Boating Business October 2021

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OCTOBER 2021

Person Behind the Face 6 | Business Matters 12 | Marketing 17 | Profile 24 | People 25

$1bn ORDER BOOK FOR PRINCESS

NEWS

Phenomenal success; Industry to reunite; Broads electrification pages 1-10

Princess Yachts saw its turnover reduce to £244m during 2020 from its 2019 full year turnover of £314.

However, the financial performance has improved during 2021 with even stronger results expected in 2022.

In its latest trading statement, the boatbuilder says the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic bought about many challenges, but now it has an order book of more than US$1 billion.

There are record low distributor stock levels globally equivalent to one to two weeks of stock - and production almost completely covered by orders into the second half of 2023. Retail sales have grown to the highest levels in the history of the company.

“The company now has a retail order book worth over US$1billion with the sales success of new models such as the X95, X80 and Y72 exceeding expectations,” said Antony Sheriff, Princess Yachts executive chairman and CEO. “We

8 Princess Yachts' retail sales are at their highest level in the company's history

have had over 20 orders for the X95, and 57 orders for the new Y72 model, the majority of these orders received off plan. All production slots are now filled for 2021, over 95% of 2022 production and over 60% of 2023 production is covered by orders.”

He added: “The combination of our unique vertically integrated manufacturing process, the investment required to make it Covid-19 compliant and our decision to not cut new product development or make staff redundant resulted in an understandable drop in profits during 2020.”

The new Y95, X80, and V50 models are already in production: five further new model launches are planned by the end of 2022.

The boatbuilder also continues to recruit and is looking to grow its 3,200-strong workforce.

ONBOARD POWER

40% growth Four options Remote monitoring pages 13-17

MARINA EQUIPMENT

First e-charging network for the UK Plymouth is set to become the first city in the UK to install a network of shore-side charging facilities for its expanding fleet of electric maritime vessels.

Princess Yachts in partnership with Plymouth City Council and Aqua SuperPower, led by the University of Plymouth is taking part in a project to develop a network of charging facilities around Plymouth Sound.

It is anticipated Plymouth's Marine e-Charging Living Lab (MeLL) will provide the infrastructure needed to support this growing industry.

“This is an exciting project that has the real potential to showcase Plymouth as a trail blazer in clean maritime innovation,” said Professor Will Blake, director of the

Sustainable Earth Institute at the University of Plymouth.

The project has received more than £570,000 funding as part of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, funded by the Department for Transport and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK. Led by the University of Plymouth in partnership with Plymouth City Council, Princess Yachts and Aqua SuperPower, the project will develop a network of charging facilities around Plymouth Sound.

Between now and March 2022, the team will identify locations for charging facilities that can be easily linked to the National Grid as well as developing technologies that can assess the environmental effects of e-charging.

Waste collecting rover; New mooring system; Extra revenue stream pages 18-22

NEWS

VIEWPOINT SIBS 2021 HAILED A KATINA READ | Editor

kread@boatingbusiness.com

'PHENOMENAL SUCCESS'

This month saw the return of the UK’s main boat show - Southampton International Boat Show. And what a difference to last year when the event was cancelled at the last minute.

Organisers British Marine pulled out all the stops to make the event a success and get the show on the road again.

There’s no doubt the event was different to previous years – and not just the new layout.

The need to provide a clear Covid test worried some who thought it would put visitors off from coming.

The regulation did have its teething problems with some who were physically unable to take the test being denied entry. And while the regulation was on the website, some visitors still missed it and arrived not knowing this was a requirement and had to take a test before being allowed in.

But with visitor numbers just 15% down on 2019, it’s clear that the vast majority had no problems.

And while there were fewer exhibitors in Ocean Hall, it’s also clear that boats were selling.

Boats.co.uk was just one exhibitor who came away at the end of the ten days very pleased. With 27 boats on seven stands, the company put everything in and sold boats for delivery in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

And they weren’t the only ones selling boats.

The overall sentiment I was heard over and over again when it came to the visitors, was ‘quality not quantity’.

Another overwhelming sentiment was that it was great to see people face to face again at a show and network rather than just seeing people over a computer screen.

The buzz on the pontoons was great to see and it was also great to see and touch a choice of products and boats again - as well as hearing the gossip again and hearing of yet more problems with supplier issues.

It’s a shame there weren’t more international launches – of both products and boats – but maybe these will come back in future years?

And at least the show’s dates won’t clash with Cannes next year with the UK event due to take place later in September.

The next major show in many people’s diaries is METSTRADE in November.

Yet again, this will be a very different show with a different layout and more Covid restrictions plus of course the added travel element for the majority of visitors.

Most are anticipating it to be a primarily European show with few expected to attend from Asia, the United States or Australasia.

While, yet again there’s a general and growing sense of anticipation that it’s a continuation of the post Covid world there are still some companies that will not allow their employees to attend even though their stands are booked.

We’ve all got a way to go – but supplier issues not withstanding – there’s a clear appetite for shows and the return of a sense of normality.

2 | OCTOBER 2021

Photo: British Marine

What a difference

Organisers, exhibitors, sponsors and visitors have hailed the 2021 Southampton International Boat Show as one of the best yet.

Postponed from 2020 because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the show welcomed more than 88,000 visitors across the ten days, 14% down from 2019's figures but still a satisfying turnout say organisers, given ongoing restrictions, particularly around international travel.

“This year's show has been a resounding success with a fabulous atmosphere as exhibitors and visitors alike have been enjoying meeting face-to-face,” said Lesley Robinson, British Marine chief executive. “The

feedback we've had from brands across the industry has been phenomenal."

New larger show With more than 500 boats on display and exhibits from more than 350 brands, the show featured a new layout over a larger area and five new dedicated zones - Watersports, Classic & Dayboat, Dinghy, On The Water and Festival Green.

More than 30 yachts made their world, UK or show debut either on the marina or on land, with large yachts on display including the Sanlorenzo SX88 and Sunseeker 88 and the sailing yacht, Hallberg Rassy 57.

Highlights included a chance to chat to the British

8 SIBS 2021 was 'one of the best yet'

Sailing Team, a Get Afloat zone giving visitors the opportunity to try dinghy sailing, paddle boarding and kayaking, or Try-a-Boat which ran RIB and sailing trips across the Solent.

Visitors could also enjoy adrenaline-packed shows at the On The Water stage and presentations from guest speakers.

Sustainability was a key focus too with the boat show three years into its five-year environmental pledge. Single use plastics were reduced including a total ban on plastic straws whilst tickets were issued electronically.

8 Next year's show will run from 16 to 25 September.

ePROPULSION SEES STELLAR GROWTH ePropulsion has reached 100% growth in sales revenue in 2021 following an increased take up of electric propulsion in Europe and North America.

Over 10,000 units have already been sold across the globe in 2021, including Europe, with the largest markets being the UK, US and Germany.

“We strive to innovate and build a sustainable

boating experience for our customers, and we continue to see a positive conversion rate of 20%, from different boat owners transferring to electric propulsion,” said Danny Tao, co-founder and CEO of ePropulsion.

“This trend is set to continue, and we expect to see more and more boat owners converting to electric outboards." ePropulsion’s latest range

includes the Spirit 1.0 Evo, Navy 3.0 Evo and Navy 6.0 Evo models; an evolution of the company's established Spirit and Navy product lines, with hydrogeneration capabilities. ePropulsion also has a 9.9hp pod drive model.

The company, which h as a distribution network in more than over 60 countries, is to open an office in Hong Kong to strengthen its R&D capabilities.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

NEWS Boating charity Wetwheels has launched a £1 million fundraising campaign in order to increase the number of its craft to ten by 2026.

The charity, founded ten years' ago by disabled yachtsman Geoff Holt MBE DL, provides disabled people with the opportunity to feel free and independent on the water.

It is anticipated the new specially built and fully accessible powerboats will allow 100,000 participants to get on the water.

“I launched the first Wetwheels boat in the Solent in 2011 to give disabled people the feeling of freedom and independence that you get from being on the water - it's something you can't gauge until you see the smile on their faces,” said Geoff, who was paralysed in 1984 and uses a wheelchair.

Access “The Wetwheels Foundation has come a long way in ten years, during which 35,000 disabled people have accessed the sea on board our boats.

“We are now delighted

WETWHEELS LAUNCHES £1m FUNDRAISING BID

Collaboration AdvanTec Marine has appointed Halyard (M&I) as exclusive UK and Ireland distributor for its Steelhead Marine range of cranes, davits and passerelles and for its Freeman Marine range of hatches, doors, portlights and windows.

US based AdvanTec Marine is a collaboration of brands with more than 100 years of combined business knowledge.

The organisation focuses on combining engineering capability, manufacturing experience and customer service with the goal of delivering a broad range of product solutions to the worldwide market.

Sustainability to unveil plans to expand the availability to even more disabled people throughout the UK who would not otherwise have the opportunity.”

The next boat will be based in Port Edgar Marina in Edinburgh from 2022.

Wetwheels currently operates from Hamble and Portsmouth in Hampshire

8 Geoff Holt founded Wetwheels ten years' ago

and locations in Kent, Cornwall, Yorkshire and Jersey. The charity currently has six boats.

FAIRLINE RECEIVES FURTHER FUNDING DF Capital has extended its financing to Fairline Yachts.

DF Capital has worked with the boatbuilder since 2017, initially to support Fairline Yachts' UK dealer network, enabling dealers to order and fund units off the production line prior to end-consumer handover, safeguarding margin negotiations to cover early payment requirements.

The finance funded the manufacturer for completed boats, enabling it to draw down as soon as boats were ready for delivery, releasing working capital.

This facility has now been extended further to include working capital financing to fund the final stages of fit-out.

This gives additional

BRIEFS

MDL Marinas has launched its new green strategy, committing to sustainability and focusing on environmental issues.

Through the strategy, the organisation aims to develop a culture of environmental awareness and care among its customers and staff, building on its existing initiatives.

