FREE DIGITAL MAGAZINE
Motorboat JUNE 2014
Owner Affordable practical boating
BOAT TEST
Beneteau Flyer 6 PRACTICAL
Princess 435 l Cherbourg l Revive your tender
Antifouling Guide
Welcome to the June issue.
From the Editor
This June marks the 70th anniversary of the largest waterborne invasion in history. It’s not a time to celebrate, but rather a time to remember those brave men, many of them in their teens and early 20’s, who landed on a foreign beach straight into an unimaginable scene. Hollywood may have helped us understand what it must have been like, but it is images like the one
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2 October 2013
June 2014
grandfathers were faced with. We’ll be there next month with our inaugural Cruise in Company and I will ensure that I find time in our itinerary to pay my respects to those that fought and paid the ultimate price. This month we have a comprehensive feature on Cherbourg, the perfect start point for a Normandy cruise of your own, and one with its own story of war to tell. It may be seen as just a convenient cross Channel port, but Cherbourg has much to offer as a destination in its own right. I have been visiting for years, and still discover hidden secrets on every trip. While you are onboard your boat this summer, we hope the weather holds good for you and you enjoy a peaceful landing of your own, wherever you choose to visit.
welcome aboard
©US National Achives & records Administration
above, that show real soldiers disembarking a landing craft and heading into the unknown, that really brings home the reality of their situation. 2014 is a great year to explore the Normandy coast, as there will be lots of opportunities to visit the sites, museums, beaches and cemeteries that tell the story from both sides of the conflict, and take some time to reflect on the events that our fathers, grandfathers or even great
This year marks the 70th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. This is one of many photographs shown in the Cité de la Mer exhibition ‘Cherbourg...and freedom came from the Sea’
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
3
enjoy the
feel the
LIGHT
SPACE VERSATILITY
discover the
F380
F450
S380
S450
Contact your local dealer Southern & Eastern England Penton Hook Marine Sales Ltd T: 01932 570055 E: chris@pentonhooksales.co.uk W: www.thamesboatsales.co.uk
www.sealine.com
North of England, Scotland & Wales Shepherds Marine Ltd T: 01539 446004 E: sales@shepherdsmarine.co.uk W: www.shepherdsmarine.co.uk
Mainland Spain Sealine Costa Blanca T: +34 965 708 542 E: mark@sealinecostablanca.com W: www.sealinecostablanca.com
CONTENTS JUNE 2014
5
6
Protect
ive clot hing
When wo antifoul, rking with old safety it is importan and new measu t to tak res essent ial, and . Safety gog e some gle a if you are san dust mask is s are din clothe s or ove g old antifo a must ralls are ul. will getves, If you have sterndri pai useful Old up the waterline. , as you carefubordernt on them Mask 25mm a up the mask l you edge You can now smooth kee theavoidare, and no matter how Ensure you rub the er. a all around themp to hat so pai firmly wil old paint with sandpap will kee l help when nt out of you next to the paint a corrosion issues p your doesn’t r hai Use it wet and wear and I alw paint hands that the new paint using copper based mostly r. Gloves facemask and goggles. hull pai ays wear a pai paint fre creep up underneath dust nti e After, wash away the 9 kneeling ng inevita r of knee pad s, as on uneve bly leads 8 n surfac to much 7 es. When buying waterlin masking wide stu e, it is best to tape for the get the of weeke paint it ff, as you’ll be 50mm and hav les nd s, I wo a good from wh e to rem s likely to ove uld sug quality drives ere it should ove antifoul r it will low adh gest buying be , you’ll, it is n’t Before need som be. If you once the easier to rem esion variety tapepainting where the old for atobor have the paint as ove mix e 25m else that Any areas imperat der Avoid job is done. shieldive Mask up anything , to mechanaro buying icalund the m wide paint has come away properly id the really into con. A avo bare you don’t want to paint, do transom copper che tact witand will completely, leaving not device tape as ap the tapis easier, h the alu paint com be to including any anodes need will e you job h is ing gelcoat, mi goi thoroug a more may fin coat the same day ng to be on nium. If being removed. Painted d that painted with a primer and , che the fin work not off in e. If the aper stu paint anodes will tap ff is gen creep un will for12 a longer e is going erally to be 11 period it no ma der , say ove applied 10 r a cou how we tter ple ll applied it is .
4
Q&A page 20 TESTED page 68
Tape ty p
es
page 8 Show Report Horning Boat Show page 34 Bargain Hunt Beaulieu Boat Jumble
PRAC
PRACTICAL
NEWS page 6 INBOX page 10 CUTTING EDGE page 18
TICAL
REGULARS
dry, you Once any primer is coat can start with the first it of antifoul. Don’t spread the right too thin; you need coats thickness over two 16
roller Any areas where the touched can’t reach can be Clean in with a paint brush. 14with any over painting white spirit or thinners
Amou nt of pa int
Each ma nufactur help Check the tin for over er will hav apply you cal coating times, and a 10 metre culate the qua e a chart on the a second coat oncethe correc boat will req ntity of paint their website uir t to rigelapsed ht am thickness of e around five needed. Typ minimum time has ically litr finished ount, and to paint. It is impor es to achieve use it all, coa June 2014t is tant out of crucia it. l to get as the thickn to buy the ting the ess best per of the forma nce June
p12
21 PRACTICAL
Antifouling Guide - Our tips and advice
p40
page 54 Second Look 1997 Shetland 27 PRACTICAL
2014
Inflatable Revival
p62 p24
CHERBOURG
Destination Guide
70 Beneteau Flyer 6
BOAT TEST
Princess 435
CLASSIC CRUISER GUIDE Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
5
NEWS Thames Traditional Boat Rally cancelled
The Thames Traditional Boat Rally has been cancelled due to poor ground conditions. The Rally Committee decided to cancel following a site inspection at Fawley Meadow, Henley. The severe floods have left the upper meadow like a lake and the lower meadow too soft to bear the impact of the marquees, equipment and vehicles needed. The rally (19th/20th July) was due to celebrate its 36th year and a fly past had been scheduled to commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day. Rally Chairman Tony Goodhead says the early cancellation was “to minimise any disruption or financial implications to all the entrants. We believe it is better to cancel the event now rather than risk waiting until much nearer the time.” He adds “Let us hope that 2015 brings a change in fortune.”
DIARY DATES British Motor Yacht Show 16th, 17th & 18th May Try a boat Dartmouth 24th & 25th May All Wales Boat Show 30th May-1st June Back to Boating Day at Burton Waters 31st May Beale Park Boat Show 6th, 7th & 8th June East Anglian Boat Show 21st & 22nd June Southampton Boat Show 12th-21st September
Extension plan for Cherbourg’s Port Chantereyne
Plans are underway to extend Cherbourg’s marina, Port Chantereyne, creating up to 500 new berths on the west side of the marina and more storage ashore for 200 boats. The new pontoon berths will cater for larger visiting vessels as well as residential boats. The development includes the construction of another breakwater in the Petite Rade, and if plans go ahead, work is expected to start in 2016.
Click any of the above for more info
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June 2014
If you have news from your region, email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
DCNS
Renewable energy from Alderney Race
Tidal technology company OpenHydro and Alderney Renewable Energy (ARE) are planning a 300MW tidal array in Channel Island waters. The tidal currents around Alderney are some of the strongest in the world. The tidal array is expected to consist of 150 turbines, with each 2.0MW turbine producing enough power for over 150,000 homes. Before consent is given, the two companies will be working closely with The States of Alderney, local communities and stakeholders to complete the required surveys and environmental impact assessments prior to making an application. The tidal stream turbines (pictured) will be manufactured in Cherbourg. We will keep you informed on how these plans might impact on boating in the area.
Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
7
NEWS
Horning Boat Show
S
ome 7,000 visitors were recorded as visting this years Horning Boat Show. The one-day event, now in its second year was held in the pretty waterside Norfolk village on Saturday 4th May. Despite a chilly spring day the visitors came in droves to look at the new and used boats on display on the waterfront, and browse the marine stalls that occupied the Village Green and recreational ground. Among the companies at the show with boats on display were locals Norfolk Yacht Agency, Haines Marine, Boatshed Norfolk
and Norfolk Boat Sales. Other companies had come from further afield. David Bushnell of Bushnells Marine, based at Wargrave on the River Thames had brought along two of his Antaris Connery open boats, one of which he sold and delivered that very day to one delighted customer. On the day, entertainment was provided by live bands, choirs, morris dancers, and even belly dancers. A variety of food was on offer, our favourites, the hog roast and delicious sweet (and naughty) crepes. The
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June 2014
If you have news from your region, email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
show had a very warm, friendly feel about it, and by early afternoon the waterfront and Swan Green areas were absolutely buzzing. The Motorboat Owner stand was situated in the Main Exhibition area. Thank you to all the readers who stopped by to say hello, it was great to meet you. The boat show is a charity event organised and run by local villagers. We are told that the day raised in the region of £10,000, money that will be used in local projects. Visitors and exhibitors are keen to see the Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
show return for a third year, and we shall keep you informed of any news. www.horningboatshow.com
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INBOX
@
STAR LETTER
Flare disposal
Reading about the new LED Flares in the April issue, prompted me to dispose of some out of date flares that I had in my garage. Last year, after 10 years in the Solent, I returned my boat to the upper Thames and, not wishing to make a round trip of almost 200 miles to a Coastguard Station to hand them in, I searched the internet to find an alternative disposal point. The RYA website suggested my local council who, when I telephoned, put me through to the local refuse tip. After some deliberation all they could offer was to put them in a bucket of water. They suggested I contact Grundons (the waste people) as they have a hazardous waste licence, but even they were not sure and wanted pictures of them first. Next I rang the Fire Brigade, who declined and suggested the local council again. As a last resort, I walked into my local Police Station (not carrying the flares, I hasten to add), to enquire if they were able to accept them and, after a few minutes of discussion between themselves, told me to ring the non-emergency number 101, and someone would come and collect them. Was this a matter of the buck being passed again, I wondered? But no it wasn’t, as within 2 hours of my phone call, a police car arrived at my home to collect them for disposal. It was suggested at the police station that they could be considered ‘firearms’ and they did not want them to get into the wrong hands. Problem sorted; well done the Metropolitan Police. Rob Young The Editor replies: Disposing of out of date flares can be problematic. The official line is that you should take them to one of 18 licenced coastguard sites around the UK, but that often involves a lengthy journey. It’s great to hear that you have found a responsible way of getting rid of yours without too much hassle.
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June 2014
email:
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Little Ship Club
The Little Ship Club predates Dunkirk by 14 years, but we are proud that our own ‘Little Ships’ sobriquet was adopted to describe the evacuation and that several of our members took part on their own motor boats. We are today a modern cruising yacht club, while living up to our traditions, with wide-ranging events as well as excellent facilities at our London clubhouse. We would like to expand our motor boat section and would like to welcome motor boat owners to join our club. For membership information visit our website www.littleshipclub.co.uk Michael Forbes-Smith, Vice Commodore The Editor replies: Thank you for your letter and we wish you all the best with the club.
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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PRACTICAL
HOW TO
Antifouling Guide
YOU WILL NEED
P ainting the bottom of your boat with
antifouling is an annual job that no boat owner, trailboaters aside, can avoid. It’s not the most enjoyable aspect of boat ownership, but it is a relatively simple job and one that usually, at least, marks the start of a new boating season. So does the act of painting really need a step-by-step feature? It is, after all, just painting. For many of us the answer is probably no, but for a newcomer, who perhaps has never had to antifoul a boat before, the process may seem a
TOOLS • Paint scraper • Screwdriver to open paint tin • Paint mixer or stirring stick • Paint tray • Paint roller • Brushes
ooooo DIFFICULTY RATING
little daunting. Fear not, our step by step guide will provide the newcomer with everything they need know to undertake their first antifoul, and hopefully there be will be one or two tips for the old hands as well.
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June 2014
Choosing your paint The market is full of different brands of antifoul paint, and each brand often has many different products. Choosing the right one can be a bit of a minefield. One good tip is to ask other boaters in your marina or club what they are using, and how they have found it. If they have been in the area for a few years, the chances are they will recommend a good paint based on their own trial and error. One thing to note though is that not all paints are suitable for fast boats. Some soft antifoul will wear away too quickly if used on a motorboat, so check the specifications, which often mentions a maximum speed the paint is suitable for. If you are on a drying mooring, check also that the paint is recommended for this
kind of use. Cost is another factor, but this should only be considered after performance and suitability. It could be a false economy buying the cheapest paint if it simply doesn’t work well for your area or your type of boating. I chose Seajet 031 Samurai, as it is a paint I have used before and been pleased with the results. The fact that it is also Seajet’s budget paint at around £50 for 2.5 litres is an added bonus.
Sterngear and other underwater fixtures Sterndrives, being aluminium, cannot be coated with any copper based paint. This means that many hull paints are unsuitable for drives. Some paints, such as Seajet’s 034 Emperor, can be used on both the hull and drives, but check thoroughly before application as a copper based paint on an aluminium drive will encourage galvanic corrosion of the drive. P brackets and rudders can usually be painted with the same paint as the hull, as being made of bronze, a more noble metal, the copper content won’t cause them any corrosion issues. Stainless steel shafts are usually left unpainted and props
are difficult to keep coated so these can be cleaned and polished, or, if you want to stop fouling, try one of the specialist sterngear products. Trim tabs can be painted with hull paint, as can the external flanges of any seacock. Avoid painting the moving part of your speed log as it will affect its calibration, but the plastic flange can be painted as can any other plastic through hull fittings below the waterline. Bow and stern thrusters can be painted with the same hull paint, but on thrusters, as with all underwater fittings, ensure you don’t paint over the anode.
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
13
PRACTICAL
Protective clothing When working with old and new antifoul, it is important to take some safety measures. Safety goggles are essential, and a dust mask is a must if you are sanding old antifoul. Old clothes or overalls are useful, as you will get paint on them no matter how careful you are, and a hat will help keep the paint out of your hair. Gloves will keep your hands mostly paint free
Tape types
When buying masking tape for the waterline, it is best to get the 50mm wide stuff, as you’ll be less likely to over paint it and have to remove antifoul from where it shouldn’t be. If you have drives, you’ll need some 25mm wide tape for a border around the transom shield, to avoid the copper paint coming into contact with the aluminium. If the tape is going to be on and off in the same day, cheaper stuff is generally fine. If the tape is going to be applied for a longer period, say over a couple
and I always wear a pair of knee pads, as hull painting inevitably leads to much kneeling on uneven surfaces.
of weekends, I would suggest buying a good quality low adhesion variety as it will be easier to remove once the job is done. Avoid buying really cheap tape as you may find that the paint will creep under it no matter how well it is applied.
