them.”

NEW BATTERY IS DESIGNED TO BE EASIER TO USE

ePropulsion has announced new E-Series batteries for 2023.

With a more ergonomic design, the E60 and E163 will supplement the company’s existing E80 and E175 batteries.

“While capacity is an obvious focus of useroriented innovation, making batteries easier to use is also vital to promoting adoption of electric propulsion,” said Danny Tao, ePropulsion CEO. “ePropulsion electric outboard engines combined with the new batteries are the perfect solution for boaters looking to embrace quiet, clean and environmentally conscious propulsion.”

The new batteries are lithium iron phosphate developed for highperformance and for up to 3,000 charging cycles.

The batteries are IP67 waterproof rated, with the E60 designed for use with the ePropulsion Navy 3.0 Evo (6hp) and the E163 designed for the Navy 6.0 Evo (9.9hp).

The E-Series has an intelligent battery management system (BMS)

which features a display that shows state of charge, voltage, current and alarm information.

The E60 has a doublelayer plastic housing can be handled and installed by one person, while the E163 is designed for high reliability with an all-metal

8 ePropulsion’s new batteries have been developed for high-performance

housing that is impact resistant and drop proof. Connectors can be attached with only one hand – no additional tools are required for simple installation.

Leoch batteries have been installed on the narrowboat Old Nick, built by Rob Howdle at OrtoMarine.

The move to go electric by owner Paul Sumpner led to 24 x 2V LC-800 batteries from Leoch Battery UK being installed.

“I figured we will probably do no more than 300 days cruising a year and it will be rare that we get as low as 60% depth of discharge so, by my estimations, we should get a minimum of 10 years life out of the LC2 batteries,” said Paul.

“After about two months on the water in Old Nick, we found that if we set out with a fully charged set of batteries, we had approximately 23KWh of power or 480Ah at 48V before the batteries reach 40% SOC, even with zero solar power, which is never the case.

“To put this into cruising hours, at our preferred 800rpm cruising speed, we could cruise for 16 hours continuously.”

ESTIMATED 10 YEARS’ LIFE FROM BATTERIES

Electric propulsion messages added

He added: “With over 1,250 miles and 1,050 locks under our belts, our battery bank is performing as well as the day it was installed, despite perhaps a half dozen

discharges down to 40% SOC and one discharge that went as low as 29% SOC.

“The LC2s seem very happy to go for long periods with partial state of

80%).”

The National Marine Electronics Association has released new NMEA 2000 messages (PGNs) to accommodate a growing electric propulsion and battery management market.

The battery is a Group 31 Six new PGNs have been added to NMEA 2000 standard, Appendix B, which manufacturers can use to implement into electric motor controls and status via NMEA 2000-certified control boxes and multi-function displays.

“The volunteer NMEA 2000 Electric Propulsion working group members spent countless hours ingesting, digesting and reviewing the technical minutiae that is needed to get it right,” said Mark Oslund, NMEA director of standards.

Mark Reedenauer, NMEA president and executive director, added: “As electric propulsion continues to expand, the MFD remains the command centre of the vessel. “The NMEA 2000 standard has become the vehicle for vessel data of all types to be viewed and controlled from multiple MFDs on board.

“Adopting the NMEA 2000 Standard saves electric propulsion and battery manufacturer resources by partnering with certified MFD manufacturers and utilising their display to view data from motors and batteries.”

8 The narrowboat Old Nick has been fitted with batteries from Leoch Battery UK

charge (typically between 60% and

8 New NMEA 2000 messages have been added to accommodate a growing market

Individual wiring no longer required

4,500 BATTERY CYCLES FROM NEW BATTERY

The new marine battery from Pylontech Technologies has been developed to provide reliability, power and performance while also being lighter in weight, and having a high cyclic capacity.

Molabo has launched a new connection box.

The MOLAConnect Box has been re-cabled with the aim of halving the installation required of a ISCAD V50 48V inboard system, allowing the fitting of the system to be completed in a day.