Record season

flexibility to Fairline, enabling dealers to confidently order units to secure further production, and provides certainty and efficiency of liquidity for

the Fairline factory.The boatbuilder has produced twice as many vessels in 2021 as in 2020 and has also invested in new models.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

8 The Targa 45 Open is one of Fairline's latest models

Funding facilities have more than doubled over the last 18 months.

Boat rental platform Click&Boat has concluded a record season with summer bookings (June to August) in 2021 for all of its markets higher than all of 2019 or 2020. The top types of boat rented

by British customers were motorboats, sailboats and RIBs. However, Click&Boat also saw a large increase in motor yachts and catamarans with a 136% and 129% increase respectively compared to 2020.

OCTOBER 2021 | 3

NEWS

Reminders The MAIB has issued a raft of safety reminders and recommendations to help keep recreational boaters safe on the water. The latest safety digest walks through a number of incidents highlighting the challenges faced and the lessons learned.

An accident in a RIB in which injuries were minor shows the need for situational and hazard awareness at all times, whilst a fishing trip nearly ended in disaster when the boat was rapidly overwhelmed and sank putting all six on board at risk from hypothermia.

Expansion A Scottish marina is expanding to increase its berth count and accommodate superyachts as demand for boat ownership soars.

After receiving a six-figure loan from HSBC UK, South Queensferry’s Port Edgar Marina, formerly a naval base, will dredge a disused part of the marina and reinstate the old pier.

Increasing capacity will allow the marina to add an additional 50 mooring spaces to its existing number of 320 and accommodate yachts over 100ft, up from the current maximum length of 50ft..

Partnership Navico has partnered with the E1 Series, electric powerboating championship, scheduled to start in 2023. The event will see up to 12 teams reaching speeds up to 50 knots with Simrad electronics the official marine electronics partner and C-MAP the official cartography partner.

4 | OCTOBER 2021

After a one-year delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic, organisers say the 33rd edition of METSTRADE promises to be a special event that will reunite the sector.

This year the event will be a hybrid show with METSTRADE Connect running alongside the physical show.

METSTRADE Connect is a new virtual platform developed to bring the leisure marine industry together, with the platform helping visitors navigate their way through the show's programme and providing a browsable database of leisure marine professionals which will be available for use before during and after the show In addition to company profiles from the physical exhibitors, METSTRADE Connect also includes virtual exhibitors and visitors who are unable to join the show in Amsterdam.

Special guest Also new this year is METSTRADE TV, with round the world sailor Dee Caffari a special guest.

METSTRADE TO REUNITE THE INDUSTRY

Developed together with ICOMIA and media partners, the line-up will focus on the latest trends and developments in the leisure marine industry.

Another change from previous years is a temporarily adjusted floor plan as a consequence of the challenges caused by covid.

The 2021 edition will be held in the RAI's Europa Complex (Hall 1-7, Europa Foyer and Elicium) and the

extension to Hall 5. There will also be new locations for the SuperYacht Pavilion (SYP) in Hall 7, the Marina & Yard Pavilion (MYP) in the Elicium building and the Construction Material Pavilion (CMP) in the Europa Foyer.

element of the exhibitor base with 17 countries represented in 26 different pavilions.

“The boat shows in September such as Cannes and Monaco have illustrated just how ready people are to get together again and the tremendous energy that is released when they come face to face,” says METSTRADE director Niels Klarenbeek. “Everything is now in place to ensure that METSTRADE 2021 offers a dynamic mix of business opportunities, networking and social meetings to the many thousands of exhibitors and visitors who will head to RAI Amsterdam.

There is a genuine excitement in the air as we have brought together all the elements in the METSTRADE DNA that make this event so unique.”

Strong element As usual, the country pavilions will be a strong

8 The show will take place from 16 to 18 November at the RAI, Amsterdam.

8 METSTRADE 2021 will i nclude several new features

SUNSEEKER AWARDS SUPPLY CHAIN HEROES Sunseeker has announced the winners of the Sunseeker Supplier Awards 2021, in recognition and celebration of outstanding achievements in the supply chain.

Sunseeker considers its suppliers to be integral to the company's success, helping it develop and deliver innovative products and award-winning yachts.

Matthew Francis, supply chain director, said it was a great pleasure to award top-performing suppliers.

“The awards are our way of recognising the exceptional performance of our suppliers and provides an opportunity for us to celebrate the successful partnerships we have with fellow businesses in the marine industry,” he said.

Photo: Sunseeker International

BRIEFS

Winners The award categories and winners are - Outstanding Performance in Technical Support - Marineware Ltd; Design and Production Support - Atlas Contract Furniture Ltd; Outstanding Supplier for Customer

Service - Elite Fabrication and Welding Ltd; Outstanding Supplier for OnTime Delivery Performance - Sylmar Technology Ltd; Outstanding New Supplier - Anixter Ltd; Outstanding Individual Contribution Paul Boggas, Anixter Ltd;

8 Representatives from the Electric Centre receiving their award for Outstanding Service

Outstanding Service - The Electric Centre; Special Award for Interior Fitout on M/Y SKYE - Desty Marine; Outstanding Indirect Supplier - Coastal Industries Services.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

NEWS British Marine is launching a new national conference for the leisure marine industry with a focus on innovation, collaboration and networking.

The inaugural conference - Innovate for Success 2022 - will be held at the National Motorcycle Museum and the National Conference Centre in Solihull in the Midlands on 15 - 16 March, providing a pre-season opportunity to explore consumer trends and identify barriers to business growth.

British Marine member and event chair, Paul Martin, said that innovation was critical to the success of businesses and health of the industry. “This event has grown out of the demand from our members and associations for a pivotal conference at which we can all meet to share, learn and collaborate.

Sharing best practice “It will create a fantastic opportunity for B2B

BRITISH MARINE LAUNCHES NATIONAL CONFERENCE 8 BM is launching a new national conference

networking, acquiring knowledge and sharing best practice from across marine and wider sectors,” he said.

The two-day event will feature keynote speakers and presentations on a range of both broad and

sector-specific issues.

There will be opportunities for discussion, networking and exhibiting, including a buffet dinner held in the National Motorcycle Museum.

The news has been

welcomed by the industry with chief executives from companies including RS Sailing and RS Electric Boats, BAR Technologies and Wave International already confirming their attendance.

Govt funding to 'Electrify the Broads' A partnership of researchers and Norfolk Broads businesses has won government funding to help explore how the UK's largest area of protected wetlands can transition to cleaner fuels and propulsion.

The 'Electrify the Broads' (ETB) consortium is one of 55 winners of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, set up by the

Department for Transport in partnership with Innovate UK. Funding of £33.5 million is being made available to projects investigating how to decarbonise the maritime sector.

Currently electric motors are used only on smaller craft and the 'cruiser' fleet of private and hire boats remains almost entirely fossil-fuel powered.

The ETB partnership,

which includes RenEnergy, the Broads Authority, Net Zero East, Norfolk Broads Direct and Hethel Innovation, will look at the electric charging infrastructure throughout the Broads before demonstrating potential alternative fuels such as biofuels and hydrogen.

A survey found 80% of Broads boaters would like to use greener fuels.

BRIEFS Appointment Florida-based marine lighting and controls company, ShadowCaster, has appointed International Marine Products (IMP) as its UK distributor. IMP will distribute the ShadowCaster underwater LED lights and control systems. Lights are available in single colour, two-colour, three-colour or unlimited full colour models. The SCM series underwater marine LED lights have a low profile and are suitable for installation on boats kept on trailers or lifts out of the water. The SCR series round underwater marine LED lights are suitable for boats kept in the water all year round as a glass lens and smooth exterior finish make them a better option for combating marine growth.

New marina

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For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

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A new marina is proposed for Ramsey Bay on the Isle of Man which will feature a new yacht club, beach and all-tide launching ramp, along with residential and commercial properties and communal space for leisure activities.

Located between the harbour entrance and the Queen’s pier, the new marina will provide round-the-clock access in almost all weathers and will not have tidal restrictions, lock gates or sills. The project cost is estimated at £100 million and is being run

by Ramsey Marina Ltd (RML) which predicts that the development could bring 200 to 300 jobs to the area as well as £30 million per year in visitor spending.

OCTOBER 2021 | 5

NEWS

Commitments AkzoNobel Yacht Coatings is reinforcing its commitment towards sustainability by signing up to the Water Revolution Foundation’s Code of Conduct The is made up of ten commitments designed to make a difference in reducing the environmental footprint of the superyacht industry and restoring the world’s oceans.

Understanding The Health and Safety Executive, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and Marine Accident Investigation Branch have agreed to work together to ensure the safety of everyone accessing the UK’s inshore, offshore and inland waterways.

The memorandum of understanding will set out which organisation takes precedence where their responsibilities overlap, outlining the principles of cooperation to be adopted whilst respecting the different legal frameworks within which each operates.

RECORD VISITOR NUMBERS FOR CANNES 2021 Following a two-year absence, the Cannes Yachting Festival closed on 12 September having enjoyed visitor numbers matching those of 2019, a record year.

In total 54,400 people from around the world came to view the 575 exhibitors and 620 boats including 141 world debuts - over the show's six days.

“The more the opening date approached, the more we felt the motivation, enthusiasm, and growing impatience of our exhibitors and visitors to meet up in Cannes again,” said director Sylvie Ernoult.

“My memory of this edition will be that it was an incredible human experience. 2021 will remain unforgettable in many ways,” she added.

For the second time the festival was hosted across 8 Sailing boats on show at Port Canto both of Cannes'

6 | OCTOBER 2021

8 Sailing boats on show at Port Canto

ports - the Vieux Port and Port Canto. Motorboats featured at the Vieux Port with a new space reserved for fully electric and hybrid boats, a marina for motor multihulls and a sea trial area. The Vieux Port also hosted the Luxury Gallery showcasing the best of exclusive boating.