Amount of paint Each manufacturer will have a chart on their website to help you calculate the quantity of paint needed. Typically a 10 metre boat will require around five litres to achieve the correct thickness of paint. It is important to buy the right amount, and to use it all, as the thickness of the finished coat is crucial to getting the best performance out of it. 14
June 2014
New hulls
If a hull has never been antifouled you will firstly need to find the waterline. Some manufacturers mark the hull or, on a small boat, you could simply launch it and mark the waterline with a marker pen. The area to be painted then needs to be sanded with a coarse paper to provide a key for the paint. Once sanded the hull should be cleaned of all dust and residue, before applying a primer coat, followed by two coats of antifoul paint.
Compatability
Most antifoul paints use copper and biocides, and generally these types can be painted on top of each other even if they were produced by different manufacturers. The supplier of your new paint should have a compatibility chart on their website to check that the new paint can be applied directly on top of last years antifoul. If you don’t know what was on the boat before, or find that
Launch times
Once the hull is painted the clock is ticking for the boat to be launched. Antifoul needs immersing in water within a certain period, which is often around two months but check with your paint supplier, otherwise its effectiveness diminishes.
the new and old paints are incompatible, you will need to apply a barrier coat before painting the hull. This would usually be in the form of a primer, and should be available from the supplier of your antifoul. Some paints use Teflon, or other low friction technology, which are difficult to over coat with traditional antifoul or primers. These may need to be stripped completely before painting.
HOW TO IN 15 STEPS
1
When arranging a lift, try to book a time when the temperature is likely to be above 5°C. This is usually the minimum required
2
Get the boat pressure washed as soon as it is lifted. This should get rid of most of the slime and accumulated fouling
3
Use a scraper to remove any remaining fouling or areas of badly flaking old paint. Goggles are essential for this task
Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
15
PRACTICAL
4
You can now smooth the old paint with sandpaper. Use it wet and wear a facemask and goggles. After, wash away the dust 7
5
Mask up the waterline. Ensure you rub the edge next to the paint firmly so that the new paint doesn’t creep up underneath 8
6
If you have sterndrives, mask up a 25mm border all around them to avoid corrosion issues when using copper based paint 9
Mask up anything else that you don’t want to paint, including any anodes not being removed. Painted anodes will not work
Any areas where the old paint has come away completely, leaving bare gelcoat, will need to be painted with a primer coat
Before painting, it is imperative to mix the paint properly. A mechanical device is easier, and will do a more thorough job
10
11
12
Once any primer is dry, you can start with the first coat of antifoul. Don’t spread it too thin; you need the right thickness over two coats
Any areas where the roller can’t reach can be touched in with a paint brush. Clean any over painting with white spirit or thinners
Check the tin for over coating times, and apply a second coat once the minimum time has elapsed
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June 2014
13
14
15
If you have paint left over, use it up by applying a third coat on high wear areas like the bow, the waterline, the keel and the chines
Before the last coat fully dries, carefully remove the masking tape. This should leave a nice crisp edge
If you can’t get to the areas where the chocks are, give them a quick coat of paint once the boat is lifted before being re-launched
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CONSUMABLES • • • • • •
Primer Antifoul paint Coarse sandpaper Masking tape White spirit or thinners Cleaning cloths
TIME TAKEN After the boat has been pressure washed and dried you should be able to antifoul a boat with two coats in a single day. If the hull needs lots of preparation and a full primer coat it may take an extra day.
COST £ The cost will vary depending upon paint chosen and size of boat, but on this 28 footer we used two 2.5 litre tins of Seajet 031 Samurai making the total cost £125, including consumables.
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
17
CUTTING Mando Footloose
The Mando Footloose is a crazy name for a very cool electric bike. It’s not cheap, but having had a quick go we think it’s worth the money. It is the world’s first chainless electric bike with a top speed of 15mph, a range of up to 25 miles and a 3 hour recharge time. It’s available in the UK through the Beneteau dealer network.
Price £3,500 www.mandofootloose.com/eng
Soulra Rugged Rukus
Described as ‘All-Terrain’ the Rugged Rukus is a solar powered wireless speaker with Bluetooth connectivity. Five hours of sunlight provides a full charge, allowing eight hours of nocturnal sounds. It will even charge your phone via a USB outlet. Water resistant and crash proof, the Rugged Rukus is about the size of an iPad. Price £89 www.amazon.co.uk
APP
International
International, the paint specialist, has launched a new boat painting guide and released it as a free app. Available on iOS and Android it provides a quick reference guide, a quantity estimating tool, health and safety advice, and stockist information. Price FREE www.yachtpaint.com
Standard Horizon GX1100E
Standard Horizon has updated its entry level GX1100E fixed VHF and launched it as the GX1200E. It has programmable soft keys and noise reduction technology. It also features user-activated ATIS and a time out facility to reduce accidental jamming of the channel. It’s compact at H61 x W155 x D170 mm, and is available with an optional external loudspeaker. Price £119.95 www.standardhorizon.co.uk
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June 2014
the latest boating gear and technology Stopgull is now available singularly and in a new transparent version, which should help them blend in a bit better. Designed to be fixed wherever seagulls like to land, Stopgull deters them and therefore keeps the boat free of guano. Price £4.95 www.rochemarine.co.uk /stopgull
APP
Stopgull
Norfolk Broads
If you boat on, or are planning on visiting, the Norfolk Broads, this app will be very useful. It looks like it contains just about everything you could want to make the most of your time on the broads. Price FREE www.thenorfolkbroadsapp.co.uk
Garmin GNX
Garmin has launched a pair of new 100mm2 instruments. The GNX20 and GNX21 NMEA2000 displays can show up to 50 parameters, including depth, speed, wind, temperature etc. The screens can be configured to show single, dual or triple functions, or set up for dedicated graph or gauge mode. Users can choose how quickly data pages cycle, or when data scrolls at set time intervals, allowing hands-free operation.
Foutala Towels These are no ordinary towels. Foutala towels are soft, lightweight, absorbent and quick drying. So versatile they can be worn as scarves or sarongs and come in a variety of striped colours. Price £20 www.foutala.com
Price from £330 www.garmin.com
Dometic Moonlight
Price £560 www.dometic.com
APP
If you are looking for a new cooker, Dometic may have the answer. The new Moonlight Two is a two-burner gas hob with a 28 litre oven and 1.6kW grill. The larger capacity Moonlight Three has three burners and a 30 litre oven. Hob pan holders come as standard.
Met Office
The Met Office has added marine services to its mobile website. You can now get marine forecasts and observations, severe weather warnings and five day forecasts. Price FREE www.metoffice.gov.uk
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
19
Q&A
Your Questions Answered
Underperforming AD31’s
Q The last time we were out in our
twin diesel Fairline Targa 28 with Volvo AD31’s, one of the engines wouldn’t reach full revs. Both engines accelerated correctly up to 3200rpm, but the starboard one refused to go higher. The port continued to reach full rpm, albeit a bit slower than usual. Our top speed was a few knots down too.
A If your top speed is down, this confirms that one engine was not producing full
power, rather than a fault with the tacho. In the majority of cases a problem like this will be down to issues with either fuel or air. My first suggestion would be to change the fuel filters on the affected engine. It may simply be that they are starting to block. If that cures the problem, change the other one as well because it won’t be far behind. Other possibilities could be a blockage of the fuel elsewhere in the system, or a problem in the induction side such as a blocked air filter or faulty turbo. If changing filters doesn’t work, you could try running the engine from a separate fuel source in case the pickup in the tank is clogged.
BMW petrol spares
Q I’ve inherited a sportsboat with a BMW petrol engine. I’ve heard all the horror stories, although I must say mine hasn’t missed a beat yet. The difficulty I am having is finding out part numbers for the spares and then, where I get them from. Can you help?
