FREE DIGITAL MAGAZINE
Motorboat DECEMBER 2020
Owner Affordable practical boating
BOAT TEST
Beneteau ST41 Used Boat Guide Troon l Choosing an inflatable l BOB Awards 2020
BROOM 39kl/395
Welcome to the December 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
Well that’s nearly it. The end of 2020 is in sight and I for one will be glad to see the back of it. It has not been a brilliant year to be a boat owner and I don’t think there has been a year since I bought my first boat that I have recorded so few hours in the logbook. A couple of stolen weekends between lockdowns and restrictions is about the best I could do. I am hoping to sneak at
Editor, Neale Byart 01268 922992 neale@motorboatowner.co.uk Associate Editor, Claire Frew 01268 922993 claire@motorboatowner.co.uk
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December 2020
welcome aboard
A misty morning at Harleyford’s Lagoon on the Thames taken by Nicola Baker
least one more in before the year is out, but for me it’s all about looking forward to 2021 and the hope that a vaccine will bring some kind of normality back to our lives, at least in time for the summer. All we can do is keep our fingers crossed. The one silver lining to Covid appears to be the number of new boaters that it has spawned. Being shut away for most of the year I haven’t really met many of
them yet, but going on the way good used boats are selling, there must be plenty out there. I can see that a few of you have found your way here, judging by the higher than usual increases in our subscription rates, so welcome to you all. I hope that your new boats have given you an insight into this wonderful world and that you have managed to make some use of your vessels. Most of all though, I hope that you have been bitten by the bug in the same way that I and many of our readers have. Boating, whether on the river or sea, gets in your blood and, once you have tasted the freedom and enjoyment that a boat brings, you will find it’s a bit like Hotel California, you can check out any time you like, but you can never leave. I hope for all of us, and particularly those new to boating, that 2021 delivers in all the ways that 2020 couldn’t. Happy Christmas to you all and wishing you health, fair winds and few restrictions for the new year.
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, Nick Critchell, Beverly & Martin Briggs Cover photo: Beneteau Swift Trawler
41 on test off Port Ginesta, Barcelona Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 11
PHOTO: © JULIEN GAZEAU
ANTARES 11 : FOR THE MOST BEST WEEKEND! Whether enjoyed with friends or family, the Antares 11 will quickly become your favorite weekend getaway! With 7 berths, a fully equipped galley, and an innovative and friendly exterior layout, this boat offers endless opportunity for leisure activities and will create memories to last a lifetime ! Available in either a flybridge or « coupé » version. WWW.BENETEAU.COM
CONTENTS DECEMBER 2020
REGULARS
Motorboat Owner
PROJECT BOAT togeth er
any accumwith the bilge drain ulated In the fuel vapou removed, meant r to dissip for in the do. When ime, I had proces a secon I replaced one other job ate. of points s, and the distrib d-hand I purch to service unit, and new . The old points ased a new parts inside I left all utor with ones install set were well used of the have disapp . The old ed. While removed, eared from shot, so and the points rotor arm points looked last centur I set about compl had a spare, boats still y, it is surpri cars back in may etely replac the ing them. rotor arm used but converted have them. sing just how good condi I Some many over to of spares that came many electro may have been old 4, I had boughas part of tion, nic ignitio 6 and still be t much a job lot n, running 8-cylinder earlier would engines but on points on HOW be TO IN changing useful to show , so I thoug will 12 STEP ht it them and the S 1 setting procedure for them up. 2
NEWS page 6 INBOX page 20 CUTTING EDGE page 44 Q&A page 54
3
Remove It will the distributor often be spring held on cap. Pull the clips, but with bolts If you rotor arm off. ours uses are chang points , you may ing the change this at as well time the same
Vixen PROJECT Fairline 4
5
together correctly, did I put it all back did I lap those month with o say I started the have I missed anything, bearing I have is a bit of an this a little trepidation valves properly, what’s not actually I consider last one is Unscr That understatement. While think left over? ew points adage about all the retain thethe DIY’er, I still old true. Despiteing myself a competent bolt and piece single Spark oldbits, have rebuild as a serious points I didn’t lift athe leftover of a major engine out. Check put it offbynothe erosion is caused spark while I have been for.n I could erosio for electri unaccounted undertaking. All the that jumps cal arc and was the culmination longer. November fettling, cleaning, dismantling contacme between the has taken have not really been ts. This engine overhaul that of an rebuilding, my skills we efficie when Motorb ncy of reduces the just one or two very oat Owner Yes, it really was 2016 system four years. put to the test. With really the ignition was © Digital I didn’t engine the Marine Media bought Leonora, although small jobs to do before Ltd I started to wonder: December 2020 ready to be tested,
T
Remove conne the wire that cts the points conde to nser. just a male This is usuallthe and female y spade conne ctor 6
New points and shiny will have clean the locato contacts. Note r pin correc t fitmen that ensures distrib t into the utor
70 73
page 18 News special
Best of Boat Awards 20 page 22 Project Boat
p22
Fairline Vixen
page 46 Small Boat Adventures
PRACTICAL
It is time to start up the Project Vixen
Choosing a boat page 70 Hooked
Multiplier reel restore
p58
p46 TROON Destination Guide
p74
p30
Broom 39kl/395
Beneteau ST41
CLASSIC CRUISER GUIDE
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
BOAT TEST
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NEWS Customs Status of Boats: EU Commission release post-Brexit plans The European Commission has provided the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) with further clarification on its position on the Customs Status of Boats after the end of the Brexit Transition Period. RYA’s Director of External Affairs, Howard Pridding, said “Sadly, the European Commission has confirmed our suspicions that documentation (such as a T2L, customs opinion letter or other supporting documentation) issued by the UK before the end of the transition period will not be valid in the EU as of the end of the transition period. However, we would recommend that boat owners keep hold of such documents, as they may provide useful evidence of the boat’s history and could be helpful when dealing with customs authorities in the EU27 in the future. We now have greater clarity on how the EU legislation applies to people who are established outside the EU. We also have clearer guidance on how a boat which is lying in the UK at the end of the transition period will be treated if it goes to the EU27 in the future. The Commission is no longer saying that any boat lying in the UK at the end of the transition period will not be eligible for Returned Goods Relief (RGR) as the boat will not have been exported. Instead they have differentiated the advice based on where the boat is registered and where the owner is established.” Howard continued “The Commission’s interpretation of the law provides important guidance, but the final decision on what actually happens when a boat is imported rests with the authorities in the country in which that import is taking place. We are pleased that the Commission has provided a detailed reply to our questions, many of which had been outstanding since the spring, this has enabled us to update the advice that we can provide to members. There will always be some regional variation on the experience boaters have when crossing international borders. Ultimately, boat owners may need to make their enquiries directly with national customs and tax authorities.” 6
December 2020
If you any have news from your region, please email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Beneteau Flyer 9 NEW BOAT Following in the footsteps of the new Antares 11 with its ingenious opening side platform, the French builder, Beneteau, has incorporated the feature into a new outboard-powered Flyer model. The new Flyer 9 is a two-berth dayboat-cum-weekender that is available in either SUNdeck or SPACEdeck versions. With both 27ft models benefitting from a separate toilet compartment, the SUNdeck pictured provides a sportscruiser-style dinette/two-berth cabin area, while the SPACEdeck is an open-walkaround deckboat with a cuddy. It is powered by Mercury outboard engines, with a maximum horsepower rating of twin 250hp. Additional features include a optional T-Top, a ski mast and bimini. Prices start at €48,500 for the SPACEdeck and €53,750 for the SUNdeck.
Scottish marina development There are plans to create a new marina development at the Southern end of the Ardeer Peninsula in Irvine Harbour, on the west coast of Scotland, as part of a £50m joint grant bid under the Ayrshire Growth Deal. The development in the historic harbour will incorporate residential apartments, food and non-food retail, leisure and tourism uses, as well as utilising the Big Idea, an abandoned science centre, as a concert venue. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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NEWS Studland Bay consultation: Possible boating ban
Following the designation of Studland Bay as a Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) in 2019, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is considering options up to and including a ‘blanket ban on boating and diving activities in the whole of Studland Bay’ in Dorset, which will include anchoring, saying this is to protect the seahorses and the bay’s seagrass they live in. The four mile sandy bay lies between Old Harry Rocks and the entrance to Poole Harbour and is a very popular all-year-round anchorage and tourist hotspot. Boaters, yacht clubs and associations are concerned about the proposed restrictions and are urging other boaters to take part in an in-depth consultation survey by Defra. Boaters have until the 15th of December to submit their views.
Premier Festive Pups This December the marina operator, Premier Marinas, is asking pet owning berthholders to share photos of their festively-dressed canine crew members. Entrants can take part in the competition by sharing a picture by email at marketing@ premiermarinas.com along with contact details, or by tagging their home marina in an image on Facebook or Twitter. Premier is accepting entries up until 23:59 on Monday 14th December, after which, an open poll will go live on its Facebook and Twitter accounts to let the public decide who has the cutest Premier Pup. The chosen owner will win a chocolate bundle and a treats gift set for their dog. 8
December 2020
If you any have news from your region, please email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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NEWS Iguana Coupé NEW BOAT French amphibious boat builder, Iguana, has added a new stylish sportster model to its range. Able to land ashore on all types of terrains, the new 9.2-metre 30ft ‘Coupé’ model provides a two-berth cabin, an integrated bimini and aft sunpad. With a maximum horsepower of 600hp, it will reach speeds of 53 mph (46 knots) and engine options are a single 300hp Mercury or Yamaha outboard, twin 225-300hp Mercurys or a single 300hp COX diesel outboard. Available in the UK through Berthon International, the Coupe is currently priced from £497,000.
Cowes Harbour Marine Park There are plans to redevelop Kingston Wharf in East Cowes on the Isle of Wight as a marine-focused industrial estate. The 10-acre waterfront site, formerly an aggregates site and wharf, is currently a boatyard, but Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) want to redevelop it to attract new marine tenants. Designs for the ‘Cowes Harbour Marine Park’ detail a large hoist, additional commercial units, with seven starter units on an upper terrace and four larger units on the lower terrace, two wharves for larger vessels and the potential addition of pontoons.
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
December 2020
Sargo behaves in waves like a refined sports car. Splendidly. And still making a lot of sense.
– SOLID, SAFE AND SPORTY – SOLID, SAFE AND SPORTY ”The unique SARGO hull is built to last and perform. Its robust structure is extremely strong and the construction is nothing less than heavy-duty. ”The unique SARGO hull is built to last The outcome is the unmistakably quiet and perform. Its robust structure is and smooth SARGO extremely strong andride.” the construction is nothing less than heavy-duty. David Sarin, Head of Production, Sarins Båtar Ltd.
Sargo is precisely that kindunmistakably of sport utility vessel, The outcome is the quietboasting exhilarating handling and ride characteristics even in rough and Some smooth SARGO seas. Sargo skippers ride.” talk about its smooth ride and good responsiveness even at higher speeds. We simply call it tough sportiness. David Sarin, Head of Production, Sarins Båtar Ltd. All Sargo models between 25-36 ft. live up to this while still making a lot of sense. Sargo is a true multi-purpose vessel
QUALITY NEARLY NEW MODELS AVAILABLE NOW
suited to many kinds of uses. The interior is both stylish and practical, following the great Scandinavian design tradition. Sargo is a premium boat built in Finland, a new brand based on a great tradition since 1967. Rain or shine, you’ll be fine. With a big smile on your face.
NEW 2021
Sargo Boats UK Limited - Hamble Point Marina, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 4JD Sargo Boats UK Limited - Hamble Point Marina, Hamble, Southampton Hampshire, SO31 4JD Tel: +44(0)2380 453 245 Email: info@sargoboats.co.uk Website: www.sargoboats.co.uk
Tel: +44(0)2380 453 245 Email: info@sargoboats.co.uk www.sargoboats.co.uk Sarins Båtar Ltd., 67900 Kokkola, Finland, info@sargoboats.fi, www.sargoboats.fi Sarins Båtar Oy Ab, 67900 Kokkola, Finland, info@sargoboats.fi, www.sargoboats.fi
NEWS Broads users urged to report invasive plant species Boaters and the public are being urged to look out for an invasive plant that is spreading through the Broads. The Broads Authority (BA) has issued an alert that the invasive floating pennywort plant has been found in the Broads National Park, asking river users and the local community to report but not disturb any outbreaks of the floating plant on the River Ant. The aggressively invasive floating pennywort (Hydrocotyle ranunculoides) has been spotted on the River Ant between Tonnage Bridge and Wayford Bridge, near Smallburgh. The plant spreads rapidly in water and can grow up to 20cm a day, creating a dense raft of vegetation, which clogs up streams and rivers. The floating pennywort is such a successful invader that just a single fragment of it drifting downstream can soon dominate an expanse of water, outcompeting native aquatic plants, blocking out the light they need, leading to the loss of native plants and a sterile river ecosystem. The floating pennywort is often confused with a harmless native plant, the marsh pennywort, which is smaller (1-5cm) and has its stalk attached underneath like an umbrella. Floating pennywort grows much larger (up to 7cm) with its stalk attached between lobes of a kidney shaped leaf. A PDF guide on how to identify them both can be found here. The BA warned, if the outbreak spreads further it will also affect tourism if dense mats of the plant grow thick enough to block river access for boaters and paddle sports. Here and across Europe, the costs of clearing the plant and of lost tourism are estimated to exceed £25 million per year. Broads Authority Ecologist, Jonathan Cook, said of the outbreak, “The pennywort was first spotted in late summer on the North Walsham and Dilham Canal between Honing Lock and Tonnage bridge, but we are uncertain as to how it entered the navigation. There’s also a patch at the confluence with the Hundred stream towards East Ruston. It is likely to extend up the stream as well as the surrounding dykes and ditches. We are asking people in the area to help out by being on the lookout for the floating pennywort and, if they spot it, to ensure that they do not disturb it.” Any sightings can be emailed to the Norfolk Non-Native Species Initiative at NNNSI@norfolk.gov.uk, with the exact location of where it was seen. More information at www.broads-authority.gov.uk 12
December 2020
If you any have news from your region, please email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
New Norwich watersports pontoon and portage Until recently, the river sluice at New Mills on the River Wensum in Norwich was the final destination for canoes, kayaks and SUPs. Now, thanks to a new pontoon and canoe portage, installed by the Broads Authority(BA) in partnership with Norwich City Council, such craft can continue on to Hellesdon upstream or downstream towards the River Yare. The Victorian pump house and sluice gates at New Mills sit on the New Mills Bridge over the Wensum and date back to 1897, constructed for the (then) new Norwich sewage system. The Victorian sluice is still used to manage water levels upstream of the structure. With no easy way around the sluice, it was the end point for most canoe, kayak and SUP trips. Although there was a set of concrete steps on the downstream side of the river, they were usually underwater and not accessible. Working with the River Wensum Strategy Partnership, the BA identified the need to create river access around the pump house by providing an upgraded canoe portage upstream and a new pontoon for canoes downstream. The work, which was completed in October 2020, now allows paddleboard users to safely remove their craft from the river and re-enter either side of the sluice.