Sailing boats on show at Port Canto, included 20 world debuts alongside the Innovation Space

which showcased marine industry start-ups. Port Canto also featured the Yacht Brokerage Area and the latest must-have accessories for yachts or a day on the water.

Sustainability was the focus at the Green Circuit which featured more than 50 exhibitors working on concepts to reduce environmental impact within the nautical sector whilst the show itself promoted the use of recycled and recyclable materials.

THEPERSONBEHINDTHEFACE Dave Cockwell traditional craftsmanship and high-end customisation in a world dominated by production lines.

UK team The Wing Group has set up a new global business development and product team in the UK. Specialising in tactical and survival gear, the group encompasses the brands Wing, Henshaw Inflatables, Patten, Fabtek and Mustang Survival. Wing has already established a strong North American market share and is now expanding into the European market.

The new global team, based at Throope Down in Salisbury, will be led by current European MD, Nigel Parkes.

Groupe Bénéteau finalises investment

Photo: Cannes Yachting Festival

BRIEFS

How I got into this industry...

At the age of 15, I earned a reputation at Bristol Docks as 'the kid who could fix boats.' I became a 'one-man repair shop' who refitted and restored yachts. I quickly discovered that superior craftmanship was prized by wooden boat owners who sought desirable boats of the finest quality. I grasped this opportunity to hone my skills and provide these owners with the level of finish they required.

Today, Cockwells' growth strategy is based on targeting a niche market for

Best advice I’ve ever received...

If you don't lose half the jobs you quote for - you are too cheap.

One thing the industry needs less of is...

Border controls and the doubling up of VAT.

Interview by Alice Driscoll

Don't worry about...

Sales. Worry about building beautiful boats the right quality in the right timescale.

Favourite meal...

Fish and chips by the sea.

One thing I couldn’t live without...

Family (including my boat).

How I cope with stress...

I don't get stressed.

Most hated buzzword or workplace expression...

Buzzwords don't exist at Cockwells!

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

I'm quite a good ice skater!

Best place I’ve been...

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Dave Cockwell is founder and MD of Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding

Groupe Bénéteau together with Private financial group, PPF Group, has finalised its investment in Dream Yacht Group.

The joint venture will provide €60 million in new equity (60% from PPF and 40% by Groupe Bénéteau).

Together, the two new shareholders will hold 87% of the capital. The remaining 13% is held by Loïc Bonnet, founder and CEO of Dream Yacht Group, the management and investment fund NextStage, which is reinvesting €2.6 millions euros, and Fountaine-Pajot.

The injection of funds consolidates the Group's financial situation and strengthens its position in the fast-expanding sector of nautical tourism and boat rental.

“With the entry into our capital of two global players, that combine very high expertise in industry and finance, to the benefit of our strategy, Dream Yacht Group secures a solid financial platform to accelerate recovery,” said Loïc Bonnet, CEO and founder of Dream Yacht Group. “Our priority will be to meet the demand of a fast-growing clientele wishing to sail without constraints.”

And he explained that rental bookings for Dream Yacht Group for 2021 have broken records and occupancy rates have been at their highest level all season.

The Group is also expanding into the area of boat ownership under rental management with the expectation that more than 265 new sailboats, 100% French made (70% catamarans and 30% monohulls) could join the Group's fleet in the next two years.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

NEWS

BPA WELCOMES SHIP DEFINITION REVIEW

BRIEFS Agreement

Photo: Royal Navy

The British Ports Association has welcomed a proposal to close a legal 'definition of a ship' loophole which presently means that personal watercraft are outside the scope of some laws.

Personal watercraft, such as Jet Skis, are capable of high speeds and yet are currently unregulated as they fall outwith the legal definition of a ship.

Ports and harbours have expressed concerns about both the risk posed to other craft and swimmers and to Jet Ski users themselves.

Richard Ballantyne, chief executive of the BPA, said that the proposal to introduce legislation that closes the loophole was both welcome and important. “We have received many reports of Jet Skis being operated dangerously throughout the UK and sadly there have even been fatalities in recent years,” he said.

The case of R v Goodwin

uncovered the anomaly when the defendant successfully appealed a conviction for 'an act which caused or was likely to cause serious injury' under the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 after his Jet Ski collided with another in Weymouth in 2004. Mr Goodwin successfully

argued that a Jet Ski was not a 'ship' nor a 'vessel used in navigation'.

The consultation also addresses alcohol use, which is still not illegal in leisure marine. “While introducing new legislation may not address all safety and security problems, it would go a long way

8 Jet Skis are not currently defined as 'ships' and are therefore exempt from some laws

in ensuring Jet Skis are operated responsibly, and ultimately protect all types of leisure and marine users who visit our coastlines,” said Richard.

Rolls-Royce and Sea Machines Robotics have teamed up to deliver remote command, autonomous control and intelligent crew support systems. As part of this agreement RollsRoyce business unit Power Systems and Sea Machines will develop and market both fully and semi-autonomous vessel control systems primarily for yachts, commercial and government vessels.

Business sale

Kevin Mole Outboards has been sold, with the new owners planning to develop and expand the business. The business was founded in 1987 by Kevin Mole who wanted to provide a dedicated service for boating enthusiasts providing a reliable servicing and maintenance program for their vessels.

The new owners are Jason Field and Tom Wilson. First Peninsula Marine acted as advisors and agents.

Accessible Borrow A Boat is on a mission to make boating more accessible and affordable with the relaunch of its sister brand and a new crowdfunding campaign to raise funds ahead of a possible stock market float. The self-styled ‘Airbnb of boats’, Borrow A Boat also runs Own A Boat which allows boat enthusiasts to buy a boat and rent it out when not in use.

Own A Boat, originally launched in 2019, gives owners access to more than 1,000 charter companies and the opportunity to generate income from day one.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

OCTOBER 2021 | 7

NEWS

BRIEFS Dealership Prior Power Solutions has been awarded dealership status from engine brand Thornycroft. The partnership allows Prior Power Solutions to provide both seagoing and inland waterways engines to its customer base across East Anglia.

The partnership also allows the Great Yarmouth company to supply Thornycroft spares and parts.

Apprentices British Marine’s annual Apprenticeship Graduation Awards ceremony welcomed 39 apprentices along with their employers and families. The event, which took place at the Southampton International Boat Show, was opened by BM president, Ian Cooke, with Vendée Globe roundthe-world sailor Pip Hare, as guest speaker.

92,000 VISITORS TO GENOA 2021 The 2021 Genoa Boat Show saw more than 92,000 visitors over the six days of the event, 30% up on 2020, with a 12% increase in contracts signed compared to last year.

The show saw 78 events over the six days including conferences, seminars, technical workshops, panels and presentations and 5,874 sea trials with several new features.

“New is the adjective that best describes the 2021 edition of the Genoa International Boat Show,” said Saverio Cecchi, president of the Italian Marine Industry Association.

“The new Superyacht era, the new Sailing Quay, the new piers for RIBs, the new VIP Lounge, the new helicopter route, new prestigious partners, and a new era of growth for the industry as a whole.”

President of the Liguria

Regional Government, Giovanni Toti, added: "The positive figures could be felt clearly, walking through the Boat Show, as they grew day after day. This is an event that is the result of a system of synergies between so many factors, many commercial but also

social, relational. There have been regattas, talks, partnerships, this has been the full definition of an International Boat Show, experienced and engaging, almost a rite of passage towards the full recovery of our local territories and country. We now need

8 | OCTOBER 2021

to work hard in order to develop what we have sowed so far.”

The event was organised by the Italian Marine Industry Association, alongside I Saloni Nautici.

ALL WALES SHOW RETURNS IN 2022

Permission Premier Marinas has applied for planning permission to make a number of alterations to Gosport Marina, which overlooks Portsmouth Harbour. The £14 million investment will see Premier, which also owns Port Solent and Swanwick Marina, extend and refurbish a building currently in use by electronics manufacturer, STS Defence. The new building will accommodate key facilities for the marina including the marina reception and office, upgraded amenities, launderette, new berth holder’s lounge and revamped restaurant.

Seventy new homes are also planned for the site.

8 Genoa Boat Show 2021 saw a number of new features

The All Wales Boat and Leisure Show will return in 2022, moving under cover to the Venue Cymru in Llandudno.

It will take place earlier in the year than usual, on the weekend of February 5 and 6.

“The marine sector is

growing faster in Wales than any other part of the UK and watersports generate an annual tourism spend of more than £300 million,” said Davina Carey-Evans, MD of event organisers Sbarc.

“Much of that is generated by boating enthusiasts and it's

estimated that 25,000 trailer boats of all sizes are pulled along the A55 every year.”

And she said that there is a continued increase in other watersports, from surfing to canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing and paddleboarding.

“The show will reflect

that rich diversity of sports that are enjoyed not just along our coastline and in the seven marinas we have along the North Wales coast but on our rivers, canals and lakes,” she said.

There will be a host of boating and watersport activity providers at the event and the chance for visitors to get their hands on everything from boats to surfboards with exhibitors including training centres, sales and repair, marinas, chandlery, leisure parks, as well as have a go sessions and workshops.

Davina added: “There is something out there for everyone and we are aiming to showcase that at the show which has been moved to a new date, in February, and a new venue, Venue Cymru, in Llandudno.

The show has previously been held outdoors in Conwy, Pwllheli and on Anglesey.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

NEWS

£9.5m FOR THAMES IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAMME

creation of an offshore canoe 'portage' at Abingdon, further improvements to the dry dock facility at Sunbury and the construction of new fish passes at Sunbury Weir, Chertsey Weir and Mapledurham Weir.

The majority of the works will begin around November of this year with completion expected by March 2022.

A full list of 2021/22 improvements can be found at the government's website.

8 Rushey Lock is one of four on the Thames to be refurbished

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Brunswick acquires SemahTronix Multi-funtional, Uninterruped Power

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systems offerings by providing our ASG Connect organization and our global customers with access to high-quality, large, complex electrical wire harnessing systems that further enable our end-to-end systems solutions and capabilities,” said Brett Dibkey, Advanced Systems Group president.