Previously, individual wiring was necessary for components such as prechargers, 12V chargers, relays and fuses. This is now all pre-wired in the MOLAConnect Box.

The motor and battery cables are connected to termination points in the MOLAConnect Box and a DC busbar is integrated for this purpose.

Other operating elements such as key switches, lights and emergency stop can be connected using terminal connections.

For further time savings, Molabo also offers preconfigured and preconditioned Mastervolt battery banks in its system solution.

The software of the batteries is set with regards to system behaviour and configuration. Calibration to the battery cells is performed during production by a one-time charge and discharge cycle meaning the batteries can be installed immediately after delivery and subjected to a final function test.

The system is certified according to the Recreational Craft Directive 2013/53/EU (RCD).

The new RT 12100G31 is a 100Ah 12-volt lithiumion battery from Pylon Technologies, using lithiumiron phosphate zcell technology, an embedded battery management system and mechanical design, with no maintenance required.

The battery is half the weight of an equivalent capacity lead acid battery with twice the power of a conventional design. Owners can also use all of the available 100aH capacity.

It has a cyclic capacity of more than 4,500 cycles, an in-built heating film

technology, that allows it to perform at temperatures as low at minus 40 degrees Celsius.

Other key features include auto-balance, which means that those who need

more capacity can connect additional RT 12100G31 batteries in parallel.

The battery also incorporates RS485, CAN, Bluetooth and Dry Connect for data transmission.

8 Pylontech’s latest battery has a high cyclic capacity

NEW DEEP CYCLE STARTER BATTERY

RELiON’s latest lithium starter battery is the B100-HP.

The battery is a Group 31 12V, 100Ah deep cycle lithium-Ion battery built for starting and cycling of marine and RV applications.

The RB100-HP has increased peak amps for starting motors, electric start generators and other high-amp-draw devices.

It can also double as a house battery, powering peripherals, accessories a nd more.

The new enhanced version features six terminals versus the two on standard batteries, offering users more flexibility when connecting electronics to the battery. The battery includes an IP67 ingress protection rating.

Other improvements

include an atmospheric vent added to the top of the case that equalises pressure while preventing contaminants from entering the battery; glue channel to ensure IP67

seal; screw latched closure to ensure seal longevity; and tied rope with handle guides that replace ultrasonically welded straps to improve durability.

8 The RB100-HP has increased peak amps for starting motors

The battery has six terminals allowing users more flexibility for connection.

The Pylontech RT 12100G31 is available from wholesalers supplied by battery distributor Ecobat Battery.

8 The new connection box from Molabo

Marine Energy Systems has installed a WhisperPower OctoPower system at Southampton City College’s Marine Skills Centre to give the students a realistic electrical system to learn from.

The college had been considering how best to help students learn power generation control and fault-finding and fixing and, invited MES to supply and fit the WhisperPower OctoPower system which is designed to provide low emission power for vessels with 230V 50Hz systems.

The brief was to provide a system to simulate as closely as possible a marine installation, providing an off-grid power option enabling the classroom to become a virtual boat.

The system comprises: 8kVA diesel generator with 24V 150A output, a bank of LiPO4 lithium batteries, remote monitoring system, solar panels with regulator, 4kW inverter, safety switchgear for the battery

MES GIVES STUDENTS A TASTE OF THE FUTURE

8 The WhisperPower OctoPower system in situ at Southampton City College’s Marine Skills Centre

system, grid powered battery charger and a custom-made tower to mount the equipment.

The diesel generator is mounted within a modified building outside the classroom, remote from the grid, with its own radiator for cooling, dry exhaust, fuel supply and cranking battery.

MES also designed and manufactured a mobile bench comprising a VFD driven electric motor powered by the grid. The motor drives a 24V 40A alternator with standard AGM batteries, simulating a boat’s diesel engine turning an alternator which provides charge for the lithium batteries.