Hammersmith Bridge A funding package has been agreed between the government and Transport for London (TFL) for the ‘stabilisation’ of Hammersmith Bridge. The bridge was closed to road and river traffic on the 13th August due to safety and structural concerns. As a result several controlled river passages were arranged in September for those it effected. As part of bridge stabilisation, TFL is now instructing contractors to carry out immediate mitigation work on its two western pedestals. With a ferry service planned for spring 2021, a taskforce of ministers and local council representatives has been discussing the potential for further controlled river passages at pre-designated times, based on risk assessments. Planned dates are to be discussed and publicised as soon as possible. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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NEWS Newark Marina extension An extension to a popular boating haven on the River Trent in Nottinghamshire is now complete. The 150-berth Newark Marina now has an additional, reclaimed pool providing an additional 33 berths. The pool’s floating pontoons are modern terracotta glass reinforced concrete (GRC), which were delivered by marina company, Inland and Coastal Marina Systems and installed by the marina team in November. Managing Director, James Wilkinson, said “It’s certainly been a busy 18 months. Our new pool was very much an unknown as the site had previously been used as a tip and so to regenerate the site was interesting. In our excavations we found thousands of bottles of so many types, tin helmets, even a decaying bayonet whilst digging and processing the made ground. I am delighted with the result.” James added that the marina has had a ‘strong take up in berths’ and still has ‘some capacity mainly on the smaller berths’ priced at £4.10 per metre per week.
Haines 36 NEW BOAT The British boat builder, Haines Marine, has a new 36ft aft cockpit model in production, which will be available in three different versions. April 2021 will see the official launch of the new 36s (Sedan), a single engine category C river/estuary cruiser. The 36s will be available with a 60hp, 115hp or 150hp Nanni engine and prices start at £243k. Following this in the summer will be the 36os, an offshore category B cruiser, with either a large single or twin engine installation priced from £299k. An electric version, the Haines 36es, is anticipated later in 2021. The 36 series is available in a standard layout that provides one master cabin with a double island berth and multiconfigurational seating in the saloon. A six-berth, mid cabin version will also be available. 14
December 2020
SWEDEN
Our legacy evolved
Nimbus T8
For all day-to-day activities A multifunctional, well equipped and fast day boat intended for day-to-day activities and water sports, with overnight accommodation for two – a worthy successor to the Nova and R-series.
AUTH O R I S E D D E A L E R
Offshore Powerboats Ltd, Lymington Yacht Haven, Kings Saltern Road, Lymington, Hampshire. SO41 3QD, enquiries@offshorepowerboats.co.uk, Tel - +44(0)1590 677955
www.nimbus.se
NOMINATED 2021
NEWS Shoebury Marina proposal ©SKARCHITECTS
©SKARCHITECTS
Plans have been put forward for a new, ‘state of the art marina with 24/7 all tides access at Southend-on-Sea in Essex. Essex-based architects, SKArchitects Ltd, have been working on proposals for a new Shoebury Marina, a 23acre site built upon the old Shoebury Ranges Site, now known as Gunners Park, which is currently a nature reserve incorporating a lake, skatepark and playground. Pushing forward the idea is Councillor Paul Gibson, and in his proposal he said “I envisage an Eastbourne-type marina with lock gates. There would be two basins with alongside pontoons. At least one hotel and restaurants/bars on the quayside. New housing and flats surrounding the site overlooking the water. In the north east corner, a boat park and chandlery. It would rejuvenate Shoebury by improving road links, employment and create a go-to venue away from central Southend.” He added “in the inner basin we could provide a sailing school. Along the sea wall, there is the opportunity to create a museum based on the military occupation of the area. All would encourage tourists to the area.” Plans show three interlinked marina basins created with a lock entrance just east of Shoebury’s Barge Pier. Designs detail three basins which are to be accessed by a 24/7 all-tides lock
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December 2020
Ready for some sporting fun?
Never underestimate the importance of having fun. A morning swim, lunch with friends, an exhilarating ride and a sunset cocktail. Who needs to step ashore. Brilliantly conceived, thoughtfully designed and expertly crafted. The E52S is more fun than you can imagine. To find out more please contact +44 1933 551606 cranchi@tingdene.net | www.tingdeneboatsales.net/cranchi
NEWS Best for Family
WINNER Prestige 420 Fly
Best of Boats Awards 2020 winners
The winners of the 2020 Best of Boats Awards, known to the industry as the ‘BOB awards’, were announced in November and, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, via a virtual awards ceremony. The multi-national BOB Awards jury panel is made up of 17 boating journalists from all regions of Europe as well as Russia and the USA, with Motorboat Owner Editor, Neale Byart, representing the United Kingdom. Despite being a difficult year for testing and sea trial events, 21 finalist jury-tested boats were selected and ‘Best for’ category winners were chosen. Broadcasting from the Berlin exhibition centre and home to the sponsor boat show
Best for Travel
WINNER Absolute Navetta 64
Best for Fishing
WINNER Quicksilver 805 PH 18
December 2020
If you any have news from your region, please email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Best for Beginners
WINNER Saxdor 200 Sport
event Boot & Fun Berlin, the winners were revealed to shipyard’s top-management and industry representatives who were virtually present with live feeds on Facebook and YouTube. This year’s winners include the Finnish-built Saxdor 200 Sport, which won the Best for Beginners award, with the Prestige 420 Fly scooping up the Best For Family award and Best for Fun category won by the Nimbus T8. Stefan Gerhard, founder of the Best of Boats Awards, added “Each of the 21 finalists is a winner. The Best of Boats Award only honours boats that really represent an innovation in their respective category.”
Best for Fun
WINNER Nimbus T8
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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INBOX
@
Horn winter muffs
I have over 20 years of back issues of a certain two UK motorboat magazine publications in my summer house library, but I must say these days what I really look forward to is each month reading Motorboat Owner online. I subscribed soon after your publication launched, and I’m pleased to say that in my opinion it just seems to get better and better. Well done and thank you for taking the lead with this type of publication. I wish you every success for the future. I thought I would share a tip which others may find of some benefit especially as the coldest winter months approach and we are thinking about winterisation. Over the past 12 years I have fitted several mid priced trumpet horns to my Nimbus 310 Coupe only to discover that after a couple of seasons they become corroded and no longer work. I suspect the biggest cause of them failing so quickly is a lack of frequent use combined with damp salty air particularly over the winter months. This clearly corrodes the delicate diaphragm mechanism. However, I have found an easy way to prevent this happening, a foolproof method would be to remove the horns when winterising or leaving the boat for a prolonged period but this is not always practical. Instead I give the horns a good spray of lubricant (such as WD40) and then cover them tightly with disposable gloves. It may look a little odd, but this trick definitely prolongs the life of the horns. Stuart Richards Editor comments: Thank you for writing in and providing a useful tip. I have suffered the same problem, but never really thought about trying to protect them. It is good to hear that it works. I wonder if there are other parts of the boat we should be thinking of ‘winterising’. If anyone has any other special winterising tips we would love to hear about them. 20
December 2020
email:
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Solar power I was interested in the request for information on solar charging systems in the November edition of Motorboat Owner. I had the same issue to solve when cruising this summer and overnighting at anchor, using lights, water pump and running our fridge. On one occasion the domestic batteries gradually discharged resulting in the gas alarm low battery alarm waking us up during the night. The problem was alleviated by disconnecting the alarm (and of course disconnecting the gas supply). Starting the engines the next morning was enough to keep the domestics going, but the decision was made to go for solar panels. I decided against a permanent solar panel as I did not want to loose deck space and found folding solar panels giving out 200 watts on Amazon. I bought a Dokio 200W 12V Foldable Solar Panel Kit Monocrystalline with Solar Controller for just under £200, this I could use as a temporary panel when needed. The product comes with a good case to hold the panels and cables, but I found the cables too short for my purposes so had to lengthen them. I also bought a 12 volt waterproof Etuker Three Pin Trailer Plug and Trailer Socket Connector from Amazon for £7.50 and permanently mounted that in the cockpit. The supplied charge controller was as ‘ugly as sin’ so I made a 1mm ply cover for it, also ensuring that the cooling vents were not covered, and made permanent connections to the domestic batteries. Now I can plug in my panels when I anticipate the need to ensure the batteries keep charged. The case is not small though, being about A1 size, so you need somewhere to keep it aboard. If you leave it at home and sod’s law you will miss the one time you will need it. You cannot leave the solar panels out all the time, as they are not designed for all weathers. I found it a cheap but effective alternative, particularly for those, like myself, who do not want permanent solar panels mounted on their decks. Graham Archard Editor comments: That sounds like a good solution for occasional solar charging, although storing an A1 sized panel won’t be easy on many boats. Perhaps a slightly smaller panel would also work for boaters with less space. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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Motorboat Owner
PROJECT BOAT
PROJECT Fairline Vixen
T
o say I started the month with a little trepidation is a bit of an understatement. While I consider myself a competent DIY’er, I still think of a major engine rebuild as a serious undertaking. All the while I have been fettling, cleaning, dismantling and rebuilding, my skills have not really been put to the test. With just one or two very small jobs to do before the engine was ready to be tested, I started to wonder:
did I put it all back together correctly, have I missed anything, did I lap those valves properly, what’s this bearing I have left over? That last one is not actually true. Despite the old adage about all the leftover bits, I didn’t have a single piece unaccounted for. I could put it off no longer. November was the culmination of an engine overhaul that has taken me four years. Yes, it really was 2016 when we bought Leonora, although I didn’t really
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December 2020
get stuck into things until May of 2017, so we’ll call it three and a half years. In that time I have probably spent, on average, about a day and a half per month working on the boat’s engine and drive, while fitting it around a full-time work schedule. So, in reality, and because it sounds much better, I can say that it has taken me around two months of solid work to get from the pictures you see above of a seized engine that was literally covered in corrosion, to an engine that I was about to try and get started. Most amazing of all is just how few new parts I ended up needing. Apart from a bit of wiring, a
From rusty scrap to potential power plant. Would the transformation be a success?
few electrical connecters, some service items and gaskets, and the odd small component or fixing, the only significant new bits on the finished engine you see in the current pictures is a starter motor and a distributor. I still reserve judgment on the alternator, but even so that is a remarkably small list of replacement parts for an engine that looked, at first sight, to be scrap. Before I got to that pivotal moment, I still had to arrange a suitable fuel supply.
Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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A fuel filter/water separator was installed and the supply hose connected to the engine’s lift pump
The boat’s tank is still removed and awaits a proper inspection and clean so, as we stood, there was nothing before the engine’s lift pump. In my workshop I had a filter/water separator housing from an old V8 engine that had been stripped. This would be perfect for ‘Leo’. I even had a couple of brand-new filter/water separators for it. Bearing in mind this old V8 was removed from a boat in 2005, it’s proof that if you keep things long enough, they will one day come in handy. The filter housing was given a good clean, together with the original lift pump supply line, and was installed onto the engine bay’s forward bulkhead. The fuel line was connected between it and the lift pump and a filter installed. As a temporary fuel supply, I filled a 25 litre outboard tank with some of Esso’s super unleaded and,
after removing the outboard connector from the end of the fuel line, plugged this straight onto the inlet of the filter housing. The primer bulb was a great way of filling the filter and carbs and putting a little bit of pressure into the fuel system, once the carb bowls were full, to check for leaks. Sure enough, one of my connections was weeping. After dismantling the supply line to the lift pump connection and replacing a copper washer, the fuel system appeared to be leak free. The only problem now was that I had managed to spill a fair bit of fuel into the bilge while remedying the leak and needed to clear any fumes out of the boat before even thinking about trying to start it. The old bilge blower was still inoperative, so I decided to let nature take its course and left the engine bay fully open and exposed to the air,
As a temporary measure, an outboard fuel tank was connected up and the system pressurised 24
December 2020
together with the bilge drain removed, for any accumulated fuel vapour to dissipate. In the meantime, I had one other job to do. When I replaced the distributor with a second-hand unit, I left all of the old service parts inside. The rotor arm looked well used and the points completely shot, so I set about replacing them. I had a spare, used but good condition, rotor arm that came as part of a job lot of spares I had bought much earlier on
in the process, and I purchased a new set of points. The old points were removed, and new ones installed. While points may have disappeared from cars back in the last century, it is surprising just how many boats still have them. Some may have been converted over to electronic ignition, but many old 4, 6 and 8-cylinder engines will still be running on points, so I thought it would be useful to show the procedure for changing them and setting them up.