A The 1980’s marine BMW units have come in for much stick
over the years. Some of it was warranted, some not so much so. The petrol engine was actually not a bad unit, but the drives could prove troublesome. With regards to information, parts and spares, there is only one person to speak to, and that’s Peter Humphries of P H Marine. He was involved with BMW marine units from the inception until their removal from the market and, as far as I know, is the only BMW marine specialist in the UK. If Peter can’t help, I doubt anyone can. www.phmarine.co.uk 20
June 2014
If you have a question, email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Sealine 220 150hp or 205hp?
Q I am looking to buy a Sealine 220 and
am undecided between two boats. One has the 150hp Volvo Penta 250 with single prop drive and the other has the V6 205hp Volvo 431 with duo prop. I actually like the smaller engine boat better, and am thinking it will give me better economy. Is that right?
A Smaller engines don’t always mean better
The Sealine 220, and the previous 218 (above), perform best with a V6 engine
economy. What tends to happen is you just run them harder to achieve the same speed, so economy will be very similar and in some cases, may even be worse. The four-cylinder engine could achieve 25 knots when new, but over the years the performance will have dropped off a little and, together with lots of additional kit added to the boat, may now feel underpowered. This will be especially noticeable if you regularly have more than two people on board. All other things being equal I would definitely go for the V6 powered boat, but condition and price need to be taken into account and the four cylinder boat could still be the right one to buy.
Smallest suitable inflatable
Q I’m looking for the smallest, lightest
tender I can find to carry on my 23ft Sea Ray. Ideally I want to be able to pack it away and store it on board when not in use. It only needs to take two of us and our small dog ashore when we find ourselves on visitor moorings not connected to the shore. The Excel SD160 is 1.6m and weighs 18kg Who makes the smallest suitable dinghy?
A The smallest inflatable that I can think of is the Excel SD160, which as the name
suggest, is 1.6m long. It weighs 18kg. Unfortunately it is only rated for one person so doesn’t meet your requirements. The SD180 on the other hand is rated for two people, is only 20cm longer and at 20kg, is still very light. There is also a lightweight SL200. It’s slightly longer, but weighs just 14kg. www.excel-inflatables.co.uk Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
21
Q&A
Your Questions Answered
Battery choices
Q My freeman has two batteries, one for
engine starting and one for domestic. The domestic one runs flat very quickly so I need to replace it. The one that’s there is called a leisure battery and is 110Ah. I have read about deep cycle batteries being better for domestic use so should I replace it with a deep cycle or just buy another one the same.
A Proper deep cycle batteries are indeed better for domestic use where they can deal with the higher levels of discharge, so in an ideal world I would say yes, buy a deep cycle battery. In reality though a leisure battery offers a good compromise between performance and cost, so unless you really drain your domestic battery on a regular basis I would say buy yourself a leisure version. Battery Megastore is currently selling a 115Ah Alphaline leisure battery for £76.95 delivered. At that price you could replace them twice as often and still be no worse off.
Trailboat security
Q I’ve just bought a small
sportsboat on a trailer but am worried about protecting it from theft. What are the best security products on the market?
A The most important thing is to comply with your insurance company’s
requirements. If you are unsure, ask. Ultimately it is nigh on impossible to protect something 100%, so ensuring that you will be covered in the event of a theft, by taking the correct precautions, is very important. My take on trailer security is to make it as difficult as possible. I have always used two good quality wheel clamps and a hitch lock on my trailer. I also chained it to something else when possible. When choosing security kit, ensure that it has a Sold Secure standard, preferably gold. I use Bulldog products and they do both wheelclamps and tow hitches that have been awarded Sold Secure Gold standards. www.bulldogsecure.com 22
June 2014
If you have a question, email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Can I cut my radar cable?
Q I have a JRC1000 radar and wondered if it is ok to cut the cable and rejoin it. I am going to get my arch modified so that I can lower it for bridges.
A The general consensus seems to be to avoid cutting
and joining radar cables whenever possible. Having said that, many yachts have to do just that so that they can unstep their mast when laying up, so I would suggest that, done properly and carefully, you won’t have a problem. Many people use a chocolate block for this kind of join, but if it were me, I would spend the money on something a bit better. Driplug produce a 19 pin waterproof connector, specially designed for radar cable. It’s not cheap, at over £50, but it will make future removal much simpler and ensure the best performance from the radar. The part number is BD700M. www.driplug.com
Buying from the US
Q I have been browsing online for various boat related purchases and keep stumbling across US websites where the same products appear much cheaper. What are the downsides to buying from the states?
$$$
A Pricewise I’ll admit that kit from America appears very attractive.
Unfortunately it is not that straightforward. Firstly not all US outlets will ship to the UK, or indeed out of their own sales region. The next issue is that the shipping will be quite expensive, and then there is the issue of VAT and import duty. When this is being calculated, the shipping cost is added to the cost of the item so you will be paying 20% of the purchase price plus 20% of the shipping in VAT. Import duty will add around another 5% and then there is usually a charge from the carriage company to collect these additional fees, often around £10 or so. You have also got to remember that warranty issues may mean shipping the item back to the US, and lastly, not all US kit is approved for use in the EU. Sometimes though, it does makes sense, especially for real hardcore yank stuff, such as V8 big and small block parts. Just remember that by the time all the charges have been added you can pretty much convert the dollar price straight into pounds and maybe even add a bit for luck. The bargains aren’t always as good as they seem. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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CLASSIC CRUISERS
a complete guide to the best boats on the used market
Princess 435 W hat aft cabin flybridge boat did you lust over in the late 80’s and early 90’s? We suspect it may well have been the Princess 435. Described by Princess as the ‘ideal grand tourer’ it had performance, ability and cruising liveaboard luxury. It was the last ever production aft cabin boat that Princess built and, arguably it is still one of the most desirable fast flybridge aft cabin cruisers to date. Everything about these boats is chunky and solid, yet the design seems effortless at the same time. With two ensuite double cabins, the 435 is as comfortable as a cottage on the water, yet
they are superb sea boats as well. Ample accomodation for a family, or couple with occasional guests. Twenty five years on, these boats are still going strong and there is very little to find fault with. Prices have come down through the years and they now frequently dip below the £100k mark, with some early examples available for as low as £70,000. That’s right, your dream boat may have just got affordable. Interior The 435 is essentially a 6 berth boat, with the option of a double conversion
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J Blake
Built 1987-1992 Prices then £142,197 (1988) Prices now £70,000-£110,000 Length 44ft 1in / 13.44m Beam 13ft 11in / 4.24m Draught 3ft 5in / 1.04m Air Draught (inc. mast) 13ft 5in / 4.09m Fuel 1364 litres / 300 gallons Water 454 litres / 100 gallons Displacement 10 tons approx
in the saloon. The boat was offered with two layouts from new. The standard arrangement had two ensuite double cabins bow and stern, and a starboard side cabin with twin berths. A lower dinette in place of the side cabin was offered in build, at no extra charge. The dinette was obviously more popular, as it’s very rare that you will find a side cabin version. However, a side cabin may be more suitable to familiy cruising. The forward cabin has a hip height island double, with a generous wardrobe on the starboard side and a door to the adjoining day toilet compartment. Above
the bed is a foredeck escape hatch, this may have a circular vent in or two vents either side of it. Inspect the hatch, vents and upholstery below for evidence of leaks. Either side of the bed are wooden units with drawers and a cupboard. The starboard unit also incorporates a dressing table. Investigate the flat wood surfaces for any staining due to drinks spills or dampness.
