Boating Business February 2023

SUNSEEKER’S FINANCES LOOK UP WITH LOSSES OF £21.2m

Founder dies Boss arrested pages 1-10

BoatLife

25% increase

Sunseeker’s losses totalled £21.2m in 2021 - down £4m on 2020, marking another challenging year for the boatbuilder.

However, revenue was up by 51% during the year.

In its last accounts and business review, the company said “2021 was another challenging year with Covid-19 continuing to have an impact.”

Supply issues, cancelled boat shows and the continued impacts of Brexit all had an impact. Despite this, there has been ‘no identifiable effect’ on the export of boats.

Overall, when compared with 2020, revenue grew from £140.6m to £212.8m.

The company also reduced retained losses from £25.5m in 2020 to £21.2m in 2021.

But the gross margin was down from 6.6% in 2020 to 5.7% in 2021.

Sunseeker’s order book helped generate £17.5m of

operating cash in 2021, compared to an outflow of £19.8m in 2020. A growing orderbook at the end of the year and new products coming on line are providing the company with cause for optimism.

Improved cash position has enabled the boatbuilder to invest in new models, namely the Predator 65 and 100 Yacht in 2022 - with the production line of the latter, sold out until 2024.

Going into 2023, the company stands in good stead with the launch of the much-anticipated Superhawk 55.

As in previous years, Sunseeker’s major shareholder Dalian Wanda said it remains ‘closely engaged’ in operations and has provided a letter of support to the company should it require funding in future.

New CEO for Oyster Yachts

Ashley Highfield has been appointed as the new CEO of Oyster Yachts.

Ashley, who was previously executive chairman, has been fulfilling the interim CEO role since September 2022. He will be replaced as chair of the Oyster Yachts board by Richard Hadida.

“One could say that this is the ultimate job swap, as Richard was previously CEO,” explained Ashley. “This new structure will give Richard the opportunity to concentrate

on new product development and the future range of our yachts, while I will concentrate full-time on this new CEO role, building on the excellent work of the past four years, with this next phase in Oyster Yachts’ voyage.”

Ashley has previously headed many of Britain’s leading organisations including as BBC’s main board director for New Media and Technology, responsible for the development and launch of BBCiPlayer and the growth of BBC Online.

Angling village pages 16-19

Safety

Lithium extinguisher

Supplier status pages 20-23

8 Reception of the 100 Yacht has been particularly good with the production line sold out until 2024

Welcome on Board!

Marathon has been a mainstay of the UK marine equipment distribution since 1992, offering premium customer service based on flexibility and a strong supplier/customer relationship. Already partner to all best-in-class marine equipment brands, Marathon now teams up with French sister company Plastimo to offer additional safety, mooring, personal equipment, navigation and deck equipment. Marathon’s streamlined business practices combined with an innovative approach to sales are totally aligned with the philosophy and synergetic strategy of both Plastimo and mother company Alliance Marine, enabling Marathon to be at the forefront of marine distribution in the UK.

©JM

Liot

/ Thibault Desplats

FINE FOR PAINT MANUFACTURER

Boat shows need to educate

The overriding topic at this year’s Dusseldorf boat show was green technology and sustainability.

The newly established Blue Innovation Dock in association with content partner the European Boating Industry, provided a platform, with topics ranging from sustainable propulsion to circular materials discussed.

Over the last few months, the leisure marine industry has noticeably stepped up a gear and is making a concerted effort to shift towards more sustainable practices and the use of cleaner fuels and boat shows need to continue to help fuel this transition, helping to change boaters’ attitudes and provide educational opportunities.

It is happening – but slowly. This year for the first time ever, there will be an Electric Pavilion at Miami International Boat Show and here in the UK, the Green Tech Boat Show will form a key part of the South Coast Boat Show.

Sailing is generally seen as a sustainable sport due to its contact with nature – sailors see the direct impact humans have on our planet with the increase in waste and plastics in the oceans.

International Paint has been fined £650,000 after toxic chemicals were washed from a holding tank into an estuary in a Special Area of Conservation.

International Paint, owned by multi-national AkzoNobel, appeared before Plymouth Crown Court in October 2022, where, at the end of a nineday hearing, it was found guilty on two charges.

The company had denied both offences relating to the discharge of hazardous waste from a tank located on the quay at its Newton Ferrers paint testing facility.

The case had been adjourned until January for sentencing.

International Paint had run a testing facility for its paints including marine anti-fouling paints on the River Yealm in Devon since 1928.

An investigation by the Environment Agency was launched after the company tried to sell the premises in 2015 and possible pollution was reported by Simon Friend of

Red Earth Developments.

The investigation found evidence that tributyltin (TBT) - used as a coating to prevent the build-up of organisms and plants on marine hulls - along with copper, arsenic and mercury, had been present in sediment in the tank at the site and some of this sediment had escaped out into the estuary.

TBT was banned from use on small vessels in the UK in the late 1980s and banned completely worldwide during the 2000s.

A bung on another tank was found to have come out leaving it open to the estuary, before it was eventually permanently sealed with concrete. The company denied having caused the discharge of the sediment into the estuary but did not answer what had happened to it.

The judge said International Paint had operated a ‘reckless system’ and failed to control the management of TBT.

And he said the chemical

was only discharged when a potential purchaser for the site came along and the presence of TBT in the tanks was a serious problem.

The judge said he was satisfied a caretaker flushed the contents of the tank into the river which prior to the incident had been a ‘pristine environment’.

Dr Michael Waldock, an expert whose work led to the banning of TBT, found that nine out of 11 samples exceeded the safe limit for TBT and that, close to the site, one sample contained 80,000 times the safe level. He concluded that the TBT levels in the estuary were sufficient to have had a major toxic effect on marine life there.

In addition to the fine, International Paint was ordered to pay costs of £145,000. The company also agreed to cover costs of remediation works, likely to be at least £500,000.

But while some aspects of boating are becoming greener and progress is being made, the question remains as to whether this is happening fast enough. A very small minority of the boats themselves are made of recyclable materials, though this is an area that boatbuilders are looking at. Innovation Yachts won the Ocean Tribute Award 2023 for the world’s first completely recyclable and sustainable catamaran made of composite material for series production and Green Boats is another example, but this aspect of boating still has a long way to go.

According to figures from the EBI, between 30,000 and 40,000 boats will reach their end of life every year by 2030 with a potential annual recycling need of 23,100 – 30,800 tons every year.

In France, 72% of waste from dismantled boats in France is subject to recycling but other countries are still lagging behind and that still leaves 28% that is not recycled.

The technology is developing, but is more regulation needed? Should there be requirements for manufacturers to think about the end of the life of the boat when it’s being designed and built?

World Sailing says by the 2032 Olympics, competing boats will be manufactured from a majority of recycled and recyclable components, but it also says it has no idea how this will be achieved.

Answers lie in developing technology and for prices to come down. And for that to happen, manufacturers will need to drive the process.

If boat shows continue to educate the end user, then maybe there will be more of a push for manufacturers to do this.

We need to think beyond reducing our negative impact and also look at how to increase our positive impact.

8 Newton Creek is in a Special Area of Conservation, Photo courtesy Yealm Harbour Authority

Some aspects of boating are becoming greener, and progress is being made

BRIEFS Launch

Boatshed.com has launched a yacht charter service. Online yacht broker Boatshed.com has launched a new charter service, BoatshedCharter, that will allow boaters to charter boats in three Greek locations. The service has launched with an initial 47 boats - monohull and catamaran - and a range of manufacturers including Jeanneau, Beneteau, Lagoon, Hanse, BALI and Dehler.

Acquisition

BWA Yachting has acquired SOS Yachting, a multinational yacht charter financial agency that recently celebrated its tenth anniversary.

SOS Yachting was established in 2012 to provide financial representation services for EU and non-EU yachtowning companies that charter within the EU. The company manages more than 600 regular worldwide customers and has offices in France, Spain, Italy, and Croatia with plans to open a fifth in Monaco.

Decision

Sailing will not be reinstated for the LA28 Paralympic Games. The International Paralympic Committee’s governing board made the decision after assessing applications from International Federations wanting a place. The decision has been met with dismay from the RYA which has been working to reinstate the sport into the games. Other events are including Paralympic sailing with the 2023 Allianz Sailing World Championships the first championship event.

boot Düsseldorf 2023 saw nearly 237,000 visitors from more than 100 countries with more than 1,500 exhibitors from 68 nations on 220,000sqm in 16 exhibition halls.

The exhibition was forced to take a three-year break due to the Covid pandemic, and organisers say despite this and the difficult general conditions, the show was a success.

“We would not have dreamt of this outcome. boot has finally reached calm waters and is once again firmly anchored in its Düsseldorf home port,” said boot director Petros Michelidakis.

“The visits paid to exhibitors were incredibly good, viewing appointments on the boats completely booked up and the companies reported a large number of boat and accessory sales.”

Speaking on behalf of the German Marine Federation, MD Karsten Stahlhut summed up the situation in the industry: “Due to the ongoing crises since 2020 and two cancelled boot shows

boot DÜSSELDORF REBOOTS

all of us started the trade fair with mixed feelings.

“Overall, however, for most, expectations were not only met, but exceeded in every respect. A strong boot in January is always an indication for a good year. I am convinced it will prove better than we thought only a few weeks ago.”

The show’s new sustainability forum ‘blue

innovation dock’ was one of the new features, with industry, policymakers and international associations meeting for dialogue and exchange.

“It proved a big success for the trade fair and opened a fascinating new perspective for the boating industry for a sustainable future,” said Philip Easthill, Secretary General of the European Boating

8 boot Düsseldorf has rebooted after a three-year break

Industry. “The presence of over 110 high-calibre speakers ranging from CEOs to political decision-makers emphasises the importance of sustainability for water sports.”

8 boot will return to Düsseldorf from 20 to 28 January 2024.

RETAIL SALES TO SLIDE IN 2023

US marine industry retail sales are expected to be to be down in 2023 versus 2022, with premium segments performing better than certain value segments.

That’s the guidance provided by Brunswick as the organisation released its fourth quarter and full year results.

Net sales of between $6.8 billion and $7.2 billion are expected with an adjusted operating margin of around 15%.