HOW TO IN 12 STEPS
1
Remove the distributor cap. It will often be held on with spring clips, but ours uses bolts 4
Unscrew the points retaining bolt and lift the old points out. Check for spark erosion
2
Pull the rotor arm off. If you are changing the points, you may as well change this at the same time 5
Spark erosion is caused by the electrical arc that jumps between the contacts. This reduces the efficiency of the ignition system
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Remove the wire that connects the points to the condenser. This is usually just a male and female spade connector 6
New points will have clean and shiny contacts. Note that there is a locator pin that ensures correct fitment into the distributor
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Place the points into the distributor, ensuring the locator pin sits in its recess, nip up the retaining bolt and connect the wire
With a socket on the crankshaft, spin the engine so that one of the cams on the distributor shaft is pressing on the points
Loosen the points retaining bolt and, with a feeler gauge, adjust the points so that the gap between the contacts is correct
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Our AQ151 requires a gap of 0.4mm. The gap is correct when you can slide the feeler gauge between the contacts with just a hint of resistance
Once the gap is correct tighten the retaining bolt and check the gap again in case it moved
You can now install your new rotor arm and replace the distributor cap. Your points are set accurately enough for the engine to run
Once you have set your points up with a feeler gauge and your engine is running, you can further adjust them for the correct dwell angle. The dwell angle is a measurement of how long the points stay closed based on the 360° of distributor shaft rotation. Your engine manual should tell you the correct dwell angle, 62°±3° for the AQ151. On a four cylinder engine, with four cams on the distributor shaft, the dwell angle is quite large as there is 90° between each cam. An eight cylinder
engine has to squeeze eight cams in the same 360° so each cam is only 45° apart and therefore the dwell angle will be around half that of a four cylinder engine, something in the region of 30°. Setting the dwell is the most accurate way of adjusting points, but requires patience as it can only be carried out with the engine running so each adjustment means removing the distributor cap and rotor arm, carrying out the adjustment, putting the rotor arm and distributor cap back on, starting the
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The carbs were adjusted as per the manual on both the idle adjustment and mixture screw
engine and taking another measurement. If you have access to a dwell meter it is worth the effort and is just one small step in ensuring that your old fashioned mechanically controlled petrol engine is running at its optimum performance. This is something that I will look into next month, together with ignition timing using a strobe, should I have a running engine to do it on. The rest of the engine’s timing had been set up statically, using top dead centre on cylinder number 1, when I put everything back together. This means that if all is OK, the engine should now run, even if not perfectly, on these basic settings. The next thing I had to do was some basic carb settings. Again, the engine manual gives you the information you need. In my case it was to first check that the butterflies of both carbs started to open at exactly the same time. Mine were good but adjustments are easy to make on the linkage arm. Next, I had to turn the idle screws on both carbs out, then in until they just touched the cam that operated the butterfly valve. Then they were given two full turns each as instructed by the specifications. The last setting to look
at before trying to start was the mixture screw. Again, the manual gives a starting point that should be good enough to get the engine going, with finer tuning done once it is running. These both needed screwing fully in, to close the mixture off, then opening one and a half turns each. With the fuel vapour cleared from the engine bay, the outdrive lower unit immersed in a tub of water, and the strainer filled with water to help prime the cooling system, it was finally time to go for the big fire up. With the ignition turned on and a remote starter button connected across the starter solenoid I was able to stand in the engine bay and operate the throttle linkage while attempting to start. The first few attempts didn’t seem very hopeful. The engine was turning over and fuel was being injected into the carbs but there was no sign of life at all. On about the sixth attempt there was the briefest of flutters as fuel vapour was ignited in at least one of the cylinders. The next attempt saw the engine almost start. Finally, the engine sprang into life. The idle was too high, simply cured later by backing off the idle screws, but she was running, water was coming out of the exhaust, there was
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After a few failed attempts, the engine started showing signs of life before finally firing up (see video)
only a small water leak coming from the exhaust manifold drain, again quickly cured by tightening it further and the rev gauge, oil pressure and temperature gauges all started to act as you would expect. The volt meter at the helm was showing less volts than we would expect, so there may be some work to do regards the alternator, but I will investigate that further next time. The relief was immense. No more worrying about what I would do if the engine wouldn’t run. After shutting it off and restarting it a few times it is now starting on the button. Once the idle was adjusted down to the usual 900rpm it was running a bit lumpy, but I have plenty of opportunities now with the carburettor and timing settings to get that smoothed
out and that, together with a few more little outstanding jobs, is how I will be spending my allocated 1-2 days next month. All I can say now is, phew, I’m off for a well-earned beer!
Spend so far
Motorboat Owner
PROJECT BOAT This month’s spend
Replacement points £7.92
Balance from last month
£2,183.42
Total to date: £2,191.34
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December 2020
New 2020 - Finnmaster R6 and T6
Ready for Adventure
www.f innmaster.f i
Beneteau ST41
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BOAT TEST
Length (LOA): 13.43m / 44ft 1in Beam: 4.25m / 13ft 11in Displacement: 11,040kg Fuel capacity: 1,170 litres Water capacity 400 litres Engine as tested: 2 x 270hp Volvo Penta D4 Other engine options: 2 x 300hp Volvo Penta D4 RCD category: B8 Price from £382,000 Price as tested £522,000
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W
e have previously tested two models, from either end of the spectrum, of Beneteau’s Swift Trawler range and found them both to be very competent family boats for those wishing to cruise long distance with space and comfort a priority over speed. Would the middle of the range ST41 deliver more of the same? We stepped aboard in Barcelona just before lockdown to find out. When we tested the ST47 back in December 2018, it wasn’t quite the flagship of the Swift trawler range, that honour goes to the ST50, but we did conclude that it was a serious contender as a long
distance liveaboard with just, perhaps, its price tag of circa half a million and a fuel economy of just 1nmpg being the only blots on its otherwise excellent credentials. Two years earlier, in May 2016, we found with the ST30, a boat that could offer a couple a similar package with a much more affordable price tag and, being single
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engine, a better return on your fuel. But what about if you need something that offers the space for more than two, without the price premium of the ST47? Well there are two other STs to choose from. The 35 and the 41, the latter of which comes in two models, either with or without a flybridge. It is this latter model that comes under the microscope this month, in particular, the flybridge version. Starting in the bow, Beneteau has stuck with the tried and tested layout, and it is here that you will find the master cabin. This cabin is of good proportions and offers 6ft 2 in (1.88m) of headroom. The large island berth dominates, but there is Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
“Is Beneteau’s newest 44ft Swift Trawler the ultimate liveaboard passage maker?” still a very generous full standing area aft of the bed with 3ft 10in (1.17m) between the end of the berth and the cabin door. The berth is flanked on either side with steps, allowing easy access, and storage in here is plentiful. There are cupboards
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The master cabin features an island berth, lots of space and separate ensuite toilet and shower compartments, all with excellent headroom
in each aft corner of the cabin that incorporate shelves and hanging space, and the whole aft section of the bunk lifts on gas struts to access a cavernous locker below. This cabin’s PiÊce de rÊsistance though, is its private, en-suite, separate toilet and shower compartments. The shower can be found to starboard, just after entering the cabin, while the toilet compartment is opposite, on the port side. Both of these areas deliver even more headroom than the cabin and are nicely fitted out and equipped for long term cruising. Leaving the master cabin, and moving aft, you enter a lobby with two doors off to starboard and one to port. Behind the
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port side door is the 41’s second cabin. This offers twin bunks, 6ft 5in (1.96m) headroom and is remarkably light and airy, not least due to the in hull window and two opening ports. Storage in here is provided by a single half-height hanging locker with additional space below the bunks. The door opposite, on the starboard side, provides access to the boat’s day toilet. There is no en-suite access to this
Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
compartment, so all other guests must enter via the lobby, but inside there is 6ft 5in (1.96m) headroom and a shower, toilet and sink all in the one space, with storage both above and below the sink. One final door in this lobby area, aft of the day toilet, takes you into a third cabin cum large storage area. There is a single bunk in here and, with just under 7ft (2.13m) of headroom inside the door and an opening port, there is no
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compromise to be made if you want to use it to accommodate a guest. But for many owners this will be used to store the sort of stuff you need when spending serious time onboard. To this end, Beneteau has kitted this cabin out with good, sectioned storage compartments that will be very useful, whether the cabin is occupied or not. From the lower lobby, four steps lead up and into the wheelhouse. This features a galley aft layout, which comes into its own when the cockpit is in use, and has a dinette on the port side forward. This dinette will seat four as is, or you can fold out the table, which doubles its size, and swing the helm seat around for a fifth and sixth place setting. Beneteau tell us that this arrangement allows for up to eight people, but we think six is more realistic.
The dinette converts to a further berth, as you might expect, and a nice feature that Beneteau has included here is a curtain track in the ceiling overhead, together with a pair of curtains, that completely enclose this area for privacy when it is occupied. The galley is a U-shaped arrangement that delivers lots of worktop space and plenty of storage immediately to hand, both above and below the worktop. The storage here is supplemented with another large bank of cupboards and shelves on the opposite side of the wheelhouse, where you will also find the built-in, generously sized fridge/freezer. If that wasn’t enough in which to keep your pots, pans and victuals, there is further storage below the aft section of dinette seating, and even
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more in the dinette floor. The floor in the galley comprises a large hatch that lifts to provide access to the engine room space. Down here there is ample room to get around the engines and gearboxes, meaning daily checks and servicing shouldn’t require any further dismantling or moving of furniture and fixings above. The larger engine option is also based on the same D4 engines, so even if you opt for this, you won’t be sacrificing any space down here to accommodate those extra horses. Opposite the dinette is the helm, which features a large vertical steering wheel that almost defines a trawler yacht. The helm seat will accommodate two and has a lifting bolster to allow more room for standing and, importantly, to make Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
use of the full-height, full-width, sliding door alongside. This gives the skipper easy access to the decks, a useful feature if single or short handed, and is generally nice to have open when helming from below on a pleasant day. A platform to provide extra height at the helm when standing slides out from the seat base, and a footrest is provided on the aft bulkhead of the helm console to aid comfort when seated. The three-part sliding doors that separate wheelhouse from cockpit all slide and lock to starboard to completely open up the space between the two. This space further merges when you flip up a section of worktop from the aft galley bulkhead to create a bar/serving area for the outside space. Below this a bin is
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More space? The transom seat slides back by 40cm to provide a larger cockpit area for socialising
usefully built into this aft galley bulkhead giving cockpit occupants an easy way of getting rid of any unwanted rubbish. The cockpit itself is a decent size, with an aft bench and double transom gate, but if you need more space it has a clever trick up its sleeve. A large part of the aft bench slides back 40cm, which makes the cockpit feel considerably larger. Like other boats in the ST range, Beneteau has made the
flybridge steps moveable, so that they can lay flat against the wheelhouse bulkhead to allow even more room in the cockpit. A large hatch in the cockpit floor provides access to a lazarette, where a ladder is provided for easy access. In here is where you will find the generator, if fitted. To move forward on deck, Beneteau has favoured the starboard side deck. This is just a small step up from cockpit level and
A very useful wetbar adorns the flybridge and there is ample space aft to store water toys 38
December 2020
is a minimum of 14 in (36cm) wide. It is protected by a 28 in (71cm) high gunwale all the way to just forward of the helm side door, where three steps take you up to foredeck level. Almost level with the helm door there is a gunwale gate, which itself is just adjacent to the spring cleat. This all makes getting the boat secure much easier for the helmsperson if they are single-handed. A door just forward of the cockpit enables the side deck to be mostly sealed off when in port or at sea in poor conditions. The port side deck is raised and has three steps leading up to it from the cockpit. Despite being the unfavoured side, this side deck is still very usable at around 12 in (30cm) wide. This deck is protected behind 30 in (76cm) high guardrails that extend all the way around the foredeck. On the foredeck, where the side decks meet, there is a Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
A door closes off the side deck, while the flybridge steps can be pushed forward when not needed
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PERFORMANCE
As tested 50% fuel, 55% water, 8 crew, Force 2 RPM
Knots
LPH
GPH
MPG
Range (nm)
large flat working area with a deck 650 (idle) 2.9 2.8 0.62 4.68 1,204 1000 5.2 5.6 1.23 4.23 1,088 mounted windlass and two gas strut 1500 7.3 11.1 2.44 2.99 770 stayed hatches to provide access to 2000 9.0 26.5 5.83 1.54 396 the anchor locker below. The raised 2500 11.1 48.3 10.6 1.05 270 cabin roof is fitted with large sunpad 3000 15.9 68.4 15.1 1.05 270 cushions. 3250 18.2 84.9 18.7 0.97 250 Up on the flybridge the 41 has a 3500 20.4 98.2 21.6 0.94 242 3600 21.8 106.3 23.4 0.93 239 single, central helm seat with a bench seat running down both sides, the forward end of each has a flipable Underway backrest to allow for two further forward The ST41, like other boats in the range, is facing seats flanking the helm. The port not a particularly dynamic boat to drive, side seat is L-shaped and includes a table but looking for dynamism in a trawler for al-fresco dining and gatherings. There style boat does somewhat miss the point. is a small step just aft of the seating area This is a boat for taking you from A to B, which acts as a bit of a trip hazard, and the not for blasting around the bay, and what aft section of the flybridge includes a large you need from a long distance passage wetbar with fridge, griddle and sink. maker is a comfortable ride, a relaxing 40
December 2020
Twin Volvo Penta D4-270s pushed our test boat to 21 knots
“It is relaxed, comfortable and reassuring, just as a trawler should be” driving experience, a decent turn of speed, if required, and a good level of fuel economy. The ST41 is a boat on which you can set the throttle to deliver a nice ride for the conditions, and not need to touch it again until you near your destination. Yes, it will reach the heady heights of over 20 knots, but its cruising speed is best considered to be more like 15 knots, where it achieves all but one of the criteria listed above. At 15 knots the boat is returning just over one nautical mile per gallon, so economical cruising this is not. However, the ST41 is equally at home cruising at 10 knots, or even 8 knots, where you can halve your fuel consumption per mile. Drop another knot and you will see the 41 return nearly 3nmpg. The driving Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
experience is relaxed, and visibility from the flybridge excellent. You can even see the bow rails when seated, unlike many flybridge boats. Visibility from the lower helm is also good until around 10 knots, when the bow rises and your seated view forward becomes restricted, even more so if the bow cushions are in place. This can be overcome by adding a bit of trim but that will be at the expense of a little extra fuel. Standing at the lower helm provides good visibility forward at all speeds. In inclement weather, with rain and spray, three pantograph wipers do a reasonable job of clearing a good proportion of each of the three screens. Visibility aft from the lower helm is, as you might expect, quite restricted. There are two blind spots on
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the aft corners and, when the boat is at planing attitude, the flybridge overhang blocks your view aft almost completely. An aft facing camera, mounted on the flybridge overhang and linked to your MFD, would make a useful addition. Getting the boat up and on the plane is pretty quick with the 270hp option, taking around 10 seconds. The larger engines will deliver slightly better acceleration, and of course, top speed, but personally I’m not sure it is necessary. With a reasonable amount of top hamper, the flybridge can get a bit rolly when going slow in a beam sea, and the low bathing platform meant abrupt stops resulted in a flooded cockpit due to the back wash. Noise levels are good when running slow, but at higher RPMs the levels do increase, we recorded 90dB at the helm at 3000rpm with all doors open. Closing up the wheelhouse goes some way to improving things, with levels dropping to 83dB, proving that some of the noise is actually environmental. Conclusion As a comfortable family cruiser, the ST41 hits the same spot as the other boats in
The foredeck offers safe crewing credentials as well as a large sunpad on top of the forecabin
the line-up that we have tested. Once you get your head around a cruising speed in the mid teens, life onboard this, and other STs, becomes relaxing and effortless. I always hope that boats of this style will deliver better fuel economy than they do, but the reality is that something around one nautical mile per gallon is what you are going to get at cruising speeds, and this compares with traditional fully planing flybridge cruisers of a similar size, although you will get there a bit quicker with the latter. What the ST range does though, is offer a great slow speed option. Drop down to 7 knots and you can achieve a very reasonable 3mpg. OK
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you can get these kind of figures with a full displacement boat, or indeed with a planing hulled boat run at displacement speeds, but the former will not be able to deliver ‘get-you-home’ speed if things turn a bit messy and the latter will never feel truly at home running at single digit speeds. So what the ST range does, and the 41 is no exception, is provide a very good balance of displacement, semi displacement and planing type boating that very few other boats can deliver. If you are looking for a comfortable, long distance family cruiser, and have time to take it slow, or at least no real desire for fast cruising, the ST41 could be the perfect boat. Whatever
The ST41 is a versatile, comfortable family cruiser
your budget, and however large your usual crew, we can say with some confidence, having now been on a good spread of the range, that there will be an ST that fits the bill perfectly.
