Motorboat Owner July 2015 by Digital Marine Media Ltd

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Motorboat JULY 2015

Owner Affordable practical boating

BOAT TEST

Alfastreet Energy 23C PRACTICAL

Princess 415 l Sealine S24 l D-Day Ambition AIS & fitting a transceiver

Welcome to the July issue.

From the Editor

I have spent half of this last month afloat, which means that wearing my lifejacket has become almost second nature. We have it drummed into us that lifejackets should be worn at all times, and I for one have been onboard with that philosophy for a number of years. Lifejackets, as the RNLI tell us, are useless unless worn. Then I found myself reading the sobering MAIB (Marine

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2 October 2013

July 2015

in this incident about servicing and maintaining lifejackets, but the thing that struck me was that the MAIB have suggested that we should consider removing our automatic lifejackets when “entering spaces below decks” because “in the event of a catastrophic accident, it could make escape more difficult”. I have no problem with that, and I for one will consider heeding this advice. But what exactly constitutes ‘spaces below decks’ on a modern motorboat? With so many boats now coming with hard tops and solid cockpit doors it could be argued that many cockpits could become a dangerous place to be wearing an automatic lifejacket in a ‘catastrophic event’. I don’t have the answer, but it Accident Investigation Branch) report on does bear thinking about on your boat. the unfortunate collision of the sailing Lifejackets of course should always yacht Orca with the Dredger Shoreway, off be worn on deck, but maybe, if you Felixstowe last year. An incident which cost helm your boat from the comfort of a one of Orca’s crew their life. Paradoxically the skipper of Orca almost certainly survived wheelhouse or fully enclosed cockpit, the MAIB make a good argument for because his lifejacket failed to inflate, while having them easily the poor lady that died became trapped in the cabin, possibly by her inflated lifejacket. accessible, but left unworn. There are some useful lessons to be learnt

welcome aboard

Richard Poat

Richard Poat visited the D-Day beaches in his 24ft boat, pictured here in St Vaast. See his cruise report on page 38

Editor, Neale Byart Advertising: For all brokerage, 01268 922992 display or classified adverts neale@motorboatowner.co.uk 01268 922994 advertising@motorboatowner.co.uk Associate Editor, Claire Frew Subscriptions: 01268 922991 01268 922993 subscriptions@motorboatowner.co.uk claire@motorboatowner.co.uk Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

7 Superi or Marinas

M o o r i ng s fo r a l l t y pe s o f bo at s

R i ve r T ha m es . R i ve r Seve rn No r fo l k B ro a d s . R i ve r Wey

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T. 01932 226 305 Walton on Thames

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CONTENTS JULY 2015

REGULARS

PRACTICAL

NEWS page 6 INBOX page 12 Q&A page 22 CUTTING EDGE page 36 TESTED page 68

HOW TO

AIS & Installing a

Decide where AIS un to moun it the sep and, if requir t the We ma arate spl ed, rke the exi itter. Ab holes and d out, drilled stin screwed was ide g VHF bla ove units both ck box in al for us know place. Ensur wh e you YOU4 WILL NEED thing you at is behind any are dri lling int TOOLS o 5 drill bits ation System) (Automatic Identific the most useful is probably one of marine electronics innovations in leisure With a receiver fitted, in the last 10 years. suitable display, a and connected to a tion about a informa helmsman can see she AIS data that he or vessel transmitting go know. You can also could not otherwise fit a transceiver that one step further and it to see other vessels, you allows only not to see you. allows other vessels

page 50 Second Look page 62 Project Boat

Mayland 16 Upgrading the galley

so teame Active d this up wit AI h during S Splitter 100 a Raymarine our rec are goi makin ent Cr . We fitted it ng to get g uise in Comp where bound good use of any, any you are power to the days. Lik that wil m and nature going e many rest or weath to , pre l importa paration and jobs of this er- variou be needed to run the wires s compo con nt. You pla nning wise, aro to moun nents tog nect the nee are t the com d to decide ether. this job und 90% of Time where ponen the wa ts, how between s just in run time taken you for nin the HOW g the helm, radar arc TO IN h. Here’s engine roo wires 18 ST m and how we EPS 1 did it. 2

AIS

1999 Sealine S24

Transceiver

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p12 PRACTICAL

• Drill and • Screwdrivers • Wire strippers • Electrical crimps fishing wires • Something to aid through the boat

AIS & Installing a Transceiver p38

p50 CRUISING D-Day Ambition

p26

p70

Princess 415

CLASSIC CRUISER GUIDE GUIDE CLASSIC CRUISER Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

BOAT TEST

Alfastreet Energy 23 Cabin

NEWS MCA Press Agency

Thames Coastguard closure Early June saw the closure of Thames Coastguard. Boaters in the Thames Estuary and sea areas Reculver to Orfordness will now be looked after by a combination of Dover Coastguard, Humber Coastguard and the new Coastguard National Operations Centre at Segensworth. The Thames area transition is explained by Keith Oliver, Head of Maritime Operations “The introduction of a ‘national network’ will enable the National Marine Operations Centre and 10 Coastguard Operation Centres to coordinate any incident around the UK coast. Incidents will continue to be managed locally but with a much better support network available nationally. The marine radio coverage provided by HM Coastguard remains unchanged and boaters should continue to use radio call sign ‘Thames Coastguard’. Boaters who need to dispose of expired pyrotechnics should phone their nearest operations centre for guidance, in the case for Thames this is Humber Coastguard”.

Outer pontoons at St Helier receive £3m makeover More than 20,000 boaters visit St. Helier each year, often mooring to the outer pontoons waiting for tidal access into St Helier Marina. A £3 million project to improve the facilities commenced in September 2014 and was completed in April. The extreme tidal range of 9 to 12 metres was the biggest hurdle in the construction, but now a new huge ramp connects to 52 metres of floating visitors’ pontoons and lifeboat berth. There is also water and electricity on the pontoons. 6

July 2015

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

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Sunseeker Summer Sunseeker has launched a social media campaign on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, so if you see a Sunseeker this summer, old or new, large or small you can share your photos online using #SunseekerSummer.

s t s i l a i c e p S The

N N T O RISOS! O N PA ITE M S CO WEB

Cowes Yacht Haven joins TransEurope group Cowes Yacht Haven is the 30th marina in the UK to become a member of TransEurope, an association of European marinas offering reciprocal berthing arrangements. This means Cowes Yacht Haven annual berth-holders will receive discounts (up to 50%) in eight countries at any of the 69 TransEurope marinas. Vice versa, berth-holders from across Europe will now also receive discounted stays at Cowes YH.

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NEWS £300m Swansea Lagoon plan gets the go ahead Consent has been given for the world’s first tidal lagoon, which is planned for Swansea Bay. It is claimed the energy-generating lagoon will provide power for over 155,000 homes, generating around 500GWh of low carbon electricity per year. Plans began back in 2013 with developers and designers trying to harness the power of the Severn Estuary with its large tidal range, up to 8.5metres on a spring tide. If built, a six-mile sea wall will extend out into Swansea Bay, from the mouth of the River Tawe in the west, and around to Baglan Bay and the Swansea University Campus in the east. The project is estimated to cost £300m. Despite earlier concerns raised regarding the effects of wave reflection on leisure boaters, the RYA has stated that it is now satisfied that the lagoon seawall and the effects, “as far as practically possible have been reduced by its design”. They also state that the structure will be clearly lit/marked and charted in accordance with Trinity House requirements.

Arson attack on boat in Dorset Dorset Police is investigating an arson attack on a boat in Wareham and are appealing for witnesses. Officers were called at 9.25pm on Sunday 7 June to reports of a fire on a boat near the moorings on the River Frome at Swineham. The Cranchi owned by Richard Martindale and partner Patricia Whitlock was destroyed in the blaze. Unfortunately the boat was not insured. Pat’s mother, May said there is “no news from the police so far, despite CCTV footage and various eyewitness accounts of three young men around the scene at the time.” Police officers are keen to trace the three men, described as white and in their 30s seen in the area at the time of the incident. 8

July 2015

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

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

New live tide gauge at Bembridge Visiting boaters to Bembridge now have the security of having an accurate live-feed water depth reading over the entrance bar in the approach channel to the harbour. The 24/7 data display, which is updated every 60 seconds shows whether the tide is rising or falling, and can be accessed via a link on the Bembridge Harbour website www.bembridgeharbour. co.uk. If you do not have a device capable of accessing the website, visitors can telephone the harbour office on 01983 872828 (or on VHF Channel 80) and they will be happy to give you the live reading. Bembridge have also confirmed that it will soon be able to offer pre-bookable visitors berths on the Duver Pontoon. In the past, this facility has only been available to rallies but they will be building five new finger berths which will be bookable for boats of up to 14 metres in length.

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NEWS Southampton Boat Show 2015 Now in its 47th year, the Southampton Boat Show returns in September and includes one of Europe’s biggest purposebuilt marinas. The event will showcase the latest boats and equipment available. Visitors will also be able to step aboard the tall ship the Earl of Pembroke and witness the Red Arrows performing their famous show-stopping display. The ‘eye’ big wheel will be returning, offering panoramic views of the show. The show will be open from Friday 11 September until Sunday 20 September, opening 10am-6.30pm daily and 10am-6pm on the last Sunday. Advance tickets start at £15, with two children under the age of 15 going free with each adult. For more information visit southamptonboatshow.com. *Motorboat Owner Stand BO73A, do come and say hello.

Princess ‘Project 31’ The British boat builder Princess Yachts International has announced it is going back to its roots and has embarked on a unique restoration project in celebration of its 50th anniversary year. The first boat it produced, the Project 31 was the initial success story The Project 31 was built by Marine Projects between 1965-1969 behind the Princess brand (then known as Marine Projects (Plymouth) Ltd), with more than 150 boats produced. Princess Yachts will be restoring a 1968 Project 31 whilst ‘giving her a touch of the Princess treatment’. The boat will be refitted at Princess’ superyacht facility South Yard in Plymouth, drawing on various departments within the business. Parts will be removed and sent across the factory to the carpentry and metal shops where they will be repaired and reconditioned. Director, David King said of her arrival “I am delighted to see a Project 31 return to Plymouth after all this time. At first glance she’s in pretty good condition, although there is plenty of work to be done. We’ve got great plans for her and I’ll be delighted to see her brought back to life!” You can follow the boat’s progress via the dedicated website or via Twitter and Facebook. 10

July 2015

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

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

DIARY DATES Sealine Open Weekend Penton Hook Marine Sales 11th-12th July Bristol Harbour Festival 17th-19th July Thames Traditional Boat Festival 18th-19th July AAM Cowes Week 8th-15th August Weymouth Carnival 2015 19th August Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival 5th-6th September Southampton Boat Show 11th-20th September Click any of the above for more info

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Owner

Sheerline 1090 HT NEW BOAT

Sheerline has joined the hardtop revolution with the announcement of its new 1090 HT. The 37ft, four berth river and estuary cruiser will be powered by a single Volvo D4 300hp diesel. It will be available through Sheerline Motor Cruisers direct or through dealer Bray Marine Sales from £224,858. The boat will debut at Southampton Boat Show this September.

Sealine F530 NEW BOAT

Sealine is expanding its range to include a new, Bill Dixon designed 53ft flybridge. The new Sealine F530 will measure 15.94 metres and will have three cabins offering 6-8 berths, with a full width master cabin. It will be powered by twin Volvo IPS 600 engines as standard, or optional Volvo IPS 700 or 800 engines. Features include a sunken foredeck dinette area with pop-up lights, an optional flybridge hardtop and an electrohydraulic tender lift. Prices start at £585,122 inc VAT and it is set to debut in January 2016 at Boot 2016 in Düsseldorf. See more details at www.sealine.com Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

INBOX

STAR LETTER

Project boat flooring

I’ve just read this month’s magazine. It’s a pity I didn’t think of writing in to you before you did the cockpit flooring for your project boat. When I refurbished my Shetland Speedwell I had to decide how to finish off the plywood floor in the cockpit as well. I used vinyl flooring that looks like aluminum chequer plate flooring, from B&Q at £8 per square metre. It looks brilliant, and has fooled a few people looking over the side of the boat into thinking it’s the real thing. Chris David Editor replies: That looks very convincing Chris. Having said that, with a minimum order of 6m2 I think I’ll need to team up with another project boater to make it more cost effective.

July 2015

email:

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

River Thames licence

After working on my boat for years, it is finally ready to go back on the river, but I was shocked at how the Environment Agency charge for a licence. Even though my boat is not going on the river until June, they informed me that I would still have to pay the full fee for the year, even though the licence only runs from January to December. How can they ask for the full licence fee for the year if you only put your boat on the water half way through? Louis James Editor replies: The EA do offer a reduced rate licence for late season entrants onto the river, but this isn’t available until September. I must admit that I don’t understand why the EA can’t offer a one year licence starting during any month, which seems fairer all round, so I asked them. This is what they said: “The existing boat registration arrangements on the non-tidal Thames were inherited by the Environment Agency when we took over the role of navigation authority from the National Rivers Authority in 1996. The arrangements were based on the Thames Conservancy (1966) legislation which required that all registrations expired on 31 December. We recognised that this, and other requirements of the same legislation, were outdated and worked for over 10 years to change the law to make it more modern, flexible and fairer for our customers. We succeeded with the introduction of The Environment Agency (Inland Waterways) Order 2010 and have subsequently introduced a number of changes to benefit customers, including more flexible refund and transfer arrangements. So we have now removed the legal barrier to us introducing a ‘rolling year’ boat registration scheme, and we know that this is something many of our customers would like to see introduced, so have the mandate. What we don’t have however is the funding. Introducing a rolling year boat registration scheme will require a significant level of investment to upgrade our IT systems. Unfortunately, funding to manage and maintain our waterway service is currently under the greatest pressure it has been for many years. Our funding from Government continues to reduce under its austerity programme, and most of our customers want us to keep boat registration fees as low as possible and concentrate on providing the best levels of ‘assisted passage’ at our locksites that we can, with the budget we have. This is what we are doing. We are keen to introduce a rolling year, along with other changes to give our customers even more flexibility, but must manage customers’ expectations: even if funding is found, introducing such a change will take a considerable amount of time to scope out, consult on, and implement.” Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

PRACTICAL

HOW TO

AIS & installing a transceiver

YOU WILL NEED

AIS

(Automatic Identification System) is probably one of the most useful innovations in leisure marine electronics in the last 10 years. With a receiver fitted, and connected to a suitable display, a helmsman can see information about a vessel transmitting AIS data that he or she could not otherwise know. You can also go one step further and fit a transceiver that not only allows you to see other vessels, it allows other vessels to see you.

TOOLS • Drill and drill bits • Screwdrivers • Wire strippers • Electrical crimps • Something to aid fishing wires through the boat CONSUMABLES • Electrical connectors • Fuse holders • Wire

DIFFICULTY RATING

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July 2015

Can he see me? AIS is a useful tool to help with collision avoidance

What is AIS?

