Motorboat Owner November 2020

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Motorboat NOVEMBER 2020

Owner Affordable practical boating

BOAT TEST

Robalo R272 PRACTICAL Fairline Phantom 38/41 l Keyhaven l Blu Thru Engine Rinsing Kit

Boat-sharing Clubs

Welcome to the November issue.

From the Editor

contact us

Motorboat Owner Digital Marine Media Ltd Suite 6 Philpot House, Station Road, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7HH t: 01268 922991

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

It’s happened again. The second wave is here and we are being confined to quarters for at least a month (well those of us in England are anyway). I suppose it was inevitable, but at least this time we are not missing out on the best part of the season. Once the clocks go back boating becomes a bit more sporadic for many of us, while others call it a day and take their boats out for the winter. I know many

Editor, Neale Byart 01268 922992 neale@motorboatowner.co.uk Associate Editor, Claire Frew 01268 922993 claire@motorboatowner.co.uk

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November 2020

welcome aboard

©RichardStead/SouthamptonWaters

Aerial view of Solent anchorage, Keyhaven, as featured on pages 50-61

of us will not be seeing them for the next few weeks, but when we are allowed back to our marinas, harbours and boat clubs it may well be just in time to start thinking about winterising. We have attached a few features to the end of this issue to help those for whom this may be the first winter of boat ownership, we know there are plenty of new boaters amongst us due, in no small part, to the restriction on

travel we have already experienced this year. Every cloud has a silver lining as they say. These features also act as an aide mémoir for those that already have a few winters under their keel, and provide easy to follow steps to ensure that your boat makes it through the winter in fine fettle and ready to go when the weather finally breaks again in the spring and when restrictions on our movement will, hopefully, no longer be needed.

Talking of new boaters, this month I have been researching a reasonably new phenomenon that is perfect for getting new people into boating, and equally a great way of continuing boating when, perhaps, owning your own boat is getting a bit too much.

Boat sharing clubs offer subscription boating with fixed monthly costs and zero hassle. They won’t be for everyone, of course, but for some it may offer a way of going boating when outright ownership is simply not possible. Wherever you are, I hope you come out of your specific restrictions safe, well and eager to go boating again as soon as possible.

Sub Editor, Pam Born Production Editor, John Frew

Subscriptions: 01268 922991 subscriptions@motorboatowner.co.uk

Advertising: 01268 922994 Brokerage, classified & display Advertising Manager, John Steward advertising@motorboatowner.co.uk

Contributors: Simon Everett, Steve Wood, Kat Young, Richard Stead Cover photo: Robalo R272 on test off

Netley in Hampshire by Claire Frew Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2020

REGULARS NEWS page 6 INBOX page 18 CUTTING EDGE page 32 Q&A page 46 TESTED page 70 page 62 Small Boat adventures

4m Avon Searider RTI

p20

page 70 Tested

Blu Thru rinsing kit

PRACTICAL

Essential Guide to Boat-sharing Clubs

page 74 Hooked

Pike fishing

page 78 Project Boat

Fairline Vixen

Appendix Practical

Winterising guide

p50

p62

KEYHAVEN Destination Guide

p82

p34

Fairline Phantom 38/41 CLASSIC CRUISER GUIDE

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

BOAT TEST

Robalo R272

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NEWS Teignmouth boatyard redevelopment Teignmouth Maritime Properties Ltd has unveiled plans for a multi-million-pound regeneration of the Riverside Boatyard in Teignmouth, Devon. Plans see the existing estuary-side boatyard, which lies on the edge of the town, in Bishopsteignton Road, converted into a ‘mixed-use development’ combining housing, holiday accommodation, industrial units and offices, while improving the existing boat storage and repair facilities. Unveiling the first 3D animation and artistic impressions by MJS Design and Planning, Peter Stenner, CEO of Teignmouth Maritime Properties, said “This is an opportunity to comprehensively redevelop a prominent waterside site into a high-quality maritime facility, which I firmly believe Teignmouth deserves.” With features such as beach huts and workshops, developers are also hoping to attract greater numbers of new boat and water-based leisure users to the area, generating economic benefits for the town. Mr Stenner, who is also founder of Teignmouth Maritime Services Ltd, added “For many years I have been an existing user of the boatyard which now is in desperate need for development. I am both delighted and proud to be able to share these plans to transform this area of Teignmouth into something special, which I hope many others will benefit from for years to come. These plans will be a great asset to the town for locals, visitors and businesses alike.” MJS Design and Planning’s MD, Matt Slader, said that the project “should provide water users with substantial improvement for easy, enhanced and safer facilities for the launching and recovery of vessels in a range of tidal and weather conditions, with two slipways available to locals and visitors enabling a range of water based activities.” There is also a proposal for a new cycle path linking Teignmouth Docks to the Riverside Boatyard site.

Designs detail a new slipway, and multi-storey residential and commercial properties 6

November 2020

If you any have news from your region, please email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Poole Harbour Boat Show 2021 cancelled The 2021 Poole Harbour Boat Show has been cancelled due to the ongoing uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic. After cancelling the 2020 show, due to take place in June, the event organisers Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC) have confirmed that the show will not go ahead in 2021 either, but that they hope to see it return in 2022. Jim Stewart, CEO of PHC “The Boat Show has been a huge success over the past five years and the decision to cancel for 2021 has not been taken lightly. However, pressure on business resources across the marine industry and beyond is high, making planning for the future very difficult. At this uncertain time, it is prudent that as a business we focus on our key Harbour and Port roles and responsibilities. This is not the end of the Poole Harbour Boat Show, it will return once again.” The free-entry event is claimed to attract over 32,000 visitors each year.

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NEWS Le Boat charter bookings up 133% for 2021 Describing the year as ‘exceptionally challenging’, bookings through boating holiday provider, Le Boat, soured in 2020 since a return to the waters in July. Le Boat operates what is thought to be the ‘world’s largest fleet’, with over 900 self-drive boats across the inland waterways of Europe and Canada. Launching its 2021 brochure with an early booking incentive of 15% off, the charter company has already reported a 133% increase year on year for travel in 2021. As a result, it has announced more investment in its craft and facilities and the opening of a new marina at Stavoren, in the Netherlands, ahead of the new season. It also intends to increase the number of craft available in England and Scotland for the 2021 season due to demand at cruising destinations such as the Thames and Caledonian Canal, adding that regions such as the Netherlands and Belgium are also likely to see a spike in bookings from UK travellers travelling by ferry and road in 2021. Managing Director of Le Boat, Cheryl Brown, said “There is no doubt that 2020 has given us a lesson in what’s truly important. Spending time with family and friends, enjoying the great outdoors and exploring new places were things we sometimes took for granted, but now we all appreciate them that little bit more. Our boating holidays are all about these simple, but cherished moments. They are the ideal getaway in a world where we are even more conscious about personal space and escaping the crowds. Our boats offer the perfect sanctuary and a welcome opportunity to spend quality time together and all of our cruising routes allow our customers to steer clear of busy tourist hot-spots, appreciate the great outdoors and explore destinations from a more authentic perspective. I am thrilled with our new brochure and look forward to welcoming guests back onboard in 2021”.

Detailing Le Boat’s 17 cruising regions, customers can request or download 2021 brochure via the website 8

November 2020

NEWS Corsiva 650T NEW BOAT The Dutch-dayboat-inspired Polish boat builder, Corsiva, has added a new open boat Tender model to its affordable dayboat range. Combining classic and modern lines, the 650 Tender, is designed for inland and coastal use and will take up to a 90hp outboard engine, which is stylishly concealed beneath a lifting transom-sunpad hatch. Its deck provides a walkaround slimline central helm binnacle, a large rear sunpad and seating space for up to 7 people. UK dealer, Val Wyatt Marine, is to receive a new 650 Tender in early 2021, priced at £20,995 without an engine.

Brexit discussions with HM Revenue & Customs The RYA and British Marine are ‘jointly persevering’ in asking the Government to increase the one-year Returned Goods Relief (RGR) extension period and supply further detail for recreational boaters and the leisure marine industry as the end of transitional period approaches. The marine bodies are concerned about the post-Brexit VAT and Customs arrangements, which will ‘affect thousands of boat owners resident in the UK who keep their boats in EU27 countries’, but assure boaters based in the UK that they still will be able visit the EU for short stays of up to 18 months. You can read the full release here.

DIARY DATES Boot Düsseldorf 23rd-31st January 2021 Southampton International Boat Show 10th-19th September 2021 Click any of the above for more info

0800 310 2100

Marine Electronics in stock for immediate dispatch.

Chargers - Inverters - Galvanic Isolators - Fuses Fuse holders - Crossover switches - Cable Sets - Batteries

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sales@mdsbattery.co.uk

November 2020

If you any have news from your region, please email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Hamble Cranchi dealer TBS Boats announced in October that it is now representing Cranchi at its south coast office on the River Hamble. Founded in 1870, the 150-year-old Italian boatbuilder produces a range of models 24ft-78ft, including day cruisers, sportscruisers, hardtops, flybridge yachts and trawlers. TBS currently has two Cranchi models in stock at its Hamble office at Mercury Marina, an E26 Rider pictured left, and a T43 Trawler pictured right. TBS is also now a dealer for KrĂźger, a Polish range of dayboats. Details and specs at www.tbsboats.com.

Classic boat brokerage service Classic Yacht Brokerage, and Birdham Pool-based brokers, RBS Marine, have joined forces to provide services in selling classic boats in the Chichester area. It will cover Chichester Marina, Dell Quay Boat Yard, Emsworth Yacht Harbour and Birdham Pool, where there is a resident wooden boat repair specialist, Tim Gilmore.

Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEWS Marina of the Year 2020 winners The winners of the 2020 Towergate Marina of the Year Awards were announced in October, and it saw Poole Quay Boat Haven pictured top, crowned category winner for coastal marina with under 250 berths.

The runner up in this category was Whitehills Marina in Scotland. The coastal marina of the year award, with over 250 berths, was collected

by Boatfolk’s Royal Quays Marina on the River Tyne near Newcastle, pictured bottom, for a second year in a row, closely followed by runner up, Plymouth Yacht Haven. The inland marina of the year catergory was won by the River Nene-based White Mills Marina, with Overwater Marina in Cheshire named as the runner up. The two categories International and Superyacht marina of the year were won by Turkey’s Yalikavak Marina and IGY Yacht Haven Grande, in the US Virgin Islands, respectively. New category, Marina Employee of the Year, was won by James Stenning at Emsworth Marina. Matt Simms of Royal Quays Marina said “I am very proud that the marina team at Royal Quays has set such a high standard of service that our berth holders and guests have acknowledged their level of dedication by voting for us in the awards as the best, for the second year running. The team at Royal Quays works with passion to provide a second home for our yachts and guests, and this recognition validates our efforts. We would like to thank everyone who voted for us.” Kerrie Gray, Marina Manager, Poole Quay Boat Haven said “I am extremely proud that Poole Quay Boat Haven has won the award for the second year running. This year’s accolade is particularly poignant as it has been a difficult year for all. Receiving this award is testament to the hard work and dedication that the entire marina team has shown.” Director of White Mills Marina, Debbie Mills, said “We are so thrilled and of course incredibly proud to have been announced Inland Marina of the Year. Ever since we opened for business in 2016 our goal has been to become an award-winning marina, and we have done it” A video of the virtual award ceremony is available via YouTube.

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November 2020

If you any have news from your region, please email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Rodman 1290 Evolution NEW BOAT The Spanish boat builder, Rodman, has completed the ‘virtual launch’ of its new flybridge-fisher model, the 1290 Evolution. The 1290 Evolution is the ‘long-awaited upgrade’ of the popular 1250 model, sharing the respected hull, but offering a new superstructure, interior layout and features, including new hull windows and triple sliding access doors.

Sea trials on this first production boat, fitted with twin Volvo IPS600s, 440hp engines achieve a maximum speed of 36 knots, and a cruising speed of 22 knots at 2500rpm giving around 75 litres per hour fuel consumption. The new model is available in two guises through UK dealer, RBS Marine, priced from £416,400 for the hardtop, and from £423,600 for the flybridge version.

Global Nautical ID plate for boats

Company, Nautical ID, wants to make it easier to identify and contact a boat owner in the event of an emergency, problem or damage. Endorsed by marine insurer Pantaenius, the system requires an all-weather display plate featuring a QR code that can be read on a smartphone. Fellow boat owners or passersby who see any problem can alert owners by scanning the boat’s unique QR code, which generates an instant SMS message, enabling the owner to take swift and appropriate action. Membership is £99 per year.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEWS Brightlingsea Heritage Quay and Pier ©BrightlingseaHarbourCommisioners

The town council and harbour commissioners at the Essex haven of Brightlingsea are looking to create a maritime-heritage-inspired focal point on its waterfront. A public consultation has launched revealing proposals for a new Heritage Quay and Pier. Designs show a spacious canopy-covered Heritage Quay area that has been designed to provide ‘a tasteful room-to-move arena for a multitude of everyday and special community events’, with a new Heritage Pier extending out into the harbour providing berths for three or more traditional, bygone east coast barges that once traded here. The project will make use of a concrete grid World War II, which was recently rediscovered and will be fully excavated. Both town bodies admit that the proposed site, on the eastern side of the Hard, has become somewhat neglected since the end of WW2 and added that the new quay and pier will in no way impede other activities within the harbour, or the other area of the Hard. Plans can be viewed via the council website.

Bavaria Vida 33 NEW BOAT The German boat builder, Bavaria unveiled its first outboard-powered model last month. Available as a stylish hardtop or open sportscruiser, the Vida 33 offers a spacious cockpit, a hydraulic-lifting bathing platform and a two-berth cabin with a separate toilet compartment. The express-styled cruiser has two bow deck layouts, with a large sunpad or an adaptable sunken dinette area available.

Power is provided by twin Mercury outboards 150-300hp. The Vida 33 has been nominated in the ‘Best for Fun’ category in the 2020 Best of Boats Awards. It is available through UK dealer, Clipper Marine, priced from £149,454.

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November 2020

If you any have news from your region, please email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Haslar Marina POO (Pump Out Objective) Boatfolk’s Haslar Marina is encouraging its berth holders to be a little greener by launching a mobile black water pump out ‘POO boat’. The marina group say that one flush from an un-treated toilet has 250,000 times more bacteria than a flush that has been through the sewage treatment process and, in offering a ‘hassle-free’ blackwater pump out service, it hopes to make a difference with its collective efforts to decrease pollution caused by leisure boats. Berth holders book in with the marina office, make a voluntary £5 donation to environmental causes, and the team will visit with the ‘POO boat’ to empty their holding tank during the following week. Managing Director of Boatfolk, Michael Prideaux, said “We take our environmental responsibilities very seriously. We want to do all we can to educate and engage with our customers, to dissuade boats pumping untreated blackwater into the marine environment. We recognise there is a lack of facilities at UK marinas currently and we are passionate about leading the way.” The service coincides with the new #LoveYourHarbour campaign, designed to raise awareness of discharging untreated sewage from a boat in a harbour. A video detailing the campaign is available on YouTube.

CO deaths prompt renewed safety warnings

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

©MAIB

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has renewed its warnings of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning, after publishing its report of two fatalities aboard a motorboat in York. Moored on the River Ouse in York, the two occupants of Diversion, its owner and a friend, died as result of carbon monoxide poisoning from a second-hand diesel-fuelled cabin heater installed in 2018. The MAIB found that the exhaust silencer fitted was not approved for marine use, saying it was not gas tight and its connection to the exhaust pipework was loose, therefore it was venting into the cabin. The boat did not have a CO alarm, which from 2019, was made a mandatory requirement of the inland assessment, Boat Safety Scheme.

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NEWS 2020 Best of Boats Awards shortlist announced The Best of Boats Awards, known in the industry as the BOB awards, has announced its 2020 shortlist of finalists.

Shortlisted boats are divided into categories ‘Best for’ fun, beginners, fishing, family and travel, this year the 21 shortlisted boats have been whittled down from numerous boats tested by the 18 international jury members over the last 12 months. The jury is made up of boating journalists from Europe and beyond, with Motorboat Owner’s Neale Byart representing the UK. With the cancellation of award partner event, Boot & Fun Berlin, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the BOB winners will be announced during a live streamed broadcast event on Thursday 19th November.

The Saxdor 200 Sport has been nominated in the ‘Best for Beginners’ category, as tested in the July 20 issue

AWARDS NOMINEES Best for Beginners ASTender 340 ROM 28 Saxdor 200 Sport Best for Fishing Bayliner Trophy 22 CC Quicksilver 805 Pilothouse Best for Family Alfastreet 28 Cabin Beneteau Antares 11 Fly Idea 80 Nuva M8 Prestige 420 Fly Ranieri Next 285 LX

Best for Fun Axopar 37 / Brabus Shadow 900 Bavaria Vida 33 Frauscher 1212 Ghost Jeanneau Cap Camarat 12.5 Nimbus T8 Sea Ray SLX 400 Best for Travel Absolute Navetta 64 Beneteau Monte Carlo 52 Sunreef 80 Power Super Lauwersmeer 47 OC

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November 2020

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INBOX

@

Real boaters - real stories

I stumbled upon an edition of your online magazine and must say it is by far the best information provider I have ever seen. Most motor boat enthusiasts are everyday people who have scrimped and saved for their boat, not at all the ‘jetset image’ often portrayed and even encouraged in certain other publications. Readers are looking for practical advice, real boat tests warts and all with owners comments. New ideas and products for our pride and joy are always welcome reading.

I have enjoyed restoring smaller classic motorboats over many years and am at present working on a Corvette 32, like the one featured in the last issue. This is a fine ‘modern’ vessel compared to previous projects and due to lockdown I have had time to do some renovations. This included replacing the two upper decks and bathing platform with synthetic teak as the original teak-faced ply was well past its best. This proved an entertaining and lengthy project! As I’m often single handed I find close quarters manoeuvering, for example in a marina, spoiling my enjoyment so have also been installing the Holland Marine jet thruster system. This was an even more entertaining and lengthy process especially as an after fit. I should add that I am by no means an expert on restoration work but see it as a rewarding hobby, which with a bit of luck will give our heritage vessels a new lease of life. Melvyn Bond Editor comments: Thank you for getting in touch and best of luck with the Corvette 32, that’s quite a project. I would love to see some pictures of your jet thruster install, and I’m sure I’m not alone in that. It sounds like a particularly fascinating part of what appears to be a very interesting overhaul.