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The layout is perfect for two couples, with a double forward cabin
The forward toilet compartment has two entrance doors, a separate shower cubicle and ample storage above and below the sink. Earlier models may well feature the 80’s peach coloured toilet compartment, retro but still perfectly servicable. In the galley the cooking equipment is often dual powered, for example the hob may have two electric rings and two that operate on gas. A dual power oven is on
the opposite bulkhead and below it is a huge fridge with a freezer compartment. Princess really utilised every bit of dead space here, with masses of storage and some very clever and convenient cubby holes. There is everything that you would need for liveaboard cruising, including a double sink. Opposite the galley is most commonly the dinette area. Like its name suggests
Storage paradise. The galley has everything you need for distance cruising 26
June 2014
The popular dinette version gives private dining and an occasional, curtained off double berth
this is the main area for eating and it offers relative privacy. It consists of U-shaped seating with a table that drops down to create a double berth. There are generous storage lockers beneath the seating, plus behind a backrest, there is a huge ‘secret’ locker, big enough to climb into and stand up to reach the back of the helm instruments. There are six stainless steel portholes in the forward section of the boat. These are not known to corrode but do check around them for any rusty marks that might indicate leaks. Two portholes are fitted on the transom and two more on the flybridge. The flybridge portholes, and an opening section of the windscreen provide ventilation in the saloon when it’s raining without letting water in. Not something all aft cabin flybridge boats offer. The forward guest/day toilet compartment The saloon forms the main entertaining has a seperate shower cubicle Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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The saloon has a home-from-home feel. It’s impressively light, functional and very comfortable
area, and will not fail to impress. It’s a huge space with a large U-shaped settee that is ample for six people, maybe more. There is a useful storage drawer in the centre of the seating. On the port side is a large storage unit, which is essentially a cocktail bar. Inside is yet more storage, a drinks cabinet, a fridge and a small,
cleverly concealed sink. The inside helm position is raised with a double helm seat and offers good visibility forward. Underneath the helm seat is a large locker and to the left of the helm is a deep chart table. The full width aft cabin is spectacular. Comfortable is an understatement. The spacious aft cabin has masses of storage
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A coffee table in the saloon opens and extends
Luxurious and stately is how we would describe it. It has a large island double berth, a toilet compartment with a separate shower cubicle, two dressing tables and everywhere you look there is storage, in the form of drawers, overhead lockers and cupboards. Owners admit there are cupboards that they don’t even use or know what’s in them. This is not a boat that you need to live out of a bag on. This cabin even has its own settee and yes, this offers yet more storage too. The interior is usually finished with teak faced plywood. While this is fairly easy to maintain with a wax polish, you might find areas of wear on wooden grab rails by the helm/galley steps and entrance steps. While in the saloon, inspect the woodwork around the patio door. With a slanted door like on the 435 it is difficult to keep the rain and the weather out, and this can cause damage. Also, fitting a front screen and patio door cover, will not only help protect the wood from the sun, it’s also a good security measure. On Deck The Princess 435 boasts wide one-level side decks, which meet a large and slightly raised aft deck. Thus is accessed by one step on either side. You could say it is comparable to the iconic Fairline Turbo 36 in many ways, but boarding the 435 is actually easier. It has a useful centre gate, often with a slot in boarding ladder. GRP dodgers enclose the
1992 £99,500 Twin Volvo TAMD 61A 306hp Princess Motor Yacht Sales 01489 557744 www.princess.co.uk
1989 £99,000 Twin Volvo TAMD 71 380hp Cardiff Bay Boat Sales 02920 707331 www.cardiffbayboatsales.co.uk
1989 £69,950 Twin Volvo TAMD 61A 306hp Norfolk Yacht Agency 01603 713434 www.nya.co.uk
Everything falls to hand at the inside helm position
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The 435 has a spacious aft deck and ladder-free access to the flybridge
aft deck, and two L shapes storage units provide some seating. The corner sections of these units lift to give access to the aft cleats underneath. This can be quite fiddly when preparing or tying off lines, but you may find that these sections have been removed to make access a bit easier. The striking white or grey fibreglass
Modular lockers provide seating and storage on the aft deck. The aft cleats are underneath
horizontal stripes that cover the aft cabin side windows, are a particular bugbear to owners. They make it very awkward to clean the windows and clear out the seals of growth and grime. There is some access to these from inside, but owners tell us that they have tried a whole manner of brushes to get at the grime. (If any 435 owners have found a good solution to this problem, please do let us know). These stripes are also prone to damage, so it is worth checking their condition. Have a good look around the hull and below the gunnel for any marks and scratches, also along the metal part of the rubbing strake, as this can corrode. Inspect around the stanchions for stress cracking to the fibreglass at the bases, and check the wire guard rails for corrosion. The GRP bathing platform is usually fitted with teak panels. However, earlier versions may have a more traditional stainless steel framework with wooden slats. A ladder with teak steps provides acess from aft deck to bathing platform. Check the condition of wood on the bathing platform and ladder, also inspect the corners for impact damage.
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Left, the striped aft windows are difficult to clean. Right, access aboard is easy
Check the exterior window frames for any white deposits or lifting of the outer coating, as these could indicate corrosion of the aluminium beneath.
lifting clear perspex cover that protects the helm dials and equipment. Also check that the flybridge cover is in good condition and is doing its job, as this could be expensive to replace. Flybridge If you are planning to use the boat at Just two large moulded steps from the aft sea you may have to update the navigation deck takes you up to the flybridge. This equipment. The boat would probably have consists of a double reversible helm seat, been fitted with a Cetrek autopilot and a with a wet storage locker underneath and Raytheon Radar system with a screen at L-shaped seating aft. The flybridge is quite the lower helm. If you are buying this boat sheltered, unlike other boats of this kind, for inland exploration, you will need to you sit in it rather than on it. Inspect the consider having the radar arch modified, dashboard dials and vinyl seating for signs so it hinges. The next highest point on the of water or sun damage. There is usually a boat may well be the top of the throttles. Norfolk Yacht Agency
Check the flybridge vinyl upholstery for sun and water damage. Replacement needn’t be expensive Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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most mooring situations. A bow thruster is always a worthy addition and we have also seen examples fitted with a stern thruster.
On a sea trial check that the bowthruster works
Hull and Handling The 435 was designed by Bernard Olesinski, and this boat epitomises the sturdy Princess build quality. With a displacement of 10 tonnes plus the weight of 300 gallons of fuel and 100 gallons of water, the 435 is a heavy but very capable seaboat. The hull, with its deep V entry will cut through a choppy head sea, and it copes very well in a following sea too. The 435’s design is far removed from the slim line superstructure of its aft cabin flybridge predecessor, the 414. Its lines are well proportioned, it’s beamier, chunkier and the centre of gravity feels lower. Close quarters handling is very typical of a heavy aft cabin cruiser. In settled conditions edging the throttles in and out of gear in tick over will be enough for
Engines Most 435’s are fitted with twin Volvo TAMD61 306hp diesels, as this was the base boat option throughout the build. In 1988 a boat fitted with twin 306hp would have cost £142,197. By 1989 the price of the base boat had increased to £168,532, and Princess added the option of twin TAMD71A 357hp. By 1990 twin 380hp Volvo TAMD71B’s were being offered. It was these that suited the boat best, and which nowadays are the most sought after on the used market. Today, twin 380’s should give a comfortable cruising speed of around 22 knots and a top speed in the region of 28 knots. Running a heavy twin shaftdrive boat at sea will make a bit of a dent in your wallet. You should expect to use around a gallon per mile. The 435 has also been very well received inland, where fuel running costs are relatively low and where it has attracted buyers who want a comfortable and capable sea boat for those occasional sea and estuary forays. Checking strainers via the hatch means squeezing between the engines.