Operating expenses are expected to be flat and increase slightly as a percent of sales.

The organisation reported a strong performance in the fourth quarter, capping an ‘outstanding’ 2022 in which Brunswick delivered record sales, operating margins,

and operating earnings, said David Foulkes, Brunswick CEO. For the first time in company history, boat business’ full year adjusted operating margin exceeding 10%.

Exceptional

“Our exceptional operating performance and cost containment in a challenging macro-economic environment continues to highlight the strength of our businesses, our leaders, and

the durability of our portfolio and earnings profile,” said David.

The propulsion business performed strongly, with high sales and operating margins, particularly for engines over 300hp.

Parts and accessories returned to a more normal seasonality in the last quarter of 2022, though

still delivered earnings and margin growth as anticipated.

Sales were impacted by certain headwinds, however, on a full year basis, revenue was down less than 1% versus a record 2021.

The legacy Navico business saw strong growth and the boat business delivered ‘exceptional’ topline and earnings growth in the quarter, reaching 10.2% full-year adjusted operating margins, while continuing to ensure healthy pipeline inventory levels into 2023.

Freedom Boat Club also had another strong quarter, continuing to integrate its 2022 acquisitions while growing membership and attracting a younger and increasingly diverse customer base.

8 Brunswick expects to see net sales of between $6.8 billion and $7.2 billion in 2023

Ron Berry, the founder of Wilks (Rubber Plastics), has passed away, just days before his 90th birthday.

Ron, together with his wife Marie, founded Wilks in 1973 from a shed in their back garden in Witham, Essex, initially buying and selling fendering extrusions.

After relocating to Tollesbury in Essex a couple of years later, Wilks began to extrude its own profiles and developed into one of the world’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of boat fendering, and in later years synthetic decking.

For many years Wilks has also manufactured the checkout bumpers for some of the UK’s major supermarkets.

Wilks, now in its 50th year, still maintains the virtues of a family run company that Ron instilled from the beginning.

Having been run by his sons, Chris and Scott for many years, Wilks was

WILKS FOUNDER DIES

BRIEFS

Generators

Fairline Yachts has chosen the Paguro variable speed range of generators to fit on its Squadron and Targa 45 and 50ft models. The units chosen are the 9000V and 12000V models which provide power to drive Fairline’s boat systems and provide comfort for owners and guests. The generators offer the benefits of both high speed and low speed generators - at quiet times when loads are light, they slow down and when demand is high they speed up producing more power.

Supply

bought by its customer, Flexiteek, in 2019 and is now part of the supplier of synthetic decking for the

Marlow Ropes is to supply the forthcoming Clipper Round the World Yacht Race with its sustainably made and recyclable running rigging. The agreement builds on a 20-year partnership between the two organisations and will be the first time the eleven-strong fleet has used this type of rigging. Throughout the relationship, Marlow Ropes has been able to research, develop and refine its products in the ultimate R&D setting – a 40,000-mile circumnavigation of the world’s oceans.

Landfill

Mercury Marine has added five distribution centres to its list of zerowaste-to-landfill (ZWTL) operations. The centres - four centres operated by Mercury subsidiary Land ‘N’ Sea and another centre on Mercury’s headquarters campus in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, have reduced, reused and recycled waste materials to comply with the ZWTL standards.

8 Ron and Marie Berry founded Wilks in 1973

leisure boat industry. Flexiteek was founded in 2013 and introduced Flexiteek 2G in 2014.

BRIEFS

Strategic

Lifting Gear & Safety

(LGS) which includes the dedicated marine safety section LGS Marine, has been acquired by Axel Johnson International’s business group –Lifting Solutions. Axel Johnson International is a global industrial group, that acquires and develops companies in strategically selected niche markets, primarily technical components and industrial process solutions. The acquisition is a step in driving the LGS business forward with the aim of securing its position as a leading provider of specialist lifting and marine safety equipment.

Office

Lizard Yacht Service is to open a new office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to service superyacht customers in the USA and the Caribbean. The announcement follows on from an expansion with a new office in Palma, Mallorca, last year to service superyacht customers in the Mediterranean. The company launched in Spring 2021 and since then has taken on major projects in Antigua and Turkey, secured sole European distributor rights for the SeaClean System, and been appointed as the Wills Ridley servicing centre for the Balearic Islands.

Customers

Antenna manufacturer Shakespeare Marine has appointed PAINE as its new Italian distributor. PAINE was founded more than 35 years’ ago and supplies leisure and technical equipment to naval and industrial electronic customers.

£200m INVESTMENT PLANNED

Plans to transform Southampton’s Town Quay into a world-class waterfront with bars, restaurants and a nine-storey hotel are to go out to public consultation.

Nicolas James Group, which built the Harbour Hotel in Southampton’s Ocean Village, wants to redevelop the area with a £200 million investment.

Plans include a new marina, up to 500 flats, parking, restaurants and a new hotel and spa facilities.

Outline plans have been submitted to the council and if approved work could

start in 2024. Other plans include strengthening the pier and reclamation of land for construction of flats and basement car parking. A new public

New Thames Vision masterplan for 2050

The Port of London Authority (PLA) has begun a major masterplanning exercise to realise growth opportunities along the Thames.

thoroughfare could also be built.

The areas occupied by the Red Funnel terminal, the Royal Pier and Mayflower Park will not be affected.

THEPERSONBEHINDTHEFACE

Kim Hollamby

How I got into this industry... our family were traditional baby boomer industry customers; Dad got the boating bug, the rest us followed with various degrees of initially guarded enthusiasm. Many adventures followed on a succession of sailing dinghies and yachts. Later, after three valuable but dead-ended steps towards a career, I grabbed the opportunity to combine a passion with work and join Motor Cruiser magazine and Canal & Riverboat at AE Morgan Publications, where my dad worked. He mentored me for 18 months and then encouraged me to say yes when headhunted to work on Motor Boats Monthly just as it was starting up. I was its editor three years later.

Best advice I’ve ever received...

I’ve lucky to have received lots of great advice over the years, but I’d pick that push from my dad to join Motor Boats Monthly. Having his

son leave the company he worked for to join a competitor was brave on my dad’s part, but he didn’t hesitate to encourage me to take a chance that later established my future.

One thing the industry needs less of is... talking itself into a recession. Indications are pointing towards tough times ahead and you must get fit to survive a downturn. However, if you duck too early, you may not get see the invaluable opportunities that can make a difference when things get harder.

Most hated buzzword or workplace expression... ‘low hanging fruit’ – I understand the principle behind the saying but it hints at a lazy smash and grab approach that judges anything hard as valueless.

Don't worry about...

a thing ’cause every little thing gonna be alright. My wife and I respite care children who have in some cases have already faced more challenges and traumas than we have over a much longer lifespan.

There’s always a solution somehow, often in the most unexpected ways.

Favourite meal...

much easier to describe what I don’t like, as my fender-like torso will attest. I’d say any nicely prepared dish with fresh ingredients that you can share with good company on the deck of a boat.

One thing I couldn’t live without... my wife and family.

How I cope with stress...

Walking. Pacing out into a forest nearby our house is the perfect screen break.

Something about you that people might be surprised by...

I am the principal euphonium player in a local brass band. I got to Grade 8 distinction in my youth but work later got in the way. I picked the euphonium up again four years ago and music is another great stress reliever – until I play a solo. Turns out I’m not quite as fearless as I was in my teens.

Kim Hollamby is Partner at Hollamby Partnership

The aim of Thames Vision 2050 is to help grow watersports actvities, cargo and passenger activities on the river, while protecting the natural environment.

“The Vision sets out the high-level ambitions for the river,” explained James Trimmer, director of planning and development at the PLA. ”Once complete, it will equip us with a clear spatial articulation of the ambition set out in the vision, informing future planning and investment decisions.”

River development

The river is already home to the UK’s largest port and busiest inland waterway, a crucible for sporting talent and a unique natural habitat.

Thames Vision 2050 sets out future priorities for the river around three themesmaking the Thames into the UK’s number one net zero trading centre, providing a destination for people to live, visit and play and protecting the environment, including supporting the river’s diverse wildlife.

The masterplan will be developed with, and is expected to become a key tool for, partners and local authorities along the Thames.

It’s part of the Vision Action Plan, which has already seen the PLA committing to develop a new marine control centre at its main base in Gravesend, its largest single investment in more than ten years.

Masterplan development will be advanced at local level over the next 18 months with a river wide consultation taking place once it has been developed.

MARINA GROUP SECURES NEW FUNDING TO EASE CASHFLOW

The company behind a network of marinas across Wales said the £35m it plans to raise from a new corporate bond will address cashflow issues.

Cardiff-based Marine & Property Group admitted that it had fallen behind on paying wages but said that the situation was in hand. The group, which manages Cardiff, Burry Port, Aberystwyth and Port Dinorwc marinas, has also been criticised for its perceived failure to maintain Burry Port Harbour.

Director of MPG Chris

Odling-Smee said wage backlogs had now been paid. “Some salaries remain outstanding, but not the same ones that were reported on because they’re covered and it’s just the next period now,” he said.

And he blamed current problems on rapid growth which had caused disruption to cashflow. “You can be trading really well and growing really well but cashflow is king,” he said, adding that the company had learnt lessons.

He also highlighted caution in the lending

market. “Access to capital is more challenging than it has been perhaps previously because there’s a lot of caution out there,” he said.

“That’s partly why we’re putting in a mid-market bond because we see a lot of turmoil in the bank lending market over the next 24 months one way or the other.”

The company told Boating Business that there are exciting times ahead with more details to be released later this month.

OCEAN TRIBUTE AWARD WINNER 2023

Innovation Yachts has won the Ocean Tribute Award 2023 for the world’s first completely recyclable and sustainable catamaran made of composite material for series production.

The IY LBV35 is the first model in a new series of sustainable and fully recyclable boats and is electrically powered by solar energy as well as hydrogenator.

As an optional feature, the catamaran has a marine cleaning system, which means that it can lower a trampoline in front when sailing to collect floating garbage.

In addition, the company also guarantees to buy back all building materials - vulcanised fibre, balsa wood (FSC) and organic

epoxy resin - from the customer in case of damage or at the end of the product life cycle.