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November 2020

email:

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

BACK

IN

TIME

It is 1991 and here are two different motorboat styles from US builder, Carver. The new 26 Command Bridge and 528 Montego

Keyhaven Thanks for a great magazine. I saw that you are featuring Keyhaven next month and wondered if the photo I took there last Saturday would be useful or for your photo page. I thought it was a great pic since it was the end of September. I have a motor cruiser berthed in Lymington Yacht Haven and I frequently cycle through on route from Lymington to Milford on sea. Dave Hooper Editor comments: Thank you for sending in this beautiful photo. Claireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide is in this issue and I know she struggled to choose photos, as it is so picturesque.

Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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PRACTICAL

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

Boat Clubs

We take a look at boat-sharing clubs as a different way of getting on the water

hey say that boat ownership is changing. Fewer people, especially in the younger age groups, are buying boats and taking up boating as their main pastime. The young, it is said, don’t want to commit to one adventure.

They want lots of different types of enjoyment, and boat ownership can get in the way of that. I don’t know how true that is, but one thing is certain, buying a boat is a significant outlay, and one that few can justify when they have mortgages to pay and children to bring up. There is also the little matter of your large investment spending more time lying idle than being

used. General aviation got around this problem long ago by forming syndicates or by joining a club and paying for regular access to an aircraft rather than owning one outright and having all the expense that goes with it. On the syndicate side, boating hasn’t been far behind, with lots of boats, especially those based overseas, being owned by a small group of people, each with an equal share of use and, most importantly a fractional cost of purchase and running costs. That goes some way to alleviating the barriers to boat ownership, but what if you want your ownership even more flexible. What if you don’t want any purchase or maintenance costs at all, and just want regular access to a

T

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November 2020

Lymington Boat Club

“Does boating get any easier or hassle free than this?”

boat or boats without any large initial financial commitment, and the ability to get out should you decide to take up mountaineering?

It has probably only been in the last 10 years or so that this kind of boat use has become available, but as each year lapses we see more and more companies offering to cater for those that want all the fun of boating, with few, if any, of the hassles that come with owning your own boat.

These organisations come under various names and guises, but operate under similar parameters. The basic premise is that you pay a monthly fee that gives you access to a boat, or fleet of boats, that you

can book and use as you wish. Of course, there are variations in the rules in the way each scheme runs, but on the whole, you can spend a fixed amount every month, go boating possibly as often as you could ever want, and have no worries about servicing, maintenance, depreciation, mooring fees etc. All you do is pay for fuel and enjoy. You may not even have to clean it when you come back in. Does boating get any easier or hassle free than this?

We spent a day with one such organisation, Lymington Boat Club, to find out more about how it works and experience for ourselves the simplicity of this kind of boating.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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How does it work?

Lymington Boat Club, which is part of the Yacht Havens group, launched in 2018.

Initially they started with three boats, a Jeanneau Merry Fisher 695, a Gemini 650 RIB and an Axopar 28 T-Top. In the second year they added a Scorpion 875 RIB to allow for parties of eight, and after discussion with existing members as to how to extend the fleet for 2020, added a second Axopar 28 T-Top with a different configuration to also allow for up to eight crew. As you will see from some of the other organisations listed later on in this feature, many of them offer different membership levels, at different prices, which allow access to different boats within the fleet, different days of the week or even different amounts of days over the month or year. Lymington Boat Club have kept it simple and have a single level of membership that provides unlimited access to all five boats.

Another variation you will find among the different clubs is how they operate

their booking system. Again, Lymington Boat Club have opted for a very simple system whereby each member can only book two sessions in advance, As soon as one of those sessions is used, you are free to book another and so on. This means that all members have equal opportunities of accessing all of the boats. A session in this sense is defined as a half day, with sessions starting at 08:30 in the morning and going through until 6pm. No boating during darkness is allowed, although with prior permission your sessions can include an overnight if you book the afternoon of one day followed by the morning of the next, as long as the boat is in a marina overnight. There is a half hour slot between sessions to allow the boats to be cleaned and refuelled in readiness for the next member. Bookings starting before 08:30, or going on later than 18:00, can be arranged at the discretion of the boat club.

In reality, with the number of boats and number of members, it appears that your use is pretty much unlimited, as long as you are happy to use

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September 2018

different boats, as there is usually something available. Bookings are made online, so you can pretty much book your next session as you are coming back in from your last one.

As well as your two pre-booked sessions, each member gets a single ‘golden ticket’ per annum. This allows for a full day prebooking of any of the fleet boats, as far in advance as you wish, which is a useful feature for a special occasion or such like. There may also be opportunities to book a boat out ‘on-the-day’ if it is not pre-booked, even if you already have two pre-booked sessions allocated. It all feels very friendly and flexible, which is a benefit from having relatively few members. Currently membership at Lymington Boat Club stands at 25 and they inform us that each boat will only have a maximum of 6 members at this time. That means that as the membership grows towards 30, they will look at the possibility of adding a further boat to the fleet.

New members have to be a minimum age of 25. Those with no previous boating experience will get an RYA Powerboat Level 2 course included with their fees, and each new member receives a full induction on each boat, the content of which will depend upon the experience that they have.

Where can the boats be used? Lymington Boat

Club is a Solent based club, giving members a huge array of harbours, marinas and anchorages to visit.

Trips outside of the Solent may be possible with prior agreement.

What happens if the boat breaks down?

All servicing and maintenance tasks are carried out by the Boat Club, and every boat is checked over before and after each use, but in the event of a breakdown the boats come with a Sea Start membership, or one of the Boat Club staff can attend in their own support boat.

What about damage and insurance? All boats are fully covered by insurance, but each member is required to pay a damage deposit of £500.

Can the boats be used for fishing or watersports? Fishing

can be a messy business so, understandably, only the Merry Fisher is available for fishing. The boat is ideally suited too, with rod holders and full walkaround decks. Watersports are allowed from the other boats.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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PRACTICAL

Conclusion When you consider

What equipment do the boats have?

All boats are MCA coded, which means that they carry a full complement of safety equipment, including a liferaft. Adult lifejackets are also supplied, although you can use your own, and all boats have full electronics including AIS. You can also book paddleboards and ringos to take out with you for free.

So what do I need to bring? Very little actually.

Some food and drink, appropriate clothing, fishing rods, kids lifejackets and maybe sun cream and sunglasses if you are lucky.

What does it cost?

The big question, and the figure is surprisingly affordable. A membership of Lymington yacht club is £8,000 a year. If you would like an additional helmsperson on your membership, he or she can be added for an extra £1,000 per annum.

how much an annual berth in the Solent would be, (circa £7k for a 28 foot boat in Lymington) add to that insurance, engine servicing, general maintenance, Sea Start membership and of course the big one, depreciation, the £8,000 per year fee is definitely a bargain. Then just imagine not having to find, or tie up, a large capital sum, or commit to long term loan repayments, never having to think about maintenance, the price of a tin of antifoul or when the anodes were last changed, and suddenly this type of ownership really does start to make sense. OK, it’s not going to be for everyone.

Those that like to go off cruising great distances and staying aboard for weekends, or even weeks, may not find that sort of boating here, but for day boaters, fisherman and watersports enthusiasts it is hard to see any real downside. With safety equipment and even ringos and paddleboards thrown in, there really is no other cost other than fuel, and even that comes with a 5% berth holder discount. If you decide boating is not for you, or you want to take a break and try something else, there is no boat to sell, no broker’s commission to pay and no tyre kickers to deal with. You just walk away at the end of your year. Picking it up again after a break would, of course, be just as easy. In the modern, no-commitment world where boating may just be one of many experiences to enjoy, a boat club may just be the perfect way to do it.

Find out more: www.yachthavens.com/lymington/lymington-boat-club/

OTHER ORGANISATIONS WITH SIMILAR SCHEMES

Plymouth Boat Club BASE: Plymouth Yacht Haven COST PER ANNUM: from £1,995 NUMBER OF BOATS: 1 BOAT MAKES/MODELS: Beneteau Barracuda 7 Notes: This one-boat club is ideally set up for fisherman, although you don’t need to fish to be a member. There are two levels of membership, a six month summer membership (April to September) or a full annual, the latter costing £2,395. Both memberships provide two days per month, with additional days available for £100, if required. www.yachthavens.com/yacht-haven-quay-plymouth/plymouth-boat-club/

British Boat Club BASE: Hamble, Hayling Island & Hythe COST PER ANNUM: from £3,000 NUMBER OF BOATS: 5 BOAT MAKES/MODELS: Parker 750C, Brig Eagle 6.7 RIB, 2 x Quicksilver 675PH & Quicksilver 555PH Notes: There are three different levels of membership to the British Boat Club. ‘Fleet’ gives you unlimited access to all five motorboats, plus one sailing yacht, by simply booking your chosen vessel on the app, turning up to collect the keys and go boating. This is available for £450 per month (£5,400 per year) with no joining fee. For those with more fishing orientated plans, British Boat Club also offer a more affordable plan called ‘Gone Fishing’. This costs just £250 per month (£3000 per year) and gives members unlimited access to the three Quicksilver boats in the fleet, one each of which is kept at each of their three bases, providing quicker and easier access to different fishing grounds. Both types of memberships come with a minimum 12-month term and British Boat Club insure the boats, provide all the necessary safety and navigational equipment and deal with all maintenance and servicing, leaving you to just enjoy your time on the water. At the end of your day, just refuel, hose the boat off and walk away. The club also offer a very flexible ‘Pay as you boat’ membership level.

This scheme comes with a £30 per month fee and allows unlimited daily bookings with a rate ranging from £150 to £300 per day, depending upon the boat booked. This scheme would be an ideal way to test the water, if you are not quite sure how often you might make use of the boats available. www.britishboatclub.com Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

25

PRACTICAL

OTHER ORGANISATIONS WITH SIMILAR SCHEMES

Henley Boat Club BASE: Henley, non-tidal Thames COST PER ANNUM: from £1,275 NUMBER OF BOATS: 6 BOAT MAKES/MODELS: Edwardian Frolic 31, Bullitt Tender, Antares 570, Alfastreet Open 23, Antares Connery 25, Linssen 35 SL AC Notes: The only dedicated inland waterways club that we are aware of, this Thames based operation is run by Hobbs of Henley and offers six different boats; five open day cruisers and a single motor cruiser. There are 12 choices of membership that includes five levels of ‘Club’ membership, five levels of ‘Bond’ membership and two ‘Club Infinity’ options. Different membership options provide access to different boats, with each one, bar the Club Infinity options, delivering a certain number of days per year. For example the entry level ‘Bronze Club’ provides four days a year on four different day boats for £1,275. The higher levels of membership bring with them up to seven days use of the whole range of day boats, plus access to the Linssen motor cruiser. These levels of membership, Diamond and Platinum, Club and Bond, include either three-day or one week breaks onboard. They also offer, as do the Gold and Silver levels, ‘special days’ such as Henley Regatta or overnight festival trips. The two Club Infinity levels of membership, starting at £5,300, offer unlimited access to the day boats, with Club Infinity Plus also including a day at Henley Regatta. Unlike the coastal schemes, this one includes your fuel across all membership levels, as well as the usual items such as insurance, breakdown cover, safety equipment and boat cleaning. Membership even brings with it special offers at local Henley restaurants such as The Boathouse Restaurant, The Angel on the Bridge, The Little Angel and The Anchor. www.hobbsofhenley.com/henley-boat-club

Henley Boat Club’s new 2020 addition, a new Linssen SL Series 35 AC called ‘Knight’s Dream’ 26

November 2020

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU IN 2020 MARINAS

•

BOATYARDS

•

DRY STACK

•

BOAT CLUBS

Welcome aboard the Yacht Havens family!

We’ll help you get the best from your boating experience, whether you’re passing through or looking for a longer stay.

Come boating with Yacht Havens at one of our 9 destinations 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Largs Yacht Haven Troon Yacht Haven Neyland Yacht Haven Fambridge Yacht Haven Lymington Yacht Haven Haven Quay – Dry Stack, Lymington Plymouth Yacht Haven Yacht Haven Quay – Dry Stack, Plymouth Jachthaven Biesbosch, The Netherlands

YACHTHAVENS.COM

01590 677071

1 2

3

4 6

8 7

5

9

PRACTICAL

OTHER ORGANISATIONS WITH SIMILAR SCHEMES

Premier Agapi Boat Club BASE: Premier Marina Swanwick, Hamble COST PER ANNUM: from £4,185 NUMBER OF BOATS: 3 BOAT MAKES/MODELS: Ring 680 RIB, Agapi 800 Cabin RIB, Agapi 950 Cabin RIB Notes: Premier Marinas partnered with Agapi to form the Agapi Boat Club in the UK. There are also Agapi boat clubs in Helsinki, Stockholm, Gothenburg, Mallorca, Marbella and Crete. In the UK there are three levels of membership, with fees of up to £10,920 per year. Entry level membership (Bronze) gives access to one boat, the Ring 680 for unlimited trips during midweek. With this plan you can only have one booking at a time. Silver membership gives access to the Agapi 800 as well as the Ring, and brings with it weekend boating and the option for two bookings at a time and an extra named skipper. Gold membership provides access to all three boats and allows for up to three bookings. You can also have two extra named skippers. Gold members also get boat cleaning and fuelling services. The two Agapi boats both have accommodation, so Silver and Gold members can also book overnight trips. Two more boats, A Saxdor 320 and an electric propulsion Rand Mana 23, are planned to be added to the fleet soon. Freedom of choice features large with Agapi boat club, so if one of the three plans is not quite right, they will happily look at formulating a plan that works for you. This may include access to Agapi Boat Clubs boats at other bases across Europe. www.agapiboating.com

Urban Truant RIB Club BASE: Swanwick Marina, Hamble COST PER ANNUM: £175 NUMBER OF BOATS: 3 BOAT MAKES/MODELS: 3 x Highfield RIBS 5-6m Notes: This club operates a little differently from the others. The joining/annual membership fee is just £175, but you pay £150 for each day that you use one of the boats. A day starts at 09:00 and runs until 16:30. They also offer evening sessions (17:30 to 21:00) for £75. This fee structure may be beneficial to the very occasional user. www.utrib.club 28

November 2020

Discover a new way of enjoying the river ‘Kn i NE ghts D WF OR ream’ 202 0

Enjoy a fleet of luxury self drive launches when you want for a one off annual fee.

World premiere ‘Knights Dream’ joins our luxury boat fleet and the Henley Boat Club this year.

For incentivised, hassle free boating call us today.

Hobbs of Henley Station Road, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 1AZ 01491 572035 boats@hobbsofhenley.co.uk www.hobbsofhenley.com

PRACTICAL

OTHER ORGANISATIONS WITH SIMILAR SCHEMES

Boat Club Trafalgar BASE: Portsmouth Harbour COST PER ANNUM: from £3,648 NUMBER OF BOATS: 8 BOAT MAKES/MODELS: 4 x Ballistic RIBs from 5 to 7.8m, Finnmaster T7, S6 and Pilot 7, Merry Fisher 795 Marlin Notes: Five different levels of membership giving unlimited access to different boats, and even different days of the week. Top level membership gives access to all boats on any day and starts at £7,342. All membership options also offer a monthly payment scheme which ranges from £320 to £644 per month. www.boatclubtrafalgar.com

The Boat Club

BASE: Poole Harbour, Lymington, Beaulieu COST PER ANNUM: £4,740 NUMBER OF BOATS: 20 BOAT MAKES/MODELS: 3 x Axopar 28, Rhea 27, Invictus 240FX, Zodiac Medline 7.5, 2 x Ribeye RIBs 6m & 6.5, Barbaris 650, Antares 21, Capelli 20 Open, Selva D600 RIB, Karnic 2050, 6 x Jeanneau Cap Camarat 5.5m to 7.5m, Quicksilver 700 Notes: As well as the annual fee, paid at £395 per month, there is a one-off joining fee of £5,500. This gives unlimited access to all 20 motorboats, plus one sailing vessel. All but two of these are based at Sandbanks in Poole Harbour with one vessel each in the other two locations. www.theboatclub.com

Fairview Sailing Boat Club BASE: River Hamble COST PER ANNUM: £5,940 NUMBER OF BOATS: 2 BOAT MAKES/MODELS: Jeanneau MF795 & Zodiac 7m RIB Notes: This company also have over 30 yachts if you also like to sail, and Boat Club membership also gives you access to a fleet of boats in 60+ locations around the world via partner Dream Yacht Charter. Fairview Sailing operate on a points system with up to 40 days possible from your points allocation, depending upon timings and notice. www.fairviewsailing.co.uk/boat-club/

30

November 2020

OTHER ORGANISATIONS WITH SIMILAR SCHEMES

Pure Latitude Boat Club BASE: Hamble with boats also at Lymington and Windsor COST PER ANNUM: from £4,200 plus £995 joining fee NUMBER OF BOATS: 6 BOAT MAKES/MODELS: Ballistic RIB, Axopar 28C, Stevens 34, Jeanneau Prestige 36 & 2 x Beneteau Antares 30 Notes: A club with more cruising orientated boats and even one on the Inland waterways at Windsor. Pure Latitude uses a points system whereby you buy points to redeem against boat usage. Weekends use more points and points are spread across the seasons. For example, a Beneteau Antares 30 will cost you 30 points for one day midweek, or 45 points for one weekend day. The lowest level of membership buys you 300 points. An extra charge is made for engine hour usage. www.purelatitude.com

The British Boat Club is a unique boat club offering a fleet of boats from multiple bases on the South Coast Our club members simply reserve a boat via our App, turn up during their reservation, access the boat’s keys themselves, and go boating.

On your return, just refuel, hose the boat off, and leave the rest.

Tel: +44 (0) 2381 841765 Email - info@britishboatclub.com 6-7 Saltmakers House, Hamble Point Marina, School Lane Hamble-le-Rice, SO31 4NB

www.britishboatclub.com

CUTTING

the latest boating gear and technology

Suzuki

With the oceans full of micro plastics, any effort, no matter how small, to capture and reduce them has got to be commended.