???????????????????????????????????????????????????? ?????????????? 32
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These boats are circa 25 years old now, so smoke on start up should be expected. Evidence of good engine maintenance, by way of some service history is useful, but looking in the bilges is always a good place to start. A recent engine service is a good indication of how a current owner has looked after them. Servicing on a boat this size is not going to be cheap, but you can cut down the costs by doing much of the work yourself. These old technology engines are very easy to work on. Engine access is not brilliant, with these boats normally being fitted with just a small hatch in the saloon floor. There is no access via the galley steps, so it’s this small hatch that gives you limited day-today access for engine checks. The space is adequate for getting between the engines and to the dipsticks, but getting to raw water strainers and belts at the front of the engines is quite a squeeze with the
380’s, particularly if there is a generator fitted, which is usually located beneath the galley steps. Removing furniture and pulling up the floor panels for servicing is essential. While in the engine room you should also check the condition of the fuel tanks, as they have been known to suffer from corrosion, and changing them is a complex operation. Conclusion Buyers should be aware of the costs of running an older, large twin shaft drive boat at sea, and with any boat, maintenance is key. If you fancy heading out for the horizon, the 435 offers the ultimate in liveaboard luxury. It offers phenominal amounts of storage, comfort and agility at sea. It’s certainly on our ‘buy before we die’ list.
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 41 1977-1982
Princess 45 1982-1991
Prices £35,000-£42,000
Prices £65,000-£100,000
Length 41ft 2in Beam: 13ft 0in Princess’ first aft cabin from the 70’s and early 80’s still offers a lot of boat for the money. Buy one (pictured) 1978 £34,500 www.boatshed.com
Length 47ft 2in Beam 14ft 1in For those who want to sit out in a sheltered aft cockpit, the flybridge 45 fits the bill. Buy one (pictured) 1990 £89,950 www.red-ensign.com
Princess 414 1981-1987
Prices £50,000-£70,000
Length 41ft 2in Beam: 13ft The smaller predecessor to the 435 has the same spacious layout ideal for family cruising Buy one (pictured) 1984 £55,000 www.farndonmarina.co.uk
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Beaulieu Boat Jumble
F
or the boater on a budget, the calendar of boat jumbles around the country offers the opportunity to grab some much-needed kit at greatly reduced prices. The mother of all the jumbles is, of course, held annually at Beaulieu, and 2014 marked the 37th year of this boating institution. Like every other visitor, we went there not just for a great day out, but also with
NEALE BYART
a list of boating bits to keep an eye out for. On our shopping list was some Volvo duoprops, a pair of trim tab anodes, some outdrive antifoul, and a new steering wheel for our little RIB. The great thing about a boat jumble is the ability to find all manner of stuff in one place that you would otherwise have to search high and low for. Of course fenders, ropes, outboards and dinghies
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Beaulieu Boat Jumble
BARGAIN HUNT
5
9 5 1 £
CE PRI
This F.A.M.E was for sale in the Boatmart section
Beaulieu, you’ll just need to be prepared to get stuck in and rummage like your life depends on it. This year’s event was somewhat blighted by the weather. Heavy downpours on an outdoor show held on a grassy field is only going to end one way, and by closing time it started to resemble a wet Glastonbury Festival. Having said that, although the damage was done early on, the rain did let Heavy rain made it quite up, and the sun even shone for the latter muddy part of the day. The event is made up of around 1000 were available in their droves, in fact the stalls spread over five different sections. last time I saw this many seagulls in one The Boatmall offers the latest products place was when I dropped my chips on from big name brands, the Boatmart area the pavement in Brixham harbour, but it’s is lined with used boats for those stalls with boxes of miscellaneous sale, and the Display stuff that really entices. If you need a heat area is where you can exchanger for a Thornycroft, a switch see exhibits such as panel for your Eberspacher, or a workshop this year’s collection manual for your Ford, I reckon you would from the Classic have every chance of finding them at
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PRICE
£10,000 This stunning 1971 Sea Ray stole the show for me
Motorboat Association. Most people though come for the final two sections, the Boat Jumble itself and the Trunk Traders area, where private individuals sell off surplus boating kit à la car boot sale. Boatmart temptations There were two vessels that caught my eye in this section. First was the little F.A.M.E boat, possibly a Domino, built just up the road from us in Wickford, Essex,
and reminiscent of the little Mayland we had when I was growing up. With a tidy looking 25hp Evinrude and a serviceable trailer, the £1595 or near offer price looked pretty good. Next up, I have to confess, I fell deeply in love with Shearwater, a 1971 Searay SRV190. This boat had spent much of its life undercover and the original vinyl and cockpit carpet were almost as new. The hull also looked in very good condition,
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Beaulieu Boat Jumble
BARGAIN HUNT
the OMC Electric shift sterndrive clean and tidy and the V6 engine sounded perfect. The colour maybe very 1970’s bathroom suite, and the dash could have been taken straight out of a mark three Ford Cortina, but these things just made me love it more. For circa £10k, you could be driving this very unique classic sportsboat, or a much more modern all white version. I know what I’d prefer and I really had to hold back. Classic Motorboats When it comes to old and beautiful, it would be hard to beat some of the vessels displayed by the Classic Motorboat Association. We had a lovely chat with a couple who restored a 1960’s fiberglass boat, and we hope to feature that in the mag in the coming months, but in the meantime who could fail to admire the 1964 Cantiere Navale Donoratico This Riva-esque Italian beauty was on display in ‘Georgona’? The Riva-esque lines and the Classic Motorboat section perfect finish meant I just couldn’t help but stroke it, so my apologies to the owner for leaving fingerprints on your lovely varnish work. This control panel for Eltrim trim tabs was a good buy PRICE
£10
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Jumble What constitutes a bargain in the rest of the show really depends upon what you came for, but I think that the brand new, still in its box, Raymarine RD218 radome was well worth the £700, considering this model has been discontinued and is getting very difficult to find. If you need radar on your old C or E series, put Beaulieu in your diary for next year as I also spotted another used one in the Trunk Traders section, just as I was on my way out. Another little bargain I found was a control panel for Eltrim trim tabs. Again brand new and still in the box, these panels do go faulty and for £10 it would be well worth sticking in your stores. I was also rather taken with a blow E
C PRI
£30
0 0 7 £ E
C PRI
up electric jet ski. Allegedly capable of 7 knots, it looked like a great toy for the kids at just £30, but perhaps one of the best bargains I saw, although too late to take advantage, was three of the very elusive Raymarine ST60 sun covers that went to one lucky punter for £10. These are like hens teeth and can fetch £20 each on an auction website. What about my shopping list? Well I didn’t get it all, but I did manage to bag a bargain of my own. A set of original A6 Volvo Penta duoprops, only very slightly used, bartered down from £80 to £60. If you need something specific, the date of next year’s Beaulieu boat jumble is the 26th of April but you don’t have to wait until then to grab a bargain. There are still 19 more regional jumbles in 2014.
Can’t afford the real thing? This battery powered www.boatjumbleassociation.co.uk jetski looked great fun for the kids (and big kids)
PRICE
£60
Duo props were on my shopping list and these A6’s were a bargain! 38
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Beaulieu Boat Jumble
BARGAIN HUNT
10 Boat Jumble survival tips 1. Get there early. The best bargains will be snapped up quickly and the Beaulieu event really needs a whole day to get around. 2. Take lots of cash. Some stalls accept cards but cash is still king and you don’t want to miss out on a bargain because you don’t have the readies. 3. Wear good waterproof boots. As we saw this year, rain doesn’t stop play but cold wet feet will affect your enjoyment. 4. If you are going there for some specific items, make sure you take any relevant measurements with you and take a tape measure. There is nothing worse than holding a bargain in your hand but not being quite sure it it’s the right size or whether it will fit. 5. Be prepared to barter. This is not the high street and traders seem to expect a bit of bartering. What have you got to lose?