Introduced initially for commercial vessels in the 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, and compulsory on all commercial vessels over 300 tons on international passages, all commercial vessels over 500 tons and all passenger carrying vessels of any size, AIS is also now widely used on a voluntary basis on many other vessels, including leisure sailing and motorboats. More recently it is also being used for static installations such as light houses, buoys and can even be used in a virtual sense by placing an AIS mark where no physical item exists. AIS transponders are also now fitted to personal location beacons to aid man overboard location and recovery. AIS is basically a way of transmitting identification and

location data that can be viewed by anyone with the equipment capable of receiving and deciphering that data.

The English Channel is a busy place. This is a typical day as shown on marinetraffic.com

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PRACTICAL

How does AIS work? AIS works on the marine VHF frequencies and therefore has range limitations in much the same way as VHF radio transmissions. The transmitting and receiving aerial needs to be within line of sight, and distance is very much dependant upon the height of the transmitting and receiving aerial, as well as atmospheric conditions. Like VHF transmissions its range can extend up to 50 miles or more, but realistically, for a leisure boat we will be limited to a range of below 10 miles. Commercial vessels use what is know as ‘Class A’ equipment while leisure boats use ‘Class B’. Class A equipment transmits at a higher power, transmits more frequently and transmits more information than Class B, but all receivers and transceivers, whether Class A or B, will process and display data from both types. There has been many suggestions that large vessels ‘filter out’ class B transmissions. Whether this is true or not is difficult to find out. Certainly in a crowded area, such as

A receiver will allow you to see information about vessels who are transmitting AIS data

You can set up AIS to visually and audibly warn you of potential collision situations

the Solent, a ships display could be so busy that some form of filtering may be needed, but ultimately they still need to ensure that they keep a look out using all available means, and purposely removing one way of spotting small boats in busy waters would go against the COLREGS in this regard. It is true that Class A transmissions take precedence over Class B, so if you transmit Class B, you should never assume that the large ships are seeing your data. Vessels using Class A AIS will transmit information including vessel name, vessel type, MMSI number, call sign, speed, course, heading, rate of turn, vessel status and destination. With this information displayed on your screen you will also see a closest point of approach and time to closest point of approach. These last two bits of information are crucial for collision avoidance decision-making. Class B equipment transmits similar information but does not include rate of turn, vessel status and destination.

July 2015

What are the benefits? AIS provides another source of information. It is not a replacement for radar, but it does work very well with it when boating at night or in restricted visibility. Obviously collision avoidance is its main benefit and even ‘receive only’ equipment will prove to be a great tool if you ever find yourself in busy shipping lanes in poor visibility. Of course you will see large ships on radar too, but unless you are very conversant with MARPA, a radar return actually tells you very little about a target other than where it is in relation to you and its distance. Even if you use MARPA there are still some limitations to its information whereas with AIS you have very specific details about a vessels speed, direction of travel and even how close you are going to get if you both carry on as you are. You also get an early indication of a vessel changing course, perhaps to avoid you if they

are the give way vessel, allowing you to confidently stand on as required. A well installed and integrated AIS system will also allow you to make direct DSC VHF calls to a target if required, without even needing to input their MMSI number. AIS also offers leisure users some more ‘fun’ features, such as alerting you when your friends are out on the water and in your location if you set up, and add them, to a ‘buddy’ list.

AIS can be set up to tell you when your friends are out and about

Are there any downsides? Yes there are. Firstly AIS Class B transceivers have come down in price and become very affordable. That in itself is not the downside, the problem is that in busy waters such as the Solent, the screen can literally be covered in AIS targets to the point of obscuring the navigational information on the electronic chart. If you set up the AIS alarm system to alert you to a potentially ‘dangerous’ target,

the alarm will continuously sound in this situation, rendering it a useless feature. If you choose to fit a transceiver, consider switching it off, or operating in ‘silent’ mode, if you feel the benefits of transmitting are not required. Also ensure that you switch it off when you leave the boat. Some boats seem to transmit 24/7, even when they are tucked up on their home berth, causing unnecessary alarms

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

PRACTICAL

for other users. On Class A vessels some of the information, such as vessel status, is input manually. It is not uncommon to see a vessel clearly cruising at maximum speed but showing a status of ‘at anchor’

or vice versa. Vessel direction and speed are automatically fed in, so these should be given more credence when analysing a target.

What are my choices? As a leisure boat you should be looking at Class B kit. We understand that there is nothing in the law to stop you installing a Class A transceiver, but it will cost considerably more, and requires inputs that your average leisure vessel probably won’t have. Concentrating on Class B, you have the choice of buying just a receiver, which will allow you to see all vessels equipped with a transceiver, whether Class A or Class B, or you can fit a transceiver which will also transmit your vessel’s data to be seen on other AIS equipped vessels. Many boaters think the important function of AIS is to see other vessels and in this case a receiver is the simplest and cheapest option. A Class B receiver can be

bought for a little over £100. Because they work on VHF signals they will either need a dedicated VHF aerial or, by using a splitter, you can use your VHF’s existing aerial. A basic VHF splitter can be purchased from around £50. If you want to transmit your vessel details as well, a transceiver can be obtained from around £450. You will also need a separate VHF antenna or a splitter to use your existing aerial. While you should be able to use any make or model of receiver or transceiver, sometimes it makes for an easier install if you source components from the same manufacturer as your boat’s existing electronics. That was the case facing us when we were looking to install AIS onto our Cruise in Company Control Boat, April Fool. We decided that we wanted to receive and transmit, as we undertake regular cross Channel passages and it would also help participants on our cruises to keep track of our whereabouts. As the boat was already fitted with Raymarine equipment we purchased a Raymarine AIS 650 Class B transceiver. We also decided to use the existing VHF aerial

July 2015

so teamed this up with a Raymarine Active AIS Splitter 100. We fitted it during our recent Cruise in Company, making good use of any rest or weatherbound days. Like many jobs of this nature, preparation and planning are important. You need to decide where to mount the components, how you

are going to get power to them and where you are going to run the wires that will be needed to connect the various components together. Time wise, around 90% of the time taken for this job was just in running the wires between the helm, engine room and radar arch. Here’s how we did it.

HOW TO IN 18 STEPS

Decide where to mount the AIS unit and, if required, the separate splitter. Above the existing VHF black box was ideal for us 4

As we didn’t have a Seatalk NG backbone we decided to install one, to make connecting the AIS to the display easier

We marked out, drilled holes and screwed both units in place. Ensure you know what is behind anything you are drilling into 5

A short cable was run from the display to the backbone. This was powered by connecting it to the same breaker as the instruments

The Sealine SC35 has easy access to the back of the multifunction display which was needed to make the necessary connections 6

The first long cable run, the Seatalk NG cable from the helm to engine bay, required a fridge to be removed

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

PRACTICAL

Two hours later, the plug appeared in the engine bay next to the AIS unit and could be plugged in

The VHF aerial plug was removed from the VHF and plugged into the splitter, after making sure we had enough slack in the cable

The AIS and splitter came with the required patch leads to join them all together

One of the leads went from splitter to AIS, while the other connected the VHF to the splitter

Both boxes required power. The wires were integrated into the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trunking, fused and connected to a suitable power supply

The AIS unit needs a GPS feed and comes with an antenna. We marked the radar arch and drilled some holes

The wire was fed through the arch, and the GPS antenna was mounted using a waterproof gasket

Another few hours passed as the wire was fed from the arch all the way down into the engine bay

Once fed through, this final connection was made, which completed the installation process

July 2015

Some setup was needed on the display. We had to turn the AIS chart layer on, and select the required settings

Finally, we had to use the supplied software to connect the AIS to a laptop and program the boat’s particulars into the unit

The finished installation. The green lights indicate all is working correctly. We were also able to confirm this with an AIS equipped boat we were cruising with

COST £ For our Raymarine specific transceiver installation the AIS and Splitter were bought on special offer at £700, against an RRP of £1084. We had to buy some Seatalk NG equipment and connectors, which added another £150, giving us a total of £850. A simple receiver and splitter can be purchased for around £175, with a budget transceiver and splitter coming in at around £600. You can save the cost of a splitter by installing a separate VHF antenna, but the cost of this, together with a mounting bracket, is similar to a budget splitter.

TIME TAKEN All in all it took us the equivalent of one very long day, but most of this was spent working cable through the boat. The actual install of the equipment, setup and connections took only an hour or two.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

Q&A

Your Questions Answered

Blocked intercoolers

Q I have a Fairline Phantom 42 with Volvo Penta TAMD63 370hp engines in Cala Dor in Mallorca. I have been told during the service of the engines that the intercoolers on both units are blocked and need removing, stripping out, and cleaning. What’s involved in this and is it a time consuming job?

A Much depends on how easy the intercoolers are to get to on your boat, but

once access is sorted it can only take an hour or so to remove each one. Assume a similar time to put them both back on and you are looking at around a half days work for removal and refitting. Next comes the cleaning. Did the engineer say if it is the air or water side of the intercooler that is blocked? If it is the air side, this is often due to oily deposits and is not a difficult job to degrease. If it is the water side, then they are going to need soaking in a solution to dissolve the build up of what is probably limescale and salt. Another possible solution to clear the water side is to flush them through in situ with a product such as Rydlime. This requires some plumbing to rig up a system to recycle the solution through the engine, but has the added benefit of cleaning the rest of the cooling system too. You’ll need a container for your reservoir of Rydlyme solution, a circulation pump, and a way of tapping into the raw water system at both ends so that the solution is picked up and deposited back in the same container. The latter part will need a bit of thought and ingenuity as well as a selection of hoses, connectors and hose clamps. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself, your local engineer should be able to help.

Fuel can storage

Q I have a Broom 31 with an inflatable and outboard on

davits. I would like to keep the outboard’s fuel tank safely in a locker secured to the rear platform. My problem is sourcing a suitable container. Can you offer any advise please?

A It sounds like a fibreglass ‘deck box’ would be ideal. I

don’t know how big your fuel tank is, but Outhill’s smallest deck box, the DL16, would easily accommodate the ubiquitous 12 litre tank that most small inflatables use. Be prepared to sit down before looking at the price, as GRP deckboxes are not cheap, but they would certainly look the part. See Outhill’s website for details. 22

July 2015

If you have a question, email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Cleaning Vinyl upholstery

Q I was cleaning my boat in the marina over

the weekend and someone suggested I try Magic sponges to clean the vinyl seating, which I was having no success with. I searched online and there seems to be lots of different products that claim to be Magic Sponges. Are they all the same and are they good for cleaning Vinyl?

A We love Magic Sponges and yes, they really are very good for all sorts of cleaning

jobs. They are particularly good for spot cleaning marks and stains on all manner of surfaces, including Vinyl, and bring grubby white vinyl seats up a treat. I would caution that they do seem to be slightly abrasive, so use them with care, but on the whole I think every boat should have some on board. I use the ones sold by Marine AGlaze, who call them ‘Eradicator Sponges’ and sell them for just over £6 for a pack of 4.

Do I need to close all seacocks?

Q Is it ok to leave all my seacocks open when I

leave the boat or should I go around closing them all. I have six in all and they are in four different parts of the bilge, which means lifting up different floor sections and plenty of squeezing into small spaces.

A I always think it is best practice to close all

seacocks when leaving a boat. It not only reduces the already small risk of flooding caused by a split or loose hose, it also exercises them, which helps stops them seizing. The danger, of course, is starting the engines after forgetting to re-open them. For this reason, and because it may not be you starting the engines the next time, it makes sense to add a note to the helm when you close them to advise that they need opening before starting. Once you have started closing them, it soon becomes a habit. As for squeezing into tight spaces, I do know of one boat owner who has a modified boat hook that reaches down into the bilge just for this purpose. They still have to lift the floor, but no one has to jump down into the bilge, maybe you could do something similar. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

Q&A

Your Questions Answered

Sportscruiser for £25k

Q I have a budget of £25k and am

looking for a twin diesel engined sportscruiser big enough for a family of four. What would you recommend?

A That’s quite an order for the

available budget but I think it should be doable. If it were my £25k I would be looking at something like a Sealine 285, or maybe a later 290 if you are lucky. Both offer a separate mid cabin and convertible dinette, meaning they can accommodate four overnight, and the best thing is that the mid cabin contains two singles, which is ideal for the kids. Other choices to consider would be a Fairline Targa 27 and the Falcon 27, both of which should just about fall into your budget if you haggle hard. While searching, keep your eyes open for other rare ‘oddballs’. I found a Draco 2900 (available through Clarke & Carter) while looking for the above boats, and this would make a great alternative to the more obvious models I have mentioned.

Top to bottom, Sealine 285 Ambassador (built 1985-1989). Fairline Targa 27 (built 1988-1991), Falcon 27/275 (built 19891995) and finally our wild card is this 1989 Draco 2900 for £26,750 24

July 2015

If you have a question, email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Replacement bellows

Q I am going to service my own outdrive this

autumn and am in the process of buying the bits that I will need. I notice that I can get aftermarket bellows for quite a bit less than the expensive Volvo originals. I am sorely tempted but am unsure if it would be a false economy. What do you think?

A I have bought and used both original Volvo bellows and cheaper aftermarket ones,

and I can tell you that there does feel like an obvious difference in the quality. The problem is that even among the various aftermarket bellows there will be a difference in quality, with some being as good as Volvo’s and others less so. It’s a tough call but when you consider the consequences of a failed U joint bellows, including possible sinking, the extra cost seems a small price to pay. I have removed original Volvo bellows that have been in place for four years and still looked and felt like they had lots of life left in them. I am not sure I would feel so confident about some of the after market ones I have seen. It’s not just the rubber bellows that may not be up to the right standard, there is also the stainless steel hose clamp. I wouldn’t feel so inclined to worry about the exhaust bellows as this is full of water anyway, and is easy to change without removing the drive. My opinion is to go for original U joint bellows and, if you want to save a couple of quid, fit aftermarket exhaust bellows.

Lifejacket servicing

Q It has been suggested to me that I

should be having my automatic lifejackets serviced. I have owned them for about four years and didn’t realize this was a requirement. Can I do it myself?