“Adding SemahTronix will allow us the ability to vertically integrate, offering a higher degree of quality control and faster lead time, and aligns with our mission to expand within the rapidly growing system integration market and create opportunities for further growth in adjacent markets.”

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Brunswick Corporation has acquired SemahTronix, supplier of high-complexity electrical wiring harnesses for advanced products in the marine, mobile, and defence industries.

The company will become part of Brunswick's Advanced Systems Group (ASG) which also includes suppliers of advanced batteries, electrical power management, digital control and monitoring, and networked systems and devices.

Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

"The acquisition of SemahTronix immediately enhances our integrated

BRIEFS Capacity

Photo: Philip Halling

The Environment Agency has released its 2021/22 list of navigation improvements to the Thames and, with a total budget of £9.5 million, it's the largest investment programme in a decade.

The improvement works stretch from Lechlade near the river's source to the tidal limit at Teddington and include weir refurbishments, dock improvements and the construction of new fish passes.

“This year's massive investment in navigation infrastructure on the nontidal Thames demonstrates the magnitude of our commitment to support all forms of boating and boating businesses,” said Environment Agency waterways manager, Maria Herlihy.

“It will fund one of the most diverse and extensive programme of improvements for many, many years and further enhance the experience for tens of thousands of regular and visiting Thames boaters.”

Highlights include stairwell reconstruction, chamber fender replacements and resurfacing at four lock sites, the removal of wrecked vessels, the

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For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

01634 290772

www.es-store.co.uk

Gulf Craft has seen the number of new orders soar in 2021 as it pushes into the superyacht market amid a major expansion of its business across Europe. The company has added eight new distribution partners across 12 countries in Europe to meet growing demand from the continent and has also confirmed its membership of the Superyacht Builders Association. Order are up by 42% in the first half of 2021 and the company is ramping up its production capacity and retailer network in response.

Growth Estimated global revenue in the Italian boating industry is up nearly a quarter in 2021, according to data collected by the Italian Marine Industry Association Market Analysis Department. The growth of 23.8% exceeds the industry’s postlockdown recovery and, if it continues, might reach the 2007/08 highpoint.

The figures are being attributed to an increased demand for shipyard exports and a particularly exceptional performance in the superyacht, equipment and engines segments. The boating industry’s global revenue for 2020 reached €4.66 billion, representing a 1.36% growth in shipyard production.

The components sector contracted by 8.7%, mainly due to the effects of lockdown on production and supply chains. In terms of the wider economy, jobs in the sector were up 2.4% and boating’s contribution to GDP grew from 2.22% to 2.37%.

OCTOBER 2021 | 9

NEWS

BRIEFS New range Yamaha has launched its new range of aluminium hull inflatable boats.

Comprising three models, the new range’s aluminium construction makes for lightweight boats which require less horsepower, reducing fuel consumption and ownership costs. The aluminium hull also gives the vessels a rigidity which is said to enable easier handling in choppy waters.

Initiative The Andrew Simpson Foundation and boatfolk have teamed up to launch a not-for-profit initiative aiming to help get children and teens out on the water. boatgen will feature a range of activities including get afloat days for complete novices, sailing experience days, a pop-up boat club, career advice and a young ambassador programme.

Order book Azimut|Benetti Group’s order book is up threefold on the previous season and now stands at €1.2bn. Of this €1.2bn, about €900m is for models over 80ft and of the €900m, €508m has been booked in the last 90 days. Its value of production totalled €850m at the end of the 2020/21 yachting season, up €100m on the previous year. More than half the value of production (about €570m of the €850m) refers to boats over 80ft.

The Group’s Azimut Yachts and Benetti brands have delivered a total of 245 boats. Sales are balanced across the three main continents, with the Asia-Pacific region growing.

10 | OCTOBER 2021

boatfolk ACQUIRES WHYBOATS Whyboats boat brokerage has been acquired by boatfolk.

Whyboats, based in Hamble, was established in 2011 as a boat brokerage focusing on sales of monohull yachts, motorboats and catamarans.

After a move to Deacons Marina, it was appointed as the England, Northern Ireland, Ireland and Wales exclusive agent for Elan Yachts in 2016.

The acquisition will see Whyboats become a boatpoint - boatfolk's boat sales business - brokerage.

The business will be renamed boatpoint Hamble and will continue to be based at Deacons Marina and will continue to be an Elan Yachts dealer.

Partnership It will be the seventh boatpoint office, run in partnership with Network Yacht Brokers. boatfolk runs 11 marinas, Osculati has seen sales rise by 40% over pre-Covid times with a total turnover of €102 million euros in its last financial year.

The company believes the increase for the period September 2020 to August 2021, is down to its always-in-stock corporate philosophy.

In 2020 the company introduced a three-year investment plan in logistics and production for its headquarters in Segrate, near Milan.

The first phase of the plan consisted of €1.2 million investments in long-term storage capacity, upgrading and production site.

The second phase which includes the installation of eight new high-bay warehousing systems for faster handling of the goods - is due to be completed within the current year with an additional €900,000 investment.

including Portishead, Conway and Rhu. “boatfolk is an ambitious marina group looking to build on its success in the marina management business by incorporating an in-house boat sales

business - boatpoint,” said outgoing director of Whyboats, Ian Watkins.

Whyboats co-director, Andrew Hyland, will stay on and head up the new boatpoint brokerage office in

8 Whyboats will be renamed boatpoint Hamble

Southampton. He will also join boatpoint as group operations manager.

The sale was managed by First Peninsular Marine.

40% RISE FOR OSCULATI

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

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There just seems to be no escape from COVID, writes Adam Bernstein. For some, there was furlough, job loss, business turndown or failure. For others, hospitalisation, and death.

But what about those left with Long-COVID? Rising concern The illness is a real problem.

John Palmer, a Senior Adviser at ACAS, points to data from June (2021) where “the ONS published statistics that said nearly a million people in the UK had self-reported Long-COVID... a considerable number of employees have been, or will be, diagnosed with it and therefore the condition is likely to be a factor for many employers in all different manners of workplaces.”

In her day-to-day role, Jennifer Man, Principal Associate in the Employment Department of Eversheds Sutherland, says the matter usually arises when handling long-term sick leave. When it arises, she says “it is important the employer meets with the employee to understand their views on their condition and when they anticipate a return to work.” From there, she advises seeking medical evidence via a report from the employee's GP, or occupational health.

The reason for this is because, as Jennifer points out, it's “unclear whether Long-COVID amounts to a disability for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010.”

Disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that has a 'substantial' and 'longterm' negative effect on a person's ability to do normal day-to-day activities. “'Substantial'”, says Jennifer, “is something which is more than minor or trivial. 'Longterm' means a condition that has lasted or is likely to last 12 months or more.”

12 | OCTOBER 2021

THE LONG MARCH OF COVID is in question, and prior to the potential final meeting, they should be advised that one outcome of the meeting may be dismissal.”

That said, it can be difficult for an employer to justify a dismissal taking place before company sick pay has been exhausted.

Similarly, if there is a group income protection policy in place, whether the employee could benefit should be explored before any dismissal.

Dealing with a claim So, how should employers deal with employees claiming Long-COVID, especially where symptoms aren't obvious?

Jennifer's view is surprisingly simple. She says that “it is not for an employer to diagnose or 'disprove' a condition and the impact it has on the employee. Rather, it is incumbent upon them to understand the employee's view and the medical evidence.” This will allow an assessment of where a return to work is likely in the reasonably foreseeable future, and whether there is anything they can do to assist the employee.

John takes a similar line.

He says that “when it comes to supporting an employee directly, the best starting point is to keep channels open between the manager and the employee so an ongoing conversation can take place about ways to offer support.”

Long-COVID needs to be treated in the same

way as any other illness or long-term incapacity.

With a period of sickness absence for longer than seven calendar days, no matter how many days they work each week, employees should get a fit note from their doctor.

There is a legal duty placed upon employers, which John details, “to consider making reasonable adjustments when they know, or could be expected to know, an employee or job applicant has a disability and if an employee or job applicant with a disability asks for adjustments.”

But as to what amounts to a 'reasonable' adjustment will, says Jennifer, depend on the information from the employee and the medical evidence and what the business can feasibly accommodate.

Dismissal?

Can an employer dismiss an employee in this situation?

Both John and Jennifer say the same: An employer dealing with Long-COVID

needs to follow a fair process and should have regard to its own absence management policy.

Jennifer says that “usually, a fair process will involve meeting the employee a number of times, as the prognosis may change, and understanding the medical evidence.” She adds that if it becomes clear that there is unlikely to be a return to work in the reasonably foreseeable future, and there is nothing the employer can do to support the employee in a return - and any reasonable adjustments have been explored - then it may be appropriate to dismiss.

John approaches this from a slightly different angle - that the employee has not done anything wrong, “but something has still happened that means they are no longer able to carry out the job they were employed to do.”

Nevertheless, Jennifer says that “the employee should be warned that the viability of their employment

Employee rights If an employer does not follow a full and fair procedure, an employee could have a case for unfair dismissal, even if the reason for dismissing them was valid.

Employers should be under no illusion that if a case is brought before an Employment Tribunal, and it finds that an employee has been unfairly dismissed, compensation could be awarded based on an employee's loss of earnings. As Jennifer outlines, compensation is made up of a basic award which uses the same formula as a statutory redundancy payment and a compensatory award of up to one year's pay, capped at £89,493.

And if the treatment is found to be discriminatory, or reasonable adjustments have not been made, compensation will be uncapped and will reflect likely ongoing loss of earnings and an award for injury to feelings.

Conclusion COVID is the stuff of science fiction. But it is with us and while the majority deal with it, many will suffer well into the future; it's a problem that they, their families and their employers will have to deal with for some time.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

ONBOARD POWER

NEW BATTERY AND CHARGERS FROM MASTERVOLT 8 The ChargeMaster Plus is compatible with all battery types

Mastervolt has expanded its ChargeMaster Plus range of chargers and developed a new lithium ion battery.