6. Don’t procrastinate. If you see a bargain grab it while you can, otherwise someone else will. 7. Think about carrying stuff. If you are planning to get some heavy or bulky kit, think how you are going to transport it back to the car. Beaulieu has a free service, but many canny visitors take a barrow or trolley. 8. Keep legitimate. Sometimes stolen goods can end up at jumbles. Look out for removed serial numbers on high value items such as electronics or outboards. 9. Don’t buy or sell flares. It is illegal to trade in pyrotechnics from a temporary stand. 10. Have fun. Be prepared to meet friends and fellow boat owners and get side tracked. It’s a small world and I have yet to attend a jumble and not bump into old friends.
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Cherbourg Guernsey
Cherbourg is one of the largest man made ports in Europe and is an ideal refuge to start your Normandy by Claire Frew or Channel Islands adventures
C
herbourg is an all-weather, 24-hour access port with a modern visitor marina, Port Chantereyne. It’s often seen simply as a stepping-stone, after a cross channel passage, to the surrounding tidally restricted ports in the Channel Islands and on the Normandy Coast of France. It also presents a convenient opportunity to top up the booze cupboard and stock the fridge with smelly cheese. Some of us may not have even ventured
further than the pontoons. But there is a lot more to Cherbourg than meets the eye and certainly with us, its familiarity has sparked an affinity with the marina, town and spectacular harbour. You are certain to discover something new each time you visit. For centuries Cherbourg has been a military port. Its impressive fortified breakwaters date back to the 18th century and enclose over 1500 hectares of water,
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Destination
CHERBOURG
ENGLISH CHANNEL
Cherbourg
Inside Cherbourg’s fortified harbour lies the visitor marina Port Chantereyne, which has all-weather and all-tides access
making it one of the largest man made ports in Europe. Its network of high walls and forts wear the scars of World War II. Untouched, un-inhabited, military restricted and crumbling into the sea, they are a ghostly reminder of the ports incredible past. The French Navy has always maintained a presence in Cherbourg and nowadays the navy base, or L’Arsenal occupies most of the western side of the harbour with is dry docks and basins. All are restricted to the public and pleasure boaters by water. The area is defined on its eastern perimeter by the large red and grey buildings that
flank Port Chantereyne. These buildings are where the company DCNS construct nuclear submarines. The west of the harbour has a very industrial look. Here lies an established ferry port, which is frequently visited by passenger cruise liners, there are also ship builders and a coal terminal. Soon sustainable energy industries will be coming to the harbour, blades for wind and tidal stream turbines will be built here. Fishing has always been an important industry for the town. You will see trawlers moored in the inner basin and
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©Marine Nationale
A formidable symbol of Cherbourg’s past. The battle scarred Fort Central has two harbours either side, used for docking troops, and was modified during the German occupation of World War II
the small fishing boats in the marina along Quai de Caligny. The fish market is still in operation at the southern end of the harbour, providing for local restaurants. Salmon is now farmed in pens in the outer harbour and it’s definitely something to try on a menu when in town. In town the streets are lined with impressive three or four storey schist stone properties, most featuring ornate railings and coloured shutters. Cherbourg is still very much a market town with weekly open air markets held on Thursdays
and Saturdays on the Theatre Square or along Rue du Commerce. A sprinkling of cosmopolitan French boutiques and big brand shops can be found along Rue de Chateau. On the east side of the Bassin du Commerce (inner basin) is the Les Eleis, a new modern shopping centre featuring many big brand outlets. Here is also where you find the huge Carrefour supermarket, an obligatory visit for any boater. As a Brit we are used to rain, and Cherbourg is just like home in this respect, so be prepared for an occasional heavy downpour. Cherbourg residents joke about the rain and the umbrella features on many tourist gifts and postcards.
History
Nestled in the middle of a huge exposed bay, Cherbourg began life in the 5th century as a walled city with a fortress at the waters edge. The city had tall ramparts, similar to that of Saint Malo and it had a river to the East, where the inner basin is today. The city’s strategic positioning and vulnerability to attack was recognised by the French King, Louis XVI and in 1782, Napolean I was responsible for harbour fortifications. His statue sits near the green beach work began fortifying the harbour. He 42
June 2014
Destination
CHERBOURG
created a military port for his troops and by 1797 ships were being built here. The construction of the harbour fortifications we see today was drawn out over some 77 years and was not without complications, storms ravaged some of the first work achieved. One of the early attempts can be seen on the shallow reef close to the east entrance. Dramatic harbour defence work was then undertaken by Napolean I, and was completed by Napolean III by 1860. The huge central sea wall, forming the outer harbour, known as the Grande Rade is over 4km long and took approximately 4 years to build. The inner harbour, known as the Petite Rade and breakwaters to the east and west were constructed later, as was a small break in the outer harbour east wall to allow fishing boats to enter quickly. A bronze statue of Napolean I on a horse, sits on the edge of the road at Place Napolean. He points towards the mighty Cherbourg military arsenal and the inscription reads, ‘I resolved to renew Cherbourg the wonders of Egypt’.
©Bibliothéque Jacques Prévert / Ville de Cherbourg-Octeville
Cherbourg in the wake of World War II. American trucks at the foot of the Napolean I statue. In the background the passenger terminal partly destroyed
It is fair to say steam travel in the 20th century revolutionised the town. Railways linked Cherbourg to Paris, and liners carried passengers off to far-flung places. Probably the most iconic liner to visit to Cherbourg was the Titanic in 1912. At this time the 883ft ship was too big to lay alongside the ferry terminal. On the 10th of April it stayed in the outer harbour for approximately 1½ hours while 250 passengers embarked via steam launches, before it departed for Queenstown in Ireland, before setting off on its fateful voyage across the Atlantic. Cherbourg grew to be an important port for immigration and emigration, and it saw thousands of people, many from the UK and Ireland pass through its passenger terminal each year. They travelled to countries such as Brazil and America, boarding overcrowded transatlantic steam ships in search of a new life. The 1933 art deco style transatlantic passenger terminal, much of which was destroyed at the end of World War II, is now home
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beachfront town, but if you look closely the walls and ramparts are still visible. Remains of the sea front wall can be seen close to the dry dock at Quai de Caligny, and inside the church Basilique SainteTrinité. A statue at the very front of the church sits in an original town rampart. In June 1940 France was gripped by The French destroyed the Fort de I’Est garrison war, and with the Germans advancing when the Germans invaded Cherbourg in 1940 towards Cherbourg, the French navy blew to the museum La Cite de la Mer. Visitors up their garrison, housed in Fort de l’Est. In the wake of the D-Day landings in 1944 to the museum can see the preserved baggage terminal and access the records of allied troops marched over land some 30 everyone that passed through Cherbourg. miles to Cherbourg to launch their attack on the Germans, who had occupied the Nowadays the deep water ferry port has town for 4 years. The Germans did not go developed further east but ships such as Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 are still allowed to quietly and deployed thousands of mines, sank ships in the harbour and crippled dock alongside the old terminal building the bridge that spanned the river, what and its passengers use the original is now the inner basin. Much of the city gangways. was destroyed during, what is known as, It is hard to imagine Cherbourg as a
Approach Chart Fort Chavagnac
Fort de I’Est
WEST ENTRANCE
EAST ENTRANCE
GRANDE RADE
Ile Pelee
PETITE RADE L’Arsenal
Port Chantereyne Ferry Terminal
Entering the harbour via the western entrance gives you time to prepare for berthing 44
June 2014
Destination
CHERBOURG
Marine Supplies
The beach was reclaimed to build Port Chantereyne. It is now called the ‘green beach’
the Battle of Cherbourg. The breakwater shows the scars and is riddled with bullet holes. Cherbourg was liberated 3 weeks later on the 26th June and allied forces helped rebuild the city, landing supplies on Cherbourg beach. In 1965, work began on creating a harbour inside the Petite Rade walls. For this, the beach was reclaimed and transformed into what is now called the green beach, a vast recreational grass area, separating the town from the sea. By 1975 work on Port Chantereyne had begun.