Suzuki has developed the world’s first micro plastics collecting device for outboard motors. The engines suck up gallons of sea water to cool them, and this water is passed through a collector that traps any micro plastic particles on the way out. It does this without interfering with the operation of the engine’s cooling system, even if the collector becomes full. The device will become an option on Suzuki outboards from 2021, and standard at some point in the future. Price £TBA www.marine.suzuki.co.uk

Garmin

Garmin has introduced a new multi-band GPS antenna that is said to provide positioning accuracy to within 1 metre. The GPS 24xd uses both L1 and L5 frequencies, together with multi-constellation support of GPS, Galileo, GLONASS and BeiDou to deliver this pin point accuracy. It also uses builtin magnetic heading sensors to provide heading accuracy to within 3 degrees, which means a more stable chart, better radar overlay and optimum MARPA, even at slow speeds. Price £270 www.garmin.com

Dometic

Dometic has launched an electric power assist steering system that can be mounted to and integrated with all existing major outboard brands and steering systems. Designed to be used with outboards in the 90-200hp range, it integrates with existing SeaStar rack or rotary cable steering systems to deliver easy, smooth, power-assisted steering to boats that currently don’t have it. Once installed, the existing cable only operates the power assist unit, leaving the load of the engine to the electric steering actuator.

Price £TBA www.dometic.com

32

November 2020

UNLEASH YOUR PASSION FOR PERFORMANCE BOATING - AT A FRACTION OF THE COST OF BOAT OWNERSHIP.

FROM

£349 PER

MONTH

Built on the successful Agapi Boat Club model, our memberships offer a choice of plans to suit your boating aspirations. Plus, because we’re part of Premier Marinas you’ll enjoy our base at Swanwick on the Hamble and you’ll be free to explore the Solent, taking in trips and overnight stays at a selection of our prestigious marinas. And when you’re ready for an overseas adventure you can tap into the pleasures of the Agapi European club network.

TO FIND OUT MORE CALL: 01489 884 076 www.agapiboating.com

RAIN OR SHINE OUR HEATERS AND COVERS MAKE WINTER A BREEZE.

Robalo R272

34

November 2020

BOAT TEST

Length (LOA): 8.33m / 27ft 4in Beam: 2.9m / 9ft 6in Displacement: 3,175kg Fuel capacity: 681 litres Engine as tested: 2 x 250hp Yamaha Other engine options: Twins 400-500hp total RCD category: C10 Price from £143,950 Price as tested £164,495 Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

35

T

he world of centre console sportsfisher style boats is a very busy one. At one end of the spectrum there are some great little affordable models like Bayliner’s Element range, and the Dolfor 500. At the other, there are some truly spectacular boats with huge amounts of power and breathtaking performance. You could quite literally spend anything from about £20k up to £1m+ in this sector and you would probably be as happy a bunny as the next man, regardless of where your budget falls. Centre console boats are a bit

of a leveller. Yes some may be faster, some may have a bit more in the way of creature comforts, and of course some are much, much bigger, but in reality they all offer the same thing. A fast, easy to use boat that is as perfect for a spot of fishing with your friends as it is to take your family out for a days picnicking or watersports. In terms of versatility, they are,

36

November 2020

perhaps, the rigid boat equivalent of a RIB. With so many brands competing in this market, it won’t come as a surprise to find that you may not have heard of them all. Boston Whaler may be the ubiquitous name, but like Hoovers, Biros and JetSkis there is a whole world of other brands that do a similar thing. Robalo is probably one of those names that doesn’t roll off the tongue when thinking about centre console boats, but is it one that you should think about if you are in the market for this style of boat? We took to Southampton Water on a R272 to find out.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

“Quality and detail, this US-built Robalo just oozes it” The R272 is the 7th largest in a line-up of nine boats that Robalo place in their ‘Centre Console’ range. These start at just 16ft and go all the way up to 36ft. The company also offer a three boat ‘Explorer CC’ range from 20 to 24ft and four-model ‘Bay Boat’ range, also from 20 to 24ft.

37

Having never set foot on one of their boats, I was very keen to see what they offer. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not everyday that a new brand falls under our microscope.

Stepping onboard the 272 is easy, thanks to its twin bathing platform arrangement that wraps itself around the engine well.

There is also a useful slither of platform ahead of the engines to make moving across the platform easy. This access is even available when the engines are fully tilted, with just enough room to slip in front of them. The whole platform on our test boat was covered in soft non-slip decking, which continued on into the boat on every accessible bit of deck. This is a standard feature on UK boats, but fitted in the UK. This means that if you prefer a standard GRP non-slip deck, perhaps because you find it easier to hose away the evidence of your fishing trip, you do have the option of not having it. A bathing

ladder is fitted on the starboard side of the platform, neatly concealed beneath a lifting hatch cover. On each aft corner the platform is fitted with a cleat. These are the flush mounted kind that lift when required. While this is great to keep the bathing platform free of any toe stubbing surprises, you do have to remember to push them down when not in use.

Entry into the cockpit is via a transom door and a small step down, which creates extra depth, up to 90cm, and therefore safety for the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crew. Just behind the transom door is a locker containing all of the master electrics, nicely placed to allow you to fire it up when stepping onboard.

Across the transom there is a bench seat that easily folds up to provide more aft cockpit space for fishing or just moving about. On the port corner of the transom there is a bait well and on the transom coaming are a pair of dual purpose cup/

38

November 2020

rod holders. The whole transom seat assembly lifts on stainless steel gas struts to provide access to the boat’s batteries and other technical equipment. A hatch in the aft cockpit floor provides access to a deep and long self-draining locker that is ideal for ropes, fenders or watersports equipment.

In the port side of the aft cockpit there is a gunwale door. Here you have the option of a slot-in bathing ladder to provide a second easy way to get in and out of the water. The quality of build is quite obvious all around the boat, noticeable every time you open a hatch or move a seat, but it is perhaps most obvious at this side door, where the heavily built door closes against high quality seals to keep the water out and all the metal work from the hinges to the catches are chunky and solid feeling.

It is worth noting that, although by its very design you can easily walk around Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

the whole boat, the gunwales are topped with around 20-23 cm of flat non-slip surface. This means that you can also, quite literally, walk around this boat at gunwale height as well.

Opposite the transom seat you have a choice. Our boat was fitted with the optional wet bar, but a second seat, rear facing, can also be chosen to provide a more sociable aft cockpit area, perhaps a better choice for a family day boat as opposed to the more fishing/watersports friendly version we were onboard. The wet bar brings a small sink, a second bait well and a large coolbox that slides out on

“A fisherman’s friend, the R272 has all the makings of a fisher, but is a featureful dayboat as well”

39

runners at deck level.

Moving forward past the helm console, which Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll come back to in a bit, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good to see that there is a minimum 53cm gap down either side, which makes getting forward very easy. A nice little touch is the padded section on the top few inches of gunwale along the full length of the boat down both sides, to absorb any knocks you may have while making your way forward or moving around the boat when underway. On the starboard side, alongside the wet bar/helm, there is fishing rod storage built into the cockpit coaming, with a convenient toe rail along the bottom.

In the bow there is a flexible array of configurations. You can set it up like our test boat, with two forward facing lounge seats and centrally mounted table. The backrests can be removed and it becomes a multiple person dinette area, you can drop the table and add an infill to create a sunpad area, or you can remove all of the cushions and, with the table dropped, have a large flat, non-slip raised foredeck, which is great as an up-tide fishing platform. Hatches beneath these bow seats lift for access to fully lined lockers below. The hatches themselves are stayed with gas struts, and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even need to remove the cushions to gain access. A

40

November 2020

Onboard facilities. The toilet compartment is a particulary useful feature on this 27ft family dayboat

further self-draining locker can be found beneath the forwardmost section of bow seating and another hatch in the floor between the seats provides access to a large bilge storage area. Up on the raised bow area, there is an electric anchor winch concealed beneath a hatch, with friction hitches so that it stays where you put it, with an anchor locker below.

In front of the helm is a single forward facing seat mounted to a door that leads down into the boat’s toilet compartment.

This doesn’t offer standing headroom, but does deliver a comfortable, roomy and private seated area, which will be particularly appreciated by your female crew members. Our test boat had a sea toilet installed here and a small porthole and LED light means that it is far from claustrophobic, even with the door closed.

This space also offers a great place to store cushions, tables and other deckware when the boat is not in use.

At the helm you get a pair of comfortable and supportive seats, both Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

with lifting bolsters. A small ‘rubbish bin’ locker is conveniently placed in the seat base, with access to the space behind it available at the flick of a catch.

The skipper and crew get a two-tier footrest and the helm is equipped with an adjustable steering wheel. This, together with the combination of adjustable seats, lifting bolsters and two foot rests means that it is easy to find a comfortable and commanding driving position, regardless of your physique and whether you want to sit, stand or lean at the helm. The steering wheel has one of those knobs that allows easy and fast one-handed steering, which is a feature I really like on this style of boat. It’s a little thing, but again provides an insight to the approach taken to quality

by Robalo. I just love the way the bearings in this knob run so easily and smoothly. If you get a chance to get onboard, just try it.

The helm console has space for a couple of decent sized multifunction displays, and on our test boat these incorporated the engine instrumentation, leaving the

41

PERFORMANCE

As tested 30% fuel, 1 crew, Force 2 RPM

helm uncluttered by traditional dials and gauges. There is a small glove box, a holder for your phone, a cup holder and two self-draining storage trays for all your personal bits and pieces. Overhead there is a solid T-bar arrangement and this provides a couple of further lockers high up, as well as some sturdy grabrails down either side of the console. The front section of the console is enclosed on three sides by glass panels that provide almost complete protection from wind, rain and spray coming from ahead. It also brings with it the useful addition of a windscreen wiper. While this arrangement is great for the UK climate, it does of course, to a large extent, remove the open boat, wind in your hair experience. To go some way to alleviating a lack of air flow over the

600 (idle) 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000

Knots LPH

GPH

MPG

3.6 5.1 7.5 8.9 13.8 21.8 25.4 29.9 33.6 38.0 41.7 44.9

1.1 2.0 3.2 5.5 7.7 10.5 12.8 17.2 21.3 27.9 32.3 42.0

3.27 2.55 2.34 1.62 1.79 2.08 1.99 1.74 1.58 1.36 1.29 1.07

5.0 9.1 14.5 25.0 35.1 47.7 58.3 78.1 96.9 127.0 147.0 191.0

Range (nm)

490 382 350 242 268 311 298 260 236 203 192 160

helm on nice days, Robalo has installed an electrically opening vent window on top of the forward windscreen. The whole helm console can also be enclosed by canvas either when underway or just for protection/security when on a mooring.

Underway Leaving the River Test, and travelling in the 6 knot speed limit, the 272 felt like a dog on a leash, it just wanted to go. Little

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November 2020

Our test boat was fitted with the largest engine option and the acceleration was phenomenal

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rarely does a boat put a grin on my face as quickly and easily as this oneâ&#x20AC;? blips on the throttle hinted at what was to come as the speed limit buoy slipped astern, but I was still taken by surprise.

The power of the twin 250hp Yamahas was phenomenal. Rarely does a boat put a grin on my face as quickly and easily as this one. I kept dropping back off the plane, just so that I could experience that acceleration. Once I stopped messing about and got down to some serious testing, I actually struggled to get accurate acceleration times due to the swiftness that the boat passed the different landmark speeds. Nail the throttles and the boat is on the plane in around 2 seconds. It hits 20 knots in 4 seconds and is doing 30 knots on 6 seconds. Those figures are staggering for a sports fisher and are, in my experience, only matched by Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

out-and-out performance boats. When driven hard, the noise, like the power, from the Yamahas is a joy to behold.

With these acceleration figures, the top speed, although plenty fast enough at 45 knots, is perhaps rather modest. The boat can be driven hard and fast and behaves impeccably when doing so. Tight fast turns are taken in its stride, with only a hint of prop ventilation if you push it too far to help bring everything back under control. The steering is perfectly balanced and control is pinpoint accurate at all speeds. In short the 272 is as much fun to drive as any boat I have ever been on. The downside to this is, of course, the hooligan in you wants to drive it hard and fast all the time, and this will hit you firmly in the wallet.

43

Once the novelty of the power wears off, the 272 settles nicely into a cruise at what feels like a rather pedestrian 25 knots. At around 3500 rpm the noise levels are very acceptable, the ride smooth and even the fuel consumption can be lived with. In the low 20’s, the twin 250s are returning in the region of a very respectable 2nmpg.

Our test day did not deliver ‘testing’ conditions, but with regular ferry traffic and an occasional commercial vessel heading up Southampton water we found plenty of confused and choppy bits of sea to play in. The big flared bow dealt effortlessly with any waves, deflecting spray away from the boat and subsequently helping to deliver a very dry ride. The hull performed brilliantly, and as each ship’s wake was encountered I dared to leave more power on until I was hitting some decent sized waves all the way up to 40 knots, and finding the boat still remained very composed. Obviously in a rough sea with a continuous wave pattern that wouldn’t be the case but it tells me enough to believe that this boat would be more than capable of maintaining a decent pace into the sort of chop that would be knocking other 27ft boats off the plane.

The helm can be enclosed with a canvas canopy

As already mentioned the driving position is good, with a comfortable stance, leaning or seated position always available with appropriate adjustment. I always felt more in control at faster speeds if I was standing or leaning, but that is often the case on this style of boat, but particularly in this case as the steering wheel was just a little too far away to use the full support of the seat, while keeping a good grip on the wheel. Just a small amount of fore and aft adjustment on the seats would have made things perfect.

The wraparound screen offers great protection from the wind, and of course any spray or rain that you may encounter, and the opening top window provides a perfect degree of ventilation to keep you cool, should it be needed.

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November 2020

Conclusion I didn’t really know what to expect when boarding the Robalo, it was, after all, a totally new brand to me. I was thinking that if it could mimic anything like the performance of an equivalent Boston Whaler it would be doing very well. I’m going to stick my neck out and say not only did it do that, it may well have surpassed it. The quality of build appears every bit as good, if not better, and the performance and ride was pure class. Of course a boat like this does not come cheap, but look at the other quality alternatives and you will find that it stacks up very well in that regard too. If you are in the market for a sub 30ft

We were blown away by the Robalo R272

walkaround sportsfisher, and Robalo is not a name you have thought of, I would strongly advise that you get yourself acquainted. Not only do I think that you won’t be disappointed, you may well just be as blown away as I was.

ENQUIRIES: Ideal Boat Sales Ltd Tel: 01758 703013 www.idealboat.com YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Boston Whaler 280 Outrage

Wellcraft 262 Fisherman

Slightly larger than the Robalo, this comes with twin 300hp Mercury Verados, which should see it reaching 50 knots.

The slightly smaller 262 comes with single or twin outboards up to a total of 500hp. It is also available in iconic Scarab spec.

LOA: 8.53m Beam: 2.84m Displacement: 2,812kg ex eng Enquiries: Dorset Yacht Company 01202 674531 www.bostonwhaler.co.uk

LOA: 8m Beam: 2.7m Displacement: 3,084kg Enquiries: Sea Ventures 01489 565444 www.sea-ventures.co.uk

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Rodman 33 Offshore

The Spanish built Rodman uses its extra length to deliver a full blown 2-berth cabin and comes with twin outboards up to 600hp.

LOA: 10.7 m Beam: 3.0m Displacement: TBC Enquiries: RBS Marine 01243 512101 www.rbsmarine.com

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> NEXT MONTH Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

Beneteau ST41

45

Q&A

Your Questions Answered

Nine-day cruising break from Solent

Q With boating curtailed for much of this season, my first full one with the

boat unfortunately, I am determined to make the most of my week off at the end of October. I am based on the Hamble in the Solent, and so far my only trips have been in and around the Solent and I want to go further afield. With a maximum of nine days available, which direction should I head in and where are the must-visit stops en-route?

A Obviously it is all weather dependent but assuming good conditions I

would normally suggest heading across the Channel to the Channel Islands, but in today’s climate, and with restrictions still in place in Guernsey and possibly France, I would say, ‘go west’. Nine days is probably not quite enough for the full ‘West Country’ experience, but leaving the Solent I would put some miles under the hull and head for Weymouth, with maybe a stop in Lulworth Cove on the way. Then head around Portland Bill and across Lyme Bay where you have Brixham, Dartmouth, Salcombe and Plymouth all relatively close together. Depending how long you want to linger in each place, this may be more than enough to fill your nine days. If, however you want to keep moving, you could push on into Cornwall, where Fowey and Falmouth await. With the prevailing south westerlies, heading west is usually the trickiest part of a west country cruise, leaving a return journey to be completed in the relative comfort of a following sea, but keep an eye on the weather as it does occasionally blow up from the east, which can scupper your return journey.

PooleTourism

WeymouthHarbour

There is plenty to see and do at Weymouth. Coming back via Poole Harbour is an option 46

November 2020

If you have a question, email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Suzuki oil ratio

Q I have picked up a Shetland Family Four that has a Suzuki DT85 on the back. I have been told that the oil injection system has been disconnected and that I should pre-mix the two-stroke oil in the fuel tank.

The issue is, I have been told by two different people that the ratio should be 50:1 or 100:1. Which is it?

A First I would want to check that the oil injection

really has been disconnected. While this is a common modification to make on some old twostroke engines, the Suzuki system is always seen as being very reliable and rarely causing trouble, so removal is much rarer on these than other makes. If it has been removed, I would pre-mix at 50:1. While some outboard manufacturers did recommend a 100:1 mix there is, as far as I’m aware, no intrinsic differences made to the engines that operate on this leaner mix. In fact, the same engines sold for commercial use, were nearly always specified at 50:1.

The 100:1 thing for leisure boats was about reducing emissions and was possibly due to the reduced use that leisure engines get. Run it on 50:1 or, better still, see if the oil injection system can be re-commissioned.

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Q&A

Your Questions Answered

Solar charging system

Q Fingerscrossed I am planning to go off cruising next year, hopefully around Britain. I know that in many places I will struggle to find shorepower and am planning as best I can to not have to rely on it. I will be using gas for cooking, diesel for heating and the engine to provide hot water. I am thinking a solar charging system would be good to keep the batteries topped up so they can supply power for lights etc when I am moored up without electric. In the worse case, I could be weather bound for a few days at a time. How do I go about building a system and what size panel will I need?