A jury of experts from science and research as well as representatives of foundations and boot Düsseldorf screened the applicants for the award and selected a shortlist of five projects.

The jury placed particular

emphasis on the practical effectiveness of the project, the involvement of as many people as possible in the initiative, and networking with other ocean activists.

The prize is awarded by the Prince Albert II Foundation, the German Ocean Foundation and boot Düsseldorf.

I am just searching for the ONE that will: keep my boat fouling free save me from re-painting every year save me money save on fuel save the environment

Is it really too much to ask???

8 Burry Port Harbour in Carmarthenshire

Photo: ICE Wales

8 Innovation Yachts has won the Ocean Tribute Award 2023

Cardinal Sin

Well having spent a few days recovering from nine days at boot Dusseldorf, I have become quite reflective.

The event, noted as the world’s largest water sports trade fair and back after a three-year break (where did that time go…) was certainly buzzing while I ghosted around the halls. How fantastic to see the smiling, enthusiasm and crowds and also the exhibitors enjoying the experience.

With visitor numbers exceeding 230,000 from over 100 countries seeing 1,500 companies spread over 16 halls, you certainly got your money’s worth.

I certainly did not hear anyone complaining about the entry price at this event.

From an exhibitor’s perspective there were no long lonely hours hanging around stands, trying not to get bored by playing UK ‘stand’ games. Added to which was the exhibitor party of enviable scale, showmanship and inclusion (but never talk to me about drink tokens again…).

My disappointment however comes from my shear frustration that despite the large number of British companies, we could not even organise a Brauereibesichtigung to promote ourselves, unlike the Association of Estonian Marine Industries.

A massive, missed opportunity to do some good and help market understanding and support.

Why are we still - three years on from Brexit - not appreciating that we must do so much better and promote the fact that we are actually a little bit good at what we do across the range of business we offer. When we work together, we are rather special.

That’s why I am disappointed in both myself and you, for not pushing more, and getting our act together outside of the UK.

A British man who founded and ran the yacht management company Master Yachts has been arrested in Spain on US criminal charges alleging that he helped a billionaire Russian oligarch evade sanctions relating to a US$90 million megayacht.

Richard Masters, 52, now faces extradition to the US on charges that he tried to hide Viktor Vekselberg’s 255ft luxury yacht, the Tango, from authorities.

Masters and a Russian national, Vladislav Osipov, 51, are charged in two unsealed separate indictments, with facilitating a sanctions evasion and operating a money laundering scheme in relation to the ownership and operation of the motor yacht.

An arrest warrant against Osipov is outstanding.

Masters ran a yacht management company in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. After Vekselberg was sanctioned in April 2018, Masters’s company took over the management of Tango, and conspired with others to evade the US sanctions.

The indictment alleges that both defendants used a variety of techniques to

YACHT MANAGEMENT BOSS ARRESTED

mask ownership of the yacht in violation of US law.

Complicated Osipov, an employee of Vekselberg who functioned as a property manager for Tango, designed a complicated ownership structure of shell companies to hide Vekselberg’s ownership of the yacht, despite that Vekselberg was the sole user and the ultimate beneficial owner.

It is alleged that Masters concocted a phony name, ’the Fanta’, for the yacht in

order to hide the yacht’s connection to Vekselberg.

According to the indictment, Osipov and Masters advised and enabled Tango employees to continue to do business with numerous US companies, using various workarounds to avoid sanctions, such as payments in other currencies and through third parties.

As a result of the schemes, hundreds of thousands of dollars of illegally obtained US services and equipment were supplied to Tango

by US companies for the benefit of Vekselberg, supported by US financial transactions and allowing Tango to continue to operate as a luxury yacht. Despite the alleged scheme, the yacht was seized by the authorities in April 2022 in Palma de Mallorca. The US imposed sanctions on Vekselberg in 2018 over alleged Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election, and in 2022 over his ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

WORLD’S FIRST HYDROGEN-ELECTRIC IMOCA YACHT UNDER CONSTRUCTION

The world’s first hydrogen fuel cell powered IMOCA race yacht is being built in France for a British skipper.

Phil Sharp, who heads sustainable sports management company OceansLab, will race the yacht in the 2024 Vendée Globe solo round the world yacht race.

The new monohull designed by Sam Manuard is under construction at Black Pepper Yachts, builders of highperformance boats. The build is using existing moulds that have been recycled and reworked.

It is due to be launched in the summer, ready for Phil

to compete in the IMOCA Globe Series starting with the Transat Jacques Vabre in autumn, followed by a return qualifying race for the Vendée Globe 2024.

Phil will aim to demonstrate scalable clean technologies within the

maritime sector.

“IMOCA race boats are the most innovative and extreme of ocean-going vessels. They are an ideal platform to showcase vital clean technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells, and prove their durability in the harshest of ocean environments,” explained Phil.

The yacht will incorporate hydrogen fuel cell technology, using to a hydrogen power module, created and developed by Genevos which produces fully integrated marine fuel cell packs.

It is believed to be the first race boat to integrate

a hydrogen-electric energy system. The system will power all on board energy, in addition to propulsion outside of the races.

“Replacing fossil fuel power with renewable energy solutions is an important step forward not only for our sport, but the entire maritime sector,” said Phil. “Ultimately, I am sailing to win races, while also proving that by using the latest clean technologies, this can be done with zero emissions.”

OceansLab will also be incorporate other sustainable materials recyclable composite materials and solar PV.

8 The luxury yacht Tango

8 Phil Sharp heads OceansLab and is a co-founder of Genevos

8 Richard Masters is the founder and director of Master Yachts

Photo courtesy CharterWorld

Photo courtesy Master Yachts

MARINA BERTHING PROFITS UP AS INDUSTRY RECOVERS FROM PANDEMIC

Silic One is The ONE.

The marina sector is recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic with profits from berthing soaring by nearly a third in 2021/22.

Berthing income is up, as is the sector’s contribution to the UK’s GDP with marina businesses optimistic about future prospects, according to the latest UK Marina and Mooring Market Report 2021-22 from British Marine.

“It is encouraging to see that despite increasing challenges from inflation and declining UK economic growth, marina businesses are optimistic about their market and that demand for berths remains above pre-pandemic levels,

with a number of marinas also looking to expand in the coming months,” commented Lesley Robinson, British Marine’s chief executive.

British Marine surveyed 173 marinas around the UK. Key findings include:

4 Revenues from marina berthing income grew 13% to £283m in 2021/22

4 Total gross profits related to marina berthing increased 32% to £55m

4 The sector’s direct contribution to UK GDP through marina berthing income increased 16% to £127m with its indirect contribution totalling £253 million.

Despite a gloomy economic outlook, marina businesses report being optimistic about their market, with 54% of members still positive about their company’s prospects and 56% of respondents reporting that demand for berths was above pre-pandemic levels.

With supply increasingly strained, 19% of marinas responding to the survey are looking to expand over the next 12 months, focusing on expansion of pontoon berths with only a small amount of dry storage planned.

42% INCREASE FOR MARINE PRODUCTS

Marine Products Corporation has seen a 42% increase in quarterly net sales.

For the quarter ended December 31 2022, net sales of $108.5 million were recorded, compared to $76.5 million in the same quarter of 2021.

The increase was due to a 29% increase in the number of boats sold during the quarter and a 12% increase in the average boat selling price.

The rise in sales has been put down to finishing and shipping substantially completed boats from inventory, as supply chain issues continued to improve.

“During the fourth quarter our supply chain and transportation issues continued to improve, allowing us to increase boat shipments to satisfy dealer demand for new 2023 models,” said Ben Palmer, Marine Products’ president and CEO. “In fact, our fourth quarter 2022 shipments were the highest of any quarter in 2022.

Average selling prices increased primarily due to a favourable model mix and price increases to cover increased costs including primarily materials and components.

Unit sales increased within the group’s

Chaparral’s models as well as many Robalo models.

Gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2022 was $27.3 million compared to $19.2 million in the same period in 2021.

Gross margin as a percentage of net sales was 25%.

Operating profit for the fourth quarter of 2022 was $14.8 million, an increase of 39% compared to operating profit of $10.7 million in the fourth quarter of last year.

Net sales for the 12 months ended December 31 2022, were a record $381.0 million, an increase of 28% compared to 2021.

8 Church Minshull Aqueduct Marina

BRIEFS Partnership

Yachting Ventures and GALAXIA Electric Boat Show have formed a partnership to discover and support startups working on CleanTech solutions that protect the BlueEconomy. The Portuguese show takes place in May and encompasses lifestyle and community alongside the latest electric boats and technology. Yachting Ventures will organise and provide a space for up to five startups to show their CleanTech solutions to a panel of investors and industry leaders, judged by national and international investors.

Dredging

The Marine and Property Group is being urged to change its dredging method to prevent a Welsh harbour and marina from completely silting up. Boats are regularly stuck in Burry Port Harbour in Carmarthenshire because the current approach known as water injection is inadequate, argues campaign group, Friends of Burry Port Harbour.

Circular

Beneteau is taking a circular economy approach to reduce the environmental impact of sailing by choosing greener alternatives for both build and propulsion. The First 44e and the Oceanis 30.1e sailing yachts are built with recyclable resin, electric or hybrid power and teak alternatives, a big step forward in the aim of achieving sustainable boatbuilding.

Logistics company Peters & May is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023.

Following one of its most successful years to date in 2022, Peters & May enters the landmark year by reporting strong optimism for continued growth.

Highlights of 2022 include the shipment of more than one billion US dollars of cargo value, with an increase in shipments across all of the lines of business Peters & May manages - racing, leisure and commercial marine business, general freight forwarding and courier services.

This resulted in the year seeing a sales increase of 47% year on year.

“We are incredibly proud of our heritage and delighted to celebrate this milestone by highlighting the story behind the company’s transformation into the trusted, reliable and experienced set up of today,” said CEO Simon Judson. “Our staff and teams have faced many challenges in these years, but, with commitment, passion for what we do, team spirit, and friendship and trust amongst colleagues, we have overcome some difficult past years.”

Following a three-year hiatus, marine manufacturer’s representative firm SailForce is taking to the road again in March to host four regional trade events around the UK.