Available in both 12 and 24V models, the new MLI Ultra 1250 is the most compact battery in Mastervolt's range and is said to last three times longer than traditional leadacid batteries. Weighing 15kg and measuring 330 by 173 by 210mm, the MLI Ultra 1250 has been designed as a drop-in replacement for

size Group 31 and Group 49 (85-90Ah) batteries.

The MLI Ultra 1250 has a lifespan of over 2000 cycles at a depth of discharge of 80% and can be recharged within 60 minutes. It comes equipped with a Mastervolt battery management system that uses a selflearning algorithm to predict the behaviour of each individual battery cell and balance load accordingly.

Compatible with MasterBus, CZone and

NMEA2000 the MLI Ultra 1250 is fully waterproof and has a heat-pad and low-temperature control to ensure optimal charging performance at freezing temperatures. It also has an integrated battery safety switch which automatically disconnects the cells in the event of abnormal operation.

ChargeMaster Plus The ChargeMaster Plus range now features an additional four models - the 12/35-3, 12/50-3, 24/20-3 and the 24/30-3. All four have three outputs for fast charging with a pre-float that eliminates the risk of overcharging.

Usable as both standalone chargers or as part of a larger system, the new models - like all Mastervolt chargers integrate multiple functions

into one single device. The chargers also have built-in priority charge, which redirects available power to the battery with the least charge and a revival mode to automatically revive batteries should they become fully depleted.

The ChargeMaster Plus family uses the Mastervolt automatic 3-Step+ charge algorithm and comes with predefined charge profiles for all commonly used battery types, including lithium-ion, as well as flexibility for a customised profile.

Compatible with displays, shunts and power systems including standards such as CZone and NMEA 2000, the ChargeMaster Plus chargers can handle all global grid voltages and also resist large voltage spikes and high temperatures.

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For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

New serviceable lithium ion battery Merlin Equipment has launched a number of new products over the last 12 months that include a serviceable Essential Lithium Ion Battery.

The Essential battery is available in 12, 24 and 48V at 1.4kWH. With an onboard BMS up to ten units can be connected in parallel for large capacity battery banks.

The battery is designed for heavy duty, high vibration environments and fits an industry standard 31 case footprint.

Other features include 5,000 life cycles and a ten-year warranty.

On the power conversion side, Merlin has launched both commercial and professional grade inverter, charger and combi units.

Compact The Powersine Combi 1600W-1800W (12V/24V) are compact all in one combinations of a true sinewave inverter, a powerful battery charger and an automatic transfer switch.

The inverter-charger recharges the house batteries when AC power is available at the input.

The device also allows any surplus AC power to pass through and power downstream AC loads, such as a television or microwave oven.

When no AC power available, the unit inverts DC battery power into clean AC electricity.

Features of the combi include an AC input power boost, which temporarily assists weak AC input sources when more power is needed than available.

Another feature is AC input current limit, which limits the maximum current consumed from the AC input source by the combi when it is in charger mode.

OCTOBER 2021 | 13

ONBOARD POWER Remote battery monitoring Boat owners can rest easy knowing their vessel batteries are powered up with the chargemetrix remote battery monitoring system.

Robert Kettlety launched chargemetrix to offer a remote real-time 'dashboard' view of batteries on boats 24/7.

The pandemic put paid to marketing and market and selling the product, however the time allowed Robert to identify further development opportunities and engage with specialist companies to enhance the product.

"The second half of 2021, with the leisure market getting back to some state of normality, has resulted in widespread interest in the chargemetrix remote battery monitoring product," said Robert.

The remote monitoring system provides accurate reporting every 15 minutes through a smartphone, tablet or personal computer.

"Through state-of-the-art technology and user-friendly graphics, the range of chargemetrix marine remote monitors and accessories provide up-to-date connectivity with any boat 24/7," added Robert.

Other remote monitoring facilities have been added to the system, such as being able to monitor the engine battery, temperature, GPS location, bilge status, shore power, and alarms.

The chargemetrix monitor has been designed to reduce CO2 and waste.

Extending the life of existing battery- powered assets reduces the burden on raw materials and the impact of emissions.

14 | OCTOBER 2021

FOUR OPTIONS FOR FOLD UP PANELS A new range of lightweight, slimline fold-up solar panels designed to deliver rapid battery charging on the go have been launched

by Solar Technology International.

Available in 40w, 60w, 90w and 120w options, the panels fold into a carry case, making them suitable for uses where portability, space and weight are critical.

The panels will charge a 12v battery when moored or at anchor, when there is no access to mains electric hook up, or when the engine isn't running.

The panels will also extend the life of a 12v battery with a constant trickle feed of power whilst the boat is in winter storage.

Integrated stands give the panels stability on a boat deck, or other flat surface, and loops on each side can be used to secure the panel to the cabin with bungee cords.

Paguro has two new generators, the 5.5 SY and the 4 MY. The 4 MY is a compact high-output generator which uses the Yanmar L70N engine - also used on the Paguro 4 SY with permanent magnet generator technology.

The 5.5 SY is pitched at providing a competitively priced generator with a high-power output.

It is similar in size and uses the same ‘synchronous’ alternator as the Paguro 6000, but uses the smaller and lighter Yanmar L100N engine.

“The new 4 MY is going to be a real showstopper as it has pushed the boundaries

An in-line 10Ah charge controller ensures that the power charge from the solar panel to the battery is regulated and in an inbuilt diode prevents reverse battery feed.

Lights indicate the state

of charge in the battery.

Connecting the panels o a 12v battery can be carried out with crocodile clips, or the 12v auto plug, which can be stored in the panel's pocket.

The PV Logic fold up

8 The new fold-up panels are available in 40, 60, 90 and 120w options.

Inset: The new solar panels fold into a carry case

panels are supplied with instructions and a two-year world-wide warranty.

TWO NEW PAGURO GENERATORS

8 Paguro’s new generators have easy to read, remote control panels

of small and powerful,” said Rod Boreham, MD of UK distributor Advance Yacht. “The 5.5 SY is a great solution for customers who need a bit more power but want to keep budget

and weight under control – it will be the biggest unit in our family of quiet running Yanmar powered generators.”

With a start load capability of 60A, the

Paguro 5.5 SY has a 5kVA output and is suitable for starting power hungry equipment such as start/ stop air conditioning units or a large watermaker.

Both generators are encased in a four-stage soundproof capsule, keeping noise as low as possible.

They also have advanced anti-vibration feet to ensure that noise transmitted by vibration is kept to a minimum.

Other features include an easy to read, remote control panel. A load indicator allows users to see the amount of power that is being consumed.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

ONBOARD POWER

Diesel/electric conversion Energy Solutions is the exclusive UK distributor for WaterWorld's range of 48 volt DC electric motors, designed to replace

SYSTEMS AND DRIVES FROM ENERGY SOLUTIONS Fischer Panda generator for new Oyster

Photo: Numarine

Energy Solutions has supplied an electric drive for a gentleman's launch conversion and electrical systems for Numarine's Explorer range of expedition yachts.

The Explorer range comprises five models ranging from 22 to 45 metres. Energy Solutions has designed the electrical systems for the entire range, bringing its experience to these new builds.

“The systems on board already made extensive use of Victron components - this has been enhanced with the use of the new Cerbo GX products to gather data from many systems, and then feed a custom display at the helm,” said Dan Cox, engineering manager at Energy Solutions.

diesel motors in boats up to 15 metres and larger canal craft. Last year, the company supplied a 10kW WaterWorld electric drive with a 48V 400A Sonnenshien battery bank and integrated control screen for Harvest Moon, a gentleman's launch based

at Hurley on the Thames.

Originally built with a diesel engine, the launch was converted by Steve Hoile of Henley Technical Services whose wife Gillian owns Henley Sales and Charter as well as electrical boat specialists, E-Boatique and Pure Boating.

8 The Numarine Explorer 22XP

“Owners comment to me that they zone out when they drive an electric boat and get to truly enjoy the sound of the river, the water and their company,” said Gillian. ”It really does change the way they feel about being on the water.”

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Oyster Yachts has selected variable speed iSeries generators from Fischer Panda UK as standard fit on board the Oyster 495, the first all-new model under Richard Hadida's ownership.

Oyster Yachts is offering the Panda 8000i standard capsule design in multivoltage EU 230V and US 120V as an option for Oyster 495 owners, with ten generators already supplied for installation on the initial production models.

“We are delighted to partner with Fischer Panda UK - their next generation 8000i generator meets the same high standards we hold ourselves to and adds another level of quality to our yachts that sets Oyster apart from the competition,” said Richard Hadida, chief executive and owner of Oyster Yachts.

Suitable for boats from 45 to 85 foot and for owners with limited space, the 8000i is fitted with sound insulation and twin circuit water cooling.

The speed of the diesel engine is adjusted according to the user's changing power requirements while the output voltage always remains constant from the PMGI inverter, improving fuel efficiency and reducing wear and tear.

“Our iSeries generators are quiet, light, environmentallyfriendly and fuel-efficient power and battery-charging solutions that will offer Oyster customers the reliable and non-intrusive onboard experience they expect,” said Chris Fower, sales and marketing director, Fischer Panda UK. OCTOBER 2021 | 15

ONBOARD POWER

40% GROWTH FOR WHISPERPOWER

8 WhisperPower has redefined its component and product business

WhisperPower has seen more than 40% growth over the last 12 months, equally divided between marine and mobile/ off-grid markets.

The company opened a standalone UK office in Sheffield in 2020 and has appointed All Boat Services and its sister company Marine Energy Systems as OEM marine distributor and has also signed E. P. Barrus as distributor to cover all markets except mobile medical.

“Product-wise, we have defined our diesel generator sales together with our OctoPower systems sales, and our component and product business as the three strategic business fields,” said Roel ter Heide, WhisperPower CEO and founder.