ENQUIRIES: Beneteau For your nearest dealer visit www.beneteau.com YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Cranchi Trawler T43
Tarquin Explorer 43
Nordhavn 41
LOA: 13.8m Beam: 4.37m Displacement: 13,699kg Enquiries: Tingdene Boat Sales 01189 477770 www.tingdeneboatsales.net
LOA: 12.95m Beam: 4.6m Displacement: TBC Enquiries: Tarquin Motor Yachts 07818 028507 www.tarquinmotoryachts.com
LOA: 12.6m Beam: 4.24m Displacement: 19,500kg Enquiries: Nordhavn Europe 02380 456342 www.nordhavneurope.com
Slightly larger, the Cranchi is IPS powered and has a 2 or 3 cabin layout, the former having a full-width midships master suite.
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Formerly known as Trader, the Tarquin Explorer 43 Sportfisher is the smallest model in this semidisplacement trawler range.
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If you only want to go slowly and anywhere, the entry-level 41 is worth a look. It offers an oceancrossing, 8000-mile range.
PRICE from £651,000
> NEXT MONTH Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
XO DSCVR
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CUTTING
the latest boating gear and technology
Whisper Power
Owners of 24 volt boats now have a new range of battery chargers to choose from, thanks to Whisper Power. The Supreme Pro Battery Chargers are said to be the smallest 24V chargers available and come in 40, 60, 80 and 100Amp versions. The three stage chargers designed to run silently, offer optimum voltage stability, and be fully integrated into a vessel’s operating system. They can also handle a wide range of battery chemistry types, have three separate outputs for charging multiple battery banks and can be equipped with a remote control panel. Price from £973.20 www.whisperpower.com
Seawater & Sawdust
With a combined age of over 120 years, two pensioners set out to design and build from scratch, a 30ft wooden motorboat. Starting in March 2015, Tom and Lorraine remarkably launched their boat less than two years later, in December 2016. No strangers to boat building, they built their first boat in their 30’s and their second in their 40’s, this achievement is remarkable nonetheless, not least helped by some quite serious medical problems mid build. Thea, was the couples first motorboat, having moved over from sail, and Seawater and Sawdust tells the tale of its build. Price £19.99 www.fernhurstbooks.com
Seago ecodry
The new ecodry desiccant dehumidifier from Seago is specifically designed for boats and marine applications. It has a clear and simple display that shows temperature and relative humidity and can be run on a continuous drain, if required. It also has an auto restart feature in the event of power failure. It works by setting the required humidity using the digital controls, a range of 35-85% relative humidity. It has three different modes mixing high and low power with high and low fan speeds as well as a dedicated ‘sleep’ mode that keeps noise levels to a minimum and dims the LCD display. The outlet vents can be set to static, or swing to help circulate the warm, dry air. Price £159 www.seagoyachting.co.uk
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Guernsey Small boat big grins If you are looking to set off on adventures in a small inflatable boat, Simon Everett runs through some considerations to bear in mind before making your decision
T
here has been a huge increase in interest for the compact inflatable boat, it would appear mainly from the newcomer to boating as it is an affordable entry route. For as little as ÂŁ3500 you can buy a complete boat and outboard suitable for a young family to enjoy sheltered waters.
For ÂŁ20,000 you can get a brand new RIB with 50hp outboard on a trailer. Of course you can spend considerably more, but these figures illustrate why inflatable boats are so attractive to newcomers, and
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SMALL BOAT ADVENTURES
CHOOSING YOUR BOAT
their abilities are well known to seasoned boaters. Inflatable boats, in one form or other, have been around for a long time, but in the last 50 years the rate of development has been exponential, for both RIBs (rigid inflatable boat) and SIBs (soft inflatable boats), and as a result they have become increasingly popular for both commercial and leisure applications, not without good reason either. The earliest inflatables were in the form of inflated
animal hides stitched together, followed by canvas stitched to form a boat. With the advent of rubber we saw the start of the development of modern, reinforced fabric with a rubberised coating to render it airtight and impervious to water. The first company to produce inflatable boats on a large scale was the French firm of Zodiac, using rubberised canvas panels hand glued together with taped seams. This method of construction is still regarded as one of the best, but it does depend upon
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Fun and room for all the family, even the dog. An inflatable is an affordable way to get on the water
how conscientious the labour force is, because it is slow and requires a high level of skills. Modern production methods are controlled by computerised machines with up-to-date specialised fabrics and sonic welding. The debate still rages as to which is better.
RIB or SIB?
That is the question, whether tis nobler to deflate, roll and throw in the boot of the car, or suffer the slings and arrows of towing and parking a trailer. Of course, the discussion doesn’t end there, much will depend upon the type of use the craft is going to be put to. For rough, open water a hard hulled boat will perform far better, but try telling that to a white water rafter, where the soft bottom, lightweight and ease of movement on the water are
a definite advantage. You will not find a single, white water rafting company using RIBs for their game, despite the size and ferocity of the water they are traversing. If a RIB is a sportsboat wearing a lifejacket, a SIB is the lifejacket. If stowage for the boat is at a premium then a soft inflatable is the ideal answer, easy to inflate, easy to launch, easy to use, either as a tender or liferaft, which is their traditional role, or as a lightweight family boat. Early designs had a simple, flexible skin deck, over time wooden duck boards were added and now there are closely fitted hard decks in either wood or aluminium to choose from that provide an added degree of rigidity and comfort aboard. The choice is yours, aluminium is strong, reasonably light but being metal can either be very cold to the
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Floor types. Rigid floors are panelled wood or concertinaed like this lightweight aluminium floor. The floor of an airdeck inflatable is angled and lacks grip when wet
touch in winter, or very hot in summer, which if you are taking a dog aboard is a consideration worth making. Our dog was very uncomfortable one summer on the alloy decking, to the point we had to put a wetted towel down for him. It was hot underfoot for us too when barefoot. Hardwood marine ply is a better material in this regard, as it insulates against the cold and heat and is just as rigid in use. The RIB is a development of this wooden duckboard arrangement, but with the plywood sheathing being applied externally in a bid to protect the fabric bottom from the rocks, the idea is attributed to the Atlantic College in Wales and in particular the then Principle of the College, Sir Desmond Hoare. So successful Differences can be subtle, tube diameter and hull shape
was the design that the RNLI took things a stage further and subsequent designs all bear the moniker ‘Atlantic’ in recognition of those first practitioners at the college. At the time it was a unique concept but the idea has gone on to become accepted the world over. Having laid the foundations behind the two types of boat, only you can decide which will fit your need the best. Remember there is no perfect boat, it is all swings and roundabouts, you will have to accept compromise somewhere along the line, that might be down to budget or actual operating requirements. For instance if you want speed, handling and seakeeping, you will need to forgo portability, expect to pay more and opt for a RIB. As it is such a vast subject we shall concentrate on the versatile SIB, and the kinds of decisions you should be taking
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You could consider buying used. This early classic Avon has a hardwood floor, separate outboard mount, wooden oars and pump. However, space is at a premium
into account before splashing your cash. At first glance, especially to the uninitiated, one inflatable boat will look very much like another, but be cautious, looks can be deceiving, as can specifications on paper. I have heard comments to the effect that many of them come out of the same factory and therefore the unbranded version is just the same as the branded one. There may be an element of truth in this, but just because two boats look the same, and have come from the same builder, there can be unseen differences. Even if the panels are cut from the same patterns, the weight and
type of material used can differ, as can the method of construction. Are the seams backed, overlapped and then topped off, or are the two panels just joined together? Another favourite way to save money is by using inferior hardware, leaving out the pressure relief valves, changing the transom and handles. The result, whilst it might look the same in studio pictures when new, is a very different boat on the water. The guarantee is another way to judge just how much faith in their product the vendor has, and beware of internet sellers with no facilities for after sales service. Caveat emptor.
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Important features. Fitted wheels make launching across a beach so much easier. A fairlead on the bow protects against anchor warp chaffage. Thwart bag stowage is great for loose items
As SIB designs have evolved and become ever more sophisticated, so the accessories available to rig these boats have grown to match. It is now possible to rig out your soft inflatable boat with a fish finder, chartplotter, rod holders and a host of other add-ons to turn it into a serious watercraft, whether that be for pure boating enjoyment, fishing, wildlife watching or adventurous camping trips. To my mind the overriding argument for a SIB is in its portability, the fact that it rolls up means you can put it in your car boot, store it in your garden shed and carry it in a large bag. For that reason, consider the weight you will have to manhandle. The same applies to the engine to power it. Having had the lightest 15hp outboard available, and found it was right at the limit of my ability to lift in
or out of the car, I now have a 10hp and find it so much easier to move around. However, with SIBs typically being quite lightweight, they don’t need vast horsepower to get them going. An average 3.3m SIB with a 10hp outboard will nip along at 13 or 14 knots quite happily, and use very little fuel in doing so. I see some people trying to overpower their SIB in the quest for more performance, but their efforts would be better directed in looking for a different type of boat. You will have to accept that a soft hulled inflatable is never going to be the fastest on the water, not unless you want sheer adrenaline and take nothing with you, in which case get a ZapCat and 50hp. I touched on the differences between a vee hull, such as the Honwave, and semicathedral types such as on the WolfStar
An inflatable keel hog provides the shape. Add a 10hp outboard and you will still nip along Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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With room for four, the Fjordstar is a super compact RIB. Takacat inflatable catamaran
range. An airdeck is lighter overall and, provided you can maintain the high pressure, it does become quite rigid, but the vee hull also manifests itself on the interior where the deck sheer means there is no flat surface to stand, or put your gear on. With an internal rigid deck the hull shape is below the flat surface. A vee hull might be better for rough water, theoretically anyway, but at rest on calm water the boat will move more readily as you shift your weight because the boat is sitting on the keel line, the cathedral type sits on the sponsons either side and is more confidence inspiring as it hardly moves at all. It does make for a seemingly more secure platform even if the trade off is slightly less performance in the rough. Be honest, are you really going out in conditions that would test either to their limit? A departure from this is the Takacat, an inflatable catamaran, designed and built in New Zealand. The airdeck is flat, but there is little internal freeboard, so greater care is needed, especially with the open transom, but they are great fun and very capable. The interior deck space can be quite different in very similar sized boats. If you are going to be carrying a host of camping gear, the size of the cockpit is going to dictate how much legroom you have left. Likewise if you have young children
or take your dog, having a secure deck underfoot and decent elbow room makes sense, being piled in on top of each other soon lessens the appeal. The shape of the boat will impact on the amount of internal space, those boats that carry their beam well forward provide the greatest deck space, those that have a more pointed bow lose internal area very quickly. Most modern inflatables are made from a PVC fabric. Hypalon is used for some but it is more bulky, heavier when deflated and more expensive to buy. It is however, considered a tougher, more durable material. Amongst the PVC offerings, check the weight and denier, cheaper boats can be made from 750g material while the more robust ones use 1100g PVC, that is nearly 50% thicker again and the increase in strength is not linear. The guarantee offered will give you an idea of how wellbuilt the boat is. The best offer a 5 year warranty, while others may provide just 12 months, there is a reason one boat is twice the price of another. If you aren’t going to be doing anything very strenuous with your boat, then maybe the cheaper boat will suit your needs quite happily. If you have a more adventurous spirit, I would advise investing in a well-proven model. One of the problems that a warm summer reveals with inflatable boats is the lack of pressure relief valves on the
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December 2020
air chambers leading to burst seams. The typical scenario is the boat is inflated in the morning, while the air is still fairly cool. Then it is pulled up on the beach in a secluded cove for a picnic lunch with the full strength of the sun beating down on it. The resultant expansion of the air within the chambers overcomes the strength of the seams and the boat bursts. There were numerous reports like this throughout the summer, a boat fitted with pressure relief valves will not suffer this fate as the safety valves will vent to regulate the expansion. It is worth noting that dark coloured tubes absorb more heat than light ones, so pressure relief valves are even more important if you opt for an adventurous looking black SIB. Another difference that affects the ease of use is the number of handles and their placement on the tubes. When you start looking into these boats it becomes obvious that some have just been provided with basic handles whilst others have really been
thought about and handles provided for every eventuality, for instance inside the cones for lifting the stern single handed. Other niceties are things like an anchor warp guide to save the fabric of the boat from wear at the bow, extra armoured sections under the tubes to protect when beaching, a sturdy transom and thwarts, proper thole pins for the oars and grab lines that provide security without getting in the way. Before deciding on your boat, give some thought to what you want to do with it, where it will be used and the type of conditions it will have to deal with. The size of boat you will need depends on how many people or how much gear it is being asked to transport too. An extra 30cm on the length can deliver a surprising amount of extra interior space, especially if it comes with a corresponding increase in beam. A boat is a boat, but some boats are more boat than others. Only you can decide which is right for you but there is one rule you must adhere to, enjoyment is compulsory.
Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
53
Q&A
Your Questions Answered
Boat tool box
Q I like to think I am reasonably competent at fixing and maintaining
mechanical things and would like to put a boat tool box together so that I have a chance of fixing any minor problem that might occur when I am onboard. What tools should I include to give me the best chance of having what I need?
A The basis of a good tool kit is that it contains all the tools you need to tackle
the sort of running repairs likely required during a trip. What these jobs are will come down to your level of expertise as much as anything else. Assuming a good all-round knowledge, the next thing to think about are the likely problems. In the years of running cruises in company, the faults that crop up most are failed raw water impeller, blocked fuel filters and broken drive belts. Therefore, as a minimum, you should consider carrying spanners or sockets to loosen all the bolts that tension the various drive belts, as well as a small pry bar to help tension them again, tools to remove the water pump cover, or maybe the whole pump if yours is a boat that requires this to change an impeller, an impeller removal tool and the tools required to remove the style of fuel filter fitted, whether that be a filter chain or strap or the correct sized spanner. If you run a petrol boat, then a plug spanner is another obvious contender. On top of this I would add a set of spanners, either metric or imperial to match your engine, or preferably both, and up to around 24mm or 1 inch, a socket set covering similar sizes, and a selection of screwdrivers both flat head and Philips style in various sizes. Then to this I would add some general tools such as locking grips and pliers, a hammer (yes really) and an adjustable spanner for that one nut or bolt, and there always is one, that will not be covered by your spanners and sockets. Another common type of breakdown is caused by electrical problems. For this reason I would also suggest a simple multi-meter, some wire cutters, wire strippers and a terminal crimping tool. To these electrical tools I would recommend you also add some lengths of wire of various thickness, crimps of varying sizes and some insulating or self amalgamating tape, the latter also being useful as a temporary fix on pipework and hoses. No boat tool kit should be without some WD40, or similar, to help release parts that don’t move, and some duct style tape, selection of cable ties and a few hose clamps of different sizes to stop things from moving that shouldn’t. One final addition is a small mirror so you can see bits of the engine that are underneath, behind and in the other inaccessible places faults tend to materialise. 54
December 2020
If you have a question, email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Ford Powamarine engine
Q I have bought myself a project boat
that comes with a six cylinder, normally aspirated, diesel engine. The markings on the engine include Powamarine, Ford and a plate indication it is 120HP at 2500rpm. Can you tell me what engine it is?
A Powamarine were a marinisation outfit in Sussex who have long since
disappeared. The Ford markings at least tell us this marinised engine is Ford based and, looking at the pictures you have supplied, I would say you have a 6.22 litre 2715E, which was one of the ‘Dorset’ engines produced by Ford in the 70’s, primarily for their D series trucks. This engine was rated to 120hp and although Ford themselves did not produce a marine version, it was widely marinised by a number of companies including Mermaid, Lehman, Thornycroft, Sabre and Powamarine, amongst many others. It is possible that your engine is a slightly newer 2725E ‘Dover’ version. These were produced through the 1980’s and look almost identical to the 2715E, but usually came with a few more HP, although 120hp versions were available. One of your photos has a ‘78’ sneaking into the edge of frame. I would stick my neck out and say this is the build year, ie 1978, and you have the former. If you need any help, advice or spares for your marinised Ford, I can recommend contacting Lancing Marine who are experts in Ford based marinisation and offer lots of spares for the Ford 2700 range, right up to whole reconditioned engines.
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Q&A
Your Questions Answered
Volvo Penta AQ131 service
Q I have bought my first boat during lockdown and am really
enjoying my new hobby. I have what might appear to be a silly question. When it comes to servicing the engine, is it the same as a car? I have a Volvo AQ131, which I understand was fitted to Volvo cars, so does it use the same oil, filters, belts etc? Is there anything special about servicing this engine that I may not be able to tackle, given a lifetime of servicing cars?
A Quite simply, there is very little difference with the engine. Some of the
components, both internal and external, may be different to those fitted to the car version, but oil, oil filters and spark plugs are all the same. There may be a difference in the belts, but if you can read the size of the belts currently on the engine, any good quality automotive belt of the same size will do the job. Sometimes the marine version will use a different distributor, so the cap and rotor arm may be different to the car version. This is the case on my AQ151, which is built on the same base engine as the AQ131. I also found that the spark plug leads are routed differently and require longer ones than the automotive version. The major difference with this engine in a boat, compared to a car, is in the cooling system. With no air flow across the engine, the marine version swaps a radiator for a heat exchanger and sends sea/river water through it to cool the engine’s coolant rather than air. Consider this the ‘radiator’ and simply remove the cap, when cold, to check levels like you would in a car. Top up with a suitable water/ antifreeze mix, if required. With a boat, you have another consideration that is usually neglected in cars, the gearbox. On your boat this is the drive hanging from the transom, and this requires lots of regular maintenance to avoid expensive bills. Here, there is no cross-reference to a car, but the servicing requirements are all quite straightforward for anyone mechanically minded. Basic servicing consists of changing the oil and replacing the seals on the dipstick, drain and fill points, replacing the rubber bellows that cover the drive shaft and exhaust, changing the anodes and keeping the paintwork in good order. If you are unsure, get the drive professionally serviced and if you find water in the oil the drive will require further investigative work and remedial action that could involve replacing drive shaft oil seals or other more in depth jobs. We have covered many of these tasks in MBO, so do have a look through our back issues and good luck. 56
December 2020
If you have a question, email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
New shaft for two-stroke outboard
Q I have a Marina 16 with an old two-stroke 40hp Yamaha
on the back that has a vibration when underway. I have noticed that the propshaft appears very slightly bent, enough to visually see it when turning the prop by hand, and I’m guessing this is the source of the problem. I believe the engine model number is 6H4. Can a new shaft still be sourced for this engine?
A I believe the part number you need is 6794561101, but
you will need to double-check this with a Yamaha dealer by quoting your engine serial number. If that is correct, I understand the part is still available, although tracking one down may not be easy and, I suspect, not very affordable. An alternative is to remove your bent shaft and take it to a precision engineering firm who, for a small fee, should be able to gently straighten the shaft for you. I had this done many years ago on a 10hp outboard, and that engine went on to provide years of vibration free service afterwards.
Prop cleaning
Q Our bronze props came out of the water covered in
barnacles and once we have removed these we still have lots of little hard rings where they were attached. We also have what looks like limescale on large parts of the blades and hub, all of which are taking a lot of effort to remove. Is there something I can put on the props to help dissolve all this hard fouling?
A There are products designed for this, such as Starbrite’s Boat Bottom Cleaner, which you should find in your local chandlery. The active ingredient to this, and other similar products, appears to be oxalic acid at 5%. In truth, any weak acid based cleaner will have the same effect with many boat owners reporting good results with brick and mortar cleaner, a 5% hydrochloric acid product available from DIY stores. Despite their low concentrations, these products should always be used with great care and with protection for your eyes and skin.
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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Guernsey Troon Bonnie on the Clyde. We discover one unassuming Ayrshire town and all-tides visitor haven where you are assured of a warm welcome
C
ruising the west coast of Scotland is truly magnificent. Endless empty skies, with captivating, ever changing light colouring the undulating landscapes of mountains and islands. For the boater heading north, the Firth of Clyde is the gateway into Scotland’s heartland. This sheltered cruising area stretches from the city of Glasgow,
located on the banks of the River Clyde, northwards to Loch Fyne and to the Mull of Kintyre in the south. Offering many sheltered, all-tides marinas and anchorages with excellent opportunities to explore the many coastal villages, towns, harbours and attractions, both on the Ayrshire coast and its beautiful islands, including Arran, lying in the south west.
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December 2020
Destination
TROON
©TroonYachtHaven Cr inan
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ARGYLL
RIVER
CLYD E
Inverkip
BUTE Rothesay
GREAT CUMBRAE
Largs Fairlie
Millport
Hunterston
ARRAN
Lamlash Harbour
Located on the Ayrshire coast, overlooking the Isle of Arran, lies the town of Troon, a truly unspoilt seaside resort. The name ‘Troon’ is said to come from the Celtic word ‘Trwyn’ meaning headland or point. This is a fair description, as its rocky peninsular projects out between two broad sandy bays, creating a natural sheltered harbour that was used by early seafarers. A railway link and coal saw the town prosper when, in 1808, docks were developed on its north side of the rocky headland. This
FIRTH OF CLYDE
Ardrossan
Troon
commission by the Duke of Portland saw Troon established as one of the top ten coal ports in Britain. A car-ferrybuilding shipyard, called Ailsa-Troon, and a lifeboat station arrived in the 1800s too. Up until 2016, Troon was a car ferry terminal, with P&O Ferries and Seacat Scotland operating services to Larne and Belfast. Today, Troon is an excellent place to sample Scotland in more ways than one. To have ‘a wee dram’ (a drop of malt
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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whisky), taste some authentic Scottish tablet and enjoy freshly prepared creamy fish soup, Cullen Skink. Troon boasts a sandy beach, seafront promenade, shops, cafÊs and restaurants. A keen golfer is likely to know Troon’s links with the game, as it is surrounded by no more than six golf courses, with the town hosting the Open Championship in 2004 and then again in 2016. The old docks are now a thriving port, home to a commercial fishing fleet in a dedicated basin, and various wharfs handle over 100,000 tonnes of timber each year. Thought to be one of the first marinas
to be built on the Firth of Clyde, the inner dock basin was transformed into a marina in 1978 by a consortium led by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston. Located in the southern approach to the Firth of Clyde, the sheltered 400-berth, all-tides marina, operated by Yacht Havens, is seen as an important visitor springboard and base for exploration of the Clyde. The marina boasts superb facilities, including an excellent restaurant, and the town is just a short walk away where there is a supermarket, shops, banks, eateries and a post office. In the last year the Yacht Haven group has built the Salt Lodge, a
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December 2020
Destination
TROON
Distances
Salt Lodge, is a new ‘Scandi-Scot’ styled self catering and B&B hotel at Troon Yacht Haven
complex of one-and-two-bedroom selfcatering suites, making Troon a very viable prospect for trailboaters and also crew overspill for berthholders.
Approaches
Access to the marina is available at all states of tide. However, like many destinations, it is best avoided in strong wind conditions, particularly onshore, and careful examination of a chart and tide direction is advised prior to a visit. Those travelling from the north will need to keep well offshore to avoid Lappock Rock, which is located a mile
Approximate distances in nautical miles from Troon Harbour: • Lamlash Harbour 13.5 miles • Ardrossen 8 miles • Largs Yacht Haven 20 miles • Kip Marina 29 miles • Tarbert 33 miles • Holy Loch 34 miles • Crinan 49 miles
Weather & Tides
• Shipping Forecast Malin • Inshore Waters Mull of Galloway to Mull of Kintyre including the Firth of Clyde and North Channel • Troon Yacht Haven Webcam • Actuals Campbeltown Airport • BBC Coastal Forecast Firth of Clyde and North Channel • BBC Weather Troon • XC Weather forecast Troon • Troon Yacht Haven Tide Tables
Charts & Pilot Books
• Imray 2900 Firth of Clyde Chart Pack • Imray C63 Firth of Clyde • Admiralty SC5610 Firth of Clyde chart folio • Imray Clyde Cruising Club Firth of Clyde pilot book • Imray Clyde Cruising Club Cruising Scotland pilot book • Imray NP222 Tidal stream Atlas Firth of Clyde All are available at www.imray.com. Use offer code ‘TROON2020’ for 20% off and free UK carriage. Offer expires 31st January 2021.
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FIRTH OF CLYDE
C r inan
TROON APPROACHES
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ARGYLL
RIVER
DREDGED AREA maintained 5m
CLYD E
Inverkip
BUTE
West Pier East Pier Ferry ramp (Disused)
Rothesay CRAB ROCK GREAT CUMBRAE
Largs Fairlie
Millport
Hunterston WEST DOCK
Fishing Harbour
Ardrossan
not to be used for navigation
ARRAN Lamlash Harbour
FIRTH OF CLYDE
DRY DOCK
Timber Plant
Troon
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DRY DOCK
A B
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Troon Yacht Haven
Troon looks out towards Arran. Access is straightforward with a few well charted rocky isles
north of the harbour and marked by a concrete beacon. Then, pass west of Mill Rock, which has a port approach marker to the south west of it. A yellow special mark lies on the edge of the dredged port approach area, and immediately north of the entrance which is open to the northnorth-east.
Approaches from the south can be on either side of a cluster of rocks south west of the entrance, Lady Isle being the largest of these and marked by a white tower (white light at night) followed by Scart Rock, at its north end. Be wary of your proximity to Troon Rock lying approximately 1 mile west of the entrance.
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December 2020
Destination
TROON
Mooring charges
Troon Yacht Haven 01292 315553 VHF 80 www.yachthavens.com 10m Overnight £29.50 10m Week £147.50 10m Month £570 10m Annual £3,650 Distinctive white lighthouse on the West Pier
With depths over it of around 5 metres, this patch could be hazardous in a swell. Pass north of Crab Rock green navigation buoy, then bear around to the east for the entrance. Troon Harbour’s West Pier and the outer harbour is easily identified by its white lighthouse. Call the marina on VHF channel 80, callsign ‘Troon Yacht Haven’ or telephone 01292 315553 on your final approach, obeying the port traffic signals before entering. Monitor AIS and be on the lookout for commercial traffic and fishing vessels that may be departing or entering the harbour, as these may be
Where to fill up
There is a 24-hour fuel berth serving diesel at Troon Yacht Haven in the western corner of the marina. This alongside pontoon is found by proceeding between pontoon A and the west basin wall. There is a handy dedicated webcam for the fuel berth. Unleaded is available in cans from the nearby Morrisons supermarket which is a level 15-minute walk away.
Marine supplies
The Troon Chandlery is located within the Yacht Haven Marina Office and stocks many essentials such as ropes, calor and camping gaz, cleaning and paint products, and lifejackets. As it is within the marina office it is open and staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Yacht Haven Boatyard (01292 315553) is equipped with a 50-tonne hoist and 20-tonne mobile crane, with hardstanding. West Coast Marine Services (UK) Ltd (01292 318121, based at the Yacht Haven, offers undercover repair facilities and marine engineering services. Also on site is Troon Yacht Services (07895 211620), offering maintenance and repair services.