The events provide an opportunity for customers to meet marine equipment manufacturers and distributors in a trade only environment to discuss plans for 2023, find out about pre-season launches and product updates, and receive event exclusive offers.

Teams from distributors and manufacturers, including Barrus, Ocean Safety, Typhoon, Dometic, Seasure, Orca Bay, Shoreside International (Holebrook, Pelle P, Searanch, Barz optics) will

50 YEARS FOR LOGISTICS COMPANY

The company was established in Reading in 1973 as a freight forwarding company, and today has a £60m turnover providing employment to 100 people globally across ten offices world-wide.

Over the decades, the company has faced many market pressures including the recession between 2007 and 2009, the implementation of US import tariffs in 2018, the 2016 Brexit vote and the UK’s exit from the European Union in 2020

together with the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the consequential sanctions imposed has dramatically affected the industry; with port closures, vessel seizures, further global price rises and a lack of ship and container availability worldwide, meaning ports really are stretched,” added Simon.

Peters & May has partnered with many prestigious events over the years, including the

Whitbread Round the World Race and The America’s Cup for which it provided yacht racing solutions.

In the 1990s, Peters & May relocated its headquarters to Southampton, and in subsequent years has established overseas offices in France, Spain, Fort Lauderdale, Palma, Hamburg, Genoa, Dubai, Netherlands and Singapore.

SAILFORCE REGIONAL TRADE EVENTS RETURN FOR 2023

be on hand throughout the events to answer any questions.

This is the 17th year that SailForce have hosted these events which will take place from 10am -4pm at

the following venues:

8 Plymouth - Boringdon Park Golf club – 14 March

8 Southampton – Royal Southern Yacht Club16 March

8 Ipswich – Royal Harwich

Yacht Club – 21 March

8 Glasgow – Gleddoch House Hotel – 23 March

The events are free to attend. To register, email marketing@sail-force.com or phone 01206 395673.

8 Peters & May is celebrating 50 years of trading in 2023

8 SailForce regional trade days are returning in 2023

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Sunseeker has developed a new open-top day boat which features a sleek design, detailing and powerful performance.

Powered by twin Volvo Penta D11 - IPS 950 engines matched with a hull form specifically designed for the IPS propulsion system, the Superhawk 55 is capable of powerful and agile performance.

Sunseeker says that the Superhawk 55 offers a ’taste of luxury and the thrill of speed and agility’ to all those who step on board.

Striking design

The Superhawk’s profile is a composition of an all-new composite hull, stainless steel detailing and expansive glazing.

A sculptured full-beam aft cockpit makes full use of the yacht’s sizeable width, benefitting from configurable seating and concealed appliances.

Helming takes place from the centre-line triple helm amidships. The dual glassbridge display screens

SUNSEEKER’S THRILLING NEW OPEN-TOP DAY BOAT

sit behind a stainlesscapped, curved windscreen that offers uninterrupted views and protection from the elements.

Side deck access sits forward adjacent to the helm, with pantograph doors to port and starboard, typical of a much larger yacht.

The open-ended aft features a sun pad with integrated water toys stowage under an electrically opening hatch. The foredeck offers a full-length sun pad, sliding forward to reveal a table and dedicated seating area. On the lower deck, there

is a luxurious open-plan saloon and galley area. The forward cabin benefits from an ensuite, upholstered units and a wardrobe on the port side.

The aft cabin comes with optional sliding berths offering a double or two singles and a generous

ensuite. Customers can choose from several interior schemes with a mix of contemporary textures and colours available.

NEXT GENERATION SPX SERIES LAUNCHED

Sea Ray has launched the next generation of its SPX Series, the European 2024 SPX 210.

The SPX 210 has a sporty new aesthetic with hull sculpting details along with classic Sea Ray style elements.

The model features a new curved windshield design for improved visibility and protection from the elements and is propelled by a Mercury MerCruiser 4.5L 250hp ECT engine.

“The all-new 2024 SPX 210 is Sea Ray’s first SPX to embody our cutting-edge design language and the first of our next-generation models to make its debut in Europe,” said Keith Yunger, Sea Ray president.

A full-sized ski locker compartment in the cockpit floor provides secure storage and at the stern, an

integrated swim platform helps re-entry to the boat.

Intuitive controls are within reach of the helmsperson and the helm is equipped with a standard 7in Simrad

digital display with Mercury VesselView Link. In addition, Mercury VesselView Mobile allows engine information to be monitored from a smart device. Technology

highlights include a Fusion Apollo SRX400 audio system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth and Apple AirPlay 2.

Several upgrade

packages are also available with extra accessories such as a Bimini top and bow filler cushion.

8 The all-new Superhawk 55 is a striking addition to the Sunseeker Performance range

Source: Sunseeker

8 Sea Ray European 2024 SPX 210

Photo courtesy Sea Ray

For the first time, an inflatable RIB from Lomac has recorded a top speed of over 60 knots in sea trials.

The GranTurismo 12.0 is powered by three of the latest Mercury Verado V10 engines, each rated 350hp.

“We’re extremely happy with this landmark result, which shows not only our boats’ constant innovation and evolution for over 60 years, but also the perfect ‘seaworthiness’ of the hulls and their geometries, designed to exploit the full potential of the latest generation engines, as in the case of the new Mercury Verado V10s,” said Paolo Lo Manto, sales manager at the Lombardy yard.

The Granturismo 12.0’s design and hull lines are by Federico Fiorentino, who has been working with the Lombardy yard for a decade.

Lomac’s in-house

The all-new Princess S72 is the latest addition to Princess Yachts’ S Class family.

The yacht is designed by the Princess Design Studio in collaboration with naval architects Olesinski and Italian design house Pininfarina.

Equipped with twin MAN V12 engines at 1650 or 1800hp and a resininfused deep-V hull, the S72 delivers performance and smooth handling at speeds of up to 36 knots.

An illuminated Princess ‘crown’ logo on the transom guides guests aboard the electro-hydraulic teak-laid bathing platform where twin access steps border the large aft sun pad.

The cockpit features a sociable U-shaped seating area with modular seating, folding teak table and servery unit.

The cockpit bar connects to the galley unit and triple-sliding saloon doors connect the exterior to interior. At the helm, two bespoke Princess helm seats are positioned for optimum visibility and

RIB REACHES SPEEDS OF 60 KNOTS

New dinghy completes the range

engineering team has produced an inflatable boat with a dual identity: comfortable when cruising and a racer when planing. The hull is a vacuum infused laminated hull - vinyl ester resin and neopentyl gelcoat while the

distinguishing feature of the 12m rib is its fibreglass and composite T-top, with fabric-covered openings for optimum ventilation and protection against the sun. An open forward section has a sunpad that can be turned into a dining table,

while the stern has a large fold-away table.

There is also a cabin with a double bed and separate bathroom.

LATEST ADDITION TO S CLASS FAMILY

The new Tiwal 3R is a sport version of the inflatable Tiwal sailing dinghy.

It provides a compact alternative to traditional sports dinghies, with increased rigidity both on the hull, the mast and appendages.

It also benefits from an increase in power with a new mainsail in laminated sailcloth and is equipped with a boom.

The initial Tiwal 3 was launched three years’ ago, and the new sport version completes the range of inflatable sailing dinghies - the Tiwal 3, Tiwal 2 and Tiwal 2L - from the French shipyard.

“The sporting public wanted a nomadic boat with even better performance. Offering the possibility of sailing everywhere, simply and with maximum fun, is in Tiwal’s DNA,” explained Marion Excoffon, designer and co-founder of Tiwal.

“For the Tiwal 3R, we’ve brought even more rigidity to the whole boat,” adds Marion Excoffon.

control beside a pantograph helmsman’s door.

A large opening roof can reveal the main deck to the elements. Systems are accessed through an integrated Böning vessel monitoring system while, for entertainment, a Naim audio system is installed throughout the saloon,

master stateroom and sportbridge.

Below deck, there are four en-suite cabins, with a further twin cabin aft for occasional guests or crew.

The upper deck has a U- shaped dining area, wet bar with barbecue and L-shaped seating forward that transforms to a sunbed.

The foredeck has sunbeds with integrated adjustable headrests, which can be converted to create additional aft-facing seats.

At the stern is a garage with electro-hydraulic door and integrated launch system.

The hull benefits from a new technology – ‘fusion’ – as well as a better flow of water at the back of the hull.

The mast is made of 90% carbon and the appendages are made in composite.

A 7.2m2 light wind rig is for 6 to 12 knots of wind, and there is a 6m2 sport sail for stronger winds.

All sail controls return to the helmsman on each side of the boat.

8 The Tiwal 3R completes the Tiwal range

8 The GranTurismo 12.0 is powered by three of the latest Mercury Verado V10 engines

8 The new Princess Yachts S72

Conversations around cost-of-living concerns are making their way into the workplace as people look to their employers for support.

Already, big-name companies are announcing an array of financial initiatives to help employees combat the biggest income squeeze on record.

Metro Bank recently confirmed plans to give a pay rise to 98% of its employees, while John Lewis has begun providing free meals to help staff’s budgets stretch further. Others have introduced perks such as interest-free loans, gift cards, shopping discounts, one-off bonuses, and even emergency hardship loans.

A general review

Employee needs have changed. As such, an incentive and reward package that worked a decade ago might not cut it today. It may be an opportune time for a compensation and benefits review to optimise the current offering based on what really matters to employees right now, namely money.

Indeed, with money worries at the forefront of many people’s minds, a recent survey in HR Magazine found overtime to be the most in-demand work perk, followed by flexible working hours and company-funded retirement plans.

From a legal perspective, it’s important to make sure that any benefits that might be changed aren’t part of an employee’s contract of employment. If they are, employers need to consult staff to get their agreement to make changes.

Changing benefits is one matter, looking at changing pay in response to a rise in cost of living is another

BUSINESSMATTERS

TOYAH MARSHALL: Principal employment law advisor and solicitor at WorkNest

COST OF LIVING BONUSES

staff who are struggling. Indeed, a growing number of businesses have started providing free meals at work as part their employee benefits package. One BT call centre set up a “community pantry” where staff can donate and pick up essentials such as dried pasta, cereal and baby food.