“We are getting more and more OEM marine customers moving to WhisperPower; well-known names like Nautor Swan, Marex, Axopar and recently Princess Yachts. They are our latest new customer added to our clientele, ordering our compact Piccolo range of diesel generators for the X80.”

Princess will also be installing WhisperPower's Lithium Power Plus battery tower.

And he explained that trends being seen include more silent gensets, more compact integration with Lithium storage and inverters, plus monitoring software that connects to the Cloud and other onboard systems.

NEW LITHIUM BATTERY BRAND Super-B with its UK distributor Clean Energy Living has launched its high-performance lithium batteries to the marine sector under its own Super-B branding.

The company previously supplied its lithium batteries as white label to other recognised marine brands.

Super B's long-lasting lithium batteries fit all types of vessels and are suitable for a range of marine applications.

The lithium-ion phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are built to last for a longer period of time and engineered to be extremely safe, explained Clean Energy Living director Martin Richardson.

The batteries have fast charging and slow discharging, holding their charged capacity far longer than lead-acid batteries.

In addition, the chemical 16 | OCTOBER 2021

compositions used in the batteries have a higher energy density meaning less space is required to store energy and weight is reduced.

The lithium options range from small 7.5-25Ah starter batteries providing a pulse discharge in excess of 1000A to the Nomia

8 Super B's lithium batteries are suitable for a range of marine applications

210Ah, Nomada 105 Ah and Epsilon 150 Ah with high continuous discharge current and high pulse discharge current.

Super-B batteries are manufactured in the Netherlands.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

ONBOARD POWER

NEW REGULATOR AND MONITOR Manufacturer of onboard DC charging systems, Balmar, has released two new DC charging products, the MC-618 Smart Regulator and SG205 Battery Monitor.

The MC-618 upgrades Balmar's MC-614 alternator regulator by adding communication capabilities through a connection to the SG200 family of battery monitors.

This allows real-time alternator and regulator information to be displayed on either the SG200 display and/or the Balmar smartphone app.

Balmar has also added new regulation features to the MC-618, including a 'Force-to-Float' capability, cold weather protection for lithium batteries and an additional standard charging profile for Firefly carbon foam AGM batteries.

The SG205 extends Balmar's SG200 product

MARKETING CHRIS JONES is founder of the Knot Agency

family, eliminating the need for the bulkhead mounted display.

The product comes with a SmartShunt and Bluetooth gateway for users who want to view battery and regulator information from their smartphones.

The SG205 SmartShunt is expandable if displays or

additional battery banks are added at a future date.

Both products work with Apple iOS and Google Android devices.

“Balmar customers for years have requested we include a topside display capability with our Max Charge regulator family,” explained Chris Witzgall,

8 Balmar has released two new DC charging products

Balmar product manager.

“With the MC-618 and SG205 working together, boaters and RV owners can see what the charging system is doing in real-time and also set up or adjust charging programs from their smartphones.”

NEW PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE FROM VICTRON

Cerbo GX The Cerbo GX communications centre now has the GX Touch 50 and GX Touch 70 - a five or seven inch touch screen display which gives users instant overview and control of their systems - and the

and the company's range of busbars and fuse holders has been expanded with the addition of the Battery Switch ON/ OFF 275A.

Photo: Victron

Victron has unveiled a raft of new products, updates to firmware and software and an enhanced portal to its Victron Remote Management service.

The company, distributed in the UK by Ecobat (formerly Barden), has released a new SmartSolar MPPT RS solar charge controller for systems with large series-connected PV arrays charging 48 V DC battery banks. Also new is the EasySolar II GX which combines the solar charge controller with an inverter/ charger and control hub in one enclosure.

new GX Tank 140 which takes readings from up to four tank level sensors.

The new Lynx Smart BMS is a battery management system designed exclusively for Victron Lithium Smart batteries whilst the SolidSwitch 104 can switch DC loads of up to 70V/4A. The company's Blue Smart IP22 chargers can now be charged for

8 The GX Touch 50 and GX Touch 70 are display accessories for the Cerbo GX

synchronised charging and the new Anti-Islanding Box 63A combines an anti-islanding device, the Ziehl UFR1001E, two in-line contactors and a main circuit breaker.

The Inverter RS Smart Solar is now available without the solar input

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

Software updates and VRM portal VictronConnect now shows the cell-status of its Smart Lithium batteries and has improved Bluetooth connectivity and new background scanning. The Venus OS now includes a new tank page, a factory default reset function, configurable override for DVCC maximum voltage and support for new products such as the Inverter RS and Lynx Smart BMS. Finally the VRM portal has been enhanced to add more features to the dashboard and enable easier management of installations.

Businesses are getting increasingly involved in Instagram, but many are still unsure, writes Chris Jones. Here are our top tips to help get you started.

5 Use a public account (not private) so content can be seen by everyone. Switch to a Business Profile to access special features and insights.

5 It is primarily for mobile use. You can log in and view images on the desktop site but posting is not possible directly.

5 Your bio is your only chance to link to other profiles or website - you can't put links in posts.

5 Follow other accounts and hashtags used in the industry - it's good to benchmark what others are posting and what is popular.

5 Hashtags make your posts searchable and allow non-followers to find your content. Users can save relevant hashtags and 'Top Posts' from that hashtag will appear in their news feed. You can use up to 30 hashtags, however best practise is around five to seven.

5 Instagram uses a complex algorithm to determine what gets seen. It is important to create interesting posts and to post frequently. Using Instagram stories and posting video content will drive higher engagement.

The Instagram algorithm relies on hashtags to designate Top Posts, which get shared to people's news feeds.

5 Always tag other accounts into your posts where relevant to drive engagement from other audiences.

OCTOBER 2021 | 17

MARINA EQUIPMENT

NEW P&D WASTE COLLECTING ROVER 8 Nanotechnology is being used to tackle algae blooms in a Florida marina

Nanobubble technology used to tackle algae Nanobubble technology could be used as a way to tackle algae in marinas, harbours and canals.

US based nanobubble technology company Moleaer has partnered with a Florida university to study the impact of nanobubble technology.

Moleaer's Clear nanobubble generators have been installed in the Pahokee Marina in Lake Okeechobee, with the marina chosen as algal blooms have been increasing in number and severity as a result of increased nutrient loading and climate change.

“Our nanobubble technology has already been proven to increase dissolved oxygen concentrations in lakes and ponds and produce a chemical-free oxidative effect that may combat algae directly and helps reduce the availability of the nutrients they need to cause nuisance blooms,” said Nick Dyner, Moleaer CEO. “This is an opportunity to further study and validate how nanobubbles can clean waterways on a larger scale.”

Nanobubbles are minute gas bubbles that are invisible to the naked eye. The bubbles remain suspended in water for long periods, enabling oxygen transfer and supersaturation of dissolved gas in liquids.

The oxygenation is used to reduce and prevent contaminants such as algae, algae toxins, pathogens, and other organic materials.

18 | OCTOBER 2021

P&D Marine Services has introduced its P&D Waste Rover, a small robot developed to collect waste from waterways.

The rover will collect both surface waste and waste which is just below the water line including microplastics.

It will also clear chemical/oil spills from the water and can be remotely operated by one person. It has a range of 1,000m using an onboard camera.

“Marinas, boatyards and harbours are not simply a car park for boats,” explained Neill Walker, P&D group business development manager. “People look at the environmental approach that marinas, harbours and local authorities take to maintaining a plastic free environment and how they invest in continuing to maintain the quality of the water for birds, fish and smaller indigenous

species that the food chain relies upon to maintain the eco system.

Discarded He added: “Millions of pounds are spent each year to inform and educate, however this is not always enough, as we

still find waterways littered with discarded waste to the detriment of the environment.”

“One of our six companies, P&D Marine Services, has been working to create a solution to this ever-growing problem, to remove plastic and other waste products

8 The P&D Waste Rover has a range of 1,000m

from our waterways, to provide clean and waste free marinas, harbours, lakes, rivers and canals.”

The P&D Waste Rover is available to hire or purchase or via a P&D serviced solution.

Yacht cradles

Stands to suit all sizes of craft

Powerboat stands

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

MARINA EQUIPMENT Marine-i is supporting a new mooring system for use in Falmouth Harbour..

The system is designed to help increase the operating capacity in the harbour, without the need for large-scale infrastructure development.

This project, led

by Falmouth Harbour Commissioners, intends to meet the challenge of anchoring large vessels or platforms without the requirement of large capacity lifting vessels.

A modular system with numerous relatively lightweight components has been developed to enable easier installation, maintenance and decommissioning operations.

Two previous stages of research have identified a solution, an eight-legged mooring system with multiple gravity and drag anchors.

Prototype The next stage is the building and testing of a prototype. If the results are positive, full-scale trials of a complete modular mooring system will take place, followed by certification and commercialisation.

MODULAR MOORING SYSTEM TO BE TRIALLED

LESLEY ROBINSON British Marine CEO

“If successful, the impact of this new mooring system on Falmouth Harbour operations would be felt for many years to come,” said Miles Carden, chief executive of Falmouth Harbour Commissioners.

“The project will push the boundaries of the economics and feasibility of large

holding power mooring systems,” added Prof Lars Johanning, programme director for Marine-i.

“Gravity anchors and drag embedment anchors will be applied in a novel configuration, using very innovative techniques.”

Part funded by the

8 Falmouth Harbour is to trial a new mooring system for larger vessels

European Regional Development Fund, Marine-i is designed to help the marine tech sector in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly grow through research and innovation.

BOOKING REQUEST FROM HARBOUR ASSIST Marina software system Harbour Assist has launched a new booking feature, allowing boaters to make reservations for any service via a simple widget embedded on the marina's website.

Booking Request gives customers the power to request a visitor berth, a lift ashore, a boat clean, concierge services like refuelling or blackwater pump-out, or even reserve tickets for the marina party or a training course at any time, from anywhere, making it convenient for the customer and efficient for the operator.