Hydrogen batteries for high-performance marine power

A Chinese start-up has developed hydrogen batteries specifically to cater for high power marine electric motors.

Explomar’s HEDB125 batteries stand out for their low weight and a density of 250 Wh/kg per single cell, which translates into a battery pack density of 175 Wh/kg.

The new battery pack is suitable for powering one or more 300 HP outboard motors produced by the same company, but it’s also suitable for many other types of installations.

It’s equipped with a closed circuit cooling system which make it possible to have charge and discharge capacities higher than traditional systems, helping provide longer life of the battery pack.

To guarantee reliability and safety standards at the highest levels, Explomar said it has used the same batteries already used in the automotive sector by manufacturers of high-value and highperformance vehicles.

As far as recharging is concerned, the pack is compatible with widespread rapid recharge systems for land vehicles and marinas which have recharging systems on the quay.

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The Explomar company said it intends to actively cooperate with pleasure craft manufacturers to promote both the initial motorisation of new boats and retrofitting, with its 300hp outboard electric motors associated with the new HEDB125 battery pack.

ExploMar’s purpose in China is to assist manufacturers of public vessels and port workboats in meeting their decarbonisation requirements as part of the government’s carbon neutrality agenda.

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Five operating modes

Mastervolt’s new 120V AC CombiMaster series is an inverter/charger providing power solutions for any offgrid system.

The units are designed to provide reliable, efficient power conversion for all electrical needs.

Features include advanced transformerless technology for use with user-friendly interfaces that allow users to easily monitor and control their systems.

Using adaptive charging and five different operating modes, the power system is always optimised for peak performance.

Additionally, the automatic AC transfer system switches between generator or mains and inverter output, ensuring a constant power supply, and its power assist function prevents tripping of the mains fuse in case it’s connected to a weak grid power.

The CombiMaster is designed to integrate into network systems.

Its intelligent design communicates seamlessly with NMEA 2000, CZone, and MasterBus networks allowing full system functionality and communication between devices. It also enables critical functions and configurations to be managed from a range of digital displays.

The unit’s 3500W/ 4500W/ 5000W AC output exceeds standalone operation and allows parallel and split phase configurations for larger applications up to 35kW.

The new models include battery charging in 12V, 24V and 48V – 12/3500-200 and 24/3500-100, as well as 24/4500-120 HT and 48/5000-70 HT, which can operate at temperatures up to 176 degrees Fahrenheit.

BOATBUILDER ACQUIRES ELECTRONICS COMPANY

Sanlorenzo has acquired a 49% share in design, production and installation of electronics and electrical systems company Sea Energy.

The boatbuilder says the transaction – at a cost of almost 2.7 million euros is strategically important and will provide benefits from Sea Energy’s knowledge aimed at developing projects in line with the sustainability of Sanlorenzo.

“I am glad to announce the investment of Sanlorenzo in Sea Energy, a strategic partner, which allows us to reach a further step in strengthening the supply chain,” said Massimo Perotti, Sanlorenzo chairman and CEO.

“Sea Energy has made innovation technology the key of its success, now representing an excellence of the territory.”

Winnebago Industries is to acquire Lithionics Battery, a lithium-ion battery solutions producer for recreational equipment and specialty vehicle markets.

Terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

Lithionics was founded in 2010 and provides advanced battery solutions that deliver ‘house power’ supporting internal electrical features and appliances for a variety of outdoor sectors.

The company’s battery technology is differentiated by its proprietary management software and certifications from underwriters Laboratories Solutions.

“The addition of Lithionics enhances Winnebago Industries’ ability to develop unique and diverse battery solutions across our portfolio, advancing our overall electrical

He added: “Sea Energy, in the last few years, has also developed a significant experience in the field of electric and hybrid

propulsion; this know-how is fully consistent with our ‘Road to 2030’ vision to develop innovative and sustainable technologies able to revolutionise the yachting.”