While some will appreciate these sorts of perks, it’s important to be mindful that many will be uncomfortable with the idea - BT was criticised for “normalising in workpoverty”. Moreover, those who are facing financial hardship will likely not want their colleagues to know that they are struggling; this could lead to grievances and possible reputational damage, as well as call into question whether staff are being fairly paid.

consideration altogether.

If a salary raise is the answer, then it must be approached on a basis that it can be sustained longer term. And it must also be awarded on a scientific basis – meaning that there must be some thought and objective criteria which determined the raise.

Perhaps something more sustainable would be the consideration of bringing pay reviews forward. Thought should be given to awarding an annual pay rise six months early to ease the burden over the winter months.

One-off bonus payments

Some employers are looking to pay a one-off bonus payment to provide temporary financial relief. The problem is that in some cases, this is being done as a knee-jerk reaction and is symbolic only. While employers want to be seen to be doing ‘something’ and have considered one-off bonuses as a way of doing this, this risks setting

an annual expectation. From a legal point of view, a one-off bonus payment should not ordinarily give rise to any future entitlement to bonus payments, so long as it is completely discretionary. If, however, there becomes a history or pattern of making such payments, the element of discretion may be lost.

Hardship loans

Employers can loan employees up to £10,000 each year with no tax consequences. However, those considering offering hardship loans should ask the employee to sign a loan agreement before making any payment, setting out the terms of the repayment, including repayment term, authorisations for deductions from salary for repayments, repayment if they leave, and sanctions if the loan isn’t repaid. This aside, the main question is whether hardship loans are a good idea. Loaning money to employees won’t

necessarily solve the problem and could lead an employee into further debt. Furthermore, employers rarely do a ‘credit check’ when lending money. What if the employee has no means of paying it back? Disciplinary action? Employers are not banks. Additionally, some are paying hardship loans with no expectation that employees pay it back. This main issue here is equality and ensuring fairness is applied in the process of awarding loans and in awarding the right amount. How can an employer judge the ‘need’ of one employee compared with another? This is incredibly subjective and plays right into the hands of discrimination claims.

Other considerations and issues

8 Consider the optics

If an employer is not in a position to consider financial bonuses, it may want to look to provide food or other items to help

8 Beware of discrimination

Lastly, as with any benefits scheme, it’s important to consider if cost of living incentives may give rise to complaints of discrimination. For example, John Lewis’ free meal scheme is a great perk. However, depending on the food on offer, not all employees may be able to benefit. If the John Lewis canteen menu doesn’t cater for Kosher or Halal diets, for example, it may exclude some from that perk.

Also, benefits that are only provided to certain roles could also give rise to complaints of discrimination unless there is an objective justification for it.

Summary

All of these are simple solutions that not only put money in people’s pockets without great cost to employers but may have financial and other benefits for businesses too. That said, care must be taken in their use.

Photo by Richard on Unsplash

SBS BoatLife 2023 is set to be 25% larger than the inaugural show in 2022.

With four weeks to go before the event, organisers say more exhibitor bookings have been taken, with many taking larger stands.

Advance ticket sales are ahead of the first show and visitors will be able to enjoy more than 200 brands on display with more than 150 exhibitors and 200 boats inside the NEC, including 12 narrowboats.

“Not long to go and SBS BoatLife 2023 is shaping up to be a not-to-be-missed event for the boating community and beyond,” said Richard Dove, BoatLife MD. “Our aim of bringing those new to the water and seasoned marine enthusiasts together under one roof is being achieved.”

Currently 14 ambassadors and influencers from boating social media are confirmed, between them having a total of 340k+ followers.

Overall, 13 sponsors and partners have joined the team, supporting clothing, media, the activity pool and the main stage.

Key features of this year’s show include the GJW

Tingdene Boat Sales will show five boats at SBS BoatLife 2023.

The four-berth Viking 24 and six-berth Viking 275 from Viking Cruisers are particularly suitable for new boaters.

The river cruisers are built to offer reliability and practicality together with being modern, spacious and well-appointed.

Viking Canal Boats is a family-owned business that designs their boats in conjunction with their customers.

At BoatLife, Tingdene will show the Viking Canal Boat 70ft by 12ft 06in.

This wide beam has two bedrooms, a wet room, a large saloon and a spacious galley, incorporating all the home comforts wanted on a liveaboard vessel.

SBS BoatLife GROWS BY 25%

Activity Pool, for demos, have-a-go opportunities and even paddleboard yoga sessions.

The pool will show 13 different activities over the four-day period. Similarly, the Live Stage, sponsored by SALT marine finance, will host 14 great speakers.

In addition, automotive partner Isuzu UK, alongside headline sponsor SBS Trailers, will be offer an opportunity to put the D-Max model to the test in the NEC grounds, with off-roading and towing activities available plus a choice of trailers. Boats on display will

include the Delphia 11 Seda from Tingdene, the Aspre 720 GT from Boatshop, the Eden 14 from Waterlodge and a GS25 Cruiser and Alonsea 600 with Bray Marine.

In addition, TL Harvey will show a UK exclusive of the Maxima 650 Flying Lounge, Marine Energy Systems will launch U SAFE and Molabo

8 25% more exhibitor space has so far been booked for SBS BoatLife 2023

products into the UK, plus the 2023 Sea Angling Classic prize boat will be revealed on the Extreme Boats stand.

8 BoatLife takes place at the NEC, Birmingham from February 16-19.

FIVE BOATS FROM TINGDENE ON SHOW

8 The Viking 24 will be shown at BoatLife by Tingdene Boat Sales with twin core internal stiffening.

The double skinned hull of the all-rounder is available in a range of colours.

The boats are powered by an outboard engine with the choice from a Mercury 15hp to 40hp.

The Henley 5 Offshore day boat is a boat suitable for fishing, water sports, or taking family out the day.

Other features include wi-fi, heating and a wine fridge. Tingdene will also introduce a new sloop style

dayboat range that starts with the British built Henley 5 Classic with everything needed as standard.

The boats are hand-built in the UK by a team of experienced boat builders from a fiberglass hull

The design is a reflection of its Classic counterpart, but with the additional options of a Mercury 60, 80 or 100hp to suit all customers’ requirements for power.

Raymarine’s YachtSense

Link marine router will be one of the products on show at SBS BoatLife 2023.

The product, won the 2022 DAME Award in the category ‘Marine electronics and marine related software’, is a multipurpose marine mobile router equipped with Raynet Ethernet ports, mobile broadband connectivity, and onboard wi-fi.

“We are constantly aiming to deliver high-performance systems that make boating more stress-free, in which onboard connectivity is crucial,” said Gregoire Outters, General Manager at Raymarine, said: We are delighted to be recognised for YachtSense Link, an integral part of the new YachtSense Ecosystem which enables complete onboard and offboard integration for a smart home on the water.”

YachtSense Link allows crew and family to connect Axiom displays, phones, tablets, and PCs to a unified onboard network.

It automatically switches

DAME AWARD CATEGORY WINNER ON SHOW

New motor on show

8 eProplusion’s I-Series will be shown at BoatLife 2023

Electric marine motor company ePropulsion UK will exhibit for the first time at BoatLife, together with retail dealer Ashton Marine Services.

The new ePropulsion I-Series range will be on show for the first ime in the UK, suitable for canal boats, large leisure yachts and fishing boat owners.

between marina Wi-Fi and mobile networks to ensure you are always connected. Users are also able to combine YachtSense Link with the Raymarine mobile app for remote access to

the Raymarine network, with added security of remote GeoFence vessel monitoring. YachtSense Link also features low-voltage digital switching/monitoring channels for controlling

NEW ELECTRIC DRIVE DEALER APPOINTMENT

Marine Energy Systems has been appointed as a premium dealer for the UK for Molabo electric drives.

The company has developed an electric drive which can provide high power at 48 volts.

The drive provides a peak power of 80kW and a nominal power of 50kW and is approved for use in the boating sector according to the Recreational Craft Directive. It is suitable for use in motorboats and sailing yachts.

It has a reinforced end shield, allowing the motor to be mounted either vertically or horizontally making it

suitable for the electrification of saildrives, outboards, shaft drives and Z-drives.

The low voltage means there is no need for a large battery and installation can be carried out by regular

marine electrical engineers.

“We’ve been looking at the electric propulsion market during the last two years and are excited to find a product and manufacturer that complements our

and monitoring onboard electrical devices such as pumps, batteries and lighting.

8 Raymarine’s YachtSense Link was a DAME Award category winner existing portfolio,” said Marine Energy Systems MD John Ainsworth. The UK distributor will show the electric drive at BoatLife alongside Quick Spa gyro stabilisers and thrusters, Dockmate wireless remote control docking systems, WhisperPower power generation and battery storage systems and the DAME Award winning U SAFE self-propelled, remote control safety buoy which quickly reaches a person in distress.

The motors can be retrofitted to a shaft drive. The I-Series is available in three models the I-10, I-20 and I-20, with a power input of 10kW, 20kW and 40kW respectively. The motors can drive boats up to 24m or 25 tons and replace equivalent traditional 20 to 80hp diesel engines.

“It’s a brilliantly simple system, because it is supplied as a completely integrated unit,” said Steve Bruce, ePropulsion UK MD. “The motor, gearbox, motor controller, system control unit and cooling system are all contained inside a compact, plug and play unit.”

Also on display will be the ePropulsion Spirit and Navy range of portable and long-range outboard motors.

The Spirit motors will power tenders and smaller boats, and the Navy motors will propel boats between 2.5 and 5 tons.

8 Molabo electric drives provide high power at 48 volts

Electric conversion kit on show at BoatLife

8 Lightening Craft has developed an electric conversion kit

Lightening Craft has taken a step further within the green tech scene and developed a ready-toinstall electric propulsion conversion kit which will be on show at SBS BoatLife.

The kit provides a green alternative to standard marine engines with no compatibility issues.

The kit is bolt-in, readyto-install system and was developed while producing the first prototype Lightning Craft.

Ongoing testing has proved the performance and reliability of the kit with compatibility issues ironed out by developing Lightening Craft’s own throttle and finding perfectly matched charger and battery solutions.