Marinas using Harbour Assist can configure Booking Request for any service or product and make edits to availability and capacity.

Latest news from

“There are more boaters on the water, and more are demanding the convenience of online bookings,” said Harbour Assist CRO Nick Gill.

“It makes sense to build a system that is an integral part of the customer journey for any marina activity, not just visitor berths.”

Customer requests are delivered straight into the Harbour Assist software for

scheduling, task allocation and invoicing.

Built-in capacity management stops overbooking and gives the marina tools to flex availability around staffing

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

levels, seasonality or even equipment outages.

Automatic email or SMS notifications keep customers and team members informed when the request q status changes.

British Marine's latest research confirms that strong growth in boating and watersports is continuing.

Boat sales in the first half of 2021 are 21% higher than results in 2019.

Three-quarters of British Marine members are reporting confidence in their future prospects.

A highly successful Southampton International Boat Show was built on that momentum. Its remodelled layout, including five new zones, powerfully connected the show with the heart of the local community. More than 88,000 visitors viewed 350 exhibitors and 500 boats in a closely monitored environment that exceeded health guidelines.

Exhibiting companies reported strong sales and great visitor quality. Nearly 14,000 visitors got out on the water, 25% up versus 2019. It was the perfect reward for the show's valued supporters and there is plenty to build on for an exciting future.

Days later I am writing this column while working at our Monaco Yacht Show Superyacht UK stand. It's the 18th time British Marine has represented the global excellence of our members in this sector and great to be back flying the flag after an enforced 18 months out.

We're also well underway with plans for our industry's first National Conference, focusing on Innovating for Success. Please reserve 15-16 March 2022, visit www.britishmarine.co.uk/ NationalConference OCTOBER 2021 | 19

MARINA EQUIPMENT

Walcon Marine supplied its System 21 modular pontoon design to Tingdene Marinas' Broadlands Marina, near Lowestoft.

The pontoons use a galvanised steel frame supported on fibre-reinforced concrete floats and have provided the marina with a new 88m in length back walkway plus three piers with finger pontoons.

The works have provided an additional 54 berths for leisure craft up to 12m in length.

Piers A and B are 43m each in length with eight finger pontoons and a hammerhead, creating berths for 40 boats up to 10m in length. Pier C features a 38.5m walkway with eight finger pontoons providing 14 berths of which eight are for boats of up to 10m and six for boats up to 12m. Walcon also supplied a 6.25m by 1.5m aluminium bridge with a landing pontoon. The entire structure is held in place by 17 piles.

The site of the marina presented a challenge for Walcon in that it is inaccessible to heavy vehicles.

The solution was for Walcon to transport the pontoons by lorry to Tingdene's Brundall Bay Marina, around 20 miles away on the Norfolk Broads. Once delivered there, they were launched into the water and then, over the course of five weeks, moved downriver using motor launches to push and pull them.

Installation and associated works were undertaken by Irvins.

20 | OCTOBER 2021

DURA COMPOSITES ENHANCES DATA

Dura Composites, supplier of composite grating, walkways, access structures and profiles for marinas and ports, has uploaded its core pontoon grating range to its NBS Source platform for the first time.

Available for free, the enhanced product information for the company's Dura Grating

8 d2 Dura Grating is the latest in Dura Composites GRP grating series

and Dura Profile allows naval architects, designers, contractors, specifiers and marina asset owners to see up-to-date, accurate data about Dura Composites products and incorporate them into an overall project design.

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The availability of the enhanced data is the latest step in Dura Composites' ambition to make composite products the first choice for all marina projects and builds on the release of its interactive product selector tool.

“The tool is the result of years of extensive academic research and rigorous

8 Enhanced data is now easily available on Dura Composites core pontoon grating range

live and simulated testing to help those within the marine industry to make fast and accurate decisions about the right product specification for their projects,” explained Nadia Harvey, head of marketing for Dura Composites.

CARRICK ON SHANNON SHORESIDE ACCESS IMPROVED

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems has helped improve shoreside access to the Carrick on Shannon Public Marina.

Working with Deane Public Works, Inland and Coastal designed and manufactured the new installation which includes a 3m wide fuel berth and eight access gangways with lifebuoy housings and safety ladders, all anchored by a new piled mooring system.

8 The new boardwalk at Carrick on Shannon Public Marina is 340m long by 2.4m wide

The heavy-duty pontoon system is topped with Inland and Coastal's glass reinforced concrete (GRC) decking to provide safe and non-slip, all year-round access to the marina's onsite facilities.

It wraps around the length of the marina site connecting the quay side to an access road and car park.

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

MARINA EQUIPMENT

The Rothen Group (TRG) has introduced new recognition to award its most experienced operators with 'Lifting Legends' status, in a bid to raise the bar for lifting safety and ensure best practice.

Lifting Legends goes above and beyond the minimum health and safety guidelines set out for lifting in accordance with the Construction Design and Management (CDM) regulations.

So far, two employees in the business, Russ Sweet and Joe Kiteley, have achieved the recognition with being assessed to ensure that the standard of their lifting knowledge and execution remain exemplary.

Having advanced experience in all types of lifting means that Lifting Legends can act as senior consultants to support on-site contracting teams with lifting supervision, or to

VANCLAES UNVEILS NEW STAINLESS-STEEL TRAILER

Extra revenue stream for marinas

Photo: Vanclaes

Dutch trailer manufacturer Vanclaes has unveiled its new range of stainless-steel trailers - Excelleron Wave at this year's Southampton International Boat Show.

The company hopes to plug a gap it sees in the market for quality trailers for the increasing number of towable boats and outboard engine craft.

“It's our belief that many UK boat owners want a trailer with a superior build quality, with a more 'prestigious' look and feel that only full stainless-steel can offer,” explained MD, Stian Duijvelaar.

“The new Excelleron Wave is a trailer with added features and benefit as standard, offers long-term reliability, simplicity of use and true peace of mind for UK and Europe-wide towing, launch and recovery."

Suitable for RIBS, sportsboats and v-hull designs, an Excelleron Wave can be made to fit all types of boat hulls, with maximum

displacement up to +/2,800kg. The roller system automatically adjusts to the profile of the hull and 'selfcentres' the boat, guiding it safely to and from the water during launch and recovery with the help of the winch.

Standard features

include full stainless-steel chassis; single, double, or triple axle trailers; shock-absorbers on each braked axle; adjustable stainless-steel winch post; self-braking winch with strap; retractable jockey wheel; waterproof LED

8 Vanclaes new range of stainless-steel trailers

lighting which remains fixed to the trailer; waterproof bearings mounted inside sealed hubs; scuff-proof self-centring rollers and approval for use on all European roads.

TRG AWARDS ITS OPERATORS

provide guidance to newly trained personnel.

“Whether we offer a fullservice contract solution including equipment and teams to execute works or hire out our

extensive boating and plant equipment without our operators, safety is always paramount,” said Ian Rothen, TRG founder. “All of our staff go through rigorous lifting and health and

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

8 The Rothen Group aims to raise lifting standards

safety training. It is also our policy to ensure that only competent persons can use our equipment.”

Peter Leonard Marine has a new pump out boat, the Smartliner 23, suitable for use as a holding tank discharge boat or as fire-fighting craft.

The modified passenger ferry is designed and manufactured in Poland by the founder and of Quicksilver and Arvor boats, Pierre Charlot.

It can be fitted with a LeeSan pump out unit, a portable pump out caddy which can be a petrol or electric version. A baffle tank prevents sloshing.

“Marinas can take the pump-out to their customers' boats,” explained Peter Leonard. “The boat can take the capacity and weight - it can hold around 700kg when full.

“The pumping system can be used to pump out boats taking on water via a long suction hose, and it can be used for fire-fighting with the addition of a fire pump. There are endless possibilities for the craft.

“It can provide a new revenue stream for marinas.”

Peter added: “We're doing our best to stop sewage from going in the sea. The inland market has pump-out wrapped up, but coastal is not yet sorted.”

The boat can also be used as a tow boat. The Smartliner 23 has a length of 7.15m with a beam of 2.54m and draft of 0.48m. Its weight is 1175kg without the pump system and engine and it has a 190-litre fuel tank capacity and is category D. Other features include safe access to the bow for the operator through a bow door and a storage cuddy forward. Standard equipment includes a swivelling pilot chair, navigation light, manual and electric bilge pump, a manual and electric bilge pump, a switch panel with USB plug and a folding ladder.

OCTOBER 2021 | 21

MARINA EQUIPMENT

Multiple vessel mooring Seafloatech's latest addition to its range is the Fishbone.

The product is a collective mooring platform, which can be installed in open sea and can withstand wind, waves and tide.

“The idea for the Fishbone came about at a time when we were looking to optimise mooring multiple vessels at a single point, while minimising the dredging linked to the wind and the current, and at the same time minimising costs,” explained Lionel Péan, Seafloatech president and founder.

The Fishbone modules are fixed to the seabed with the Seafloatech POD, a seabed-to-surface anchoring device that stabilises the surface module, while reducing its rotational radius. It is adaptable to different marine environments.

The POD allows several vessels to be moored without being individually anchored.

In addition, the Fishbone can be adapted to dock a range of vessels up to 15m.

“By increasing the number of boats for the same price, the installation becomes much more financially viable,” added Lionel.

The POD has recently been awarded the 'Solar Impulse Efficient Solution' label, which Seafloatech says it meets high standards in profitability and sustainability.

It provides an alternative to conventional solutions such as chains and anchors as it is connected to the seabed with a singular fixed mast which is articulated at its base.

A hydraulic piston allows the upper part to swing from side to side and up and down in line with a sea swell and minimising the effects of the tide.

22 | OCTOBER 2021

Ocean Footprint is in talks with marinas regarding swapping out their standard toilets for the distributor's new water saving toilet systems from Propelair.

TThe toilets have been widely adopted in fast food outlets, hospitals and motorway service stations for the financial and environmental benefits from the first flush, explained Ocean Footprint's Peter Harrison.