A It makes sense for your lifejackets

to be regularly inspected to ensure that, should the need arise, they will do the job you bought them for. You can get them serviced professionally by the likes of Seasafe Systems, Universal Safety or most of the places that service life rafts, but there are also many checks and procedures you can carry out yourself. We produced a guide to owner checks and service procedures in our December 2013 issue. You can see a copy of the feature here Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

CLASSIC CRUISERS

a complete guide to the best boats on the used market

Princess 415 I f you have around £50-£60k, you might be surprised to learn that you could bag yourself a 40ft flybridge Princess. The Princess 415 was one of those early benchmark flybridge boats from the late 80’s and early 90’s which, today, represents a very affordable family boat. Costing in the region of £127k when new, 30 years on these boats are selling for as little as £45k. As Princess celebrates its 50th anniversary this year we take a second look at these bygone flybridges and find out what makes them so popular. For Princess, its ‘first flybridge years’

were between 1975 and 1981, when we saw a range of variations on the Princess 37 theme. By 1980, Princess founder and Chairman, David King, noticed a shift towards bigger and faster craft. In the wake of the success of the 30DS, motorboat designer, Bernard Olesinski, was invited to design a new ‘threshold Princess’ and with that, a new breed of Princess flybridge was born. Olesinski’s design, the Princess 45, launched in 1981 and proved very successful, with 400 built in its nine-year production. The design changes were fairly radical, hull portholes replaced long

July 2015

Built approx 260 1985-1992 Prices then £137,827 (1989) Prices now £50,000 - £70,000 Length 43ft 10in/13.30m Beam 13ft 11in /4.24m Draught 3ft 9in /1.14m Air Draught top of GRP arch 13ft 3in / 4.4m Fuel 1182 litres / 260 gallons Water 500 litres / 110 gallons Displacement 11500kg approx

deck-level windows and an altogether more curvaceous superstructure replaced what had been a quite upright and angular design. The 45 also proved popular in the Mediterranean and it is said, export sales helped Princess as a company overcome the difficult recession of the early 1980’s. The Bennett designed flybridges, the 412 and 385 followed, but by the mid 80’s Princess was knocking on Olesinski’s door yet again, as a new 40ft flybridge was needed for the UK market. The Princess 415 was introduced in 1985. At just over 43ft overall with a beam of just under 14ft

it was a whole lot of boat, chunky and beamy, and this of course reflected in the interior. Interior The 415 is a two cabin, six berth boat, with a double master cabin forward, a twin berth side cabin and convertible double in the saloon. It has ample liveaboard space for two with occasional guests, or a family. On entering the full width patio doors you will see immediately how all of the 13ft 11in beam has been put to good use. The saloon area is impressively wide and

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

The vast saloon has ample space for entertaining. The coffee table hinges and lifts up for dining

spacious with excellent headroom. It has an L-shaped seating area to starboard, a long bench settee on the port side and a fridge/storage unit ahead of this. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an incredibly comfortable, cosy area for the owners but, on those social occasions, we suspect you could easily seat around eight people. On some models the settee on the port side pulls out in to the middle of the space to form a double. As this bed was an option, it is worth checking that the additional infill cushions are on board. There was a choice of two wood finishes on the 415, teak or oak, and of course, a variety of upholstery fabrics. Of all the boats we looked at it seems that navy blue leather or alcantara were fairly popular options. Albeit dark, both are very practical, long lasting and therefore may well still be original. As with any flybridge boat your second helm position needs to be equally

comfortable, if not more so than the flybridge itself. The downstairs driving position on the 415 does lack leg and headroom, which is something to test out when on board, particularly if you are tall. If you are of moderate height you may have to slouch down to look out through the windscreen and unfortunately the low bolster backrest does lack support. The seat itself is a generous double size with great storage underneath. While at the helm it is important to look at the condition of the inside of the windows, windscreen wiper motors and general surfaces below the windscreen. On boats fitted with painted aluminium window frames you may find they have become chalky white through corrosion, and may be leaking as a result. Sealant may have been applied along the joins to stop the leaks, a temporary solution which can look messy. Replacement can

July 2015

The interior helm is comfortable. An electronics mounting platform slides over the chart table

be costly so it is worth getting a quote from companies such as Seaglaze to get an idea of cost. A front screen cover is a good temporary solution, and may help prolong replacement. It will also do wonders to protect the interior wood and upholstery from the sun. Down three steps you will find the boats U-shaped galley. It has a handy double sink/drainer and plenty of worktop space, with storage above and below. The forward part of the galley is dominated by the cooking facilities. Here you will find a three or four burner hob and an oven mounted at eye level, usually a Chateau Magic Chef. Dual power, gas/electric hob and oven appliances were also fairly common on Princess boats of this era. There is also a huge fridge with a usefulsized freezer compartment. On the starboard side the second cabin The boat has a superb U-shaped galley offering plentiful storage and worktop space has twin berths with a storage dresser/ Motorboat Owner ÂŠ Digital Marine Media Ltd

The impressive master cabin is comfortable with a double island berth and two wardrobes

The twin guest side cabin has plentiful storage

drawer unit between, a large wardrobe and a full-length mirror. It is a great size with standing headroom in the majority of the cabin, making it ideal for guests or children. There are useful storage lockers under each bunk. One 1986 boat currently on the market has a double in this cabin with the dresser re-located on the right of the bed. We suspect that this might have been factory specified, as the Princess 45 was offered with a similar format. The master cabin is spacious and has an island double with storage units either side and two large wardrobes. There is an escape hatch over the bed and it is worth checking this for evidence of leaks. Adjoining this cabin is an ensuite shower and toilet compartment, which has a sea toilet, storage, a washbasin and a generous area to shower within a curtained-off enclosure. Back in the central lobby area, you will find the boats second toilet and shower

July 2015

1986 £75,000 (featured) Twin Volvo TAMD60 255hp Waterside Boat Sales 02392 388884 www.watersideboatsales.com

The two toilet compartments are very spacious

1989 £55,000 (featured) Twin Volvo TAMD63s Boats.co.uk 01702 258885 www.boats.co.uk

compartment, or ‘day loo’ on the port side. The compartment is almost a mirror image of the adjacent one on the starboard side and has an equally large showering space. On Deck The side decks are impressively wide and enclosed by thigh-height solid guardrails. One of the 415’s distinguishing features is the way the deck slopes up to greet the vast expanse of foredeck, reflected in the chunky windscreen mullion. We have yet to hear any owners complain about this, but its something that could become slippery in wet conditions. But with solid stanchions and well-placed grabrails along the coachroof, there is plenty to hang on to. We particular like the way the grabrails curve slightly around the front along the top of the windscreen. It is a great feature when you’re moving aft on deck. The

1988 £69,000 Twin Volvo TAMD61A 306hp Newark Marina 01636 704022 www.newark-marina.co.uk

1986 £47,000 Twin Volvo TAMD61 306hp Waterside Boat Sales 02392 388884 www.watersideboatsales.com

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

wide expanse of foredeck is slightly raised from the side decks, and also has a small step down into a central area of the deck, which may present a tripping hazzard to the unwary. While on deck, check the exterior window frames for any white deposits, or lifting of the outer coating, as these could indicate corrosion of the aluminium beneath. Some boats have been fitted with upgraded stainless steel framed windows. Earlier boats will have a teak-slatted bathing platform with a metal surround, while younger boats will have a grp version with inlaid teak panels. Access from the bathing platform and into the cockpit on older models is usually via a ladder on the starboard side, thus avoiding any davits and dinghies mounted to the curved transom. Any exterior wood may require some maintenance and protection to prevent growth or rot. Early 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boats usually have a transom gate on the port side, which is an excellent feature for those who are less able to clamber over the transom. We have seen one older 415 with a retrofitted transom door on the port side. This would have been quite a big job, but very worthwhile. The cockpit is huge on the Princess 415. It has a long bench seat/storage running

This 415 has a useful, retro-fitted transom door

The side decks are wide and have a sloped section

across the entire transom, or stopping just short on the transom gate model. With a cockpit canopy erected, this area doubles as a superb extension to the living space, ideal for dining, lounging or entertaining. Being totally enclosed also makes it very child friendly. There is a fantastic full-width storage lazarette locker under the cockpit floor, which will swallow up outboards, fenders and rollaway tenders. Inside items are stored on wooden slats but be aware that there was little to stop things rolling around and onto the steering gear aft. The boats 110 gallon water tank lies forward, beneath the patio doors. Aluminium fresh water tanks are fairly common on these boats so again it would be wise to check for corrosion. Like fuel tanks, replacement might be necessary and may prove costly. Flybridge An eight-rung angled ladder takes you up to the flybridge and upper helm position.

July 2015

The 415 hull is very capable and its design allows you to push on if conditions worsen

It is quite a steep climb up and through a hatch. Up top, you will find it spacious and uncluttered. Like many Princess boats of this era, the flybridge design is fairly basic, and low side coamings help keep the boat’s overall height down. The seating is also fairly low with an L-shaped bench aft and two identical double helm and navigators seats forward, both of which have reversing backrest bolsters for social occasions. None of these seats have storage but it is possible to stow a liferaft

under the aft bench. There is a vast chasm of space inside the helm windscreen bulkhead which offers good storage opportunities. The upper helm position is comfortable and functional but can be a little sparse when it comes to engine dials and navigation equipment. While there may be rev counter dials and engine start switches, temperature gauges may only be down below. Check that any new or old navigation equipment is repeated or

The low flybridge gives the ‘wind in your hair’ experience and is reached by an eight-rung ladder Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

This 1989 boat is fitted unusually with TAMD63s. A small floor hatch gives access between engines

transferable between helm positions, for example a Raytheon/Raymarine radar may have only been fitted down below. We have seen inland examples of the 415 where the radar arch has been modified to hinge for bridges. This brings the air draft down to around 11ft 3in.

and most boats are fitted predominantly with Volvo Penta engines, the specific models of which are regarded as reliable, easy to work on, and with good availability of spares. Quite a few early examples are fitted with twin Volvo TAMD60 255hp engines, these should be capable of cruising Hull and Handling speeds in the region of 16-18 knots. The The 415’s design followed on from the majority of Princess 415’s are powered success of the Princess 45. We spoke to the by twin TAMD61 306hp diesels, which designer, Bernard Olesinski and he told us should deliver a cruising speed of around “the predominate feature of these hulls is 20 knots, and a top speed of 25 knots. the very wide chine width which runs the In 1989, a 415 fitted with these engines full length of the boat. The effect of these would have cost £137,827. Today, engines was to promote early planing and gives the smaller than the 306’s are considered by ability to throttle back without dropping some to be a little underpowered for the off the plane. The chine width extends boat’s size. Other ‘in build’ engine options right forward thus preventing the bow include a pair of Caterpillar 3208 375hp, stuffing, in a large following sea.” and twin Volvo Penta TAMD71B 380hp Being fairly heavy, shaftdriven boats diesels. This last engine option is probably at 11 tonnes, the handling is responsive the most sought after, and best suited, and solid in close quarter situations. A providing a cruising speed of around of 24 bowthruster may have been retro-fitted knots (approx 0.8 mpg) and a top speed and is an excellent addition to look for. of 30 knots. These boats usually carry the highest price on the used market. Engines Soundproofing is an important Power is provided by large, twin shaftdrive consideration on these boats. Smaller diesels. The 415’s engine options were engines, such as the 306hp’s will have to almost identical to its larger sister, the 45, work that much harder, often resulting in 34

July 2015

higher sound levels. The larger engines are corrosion. These are located in the engine lower revving, and therefore quieter. bay outside of the engines. Finally check Like the Princess 435, the 415 is fitted that regular servicing has been carried out. with a small engine inspection hatch in Conclusion the saloon, just infront of the patio doors. The 415 is all about space, comfort and This hatch gives you climb-down access ability. Running a large twin shaftdrive between the engines but unfortunately diesel cruiser like this will not be cheap, very little else. Lifting the saloon carpet but savings can be made by throttling reveals two large opening hatches. back and carrying out engine servicing Engine access is fairly good for the port yourself. If you are looking for a serious engine but difficult for the starboard, as cruiser, and don’t mind a flybridge this involves the removal of seat bases. ladder, the 415 certainly offers a lot of Always check the fuel tanks, as these have boat for the money. been known to suffer from leaks and/or Before buying any used boat, always employ the services of a IIMS or a YDSA accredited surveyor and, if you have any doubt about the engines, a separate engine survey by a suitably qualified person is recommended.

Family Princess 38 1991-2003

Prices £45,000-£55,000

Length 38ft 1in Beam 13ft An update on the successful 37 this model offers a two cabin, four to six berth layout. Buy one (pictured) 1982 £54,995 www.westwateryachtsales.com

Princess 412 1982-1985

Prices £59,950-£65,950

Length 41ft 2in Beam 13ft Bennett-designed 80’s flybridge has the typical two cabin layout and a 25 knot top speed. Buy one (pictured) 1986 £65,950 www.tingdeneboatsales.net

Princess 45 1982-1991

Prices £60,000-£80,000

Length 47ft 2in Beam 14ft 1in Original sister to the 415 with larger interior. It has a useful lower dinette or third cabin. Buy one (pictured) 1988 £74,950 www.burtonwaters.co.uk

CONTEMPORARY CHOICE Princess 43 A revision of the best-selling 42, the 43 offers spacious, two-cabin accomodation, superb sea keeping and speeds of up to 32 knots. Price from £564,477 www.princess.co.uk

Built 2013 onwards Length 47ft 6in Beam 13ft 11in Displacement 15100kg Engines Twin Volvo D6 435hp or twin Cummins QSB6.7 550hp

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

CUTTING Quiksling

Lifejacket manufacturer, Sea Safe Systems, has developed a new MOB recovery system, aiding the quick recovery of in-water casualties. Developed by a pilot boat coxswain, Quiksling is a floating, lifebuoy-like throw-out device to speedily capture someone immersed in water, and doubles as a sling frame so the MOB can be lifted to safety. Price from £624 www.seasafe.co.uk

Mastervolt DC to DC Converter

If you own a boat with a 24 volt DC system. The Mastervolt DC to DC converter will allow you to install and power the more common 12 volt equipment. Said to be the most powerful unit of its kind, it can deliver a continuous 50 Amp and cope with startup currents of up to 60 Amp. For higher currents, up to 10 units can be installed in parallel. The unit weighs just 1.1kg and is only 355mm long, 127mm wide and 102mm deep.