The integrated battery monitor shows owners how much range and time is left.

With each vessel being different, Lightening Craft does not include a one-sizefits-all battery, charger, and cable package in its kit.

Instead, the company can recommend, supply, and install all the necessary components to ensure the craft receives a custom conversion, with each project adapted according to requirements.

Lightening Craft was founded by Josh Masters who trained as a marine diesel engineer and later began to work on a new type of propulsion.

The company manufactures a range of direct drives, belt drives and canal drives.

Honda Marine launched its new ‘Sporty White’ earlier in 2023, a new range inspired by the Honda Motor Racing colours.

The new colour will be used on four of Honda’s outboard engines, the BF250, 225, 200, and 150.

The engines use the same technology as that used by Honda motor racing including iST technology (Intelligent Shift and Throttle) providing owners with precise electronic engine response to control multiple engines with a single lever. The BF150 also has the option of mechanical, a conventional analogue control.

The Sporty White engines offer VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control), BLAST (Boosted Low Speed Torque) System, and PGM-FI electronic fuel injection technology enabling rapid acceleration and incomparable performance.

They are paired with Honda’s ECOmo system for

NEW SPORTY WHITE RANGE OF OUTBOARDS

efficient fuel economy and iST technology for precise engine response.

The engines have PGM-FI electronic fuel injection to optimise BLAST and ECOmo to enable owners to reach optimal cruising speed with fuel efficiency.

When users enter

cruise mode, the engine automatically enters the ECOmo function, reducing the quantity of petrol to air volume reducing fuel consumption.

In addition, VTEC which is available on the BF250, 225, and 150 models provides a blend of power,

torque, and efficiency at any speed optimising engine performance throughout the entire RPM range. Honda Engines will be on display at SBS BoatLife by TL Harvey Marine Sales & Services.

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8 Honda Marine has introduced a Sporty White Range

Riber’s new PHOTON Sit On Top Kayak will be on show at SBS BoatLife 2023. Features of the new kayak include a wide hull width for stability on flat water, while the curvature and rocker of the hull mean it also performs in the sea and amongst waves.

The kayak has bucket storage hatches with a soft closure for keeping essentials and valuables safe whilst out paddling. There are handles either side with paddle holders and an ergonomic grab handle at the rear.

In the rear storage area, there are two drainage holes which means it is suitable for use with the Sit on Top Kayak Trolley which allows the kayak to be transported without the need to use a strap to secure the boat.

This kayak has a central drinks holder and space to fit an optional Rod Holder. It has five drainage holes spaced across the boat and there are several footrest points for added comfort when paddling.

NEW KAYAK ON SHOW AT SBS BOATLIFE

There are also several D-rings which can be used to secure paddles leashes or other similar items. The rear bungee storage area is suitable for a trolley.

The kayak is made from blow moulded HDPE in Derbyshire with the company selecting its colour range to mitigate any potential colour fade

over time and also using UV stable pigments.

The core hull is a blown in one piece mould for buoyancy and rigidity.

The kayak comes with a user’s guide and there is a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.

NEW ANGLING VILLAGE

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Marine Power is to sponsor the new Angling Village at SBS BoatLife taking place in February 2023.

This family-run business, based in Norfolk, will display four boat brands at the show - Linder, UMS, Smartwave and Kolibri.

The Marine Power Suzuki Angling Zone will incorporate a stage and VIP area. The zone will host BoatLife ambassadors and fishing enthusiasts John

Locker, Will Parkinson, Team Squidward and Simon Gibson.

Also exhibiting in the new zone will be Extreme Boats, Warrior Boats, Railblaza, Smartliner and Hobie Kayaks. There will also be fishing tournaments including the Sea Angling Classic and World Predator Classic.

Marine Power has a showroom in Brundall and has been in business since 1987.

“The Angling Village is a new and important area for the show, and we are pleased to see so much interest in it,” said Richard Dove, MD, BoatLife Events. Angling is a sport we really want to help promote and grow through BoatLife. Marine Power is totally on board with what we are looking to achieve, and it really is great working with such a positive team.”

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8 Riber’s new PHOTON Sit On Top kayak

8 Warrior Boats will be on display in the new Angling Village at SBS BoatLife

An inaugural report by CHIRP has been published in the hope of preventing avoidable safety incidents onboard superyachts.

The collection of safety incidents, which have been collected anonymously through CHIRP’s website and app, have been analysed, reported on and given safety recommendations to prevent similar incidents occuring in future.

”We recognise that reporting can often be a difficult step, but we rely on reports to raise awareness of safety issues and it really is helping to improve safety outcomes by doing so,” said Adam Parnell, director maritime, CHIRP.

”We believe that our safety newsletters differ to many others because we focus on the primary human-factors that contributed to incidents and near misses.”

Lessons to be learned

One of the incidents in CHIRP’s Superyacht

Fedback involved entrapment in running

Sea-Fire Europe has developed a new line of AVD portable extinguishers for the EMEA market, providing a cost-effective lithium battery fire suppression solution.

Fires resulting from lithium battery cell failure can be volatile and fast evolving with conventional fire suppressant and extinguishing agents not designed to combat them.

The expanding use of lithium in energy storage units in the form of deep cycle batteries and electric craft powerplants, together with a greater reliance on mobile devices such as phones and tablets results in a greater onboard fire risk, says Sea-Fire.

When a lithium battery cell fails, whether due to damage, defect, short circuit or overcharging, the

ADDRESSING SAFETY ISSUES ONBOARD SUPERYACHTS

8 CHIRP has published its first collection of superyacht safety incident reports

home and was off work for a month.

In its safety recommendation, CHIRP said that there needed to be better coordination between the supervising officer and the person working the block. Clear verbal warnings that the hoist was about to start would have alerted the crew member to keep their hands clear.

equipment, which caused serious personal injury to one crewman.

On the dock, pulling on the running backstay requires someone pulling the block forward to keep lines off the teak deck. But in this instance, the

supervising officer operated the winch at high speed and the crew member on the block got their hand caught. As the block lifted, it hoisted the crew member roughly five metres high. It suddenly stopped, catapulting the crew back

to the deck, missing the mainsheet track by 10cm.

The casualty suffered a broken wrist, needed stitches to the lip and chin and was knocked unconscious for five minutes. The crew member had to pay for their flights

CHIRP also asks whether the crew person was even needed. If the concern was that the block might scratch the teak deck, wouldn’t a canvas cover or other covering have sufficed?

It said that the owners failed in their duty of care to look after and support the injured crew until they were fully recovered.

NEW LINE OF LITHIUM BATTERY FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

heat generated transfers to neighbouring cells which causes a cascading

— and potentially lethal — combustion sequence called thermal runaway.

The new Sea-Fire AVD refillable extinguishers use Aqueous Vermiculite Dispersion suppression

agent to encapsulate the fire source and provide a non-flammable oxygen barrier to smother flames while delivering a cooling effect to halt thermal runaway.

The suppression agent is an advanced and highly refined formulation of

vermiculite particles and water which is non-toxic and environmentally safe.

The new extinguishers are available in 500ml, and 1-litre sizes and Marine Equipment Directive approved 2, 6, and 9-litre capacities.

For larger vessels, wheeled units are available and fixed systems are planned for the future. The products feature multilingual labels, manuals and documentation in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese.

Source: Pixabay

8 The new Sea-Fire AVD extinguishers are suitable for lithium battery fires

A French start-up has launched an anti-UV t-shirt for children which automatically turns into a lifejacket in the event of a fall in the water.

The company behind the development of the anti-UV t-shirt, Floatee, designed the garment to be a key safety device for young children.

Philippe Rouvier and Thibaut Choulet, the two engineers behind the company, wanted to create the t-shirt to have a normal appearance outside of the water, but which would swell immediately in the event of immersion.

They call it ’the missing link in child drowning protection’ and it has been specifically designed for children aged 18 months to six years, who are particularly at risk of accidents because they know how to move but not yet swim.

Added protection

Most juvenile drowning accidents happen when the child is not supposed to go into the water and under adult supervision. Unfortunately, vigilance is not infallible and in the

THE KIDS T-SHIRT THAT DOUBLES UP AS LIFEJACKET

Extended agreement for safety firms

Ocean Signal and Ocean Safety have announced an extended agreement to cover the UK distribution of EPIRBs, PLBs and AIS units for both the leisure and commercial marine sectors.

The agreement also covers servicing, battery exchanging and programming of products at Ocean Safety’s service centre in Southampton.

It follows on from Ocean Signal’s rescueME PLB3 being awarded the overall 2022 DAME Award.

majority of drowning cases, an adult was present within 20 metres.

The t-shirt aims to bridge the gap in this vigilance and give peace of mind to parents. In the event of immersion, the lung inside the T-shirt inflates in less than three seconds and keeps the child’s airways out of the water regardless of their fall

MES APPOINTED

Marine Energy Systems has been appointed to represent U SAFE in the UK.

Triumphant at The Dame Awards in 2019, the awardwinning U SAFE is a selfpropelled, remote control safety buoy which quickly reaches a person in distress.

The innovative design features two turbines – one on each leg – meaning the device can operate regardless of which way it is facing. With straightforward remote operation, it is designed to be deployed in any sea state by anyone.

The U SAFE is suitable for use in all industries from commercial fishing, search and rescue, defence and cruise to leisure boating.

Lt. Hager of the US Coast Guard said it was “Great at getting into areas where we

position, even if they’re unconscious.

Floatee’s anti-UV t-shirt is OEKO-TEX certified and is the result of a year and a half of development.

Strong presales for the t-shirt meant that the fundraising target to launch the product into production was reached in December 2022.

The company was

supported in its financing by the CREALIA fund, the Public Investment Bank (BPI), the Initiative France network and the Castres-Mazamet Technopole. It is also supported by EDF Hydro and Family of Rescuers.

U SAFE UK DISTRIBUTOR

can’t get vessels and small boats to recover conscious people.”

The product comes in three colours – the standard fluorescent orange, white (which is suitable for the luxury boat market) and yellow which is for the commercial sectors.

The U SAFE charges whilst housed on the supplied stand and immediately activates when thrown into water.