“The Propelair toilet, now in its third generation, uses compressed air to assist in the flush process and reduces the flush water volume to 1.5 litres per flush,”

NEW TOILETS USE COMPRESSED AIR

Versadock has a new inflatable platform, Versadock air.

The platform is designed for simple, effective flotation for a variety of uses. The platform can be inflated, launched, anchored, deflated and stored, with rigidity provided by a double

NEW PLATFORM FROM VERSADOCK

8 The Propelair toilet uses 1.5 litres of water for each flush

he said. “Compare that to a standard toilet flush of up 9 litres and that equates to

drop stitch material construction.

“Making the most of our leisure time has never been so important and we feel that this product really taps into that,” said Chris Davison, Versadock manager. “It's perfect

a reduction in both water usage and effluent stream by up to 90%.

for swimming off, wakeboarding from, getting the tender alongside; we even had someone doing Yoga on it.”

Other key features of the platform include an anti-slip EVA deck surface, a 316 stainless,

“In addition, the toilet is also able to be ready for the next flush in just 30 seconds, increasing the capacity of the toilet blocks by up to 50%.”

Existing installations can be converted to use the Propelair toilets with 1.5in pipe work required. The toilets are Internet of Things ready with information fed back to a central computer showing status, usage stats and error messages.

retractable ladder, stainless steel anchorage points, a ballast bag system for increased stability and a storage bag.

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PROFILE

JAMES BARKE MD of Boats.co.uk

Few people in the boating industry can track a business launch back to Ford Motor Company founder, Henry Ford, but for Boats.co.uk MD, James Barke, there’s a clear link “My grandfather, Allen Barke, left Manchester in the 1920s to escape the depression and hitchhiked to Essex. He found work clocking people onto their shift at the Ford factory in Dagenham and rose through the ranks to become MD of Ford UK, reporting to Henry Ford II. The factory produced 3,000 Cortinas a day and had 50,000 employees.

“When dad used to answer the home phone to Henry, he always asked who it was (even though he knew), just so he could hear him bellow ‘it’s Henry Ford here’.”

In the 1960s, James’ father David also joined Ford, however outside of work his passion lie with boats and making boat trailers. “Dad was lucky because his family could afford to ‘play’ with fibreglass boats which were very expensive at the time. He soon realised there was a demand for sports boats, and this prompted him to start his own business.”

In 1969, David launched Essex-based David Barke Marine, operating from a small yard in Woodham Ferrers. As sales grew, so did the need for space and in 1982, David moved to new premises at Fullbridge Quay, Morden.

Early age James, the eldest of four boys, was born in 1974 and from an early age could be found in his dad’s boat yard.

“It was only a two-minute walk from home, and I always had a job to do on the 30 or so boats for sale mainly painting or pumping out the bilges.”

24 | OCTOBER 2021

from scratch and sail across the Atlantic. Crazy times!”

Today all the Barke siblings are involved in the business; Guy joined in the mid 90s and David Junior in 2004. They acquired the boats.co.uk brand in 2014 and have traded under this name ever since.

From age eight, James was driving 14ft boats up the river. “Dad had a very relaxed attitude to parenting.”

Although expected to join the family firm, James initially wanted to follow his own career path. “I studied naval architecture at Southampton University and joined Lloyd’s Registry calculating the stresses/ strains on insured vessels.

I soon realised this was not for me and with dad desperate for help with his growing boat yard – which he’d relocated to Pagelsham - I joined the business.”

Younger brother Nick also joined the firm and both increased boat sales from around six to 30 a month. “We bought up boats dad said wouldn’t sell, including old boats and part-exchanges.”

Forward thinker A ‘deal with dad’ enabling them both to take 50% of the sales’ earnings was a clear incentive.

James describes himself as the salesman and Nick as the strategic forward thinker. “It was Nick’s idea to move premises in 2005 to Wallasea Island and scaleup to a 350-berth marina with more space and bigger lifting equipment.” At the height of the boating boom, the Barke family employed around 40 staff and sold 99 boats in a month. Nick remains gutted they didn’t reach 100.

The brothers also secured dealership

8 The Barke family, from left to right: James, David, David junior, Nick and Guy Boats.co.uk

agreements with Arvor and Fairline and moved into chartering, having first chartered a Targar 47, then upgraded to a Princess 72 and 88, and latterly an Oyster 825. They have retained their most recent three charter boats.

“The Oyster is the famous Polina Star III that lost its keel and sank in 2015. The insurers asked us to store it and we decided to rebuild it

Leading Their ‘hands on’ approach and desire to ‘live and breathe everything boats’ has turned the company into one of the UK’s leading boats sales and repair businesses, selling around 600 boats a year that range in size from 14ft speed boats to 85ft motor yachts.

The firm is also an authorised dealer for Princess, Williams Jet Tenders, Parker Sport leisure and fishing boats, Seabob, Kawasaki personal watercraft and Sea Ray. David senior, although semi-retired, works in the business five days-a-week and with 20 employees, all agree things are ticking along nicely.

James is keen to share the company philosophy, which is to have fun, try to make a living and keep customers happy. “And in that order”, he says, “while keeping an eye on the cash-flow.”

Outside of work, James enjoys his 500-year-old farm in Essex: “Digging holes, cutting hedges and playing with my tractor.”

In addition to boats and circumnavigating Majorca with his wife and three children, motorbikes are another passion.

Commenting on his achievements, James concludes: “We’re here to get as many people boating as possible and to continue selling entry-level cheaper boats.” An ethos Henry Ford, the man who made transport accessible to all, would agree with.

8 James Barke wants to get as many people boating as possible

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

PEOPLE: MOVEMENTS

Simon Roberts BAR Technologies (BAR)

Bob Sims Aquafax

Troy Penfold Dromeas Yachts

Marine engineering consultancy BAR Technologies (BAR), has appointed Simon Roberts, former Williams Racing MD and team principal, as chief operating officer.

He will work alongside the BAR senior leadership team of chief executive, John Cooper, chief technical officer, Simon Schofield and head of engineering, Lauren Eatwell. Simon began his career with engine manufacturer Perkins where he spent ten years working in engineering design, performance development and manufacturing.

At BAR, Simon will work to take BAR's WindWings wing sail technology through its manufacturing partnerships to the global shipping market. He will also support across BAR's new technology offerings in its other sectors - commercial workboat operations, leisure marine and special projects.

Gavin Wesson Cox Marine

Aquafax has appointed Bob Sims to the role of technical support to the distributor's trade partners.

Bob will focus on the electronics portfolio consisting of Navico's brands of B&G, Lowrance and C-Map. Bob joins Aquafax having previously worked at Raymarine where he was responsible for providing technical support to subsidiary sales offices, international distributors, retailers, and service dealers.

In recent years, Bob has focused on full system support for UK OEMs specialising in autopilot installations.

“We have made significant investment in personnel over the course of 2021, ensuring we have the right team to support our broad portfolio and diverse customer base,” said Harry Heasman, Aquafax head of sales.

“Electronics is a new product category for Aquafax and following our appointment as UK distributor for B&G, Lowrance and C-Map, it was important we had the right team onboard. Bob was our first choice to lead and grow the electronics technical team and we are pleased to have him join the business.”

Troy Penfold has joined Dromeas Yachts in the position of production director.

Troy's career in the marine industry spans more than 26 years, including with Princess Yachts to Sunseeker.

“Troy, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Dromeas Yachts, we are looking forward to him helping us grow the Dromeas Yachts brand further and enhance our already full order book,” said CEO Efe Kuyumcu.

Troy added: “Dromeas Yachts are starting to make serious waves in the marine industry worldwide, with new dealers in various locations from Australia through to Europe, I am very excited to help take Dromeas Yachts to the next level.”

Daniel Bailey Seas of Solutions

Justine Brain

DC Battery Technologies

For the latest news and analysis go to www.boatingbusiness.com/news101

Diesel outboard engine manufacturer, Cox Marine, has appointed Gavin Wesson to the newly created role of chief operating officer.

Gavin has more than 20 years of experience in manufacturing and engineering operations, supply chain and overall business leadership and joins Cox Marine from GKN Aerospace.

He will be responsible for production, manufacturing, engineering, purchasing and logistics at Cox Marine.

“Cox Powertrain is making good progress and we will be working closely together to enhance further our processes in order to deliver on our long-term strategy,” said Tim Routsis, CEO of Cox Powertrain.

Gavin added: “Cox is an exciting young business with big ambitions and exceptionally well placed for significant growth. I'm looking forward to being a part of the Cox success story.”

Seas of Solutions has appointed Daniel Bailey as UK and Ireland sales manager, responsible for supporting the company's McMurdo, Kannad Marine and Netwave brand product portfolio.

Daniel joins Seas of Solutions following nine years with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, having worked on the UK Mission Control Centre which processes COSPAS-SARSAT beacons, and also working as a search and rescue mission co-ordinator, gaining knowledge of GMDSS products and their application.

“As a leading supplier of innovative distress beacons, SOLAS GMDSS safety equipment and VDR solutions, Seas of Solutions are delighted that our customers will have access to Daniels's wealth of knowledge, as his experience has put him at the forefront of understanding the latest maritime safety products,” said Sean McCrystal, UK site manager.

Battery distributor, DC Battery Technologies, has appointed Justine Brain as a regional sales director.

Justine joins DC Battery Technologies from Leoch Battery UK and will be responsible for focusing sales of the company's lithium and lead acid ranges to sectors including marine, motorhomes and caravans, and vehicle conversions.

Prior to Leoch Battery UK, Justine worked in technical sales for DBS Leoch and DBS Energy.

She said: “I'm delighted to join DC Battery Technologies as the company builds its reputation as one of the key new players in the UK leisure and industrial battery marketplace.

“We have a fantastic product portfolio in the business with some groundbreaking products sourced from respected manufacturers including Trojan.”

OCTOBER 2021 | 25

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