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hidden behind the entrance piers. Visitors should also monitor VHF channel 14 for commercial shipping movement announcements. Pass through the outer harbour in a south easterly direction towards the inner harbour, passing the commercial basin and the Troon RNLI station on your starboard side. The fairly narrow entrance to the inner harbour is marked by red beacons to port and a sloping bank to starboard. Inside there is a minimum depth below chart datum (CD) of 2.4m, with several areas having deep water berths with 3m below CD.
Where to moor
Upon entering the inner harbour the marina opens up on your starboard side, with six pontoon fingers extending into
the fairway north to south, each side named alphabetically A to L, west to east. The marina can accommodate up to 50 visitors with berths usually allocated on an adhoc basis. All berths have access to fresh water, electricity and free Wi-Fi. Making arrangements prior to visiting is advisable. Visitors are charged ÂŁ2.95 per metre per night and you are sure to be impressed with the facilities at this five gold anchor marina. Visitors staying five nights will also get two extra nights free. In the main marina building are toilet and shower facilities (including a bath for ladies), as well as a laundry with a weather display screen and a book swap facility. Berthed in the marina, the smell of the timber is hypnotic, like a warm log cabin, while the stacked logs are a fascinating, photographers dream and the gentle
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Destination
TROON
Transport
Troon has excellent rail connections to nearby major town of Irvine and the city of Glasgow. It is also only a short distance from GlasgowPrestwick Airport. To get to Irvine (33 minutes), you can catch bus number 14 from the stop in Jubilee Road (outside Morrisons) or the next stop in Northshore Road. Alternatively, it is just two stops and an 8-minute journey via Scot Rail services from Troon Station. Glasgow is a 40-minute train journey. The stunning new Salt Lodge at the marina opens up possibilities for trailboaters and visitors
groan of the crane is soothing. Very occasionally, a strong southerly wind can whips up sea foam that wafts over the peninsular. This will no doubt leave you feeling reassuringly snug and smug for the facilities around you.
Trailboating
There is an excellent all tides slipway at Troon Yacht Haven, it is a fairly-wide, gradual-sloping concrete ramp which has inset rails, and lies conveniently next to the fuel berth. Launching and recovery on the slipway is charged each way, priced at £8 for boats up to 6 metres and £10 for boats over 6.1 metres. An annual pass for the slipway is also available priced at £155 for boats up to 6 metres and £200 for those over 6.1 metres. Trailer storage can be arranged on a daily, weekly, monthly or seasonal basis, with the marina offering discounts on weekly and monthly
Food supplies
There is a fairly large Morrisons supermarket (with an ATM) on the waterfront in Dukes Road, past Templehill. This is a 15-minute, 0.7mile walk from the marina and is open 7am-10pm Mon-Sat and 8am8pm Sun. There are also a couple of butchers, a fishmonger called ‘Pier’, a greengrocer and a deli in the town centre. Closer to the marina, the Harbour Bar runs a small newstand convenience store next door, selling freshly made rolls and supplies.
Further afield
Lamlash Harbour is ideal for discovering Arran, and other west coast favourites include Tarbert, Oban and Tobermory. Moving north from Troon, marinas include Ardrossen’s Clyde Marina, Largs Yacht Haven, Kip Marina and James Watt Dock Marina. The publications Welcome Anchorages and Sail Scotland are very useful for cruising.
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TROON MAP
C
Railway Slipway
10
9
C
KEY
Cashpoint Fuel
1 Marina Office & facilities 2 Scotts Troon
Troon Station
1
Morrisons
Bus stop
2
The Harbour Shop
Centre & shops
3
Spar
Footpath
4
Farmfoods
Chandlery
5
Pier fishmonger
3 The Salt Lodge 4 The Harbour Bar 5 Lido 6 Cookie Jar 7 The Jar 8 The Strawberry Cushion 9 Wee Hurrie 10 The Oyster Bar
1 C
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C 2 2
4
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C4
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AC H
It’s a short walk to town from the marina. The red-painted Harbour Bar, Wee Hurrie and Oyster Bar
visitor berthing. The marina welcomes trailboaters, with friendly Marina Director, Stephen Bennie, saying that for those who take a berth, the office will waive their slipway launch fees. For those day boating without onboard accommodation, the Salt Lodge is ideal. Located right next to the slipway, it offers superbly modern and exquisitely furnished self-catering suites, all with marina views, many with waterfront terraces or balconies. It is an excellent idea for families and some of the suites are dog friendly too.
occasion. The excellent menu features a few traditional Scottish dishes too, such as delicious Cullen Skink, a creamy and very filling smoked haddock and potato soup. It is open for breakfast as well and we can thoroughly recommend the ‘Buzzworks’ fried breakfast or the Egg Royale with smoked salmon. There are two more hidden eatery gems well worth seeking out on the marina peninsular, past the timberyards and overlooking Troon’s commercial fishing harbour, they are the Wee Hurrie and the Oyster Bar, which are both run by MacCallums of Troon. The Wee Hurrie is very different to your average ‘hole in A visit to the marina’s on-site restaurant the wall’ fish and chip takeaway, as it has and bar, Scotts (01292 315315) is a must, a bewildering choice of fish and seafood the food is good value and deliciously high on offer. Fresh from the fish market next quality, and its interior décor is absolutely door, it offers lobster, sea bass, prawns, stunning too. Located on the first floor salmon, whiting and scallops. As well as and open 7 days a week, its covered chips, accompaniments include noodles, terrace-cum-conservatory provides a with grilled chicken and Cullen Skink view over the marina and beyond, and is also on the menu. Queues can be long, the place to be day or night, any time of particularly in current covid times, but the year. Popular with locals and boaters it is well worth the wait. Adjoined to alike, it caters for most ages and tastes, the Wee Hurrie, the Oyster Bar (01292 whether it is for a quick bite or a special 319339) is an eclectic restaurant, not only
Where to eat and drink
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December 2020
©ScottsTroon
Destination Destination TROON TROON
Delicious food and a great view. The Yacht Yaven has a superb chain restaurant on site called Scotts
selling fish and seafood, but steak, pastas and chicken. Suitable for families too, it is open for lunches and evening meals. If you are looking for a pub for a pint or a bite to eat, then the red-painted Harbour Bar overlooking the manicured greens of Templehill is recommended. This dog friendly, Sunday-roast and breakfastserving ‘proper pub’ is a short walk from the marina. With signs outside saying ‘Today’s soup-Whisky!’ and ‘Home of the Hobo steak’ are just a taste of its friendly, family-run character. In Troon itself there is a good choice of independent cafes, tea rooms and restaurants, including the cosy Strawberry Cushion. There is also Lido Troon, which
is part of the Scotts/Buzzworks franchise, and therefore is another tasty, high quality eatery offering breakfasts, light bites, lunches and evening meals. For those that love a ‘wee dram’ (a drop of whisky) or a gin, tastings can be arranged at the malt whisky shop in Troon’s Ayr Street, The Jar.
Places to see and visit
Troon is an excellent place for walking, and just a short walk through the marina’s adjacent housing estate is Troon’s sweeping seafront, with steep grassy banks leading to its promenade and sandy beach. Truly unspoilt, you will pass many immaculately manicured flowerbeds
©VisitScotland/Paul Tomkins
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©VisitScotland
and gardens along the way. Such pride is displayed throughout the waterfront and it feels very welcoming. Those out for more than just a stroll can join the Ayrshire Coast Path leading north and south. Bus and rail routes, taking between 8-33 minutes, will take you northwards to the major town of Irvine, which has an interesting historic harbour and excellent shopping. Here the Rivergate Shopping Centre straddles the River Irvine, featuring many big brands, and for those who don’t ‘do’ shopping, there is the captivating Scottish Maritime Museum. Those who like to shop should head for Troon’s main shopping street, Portland Street, and also Ayr Street. The town has a good selection of shops with a mix of independent and larger, big brand stores, including Boots, Poundland, M&Co, New Look and the Original Factory Shop. However, a visit to one particular shop is essential. The Cookie Jar sells many varieties of the Scottish delicacy known as tablet. Like a hard fudge, tablet is a sugary confection that is made from sugar, condensed milk, and butter, and is often flavoured with vanilla or whisky. Be warned, it is delicious and very ‘moreish’. For the keen golfer there is, of course, a choice of ranges, including the Royal Troon Golf Club that overlooks the
The 14th century Dundonald Castle is closeby
Clyde. However, for the historian, the 14th century hilltop fortified ruin that is Dundonald Castle is just 5 miles away. Easily accessible by public transport (bus number 10) or by taxi, the castle is described as one of Scotland’s most unexplored and fascinating heritage treasures. It was the home to King Robert II, the grandson of Robert the Bruce and boasts historic links to the Stewart dynasty and the Cochrane family, who were favourites of Charles II. Finally, for those who prefer to be afloat, Lamlash Harbour on the Isle of Arran is a popular day anchorage. Nestled behind Holy Isle and just a 13-nauticalmile cruise from Troon Yacht Haven, it is a beautiful spot with numerous visitor buoys available, and ashore, there is a tearoom, a pub and various shops. MBO
©VisitScotland/Paul Tomkins
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December 2020
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU IN 2020 MARINAS
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Hooked Simon Everett shows us how to revive and service ABU Ambassadeur multiplier reels
F
ishing with a smooth running, reliable reel is much more pleasant than using one that rattles and graunches, or where the drag is grabby. A reel that doesn’t function properly, or one that has a sticky drag will lose you fish, and Sod’s Law dictates that it will be a big fish, probably your best yet. It’s not just a myth that the biggest ones get away, big fish put a greater strain on your tackle and will find any weakness in the system. Keeping your reel running sweetly doesn’t take any great effort, usually just a quick rinse at the end of the day. I carry a 2-litre milk tub of fresh water for the purpose. All I do is lean the rods, with reels attached, against the car and splash the water liberally over the reels and rod fittings to wash the salt away before it has time to do any lasting damage. Once a year I completely strip and service my reels, one at a time on quiet evenings. If you stagger these service
periods you won’t face the daunting prospect of having to do all of them at once. Do the reel you use the most first, and work backwards. A reel that only sees occasionally use shouldn’t need much work anyway, provided it was properly cleaned and oiled when it was last used. Use good lubricants that do the job well. I use the blue Yamaha Waterproof Grease that is designed to protect and lubricate outboard motors in the worst environments on Earth, it is ideal for fishing reels and lasts years, keeping saltwater out of contact with the metal parts of your reel and lubricating the gears and parts that slide. For bearings or bushes REEL-X is a special product that provides extreme lubrication, but it needs to be used very sparingly. Many people use as much on one bearing as you need for the entire reel, but this is a lubricant where less is definitely more, a fine needle can be used to smear tiny amounts of Reel-X onto the surfaces that need it. Many anglers I talk to are fearful of opening their reels up, but there is nothing very complicated inside, it is only gear wheels, springs and levers. Be methodical and have everything to hand before you start. Take note of how things come apart. A quick picture on your phone before you start is not a bad idea, it can be used as a reference when you come to reassemble. Many good quality reels come supplied with the correct tools needed for maintenance but, if not, a spanner to undo
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the handle nut, a screwdriver to undo the sideplate screws and possibly a circlip plier are all you need. On top of this you just need your consumables, brake or carburettor cleaner, Yamaha blue grease and REEL-X and plenty of kitchen paper or fine cotton rags for cleaning. A tray to work on helps keep everything confined and prevents small parts from rolling on the floor and getting lost. A couple of small tubs, such as clean yoghurt pots, is an alternative way of keeping things together. Each section of the reel can be put in one pot together, to prevent confusion. Once you have successfully worked on one reel, the remainder won’t
The reel as it was delivered, seized solid. Its star wheel was seized on the shaft. It wouldn’t go into free spool and the handle wouldn’t turn at all
seem so daunting. The first time you use the reel will bring a smile to your face as you feel the difference a good service makes.