Weighing 13.7kg and capable of travelling up to 5.9km on a single charge, the U SAFE can reach speeds of 15kph. It has a rechargeable lithium ion battery and connects via Bluetooth or WiFi.

This, together with Ocean Signal’s rescueME EPIRB3 and SafeSea EPIRB3 Pro are now approved for the UK and Europe and available to ship.

The PLB3, for personal use, and EPIRB3, for a boat, combine long and short-range detection technologies - the global response capabilities of the Cospas-Sarsat rescue services and AIS technology to alert nearby vessels for immediate aid.

The beacons integrate GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) positioning, 406 MHz Cospas-Sarsat distress signal, 121.5 MHz local homing signals and AIS transmission.

Designed to be installed within a life jacket, the rescueME PLB3 is capable of automatically activating upon inflation and also offers visible and infrared strobe lights for final location in low visibility rescues.

The EPIRBs have a ten-year battery life.

The rescueME EPIRB3 is available with a Category II manual release bracket and the SafeSea EPIRB3 Pro comes with the Category I auto release, float-free bracket providing full IMO regulatory compliance for SOLAS vessels.

8 The company behind the development of the anti-UV t-shirt, Floatee, designed the garment to be a key safety device for young children

8 The U SAFE design features a turbine on each leg

ACR unveils new PLB

Safety and survival firm ACR Electronics has developed a new personal locator beacon (PLB).

The ResQLink AIS PLB with integrated man overboard alert combines Cospos-Sarsat’s 406 MHz satellite rescue services with AIS signals from nearby vessels.

“Our new PLB gives boaters the best chance of alerting others to a distress situation,” said Mikele D’Arcangelo, vice president of global marketing and product management for ACR.

“This next generation device provides our customers with the most advanced technology, plus the innovative design, functionality, features and ease of use that they expect from ACR Electronics.”

Designed to automatically activate when used with a compatible life jacket, the beacon links with emergency services, integrating satnav positioning, 406 MHz, 121.5 MHz RDF signals and AIS transmission, as well as Galileo Return Link Service technology.

The PLB transmits an AIS man overboard signal that can be picked up by any AIS equipped vessels within VHF radio range along with a 406 MHz distress signal picked up by satellite. It also features a 121 MHz homing signal, plus visible and infrared strobe lights.

The AIS also features near field communications allowing users to monitor their beacons, review selftest results, view GNSS test locations, monitor beacon performance and maintenance through the ACR Electronics app. The device, which is awaiting regulatory approval before it comes to market, is MEOSAR compatible and capable of operating for 24 hours with a five-year battery life.

International sales for Baltic Lifejackets have exceeded domestic sales for the first time since the company was founded in 1977.

The company has seen an increase in exports to France, Portugal, Spain, Italy and Holland with both the commercial and leisure ranges.

More than 56% of the lifejackets, buoyancy aids and flotation clothing manufactured across Europe are now exported from Sweden.

The company launched several new products at METSTRADE 2022 as part of its Baltic Environment Initiative range.

The initiative has been developed to put the environment first, using 100% recycled materials where the standards allow.

In addition, the manufacturing process emits 24% less CO2 than Baltic’s traditional range, with the company aiming to have 50% of the Baltic range

INTERNATIONAL SALES TAKE OFF

within this initiative by 2025.

“Baltic Lifejackets has acted and has put our environment first as we launch the Baltic Environmental Initiative,”

said Johan Lövqvist, Baltic Lifejackets CEO.

“Within this initiative customers can rediscover classic products in the Baltic range that are designed for the future.”

The first three products in the range are the Radial E.I., the Mist E.I., and the Split Front E.I. all of which are approved to EN/ISO 12402-4/5.

Environmental features of the products include buoyant material comprising of scraps of flotation material already used in other manufacturing process with the inner/ outer fabrics made from recycled PET bottles.

8 Baltic’s new initiative has been developed to put the environment first

Marine firefighting and lifesaving equipment supplier, Marine Fire Safety, has received Lloyd’s Register Approved Service Supplier status for the servicing of leading brands in the marine firefighting and safety market.

The certification reinforces the team’s ability to carry out inspections, service and maintain marine portable and fixed firefighting systems, as well as to service and inspect marine life saving equipment.

“We are delighted to have received Lloyds Register Approval for our marine firefighting and marine life saving sectors of the business,” said Mark Bresnahan, Marine Fire Safety MD. “For many of our commercial customers, it’s critical that our work satisfies the regulatory requirements needed for their safe operation and supports their level of trust and investment with us.”

He added: “This approval does just that, giving our

SUPPLIER STATUS APPROVAL GRANTED

DAME nomination for impact vest

Secumar’s FURIO hybrid impact vest was nominated for a DAME Award at METSTRADE 2022.

customers additional confidence in the services we offer and the assurance

that we are meeting the industries exacting standards.”

The vest, designed for fast dinghy sailing, especially for foiling sailing or skiff sailing as well as for kitesurfing is a combination of a 50N vest with impact protection and a manually activated, fully usable inflatable buoyancy chamber to give approximately 110N extra buoyancy.

It is manufactured from solid foam with a CO2 filled inflatable chamber with fabrics including neoprene, and a spacer fabric.

The vest is operated using a manually operated trigger. As soon as this is pulled, the hybrid impact vest tightly will secure to the wearer’s body to give the user the maximum freedom of movement.

Design details for extra wearer comfort include a small opening in the lower front area to allow room for a trapeze hook and a large, tough front zip to make it easy to put on.

The inflation handle is easily accessible so that the rescue collar can be triggered quickly. The back protector is built according to DIN EN 1621-2 for additional protection of the spine. There is a storage bag in the chest area for smaller items as well as a hanging loop and an adjustable body strap for a close fit.

The best is available in four sizes, small to extra large for users weighing from 60kg to 115kg.

8 Marine Fire Safety has gained Lloyds Register Approval

8 Secumar’s FURIO is available in four sizes

ANTI-FOULING PERFORMANCE IS ENHANCED

MARKETING

Imagine that your brand is a character in a television show.

Are you the dour, hardened detective, from the wrong side of the tracks or are you the sweet old lady solving mysteries on the side? Each has distinctive characteristics and ways of talking, to uniquely interact with the audience. What they don’t do is suddenly take on a different personality –well not normally! It doesn’t really work.

It’s the same for your brand. if you don’t have a distinctive and consistent tone of voice, constantly fliting somewhere between a jolly friend and a funeral director, it can impact the entire view of your brand and make it very hard for people to connect.

To build a strong tone of voice for your business:

4 Take the time to define who your customers are.

4 Decide what personality your business wants to convey.

4 Check your competitors messaging.

4 Don’t be afraid to be different

4 Work out a persona that both represents the values of your business and helps you to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Are you the heritage, established brand, or are you the young innovator that disrupts the market?

Of course, tone of voice should adapt and flex to the information that is being conveyed but it should never truly deviate from your overall personality.

A clear and steady tone of voice will help you cut through all that other marketing noise and mean you set yourself apart.

The biocide, Selektope, is being introduced into marine antifouling coatings to enhance the performance of selfpolishing co-polymer (SPC) marine coatings.

I-Tech’s team of R&D scientists have been working on the technology for the last five years and say they have discovered new ways in which the first-ofits-kind biocide, Selektope can be introduced to marine antifouling coatings in combination with other biocides with little or no effect on formulation chemistry or performance.

The technology works by improving the dispersion of the active substance via adsorption to paint pigment particles.

And the scientists say positive static test results have also provided proof of concept that Selektope can be used in silicone-based

Hempel’s best seller in the marine sector, Hempaguard X7, has been recognised not only by the superyacht industry but also by the Water Revolution Foundation (WRF) that has rewarded the product with a sustainable solution certificate.

The certification means the antifouling has been entered in WRF database of sustainable solutions, verified under the Life Cycle Assessment methodology as an antifouling coating that uses advanced technology to extend the fouling free period.

“We welcome Hempaguard X7 as a verified sustainable solution and one of the first entries to our database of products that can prove their environmental credentials,” said Robert van Tol, executive director, WRF.

“We want to promote

foul release coatings, a new application area for the technology.

Repelling

Selektope is an organic, non-metal biocide that prevents hard fouling, repelling barnacle larvae from a coated surface.

The controlled release of Selektope in SPC coatings has proved successful using traditional methods with multiple products commercialised to-date, however, I-Tech says its R&D efforts have focussed on further improving the controlled release of the technology and minimising any issues catalysed through the introduction of Selektope into a paint matrix.

“This work is significant for two reasons; enhancing the current use of Selektope in SPC coating types and, opening up new routes for us to explore the use of this

novel technology in foul release coatings,” said Dr Markus Hoffmann, technical director at I-Tech.

Reformulation

“The fact that the addition of Selektope, pre-adsorbed on pigment particles does not require fundamental paint reformulation makes this R&D progression even more impactful since it can be adopted immediately by our customers.”

And he said that following two years of R&D work, I-Tech has obtained proof of concept that if Selektope is

pre-adsorbed on a carrier compound, antifouling performance is improved, owing to the improved dispersion of the biocide in the paint matrix.

“Our next steps will be to expand our knowledge base,” said Dr Hoffmann. “We will also conduct further work to refine the process of adsorbing Selektope on zinc oxide and explore other pigments as potential carriers.”

HEMPEL RECEIVES SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION CERTIFICATION

“Hempel’s aim is to achieve the mentioned sustainability goals without compromising the performance.

“Pressure is increasing on the boating community to reduce the use of biocide-based antifoulings to protect the environment and marinas.”

those that make a significant difference in driving sustainability within the superyacht sector.”

The product has been introduced as a solution for superyachts, including those with long idle periods of up to 120 days, allowing an extended service interval of up to 60 months.

“We all know sustainability is the key word in the

coating industry at the moment, with fuel efficiency and minimal environmental impact playing an important role when choosing the right coating solutions,” explained Zeljka Bassanese, market communication manager for Hampel.

She added: “Hempel aims to be the leading innovator of high-performance coating for yachts with minimised impact on the environment.

“The success of Hempaguard X7 and Hempel’s Silic One is only encouraging Hempel experts to continue in development of new solutions and technologies, therefore we are determent to lead the way towards superyacht coatings sustainability.”