A A solar system would provide a good backup to your battery charger

and engine when caught in port without power for a few days, but correct specification will require quite a bit of thought and calculation. The rule of thumb is to try and work out how much power you will need in a typical day. You have to include every light and an estimate how long they will be on for, any TV or stereo usage, your fridge, your water pump and even your USB and cigarette style outlets that you may use to charge things like phones etc. Think of everything that runs off the batteries that you might use on a typical day in port. Once you have worked out how many watts each item uses, and how many hours per day they will be on, you can times the Watts by the hours for each item and then add them all together to give you a daily Watt hours total. This number can be divided by the number of usable hours of sunshine per day, which is often quoted as being around 5 in the summer and as little as 1 in the winter. This will give you your required solar panel size. You will then need a charge controller of a suitable size to deal with the maximum watts that your solar panel will produce. If you end up with a 100 Watt panel for example, divide 100 by 12 to give you 8.3A. This means that you will need a 10A controller.

These calculations will allow for total dependence on solar, and indefinite running on solar power. If you wanted to, you could choose to reduce the size of your panel and system a little, on the basis that you are only looking for occasional and shortterm reliance, and always have your engine available should your batteries get low.

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November 2020

If you have a question, email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Handheld VHF

Q I am thinking of buying a handheld VHF as a backup

to the main set. It looks like prices start at less than £50 for an unknown brand on eBay right up to £200+ for a top spec radio from a well known make. I don’t want to spend more than I need to, but I don’t want to waste my money either. What Handheld would you recommend?

A Having a handheld VHF as a backup is a wise idea,

so you want to make sure that it works when needed. Some of those cheap unbranded radios may not deliver the performance they promise and I would avoid them, despite their tempting price. As an absolute minimum I would want a backup handheld VHF to be fully waterproof, and preferably floating too. Standard Horizon produces a couple of affordable handhelds. The excellent HX300E has a retail price of £133, but can be picked up online for under £100.

At that price it doesn’t seem worth looking anywhere else. For the same money, you can also get the HX210E, which includes an FM radio receiver.

Volvo KAD coolant

Q I have twin KAD43’s in my Sealine F37 and

occasionally one or the other engine will spit out its coolant.

Any ideas what is happening?

A A number of Volvo KAD engine models are prone to

this. The usual fix is to ensure that you only fill them to the minimum line of the header tank when the engine is cold. If you fill them to the max line, I understand there is sometimes not enough space left in the header tank to cope with the expansion of the coolant when hot, resulting in the headers overflowing. Try adjusting the levels to the minimum and see how you get on.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

49

Guernsey Keyhaven An enchantingly, picturesque anchorage and nature reserve that is ever-changing with the tide. Keyhaven is truly a Solent hidden gem

A

t the western end of the Solent, hidden from view behind an iconic, historical landmark, lies an anchorage that is often overlooked.

Nestling in the shelter of Hurst Castle and its high pebbled spit, lies the natural harbour of Keyhaven, with its wide, beautiful and ever-changing tidal estuary of marshes, saltings and mud flats.

With wildlife, nature and watersports in abundance and in simpatico, it is home to 500 boats of all shapes and sizes and has a captivating, unspoilt quay at its heart.

Keyhaven was established as a small fishing hamlet within the parish of Milford-on-sea. Historically, as a port, it dates back to the 1200s, but its natural estuary was also used for early salt

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November 2020

Destination

Keyhaven

KEYHAVEN

Chichester Lymington

Poole Yarmouth

Cowes

Weymouth

Salcombe

ŠMikeGriffiths/ZenDogCharters

production, an industry that was reignited in the 1700s. Being a small port, it has also been linked to smuggling. At the estuary mouth the fearsome fortress of Hurst Castle was built by order of notorious Tudor king, Henry VIII, to protect the western approaches to the Solent from invasion. Bordering the New Forest, Keyhaven is now a leisure haven, and albeit largely undiscovered and slightly off the beaten tourist track, it has thrived this season, particularly

with watersports. It also remains popular with artists and is an all-year-round spot for bird watching, with an array of wetland species frequenting the area. As a boating refuge the harbour provides a sheltered tidal anchorage. With facilities ashore, there is also the option of taking an all-tides swinging mooring, and for those who dare to dry out, a single walkashore, drying quayside mooring awaits.

While the weekend boating hordes flock to Newtown Creek, for the adventurous

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51

boater who loves a challenge it really should be experienced. At Keyhaven, less is most definitely more.

is advisable for a first-time visit. Those planning to visit Keyhaven will need to be wary of the strong cross tidal currents off Hurst Castle, which can run at 3-4 knots, often creating overfalls and choppy The Keyhaven River entrance is shallow, waters, particularly in wind against tide but becomes deeper once inside, so conditions. Like nearby Lymington, visitors will need to refer closely to a chart double high waters occur in the Keyhaven and tide predictions. Keyhaven is included River at, or near, spring tides. This is in Imray 2200 The Solent Chart Atlas, and due to the water being held up as it is detailed on chart page 2200.10. With floods through Hurst narrows. Such depths in the entrance of 0.4m above occurrences provide a useful stand, with chart datum, and even drying at certain tide prediction times and heights referring low water springs, an approach on a rising to the first high water, but after the stand tide, at half tide or close to high water, the water level falls rapidly. Outside of

Approaches

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November 2020

Destination

KEYHAVEN

Distances

Approximate distances in nautical miles from Keyhaven entrance: • Yarmouth 2 miles • Lymington wave screen 3.19 miles • Cowes 10 miles • Poole 17 miles • Portsmouth 18 miles Keyhaven Quay is a popular spot for small boats

spring tides there is a high water stand of roughly an hour either side of high water.

Keyhaven’s anchorage, and some of its swinging moorings, provide depths of up to 3 metres, but the river beyond is not really a place for large boats. Finally, be aware the anchorage is exposed if the wind is in the north to east sectors.

Those coming from the west will usually enter the Solent via the Needles Channel.

There is also the lesser-known North Channel, which is approached to the north of the Shingles, and is considered a much kinder route in windier weather.

Hurst Point itself is easily recognisable from east or west, and adorned with a white lighthouse and, of course, the lowlevel Tudor fortress of Hurst Castle. Lying half a nautical mile north-north-west of Hurst Point, the entrance to Keyhaven is marked by a set of port and starboard buoys with transit posts in the marshes beyond, indicating a leading line approach of 308 degrees. However, with the transit

Weather & Tides

• Weatherfile.com Hurst Castle weather actuals • Weatherfile.com Lymington Start Platform actuals • Lymington Harbour Weather & Tides • Bramblemet weather actuals from the Bramble Bank • Met Office Synoptics 5-Days • NOAA Weather data Channel Lightship • Met Office Shipping Forecasts Portland & Wight • Met Office Inshore Waters Forecast Selsey Bill to Lyme Regis • XCWeather Keyhaven forecast

Charts & Pilot Books • • • • • •

*Imray 2200 The Solent Chart Atlas *Imray Shell Channel Pilot *Admiralty SC5600 chart pack Solent Cruising Companion Solent Hazards Reeds Nautical Almanac

*Available at www.imray.com. Use offer code ‘KEY2020’ for 20% off and free UK carriage.

Offer expires 31st December 2020

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KEYHAVEN APPROACHES

The Gun Inn

MARSHES

Quay & boatyard

TH TPA FOO

Hawkers Lake

Ferry jetty MARSHES H PAT OT FO

ke La en av yh Ke

30

8°

not to be used for navigation

ke nt La Mou

Special Mark

Hurst Point Lighthouse Ferry jetty Hurst Castle

Shallow and narrow, two words you’ll need to remember when visiting. River Warden, Steve Wood

posts being often difficult to make out, visitors can, with adequate height of tide, generally edge towards the entrance buoys from an outer seasonal yellow race mark (Mar-Nov) on the outer 2-metre contour line. Note there is a 4-knot speed limit once inside the entrance. Once through the entrance buoys, another port marker, followed by several starboard-hand buoys, lead around the shingle spit of North Point and into the anchorage. Bear round

close to the spit, steering south towards the lighthouse, avoiding the urge to cut immediately across to the swinging moorings. The anchorage is located just inside the curve of the shingle spit.

For those travelling further upstream, starboard markers continue to mark the curve of the deep-water channel. This continues on around to the mouth of Mount Lake, and onwards marking the edges of Short Reach and up towards the quay. It is important to note that the swinging moorings mark the deepest water, so it is advisable to stick close to the moored boats, and the starboard channel buoys mark the edge of shallows.

The channel, now drying, then bears north-north-east before turning north

Hurst overfalls. Albeit shortlived, the waters can ‘boil’ here due to opposing currents at high water

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November 2020

Destination

KEYHAVEN

Where to fill up

The blue-hulled Hurst Ferries often act as watertaxis to the swinging moorings on VHF 74

east again to pass closely alongside a grey stone seawall lined with small moored boats, amongst which is the Hurst Castle Ferry jetty. Further along this wall is a small yacht club pontoon, a flood-gated shingle beach with single storey yacht club behind, and, protruding out into the river, the concrete L-shaped quay itself.

The white-painted, two-storey River Warden Office, resembling a lookout post, overlooks the quay, while behind this is a small drying harbour, lined with small boats. A sluice gate in the grey stone wall at the top of the harbour marks the end of navigation, and above it lies Avon Water.

Keyhaven has another entrance channel further north, known as Hawkers Lake, which is named after a Colonel Peter Hawker who is believed to have dug it out, enabling a quicker route from Keyhaven to Pennington marshes. Much shallower by comparison, the deepest part is marked with Hawkers buoy, a yellow uncharted unlit buoy, and once over the bar the depth increases slightly. There are plans

There is no fuel available at Keyhaven, so refuelling prior to a visit is advisable. The nearest petrol garage is on the Lymington Road towards Lymington, which is approximately 4 miles away.

Waterside fuel, diesel and petrol, is readily available at Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, and also at Lymington, at the Yacht Haven and Berthon marinas.

Marine supplies

Lift out, storage, maintenance and marine engineering services are available at the on-site boatyard, West Solent Boat Builders (01590 642080). The boatyard uses the quay and slipway to launch and haul out vessels using its yard tractor or 9-tonne mobile crane. It has a team of inboard and outboard marine engineers on site, and is a stockist and specialist for several engine manufacturers, including Volvo Penta, also offering repower and winterising services. It also has a small boatyard chandlery-cum-cafĂŠ.

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afoot for new, limited access visitor buoys to be placed here in the near future.

draft can be accommodated on the first 12 moorings and will float at all states of tide. In Mount Lake, the first 12 buoys are also relatively deep and can accommodate The friendly River Warden of six years, boats of around 33ft, with potential of Steve Wood, told Motorboat Owner that 36ft boats, depending on draft, tides and visitors can generally pick up any buoy, size of the adjacent yachts (allowing for as long as there is not a tender on it. swing room). Steve stressed that if you Otherwise visitors are welcome to anchor find yourself moored amongst vessels that in Keyhaven Lake, which is just inside the are smaller than your own, it is best not to spit and offers good holding. linger for long. He would also encourage If visitors arrive and are considering visitors to use their own lines to secure picking up a buoy, it is advisable to contact to the buoy and not use the mooring Steve and his team for guidance. Visitors owners strops. Keyhaven currently has can call the Harbour Office on arrival or no dedicated visitor buoy moorings. in advance (preferable) on VHF channel However, in future, to help visitors 37 or 01590 645695 (not 24 hours), or by identify moorings that are available, Steve emailing keyhavenriverwarden@nfdc. says they intend to attach yellow visitors gov.uk in advance. Note, buoys cannot pick up buoys with 2m of 8mm galvanised be reserved. The first 18 moorings from chain to moorings available for use. the main entrance are in relatively deep With its unspoilt marshes vanishing water, with the 18th mooring, KR18, being and reappearing with each tide, the outer located at the junction of Mount Lake. moorings provide a ring side seat to the Boats up to 40ft with up to a 2-metre many spectacles of nature. It is a bird

Where to moor

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November 2020

Destination

KEYHAVEN

Food supplies

Buoy moorings are available, on an adhoc basis, for overnight or short stay visitors up to 40ft

watchers paradise. In the summer you can watch the adult terns teaching their young to fish, dropping sandeels into the water for them to forage. It is a magical place.

In 2021 it is anticipated that there will be seven new yellow visitors pick up buoys positioned at the eastern end of Hawker’s Lake. These will be seasonal moorings only, as they are slightly more exposed, and Steve added that these will also be close to a tern nesting site on the raised gravel beach area on the southeast end of the marsh, so they will need to monitor mooring disturbance. These buoys may be used for motorboats and bilge keel yachts able to take the ground if need be. The lake bed here is described as ‘quite hard’, comprising of gravel /shale.

The overnight price for, what is classed as, a ‘large mooring’ is £18, while a ‘medium/small mooring’ is £14 per night and it is £11 to overnight in the anchorage.

Short stays are also available and charges are £6 for the anchorage and £10 for the buoys. Weekly swinging moorings are also

There is a Co-op food store in Milford-on-sea, which is 0.9mile walk from the Quay and is open daily 7am-10pm. There is also a greengrocer, a fishmonger, delicatessen, butcher and a wine merchant in the village centre, on Church Hill and the High Street.

Further afield

The Solent is a playground of town quays, marinas and anchorages. The nearby Beaulieu River, Yarmouth harbour on the Isle of Wight (see guide in Sept 17 issue) and the attractive market town of Lymington (see May 16 issue) are within easy reach, as are the popular local anchorages of Newtown Creek and Alum Bay. The Solent boating mecca that is Cowes is also only a 12-mile trip east. West, the ports of Weymouth (Mar15) and Poole (Jan14) are also within easy cruising distance along with the wonders of the Dorset coast, such as Lulworth Cove and Studland Bay.

available, priced at £60/£72 respectively for a medium or large mooring buoy.

Toilets and showers are available for visiting boaters, sail and power, at

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There is a drying berth on the south side of the quay and the deeper east side (right) is reserved for 30-minute stays. Inset photo, the Keyhaven Yacht Club pontoon for patrons and visiting tenders

Keyhaven Yacht Club. There is also a cubical-style toilet block located in the car park on the other side of the boatyard.

The Hurst Castle ferries act as watertaxis and can pick up boaters from the moorings and land them either at the castle or at the quay for a fee (VHF Ch 74).

For those using an inflatable to get ashore at the Quay, these can be tied to the outer corners of the east-facing concrete quay.

This 23-metre section is the deepest side (all tides for tenders) and should be kept clear, as it is reserved for 30-minute stays only and it is used by fishing boats and for unloading. The north side of the quay is used for launching and recovering from the slipway. Pulling inflatables up onto the shingle sections of the quay is another option, being mindful of other users and not obstructing the sailing dinghy and launching thoroughfare. Boaters using or visiting the Keyhaven Yacht Club can leave tenders on its floating pontoon, this is 50 metres south of the quay.

Smaller boats, with drafts not exceeding 1.5m, wanting a high water lunch stop at the local pub or yacht club, or water tank top up, can moor against the southern part of the quay by arrangement with the River Warden Office. This section may be used for short stays but also overnight berthing for boats with the ability to take to the ground up to 36ft. This woodenclad quayside has substantial mooring bollards and is equipped with water and shorepower connection, the latter is available at no extra charge. This one-boat berth dries to a hard shingle/shale/mud, so drying legs may be useful here. A short stay here is ÂŁ12 and ÂŁ20 for overnight.

Full pricing is detailed on the Keyhaven River/New Forest Council webpage.

Trailboating

A main slipway is located on the north side of the Quay. The semi-enclosed slipway, with its useful parallel quay, is accessible two hours either side of high

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November 2020

Destination

KEYHAVEN

There is a concrete ramp on the north side of the quay. Small boat trailers are stored on the shingle

water and open to all on payment of the appropriate launching fee (based on length of boat), apart from PWCs which are prohibited. It is also limited to boats no bigger than 20ft in length overall.

Access to the Quay and its slipway is via the un-named road in front of the Keyhaven Yacht Club and across the narrow shingle beach, driving forwards.

There is a small area for trailers on the shingle area in front of the River Warden Office. Keyhaven’s River Wardens urge users not to lock their trailer so they can be moved if necessary. They also stress that facilities for launching from trailers is extremely limited and capacity is small.

Users should also note that the slipway is often in use by the boatyard on weekdays.

Trailer vehicle car parking is available in the pay and display, non-24hr car park on the west side of the boatyard. There is also a number of free bays in the road that runs along the north seawall, near the sluice gate. Small tender and inflatable users can again approach in front of the yacht club, and launch by hand on the shingle beach.

With easier access to the slipway through its boatyard, West Solent Boat Builders

also offer seasonal ‘launch & go’ and summer storage packages for boaters.

Fees are payable per launch or by the purchase of a season ticket. Launch charges for trailboats under 12ft are £10, 12-16ft £18, 16-19ft £25 and over 19ft £42. Paddleboards, canoes and kayaks are £5 each. It is also possible to launch light inflatable items in the western corner of the harbour, in the shelter of Hurst Spit.

The junction of Saltgrass Lane and New Lane is a popular waterside parking spot for daytrippers and campers. However, be aware the road is narrow here and the tide covers the road and its parking bays on a spring tide.

Quay slipway access is tricky and across shingle

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200 malt whiskies and excellent pub grub on offer. The Gun Inn is a traditional pub with a garden

There is plenty of accommodation in the area, including two holiday parks at nearby Milford-on-sea and the beautiful marsh-front, 8-bed Old Post House at Keyhaven itself.

Where to eat and drink

Keyhaven has one popular pub, The Gun Inn. Located a short distance from the Quay, it is a traditional 18th century English pub that is full of character and history, and offers excellent pub food classics, a variety of ales and a reported 200 malt whiskies. It is also well known for its dressed crab and crab sandwiches.

Boaters are also welcomed at the bars of Keyhaven’s two neighbouring yacht clubs, the Keyhaven Yacht Club and Hurst Sailing Club. You can also grab a coffee or an ice cream at the boatyard chandlery.