MULTIPLIER REEL RESTORATION IN 36 STEPS
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First take off the plastic cap covering the handle retaining nut. It was totally encrusted with salt underneath and required soaking 5
Remove the left sideplate (held on by three screws). If it needs persuasion, very carefully tap it off from inside the frame
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Scrub the nut with a toothbrush and warm water to remove the salt. Apply Reel-X and allow the thread to soak overnight 6
The nylon levelwind gear is held on its shaft by a spring C-clip. Using a flat screwdriver pressed against the jaws of the clip, remove it
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Three screws around the edge of the sideplate allow the entire handle side to be removed in one
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With the drive side removed the spool can be taken out of the frame. A thick coating of salt was over everything 8
The nylon gear that drives With the C-clip removed the levelwind sits inside the nylon gear wheel just the left hand sideplate. lifts off the stub shaft It was reasonably clean inside
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The levelwind is held in place by a spring plate that slides over lugs on the frame
The spring steel levelwind retainer simply swings off the studs with your fingers
Undo the nut and remove the pawl follower from the levelwind housing to allow the worm drive to come out of the hollow bar
The levelwind components will come apart like this
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A circle spring clip holds the brake block holder in place, remove it
The brake holder will then lift straight off the recess in the spool flange
The nylon gear from the opposite end of the spool simply pulls out
The merest drop of REEL-X is all that is needed on each bearing, an entire drop is too much
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With the spool cleaned The levelwind components and the bearings oiled you need to be thoroughly can replace the cleaned cleaned brake assembly
Soak the levelwind, left hand sideplate and the other components in paraffin
Brush paraffin on liberally with a soft paintbrush to get into the nooks and crannies
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Lubricate and protect Lightly coat the gear teeth Refit the levelwind gear surfaces from saltwater by with Yamaha blue grease. and the C-clip that holds applying a film of Yamaha it in place waterproof grease
Clean and then coat the frame with blue grease and refit the levelwind
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Fitting the levelwind into the frame, ensure the wire loop is in the groove of the top bar
With the salt brushed off, the combined affects of the Reel-X and paraffin allowed the brass nut to unscrew
Under the handle there is a thin, oval spring washer which lifts off. The star wheel can be unscrewed until it comes off the main shaft
With the star wheel removed, undo the two small machine screws that hold the gear plate into the right hand casing
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The side casing lifts off the gear plate. Although caked in salt the internals were actually in pretty good condition
Cleaned with a rag soaked in paraffin and, once dry, coated with Yamaha grease, the right hand sideplate looked like new
Lift the complete main gear assembly off the shaft
Take note of the order of the drag stack as you remove them, these are the small washers on the gear shaft
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Then remove the clutch plate and main gear
A leather, or felt, drag The pinion gear is held washer sits inside the in by a plastic yolk that brass main gear. Take it out simply slides out and inspect it. If not split clean it for reassembly
Clean each part, lubricate and reassemble on the gear plate. The antireverse dog has copper jaws which go either side of the main gear
Job done. The reel re-assembled and working perfectly. It needed no spare parts, just cleaning and lubricating
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CLASSIC CRUISERS
a complete guide to the best boats on the used market
Broom 39/395 P icture this, waking up in a cabin that offers private, home-from-home walkaround space, with your very own morning landscape provided through aft windows as the sun streams in, ensuite facilities and storage in abundance at your disposal. The kind of comfort that means, perhaps for a second, you forget where you are. Well, that is the feeling you get from an aft cabin, and there is no better illustration of this than aboard an aft cabin Broom. Step aboard any aft cabin Broom
today and you are bound to immediately feel at home. Based at Brundall, Broom was one of the longest established boat builders in the UK, building boats from 1898 until 2018 when it closed its production factory doors. In that time it had, however, created a niche in the aft cabin market, with many of its models still highly prized today. The 39kl is one such example. It all started with the Ocean 38/38cl, which was a two cabin, single or twin engine aft
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Built 2002-2018 (44 39/26 395) Prices then 39 £246,162 (2003) Prices then 395 £348,542 (2012) Prices now £145,000-£250,000 Length 39/395 39ft 6in / 12.04m Beam 13ft / 3.96m Draught 3ft 6in / 1.06m Air Draught arch 3.75m windscreen 10ft 8in / 3.25m Fuel 200-212 gallons Water 100-103 gallons Displacement 10363kg approx
cabin cruiser. Between 1996 and 2002, 64 38s were built, and the model was a taste of what was to come from the talented designer, Andrew Wolstenholme. In fact the late 90s saw a new wave of modern and shapely Wolstenholme designs, with the historic builder redefining its ranges, and two clear categories emerged, Offshore and Coastal. In 2002 Broom began phasing out the 38 model and Wolstenholme was commissioned to update its design. Three
main improvements were made, a larger bathing platform, with moulded steps for better access over the 38’s ladder, a deeper keel for improved handling and a sharper window design. It would be styled on the 42cl, with era-characteristic elongated, tear drop ‘eyebrow’ windows and a stylish black central mullion in its windscreen. It would also have the 42cl’s clever cabriolet canopy system. Inside, the successful interior layout remained unchanged. With ‘kl’ standing for keel, the 39kl was unveiled
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The 39kl morphed into the 395. It has a longer aft cockpit and modern black frameless windows
at the January 2003 London Boat Show priced from ÂŁ264k with twin engines. In 2004 Broom introduced a 2+2 variation of the 39kl. Designed to accommodate two couples, this provided a larger saloon and two ensuite cabins. Then, in 2008, the 39kl morphed into the 395, which was priced from ÂŁ340k. The main difference here was that Broom had extended the aft cockpit all the way to the transom, and reinstated a side deck access door each side, as seen on its predecessor, the Ocean 38, and sister Offshore models in the range. Despite some updates to the bathing platform, its interior layout remained unaltered, with standard and 2+2 layouts still available. The company, CJ Broom, was sold in 2010, and the new investors restyled the 395, offering a split galley layout from 2012 which made way for a double forward cabin. Broom built 44 39kls between 20032010, including a handful of 2+2 versions. In the case of the 395, 16 were built by CJ Broom and, after the company was sold, 11 were built by Broom Boats 2010-2018.
Interior Without exception, Broom interiors are both practical and welcoming. On the 39 two people could happily spend several weeks aboard, with enough space and storage to match these requirements. Its interior follows the traditional layout of the 38 and 42, with an aft master ensuite cabin, with separate shower and toilet, and a V-berth forward cabin. The six-berth accommodation is arranged over two levels and offers decent, circa 6ft headroom throughout. When you make your way down the port side companionway stairs, slightly stooping to get through the curved door, a spacious saloon area greets you. Surrounding windows provide 180-degree views and fill the living space with light. Curtains block out two thirds of this, with blinds, from the likes of Oceanair, or an exterior cover to offer additional privacy at the windscreen. To starboard, an inviting U-shaped seating area with a small portable coffee table-cum-storage unit is perfect for lounging or entertaining,
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Two layout options. A standard version with side door and 2+2 with a larger saloon/dining area
seating up to six people. On the port side is a sideboard unit incorporating storage cabinets for drinks or a flat screen TV, if fitted. Like the 38, standard 39s have a sliding side door and open steps on the port side. Level with the central stanchion gate, this is a convenient place for boarding or passing heavy shopping bags straight from pontoon to the galley area when alongside. The 2+2 model has no side door and offers a larger, one-level saloon with two seating areas. The standard starboard U-shaped dinette area is now adorned with larger table and forward, on the port side, there is a smaller corner settee, ideal for lounging and entertaining. Moving forward, and down three steps, on the starboard side you will find a goodsize, U-shaped galley that is perfectly
appointed for liveaboard cruising and catering for a hungry family. A guardrail divides the two areas, however one example had a low bulkhead and a door, we presume that the customer had small children or dogs. Galley features include an Avonite worktop with a three-burner hob, a one and a half sinks, and an inset bin (often now with a hinged top). Below the fiddled worktop is a large fridge, a gas oven/grill and a shelved storage locker under the sink. Broom’s copious storage continues with a bank of eye level cupboards aft and an optional unit available above the hob. All-electric boats,
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There is a V-berth in the forecabin as standard, but customisable options included triple bunks
and those benefitting from generator power, have a microwave recessed into the galley cabinetry. Opposite the galley is a fairly private lower dinette area. This will seat five to six adults comfortably around a pedestal table and converts into a double berth 3-4ft wide. The 2+2 version sees this lower dinette removed in order to make way for a larger forward cabin area and a utility cupboard immediately opposite the galley. A split galley layout, introduced later in the evolution of the 395, saw
galley features spread across two adjacent worktops. On the starboard side is a toilet compartment or day loo. This moulded, wash-down compartment is an excellent size and incorporates a shower with a separate control knob, a sea toilet, storage and a moulded washbasin. The compartment is lined with a creamcoloured gelcoat as standard, with a choice of basin colours, blue, green or oatmeal. The forward cabin is a fairly traditional format, offering two berths in a V-berth
The lower dinette converts to a double. The U-shaped galley is perfect for liveaboard cruising 78
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2003 39kl £149,950 (featured) Twin Yanmar 6LPA DTP 260hp Tingdene Boat Sales 01189 477 770 www.tingdeneboatsales.net
2003 39kl £164,500 (featured) Twin Yanmar 6LP-STE 315hp Tingdene Boat Sales 01189 477 770 www.tingdeneboatsales.net The forward day loo has a separate shower control
configuration. The berths themselves are deceptively long (6ft 3in), and there is ample space for one to dress, with a wardrobe on the port side and an under-berth drawer each side. Our only criticism would be, like the 38, it is quite a dark cabin, with the points of the deck level windows (the port one opening), and a high escape hatch providing daylight, but it is perfectly comfortable. The 2+2 version sees the cabin door moved further aft in order to incorporate the now dual door ensuite toilet compartment. Again, an upgrade for the 395 saw a double island berth option in the forward cabin, with separate ensuite toilet and shower compartments. Moving aft, through the saloon, and down the companionway, leads you to a small lobby/ corridor area. To starboard there is a storage
2005 39kl 2+2 €198,000 Twin Yanmar 6LPA DTP 260hp De Vaart Yachting 0031 320 21 23 41 www.devaartyachting.com
2006 39kl €218,000 Twin Volvo Penta D6-310 De Vaart Yachting 0031 320 21 23 41 www.devaartyachting.com
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cupboard where Broom would have fitted a washing machine, if specified. More often than not this space is used for storage of larger items, such as vacuum cleaners, or a full-length wardrobe or coat locker. With limited storage for kit in the cockpit, such as brooms and buckets, these can overspill into here. Ideal as a tools and spares ‘shed’, metal racking or shelved storage would work well in here too.
Master ensuite toilet and shower compartments
Open the aft cabin door and a very spacious full beam master suite awaits. Inside, a large central double island bed dominates the space, measuring 6ft by 5ft, and storage cabinets line each side, with a mirrored dresser to starboard and a hanging locker on each side. Two escape hatches in the transom provide a lovely view out across the water, and side windows project plenty of light with opening sections for ventilation. On the port side there is a dedicated moulded shower cubicle, with an integrated seat and excellent Perspex-fronted ‘lotions and potions’ storage. To starboard is a good size ensuite toilet compartment, again offering storage. Note that the shower compartment does not have an opening window so ensure that the extractor is fitted and working. This will need to be left on for a good while after showering to avoid mould in here. The boat’s 100-gallon
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Navigation equipment could be dated. Its cabriolet, pram-style forward canopy is absolute genius
water tank is located under the double berth. Ensure that you lift the carpet and inspect the surrounding wood bases, particularly either side of the bed, as staining could indicate a leak. A hatch at the bed head end reveals the steering gear and an emergency tiller. When exploring the boat, it is important to remember that Broom rarely built boats for stock, so you can expect a degree of in-build customer customisation, and it is fair to say that rarely two boats will be exactly the same. Different wood finishes, carpets and upholstery often being the tip of the iceberg. The bow cabin on one of the first 39kls has a triple bunk bed arrangement. Inside there are two fairly standard size overlapping bunks plus a smaller lower berth, which would be great for a family with three kids. The same boat also had shelving inside the forward cabin hanging locker and above the lower dinette, and a locker above the side door steps. These are all clever ideas making use of what is otherwise dead space. Storage in the lower dinette and saloon seat bases is
a disappointment, being tricky to access. With no hatches, the cushions and the large, shapely ply tops need to be removed separately. Interior decor and joinery evolved through the transition of models. There was a wide choice of interior furnishings available with the 39kl, such as hardwearing Alcantara or leather, and wood finishes included a light and bright maple or a warmer cherry. After the company was sold, the first three 395s were built in the existing decor style. Then an updated style was developed by a new design team in 2012, and is seen from boat number four, with use of a walnut wood finish. Options for the 39kl/395 included a 4.5kW generator and a holding tank. The holding tank was fitted under the forward companionway floor and the generator is normally tucked tightly in front of the engines to port. Diesel heating was fitted as standard. Cockpit & helm Stepping up and through the aft cockpit
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coaming door, the canopy-enclosed aft cockpit is ‘conservatory-like’ and adaptable for underway or at rest. Immediately to port is a bench seat running fore and aft, capable of seating two, or maybe three at a push. To starboard is a U-shaped seating-cum-dining area with a plastic, fold-out table. Teak versions are available. Making use of the reversible double copilot seat backrest, this aft space is ample for 4-6 people or more, for family dining or entertaining. It is also possible to slide the fully adjustable helm seat forward to create a little more room around the table. The aft locker houses three 4.5kg Calor Gas cylinders, the shaped locker to port is ideal for storage and the starboard locker, which is a bit trickier to get at, houses the windscreen washer tank, if fitted. Here the Broom factory delivered several owner ‘mods’, including a drop-in seat in front of the cockpit transom gate. One owner had also added a draft excluder to the bottom
edge to the cockpit door, which has quite a gap, and so a good idea for keeping heat in and, when underway, engine fumes out. With all seating and the helm offset to starboard, there is a clear walkway to the cabin companionway. Moving to the helm, visibility out through the large twopane windscreen is excellent and dials and navigation equipment thoughtfully arranged across the shapely, grey gelcoat console. Engine dials are set into a long console-width, walnut-effect dash panel forward, with helm and depth/speed instruments displayed in a smaller oval one immediately ahead of the helmsman. There is also a large format chart storage area at the skipper or navigator’s disposal. Navigation equipment is mounted in a lockable cabinet ahead of the co-pilot, with its cover latching open with a clip in the footwell. Broom offered Raymarine equipment options, so this nav station may well be equipped with older 7-inch
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Going topless. Its air draught reduces to a useful 3.25 metres, and often at the touch of a button