Price £588 www.mastervolt.co.uk

Suzuki Multi Function Gauge

Suzuki has unveiled its new Multi Function Gauge with a 3.5” LCD colour display. The new gauge displays a variety of information including engine rpm, speed, trim angle and diagnostics based on data received from the outboard motor. Designed to be easy to see, read and understand digital and analogue functions in day and night modes. It is now available as an upgrade with DF9.9B–DF300AP outboards. Price from £445.51 www.suzuki-marine.co.uk

July 2015

the latest boating gear and technology

Digital Yacht DTV100 TV antenna

The DTV100 HD TV is a super sensitive, hi-gain amplified antenna that allows you to access the latest digital terrestrial TV services onboard. The 280mm (11.5”) diameter antenna is omni-directional, so no alignment is required, plus it provides a feed for an FM stereo radio. It can be pole mounted or attached to a standard 1inch x14TPI style base used for VHF and GPS antennas. It operates on 12 or 24V and comes with an amplifier to adjust the gain. Price £125 www.digitalyacht.co.uk

Henri Lloyd Fast Dri

Traditional cotton is so last year. With advances in new materials, Henri Lloyd bring us its new Fast Dri Silver range. A comfortable, quick drying and lightweight range of tops that offer UV protection. Polo shirts, long and short sleeved T’s, are available in various colours, in men’s sizes S-XXL and women’s sizes XS–XL. Price from £30-40 www.henrilloyd.co.uk

Wild & Wolf Glugg Thirst Extinguisher Bottle

Hudson Wight Performance Jacket Hudson Wight has redesigned its Performance Jacket. The new jacket now has ‘lime garage detail’ on pocket zips, a chest pocket and a roomier collar. It is available in sizes S-XL and in colours blue and grey. Price £149 www.hudsonwight.com

You can quench your thirst and fool your boating friends that you are drinking out of a fire extinguisher, with this quirky Glugg water bottle. The 600ml bottle has a flip out plastic straw, while the lid acts as a handle. The bottle stands 27cm tall and is 7cm in diameter. 50p from each sale will go to the charity, Water Aid. Price £10 www.exitinteriors.co.uk

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

CRUISING

D-Day Coast

D-Day Ambition by Richard Poat

Guernsey boater and DIY boat builder Richard Poat gives an account of his biggest cruising adventure to France yet. This wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just an ordinary holiday though, in the 70th anniversary year of the D-Day landings, he was on a mission to see the beaches in Normandy. In particular he wanted to pass under the legendary Pegasus Bridge and visit the Mulberry Harbour at Arromanches. All this single-handed in his 23ft 6-knot motorboat Honey Chile III

rom my home port in Guernsey, I am well acquainted with all the ports in the Channel Islands, and have made regular trips to Carteret and a couple to Cherbourg in my 23ft home-

built boat, Honey Chile III. A conversation about the 70th anniversary of D-Day at the 2014 London Boat Show got me thinking about going a little further afield than I would normally venture, and I

July 2015

Portsmouth “The challenge was to take my 23ft 6-knot ‘chugger’ to some familiar ports. But this time it was all down to me”

ENGLISH CHANNEL Cherbourg

Guernsey Jersey

Carteret St Vaast Carentan Arromanches

Ouistreham Caen

Richard travelled 117 miles to accomplish his mission, to see Pegasus Bridge and Arromanches Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

CRUISING

D-Day Coast

“I realised in the Alderney Race that I had left my €700 spending money behind”

started to wonder how difficult it would be to get to Caen? The fuse was lit, so I went out and bought a new almanac, charts, a new tide atlas and then mulled it over for a few months, questioning in my mind whether the trip was do-able. Of course, with all the best laid plans, it would all come down to weather. Working on the theory that I should be able to move every third day, I planned the trip with

Honey Chile III has a basic galley with a two burner hob and grill, sink and an electric kettle

a 25 day window and booked the time off work. Planning continued with the preparation of the boat. I gave the hull and prop a pressure wash and a good clean and polish. I checked the engine (yes, it was still there were I left it) and loaded lots of engine spares and kit onboard. However, as the start date approached, I was getting nervous. I was quite familiar with the ports on my itinerary, as in the past I have visited these places when I have been crewing on cruise-in-company lead boats, such as a 39ft Broom and a 42ft flybridge Princess doing 20 plus knots. The challenge, if you want to call it that, was to take my 23ft 8in 6-knot ‘chugger’ and link all the old trips together, but this time it was all down to me. The big day arrived and the start time was set for 11am. I made a last minute check – food, clothes, camera, phone charger and wallet – it was time to go. This

July 2015

A 4am start from Cherbourg revealed glass-like sea and the best sunrise ever, passing Barfleur

was a trip and a half for me, so to start the engine, turn on the radios and nav kit and cast off, just like I have done hundreds of times before, for something I have never done before was a weird feeling. The day was perfect, sea state smooth, tide going the right way and after an hour I was heading up the Alderney Race. It was then I discovered that, although I checked I had my wallet, I did not have my 700 Euros cash spending money! Never mind, it was too late to turn back. I was able to hit the Alderney Race at a ‘sweet spot’ and, in no time at all, I was in the Outer harbour at Cherbourg. There was just enough time for a quick pit stop before the next part of the trip to Ouistreham, so I went to my favourite Cherbourg restaurant, La Pizza, for my favourite dish, a Calzone, (a folded pizza) and a cold beer. A few hours later I was on my way again. The forecast could not have been better,

force 1–2 with calm seas. At 5am the next morning, the sea was like a sheet of glass. I have heard this saying many times, and I have even said it myself, but this was really it. An hour later I witnessed

One man and his boat. Richard’s wheelhouse ‘selfie’ from his epic passage to Ouistreham

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

CRUISING

D-Day Coast

the best sunrise ever, passing Barfleur Point. The day was spent just lapping up the lovely weather, eating, drinking and taking ‘selfies’. Ten hours after leaving Cherbourg, and with just two hours left to the last waypoint, I suddenly found myself in the shallow waters of the Plateau Du Calvados. There were dark shapes in the sand below the boat that may have been wartime wrecks, or simply just rocks, but it was like being in a maze. At one point I was back-tracking to get into deeper water and after some time, I found my way out, “phew”! The wind and the tide had picked up in the last 5 miles, so I was relieved to join the queue for the lock at Ouistreham. I got the lines and fenders ready on both sides, and when the lights turned green I joined the procession heading into the lock. It was a mad scrum, and being single-handed, and maybe because I had

Honey Chile III passes under the mighty Pegasus Bridge on the Caen Canal

not slept much since I left Guernsey, I got into a bit of a mess. With a bit of help from the yachtsman behind, I ended up facing the right way. Once out of the lock, I started to cruise up the Canal du Caen to Pegasus Bridge. I moored up just before the bridge, and then helped moor up the

After a long day’s cruising Richard overnighted on the canal bank, just downstream of Pegasus Bridge 42

July 2015

Time for another ‘selfie’ and Richard celebrates arriving in Caen with a bottle of champagne and a sandwich

yacht who had helped me in the lock. I joined them for dinner and a glass or two of wine, during which they informed me that the bridge would be opening to let boats through later that evening. I was shattered and wanted to sail into Caen in daylight, not midnight. I thanked them for a lovely time, waved goodbye as they went on their way through the bridge, and went to bed. The first opening of the bridge the next morning was at 0910 hrs. Excited, I awoke early and walked across Pegasus Bridge, and stood in the same place as the Royal family and heads of state from countries around the world, during the commemoration ceremony. It was such an awe-inspiring place, the allies landed here just after midnight on D-Day, 70 years earlier. At 0900 hrs I started my engine and took my place in line to pass under this mighty bridge. The bridge stirred into life, rising high in the air, and I made my way through, feeling chuffed to have such an iconic bridge open for me. OK, not

just for me, but it felt like it. It took about an hour and a half to get into the basin in the city of Caen. Most of the canal is commercialised, but there are still some nice bits. I passed some swans and a doll, who looked as if it had taken itself for a swim, but saw no humans. There are three bridges on the canal, Pegasus being the first, a large swing bridge half way up and a small swing bridge at the entrance to the basin in Caen. I was shown to a nice berth and was given a registration form to fill in.

Richard’s 23ft Custom built Plymouth Pilot Honey Chile III moored in the centre of Caen

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

CRUISING

D-Day Coast

Richard was accompanied by the Westerley Owners Association back down the canal from Caen

I took it to the office where the harbour master misread my 7.2m length entry for 17.2m. He was about to charge me over 100 Euros when I had a word. I had entered Guernsey as my home port and he believed I had made a mistake, that a 7.2m boat was too small for such a passage. I took him out and showed him Honey

In the heat of his enclosed wheelhouse Richard resorted to dunking his feet in cool water

Chile III and he was a bit surprised to say the least. The bill was reduced to 38 Euros for two nights, much better. The next day I spent walking around and sightseeing. I had to buy and send a postcard to my friend John, who took me through my CEVNI inland waterway exam. His only request was a postcard for his collection, and I was more than happy to oblige. I found a card and stamp but could I find a post box? They are cream or yellow in France, the UK have red ones, in Guernsey they are blue and in Sark, well itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gold, for the gold medal in the London Olympics. So far I had had four days of perfect weather and the following day still looked good for my trip to Carentan. I left on the first bridge with around 20 or so yachts from the Westerley Owners Association. The day was hot, so hot that I was driving with my feet in a bowl of water. Once

July 2015

Utah Beach ‘selfie’. But seeing the people enjoying the perfect sand left Richard feeling sad, thinking of all the many lives lost

again I went under Pegasus Bridge and into the lock. This time I went through the lock like a pro. Although the weather on the internet looked good, it wasn’t until the gates opened that I could actually see what it was like and I was very releived to see it was indeed, lovely. My plan was to go west along the D-Day beaches to the entrance of the canal to Carentan. Once out of the lock at Ouistreham my feet went straight back into the bowl of cold water. It was the start of another perfect day. The first thing I came to was the Mulberry Harbour at Arromanches. This was the

second of the two sights I wanted to see, the first being Pegasus Bridge. These huge concrete structures were floated across the English Channel overnight and were assembled into deep water harbours. The harbour is full of debris, both charted and uncharted, but I had to go in. To get this close and not to go in would be a great shame. I went through the entrance and into the deepest part. Inside I lay alongside one of the bigger sections, just long enough to say ‘I was there’. It was massive. I crept out and was soon on my way again. As I still had lots of time, I anchored off

The harbour entrance and the ghostly concrete structures at Arromanches were the second sight on Richard’s ‘must-do’ list Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

CRUISING

D-Day Coast Carentan is a lovely, peaceful town with many restaurants and a pretty, tree-fringed marina

Utar Beach, which was on the American side of the D-Day landing area. It was a lovely beach with lots of people enjoying the perfect sand. I jumped into the dinghy as it was time for another â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;selfieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. However, seeing the beach made me think of all the soldiers who lost their lives, so that we can enjoy this place today. After some reflection, it was time to move on. The canal to Carentan has a buoyed

channel to mark the entrance. There should have been 12 buoys but only 11 were in position as No. 2 buoy was on the beach. It is a 45-minute trip up the canal to the lock. I now had this lock thing well and truly sewn up. I glided through like a rocket on rails and on into the wide, perfectly straight, 1.5km tree-lined canal. Half way down, just past a polo court, are the pontoons for locals and visitors.

Honey Chile III outbound in the lock at Carentan 46

July 2015

I love this place. I moored up and went to pay my 45 Euro dues for three nights and got an extra night free. I went for a look around the town, found a post box, and said goodbye to John’s card. I found a great eating place and had yet another Calzone. The next couple of days were spent peddling around on my fold up bike, exploring and having picnics in some lovely places. By now, in the short space of time since my adventure began, I had achieved all I set out to do. My mission was complete. Now, with more than two weeks left, it was holiday time. The weather was still holding and it was time to leave Carentan and head for Saint Vaast la Hougue, a three hour hop along the coast. The day was calm but overcast and, as I left the canal, I not only noticed that No. 2 buoy was still on the beach, but I also spotted several D-Day wrecks lying in the sand. To my amazement, on entering St Vaast, I came across the Motorboat Owner Cruise in Company. I moored next to their control boat April Fool and was pleased to

It was market day in St Vaast and it was huge

see my best friends, there were so many old faces to catch up with too. Sadly, the next day, they were on their way to their next destination and we had to say our farewells. However, St Vaast has so much to offer and the next day was market day, the biggest one I have ever seen. If you have never been to a French Market, you must try to do this one. Beds, books, belts, booze, it’s all there. After discovering my bike had a puncture, I walked to the next village and bought a new inner tube. With my bike fixed, I headed off along the coast with my picnic. St Vaast is a big fishing port and, with my roots in commercial

Rafted up in St Vaast with the Motorboat Owner Cruise in Company fleet

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CRUISING

D-Day Coast

Cherbourg celebrated the Figaro Yacht Race arrival, so Honey Chile III was dressed for the occasion

fishing, I was very much at home. This is a place where old wooden boats are repaired by skilled craftsmen. I spent a long time watching them work on a 60ft trawler. It was the sort of boat you would expect to see laid up and rotting, but not here. The repair work is done, and done well. It was now time to retrace my passage to Cherbourg, and what a contrast it was to St Vaast. I arrived in time to see the arrival of the Figaro Yacht Race. All 25 singlehanded yachts travelling up from Spain to be met by an entourage, taking their lines and helping them moor up. For the next

Richard walked to the outer perimeters of Cherbourgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vast fortified harbour and found several, small hidden harbours along the way

three days the whole place partied. There were lots of stands and stalls around the marina, and a rock concert every night. Finally the weather broke, the heavens opened and the last day was a washout, France went out of the World Cup and I had Calzone number seven. The outer harbour of Cherbourg is a vast place, and ever changing. The huge French aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle was at anchor in the harbour while I was there. I know the town well, but I wanted to go from the far west to the far east of the harbour. Here I discovered three small local harbours, one tucked under a flyover, that I never knew existed. Leaving Cherbourg is always a long drawn-out affair, as it is so big, but happily I passed Cap de la Hague at the right time and cruised on to my favourite port, Carteret. It is the closest bit of France to Guernsey, and I visit several times a year to see friends. Sadly there were no Calzoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available, but you could have a horse burger instead. Another yacht race

July 2015

Richard could not resist stopping at his favourite port, beautiful Carteret

arrived the next day, so I found a place to sit and watch the arrival of the 148 boats. They were rafted 10 deep in the marina and made a wonderful sight. A huge BBQ was put on and we danced to the live music all night. Apparently all the crews went back to their boats after the dancing finished and promptly left, as when I got up early the next morning to take pictures, they had all gone. Following a trip to the biscuit factory, to stock up on chocolate chip cookies, I left Carteret bound for Gorey to do some shopping. Gorey is a drying port on the south east side of Jersey. I stayed here only one night before

moving on to Sark. Each year there is a rowing race from Dixcart Bay in Sark to Bon Huit in Jersey. Sixty-five rowing boats took part this year, each one with its own safety boat, plus a marshal boat and other boats for spectators. In total there are usually over 200 boats. I got to Dixcart early after the bumpy trip from Gorey. My daughter was rowing in a five-girl team and one by one boats started to arrive. In just two hours the whole south east of Sark had boats anchored everywhere. Dolphins played on the tide and danced around the boats. Then there was a mass up-anchor and pandemonium as the race started. I made my way home and my daughter’s team came 15th. It was the end of a momentous boating holiday. LOGBOOK

‘Honey Chile III’ Plymouth Pilot 24 hull Single Iveco 55hp shaftdrive diesel engine

The Jersey drying harbour of Gorey was the last overnight stop on Richard’s cruising adventure

Calzone count: 7 Distance cruised: 300nm approx Fuel used: 179.83 litres (39.56 gallons)

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USED BOAT

SECOND LOOK

Sealine S24 1999 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Voyagerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

ealine had a sub 25ft, trailerable four berth cruiser in their line up from the day the company launched in 1971, right through until 2009. They started with the Continental 23, which was followed by the 22 Sport and Cabin in around 1980. This was superceded by the 215 Envoy in 1986, which became the 218 Envoy in 1989, and later renamed and promoted to become the 220 Senator in 1991. These last three boats were all but identical, apart

from a few minor tweaks. Then in late 1992 Sealine launched an all-new compact cruiser, sporting their new bulbous and curvy features. This boat was called the 230 Senator, was renamed the 240 Senator in 1994 and then the S24 in 1998. Another complete redesign saw the birth of the S23 in 2002, which was rebranded the S25 in 2004, and which remained in production until it was dropped from the lineup in 2009. In this respect Sealine has done