In nearby Milford-on-sea there is a good choice of restaurants, cafes and tea rooms. This includes the small and quirky watering hole, The Washhouse (01590 644665), which happens to be the old launderette, and as a micro ale pub, it offers a great range of ales, ciders and gins. Although it doesn’t provide food, you can order a takeaway and get it delivered.

Local restaurants also offering takeaways include Indian restaurant, Monsoori

Nights (01590 644441) and Britannia Thai (01590 642226). Finally, for that extra special night, there is the Michelin star fish restaurant, Verveine (01590 642176), which comes highly recommended by one Lymington based boat owner.

Places to see and visit

Hurst Castle is a must for visitors to this area. The Tudor artillery fortress commissioned by Henry VIII and built between 1541 and 1544, was one of a chain of artillery defences protecting key ports in the Solent, including the trading port of Southampton and the naval base at Portsmouth. Steeped in history, it was here King Charles I was held during the winter of 1648 prior to his trial and execution in London. Although adapted in the 1860s, the castle remains mainly Tudor and consists of a two-storey gun tower or keep, surrounded by an outer wall with three bold semi-circular bastions and a gatehouse protected with a portcullis. Today it offers fantastic views across the Solent and Isle of Wight and is a great place to explore for all ages.

Adult admission is £5.50, concessions are £5 and children aged 5-17 years are £3.50. A ferry service to the castle takes visitors from a small pontoon jetty from

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Destination Keyhaven, and into the castle’s inlet, called the ‘Camber’ with its wooden jetty. Fares are £4 for adults, £3 for children aged 3+ and returns are £7 for adults, £4 for children aged 3 and upwards. It is also a great walk out to Hurst Castle, following the waterfront path from the quay south, crossing the footbridge and out along the shingle spit. This 2-mile walk should take you roughly 45 minutes and, don’t worry if you are finding the pebbles hard work underfoot, you can always get the Hurst Ferry back. If you are on a swinging buoy and are wanting to visit the castle, River Warden, Steve, said, landings by tender can be made anywhere in the Camber, tide permitting, providing the ferry and its landing are not obstructed, or on the inside of the spit.

For those who enjoy walking or have bikes onboard, be prepared to be spoilt as there are lots of picturesque walks and rides to be had. To the west of Keyhaven and a 1½-mile walk or cycle is Milford-on-sea, which offers a charming village centre and green, and a range of restaurants, café’s shops and pubs. Follow Keyhaven Road into the High Street but you could consider coming back along the beachfront. For those who are feeling

KEYHAVEN

Walks and beautiful scenery. What’s not to like?

fit, north east is the market town of Lymington. For this, walkers and cyclists can opt for the shorter inland 3.5-mile road route, or the picturesque gravel 5-mile coast path, which takes in the beautiful, historic salt marshes and ponds, but be aware, the latter can feel quite exposed in windier weather.

Keyhaven is popular for watersports especially dinghy sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The estuary area that nestles behind the high Hurst Spit, known locally as Keyhaven’s ‘lagoon’, is particularly popular for paddleboarding and kayaking, and it is easy to see why, being very sheltered and shallow, with much to explore. Keen anglers are also able to take a fishing trip out from the quay to catch their tea, through fishing charter boat company, Greg Pitt Sea Fishing. MBO

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SMALL BOAT ADVENTURES

AROUND THE ISLE OF WIGHT

Guernsey Small RIB big grins Simon Everett takes his 4m Avon Searider around the Isle of Wight

It

is all too easy to become overwhelmed by fashions and expectations that lead to a game of one-upmanship, but sometimes less really is more. On a large motorboat, or even a big RIB, long passages such as cross Channel forays do not seem to be too much bother or engender feelings of adventure. On the other hand, making a moderate passage in a small boat creates a voyage of epic proportions in comparison. The little boat in a big sea

suddenly acquires a sense of adventure that big boats would find hard to match.

Even going round the Isle of Wight in a bit of breeze takes on a new meaning. The Avon Searider 4m, which has its roots in the very Genesis of RIB building, is still relevant today, despite being a classic and offers an easy and very affordable entry into motorboat ownership. Like any true classic design, it never dates and performs every bit as well as it ever did.

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Lymington Cowes

Needles

RIBs have been likened to being the marine version of a 4x4. Maintaining the theme, the Searider 4m may be comparable to a good off-road motorbike, capable of going into tighter, shallower water than the bigger versions, yet still capable of making lengthy passages.

Being closer to the action and having less surrounding you to isolate you from the elements enhances the experience of getting the wind through your hair. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face it, a 4m RIB is hardly conducive to

St Catharines Point

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Proper preparation provides peace of mind. Navigation, emergency and food requirements

maintaining a carefully managed hairstyle but that is hardly the point. Given a chance, these little boats are capable of some quite extraordinary feats, limited only by fuel range and weather conditions.

If Michael Alexander and Richard Frere could take one of these very boats around the coast of Scotland (which they did in 1989), cruising around the Isle of Wight in an afternoon should be a breeze.

We launched in Lymington under an

Ample fuel. Twin 25-litre fuel tanks strapped in

azure sky with only the slightest whiff of wind. There was barely a cloud in the sky and what little air movement there was wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get a yachttie very far. We looked forward to an easy run east through the Solent to Bembridge Ledge, going clockwise for a change, just for the hell of it.

To provide sufficient fuel range for the voyage we had prepared the little boat with an extra fuel tank. Two 25-litre tanks were sat against the transom, because they are too big to go in the jockey console, and a further 12-litre tank was placed under the seat. 62 litres in total should be plenty to fuel the Yamaha F50 for the trip, and still have a decent reserve. In addition to ensuring we had plenty of fuel, we had a full inventory of safety kit. Nothing out of the ordinary, but sufficient to deal with those unforeseen things that happen when you least expect them. There was a repair kit for the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tubes, a spare kill

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LYMINGTON: 0nm 10:46am Fully fuelled, Simon set forth from Lymington to circumnavigate the Isle of Wight, clockwise

cord and ignition key, a tool kit, a first aid kit, a hand held chartplotter, a hand held VHF, paper chart, compass, offshore flares, personal miniflares, whistle, lifejacket, food, drink, spare clothes, foulies, suncream, sunhat, sunglasses, oars (the Avon comes equipped with a pair in straps), bellows, a spare fuel line, anchor, chain and 50m of warp plus the usual mooring lines. Not a bad inventory for “a little boat” and one that would put many bigger boats I have been on to shame.

All this disappeared into a couple of dry bags and a hard tub, which was stowed in the jockey seat on top of the spare 12-litre fuel tank. Believe it or not, there was still room for more. It’s amazing what will disappear into the boat if stowed sensibly and sympathetically. Getting on the plane, with the weight of all that aboard, and the water in the flooded keel, was a bit of a game that required me to stand, leaning well forward, right over the front of the console while commanding a great handful of throttle. At first it would struggle, but as the keel emptied the hull would level off and the boat shoot away. I

found that weaving the wheel a bit would shorten the run up to take off, something that was going to come in useful later on.

The run out from Lymington and over to Cowes, just to put my nose in, was uneventful. The water was as flat as a

COWES: 10nm 11:25am Reaching Cowes and all was well, so far

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A nice easy pace on a calm sea heading towards Bembridge. It was surprisingly quiet for the Solent

pancake and the weather was glorious but, strangely, there was very little traffic about. From the entrance to Cowes I ran reasonably close to the shoreline, about 400m off, to the beach huts lined up along the West Ryde shoreline, and then out past the sandbanks off Ryde. Even though it was a flooding tide I wasn’t taking any chances and went through the channel markers off the forts before setting a course for the end of the pier at Bembridge. As I approached foreland, keeping a sharp lookout for pot markers, the rocks and kelp were still in evidence so I gave the shallows of the ledge a wider berth before heading into Whitecliff Bay to drift about while I ate my sandwiches

and had a drink. There wasn’t enough wind to make it worth dropping anchor, so I just gave myself plenty of leeway from the beach.

The next leg was a sheltered run across Sandown Bay and Shanklin, in the lee of Dunnose, but once I rounded the corner on the run to Ventnor things began to liven up. Despite the very light breeze there was a swell picking up and the wind had freshened from the south west, rather more than the shipping forecast had foretold, backed up by the coastguard notification on the VHF. The conditions are amplified when you are on a small craft, which makes listening to the shipping forecast and heeding it even ST CATHERINE’S POINT 38nm 13:54HRS

WHITECLIFF BAY: 26nm 12:20 HRS 66

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THE NEEDLES : 53nm 15:17HRS more important.

The tidal current off St. Catherine’s was working up a confused sea and in the little Avon it made for an interesting section of the passage, but nowhere near the limit of this boat’s capabilities. The short, steep seas did make for a bit of a bumpy ride though, and my legs began to ache from standing up and taking the strain. The sea was mainly off the port bow, but with tidal peaking coming from all directions. I had to sit down and take the weight off my legs as my left leg was pumped from the constant working. Sitting down meant I had to ease off on the throttle, this in turn limited my view and so I couldn’t read the waves as far ahead as the extra height of eye when stood allowed. Trying to pick a route through the waves was fine until I got it wrong and met a steepening wave, this would launch the little boat at wild angles off waves that a bigger craft would have battered into submission. I was being tossed about by the conditions but the little boat was exceptionally dry and never shipped a drop, despite the lively seas, as it danced off the waves with the result of hitting some waves that I would normally steer around. This is where my technique of wheel waggling to quicken the hull onto

the plane helped, as I worked the throttle as best I could to remain comfortable.

After some time I finally made it across the bay between St. Catherine’s and The Needles Point.

Off The Needles the sea was picking up as the tide ran over the reef, although it was much calmer here than what I had already been through. With the white cliffs and the red and white lighthouse as a backdrop, I was treated to an aerial display from a couple of old aeroplanes that were, I think, doing some photography as they played around over the Needles for a bit.

One was a pale blue seaplane, the other looked like a Mustang. They were flying in very close formation, one above the other, in steep climbs, dives and dive turns. As they completed their routine the Mustang dived and flew through the eye of the

The Avon ‘danced off ’ the waves but it was tiring

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HURST POINT: 59nm 15:41 HRS Too quick for the camera but Simon had a welcoming reception from the friendly dolphin off Hurst

needle below the height of the coastguard lookout! After my battering it was nice to be able to heave to, relax and watch the planes for five minutes. The 4m Avon rode the swells with ease, thanks to the flooding keel providing ballast at the lowest point.

This is the original design and it still works very well over forty years later. There aren’t many boats that remained unchanged for that length of time and were still in production and selling well? It just goes to show how practical the original Searider design was.

With the aeroplanes departing I put the stick forward and headed through the Needles and back across the western Solent and ‘The Trap’ off Hurst Castle. My timing was spot on, the last of the flood

meant that this section of the trip was less taxing at a time when I was getting tired from the exertions of a fairly hard trip in a small boat. What little sea there was came from astern and was therefore much less noticeable. Hurst Point came in a rush and was flat calm. Just inside Hurst Point, in a direct line with the mouth of the Lymington River, I was joined by a dolphin which played around in the bow wave for a bit.

I was concerned about the proximity of the animal to the propeller and so slowed.

The dolphin came right up alongside and leant on the hull of the boat. I hove to and the creature obviously liked human contact, sticking its nose out of the water right beside me. I couldn’t resist and

ROUND THE ISLAND: 68nm over 4 HRS 32.5 LITRES

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reached out, whereupon the dolphin allowed me to touch it and it stayed on the surface for about five minutes, right beside the RIB. Apparently it is quite a common occurrence. It was a new experience for me though, and one I shall remember for the rest of my life. There is something about dolphins which seems to touch the human psyche.

After a few minutes with the dolphin I headed back for the river, we were approaching the top of the tide and I wanted to make recovery of the boat onto its trailer as easy as possible. Coming back up the river I had a chance to reflect on the trip. It was only a day round the Isle of Wight, the little boat had come through with flying colours and illustrates just how much fun you can have in a small, affordable boat. This was nothing to a boat of this pedigree, indeed it would seem the only restriction to what the 4m Searider can do is the fuel range and your own imagination. She proved herself in some pretty rough water, I covered just over 68 miles in 4 hours and used 32.5 litres of fuel. That is pretty economical boating and I look forward to making more small boat adventures. Maybe that old saying, “less is more”, still has relevance in today’s world after all.

If big adventures in small boats interests you, we plan to run a series of features on the subject over the coming months.

In the meantime, you may be interested in this YouTuber who has restored an Avon Searider and is currently on his way around Great Britain in it. Starting in London, Harry Dwyer is currently in North Cornwall, with six films covering the journey so far.

You can see Harry’s journey so far on

1700 miles in a tiny speedboat AROUND THE UK - Harry Dwyer Click to view

>

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tested Blu Thru engine flushing kit

PRICE kit inc dispenser & 40 tablets

£29.95 £19.95

PRICE 40 tablet refill kit

You don’t need me to tell you that salt is the enemy of almost all metals, and it also leaves unsightly marks behind on other materials such as glass and GRP. I have always been a big advocate of flushing outboards, whenever I can, to try and remove salt from the cooling system because, as well as corrosion issues, the build up of salt deposits is one of the most common Motorboat Owner reasons for blockages in the internal cooling passages and overheating. In the past I have been a fan of a “A cost effective product called Salt Away, which came with a dispenser and could flushing be used to flush engines or simply hose down boats and trailers agent” etc. Unfortunately my dispenser went astray and in the hunt for Value 3/5 a replacement I stumbled across another, similar, product that I Usability 3/5 Performance 5/5 thought I would try, not least because it was quite a bit cheaper.

The product was called Blu Thru and describes itself as a salt flushing system. Like Salt Away, it came with it’s own dispenser, but unlike Salt Away, which is a liquid, it comes in tablet form. The kit was £30, and this included 40 tablets.

The idea of these kind of products is not only to flush and wash away traces of salt, plain fresh water will do that, but they may also offer a degree of salt neutralizing effect, and some long term protection against corrosion.

Its use is simple. You just plug the dispenser onto your hose line, using the Hoze Lock style fittings, and a knob on top provides the option to turn the flow completely off, flush through with just plain water, and flush through using the Blu Thru tablets. To flush the engine I connected it straight onto a set of flushing muffs, fired up the engine and started with a simple fresh water flush, to warm the engine up to temperature and get the worst of the salt out. I then switched over to the tablet flush. Using the tablets, the flushing water turns blue and gradually, over a period of a few minutes, goes back to clear again as the tablets dissolve and get flushed through. You can either continue engine flushing until the water goes clear or, a better solution for long term storage, turn off the engine and water while part way through. The latter procedure leaves Blu Thru inside the engine.

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All tests in Motorboat Owner are carried out by real boaters in real life situations

A blue rinse. Put the tablet in and connect the kit to engine flush muffs and a running hose

You can also use the dispenser on a hose with a spray gun to wash down the boat, trailer or outboard externals to remove salt and therefore reduce corrosion and lessen salt marks when dry. The number of tablets you use depends upon the application. For small outboards and PWCs they recommend two tablets, going up to four for larger outboards or inboard engines. This means that a kit, or refill, is suitable for between 10-20 flushes at a cost of between £1 and £2 per flush after the initial purchase of a dispenser. The tablets can be dropped directly into a strainer of an inboard engine, doing away with the need to purchase the whole kit, or can also be used in a bucket at the ratio of four tablets to a gallon of water for a general cleaning solution.

While it seemed to work just as well as Salt Away, I decided to run a separate test using some saltwater and a couple of mild steel nails. The nails were each placed in a jar, one of which contained water that had been collected mid flow from the dispenser, so at

Wash off. Use it to flush the salt off trailers and tenders, to help protect from rust and salt staining Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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tested

Long term protection? Mild steel nails were placed in saltwater and Blu Thru solution

the same concentration that is used when flushing or rinsing, the other in plain water.

To this water I added salt at the correct concentration to mimic seawater, as I wanted to see how good its salt neutralizing abilities were. I then left these standing for a few weeks. In reality, the product works with fresh flushing water, so this was perhaps a tougher ask than the product has been designed for, but when I have tested Salt Away in the past, using a similar method, the mild steel nail came out of the saltwater solution completely corrosion free, so it would at least be a good comparison of its neutralizing abilities against, possibly, its biggest rival.

The end result was a little disappointing. The jar with Blu Thru had slightly discoloured and there was evidence of rust accumulation around the nail. On removal of the two nails, there was a small difference in corrosion levels between the nail left in plain saltwater and the one left in a saltwater/Blu Thru solution, so it is having some effect, but I think in reality it is best thought of as a flushing agent, rather than a neutralizing and long term storage solution.

The difference in measured TDS (total dissolved solids) and salinity levels between the two water samples was small in both cases, in favour of the Blu Thru example both times, but not enough to make me think that Blu Thru has greatly changed the water chemistry. TDS was 682 compared to 717, salinity was 1.026 compared to 1.029 In conclusion, the price is very good compared to alternatives, and as a flushing agent it is surely better than fresh water alone, so a good, cost effective choice, but I would look for an alternative if I wanted to leave a solution inside an engine for corrosion protection for long term storage, and that alternative would be the more expensive Salt Away. Enquiries Boatworld UK www.boatworld.co.uk 72

November 2020

Hooked Simon Everett goes pike fishing

T

here is something deep within the human psyche that creates an emotional response when faced with certain images. Sharks, tigers and lions, snakes, spiders and pike are some of the creatures which illicit this response. All these creatures have the same thing in common, they are noted predators. Pike have attained an almost cult status amongst anglers, quite rightly in my opinion, but despite their voracious nature they need treating very carefully to avoid injuring them. Even if they swim off strongly, some can succumb to poor handling a day or so later.

For freshwater boaters pike are a feature of virtually every waterway, with very few that do not have some in their ecosystem.

The major rivers and lakes are of most interest to the motorboater looking to do

a spot of pike fishing. My own preference is to only use artificial lures or fly fish, but many anglers will fish with bait, with frozen lamprey, smelt, mackerel, herring or sprats being the most favoured.