LITHIUM BATTERY MANUFACTURER ACQUISITION

Lithionics founder and CEO, Steve Tartaglia, added:

“By combining Lithionics’ differentiated battery systems and Winnebago Industries’ strong brands and innovation expertise, we will create a range of technologically superior products that will change the way people experience the outdoors – allowing them to bring the comfort of electricity with them wherever they travel.”

ecosystem, driving organic growth and supply chain security, reinforcing our technological competitive advantage and allowing us to capitalise on consumer

preferences for fully immersive, off-the-grid outdoor experiences,” said Winnebago Industries president and CEO Michael Happe.

The transaction is expected to later this year, subject to customary closing conditions.

Lithionics will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Winnebago Industries.

8 Massimo Perotti, Sanlorenzo chairman and CEO

8 Lithionics Battery is to be acquired by Winnebago Industries

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Sunseeker International has appointed a sustainability and environmental manager as part of its wider commitment to long-term sustainable development.

Sean Dempsey joins Sunseeker with more than 35 years of experience in the automotive industry, working on sustainability projects within the BMW Group.

“This key appointment has enabled Sunseeker to progress the company’s sustainable growth in a complex landscape,” said Andrea Frabetti, Sunseeker CEO.

“The focus of our new environmental and sustainability manager is to optimise our production facilities and work in collaboration with our design, engineering, and operations teams to develop strategies that will see Sunseeker advance its sustainability journey.”

Sean added: “Together with a dedicated sustainable business committee, we are proactively working on multiple projects across the business and look forward to building on the fantastic initiatives already in place.”

Sunseeker has been certified to the ISO 14001 International Environmental Management System for more than 10 years and has implemented several environmental initiatives including installing biomass boilers at two of its production facilities.

The Port of London’s deputy harbour master, Miles Featherstone, has been appointed Falmouth’s harbour master designate, shadowing the current HM Duncan Paul until his retirement early in 2024.

Miles has worked for more than a decade on the management of 95 miles of the Tidal Thames rising from marine trainee to deputy harbour master – with major events falling under his management through the Port of London Authority including the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, and the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race start.

He will join Falmouth Harbour in early June 2023 and will be involved in running the harbour’s schedule of events including regattas and cruise ship visits.

“We are excited to be building our team during such a monumental season on the water,” said Falmouth Harbour CEO Miles Carden. “The safety of our harbour users, visitors and community underpins everything we do, and Miles will be an instrumental part of the team in all of this. It is an incredibly exciting time for our Harbour as we look to the horizon for new commercial opportunities.”

Barton Marine has promoted Dermot Bealey to the newly formed position of production director.

Dermot previously worked as production and operations manager with his greatest achievement to date at Barton being the introduction of an all-new block range in 2019 with more than 1,000 products introduced to the market simultaneously. As director, he will continue to oversee all elements of delivering the Barton range to sailors worldwide.

“I think we are entering a very exciting time at Barton; we have lots of new products in the pipeline and are continually improving our production processes,” he said. “We have new team members who are bringing fresh ideas and as always, we are working closely with our growing customer base and distributor network around the world.

Suzanne Blaustone, Barton Marine CEO, added: “Dermot has been a considerable driving force behind innovation across the product range since joining us.

“As my chief adviser along with his achievements and insight at Barton, a director’s position in the business is well deserved.”

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems has appointed Bryan Stewart as sales manager for the central and northern areas of the UK and Wales.

He will focus on business development as well as supporting the company’s offices in Southampton and Lossiemouth in Scotland.

“We’ve known Bryan for several years, working closely with him on the Seabin Project,” said Oliver Shortall, MD at ICMS. “We’re now building on that relationship to work together on our primary business of creating high-quality pontoon and breakwater systems for leisure and commercial use.”

Bryan joins ICMS having previously worked in sales and marketing roles for several marine companies including Wave International, the Seabin Project and Gill.

“I am really pleased to come on board at Inland and Coastal Marina Systems,” Bryan said. “Oliver and his team have built a highly respected brand with a fantastic reputation for the highest quality and service, and I am looking forward to playing my part in the next phase of the business’ growth.”