portrait format plotters such as an RL70, but can accommodate up to a 12-inch multi-function display like the later C120. With no obvious storage locker under the co-pilot seat base, aftermarket lockers were fitted to this, thus providing much needed additional storage. One of the genius features about these later aft cabin Brooms is the clever cabriolet-pram-style forward canopy. Just unlatch the three clamp fittings and the whole section folds back onto the radar arch. This does involve unzipping two canvas side screens first. It is a fantastic feature that we think the sportscruiser market could ‘pinch’. It is here in the cockpit that another important transformation occurs. With the pram hood open, at the touch of the button, a hydraulic system sees the radar arch fold aft, reducing the air draught to a useful 3.25 metres. Two mast lowering systems were available in build and these were priced identically to the 42cl, the gas ram version being £1643 and hydraulic £4510. With the latter, Broom owners admit to ‘playing chicken’, leaving this function (and its beeping) to the very last minute, fooling bridge onlookers. The
hydraulic system is no longer available from Broom Boats, but spares are. The company does also offer electric mast lowering system installations for 39/395 models priced from £7440. There is a fair amount of canvas to maintain on these boats, so it is beneficial to check that it is all sound. On this boat it is much needed to create the ‘wheelhouse’. and could prove expensive to replace. On deck Fully walkaround 12-inch side decks, sturdy double-height guardrails, abundant grabrails, centre gate access and unexposed chunky deck hardware make the 39kl a joy to crew. Even with a barely negligible slope of Wolstenholme’s
There is a panel in the roof for engine removal
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‘sweeping kick’, the decks are relatively low and boarding from alongside is made possible with a convenient step in the hull side, formed by the teardrop-shaped engine room vent and the corresponding chained central stanchion gate. Boarding from the stern across the bathing platform and up the fairly steep, moulded steps on the port side is easy too, but this route could be hindered by a tender on davits when moored starboard side to. This is something Broom was to address later. The evolution of the 395 saw the bathing platform extended by half a metre in order to incorporate moulded steps each side, as seen on the evolved sister, the 425. It also saw the reintegration of the aft cockpit side doors which, for a single or shorthanded skipper, makes it much easier and quicker to get out on deck. Teak decking was an optional extra in all three versions, with the cockpit, decks and bathing
platform priced separately, all coming all in at £10k. The foredeck and transom are equipped with metal-framed fender baskets, with provision for six standard fenders. Whilst on deck, check that there is an electric windlass, as a manual winch, which is heavy going, was standard. Hull and Handling Aft cabin Brooms are widely renowned as very capable, well built, distance chameleon cruisers, and the 39kl is no exception. Speaking from personal experience, we can’t praise their reassuring performance enough. While the 39kl may not have the fast speeds and planning poise of its Offshore siblings, it certainly has the confidence, an unfaltering ability to stride out and keep up a decent pace when others are forced to slow down. With a similar semi-displacement hull
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Cruising chameleon. It has a semi displacement hull, so is suitable for inland and coastal use
DNA to the 38, the 39kl/395 has a fairly sharp entry at the bow and a deep, three quarter length keel. The bow lifts and the chines push the water aside, while flatter aft sections provide stability and low wake at relaxed inland speeds. It delivers reassuring maneuverability at speed, remaining unbelievably flat in turns, and provides exceptional obedience at close quarters, with the tightest maneuvers possible in tickover. Coming from a Broom Crown to a 39kl, one owner described the low speed handling as far better with the throttles on the 39kl, while the Crown was far more responsive to use of the wheel. Their thinking was it may be due to smaller rudders on the 39kl, which is true enough. The rudders are also sited slightly high of the props. We too at MBO have experienced the 39s ‘wandering’ at low speed, but its excellent throttle handling is perhaps indicative of the 39kl’s more efficient four-bladed props and keel. For that extra bit of reassurance in trickier, cross wind mooring situations, most boats will be fitted with a bowthruster. Broom offered two sizes relating to the tunnel size, 7 inch and 10 inch. It is worth examining the metal rubbing strake with its rubber insert around the
circumference of the boat, paying close attention to the corners of the bathing platform and looking for any shrinkage. A navy blue-coloured gelcoat hull was available, priced from £1,200, and looks stunning. But, will almost certainly need that seasonal polish to maintain its lustre. Engines When it was first introduced in 2002/3 the 39kl was available with no more than five engine options. The one and only single option was a 135hp Perkins M135L offering 9 knots. In a twin configuration it was fitted with 200hp Volvo Penta TAMD41Ps as standard, giving 22 knots. The other options were 250hp Yanmar 6LP-DTEs offering a top speed of 25 knots, 285hp Volvo KAMD300s (26 knots), 265hp Perkins Sabre 265TI (25 knots). Months later 260hp Yanmar 6LPM-DTPs replaced the 250hps and a top option, 315hp Yanmar 6LP-STPs, offered 27 knots. By 2006 the options had evolved with the inclusion of Volvo’s electronicallymanaged D-series engines. Twin D4-225s offered 22 knots, D4-260s (24 knots) and D6-310s offering 26 knots, while the 260hp Yanmars remained available
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It is not possible to get down into the engine bay without lifting carpets and the saloon floor, but there is sufficient access to key items for checks via the aft companionway steps and saloon hatches
throughout the rest of the 39 build. Another host of options came with late 39s and the 395, including four single diesels, a 115hp Nanni, a Volvo Penta 225hp D4 or 370hp D6, and even a 200hp Nanni hybrid. Twins were Volvo 225hp or 260hp D4s, 260hp Yanmars and, top of the range, 330hp D6s. Like most aft cabin boats, engine access is a bit of a compromise, but one that is easily forgiven. Two metal-edged hatches in the saloon floor give day-today, basic access to the top of each engine, the dipsticks, oil and coolant filler caps. The aft cabin companionway stairs also lift for albeit ‘tight’ access to the back of the engines, the seacocks, cylindrical strainers, stern glands and fuel prefilters, the latter are mounted on the aft bulkhead to starboard. Access between the engines from here is usually obstructed by the engine bay fire extinguisher. In the case of the pre filters there is also access through the aft end of the saloon dinette base. Servicing tasks will almost certainly involve rolling back the carpet and lifting the segmented saloon floor,
with the dinette seat bases, flooring and bearers removable for all round access. A narrow central box running between the engines allows you to stand between them and houses the boats batteries. On twinengined boats, access to the outside of the engines is tight, and it is here that you will find the two fuel tanks. Larger fuel tanks were available for longer range cruising forays. Fuel capacity on the 395 2+2 model was increased to two 605-litre tanks (133 gallons). Like its aft cabin sisters, Broom engineered a large removable fibreglass hatch in the 39’s cabin roof, allowing the engines to be taken out if necessary. Upon removing the headlining, this has simply been Sikaflexed in place. The 39kl is fitted with an underwater exhaust system and has a cooling water telltale in the hull side. Most early 39kls are likely to be fitted with Yanmar engines. The more common 260hps giving a cruising speed of 18 knots, with reserve to push on up to 2022 knots. Fitted with twin six-cylinder diesels, the 39kl/395 should offer between 1-1.5 miles per gallon. We have yet to come across a single-engine version, but
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this would be a very economical prospect for relaxed cruising on inland waterways and estuaries. The 395’s single D6 option, giving speeds of up to 16 knots, would also be very attractive. Broom has told us that they built the 39 in a charter specification, known as the 39C, two of which were built for Ireland. Further research revealed that these are fitted with a 115hp diesel. We have also yet to discover a 39 with the TAMD41s. Volvo Penta and Yanmar engines are considered reliable, with good availability of parts, with routine service tasks ‘DIYable’ and UK-wide support. We would recommend checking the bilges, sternglands and skin fittings for leaks, engine mounts, soundproofing and exhaust hoses for deterioration, and also having a general look over the engines for signs of corrosion. As always, it is important to check that the required
servicing regime has been adhered to. The Yanmar engines have a bit of a ‘smokey’ reputation, while the common rail Volvo engines are regarded as giving comparable performance, cleaner running and better fuel efficiency, perhaps making them the most desirable. However, with modern Volvo D-series engines, fault finding is more likely to require the assistance of a service agent. Conclusion This is undoubtedly one of the best modern aft cabins that Broom built. It provides the best of both worlds, with its inland and coastal ability, and no matter what layout you choose, four or six-berth, or engine option, you can be assured of space, sea keeping and high quality, worthy of the price tag.
Before buying any used boat, always employ the services of a YDSA or a IIMS accredited surveyor and, if you have any doubt about the engines, a separate engine survey by a suitably qualified person is recommended.
Family 42cl
2000-2007
Prices £170,000-£220,000
Length: 42ft 5in Beam: 13ft 11in The 39kl bigger sister, with the same unsurpassed handling and accommodation. Buy one (pictured) 2004 £197,500 www.rbsmarine.com
Ocean 40
1986-1991
Prices £70,000-£90,000
Length: 40ft 5in Beam: 13ft 6in A rare 2-cabin, 4-6 berth aft cabin flybridge from Broom, with only 20 built. Buy one (pictured) 1989 £85,000 www.valwyattmarine.co.uk
39 Mk1
1991-1998
Prices £100,000-£140,000
Length: 39ft 6in Beam: 13ft 6in A Bennett-designed, 4-6 berth aft-cabin-style trend setter capable of up to 30 knots. Buy one (pictured) 1998 £139,950 www.norfolk.boatshed.com
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OWNERS REPORT
Beverly and Martin Briggs Broom 39kl Having owned river boats for many years, we decided to broaden our horizons via sea-going adventures and, in 2016, began researching the many makes and designs of suitable boats. After several viewings, we narrowed our search down to a Broom 39kl or 42cl because the layout and quality finish ‘ticked all our boxes’, in particular, the spacious aft cabin with its island bed, heads and separate shower cubicle. The light and airy saloon with its comfortable U-shaped seating, plus the second cabin and heads, appealed to us too. One of our requirements was a semi-displacement hull, should we wish to cruise inland again. We viewed several Broom 39s and 42s before narrowing our search down to the 39, as we felt the 42 was more suited to four people whereas we wanted a boat that was very comfortable for two with occasional visitors. We preferred the dinette version of the 39 but were prepared to consider the 2+2 version. Our preference was also the twin Yanmar 260hp engines, but condition outweighed this and, in August 2017, we purchased Dacelo, a 2005 39kl, as she had been meticulously maintained by her two previous owners. She has Volvo D4 260hp engines which provide comfortable cruising speeds of 16-18 knots and a
maximum of 25 knots. The Volvo D4s are more economical than the Yanmar 260hps, but are less quiet. Fuel consumption is around 4 litres per mile at cruising speed and we get approximately 1 litre per mile at displacement speed. The aft cockpit canopies provide full protection in cooler weather and, in warm conditions, can be partially or fully open. Being a standard version, we have the dinette adjacent to the galley. However, the table in the aft cockpit offers an idyllic place for dining. Getting on and off is easy with the steps up from the bathing platform, there is also a useful side door leading into the saloon area. Wide side decks and ample grab rails provide a feeling of security for crew. We keep Dacelo in Weymouth and our first sea cruising adventure was joining Motorboat Owner’s 2018 cruise. Blessed with glorious conditions, Editor Neale led the flotilla west as far as Falmouth, with stays at various ports over the 14 days. Since then we have regularly cruised east to Poole and to the Solent, Yarmouth and Cowes being favourites. We also enjoyed a sunny stay in Dartmouth last summer. With her smart blue hull, sleek lines and attractive window shaping, Dacelo is an impressive example. We can’t fault her.
88
December 2020
New and Used
Boats for Sale 01189 403211
Corsiva / 500 Tender
Modern dayboat with social seating, teak effect floor, canopy
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
NEW Corsiva / 650
Corsiva / 595 Tender
Exciting new model for 2021, stone grey hull, large aft deck sunbed
15hp engine, seating converts to sunbed, cushion upgrade, table
Corsiva / 690 Tender
Modern colours, sleek lines, fridge, bimini, other models available
2017 | £17,500 | 16.4ft | 5m
2017 | £19,000 | 18.7ft | 5.7m
NEW | £22,045 | 20.7ft | 6.3m
Interboat / 6.5
Interboat / Intender 700
Interboat / Intender 820
Broom / Ocean 40
2017 | £45,500 | 21.7ft | 6.6m
NEW | €57,771 | 23ft | 7m
2016 | £70,000 | 26.6ft | 8.1m
1989 | £85,000 | 40ft | 12.3m
Fantastic dayboat giving up to 14 kts, bowthruster, fridge, teak floor
Due June 2021, folding transom, Esthec floor & upholstery upgrade
Rarely available model, solid teak floor, toilet, bowthruster, fridge
FROM
£382,410 400 AFT CABIN
PRICE AS AT 1 APRIL 2020 EX WORKS, INC 20% VAT ST
British built since 1980
NEW | £25,720 | 22.1ft | 6.8m
Amazing accommodation, fully equipped for extended cruising
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
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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
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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
90
www.hardy-owner.org.uk
Jeanneau Owners Network
www.jeanneau-owners.com
December 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.seawardsquadron.org
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
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Rinker Owners Club www.rinkerboats.com/owners-club
Rodman Owners Club
www.facebook.com/rodmanownersclub
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1991 Sealine 260 Senator
£25,000 01189 403211 email address
91
Classified
Motorboat Owner Affordable practical boating
RLM Bahamas
Moonraker 36 AC
£13,000
£25,000
Twin Perkins 4108 diesels running on Enfield drives. Much loved 31ft cruiser ideal for inland/estuary use, offering 5 berths including separate V-berth forward cabin with double infill. Rewired and new headlining 2009, new upholstery 2015, sea toilet, davits, full canopy & winter tonneau. 07703 774686 email address
Rare aft cockpit version fitted with twin Perkins 6354 175hp shaftdrive diesels. Spacious and capable 5-berth cruiser. New canopy, hull recently stripped/blasted and antifouled. Radar. Lying Essex
01702 332040
6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 11
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
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
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
2019 Falcon 650 RIB £ 49,950 VAT paid
2006 Chris Craft Launch 25 £ 49,950 VAT paid
ES3794
ES3813
Salterns Marina, Poole
EB3729
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
ANTARES 11 : FOR THE MOST BEST WEEKEND! PHOTO: © JULIEN GAZEAU
Interboat / 19
Whether enjoyed with friends or family, the Antares 11 will quickly become your favorite weekend getaway! With 7 berths, a fully equipped galley, and an innovative and friendly exterior layout, this boat offers endless opportunity for leisure activities and will create memories to last a lifetime ! Available in either a flybridge or « coupé » version.
NEW Interboat / Intender 820
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.BENETEAU.COM
2014 Capelli Tempest 770 S £ 42,950 VAT paid
2008 Glastron Gt249 £ 29,950 VAT paid
Salterns Marina, Poole
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
EB3630
92
Intercruiser / 28 Cabrio
Elegant & spacious day boat, bow thruster, sink, toilet & fridge
2006 | £47,500 | 25ft | 7.9m
ES3806
1991 Sunseeker Martinique 36 £ 25,950 VAT paid Essex Marina, United Kingdom EB3853
E&OE
Open 7 days a week. Email: info@boats.co.uk
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
Beneteau........................................................................................... Cranchi/Tingdene Boat Sales.......................................................... MDS Battery....................................................................................... Nimbus/Offshore Powerboats......................................................... Parker Poland.................................................................................... Sargo Boats UK.................................................................................. Saxdor Yachts/Ideal Boat................................................................ Finnmaster/Ideal Boat...................................................................... Selva Marine...................................................................................... Val Wyatt Marine............................................................................... Vetus................................................................................................... Yacht Havens.....................................................................................
NEW Due Spring 2021, Esthec floor, teak table, bimini
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
Interboat / 25
2015 Beneteau Antares 8.80 £ 64,950 VAT paid
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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December 2020
L K what I saw
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Chelsea Rainbow
London’s Chelsea Harbour under a rainbow SPOTTED! by John Cochrane AMYC A special thank you to the Albany Motor Yacht Club for sending through its photo competition winners this month Motorboat Owner
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