Pike have over 700, razor sharp teeth that face backwards, once grasped it is virtually impossible for a fish to escape the clamp-like jaws of the pike. For the angler this toothy array poses a problem when it comes to carefully unhooking your catch, long forceps or long-nosed pliers are an absolute must, as is the use of a wire trace, otherwise those teeth will sever your line in a heartbeat. Despite their ferocious appearance pike are very delicate fish that require careful and considerate handling, this aspect needs to be learned before trying to catch pike and a padded mat to lay the fish on is essential, as the hard surfaces of a boat can cause internal TACKLE: PIKE LURES & FLOAT injuries.

A standard spinning rod and reel is ideal for pike fishing, in fact it is probably the singular most versatile outfit you can buy. Float fishing a bait can be practiced using the same rod, only the terminal tackle changes. For lure fishing a secure clip is used on the end of the line to facilitate easy and quick changes of lure, these need to be the locking type. For float fishing the clip can be left off and the trace tied to the reel line using a swivel at the joint between reel line and wire trace.

Pike floats are designed to avoid tangling. A The depth of water will dictate whether homemade pike lure. A box of assorted pike lures

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A landing net is a great help from a boat. Inset, smelt rigged for float fishing. Simon releasing a decent pike. Pike will take a surface lure and can often go airborne during the fight

you need a weight or not. If the water is less than about 15 feet deep and has little or no current then fishing with very little weight will present your bait as naturally as possible. This is a matter of trial and error, but a bait that is fluttering down gently under its own weight will be far more attractive to any lurking predator.

Lure fishing is blessed with myriad choice of lures, the humble broad bladed spinner is still a potent fish catcher, as are deep bodied lures about 4 or 5 inches long that imitate either a roach or goldfish. Yes really, one of the roles of this predator is to remove alien species, so a gold lure triggers aggressive strikes. To be honest, the size and movement of the lure is more important than the colour.

Finding the right depth is paramount, especially in cold conditions, which is why the autumn is the prime time for pike, with the water at a more stable temperature. As a rule I would always start searching in water around 15 feet (5m) deep. Of course in canals that isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t possible, so the edge of the cut where the

slope meets the bottom, or any kind of feature, will be where pike will lurk. The slightest depression, a patch of weed, a sunken branch or other obstruction are all able to supply the pike with cover from which to ambush their prey.

When casting lures try and cover the water thoroughly by fan casting, or troll slowly to cover as much of the likely water as possible. Bait fishing is more static, but that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean you can leave a rod to fish itself. Hold your rod and watch the float for any kind of change in behaviour.

The slightest tremble, or if it gently rises,

700 teeth, but handling like this is perfectly safe

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Hooked continued... these takes can be very subtle, your float might lift by a couple of millimetres and just fall slightly, or it might be a bit of a bob, you have to be watching intently to notice the tiny movements, but watch you must to avoid having your bait swallowed, a deeply hooked pike is a dead pike and that is something we all want to avoid.

Pike are precious.

Be prepared for a fast and furious fight by setting your drag to yield line just before the rod reaches full arc and have a large landing net at the ready to secure your catch and in which to cradle it as you boat it. If you can, it is always preferable to unhook the pike in the water and to remove them for the minimum possible length of time. Likewise, releasing them requires care and attention, hold the fish the right way up in the water and allow it to regain its strength before releasing it.

The pike will let you know when it is ready to go back, often with a parting gift of a faceful of water for your trouble!

The colour and patterns on pike vary according to the surroundings, in some lakes they have a discernible turquoise tinge to them, in others they can be dark and others very pale. Individuals can be recognised by the patterns on their sides as these donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change even though they get bigger. Pike are also quite sedentary, remaining within the same area most of their life unless something causes them to have to move. Even on large inland lakes radio tagging pike has shown they rarely move more than a few hundred metres. This is one reason why being cautious about publicising your catches is so important, there are those who would net the area to catch the pike and remove years of conservation in hours. Pike fishing becomes a passion and once you have experienced the adrenaline rush as a big pike takes off, you will understand the fervour.

A lovely pike caught off a boat in a beautiful setting. Inset, careful release is a must. Pike are actually quite delicate

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Motorboat Owner

PROJECT BOAT

PROJECT Fairline Vixen

I

started the month staring in the face of the final hurdle on the mechanical side of our project boat. Last month the engine electrics were completed, meaning we finished the month with the engine â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;on the buttonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. All that remained was the fuel system. The carburettors have been cleaned and overhauled but were still only loosely fitted to the inlet manifold, as it was easier to work on the engine without them in the way, so the first job on the list was to install them with some new gaskets.

The next job was to install the linkage that joins the two carbs together. Again my library of old photos taken during

disassembly came in very handy here to ensure it was all put back together in the right orientation.

Moving back into the workshop, it was time to tackle that fuel feed line. This is a metal pipe that comes off the lift pump and feeds fuel into the two carbs. The original pipe had corroded so badly that the end that connects to the fuel pump had snapped off. This part is no longer available from Volvo Penta, so I was left with two options. I could try and do a partial repair, by replacing just the damaged end, or look to build a whole new pipe from scratch. I chose the latter.

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After some careful measuring I worked out that the pipe itself was 6mm OD and the two bolts that fix the banjo fittings to the carbs were M10, so one straight-through and one end banjo with 10mm bolt holes were sourced, along with a length of 6mm copper pipe. The connection that goes into the fuel pump is a compression fitting, which requires the end of the pipe to be flared. This had an unusual thread that, with some expert help, was finally identified as 7/16 24tpi. After much Internet searching, I finally found one and placed my order.

With all the bits received, I set to work with my pipe cutting, flaring and bending tools to replicate the original part. The pipe has a coil midway between the two carb connections to allow a small amount of flexibility between them, and this would also give me a small margin for error in my replicating process. The banjos were the solder type so, rather than doing this myself with lead solder and a butane torch, I took it to an engineer who had oxyacetylene equipment and silver solder, which has a much higher melting point and replicates the original arrangement.

The twin carbs were bolted to the inlet manifold and the throttle linkage attached

Parts were sourced for a new fuel feed pipe

HOW TO IN 15 STEPS >

1

The copper pipe was uncoiled and straightened, this is not as easy as it sounds and takes care and patience

2

I used some very rudimentary geometry, and my old school protractor, to work out the first angle

3

I was able to confirm the accuracy of this by placing the old pipe in the bender

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4

I then marked the zero point on the old pipe and measured the length from that point to the fuel pump connection 7

5

This gave me my zero mark on the new pipe. I added an extra bit of length, that can be cut off later, as a precaution 8

6

The next bend was clearly 90°, and again placing the old pipe in the bender gave me a measurement to take over to the new pipe 9

This second bend, also had an offset angle. I copied this the best I could by overlaying the old pipe on the new while it was in the bender

After the second bend, the pipe could be measured and cut to allow fitting of the first banjo

The second length of pipe was a straight piece between the banjo fittings, with a 360° loop to allow for movement

10

11

12

The loop defied my 180° pipe benders so a bit of creativity was called for, with a half decent result

All the bits were loosely fitted together with the banjos turned to provide as close to the correct angle as we could by eye

Using oxyacetylene, the banjos were silver soldered in place, after a final check that all angles were correct

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13

14

15

Back on the boat, the parts was loosely installed to allow for final bending and trimming

The fuel pump end of the pipe was then fitted with its union and the end flared

Finally the pipe was connected to the pump and all fittings tightened, having first installed new washers on the banjo bolts

After bolting it all back together, and reconnecting the throttle cable, I was ready to connect some fuel and find out if the engine would run. Did it? I have no idea, unfortunately. I literally run out of time this month, so as we go to print I really don’t know the answer. I blame the clocks going back and the early dark nights, and it is hugely frustrating, but having waited this long, a couple more weeks is not going to kill me. As soon as

this issue is published I will be there, fuel in hand and ready to give it a go. I expect there will be quite a bit of fine tuning to the carbs and the engine’s ignition system to get it to fire and run smoothly, and in the next issue you may well be reading all about trouble shooting a non-starting petrol engine, but one thing is for sure.

This time next month the waiting will be over and both you and I will know. I’m actually quite apprehensive. MBO

Spend so far

Motorboat Owner

PROJECT BOAT This month’s spend

Copper pipe £3.79 Two banjo fittings £6.60 Compression fitting £3.00

Balance from last month

The last part of the job was to connect up the throttle cable to the carburettor linkage

£2,170.03

Total to date: £2,183.42

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CLASSIC CRUISERS

a complete guide to the best boats on the used market

Fairline Phantom 38/41

S

tumbling upon a 1991 Fairline Phantom 38 Mk1 priced at £80k, MBO decided to delve deep into the archives to find out more about Fairline’s first fully-fledged Phantom flybridge.

The nineties were a prolific era for the flybridge cruiser, it saw the two British manufacturers, Princess and Fairline, go head to head in creating a long line of shaftdriven, sub 40ft flybridges. There was one key designer behind all these, this was, of course, Bernard Olesinski.

Fairline’s first flybridge came along in the 1970s, it was the iconic and simply-

named 40. The same era brought the sunbridge-style Phantom 32, which was the first boat to carry the 60s British fighter jet name, Phantom, a name that derived from Fairline’s much-celebrated MD and ex-RAF pilot, Sam Newington.

The 80s delivered two more important icons, Olesinski’s first Fairline design, the Targa 33, and the ‘Solent Sierra’ 36 Turbo.

There was, of course, the 36 Sedan and Corniche in the mix as well. However, with Olesinski producing more and more shaftdriven flybridges for rival Princess, such as the Princess 388, it was time for

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Built approx 80 1990-1994 Prices then £157,889 (1991) Prices now £79,000-£100,000 Length 42ft 3in / 12.88m Beam 13ft 6in / 4.11m Draught 3ft 4in / 1.02m Air Draught 13ft 9in / 4.19m Fuel 240 gallons/ 1091 litres Water 116 gallons/ 527 litres Displacement 10000kg approx

Fairline to get in on the action.

Launching in 1989, the 41 Mk1 was the result. The 44ft model was a shaft-driven flybridge cruiser offering a two-ensuitecabin layout rivaling that of the Princess 388, but it had some new modern features such as a built-in bathing platform and transom gate. In a similar style but smaller scale, next came the sharp-looking Corsica 35. However, keen to fill the gap between existing models, the Sedan 36 and the 41 Mk1, Fairline resurrected the ‘Phantom’ name and unveiled the new Phantom 38 at the 1990 Southampton Boat Show.

Priced from £154k, the 42ft 38 had the same styling and features as its new age Fairline flybridge siblings, and was almost identical in layout to the 41 Mk1.

Up until that point Fairline’s flybridge model names had referred to hull length instead of length overall. Then, confusingly, there was a change of tack by the British company, with a decision to ‘switch up’ several models to represent their true LOA. In September 1992, the Phantom 38 model was relaunched as the Phantom 41 and albeit with a few changes, namely the inclusion of two

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distinctive horizontal ports in its saloon superstructure and larger engines, it remained the same boat. This move also saw the 41 Mk1, with is characteristic slanted saloon ports, re-badged as the 43, and this is why it is often referred to as the 41/43. Other subsequent flybridge models that followed the same evolutionary path were the 43, becoming the 45, now known as the 43/45 and the 35 Corsica becoming the 37 Corsica, then the Phantom 37.

Production of the model, now referred to as the Phantom 38/41, lasted for four years until June 1994. One factory production worker at the time told MBO that two and a half of these boats were being built a month, therefore we would

guess-timate there to be in the region of 80-90 Phantom 38/41s built.

Interior Stepping aboard this flybridge it is easy to forget that you are on a 42 footer. At over 13ft wide, you slide back the centreopening patio doors and are greeted by an extremely wide and exceptionally spacious saloon area. The lofty ones amongst us will also be grateful of the impressive 6ft 4in headroom too. On the starboard side is a welcoming and comfortable, shallow L-shaped settee. Capable of seating four to five people around the heavy adjustable table with two additional stools, this area often converts into a berth with a double mattress hidden in the setteeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ply base. To

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port is a sideboard storage unit providing three large cupboards, one of which may house an optional second fridge, normally a 61-litre Engel. One owner had modified the unit to disguise an electronicallylifting, large LCD TV. Above the sideboard, in the stylish angled flybridge moulding, the 38 has a useful storage cupboard, while the 41 has two cylindrical horizontal ports which provide a bit more saloon light. Further forward, a curvedfronted unit protrudes out, dividing the

galley and saloon area. Lifting its hatch lid reveals a drinks cabinet, with a Perspex slotted storage area for bottles and glasses, plus a chopping board inside its lid.

Two steps lead up to the raised lower helm position on the starboard side. The well-engineered helm console sees an oval-shaped dash displaying engine and tank dials, while immediately ahead of the helmsman is a full width angled panel incorporating the steering wheel, other steering/navigational aids and space for

Storage in lieu of seating. The 38/41 has a saloon sideboard with a drinks cabinet and optional fridge Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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an 8-10 inch chartplotter. Switches are within easy reach along the top edge of this. There is also a large format, clear Perspex-topped chart storage area ahead of the co-pilot. At the helm there is a nonadjustable bench-style double helm seat with storage cupboards in its base. There is an extremely generous footwell area with the main electrics switch panel in

the console base. Visibility out through the three-pane windscreen and across the foredeck is very good, with a sliding side window for ventilation.

Moving down three steps leads to the very spacious galley area. An L-shaped worktop incorporates two round metal sinks, a slotted storage area for crockery and a three or four-burner hob with plenty

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38 1991 £79,950 (featured) Twin Volvo TAMD61A diesels Clarke & Carter 01621 785600 www.clarkeandcarter.co.uk

41 1992 £99,995 (featured) Twin Volvo TAMD61A diesels Southampton Waters 02380 634900 www.southamptonwaters.co.uk The day loo is an excellent size and offers a shower

of workspace between. The worktop is quite high, so one owner had created a raised floor panel for this. Below the worktop is another large capacity fridge, usually an 89-litre Engel, a gas oven and grill, a pull-out rubbish bin and plenty of storage, with a large shelved cupboard, drawers and various lockers. No space has been wasted above too, with a useful bank of cupboards at eye-level. Gas was fitted as standard and, on the example viewed, a microwave had been positioned under saloon/ galley cabinets. All electric versions have an electric hob and microwave below this.

Another small step leads down into a cabin lobby area. The door immediately to starboard leads into an impressively-proportioned guest side cabin. Ideal for family use, this offers

41 1992 €90,000 Twin Volvo TAMD72A diesels Marina Marbella Spain +34 952 777098 www.marinamarbella.co.uk

41 1994 €119,000 Twin Volvo TAMD62A diesels Az Yachting Germany 03327 56 99 110 www.az-yachting.de

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A divided WC. The master ensuite has a useful separate shower/toilet stall

twin berths, a full length hanging locker, ensuite access to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;day looâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and excellent headroom of just over 6ft. A slightly raised, two-drawer bedside unit between the 2ft wide berths prevents the cabin from being adapted into a double. Under berth hatches provide access to the unlined hull and we noted some fixings for vinyl storage buckets which could be replicated in GRP. A holding tank is usually housed under the port bunk.

A couple of eye level cupboards provide much needed storage in this cabin.

Moving into the day loo, this single compartment offers slightly reduced headroom at 5ft 10in but is really quite spacious and very well appointed. A moulded worktop extends along the forward bulkhead and incorporates a wash basin, the shower control and a storage locker below. A sea toilet, often electric, is concealed under a moulded shower seat, and above this is

88

November 2020

a mirrored cupboard. A fabric curtain protects the woodwork of the two doors when showering, and the shower water drains around the raised floor panel.

The forward master cabin is a comfortable space. It offers a rather large double island berth, at 6ft 6in long and just short of 5ft wide, at a good accessible level with steps either side if necessary.

There is also a decent amount of storage in here, with a three-quarter length hanging locker, a vanity area to starboard, eye-level cupboards above the bed and two wide drawers in the bed base. Its ensuite toilet compartment is fully GRP lined and is divided into two sections, both offering 6ft of headroom. The farthest section being a curtained shower area with a sea toilet, again with a moulded seat cover, while the nearest and darkest part of the compartment has a washbasin with decent storage in lockers above and below it.

All bulkheads are timber which were faced with a choice of two interior wood

finishes, natural ash or teak, the latter being most common.

Flybridge A wooden-rung ladder leads up through a hinged GRP ‘trap door’ and onto the flybridge. The flybridge itself provides a double helm seat with a reversing back rest and an L-shaped bench seat aft. An additional starboard forward-facing seat doubles as a sunlounger with a hinging backrest. The flybridge is encircled by a Perspex windscreen and decent-height rails, the latter being usually enclosed by canvas dodgers for added wind and rogue spray protection. The swept back solid radar arch is also well out of harm’s way and is equipped with a radar dome and single vertical light mast.

The full-width helm console is fairly traditional and symmetrical in its form.

It provides a central steering position set within a semi-covered, recessed dash area.

Engine dials, start switches and possibly

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

89

Access to the flybridge may be by a conventional ladder but there is plenty of seating and space aloft

speed and depth logs are under a hinging Perspex cover, while the lower half of the dash is dedicated to trim control, steering and navigational aids, with space to flush mount an 8-inch or so chartplotter to the left of the wheel. Sadly, storage at the helm, and indeed on the flybridge generally, is lacking, and only available inside the forward-facing seat bases. There is, of course, open storage available under the aft seating.

A flybridge tonneau cover is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;must haveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; but is often a nuisance to many owners, being difficult to fit and costly to replace. If fitted, ensure that this is in good condition and tight enough to prevent any water gathering. With the flybridge being self-draining, individual protective covers

for the helm console, wheel and seating are also useful additions to look for.

On deck Out in the secure-feeling, partiallycovered aft cockpit, L-shaped corner settees either side of a centre transom gate provide ample social seating for 3-4 people. Under these are deep, moulded lockers, with a dedicated, two 4.5kg cylinder, gas storage area on the port side.

There are also useful tall, shelved lockers in the side deck mouldings. Under the cockpit floor is a substantial lazarette locker, capable of swallowing a number of large items such as a roll-away tender and fenders. Here you will also find the boats calorifier, which incidentally runs off the

A cockpit lazarette provides full width storage. Twin cylinder gas setup in a dedicated cockpit locker 90

November 2020

port engine. Ensure the lazarette has a suitable gas strut for safe and easy use of this fantastic space.