Sean Dempsey Sunseeker

Miles

Featherstone

Falmouth Harbour

Dermot Bealey Barton Marine

Bryan Stewart Coastal Marina Systems

PROFILE

Ashley Highfield

Oyster Yachts, CEO

Earlier in 2023, Ashley Highfield was appointed CEO of Oyster Yachts, having first joined the company around in 2018 as a board member.

And with a background in technology and project management, Ashley says his skills are totally transferable to his new role.

His varied career has included working with PwC for six years out of university.

Later, after some time as a chartered engineer, he transferred into media and technology, working for what became Virgin Media on the TV and internet side, before he moved to the BBC, where as a board director he was responsible for the organisation’s tech, internet, and digital services.

His career continued to Microsoft UK where he was MD and then onto running a large publishing business before he was asked by Richard Hadida who had bought Oyster Yachts, to join him as chairman at the boatbuilder.

“I’ve had a pretty busy career, but the discipline of building boats is in many ways similar.

“Internet systems, websites and engineering principles are similar in the boat building industry.”

And he admits that while sailing is his hobby and he has been on many sailing holidays, he’s well aware of what he doesn’t know.

“I try not to second guess. Instead, I have tried to build a team of people who are experts and know what they’re doing. I’m coming to this with a passion for Oyster.

“I’m looking at it with the right motivation at creating a long-term sustainable business.

“We have to build what the customer wants, on time and to budget. I have to

keep a level of detachment. At the end of the day, it’s a business.”

Focus

And he points out that the focus should be on the yacht buyers and keeping them informed as to the progress being made on their yacht build, engaging with the customers.

“Having come from a communications background, I want to make sure I communicate with our staff and with owners, giving them the certainty they’ll get their yachts when they want them.”

And he points out that customer’s expectations should be exceeded, not just up to the delivery of their yacht but also after the handover.

“Having owners who are keen is the best way of selling yachts. We need to engage with them and, it sounds like a cliché, but we need to create a family.

“We’ve got to make everything a bit easier for our owners; maybe we could offer finance or create an app so that all of our owners will be able to use

to see where their servicing is with us. It’s not rocket science. We expect it with everything else.”

Ashley believes another important factor is to make clear, and wherever possible, quick decisions, even if the answer is ‘no’.

“The thing that kills business is when we prevaricate, it’s the thing that kills deals. Nothing kills a sale better than spending a long time to get in contact.”

This is advice that he was taught by one of his mentors, the BBC director general Greg Dyke.

“I’ve been lucky enough to have had a few great

mentors over the years, with my old boss at the BBC, director general Greg Dyke standing out as a genuine ‘people person’ who taught me the importance of good communication, outside but especially inside the business.”

Decisions

And while he says he’s too new into the CEO role to start handing out the advice, he believes leadership teams should be empowered to make and own decisions.

When it comes to changes taking place in the marine industry, Ashley says customers are asking

for greener technology and it’s as important to recognise this.

“It’s increasingly critical to pay equal attention both to the demand for new technology – this could be fixed Biminis with solar panels coupled with lithium battery charging impellors - as well as the traditional craftsmanship and attention to quality, detail, and blue water sailing performance.

“We need to introduce innovations that fit with our brief of sustainable adventurers.”

Ashley adds: “At the end of the day they are GRP boats but when you look at the lifetime usage of the boat, Oyster has more of our boats still on the water and being used as a percentage built, with more miles cruised per year.”

And as for career highs – there have been many but two that stand out are developing and launching the BBC iPlayer and relaunching the i newspaper and then seeing sales go up.

“I get a real excitement when it comes to launching new products and the new product development side of the business.

“There has to be a willingness to take risks and do things differently, and I hope to do the same with Oyster.”

8 Ashley Highfield with some of the Oyster team

8 Oyster is introducing sustainable technologies

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