July 2015

FOR SALE

£22,950

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

A very usable galley with everything you need except an oven. There is room to fit a microwave

more to introduce people to compact boat cruising than almost any other British manufacturer. Yes the other big British builders have dabbled in this area, even Broom and Sunseeker have built trailable boats at one time, but only Fairline hung around long enough to make a real impression on this market, and they bailed out when the 21 Sprint ceased production in 1991. The truth is, if you want a used but modern, compact British built family cruiser, you are almost certainly going to find yourself looking at a lot of Sealines, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why this month we bring you Voyager, a 1999 Sealine sporting the S24 badge. The 230, 240 and S24 models are more or less identical, with just a few very minor changes to the model as it evolved. Colour schemes, interior fabric and engine choices are where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the main 52

differences, and during its production run this model was available with a single petrol or diesel engine, from either Volvo Penta or MerCruiser, with petrol versions offering between 145hp and 235hp, and diesel engines between 130hp and 170hp. Voyager is fitted with a 190hp Volvo Penta 4.3GL V6 engine and SX drive, which should deliver a top speed of around 30 knots and a comfortable cruising speed in the mid 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. While a diesel version, fitted with a KAD32, will provide similar performance with smaller fuel bills, you should not dismiss a V6 powered boat like Voyager. Firstly, the purchase price will be a few thousand pound less, secondly it will be quieter, smoother and less smelly, and lastly, despite the headline figures, the fuel savings for short hops, quick blasts and days out are not as significant as you might think. Sure, if you are looking to cross the

July 2015

Channel, and an S24 is more than capable of doing so, a diesel version makes a lot of sense, but for more typical use a V6 is, perhaps, the perfect engine. The engine on Voyager starts easily and purrs along smoothly and quietly. You should expect fuel consumption of around 8 gallons per hour at a cruising speed of around 25 knots, rising to around 13 gallons per hour running flat out, giving you an economy in the 2-3nm per gallon range. A quick instrument test revealed that although the drive trimmed as commanded, the gauge wasn’t moving. This is usually a simple job that can be fixed when the boat is next lifted by looking at the trim sender, which is bolted to the drive suspension fork. We also noticed that one of the trim tabs was not retracting. Voyager is fitted with Eltrim tabs and the motors are prone to water ingress if the rubber bellows are not changed frequently. It may just be a wiring fault, but the worse case scenario is that a new motor will be required*. The cabin layout is textbook compact four-berth cruiser. There is a dinette

forward that converts into a double, a double berth under the cockpit, a galley and a toilet compartment. The dinette table is small and would be perfect for two, comfortable for three and a bit of a squeeze for four. There appears to be a leak from the starboard window, as the dinette upholstery in this area is showing signs of water damage. It should clean up, but may need a small repair to stop it getting any worse. Beneath the seating are the usual large bilge lockers, one either side, and one in the bow, with plenty of space to store kit and bags for extended stays onboard. In the starboard locker we noticed a coil of what looks to be original Sealine wiring. We suspect this was for the optional anchor winch, which Voyager doesn’t have, and would make retrofitting one a very simple job indeed. Moving aft, there is a half-height hanging locker on the starboard side and behind this is the toilet compartment. This is very well equipped with a sink, sea toilet, an opening port and a shower, but on a boat of this size you have to accept

The dinette converts into a double berth and is sized to comfortably take two or three for dinner

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USED BOAT

SECOND LOOK

Headroom is rather tight in the toilet compartment, but features everything you need

The galley has better headroom, especially with the companionway hatch open 54

that head height is going to be an issue. With a maximum of 5’4” it is going to be quite tight for many people, so seated showers are probably going to be the order of the day. There does not appear to be a shower curtain so I am not sure how you would keep your towel and toilet roll dry, as they are kept on the back of the door, and I also suspect that water will run down the door and end up wetting the carpet outside. Personally I would look to add a simple curtain across the inside of the door if I was going to be regularly showering onboard. There is no locker in the toilet, but Sealine added a couple of holders to keep your lotions and potions in place when underway. The toilet roll holder should have a lid, but this has broken off*, and the shower mixer head has also snapped off*. Opposite the toilet is the galley. This offers a sink with hot and cold water, a two-burner gas hob with grill and a decent sized electric fridge. There is no oven, but with a useful amount of work surface next to the sink you could probably install a small microwave if needed. The hob lid provides more useful work surface when the hob is not in use and you could also install a cover over the sink if more working space is required. Below the sink there is a huge double storage cupboard for supplies, and above there is some open crockery storage. Headroom in the cabin is not great, at just 5”10” throughout, but that’s no reason for the loftier crew to get out of doing the washing up. With the companionway hatch above open, you have around 7ft of headroom standing at the sink. There is an opening port above the galley, which is of the style where the top opens inwards. It is quite unusual to

July 2015

see this old fashion design on a modern boat, but they are actually very useful for providing ventilation when it’s raining without allowing the rain to come in. The boat’s main sleeping area is a crawl in double berth going beneath the cockpit sole. The berth is curtained off from the main cabin for privacy and is reasonably generous at 6’6” in length and 4’ wide. The crawl through hole is also of a pretty good size, so getting in and out should not prove too difficult. In this cabin there is a window with an opening port, a single reading light and a small locker that houses, and gives very easy access to, the boat’s two toilet seacocks, the holding tank changeover valve and the fresh water pump. There are a couple of mouldings in this area that have worked loose, but these simply need screwing back in place. In general the boat’s interior is in pretty good fettle. The carpet is good and the cabin linings are damage free. There is the odd area where the vinyl lining has become loose, due to the foam backing giving up, but this is quite usual on a boat of this age. The boat’s two portable dry powder extinguishers, one in the mid cabin and one in the galley, are both charged and in date. At the helm Sealine gave S24 owners a proper two-person helm seat, even bigger than the one fitted to the S28. This is more important than it sounds, as often on a boat of this size the second crew ends up sitting sideways on a sun lounger or, worse still, alone in the aft part of the cockpit. The driving position feels right, visibility is good and the wraparound windscreen should provide good protection when underway. There are windscreen wipers on both sides of the screen to help maintain

The mid cabin is easy to get into and reasonably generous in size. An opening port provides light

visibility when the weather is inclement. Engine instruments are set forward in there own pod, with a compass placed just in front. The compass on Voyager is devoid of fluid, so will need either re-filling or replacing. Electronics wise, Voyager is sparsely equipped with just a Raymarine Tridata speed, depth and log instrument mounted in a separate pod next to the engine instruments. There is no VHF and no chartplotter/ multi function display. Moreover, finding somewhere to fit these items may prove to be rather challenging, as there is little

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USED BOAT

SECOND LOOK

The helm layout is good, and a large double helm seat provies two comfortable seats for long passages

available space. You could fit something underneath the windscreen on the port side, but it will be too far away to control while at the helm. More likely, and what other 230/240/S24 owners have done, is that you will have to forego some, or all, of the small chart area directly in front of the helm and surface mount any kit here. Alternatively you may be able to squeeze some smaller bits of kit on either side of the compass, or just above the switchgear to port of the steering wheel. If you do use the chart area, all is not lost, there is another covered chart pocket on top of the companionway hatch which, when in its open position, is conveniently placed in front of the second crew member. The cabin door, which has a large oval window to allow light down below, even when closed, opens and latches back in place against the port side cockpit coaming. The aft cockpit has U-shaped seating 56

across the transom and up both sides. This seating comprises three separate sections that can be used individually or in any combination. With all three in place access into the boat will mean stepping onto the seating. It may be beneficial to leave the port seat out, which would allow unhindered access over the port side and from the bathing platform using the small transom door. If there were just two of you on board you could even leave the starboard seat off the boat and just use the transom seat. For larger groups the seating can be supplemented with one of Sealineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clever and innovative features that they seem to manage to build into every boat they make. In this case the helm seat hinges forward to provide another aft facing seat on the helm seat base. With it set up like this you could have six, seven, or maybe eight people sitting sociably in the cockpit around the decent sized table.

July 2015

A very sociable cockpit with seating for up to eight, with the helm seat swung out of the way

The table can be lowered and the underhelm cushion can then be used as an infill to create a sunpad, or even an occasional double berth. Although the two short legs for the sunpad configuration were in a locker, I did not see the two longer legs that are required to use the cockpit table. It would be worth checking with the seller that these are available. The cockpit table can be stored underneath the helm seat when it is not needed. The original vinyl for all the seating is in reasonable condition, although the helm seat is just starting to crack. Storage is in rather short supply in the cockpit, although with other places to store fenders and such, this is not too big a deal. There is a small locker in the port coaming and another large, but less easily accessible, locker in the transom coaming beneath the seating. Also on the port side, just in front of the cabin door, is the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self draining gas locker. This is capable of housing a pair of 907 size Camping Gaz bottles. The fuel shut off, battery master switches and shorepower socket are all

fitted into the cockit coaming, but are all beneath the seating when it is in place. The shorepower socket has a broken lid*. The engine bay is accessible through a large aft cockpit floor hatch, although all of the cockpit seating must be removed first. The stay that props the hatch open seems to be missing its retaining pin but a

Easy access over the transom, but the seat will be stood on unless it is removed first

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USED BOAT

SECOND LOOK

The 190hp V6 engine runs sweetly and the boat has a brand new engine start battery

suitable clevis or drop nose pin should be easily obtained. The engine bay itself looks reasonably clean and tidy, the exhaust manifolds and risers look to be in good condition but there is some evidence of surface rust between the joins, so these should probably be inspected more closely with a view of changing them if required. The boat has spent the last 18 months on fresh water, but its usage before that is unknown and these items only have a lifespan of around five years on salt water. The engine bay houses the boat’s two batteries, one of which was replaced with a brand new one on the day of my visit, the hot water calorifier, a battery charger and the holding tank. Even with a full bay like this, access around the engine for service and repairs looks reasonable. We noted that there was no automatic fire extinguishing system in place, which would almost certainly be an insurance stipulation. An empty Halon bottle was spotted in one of the lockers so

a replacement dry powder or clean agent automatic cylinder will need procuring. We also spotted that the manual bilge pump had broken away from its housing and would need fixing or replacing*. The full camper canopy is in excellent condition, and looks to be a reasonably recent addition, although there are one or two fixings on the boat that have come away and need replacing. The canopy provides excellent headroom of up to 6’4”, in the cockpit. The bathing platform is a useful size and as well as a step up to the transom door, hosts a built in four fender storage rack, a bathing ladder, a transom shower and a very clever and unobtrusive moulded fibreglass auxiliary outboard mount. The transom shower is missing its protective cover* and the cold tap is missing its knob*. Unlike US boats of a similar size, there is no walkthrough windscreen for foredeck access. Instead Sealine provided proper sized side decks. Moving forward

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USED BOAT

SECOND LOOK

The canopy looks to be almost new and provides excellent headroom throughout the cockpit

on these is aided by grab rails above the side sections of windscreen and then a pulpit rail from amidships. There is a small section where neither provides much security and this one step does require a bit of a leap of faith moving forward. The

Decent sidedecks are a bonus on this size of boat 60

foredeck is quite steep and, while it has an effective non slip surface, care would need to be taken as, with little flat working area, walking on the sloping surface is quite unavoidable. Up front there is a Delta Anchor, housed inside one of Sealine’s 1990’s droopy noses, and a decent sized anchor locker, certainly big enough to store a couple of fenders, but the lifting eye for the locker lid has broken off*. We spotted that the light mast has been customized to make it removable. This reduces air draft by around a foot or so and has been done in such a way that installing or removing it should be easy. Unfortunately poor storage of the unit has meant that one of the lenses has broken. These can’t be replaced on their own, so a whole new light unit will be needed*. The exterior gelcoat of Voyager appears to be in good condition. There was one small gelcoat chip on the bow, and a couple of minor mooring scrapes on the aft sides of the hull, but other than that a good polish would have her looking very presentable.

July 2015

Conclusion The Sealine 230/240/S24 would make a perfect first cruiser. It’s small enough to be easily handled, light enough that it could be trailed with a suitable vehicle, and capable of everything from day boating and watersports to fully fledged cruising. The V6 as fitted to Voyager is the best compromise between the economy of a diesel and the outright performance, and big fuel bills, of the V8. On the whole Voyager seems like a sound boat that will provide years of good service. We noted a few little faults as we looked around the boat, but these really are insignificant and you are unlikely to find a boat of this age on the market without an equal share of minor problems. To put it into perspective, we have spoken to Seabridge Marine, who now supply many of the parts that were fitted to Sealines, and gave them our shopping list of the items we have marked with a *. The total bill was around £350, and this includes over £200 for a new trim tab motor which, fingers crossed, may not be needed. Add another £45 to replace the engine room fire extinguisher with a automatic dry powder and you will still get change out of £400, £200 without the tab motor. With the parts in hand, the averagely competent DIYer could have all these faults rectified in an afternoon. The boat is listed for just shy of £23k, which is about top end for its age and specification. If the survey throws up nothing major, and you could get this

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boat on the water for around £20k, we think you would be very happy with your purchase. With our little shopping list in mind we think an offer of around £19k would be in the right ballpark.

Boat Name: Voyager Make/Model: Sealine S24 Year: 1999 Engine: 1x Volvo Penta 4.3GL 190hp petrol LOA: 24ft 8in / 7.52m Beam: 8ft 2in / 2.49m Displacement: 2100kg Fuel: 222 litres Water: 86 litres Thames Boat Sales 01932 570055 www.thamesboatsales.co.uk

0800 310 2100

Motorboat www.motorboatowner.co.uk

A well designed multi-purpose bathing platform

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Marine Electronics in stock for immediate dispatch.

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

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USED BOAT

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ÂŁ1K

CHALLENGE

PROJECT Mayland 16

he project boat is getting nearer and nearer completion with just a few items left on the jobs list. This month I set out with the aim of crossing another one off and the job in question was the galley. Now the galley on a boat as small as our 16ft Mayland isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ever going to be much, but if we are going to spend time onboard we are going to need some basic facilities for cooking, making tea and cleaning up afterwards. We started with what can only be

described as a raised fibreglass moulding. It is listed in the original brochure as the galley, but there was actually nothing galley-like about it at all. No sink, no cooking facilities, not even a truly flat surface that you could work on without things rolling away. My plan was to add a sink with some basic form of running water and make a place where we could boil a kettle or even fry a sausage. Our galley plans actually extend back to the end of last winter when we attended the Essex Boat Jumble in Colchester. We

July 2015

“For just under £30 we now have a galley and running water” managed to pick up a lovely little round stainless steel sink, complete with some waste fittings for £5. To add to this I had in my garage, yes the garage comes to the rescue again, the old manual faucet that was originally fitted to my old Bayliner. This was ripped out and replaced with a proper hot and cold pressurized water system and, not being one to throw things away in case it might one day ‘come in handy’, it has been gathering dust ever since. The tap-cum pump is a chromed plastic model that was looking a bit worse for wear so, before starting, I gave it a quick once over with some sandpaper and a spray with some leftover matt black paint. This has improved it’s looks no end. Luckily I had also kept the pipe work connections for it, so fitting it was going to be pretty easy.