Access onboard is via the side decks or the bathing platform. However, substantial integral â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hipsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mean the bathing platform route is not the easiest when alongside, and best when stern to. Out on the bathing platform a bathing ladder is disguised under a central hatch, a shower is recessed into the transom and metalframed mouldings provide fender storage.

Steps next to the cockpit seating lead

out onto the 10-inch wide side decks that feature a short sloping section. Used to boost internal volume, the slope could catch you off guard, but luckily there are sturdy guardrails, and grabrails along the roof, for added security. Forward, a practical, flat and featureless raised foredeck with protruding cabin vents stylishly narrows and converges with the side decks at the bow, where there is a protruding anchor gypsy and a deep chain locker to starboard. You will note that there is space for fenders in here, but

Modern features, a built in bathing platform and transom gate. It has a secure, flat foredeck Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

91

without a separation bulkhead from the chain these are likely to get tangled.

High quality, stainless steel-framed windows were fitted as standard to the Phantom 38 and 41, but it is advisable to inspect their rubber seals for shrinkage, which could lead to interior leaks, particularly under the windscreen.

Hull and Handling Fairline has an excellent reputation for high build quality. The Phantom 38/41

has a medium vee hull with a 19-degree deadrise aft. A deep vee forward provides a soft entry into head seas. Its hull has full length spray deflectors and a chine knuckle, while its propshafts are recessed into tunnels to increase efficiency, reducing the shaft angle and therefore draft, which is just 1.02 metres.

Its trim tabs are also cleverly recessed into dedicated mouldings. All of which make the boat capable in a wide range of conditions and provide reassuring

Olesinski elements. The 38/41 has a v-shaped hull that was designed to be efficient and capable 92

November 2020

Access to the port engine and centre inspection area is excellent. TAMD61As fitted to a 91 model

seakeeping. It was described by one owner as ‘strong and very seaworthy’.

The model has a distinctive slanted metal grid grate in its engine vents and a stainless steel rubbing strake was fitted as standard to both the Phantom 38 and 41.

be in the region of one mile per gallon, and for this it should be happy and most economical cruising in the low 20s.

Two huge, overlapping saloon floor hatches provide access to the engines and the engine bay in its entirety. Lifting the metal-edged port hatch, with its Engines support stand, reveals the corresponding Initially the Phantom 38 was marketed as engine and a large central inspection having just the one engine option, twin grate. Unfortunately, the starboard hatch 306hp Volvo Penta TAMD61As. These and engine is slightly less accessible and should provide a 20-22 knot cruising involves the removal of much of the settee speed and a top speed, unladen, in the and its plywood bases, which may well be region of 28 knots. However, by 1993/94 in use for storage or a mattress. Luckily larger engines were available, namely the port hatch is enough for day-to-day 330hp Volvo Penta TAMD62As and 430hp engine checks, with the starboard access TAMD72As, giving improved top speeds only necessary when overhead access to of up to 32 knots. It seems Fairline was water and oil caps is needed for servicing also offering a number of diesel Caterpillar and winterising. engine options, which seem to have With no ladder it is quite a drop down appealed to overseas buyers. MBO found onto the wide, central tread-plated area. several versions for sale in the Med and in On the TAMD61 example viewed, there foreign waters with Caterpillars, including was ample width to stand and crouch twin 350hp 3116 engines and 425hp down between the engines, reach over 3208s, offering in excess of 32 knots. the top of the engines and, if you are Regardless of engine size, we would small and slim, even get around them expect this boats fuel consumption to if required. The raw water filters are Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

93

mounted on the forward bulkhead, while the dipsticks are readily accessible on each side of the inspection area and the batteries are aft in a GRP box. Outside of the engines lie the 120-gallon ‘marine grade alloy’ fuel tanks. The boat’s battery shut offs and fuel changeover system can be found on the forward bulkhead of the lazarette, while aft in this storage area is access to the steering system. The boat’s large fuel filters may also be on the lazarette bulkhead or inside the engine bay itself. Be aware the engine bay was originally fitted Halon fire extinguishers.

Whilst these are very effective they are now banned, and would also be very out of date, so buyers will need to consider safe disposal and suitable replacement, if still fitted.

Always check that regular servicing and maintenance has been carried out, and

maybe consider negotiating a service into the deal if one is due. With oil, and service items, such as belts, readily available, it is possible for those who are practicallyminded to take on the service elements and any maintenance themselves. Volvo Penta engines, of this era in particular, are highly regarded, much sought after and widely accepted as being easy to work on.

Conclusion Albeit a little dated and costly to run, for £80-£100k, this is a quality, two-cabin flybridge boat and a huge amount of boat for the money.

Perfect for distance cruising forays, it would make a comfortable family boat, or palatial pad for a couple with occasional guests.

Before buying any used boat, always employ the services of a IIMS or a YDSA accredited surveyor and, if you have any doubt about the engines, a separate engine survey by a suitably qualified person is recommended.

Family Phantom 40

2002-2009

Prices £140,000-£220,000 Length: 41ft 1in Beam: 12ft 3in Arguably Fairline’s best ever 40ft flybridge to date, providing style, comfort and power.

Buy one (pictured) 2009 £189,950 www.red-ensign.com

35 Corsica

1989-1996

Prices £49,000-£70,000 Length: 38ft 3in Beam: 12ft 4in Stylish two-cabin flybridge that evolved to the 37 Corsica, which became the Phantom 37.

Buy one (pictured) 1990 £65,000 www.portsolent.boatshed.com

Squadron 43

1994-1997

Prices £90,000-£120,000 Length: 44ft 5in Beam: 13ft 7in The smallest in the range but every bit the luxury Squadron, offering two ensuite cabins.

Buy one (pictured) 1995 £99,950 www.boats.co.uk

94

November 2020

2007 Jeanneau Prestige 42 £ 155,000 VAT paid

2021 Parker 850 Voyager £ 133,685 VAT inc

1996 Sunseeker Manhattan 46/48 £ 129,9500 VAT paid

EB3676

PARK850V

EB3726

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

2021 Parker 920 Explorer MAX £ 125,667 VAT paid

2007 Doral Boca Grande £ 109,950 VAT paid

1995 Fairline Squadron 43 £ 99,950 VAT paid

ENPA19

EB3698

EB3632

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

2019 Falcon 650 RIB £ 48,950 VAT paid

2017 Beneteau Flyer 7.7 Spacedeck £ 44,950 VAT paid

2008 Glastron GT249 £29,950 VAT paid

ES3794

EB3760

ES3806

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

2016 Williams Sport Jet 400 £ 24,950 VAT paid

2021 Kawasaki Ultra 310R £ 18,599 VAT inc

EB3672

ENK17

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

1996 Master Craft Prostar 190 £ 14,950 VAT paid Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Q! XH E S S UR E O T EA N SIT O S BOAT ES3742

E&OE

HQ: 01702 258 885 Poole: 01202 797 777 Cala d'Or: +34 971 643 353

Open 7 days a week.

Email: info@boats.co.uk

Essex: 01702 258 885 - essex@boats.co.uk Poole: 01202 797 777 - poole@boats.co.uk

200

OFFSHORE POWERBOATS LTD Exclusive UK, Channel Island & Ireland agents for Nimbus & Paragon Yachts.

Approved & Preferred Axopar Boats UK dealer since 2014.

NIMBUS 320 COUPE 2005 £89,950 VAT Paid Fowey

NIMBUS C9 2019

NIMBUS WEEKENDER 9 2018

PRO FISH 660 2018

QUICKSILVER 555 CABIN 2018

£145,000 VAT Paid Lymington

£27,500 VAT Paid Lymington

£128,750 VAT Paid Dartmouth

£22,500 VAT Paid Lymington

NIMBUS WEEKENDER 9 2020 £148,500 VAT Paid Lymington

RIBEYE 785S 2011 £33,000 VAT Paid Lymington

Offshore Powerboats Ltd Lymington Yacht Haven, Kings Saltern Road, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 3QD +44 (0) 1590 677955 / enquiries@offshorepowerboats.co.uk / www.offshorepowerboats.co.uk

New and Used

Boats for Sale 01189 403211

Creative Marine / Frolic 21 Pretty launch, Torqeedo electric engine, new batteries & cover

Call our friendly team to arrange an appointment to view any of the used boats for sale below – or visit our website for this month’s complete range www.valwyattmarine.co.uk

Interboat / 19

Perfect day boat with seating for 8, teak floor, sundeck infill, bimini

Corsiva / Coaster 640 SC

Stylish boat with planing hull, teak effect floor, only 12 hours

NEW Interboat / 19

NEW Due Spring 2021, Esthec floor, teak table, bimini

2012 | £15,000 | 21ft | 6.4m

2002 | £22,000 | 19ft | 6m

2019 | £31,000 | 20.3ft | 6.2m

Interboat / 25

NEW Interboat / Intender 820

Intercruiser / 28 Cabrio

Haines / 32 Sedan

2006 | £47,500 | 25ft | 7.9m

2021 | €85,720 | 26.6ft | 8.1m

2013 | £95,000 | 28ft | 8.5m

2019 | £210,000 | 32ft | 9.8m

Elegant & spacious day boat, bow thruster, sink, toilet & fridge

Due 2021 Stunning boat with black blue hull, upgraded upholstery

Lightly used weekend cruiser, two berths, heating & inverter

FROM

£382,410 400 AFT CABIN

PRICE AS AT 1 APRIL 2020 EX WORKS, INC 20% VAT ST

British built since 1980

2021 | €47,098 | 19ft | 6m

Luxurious cruiser with double island berth, thrusters, heating

FROM

INTENDER 820

£49,770

PRICE AS AT 1ST FEBRUARY 2020 EX WORKS, INC 20% VAT

Premium Dutch Quality

Enjoy the life you live www.valwyattmarine.co.uk | 01189 403211 | info@valwyattmarine.co.uk Val Wyatt Marine, Willow Marina, Willow Lane, Wargrave, Berkshire, RG10 8LH

New Boats | Used Craft | Moorings | Maintenance | Coffee Shop

Owners Directory i Arvor Boat Owners Club

Dawncraft Owners Club & Forum

www.arvorboatowners.co.uk

www.dawncraftowners.com

Aquastar Owners Club

Dell Quay Ranger website

www.aquastarclub.co.uk

www.dellquayranger.supanet.com

Atlanta Boat Owners

Electric Boat Association

www.atlantaboats.co.uk

www.electric-boat-association.org.uk

Bavaria Owners’ Association

Elysian Boat Owners

www.bavariaowners.co.uk

www.elysianboats.co.uk

Bayliner Owners Club

Fairey Owners Club

www.baylinerownersclub.org

www.faireyownersclub.co.uk

Beneteau Owners’ Association

Fairline Owners Club

www.beneteau-owners-association.org.uk

www.fairlineownersclub.com

Birchwood Classics

Fjord Club

www.birchwoodclassics.com

www.fjordclub.com

Broom Owners Club

Fletcher Owners Group

www.broomowners.com

www.facebook.com/groups/4011883149

Chaparral Boat Owners Forum

Freeman Cruisers Forum

forum.chaparralboats.com

freemanboats.forumer.com

Classic Motor Boat Association

Freeman Owners Club

www.cmba-uk.com

www.freemancruisers.com

Classic Offshore Powerboat Club

Freeman Cruisers

www.classicoffshore.com

freeman-cruisers.forumotion.co.uk

Cleopatra Owners Club

Haines Owners Club

mycleopatra.ning.com

www.hainesmarine.co.uk/owners.php

Coronet Cruisers

Hampton Safari Boat Club

freespace.virgin.net/simon.sherlock/index.htm

hamptonsafaribc.webplus.net

Corvette Motorboat Association

Hardy Owners Club

corvettemotorboat.wordpress.com

Cranchi Owners Club & Forum cranchiownersclub.com

98

www.hardy-owner.org.uk

Jeanneau Owners Network

www.jeanneau-owners.com

November 2020

Owners Club missing?

Contact us at

Marex Owners Club

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Sea Ray Owners Club

www.clubsearay.com

www.marexownersclub.co.uk

Sealine Forum

Mariah Owners Club www.mariahownersclub.com

www.sealineforum.co.uk

Maxum Owners Club

Sealine Owners Club

www.maxumownersclub.com

www.sealineowners.com

Microplus Boats

Seamaster Club

www.microplus.dk

www.seamasterclub.org

Monterey Fourm

Seaward Owners Club

forums.montereyboats.com

www.seawardboat.com/club.html

Moonraker Owner’s Club

Shadow Boats - Victoria Shadow Association

www.moonraker.dk/eng_index.htm

www.victoriashadow.co.uk

Nauticus

Shetland Owners Association

www.nauticus.co.uk

www.shetlandowners.co.uk/shetland/

Nelson Boat Owners Club

Star Craft Owners Club

www.nelsonboatownersclub.co.uk

www.bates-starcraft.co.uk

Nimbus Owners Club UK

Storebro Passion

www.nimbusowners.co.uk

www.storebropassion.de

Norman Appreciation Society

Sunseeker Owners Club

www.normanboats.co.uk

sunseekerownersclub.com

Classic Princess facebook group

Viking Owners Club

Click here for Facebook group

www.vikingowners.org.uk

Regal Owners Forum

Warrior Boats Owners Club

www.warriorboatsownersclub.co.uk

www.regalownersforum.com

Relcraft Boaters Group

Advertise with us

www.relcraftboatersgroup.co.uk

Rinker Owners Club www.rinkerboats.com/owners-club

Rodman Owners Club

www.facebook.com/rodmanownersclub

Classified adverts from £25

advertising@

motorboatowner.co.uk Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

2018 Quicksilver 555 Cabin

£22,500 01590 677955 email address

99

Classified

2017 Corsiva 500 Tender

Single Mercury 20hp. 16ft dayboat ideal for inland cruising. Social seating for five people, rope fendering, central helm, integral transom and bathing platform.

Teak floor, upgraded upholstery

£17,500

01189 403211 info@valwyattmarine.co.uk

2016 RibX Xp700 Rsr

Single Evinrude E-Tec 150HP (2008) outboard engine. 7-metre RIB with four jockey seats and bow seating/ storage. Garmin chartplotter, stainless arch, two-wheeled trailer.

£24,950

01702 258885 sales@boats.co.uk

Motorboat Owner Affordable practical boating

Seamaster 30

An aft cockpit-wheelhouse cruiser, based on Seamaster 30 hull. Fitted with a single reconditioned Perkins 135hp shaftdrive diesel. Autopilot, bowthruster, hydraulic steering, electric anchor winch. Four-berth, quick sale required.

£5,500

01702 332040

New and Used

Boats for Sale

Advertisement Index

01189 403211

2021 Parker 920 Explorer max £ 125,667 VAT inc

2007 Doral Boca Grande £ 109,950 VAT paid

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

PARK920

EB3698

1995 Fairline Squadron 43 £ 99,950 VAT paid

2010 Ribtec 1050 Cabin Rib Gt2 £ 99,950 VAT paid

1994 Carver 390 £ 77,950 VAT paid

2018 Parker 800 Pilothouse £ 69,950 VAT paid

EB3325

EB786

ENPA04

2015 Beneteau Antares 8.80 £ 64,950 VAT paid Essex Marina, United Kingdom EB3729

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Perfect day boat with seating for 8, teak floor, sundeck infill, bimini

Stylish boat with planing hull, teak effect floor, only 12 hours

Corsiva / Coaster 640 SC

NEW Interboat / 19

2002 | £22,000 | 19ft | 6m

2019 | £31,000 | 20.3ft | 6.2m

2021 | €47,098 | 19ft | 6m

• • • • • • •

Frozen engines can cost £££’s to replace!

Real-time shore power loss alert (& power restore) Plug in and remotely control anything e.g. dehumidifier Plug and play (easy set up >5 mins all done by text message) Smart not650 required can send text!) Launch 25 2019phone Falcon RIB (use any phone that2006 Chrisa Craft SIM required (use any network except Three) £ card 49,950 VAT paid £ 49,950 VAT paid Salterns Pooletemperature alerts!

Essex Marina, United Kingdom Also sendsMarina, real time ES3794

Mains Power Lost!

30C

ES3813

RRP £150 MBO OFFER £115 (inc vat & FREE UK delivery) To order call 0203 176 3094 and quote ‘MBO115’

2014 Capelli Tempest 770 S £ 42,950 VAT paid

2008 Glastron Gt249 £ 29,950 VAT paid

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

EB3630

ES3806

Interboat / 25

NEW Interboat / Intender 820

100

NEW Due Spring 2021, Esthec floor, teak table, bimini

Haines / 32 Sedan

Due 2021 Stunning boat with black blue hull, upgraded upholstery

Lightly used weekend cruiser, two berths, heating & inverter

Luxurious cruiser with double island berth, thrusters, heating

2021 | €85,720 | 26.6ft | 8.1m

2013 | £95,000 | 28ft | 8.5m

2019 | £210,000 | 32ft | 9.8m

FROM

£382,410 400 AFT CABIN

PRICE AS AT 1ST APRIL 2020 EX WORKS, INC 20% VAT

British built since 1980

FROM

INTENDER 820

£49,770

PRICE AS AT 1ST FEBRUARY 2020 EX WORKS, INC 20% VAT

Premium Dutch Quality

www.tekview-solutions.com

1991 Sunseeker Martinique 36 £ 25,950 VAT paid EB3853

F ON O ECTI A SEL

OF 100's

E ABL VAIL TS A BOA

Essex: 01702 258 885 - essex@boats.co.uk Poole: 01202 797 777 - poole@boats.co.uk

Boats.co.uk........................................................................................

British Boat Club...............................................................................

Henley Boat Club (Hobbs of Henley).............................................

JC Marine Service............................................................................

MDS Battery.......................................................................................

Offshore Powerboats..........................................................................

Parker Poland.....................................................................................

Premier Agapi Boat Club...................................................................

Saxdor Yachts/Ideal Boat................................................................

Seabridge Marine..............................................................................

Selva Marine......................................................................................

Tekview Solutions.............................................................................

Tingdene Boat Sales.........................................................................

Val Wyatt Marine..............................................................................

Vetus..................................................................................................

XO Boats/Ideal Boat.........................................................................

Yacht Havens.....................................................................................