CHRIS JONES is founder of the Knot Agency

8 I-Tech has introduced Selektope into antifoul coatings

8 Hempel’s Hempaguard X7 has been recognised by the Water Revolution Foundation

LESLEY ROBINSON British Marine CEO

In response to many of our members voicing concerns over recruitment, retention and skills shortages within the sector, we have developed a suite of four, easy-to-access, HR-focused webinars, in partnership with training specialists

WeDo HR Support Ltd.

Tailored specifically to small to medium-sized leisure marine businesses, each webinar will tackle a different aspect of the HR function, offering practical advice, tips and guidance, which can be easily applied to your business.

With interactive Q&A sessions and supported by downloadable how-to guides, webinar topics include recruiting, building, managing and retaining a winning team:

22 February – HR for the non-HR manager –information and resources to help managers confidently handle HR issues on their own.

15 March – Recruitment and selection – understand the tools needed to recruit and select the best talent for your organisation.

26 April – Retentionlearn what drives employee retention and what you can do to keep your people motivated, engaged and retained.

24 May – Learning and development – explore best practice in learning and development and some of the potential pitfalls to be aware of.

The webinars are available to British Marine members and nonmembers, with a significant discount on the price for members.

NEXT GENERATION TOP COAT HAS ENHANCED COLOUR TECHNOLOGY

AkzoNobel has launched the next generation of its Awlcraft 3000 with enhanced colour technology.

The new Awlcraft 3000 system uses the same toner system as the Awlgrip HDT, designed to reduce complexity for Awlgrip distributors.

Sharing the next generation colour platform with Awlgrip HDT means it offers a deeper, truer and more consistent colour performance, while retaining a long-lasting, high-gloss finish.

It shares the application characteristics and repairability of Awlcraft 2000.

“Specifically engineered for a consistent, easy application that dries quickly, it retains all the qualities that have made Awlcraft 2000 the celebrated product that is loved by applicators and

boat owners far and wide,” said Matthew Anzardo, Global Yacht Segment Manager at AkzoNobel Yacht Coatings.

“Its enhanced colour platform ensures that colours pop like never before, resulting in a longlasting, high-gloss finish that is guaranteed to turn heads.” Developed specifically

for professional use, the system is coupled with AkzoNobel’s suite of digital colour matching tools.

Awlcraft 3000 Clear Coat and a set of readymixed colours including the popular colours of Snow White, Flag Blue and Extreme Black, will be initially available for the Asia Pacific, European, and North American markets.

The full Awlcraft 3000 range will consist of a full range of colours, a clear

coat, and a binder base which will be available later in 2023.

Awlcraft 3000 will continue to use Awlcat #2 converter and Awlgrip Reducers.

The launch of the new generation topcoat and clear coat comes in a landmark year for Awlgrip, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

A GREENER COATING FOR MARINE GROWTH AND CORROSION

The Propspeed line is a range of biocide free, foulrelease coatings meaning they’re cleaner than some traditional approaches to antifouling.

While both antifouling and foul-release coatings prevent marine growth from colonising on underwater surfaces, how they do it differs greatly. Antifouling paints use a biocide or toxin as their active ingredient and come in a range of hardness.

Propspeed is biocide free, meaning that instead of killing marine growth with toxins and contributing to further environmental impacts, it creates a slick surface that prevents marine growth from attaching to

underwater assets. Any marine growth that does form is easily wiped away or falls off through propeller or vessel movement.

In addition, by acting as an insulating coating system, Propspeed can also help in protecting underwater metals from corrosion and eliminating some of the more damaging environmental impacts of anode fallout.

Propspeed preserves the integrity of metal surfaces, unlike antifouling paints, which can cause copper to leach out of bronze, weakening the material.

The range includes Propspeed for running gear and underwater metals.

8 The new Awlcraft 3000 system uses the same toner system as the Awlgrip HDT

AkzoNobel’s Yachting Coatings business has introduced a new biocidefree fouling control range – B-Free.

Aimed at boaters in the recreational market, the first product to be launched from the new range is B-Free Explore.

It features a specially developed, silicone polymer technology which produces a smooth and slick hull –helping to reduce drag.

Any fouling that does adhere to a boat’s hull can be wiped away by hand or water jet.

“We’ve developed highperformance technology which allows boaters to maintain a clean, smooth hull,” explains Simon Parker, director of AkzoNobel’s Marine and Protective Coatings business. “It’s based on proven technology and exemplifies the restless spirit of innovation which has been the cornerstone of our International brand for more than 140 years.”

NEW BIOCIDE-FREE ANTIFOUL

need for the removal of the previous antifouling coating, making it easier for boaters to change from their traditional coatings to the new technology.

“Boaters are becoming more aware of the impact they can have on the environment, but they still require technologies that deliver high-performance fouling control. B-Free Explore provides a standout solution for both of these challenges,” said Jemma Lampkin, Global Commercial Director for AkzoNobel’s Yacht Coatings.

Development programme B-Free Explore is the culmination of a five-year development program. Being biocide-free, it provides a smooth surface for improved hull efficiencies, which can

lead to a reduced carbon footprint.

It can be applied to new hulls or directly to existing antifouling, without the

Heat differential is reduced

Teamac’s latest product is its Galley Paint which helps protect against condensation in shower rooms and galleys.

The product works by reducing the heat differential between the air in the area, which is holding moisture, and the cooler surface it comes into contact with, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming. The finish paint is also protected against any mould formation.

“Ultimately, the innovations at the heart of B-Free Explore allow boaters to focus more on what truly matters to them – being out on the water.”

B-Free Explore is currently being rolled out across Europe.

When it comes to antifoulings, Teamac’s Protector 2 remains available. The product is based on an ablative type resin structure and is suitable for all users.

Teamac D Plus is available for professional application in a range of colours for longer and stronger protection.

Teamac’s A Plus is also suitable for professional application. The product will accommodate faster boat speeds and can be applied directly to aluminium as well as wood, steel and GRP hulls.

“All the antifoulings demonstrate a good level of compatibility to different existing systems,” explained Geoff Mackrill, Teamac director.

The antifoulings are complimented by Teamac Metaclor Antifouling primer if there is any question about anticorrosion requirements and surface tolerance.

And Geoff explained how the coatings industry is working with the Health and Safety Executive to try and ensure an effective but pragmatic approach is taken to the UK BPR authorisation process.

A previous deadline for completion of the assessment and authorisation process was pushed back by HM government/HSE in December 2022 for five years to enable this to happen.

8 International’s B-Free Explore is a biocide-free coating

Years of practise, failure and more practise have ingrained the resolve in Debbie Hood to understand that if you want something enough, you practise until you succeed.

And that’s the message she’s keen to impart as she embarks on her new venture as the owner and founder of the new British powerboat and super RIB company, Enigma Powerboats, based on the South Coast.

Debbie, who has been a professional ice-skater for most of her life having started learning at the age of three, admits she’s reached an age - 60 - where many others are winding down, she’s not ready to put her slippers on and watch box sets.

“I needed to do something that had a bigger purpose.

“I want to maximise and achieve. It makes me feel alive and exhilarated.”

She’s now compiled a design and build team that includes naval architect Adam Younger and tubing specialist Paul Heaysman and construction is well underway on the first Enigma performance RIB that Debbie is keen to stress has been designed to combine both safety and speed.

“I’ve always been driven to push boundaries and take on challenges from childhood,” she says.

“My family are speed demons, my eldest son races in motorsport and my father and sister were for many years involved in powerboat racing, so we were bi-weekly at a race destination either in the UK or abroad, even my partner has raced P1 powerboats.

“I was always on shore when my family was racing and came to understand and realise there were a number of areas within the

PROFILE Debbie Hood

CEO and founder, Enigma Powerboats

high-performance leisure craft industry that were missing a trick.

“It was time to take these thoughts on board and come up with the concept and offer to the market the type of boat that I’ve always wanted to feel safe in, to enjoy both speed and comfort.”

New approach

She adds: “I felt it was time to bring a new approach to powerboating, to dispel the fear factor in handling a larger performance boat, alongside the perceived ‘thrill ride’ discomfort that is often anticipated on such speed craft.

“It was time to take these thoughts on board and come up with the concept.

“I’m bringing a woman’s perspective and showstopping style, to the safety and style of RIBs.”

And she’s also using the new RIB to promote causes close to her heart, particularly the best of British, with British industry and suppliers used wherever possible.

“I wanted to champion the suppliers whose products provide the platform without which such amazing craft would not exist.”

And so not only is Debbie working all hours playing a key role in building the first Enigma RIB, she’s also still heading to the ice rink at 6am three times a week.

“There are two sides to

my life, and I love them both. Both of them involve chilly conditions.”

And while Debbie says the initial build of any project is a challenge to both mental and physical demand and effort, the encouragement she’s receiving make the long hours worthwhile.

Positive

“It’s a ten-to-12-hour daily push, staying positive long into chilly evenings, reworking ideas, while being covered in sticky resin.

“But to then receive such uplifting encouragement and comments from site visitors or online media spurs on that energy and focus.”

“There are many low points…but as the saying goes ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’.

And as for advice for others, Debbie is keen to stress that if you want something enough your energy and drive will channel through to make that goal succeed.

“Never let a single doubt creep in,” she stresses. “Focus, believe and you will receive.”

And for Debbie, who

used to travel across London to the ice-skating rink by herself at the age of 11, a positive mindset and not being daunted is key to success.

“Don’t think big, think bigger,” she emphasises. “If you want something, you’ve got to put your heart, soul and belief into it.”

And while she and the rest of the Enigma team are excited to be able to give customers a ‘superior, stunning’ boat, she also cautions: “Be grateful... be grateful for your health, fresh air, drinking water, your home, wardrobe of lovely clothes, those who love you, the little things that are bigger than you realise, as many don’t even have of these things and would be grateful to even have just one.”

And if anyone has the drive and determination to make Enigma a success it’s Debbie who concludes: “The main point to relay is my passion to bring a new mindset to the leisure marine Industry. And to understand that this lady means business.”

8 Debbie Hood is the founder of Enigma Powerboats

8 Debbie Hood, Enigma Powerboats relaxing

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