From the factory the ‘galley’ was nothing more than a raised moulded area of fibreglass

First I needed to sort out a worktop. I could have just used the existing fibreglass moulding, but it was far from level and it looked rather tatty. Instead I decided to make a worktop by using some pieces of leftover laminate flooring. These were designed for use in kitchens and bathrooms so should stand up to a bit of dampness if required. I edged the laminate with some softwood moulding,

A nice stainless steel sink was bought from the Essex boat jumble for just £5, and a manual pump tap was retrieved from my garage. Owners of 1980’s Bayliners will recognize its origin Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

bought from a DIY store for £5, and I used some off cuts of laminate flooring to act as pillars underneath the new worktop to level it up. The water supply is taken care of with a flexible 20 litre water container that will live in a plastic crate in the space underneath. I have rigged this up so that it can be easily disconnected, and the crate, with water container inside, can be removed from the boat for refilling. Basic cooking facilities will be taken 1

I started by joining two strips of laminate flooring together with waterproof PVA glue and then cut them to size

I then worked out where the sink was going to be placed and marked on the new worktop where the cut out was needed

care of by using a single portable gas hob. I know that these things need to be treated with great care on board a boat, in fact the Boat Safety Scheme actively discourages them, but realistically this is the only way we are going to be able to produce hot stuff afloat. Our hob was bought from Tow Sure during their closing down sale and cost us just £7 because the plastic carrying box was broken. Here’s how we transformed Olive’s galley into a ‘Galley’.

Because the ‘galley’ was not level, I used off cuts of laminate flooring to make blocks for the new worktop to sit on

This was then cut out with a jigsaw. I used the sink as a template to mark the cut out but made the hole 10mm smaller all around

Once the worktop was ready, it was trimmed with some softwood edges to give it the look of something much more substantial

With the worktop back in place the fibreglass beneath could be marked and cut out, again using a jigsaw

July 2015

The tap/manual pump was in a poor state but was dismantled, rubbed down and sprayed in a tough matt black coating

A hole was then drilled through the worktop and the fibreglass to take the hose fixing for the tap, and the tap was fixed in place

Using the bits that came with the sink, and a few other plumbing bits I had, I managed to come up with some usable waste pipework

Below I could now mark where the sink would drain overboard and drill a small pilot hole from inside

Working from the outside I now drilled the larger hole to take the waste throughhull fitting

This was then bonded and sealed to the hull using my old faithful tube of Sika 291 from the fridge, and still usable after well over a year

The Sika 291 was also used to bond and seal the sink in place. With no mechanical fixings for the sink I would be relying totally on Sikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adhesive qualities

With the Sika dry, the waste pipework below the sink was connected to the through-hull outlet

We are using a 20 litre flexible water tank which is being housed in a plastic crate to protect it against sharp edges in the bilge

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The crate has been fitted with some handles to enable the whole ensemble to be easily taken off the boat and refilled

To make the tank easily removable I used this pair of quick release tap connectors designed for aquarium filter pipework and bought on eBay

Job done, we have running, or rather pumped, water. The single burner gas hob can be placed alongside when needed

Elsewhere things have pretty much ground to a halt due to a very busy month. The curtains are finished, but we need to add some fixings to the boat, and the last of the interior cushions is still to be completed. Claire did give the boat a clean and the green superstructure a bit of a polish (see tested page 69), and Olive looks a whole lot better for it.

The water tank and its protective crate/carry case plumbed in and ready to use. We will carry bottled water for drinking Motorboat Owner

£1K

CHALLENGE

This month’s spend

Quick release taps £5 Sink £5 Gas hob £7 Softwood mouldings £4.99 Through hull fitting £2.99 Flexible water tank £3.99

Monthly Total £28.97

Total to date: £984.35 Budget remaining: £15.65 A portable single burner gas hob can also be placed in the galley for making a quick brew. These hobs require careful use on board a boat

Time spent this month

23 hours 30 minutes

Total time to date 194 hours

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

tested Lotus Grill There are numerous ways in which being a boat owner, and going boating, enriches and brings happiness to my life. Having a BBQ onboard during a nice warm day is most definitely one of them. The trouble is though, unless you are fortunate enough to have one of those nice manufacturer fitted BBQs, griddles or grills mounted in your cockpit, or on your flybridge, you are stuck with trying to find somewhere to place a disposable BBQ, or fix one of those rail mounted jobbies. During our recent Cruise in Company we were able to indulge this pleasure one sunny but windy afternoon on the aft deck of a Sunseeker 53. It’s a tough job this testing business you know. The BBQ in question was a Lotus Grill, which consists of a 32cm diameter bowl (a larger version is available) inside which there is a small container for the BBQ charcoals. Beneath the charcoal container is a flat plate onto which you squeeze some BBQ lighting gel. Once this is alight the charcoal container, which holds around 250g of coal, is placed on top. The cooking grill is then placed

PRICE

£130

on top of the whole thing. The Lotus Grill contains a small battery powered fan that you crank up to get the coals going and then use as a way of controlling the heat levels, more air for hotter, less for cooler. The most surprising thing is just how quick you can be up and running. Within four minutes of lighting, the first sausages were on the go. The small amount of charcoal provides a cooking time of around 45 minutes, depending upon fan speed, although you can easily add more to extend this if required. The BBQ is almost entirely smoke free. We were using it underneath a canopy, but if doing the same you need to be wary of carbon monoxide build up. The bottom and sides

With the optional lid the Lotus is £190, which is expensive for a BBQ, but it works very well 68

July 2015

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

of the bowl remain cool enough during use to allow it to be picked up bare handed and moved around, and to use it on any surface without fear of damage. The BBQ comes with a carry bag to pack it away neatly, but if you want the lid that we were using, which is very useful to contain any spitting, it is a costly extra and doesn’t fit inside the storage bag. You can also get a taller lid that completely encloses the top to turn the Lotus Grill into an over for baking and roasting. The Lotus Grill is available in a range of funky colours and may well be the perfect boat BBQ. Unfortunately perfection doesn’t come cheap. The basic model is £130 and you need to fork out another £60 if you want the lid. Those kind of figures will buy you an awful lot of disposable BBQ’s and of course with a disposable you don’t have to worry about cleaning it afterwards. Luckily the Lotus Grill comes apart Motorboat Owner easily, so cleaning isn’t “It’s expensive, but it is the ultimate too difficult boat BBQ” or fiddly. Value

Usability

2/5

4/5

Performance 5/5 Contact: Lotus Grill UK www.lotusgrilluk.com

Feldten Marine Nano Extract Gelcoat Sealer PRICE 250ml

£19.99

We were working on the project boat earlier this month when Claire asked me if we had any polish. I thought she was wasting her time, given the very poor state of the Mayland’s dry, powdery, cracking and rough to the touch GRP, but I directed her to a selection of polishes and waxes and told her to take her pick. The product chosen was Feldten Marine Nano Extract Gelcoat Sealer, which promises to clean, polish, seal and protect. With very little work the sealer transformed the gelcoat into something that felt smooth, that almost shined, and on which water beaded on the surface of, rather than sinking in like a sponge. There’s nothing that can be done for the cracking and crazing, Olive is never going to look like a new boat again, but it made a big improvement. The Gelcoat Motorboat Sealer comes in 250ml and Owner 1000ml sizes, and seems “An amazing result to go a long way. We used on our damaged around half a 250ml bottle GRP” for the green superstructure Value 3/5 on the 16ft Mayland. Contact: Feldten Marine www.feldten-marine.com

Usability

4/5

Performance 5/5

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

Alfastreet Energy 23c

July 2015

BOAT TEST

Length (LOA): 7.80m / 25ft 7in Beam: 2.42m / 7ft 9in Displacement: 2000kg Battery capacity: 10kWh or 20kWh Water capacity: 100 litres RCD category: C (displacement) B (planing) Engine as tested: Single 7kW electric motor Other engine options: Single 4kW electric motor Single Honda or Yamaha outboard 15hp-25hp Single petrol MerCruiser or Volvo up to 300hp with sterndrive Single diesel Volvo, Hyundai, FNM or Yanmar up to 250hp with sterndrive Twin Weber 120hp or 150hp jet drive Price from ÂŁ31,188

Motorboat Owner ÂŠ Digital Marine Media Ltd

often hear people bemoan that new boats all look alike, and sometimes I am in mind to agree. Occasionally, however, a company brings something to market that is so radically different you just have to sit up and take notice. The boat that has had this effect on me most recently is the Alfastreet Energy 23C that I first saw at last year’s Southampton Boat Show. The boat’s are built in Slovenia and are being marketed in the UK through Windermere Boat Sales. We hot-footed it up to the Lake District to put the 23C through its paces on Lake Windermere. The Energy 23C is available in two models, with either a displacement or planing hull. The planing hulled boat, called the Energy 23CS, comes with a single petrol or diesel sterndrive of up to 300hp to provide a top speed of up to 40 knots and a cruising speed in the mid

20’s. It can also be powered by twin jet drives. We tested the displacement version, but in most other respects the boats are identical in terms of layout, features and accommodation. The displacement model can be equipped with either a petrol outboard of between 15hp and 25hp or, like the boat we were testing, with an electric motor. You can also get the 23 in an open boat format

July 2015

“An exceptionally clever coastal and inland cabin dayboat, with gadgets galore”

The hardtop roof lowers, clamshell like, which means you can moor up, lower the roof and walk away

called the Energy 23s. Outboard powered displacement models come with a fuel capacity of 12.5 or 25 litres, while planing hulled boats have a 270 litre tank. With a boat like the 23C it is difficult

to know where to start, so I’ll kick off with the optional roof. You could save the £9k and put a canvas tonneau cover over the cockpit, but the roof is such a unique feature it would be a crime to order a

At the touch of a button the roof rises again and can be left in an almost infinite number of positions Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

Hatches on the roof allow for easier access, aided by steps down into the cockpit

A cockpit galley is a standard feature. Our test boat had an optional bench seat instead

23C and not put a tick next to it on the options list. It operates hydraulically and, when fully up, it delivers around 6ft of headroom in the cockpit. With everybody seated it can be lowered half way to a point roughly level with the top of the windscreen for a more sheltered and protected ride, but the best thing is, when you leave the boat there are no canvas canopies to wrestle with. You simply push a remote control button and the roof retracts all the way down to provide a weather proof, and to a large extent intruder proof, enclosure for the cockpit that means you can pretty much step off at the end of the day and walk away. There is a small lifting and sliding section of the roof, around amidships on either side, which makes boarding and disembarking much easier and reduces to almost nothing the chance of banging your head on the way in or out of the cockpit. There is also an optional enclosure pack that allows you to protect the cockpit and its crew against the elements while the roof is up. With the roof fully extended the 23 has an air draft of 2.1m, but of course this can easily be reduced when necessary to just 1.45m by dropping the roof down to the same level as the windscreen. For such a unique and unusual boat the Alfastreet is not a particularly expensive vessel. Having said that, it certainly doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel cheap when you step onboard, rather the opposite. In fact, with highly polished woodwork featuring heavily, particularly at the helm and the cabin entrance, as well as carbon effect touches around the dashboard and Tek Dek decks and cockpit. Entrance into the boat is best achieved amidships where, not only do you have the lifting roof sections, you also have gunwale mounted teak effect steps and a further

July 2015

A very sociable aft cockpit with U-shaped seating around a nice polished cherry wood table

step inside made from polished wood with non slip inserts. These interior steps double up as storage, perfect for keeping your mooring lines or electric cable. The whole aft section of cockpit is given over to a large and sociable U shaped seating area around a table, with fold out leafs and eight built in cup/glass holders. As you would expect, there is under seat storage on both sides and the aft section of seating lifts to reveal what would, on a sterndrive version, be the engine room. On our electric powered boat we just had some wiring going to the electric motor, the speed controller and the rudder control cable, meaning this area could also be used for storage if required. Behind the aft seating is a flat raised teak effect aft deck. The starboard side of this deck has a clever drop down section that creates a step up and through access to the cockpit from the stern. The port section lifts to reveal a large rope locker. Our test boat was fitted with the optional Motorboat Owner ÂŠ Digital Marine Media Ltd

wooden bathing platform that comes ringed with a stainless steel protector and a bathing ladder. On the port side of the forward half of the cockpit you have a choice

The aft deck area has a clever built in step for access over the transom

You want extra light, air and headroom? No problem. The cabin roof lifts electrically

A simple helm with room for addtional electronics if required

of configurations. Our test boat had a simple fore and aft two person bench seat, beneath which was fitted a 12 volt drawer refrigerator, but the boat can be delivered with a galley unit featuring a small sink and stove, as well as the drawer fridge below. We understand the galley version is standard. In the bulkhead forward of this is a glove box and below is where the optional stereo is mounted in its waterproof case. Opposite this area is the helm that comprises a single seat with a small cupboard below. On our electric boat the carbon fibre effect helm console had a small display to monitor battery usage, display battery status and fault codes, and to configure and set up the system. There was also a simple depth gauge and an array of switches for various electrical circuits,

July 2015

The cabin is compact but offers useful accommodation for a couple with a double berth

leaving plenty of empty dashboard space to mount further electronics. If you were to order the planing hulled version for coastal use, you could easily fit a decent sized multifunction display here. A compass is mounted above the dashboard and a small windscreen offers protection to the helmsman when in the seated position. How well this screen would work at 40 knots I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know but for slow speed work is proved perfect. Below the polished wood steering wheel is a locker that contains all the electrical breakers and the battery master switch. The entrance to the cabin is a work of art. Two highly polished cherry wood doors, engraved with the model name at the top and finished with polished stainless steel hardware and two round There are also two seats aft, a swivel dining table ports, open up to reveal a compact, but and a chemical toilet Motorboat Owner ÂŠ Digital Marine Media Ltd

PERFORMANCE As tested 10kWh battery, 7kW motor 0% water 2 crew Force 3

usable, space for two. There is a single seat on either side with decent sitting headroom. A small table swings in between them to create a dinette. The backs to these seats drop to a level equal to that of the slightly higher bow cushions and then form part of the cabinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two single berths. Below the bow cushions there is a large storage area and, underneath a lifting middle section, there is a chemical toilet. The aft cabin seat bases can have optional drawers installed if required. There is an array of all round windows at high level that, together with the windows in the doors and a large mirror on the forward bulkhead, make the cabin feel light and airy, despite its compact size. At night there are LED lights overhead, as well as low down, to illuminate the step, but for added light and airyness the Alfastreet