Intercruiser / 28 Cabrio

Elegant & spacious day boat, bow thruster, sink, toilet & fridge

2006 | £47,500 | 25ft | 7.9m

Essex Marina, United Kingdom E&OE

Open 7 days a week.

Email: info@boats.co.uk

Interboat / 19

Essex Marina, United Kingdom

Don’t Let Your Engine Freeze This Winter Powertxt® Sends a Real Time Shore Power Loss Text Alert

Salterns Marina, Poole

HQ: 01702 258 885 Poole: 01202 797 777 Cala d'Or: +34 971 643 353

Pretty launch, Torqeedo electric engine, new batteries & cover

2012 | £15,000 | 21ft | 6.4m

Creative Marine / Frolic 21

South Coast

Call our friendly team to arrange an appointment to view any of the used boats for sale below – or visit our website for this month’s complete range www.valwyattmarine.co.uk

Essex Marina, United Kingdom EB3632

Enjoy the life you live www.valwyattmarine.co.uk | 01189 403211 | info@valwyattmarine.co.uk Val Wyatt Marine, Willow Marina, Willow Lane, Wargrave, Berkshire, RG10 8LH

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Penton rainbow

Thames rainbow and an autumnal view SPOTTED! by Sue Howell, TBS Boats Penton

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Scenic Seaton

Autumn sunshine at Axmouth Harbour, Devon SPOTTED! by Sue Sharp Motorboat Owner

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102

November 2020

PRACTICAL

WINTERISING GUIDE: APPENDIX

HOW TO

Winterise

YOUR BOAT www.stuhaynes.co.uk

W interising is the act of protecting your

boat and its equipment and contents from the ravages of the winter weather. Failing to carry out any preparation for winter can result in expensive damage to the engine, domestic water system and even your soft furnishings. The requirement to carry out any winterising will depend largely on whether you keep your boat in fresh water or salt and how far north you are in the UK. If you keep your boat in fresh water I would say that it is almost imperative to carry out some basic

If we get another winter like this, will your boat be protected? winterising. With salt water the need isn’t quite so great because salt water freezes at a lower temperature than fresh, typically around –2°C. Damage is caused by water expanding as it freezes, and this expansion can crack even a solid iron engine block.

I know that many people on the south coast who keep their boat in salt water do not carry out any winterising at all, and for the most part will get away with it,

First published December 2013, updated Oct 20 Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

1

PRACTICAL

Paul & Sandra Field

but is not unheard of for damage to occur even here, so I would suggest a little bit of preventative work is well worth doing to save the worry and, even remote possibility, of a large repair bill.

The complete process of winterising and protecting the boat can be broken down into a number of different jobs. The most important is winterising the engine as this is where the most expensive damage can occur. Next comes the domestic water system which, because it is full of fresh water, is the most prone to damage when the temperature dips. Although tales of engine damage are thankfully quite rare, possibly because most owners do take some precautions, stories of damage to the boats freshwater supply are far more common and I have personally been caught out with this one. Next comes the interior of the boat. There are some simple steps to take to ensure the soft furnishings see it through the winter unscathed. You can simply take them home and store them, you can ensure the boat has good ventilation to keep mildew at bay or you can go the high tech route and use some form of dehumidifier. The last section is the boats exterior. It is a good idea to give the boat a wash and a coat of good quality wax at the beginning of winter as it will protect the gelcoat from airbourne contaminates and any UV over winter, meaning re-commissioning in spring should require nothing more than a quick wash and a recoat of wax.

While you are on the boat and in your work clothes you may want to consider carry out some servicing. This is not strictly winterising but fits in well with it and will, in a small way, help to protect the

Damage. Freezing water can split metal, this is a damaged tap, but it could be your engine

boat over winter. A freshly serviced engine means that the boat is ready to go in the spring, it has nice clean oil protecting the engineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inner workings, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great opportunity to use up your existing engine spares and order some new ones for next season, but most importantly, it gives you lots of time to deal with any problems that might show up during a service. The sort of thing we are referring to is finding water in your outdrive oil, or worse still in your engine oil. Find a problem like this in the spring and you will be hard pressed to secure the services of a decent engineer as this is their busiest time, so you are likely to start eating into your season while waiting for repairs. Find a problem before Christmas and, expense aside, getting the repair carried out should be painless and most importantly, completed in time for the start of next season.

So, how do you winterise a boat? Simply follow the steps detailed on the next few pages, or at least the ones that are relevant to your boat, and you can relax knowing that regardless of what mother nature throws at us in the coming months, your boat will remain safe and serviceable as soon as spring has sprung.

2 First published December 2013, updated Oct 20

HOW TO IN 9 STEPS

PART 1

The Engine

If your engine is fresh water cooled the block itself should be protected with antifreeze already, so you just need to displace the raw water that is trapped in the heat exchangers with an antifreeze mixture. Raw water engines will need an antifreeze solution run right through the engine so will need running up to temperature first.

1

On a freshwater cooled engine the captive antifreeze mix should be changed every two years. Change it, or if it not due, check the strength to ensure it is up to the job

2

Mix a solution of antifreeze and water at a ratio of 1:1.

Around five litres of mixture is usually enough per engine so a 5 litre container of antifreeze should be enough for most twin engine boats

4

On a stern drive boat you have a choice of feeding the antifreeze mix through the leg via a set of muffs, or by removing an inlet pipe inside the boat. Check first that the hose is not below the waterline if still afloat

3

5

6

Outboards often have a flushing port which you can use to introduce an antifreeze mix. Alternatively use a pair of muffs or simply lower the leg into a container filled with an antifreeze mix

Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

On a shaftdrive boat close the seacock and remove the raw water strainer cap. Pour the mix into the strainer with the engine running and shut the engine off just as the mix runs out

Antifreeze is toxic so it should not be allowed to enter the water or soak into the ground. Try and catch the expelled antifreeze mix in a bucket. If this is not possible consider using nontoxic polyethylene glycol

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7

8

An alterative to inhibiting an engine with antifreeze is to drain it. Check your ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manual for the drain points on your engine and follow the instructions carefully to ensure you remove all of the raw water

Once the engine is inhibited remove the impeller and store it for the winter to reduce distortion. Replace the pump faceplate if the boat is staying afloat to reduce the chance of water entering the engine room

9

Place a sign on the helm to advise that the engine should not be started due to winterisation. This could also remind you to replace the impeller and open the seacock if required

HOW TO IN 9 STEPS

PART 2

Domestic water systems

As previously mentioned the domestic water system is most prone to frost damage. You can inhibit it with a non-toxic antifreeze but we recommend simply emptying the system completely to remove any threat of expansion damage.

1

Drain your domestic water tank to remove as much water as possible by running a tap. There will always be a small amount of water remaining in the bottom of the tank but this wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cause a problem

2

Remove the connections from your domestic water pump. Using a dinghy pump blow back through the inlet hose to ensure there is no water trapped in the hose from the tank to the pump

3

Open one tap at a time and blow water through the pumps outlet pipe until only air comes out of the tap, then close the tap. Do this to each tap, both hot and cold not forgetting any cockpit or transom mounted taps

4 First published December 2013, updated Oct 20

4

Remove the water pump filter and empty any water trapped inside. This is also a good opportunity to clean the filter element. Now open all of the taps and leave them open

5

If your calorifier has a drain cock, open it and drain the last of the water out. If you have a gas water heater open the drain valve on this to empty it

7

Manual toilets should be pumped on the dry setting to remove any water from the pump body, as these have been known to crack when water inside freezes

6

8

If you have any shower sumps on board, ensure they are empty. If necessary remove the lid and mop it out. Again this is a good opportunity to clean the pump filter inside

9

To keep the seals and valves lubricated you could pour a little vegetable oil down the pan as you are excavating the water in step 7

If you have grey or black water tanks, pump them out and leave them as empty as possible.

Many owners like to bung up exhaust and ventilation ports. This is fine but make yourself a note to remove them in the spring.

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HOW TO IN 9 STEPS

PART 3

Other jobs

These jobs are really more a mixture of preventative maintenance, servicing and good practice rather than strictly winterising, but it makes good sense to consider doing them while you are on a roll.

1

Using a corrosion protection product, give the engines, mechanicals and any exposed electricals a good spray. You can also grease any movable linkages and squirt some grease into any grease points 4

A dehumidifier will help to keep the boat dry. You can use chemical ones if you have no power, but an electric version does a much better job. One with a built- in timer, set for 6 hours a day, will save

2

Diesel tanks can be filled to the brim, to reduce condensation problems, or left empty. Petrol fuel tanks are best left empty, or if this is impractical, add some fuel stabiliser to keep the fuel fresh 5

Change the engine oil, so that the internal components of the engine are coated in clean contaminant free lubricant.

It is also an opportunity to check for major problems such as water in the oil

3

A good coat of wax all over the boats exterior should help see it into the new season with a shine, and will certainly make the first wash of the year much easier

6

It’s the same with gearbox oil on sterndrive and outboard legs. It’s not uncommon to find water in here and you don’t want that water sloping around your gears all winter

6 First published December 2013, updated Oct 20

7

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8

Check your props for damage. Like good engineers, the people who refurbish propellers get very busy in spring, so get in early if required

Inspect your safety equipment. Items such as lifejackets, liferafts, PLBs, EPIRBs and fire fighting equipment all have service requirements. Winter is a good time to get this done

Check the electrolyte levels in your batteries, top up if required and ensure that the batteries are fully charged if they are going to be left idle for any length of time

What about leaving the boat in commission?

Q&A

If you are planning on using the boat throughout the winter, inhibiting the engine and domestic water supply after each use is going to be time consuming. The easiest thing to do with the domestic water system is simply drain it and not use it. Take bottled water on board and use the marina facilities. If you do need to use it, perhaps see if you can decommission the most susceptible parts such as transom and cockpit outlets. If you have reliable shorepower you can put some greenhouse tube heaters in the engine room to keep frost at bay and prevent engine damage. Rather than simply running them 24/7, plug them into a thermostat set at around 3°C Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

so that they only come on when the temperature is getting close to freezing.

You should consider blocking up the engine room vents too, to help keep any warmth in. Just remember to remove the plugs before starting up. If you are going to be reliant on electric to stop your boat from freezing, it is a good idea to invest in a shorepower monitor that will alert you if the power supply fails. The Powertxt from Tekview Ltd will not only alert you to a power loss, it will also monitor temperatures on board, alert you if they fall outside of the preset parameters and allow you to control an electrical item onboard, such as tube heaters. MBO readers can get ÂŁ35 off using code MBO115 at www.tekview-solutions.com

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ADVICE

Preparing for winter

BY ROD DANIEL ACII

With winter upon us we asked Rod Daniel, from online boat insurance company, Craftinsure.com, for some advice on keeping our boats safe over the coming months.

A fter a great summer for most, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

perhaps easy to forget the carnage caused by previous winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s storms and floods, particularly to boats left afloat.

Here is a timely reminder with advice to help reduce the risks of sinking and damage.

8

First published December 2014, updated Oct 2020

WINTERISING GUIDE: APPENDIX

Your Mooring If moored

to fixed jetties or similar, add extra mooring warps and consider using higher anchoring points not restricted by lower ones. Try and arrange for local boatyards or residents to keep mooring lines adjusted if you are not able to check the boat regularly. Take additional steps to reduce the risk of any part of the boat becoming trapped under a jetty, sill or similar obstruction as water levels rise.

Your Boat During periods of

heavy rain, check for accumulation of water in the bilges. This can lower freeboard to a critical point and even lead to the boat sinking if hull openings normally above the waterline become submerged. If you have loose fitting canopies and covers, try to prop them up to avoid low points where water can collect. The weight of this water can lower freeboard and can rip fixings and seams.

Loose covers should also be securely fastened. High winds in winter can often get underneath them resulting in extensive damage. Ensure drainage channels are

Rain water and snow can gather in sagging canopies. Try and check your boat regularly

kept clear of leaves and debris so that water doesn’t build up in cockpits and find its way below. Damp and mould can be rife in the winter months. Consider taking soft furnishing home, if you are not using the boat, to keep them dry and secure.

Don’t rely on automatic bilge pumps to prevent flooding. Failure can easily occur due to loss of battery charge or blockages.

If canopies or covers have been blown away or torn, erect temporary covers as soon as possible to prevent any further Leaves and muck can gather and block drainage ingress of water. Dinghies and small boats channels. Even if your boat is on a hardstanding need to be brought ashore and moved to this could cause problems if left higher ground.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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PRACTICAL

Equipment, bedding, cushions, tenders and outboards can be stored at home over the winter

Remove outboard motors to a secure building. If you are not going to be using the boat, consider removing any valuable kit and equipment. It’s not just the weather you need to be wary of during the long cold nights of winter. Opportunist thieves may see boats that are not being used as an easy target.

If freezing temperatures are predicted, ensure that the boat, and its engines, are correctly winterised. Damage caused by frost is only usually covered by insurance policies if the engine manufacturer’s recommendations for winterisation have

been fully complied with. If engines have been submerged, it’s essential to try and get these ashore, stripped down and first aid action applied to prevent corrosion.

Take specialist advice on how to dry out interiors and any removable items. Once the boat has been made secure, insurers will usually require an estimate for repairs, together with photographs of the damage.

Don’t dispose of any items until agreed with the insurer who may well appoint a marine surveyor to provide assistance, particularly if it’s apparent that the damage is extensive.

If you are not using your boat over the winter, winterising in preparation for cold weather is essential 10

First published December 2014, updated Oct 2020

Flooding If appropriate, sign up to the Environment Agency or other

information sites to ensure that you can be kept informed of any flood warnings.

Floodline Warnings Direct is a free service that provides flood warnings by telephone, email, SMS and fax. To sign up call 0845 988 1188 or go online to www.environment-agency.gov.uk, or in Scotland www.sepa.org.uk.

Emergencies & Making an Insurance Claim

Create an emergency numbers list in your mobile or keep by the phone. Include boatyard phone numbers and the claims helpline number for your insurer. If you do fall victim to the winter storms, contact your insurers as soon as possible to provide them with available information, and take whatever steps you safely can, in order to try and minimise the damage. The best initial advice is always to act as though you do not have insurance, as insurers will support you in taking any reasonable action that could mitigate a claim.

Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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WINTERISING GUIDE: APPENDIX

HOW TO

Winterising a portable outboard

YOU WILL NEED

A s winter approaches, most of us will

take some action to protect our boats and engines against damage caused by freezing temperatures and, at the end of this issue, we have added a supplement to help you do just that. However, many of us have another engine that deserves a little love at this time of year, especially if we want it to continue to provide trouble free service come the spring. We are, of course, referring to the humble, and often neglected, portable outboard.

Once you have safely put your boat and main propulsion engines to bed for the winter, dig out your tender outboard from wherever it is kept and devote just a couple 16

TOOLS • Spanners • Screwdrivers • Small bore hose to siphon fuel • Spark plug spanner • Grease gun CONSUMABLES • Fuel/2-stroke mix • Fuel stabiliser • 4-stroke engine oil • Antifreeze • Fogging oil • Grease • Anti Corrosion spray

DIFFICULTY RATING

ooooo of hours to it. Just follow our 15-point plan and, when you come to call on it again next season, you shouldn’t be plagued by poor starting or rough running.

First published November 2016, updated Oct 2020

HOW TO IN 15 STEPS

1

I start by mixing up a special winter fuel mix. This is a slightly more oily mix for 2 stroke (around 40:1) for extra internal protection, and some fuel stabilizer to help stop deposits forming in the carb 3

On a four stroke outboard, stop the engine once it has warmed up, drain the sump oil and replace with fresh. This is a good time to check the killcord is working correctly

2

Run the engine up in fresh water until it is at operating temperatures to flush salt out and to get the winter fuel/oil mix into the engine. On a two stroke engine turn off the fuel and allow the engine to run out and stop 4

A four stroke engine should then be started again to spread the fresh oil around before shutting off the fuel and allowing the motor to stop by running out of fuel

Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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PRACTICAL

5

As portable engines are usually stored out of the weather, freezing is not usually a problem. If yours is kept outside you could mix up some antifreeze and run the engine in this mixture during steps 1-4 7

If the engine has an internal fuel tank, drain the fuel out so that you can start next season with fresh. Modern petrol goes off very quickly and can cause starting and running problems in the spring if left in 18

6

Once the engine has stopped after running out of fuel, drain any remaining fuel from the carb bowl. This is done by undoing a, usually, easily accessible drain screw/bolt on the bottom of the bowl 8

Remove the spark plugs, which provide a good opportunity to assess their condition and decide if they need cleaning or replacement, and while out, squirt some fogging oil into the cylinder bores First published November 2016, updated Oct 2020

9

10

Then, with the plugs still out, pull the engine over a few times to spread the oil all around the cylinder before replacing the plugs and plug leads

Next, grease all linkages and moving parts under the cowl, and then spray the whole engine with a good quality anti-corrosion product

11

12

If there are any grease points on the outside of the outboard, notably around the swivel and tilt bracket, pump some fresh grease into these and manipulate the associated moving part to spread it around

Thumbscrew clamps are notorious for drying out and seizing due to the mix of stainless steel and aluminium. Keep them free with a coat of grease over the entire thread. Screw them in and out to spread the grease inside the bracket

Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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PRACTICAL

13

14

Check the propeller for damage. Don’t wait until spring to find out you need to get it repaired or replaced as the prop repairers will be very busy

Check for evidence of oil at the bottom of the propeller, where it meets the gearbox.

This might indicate a prop shaft seal that needs attention. Winter is a good time to do this (see MBO Oct 13), you could also change the gearbox oil as well (see MBO Aug 16 Project Outboard Part 9).

15

COST £ The only expenditure required is for consumables, many of which the average DIYer will already have in stock. The products I used cost: Sta-Bil fuel stabiliser £8.99, Quicksilver 4-stroke engine oil £9.75 ltr, Quicksilver Storage Seal fogging oil £16.99, Quicksilver 2-4C general purpose grease £9.99, Boeshield T9 corrosion spray £18.95

TIME TAKEN If your engine has an anode, check to see if it needs replacing. They are not usually required on an infrequently used outboard that is dry stored, but it doesn’t hurt to have one 20

It should only take around three hours to carry out all of the steps above. If you have a two stroke you will save the best part of an hour by not having to carry out an oil change.

First published November 2016, updated Oct 2020

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