Power

25% 50% 75% 100%

Knots

2.3 3.6 5.0 6.1

Range (nm) Noise Approx

27 21.5 16.1 10.7

53 56 64 81

has another unique trick up itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleeve. At the press of a button the whole cabin roof raises a few inches to provide extra headroom and all the fresh air you could want. When lowered the roof clamps down onto a rubber seal ensuring that the cabin should stay dry, whatever the conditions. To go forward on deck requires a bit of dexterity. The easiest way out is via the amidships access points, but you then need to maneuver yourself around the roof. Alternatively, on our test boat with the extra

July 2015

The cabin doors are a work of art. The electric version has a power monitoring display. Below, the ‘engine’ bay

“It literally felt and sounded like we were drifting along” bench seat on the port side, you can stand on the seat and move up and forward from here using a moulded step above the seat. The version with the galley is probably easier but you still need to watch your head as you duck out from beneath the roof. Once on the forward sidedecks you feel quite vulnerable as there is nothing to hang on to and the rails are very low. The side decks widen as you move forward, culminating in a decent flat working area up front, but the rails remain low, so it will always feel safer to be crouching, or even sitting on the cabin roof, when working this area. Having the cabin roof in the raised position actually helps, as it gives you something to lean into while working your way around. The cabin roof can be fitted with sunpads and, up front, an anchor Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

locker conceals the anchor winch, but doesn’t really provide big enough access for fender storage. A proboscis protects the bow, and would equally protect another vessel against your own anchor, should things get a little messy close quarters. The hull on our test boat was standard white, but the builders offer a range of really stand out hull colours and, although I am not normally one to stray too far from the conservative, I have to say some of the funky choices really do suit the avant-garde design of the 23. If I were specifying one, I would most definitely consider spending the £1400 that this options commands. Underway The electric version of the Energy 23C is available with either the standard 10kWh

battery pack or, for double the range, an optional 20kWh battery. It can also come with either a 4kW or 7kW electric motor. The boat we were testing had the 10kWh battery pack and the 7kW motor, which is said to provide a maximum range of about 30 nautical miles at its optimum speed of 2.6 knots, and around 11nm at its maximum speed of just over 6 knots. We found that at low speeds, of around 2 knots, there was zero noise and zero vibration. It literally felt, and sounded, like we were drifting, and our noise reading came purely from the ambient surroundings. As you crank the power up the range drops and you can start to hear the motor, although compared to an internal combustion engine it is still all but silent right up to a 75% power setting. At 100% power we achieved a maximum recorded speed of 6.1 knots, but noise levels were now quite high and vibrations were very evident. With an electric boat, efficiency is more important that outright speed, so for river or lake use

The cockpit seating converts into a sunpad, but to escape the shade of the roof try the foredeck

you would probably stick to cruising in the 50-75% power range for around 4 knots. Close quarters maneuvering is good, as you have an almost infinite amount of control of propeller rotation, so very accurate and very slow maneuvering can be easily accomplished. Conclusion We tested the electric version, which would make a practical and very different boat to keep on an inland waterway. If

July 2015

you have access to a power supply you could realistically have indefinite fuel free boating. I cannot comment on how the planing hulled boat handles but, from what I have seen, the 23CS looks just as comfortable going at speed in coastal waters, as it does pottering along a lake or river. There are so many great and unique features on this boat that it will certainly appeal to those that like to be a little different, but even the more traditional types can’t fail to be won over by the boats quirky looks and clever touches. It looks like the sort of boat that you might expect to have a ridiculously high price tag, but it is actually a rather affordable alternative to the more mainstream two berth cruisers.

The bathing platform is an option, as are stainless steel hydraulics for the roof on coastal based boats

ENQUIRIES: Windermere Boat Sales Tel: 015394 22695 www.windermereboatsales.co.uk YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Alfastreet 18

English Harbour 27

Intercruiser 27 Cabin

LOA: 5.80m Beam: 2.20m Displacement: 1300kgs Enquiries: Windermere Boat Sales 015394 22695 windermereboatsales.co.uk

LOA: 8.5m Beam: 3.1m Displacement: 3800kgs Enquiries: English Harbour Yachts 01832 274114 englishharbouryachts.com

LOA: 8.50m Beam: 3.00m Displacement: 3500kgs Enquiries: Val Wyatt Marine 01189 403211 www.valwyattmarine.co.uk

If you like to look of the 23, and are happy to forgo the cabin for more of a day boat, have a look at the Alfastreet 18.

PRICE from £19,968

Almost as quirky, the English Harbour 27 is also available with electric and internal combustion propulsion.

PRICE from £99,950

> NEXT MONTH Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

This Dutch boat offers generous cockpit space and a small cabin. It delivers quirkiness, but with a very traditional twist.

PRICE from £90,320

Hardy Commander 32

New and Used

Boats for Sale 01189 01189 403211 403211

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

Beavis Marine/22 Freeman / 23

Princess/32 Fairline / Sunfury 27

Langley/25’ Andrews 25’Slipper Slipper Launch Launch

Interboat/25 Interboat / 22

1995 1975 || £9,950 £8,500||22ft/6.7m 23ft | 7.0m

1978 1988 || £13,500 £18,000 || 32.3ft/9.9m 27ft | 8.23m

2000 || £24,500 £24,750 | 25ft 25ft/7.6m 1963 | 7.6m

2009 2006 | £44,950 £29,995 | 25.8ft/7.9m 22ft | 6.8m

AStunning fantasticexample little boat of for theinland popular 3 waterways and cruising. berth cruiser inestuary superb condition.

Well-maintained model with large Stylish 6 berth sports cruiser with cockpit and great accommodation. 2 cabins, suitable inland or at sea.

Built toclassic traditional specifications Sleek, slipper, well looked but with GRP hull. after andarecently refurbished.

Open day social boat for 10 people with Beautiful boat with expantoilet room, fridge, & bowthruster. sive seating, 27hp inboard & fridge!

Sealine/310 Sealine / 310Ambassador Ambassador

Sheerline/950 TriCabin Cabin Intercruiser / 27

Broom/38 Broom / 33Ocean

JL Pinder/English Intercruiser / 29 Barge

1994 1994 || £37,500 £29,950||31.5ft/9.6m 31.5ft | 9.6m

2006 2011 | £95,000 £79,950 | 31ft/9.4m 28ft | 8.5m

1998 || £139,950 38.5ft/11.7m 1992 £84,950 || 33ft | 10m

2008 | £110,000 £140,000 ||29.5ft 75ft/22.9m 2012 | 9m

AFantastic family sports well suited valuecruiser, family sports cruisfor river and coastal cruising. er, both twin 200hp engines, 4+2 berths.

An ideal river cruiser offering 4 PRICE REDUCED Superb entertainberths in 2cruiser, cabins.52hp, high spec. ing cabin

6 berthsmid-sized in 2 cabins plus lower Perfect cruiser with 6 saloon, beautiful 2 x heads on anddeck shower. berths, & below.

A unique to2015, purchase MBY BOATopportunity OF THE YEAR rareanavailable English double barge. ly & muchwidth sought after.

Discover the essence of relaxed river life with Val Wyatt Marine From our superb family-owned site at Willow Marina we cater for your every boating need. As well as an impressive range of river boat brands – including the handmade Interboat – we offer moorings, maintenance, on-site refreshments and local produce for that all important picnic, and much more.

Visit www.gowiththeflow.life to be in with the chance to win a luxury boat trip along the Thames with picnic hamper

Closing date 31-7-15 Terms and conditions apply

GREAT CHOICE OF BOAT BRANDS • FRIENDLY, EXPERT ADVICE • OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK Val Wyatt Marine, Willow Marina, Willow Lane, Wargrave, Berkshire, RG10 8LH | info@valwyattmarine.co.uk |

01189 403211

www.valwyattmarine.co.uk

PENTON HOOK MARINE SALES www.thamesboatsales.co.uk NEW BOATS

NEW Sealine C330 £227,000 Twin Volvo Penta D3 220hp Diesels. Huge specification

Sealine Open Weekend 11th -12th July See three brand new Sealines, including the C330 which is making its UK Debut

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NEW Sealine F380

£331,000

Single Vetus 140hp Diesel. 6 berths, warm air heating, folding arch

£124,950

2009 Jetten 37AC £149,950 Single Yanmar 75hp Diesel. Great specification

2007 Sealine S29 £76,950 Twin Volvo D3 190hp Diesels. Great Condition

2007 Aquanaut EV1300 £399,000 Single Perkins 148hp Diesel. Spacious with 5 berths in 3 cabins

£124,950 2004 Sealine S42 Twin Volvo Penta KAD300 Diesels. Very clean example

2008/09 Sealine S25

Penton Hook Marine Sales are

NEW Four Winns H180 £26,950 Single Mercruiser 135hp Petrol Bowrider with great social space

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Huge specification. Twin Volvo

Penta D6 330hp diesels

USED BOATS

2007 Westwood A35

distributors for Sealine and Four Winns.

Please call to discuss your next boat

Penton Hook Marine Sales Ltd, Staines Road, Chertsey, Surrey KT16 8PQ

£39,950

Single Volvo Penta D3 190hp. 4 berths. Great example

Distributors for

Tel: 01932 570055 sales@pentonhooksales.co.uk

BROKERAGE BOATS REQUIRED URGENTLY

www.thamesboatsales.co.uk

Click here for full listings at Penton Hook Marine Sales

d re

2009 SealiNe F42/5

2 x Volvo D6-435

Call Swanwick

£199,950 vat paid

2015 Bavaria Sport 360 Coupe Call Swanwick 2 x Volvo D3-220 £218,601 iNC vat

ed uC

W L Ne de o M

W L Ne de o M 2015 Bavaria Sport 300 Call Swanwick 1 x Volvo 380hp Petrol £115,486 iNC vat

2006 pedro mariN 30

Call Swanwick 1 x Perkins Sabre M92B £79,950 vat paid

featured boat 2010 azimut 43 Call Swanwick 2 x Cummins QSB 5.9 2008 riNker 280 1 x Volvo D4-260

£224,950 vat paid

Call Swanwick £54,950 vat paid

Call Swanwick 1 x 5.0L Mercruiser £19,950 vat paid 2000 maxum 2400 SCr

W L Ne de o M

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Over 200 bOats available Online

2010 FairliNe pHaNtom 48 Call Swanwick 2 x Volvo D9-575 £329,950 vat paid

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www.clippermarine.co.uk EMAIL: SALES@CLIPPERMARINE.CO.UK 2004 moNterey 248 lSC Cuddy Call Swanwick

1995 SealiNe 310 amBaSSador Call Swanwick 2 x Volvo AD41 £49,950 tax paid

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1 x Volvo 5.7L Petrol £23,950 vat paid

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1990 SealiNe 365 2 x Volvo KAD44

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Call Swanwick £54,950 tax paid

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2005 FairliNe pHaNtom 40

Call Swanwick 2 x Volvo TAMD63P £177,500 vat paid

2006 SealiNe S34 2 x Volvo KAD32

Call Swanwick £92,500 vat paid

2007 FairliNe targa 52gt Call Swanwick 2 x Volvo D12-715 £249,950 tax paid

2006 Bavaria Sport 42 Call Swanwick 2 x Volvo IPS500 £149,950 vat paid

W L Ne de o M

2013 Bavaria Sport 31 Call Swanwick 2 x Volvo D3-220 £91,500 ex vat

2001 azimut 46 Call Swanwick 2 x Caterpillar 3208 £169,950 tax paid

2003 Bavaria 32 Sport Call Poole 2 x Volvo KAD32 £59,950 tax paid

2004 BeNeteau omBriNe 1001 Call Poole 2 x Volvo KAD32 £49,950 tax paid

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PEDRO BOATS

1996 Fairline Targa2 39, 2 x Volvo 2009 Broom 395, x Volvo Penta Penta KAD42 Diesel, 6 Berths, D6 330hp per230hp engine, Diesel, 6 Undergone full refurbishment over the Berth – Viewing by Appointment last 12£239,950 months. 2014 Survey available, Only BSC expires 2018. £94,950

2010 Princess 42 Flybridge. Immaculate one owner example, twin Volvo D6 diesels. Very well equipped inc two luxury en-suite cabins must be seen. £324,950

1988 Pedro 1 x Volvo Penta 1998 Broom36, 38CL, 2 x Volvo TMD31TAMD41P 4 Cyl 100hp, Diesel, Penta 200hp per spacious engine, 6 berth Includes Dutch steel cruiser with Diesel, Generator, Bowbow thruster, Eberspacher heating Eberspacher heating.and BSC holding tank. expires 2018 £64,950 £122,500

2000 Broom 38. Twin Yanmar 250hp diesels. Lovely Condition, only two owners from new plus she has nearly all available options. £155,000

1982 Broom Crown 2004 Sheerline 950,37, 2 x Volvo 296hp Diesel, good6 1TAMD40A x Nanni 5.280HE 62hpvery Diesel. condition, Capable of cruising Berths, Bow & Stern thruster,the folding sea and inlandBSC waterways. 6 Berths windscreen. expires 2017. in 3 Cabins. £94,950 £59,950

2008 Linssen Grand Sturdy 33.9 AC. One of the best available. Very well equipped & low hours on the 1x Volvo D275hp diesel. Perfect condition. Price reduced to £145,000

2003 Grand Motor Yacht. V. 2007 GrandBanks Banks4247 Heritage well maintained & in excellent condition. Classic Superb restyled model in Up to 7 berths in 3 cabins. Highly excellent C9420hp spec’d withcondition. passarelle,Twin twin Cat 3126, diesels for plus 23+knots. Generator, Cat diesels generator, good Nav bow gear, &Ribsternthrusters, crane & rib. & outboard plusdinghy much more. Full Med Spec. £329,000 tax tax paid.paid Reduced price £485,000

2004 Viking Seamaster 1988 Pedro 36, 1 x VolvoWaterline 30, 1 xTMD31 Nanni 50hp live Penta 4 CylDiesel, 100hp,Ideal Diesel, aboard, 6 6berths 3 cabins. spacious berthinDutch steelOnly cruiser 6 everbow made. Bow Thruster, BSC with thruster, Eberspacher expires 2017 heating and holding tank. £49,950 £64,950

1998 Linssen Dutch Sturdy 380AC. 2005 Beneteau Antares 9.80. FittedNanni with adiesels. single Volvo on shaft Twin Excellent with bowthruster presented in all-rounder in sound condition. excellenta condition. Makes great family cruiser with Reduced to £125,000 all mod cons. £75,000

2007 Grand Heritage 2000 GrandBanks Banks4742 Motor Yacht. Classic. Superb Spacious cruiserrestyled with 6model berthsin in 3 excellent condition. Twin Cat C9 diesels cabins, very well equipped for 23+knots. V. well equippedwith withmany extras & good Twin dinghy 375hp generator, bow &navionics. stern thrusters, crane plus rib, condition. Raymarine navionics. Cat’s. Lovely Galley down layout. Lying Hamble Seriously £260,000 Tax Paid for sale at reduced price - £485,000

1998 Shadow 26 Cabriolet, x 1982 Broom Crown 37, 2 x 1Volvo Beta Marine296hp 43hp, Diesel, Shaft Drive, TAMD40A very Diesel. good 4 Berths inCapable 1 Cabin. of Immaculate condition, cruising the condition, bow thruster, central sea and inland waterways. 6 Berths heating, Boat Safety expires 2018. in 3 Cabins. £34,000 £59,950

2005 Beneteau Antares 9.80. 1987 Stevens 37.5. In very good Twin Nanniwith diesels. Excellent condition just two owners from all-rounder in sound condition. new. 6 berths in 3 cabin areas, Makes a great family cruiser twin 110hp Peugeot diesels. BSC with2017 all mod cons. till £75,000 £67,500

1989 Grand Banks 42 classic. A lovely example, wintered undercover every year and maintained to the highest level. 2 x 135hp diesels, many upgrades & replacements. €210,000 euros inc tax.

2003 Kent A compact, yetVery 1991 Klass28. Mulder 13.50. surprisingly vesselsteelboat spacious & spacious well equipped full of character. Ideal for inland or in lovely condition. 1x Vetus diesel. cruising. clean condition. 7coastal berths. Diesel Good fired C/heating. Single Nanni diesel. Generator. £64,950 £69,950

1988 Grand Classic. 1999 GrandBanks Banks4246EU Truly7 berths, large aft cabinMany with Queen size amazing condition. upgrades. berth & crew single with en-suite, fwd ‘V’ Twin Cat 375hp diesels, bowthruster, twin berth with guest heads & shower. generator, good navionics, Aquadrives, Twin Cat 350hp, gen, good navionics, hydraulic r/arch, rib &great more. full inventory. MajorBimini, refit means €495,000 euros tax paid condition. Reduced to £128,500

1979 Fairline 2002 Sealine Mirage S23, 29, 1 x 2005 Mercruiser 1.7DTI Diesel, 5 1x Mercruiser 4.3120hp, V6 190hp, Petrol, Berths in 2 cabins. Sports Cruiser withExcellent 4 berths,condition. large Perfect for extended Tridata cruising.and Boat cockpit, Raymarine GPS Safetyplotter. expires 2018. chart £19,500 £24,995

1984 Hardy 1984 Hardy25. 25 AA lovely lovelyexample exampleof thisthis popular, versatile boat.boat. Economical of popular, versatile & ideal for river or coastal use.orSingle Economical & ideal for river coastal VolvoSingle 37hp diesel use. Volvo sterndrive. 37hp diesel. £18,250 £18,250

2004 Island Packet 38 Express. A beautiful & stylish 4 berth sports cruiser with twin 370hp Yanmar diesels for 30knots+. Air con,generator, hydraulic passerelle & much more, must be seen. Lying S/coast. Recently reduced £160,000

1982 Relcraft 23,29, 1 x Volvo 1979 Fairline Coral Mirage 120hp, Petrol, 41.7DTI Berths 120hp, in 1 1Penta x 2005 Mercruiser Cabin. Perfect forinday trips on the Diesel, 5 Berths 2 cabins. Perfect Thames. Boatcruising. Safety expires 2018. for extended Boat Safety £11,9952018. expires £19,500

1992 Kempala 38. One owner from new! Lovely condition. Can sleep 8. Twin Perkins 120hp each diesels. Brand new Batteries & a recently fitted F/Panda Generator. £89,950

1994 Grand classic. of 1996 GrandBanks Banks4942 MotorOne Yacht. the bestmodel we’ve in ever seen.with Large spaciousin 3 Iconic v.g.c. 6 berths vessel, sleeps 6/7 in 3 cabins. Full Med cabins, spec’d for Med use spec & very well equipped. 2 x plus all mod cons & many extras. Twin€375,000 Cummins Caterpillar 3208TA diesels. 210hp engines euros inc tax. €225,000 euros inc tax

2005 Haines 320. A truly lovely example offered in great condition. Very well equipped spacious vessel with 6 berths. Single Nanni diesel. Must be seen. £118,000 £92,500

2004 Grand Banks Eastbay 43 SX. Probably the best one in Europe with many factory fitted options. Twin Cummins 450hp diesels, bowthruster, generator, Raymarine navionics, 4 luxury berths, 2 heads, galley down layout. Lying S/coast. Now reduced to just £265,000.

1975 Project 31. A 30 much loved & well 1974 Seamaster Classic, cared for example excellent all-round spacious aft-cabinincruiser. Well condition. Replacement S/S maintained, will sleep 4lower in two screensAll allowing access to the upper cabins. mod cons & powered by reaches of the Thames. twin diesels. £15,950. £23,995

1999 Grand In truly 1991 GrandBanks Banks46EU. 42 Classic. amazing condition. Kept in a wet boathouse. Popular 6 berth model with manyTwin recent Many valuable options & upgrades. upgrades. Twin diesels, generator, Rib & Cat 3208 375hp diesels plus bowthruster, generator, good navionics, outboard, passerelle & allAquadrives, mod cons.In hydraulic r/arch, full Bimini, Avon rib & much excellent condition for age. more. Stunning vessel. €495,000 euros Great value at £99,000 tax paid

1992 Sealine 270 Senator, 2 x Volvo 2013 Ribeye 740SX Custom, AQ250225hp 4 Cylinder 300hp70 Petrol, 1Penta x Yamaha Outboard, 2 double cabins with en-suite shower hours on engine. Full Electronics and holding tank. Perfect for extended package, Twin Axel Roller Trailer & cruising. Full Cover. £24,950 £46,995

1989 Viking 1 x Allegra, Yamaha 9.9hp 1989 Carver26, 2587 6 berths cabins & 2Outboard, x Mercruiser 5.7inV82 Petrol, cockpit. Folding windscreen, great Spacious cabin and large open condition,Boat BoatSafety SafetyExpires expires 2018, 2017. cockpit, £7,995 New Canopy 2014. £12,950

1972 Seamaster 540, 27, 11xxFord 2007 Quicksilver Mariner Wortham Blake 230hp Petrol, 4 40hp Outboard, berths in cabin, berths, BSSC expires Octfor2018. large open cockpit, ideal day or Ideal Thames cruising. fishingfortrips. £7,950 £7,950

Tel: 01628 569888 email:harleyford@boatshowrooms.com

Tel: 01932 260261

email:shepperton@boatshowrooms.com

1991 Grand Sedan. A much1997 GrandBanks Banks3649 Motor loved vessel sleeping in 2 cabin&areas. Yacht Possibly the 5youngest most Twin Ford49 Sabre bowthruster, versatile MYdiesels in the+world for sale generator, new heating, full Bimini top, today. Fantastic spec, the best & dinghy,FSH. Sound all-round condition for latest options. Greatlittle condition its age.engine Surprisingly spacious ship. Keen price £295,000 tax paid £147,500 taxatpaid 1997 Grand Motor Yacht. 1991 GrandBanks Banks4936 Europa. Possibly the youngest & most versatile 49 Powered by twin MY in the world for Yanmar sale today300hp Fantastic diesels. Manytheupgrades fitted in specification, best & latest engine options. Never used in thecruiser Med sowith Gel all 2013/14. An excellent coat and deck / underwater fittings mod cons. In great condition. in great condition. Keenly priced Just £109,000 to sell at £295,000 tax paid.

Tel: 02380 458990 email:hamble@boatshowrooms.com

www.boatshowrooms.com/used-boats

id ns

2011 Beneteau Antares 30 Fly

1999 Sealine S28 (choice of 3) Petrols & Diesels from - £39,950 Contact Windsor Racecourse

2x Cummins Diesels - £59,950 Contact Windsor Racecourse

1985 Fairline Mirage (Soft top)

2012 Seamaster by Viking

NEW Viking 215 (Available July)

Single Volvo D6 340hp - £99,950 Contact Windsor Racecourse

2x Volvo AQAD30 Diesels - £29,950 Contact Thames & Kennet

Single 2013 Honda 40 - £49,950 Contact Thames & Kennet

2007 Primatist Abate G41

2002 Regal commodore 4260

Single Honda 20hp Outboard- £POA Contact Thames & Kennet

1979 Seamaster 30

2x Volvo Penta D6 Diesels - £79,000 Contact Walton

2x Volvo TAMD74P EDC Diesels - £89,995 Contact Upton

2006 Bayliner 305

2009 Atomix 750

2x Thorneycroft Diesels - £24,950 Contact Walton

Single 5.0 Volvo Petrol - £16,950 Contact Walton

2012 Beneteau Antares 680

2002 Bayliner 245SB

Single Yamaha F30 Petrol outboard- £25,00 Contact Upton

Single Mercruiser 5.0 Petrol - £22,995 Contact Upton

Extensive Selection of New & Pre Owned Boats for Sale

More Locations, More Choice!

Brokerage Services

Optimised Boat Finder Search Facility

Quality Photographs & Descriptions

Seven Superior Marinas Throughout the UK

2013 Bavaria 34HT

2x Volvo Penta D4 Diesels - £129,950 Contact Windsor Racecourse

1987 Nimbus 2600

Single Volvo TMD31 Diesel - £20,000 Contact Thames & Kennet

2006 Rinker Vista Vee

Single Mercruiser 5.0 Petrol - £29,950 Contact Walton

1978 RLM/Sheerline 32

2x Volvo Penta MD21 Diesels - £18,750 Contact Upton

We have over 140 boats to choose from at seven diﬀerent locations

SCAN HERE to view our boats for sale

www.tingdene.net Pyrford Marina

Tel (01932) 343 275 River Wey, Surrey

Thames & Kennet Marina

Tel (01189) 477 770

River Thames, Caversham

Brundall Bay Marina

Tel (01603) 717 804 Norfolk Broads

Walton Marina

Racecourse Marina, Windsor

Walton on Thames

River Thames, Windsor

Tel (01932) 221 689

Tel (01753) 851 717

Upton Marina

Tel (01684) 593 111 Upton upon Severn

Stourport Marina

Tel (01299) 827 082 Stourport on Severn

Classified

Plymouth Pilot 23 hull

Motorboat Owner Affordable practical boating

1997 Beaves Marine 22

1973 Freeman 23

£9,995

£6,995

07781 132197 email address

01753 851717 neil@tingdene.net

1971 Moonraker 36

28ft Parkstone Sea King

1988 Fairline Carrera

£28,995

£19,995

£13,995

‘Honey Chile III’ as featured in November 13 issue of Motorboat Owner. Powered by a single 55hp Iveco diesel engine. Four berth wheelhouse cruiser

£18,500 ex VAT

Twin Perkins 6354 175hp turbo diesel engines. 6 berths, 2 toilets & showers. Recently re-upholstered. Davits, electric winch, radar, chartplotter. Well maintained. 07919 882255 Email address

Honda 30hp 4-stroke outboard. Four berth cruiser with two seperate sleeping areas. Ideal starter boat. 3-burner hob, porta potti.

Twin 42hp OM 636 Mercedes diesels. Four berths. Eberspacher diesel heating, two-burner hob/ grill and built-in fridge. Excellent cruiser.

01702 461481/ 07984 963315 Email address

Single Watermota Sea Wolf engine. Four berths with spacious, open-plan interior and a well equipped galley. Well maintained 01189 403211 info@valwyattmarine.co.uk

Twin Volvo AQ171 167hp petrols. Cruising speed 22 knots. Well presented example. Reupholstered cockpit. Lying Poole. 01202 916424 sales@clippermarine.co.uk

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Owners Directory i Arvor Boat Owners Club

Electric Boat Association

www.arvorboatowners.co.uk

www.electric-boat-association.org.uk

Atlanta Boat Owners

Elysian Boat Owners

www.atlantaboats.co.uk

www.elysianboats.co.uk

Bavaria Owners’ Association

Fairey Owners Club

www.bavariaowners.co.uk

www.faireyownersclub.co.uk

Bayliner Owners Club

Fairline Owners Club

Beneteau Owners’ Association

Fjord Club

www.baylinerownersclub.org

www.fairlineownersclub.com

www.beneteau-owners-association.org.uk

www.fjordclub.com

Broom Owners Club

Fletcher Owners Club

www.broomowners.com

Chaparral Boat Owners Forum

forum.chaparralboats.com

Classic Motor Boat Association www.cmba-uk.com

Classic Offshore Powerboat Club www.classicoffshore.com

Cleopatra Owners Club mycleopatra.ning.com

fletcher-boats.co.uk/your-fletcher/owners-club

Freeman Cruisers Forum freemanboats.forumer.com

Freeman Owners Club

www.freemancruisers.com

Freeman Cruisers freeman-cruisers.forumotion.co.uk

Haines Owners Club www.hainesmarine.co.uk/owners.php

Coronet Cruisers

Hampton Safari Boat Club

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

hamptonsafaribc.webplus.net

Cranchi Owners Club & Forum

Hardy Owners Club

cranchiownersclub.com

Dawncraft Owners Club & Forum www.dawncraftowners.com

www.hardy-owner.org.uk

Mariah Owners Club www.mariahownersclub.com

July 2015

Maxum Owners Club

Sealine Forum

www.maxumownersclub.com

www.sealineforum.co.uk

Microplus Boats

Sealine Owners Club

www.microplus.dk

www.sealineowners.com

Monterey Fourm

Seamaster Club

forums.montereyboats.com

www.seamasterclub.co.uk

Moonraker Owner’s Club

Seaward Owners Club

www.moonraker.dk/eng_index.htm

Nauticus www.nauticus.co.uk

Nelson Boat Owners Club

www.nelsonboatownersclub.co.uk

Nimbus Owners Club UK www.nimbusowners.co.uk

Norman Appreciation Society www.normanboats.co.uk

Princess Owners Club princessownersclub.com

www.seawardboat.com/club.html

Shetland Owners Association www.shetlandowners.co.uk/shetland/

Star Craft Owners Club www.bates-starcraft.co.uk

Sunseeker Owners Club sunseekerownersclub.com

Viking Owners Club

www.vikingowners.org.uk

Warrior Boats Owners Club

www.warriorboatsownersclub.co.uk

Regal Owners Forum www.regalownersforum.com

Relcraft Boaters Group www.relcraftboatersgroup.co.uk

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

Sea Ray Owners Club

www.clubsearay.com

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Burnham rainbow

Stormclouds and a rainbow at Burnham YH SPOTTED! by Neale Byart

Superb sunrise

A 4am departure from Cherbourg to Ouistreham SPOTTED! by Richard Poat

‘Matchless’ Swordsman sisters A Swordsman 30 and 40 tied up in Cowes SPOTTED! by Eric Keating

Classic Shetland

A 1970’s Shetland 640 on the River Itchen SPOTTED! by David Skinner 90

July 2015

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