Approaches
Entering Cherbourg is fairly straight forward, but you will need to keep a good look out for lobster pots on your final approach. There are three entrances to the Grande Rade (outer harbour). The main two are west and east of the main central seawall. The western entrance, called the Passe de l’Ouest is the widest, and the eastern, Passe de l’Est, is used by the ferries and liners. The eastern entrance has a rocky reef to the east, but the channel is well marked by port hand buoys. The third entrance is to the far east of the harbour. Passe de Collignon, south east of Ile Pelee
There are three chandleries at Port Chantereyne, Accastillage Diffusion, Cherbourg Plaisance and AC Nautisme. The marina and all of the above should be able to assist with repairs. Accastillage Diffusion can supply parts for Yamaha, Yanmar and Nanni engines, Aries AMS can help with electronics and Cap Loisirs is the on site Volvo dealer supplying spares and repairs. Should you have a problem and require a lift, the 24-hr emergency number for the marina and boatyard is +33 (0)6 87 71 09 22
Food Supplies
Fresh bread is available in the morning from L’Armoire a Delices next to the marina building. The closest boulangerie to the marina is Maison Toulorge. For local meat for the BBQ, the butcher Boucherie Charcuterie ‘La Fontaine’ on Rue de la Chapelle is a good choice. Close to the junction of Rue Gambetta and Rue Marechal Foch there is a smaller Carrefour City supermarket, this is a 10-minute walk from Port Chantereyne marina. The large Carrefour is to the east of the inner basin, a 15-20 minute walk. Be aware that many shops in Cherbourg are closed on a Sunday.
Wine
Wine companies visit the pontoons with price lists and will deliver directly to your boat. Alternatively you can visit the shops in town like La Cave du Roy on Rue Tour Carree, to sample it and arrange delivery if required.
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When you enter the Petite Rade, you will pass pier ‘Digue de Homet’ to starboard (above). Due south lies the entrance to Port Chantereyne seen here (below). The City de la Mer is on the left
is used mainly by fisherman. It is not well known and it needs careful navigation by day, and should not be attempted at night. The entrance is approximately 60 metres wide and should only be used at or around high water Cherbourg, when there is approximately 2 metres depth. We would recommend using the western entrance as it keeps you away from the majority of commercial traffic entering and leaving Cherbourg. It also gives you more time, and often more shelter behind the seawall, to ready your lines and fenders. This entrance is marked by a green light on Fort Chavagnac and a port hand buoy just inside of the adjacent fort. The speed limit in the outer harbour is 14 knots and 8 knots in the inner harbour, but we would suggest that you keep well below this, keeping an eye on your wake. From here you will need to cross the outer harbour in an east-south-easterly
direction, heading for the entrance to the Petite Rade (inner harbour) at the end of Digue de Homet. Be aware and keep clear of any commercial traffic converging on this entrance from the north side of the harbour. These vessels dock just inside the Petite Rade on the east side. Passing the pier head of Digue de Homet marked in white and black ‘Port Militaire’, turn south. Ahead you will see a pierhead with a large ornate grey and glass facade of the Cite de la Mer, the old transatlantic ferry terminal building. The entrance channel to Port Chantereyne lies to starboard. Before you enter the marina breakwater it is worth having fenders and ropes prepared for both sides, as the visitor marina is mainly finger berths. Also ensure that you have dropped your speed down to a no wash speed of 3 knots or below. Cherbourg Harbour is very well lit for navigation at night, but it can be quite
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Destination confusing with the glow of the lights from the town behind, in particular when looking for the entrance to the Petite Rade. Again opting for the west entrance (if feasible) might be easier, giving you more time to cross the Grande Rade, pick up the lights and see any commercial traffic. But be aware that the entrance port hand marker is just inside the harbour wall, and may be obscured if your approach is from the north, so favour the starboard hand mark as you approach, and until the port hand buoy becomes visible.
CHERBOURG
The staff at the marina reception speak english but it doesn’t hurt to try a little French
12 metres. The alongside berthing on the east side of Q pontoon is used or reserved for larger vessels over 14m. Larger vessels may also be directed to J pontoon, which is an events pontoon. Always ensure that Port Chantereyne operate on VHF you are happy with the instructions given channel 9 but, during working hours, harbour staff may greet you in a red zodiac before you enter between the rows of fingers as turning between the fingers can as you enter the marina and help direct be a little tricky, particularly if it’s windy. you to a berth. Otherwise just find a free At busy times or if you arrive late at night berth on one of the visitors pontoons there is a waiting pontoon A, which is (N, P and Q). Depending on your boats close to the entrance but is not connected design and length, berthing stern-to to shore. You may wish to lay alongside may give you better access. The largest here until morning. Please note there is finger berths for boats measuring 12-14 metres can be found on the west side of Q electric available on this pontoon but there is no water supply. pontoon. N and P pontoons have shorter Overnight berthing for a 10-metre boat fingers suitable for boats between up to
Where to moor
Harbour staff will greet you and direct you to a berth. There is usually plenty of space for visitors Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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during high season (May-September) is €27.70 including electric. Group bookings of 10 boats or more will receive a 20% discount on their marina fees, with rallies of between 5 and 9 boats receiving 10%. Discounts to individual boats may also be
Fuel Berth
Town Centre Train Station
1
Footpath
£
offered during specific events. The newly refurbished marina reception building houses excellent free toilet and shower facilities. During reception opening hours (7.30am-11pm) boaters have use of a lounge area with sofas,
2 3
Cashpoint
A
Carrefour Supermarket
5
N P Q
11 1
Carrefour Express
13
10
3
2
14 £
8
KEY 1 Port Chantereyne 2 Emmanuel Liais Park 3 Napolean I statue 4 Fort Roule
9
£ £ £ £
16 15
7 6
2
5 La Cite de la Mer 6 7 8 9
La Pizza Restaurant Cafe de Paris La Plouc Restaurant
1
L’Antidote Restaurant 10 L’Armoire a Delices
11 Restaurant L’Equipage 12 Jardin Public 13 Les Quais Des Mers 14 Basilique Sainte-Trinité 15 Maison Toulorge 16 Quai de Caligny
12
4
Cherbourg
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Destination
CHERBOURG
Charts & Pilot Books
Markets are held on Thursdays and Saturdays
a coffee machine and desks with UK charging sockets. Here you will also find a book exchange. Out of hours there is coded access to the facilities and weather information, displayed on an LCD screen.
Where to eat & drink
A short stroll from the marina towards the inner basin along Quai Caligny and you will be faced with a choice of waterfront restaurants for all tastes and budgets. Some are traditionally French, like the ‘Restaurant Café de Paris’, serving specialties such as fruit de mer and lobster. While others are not so traditional, like the great family value Italian ‘La Pizza’. If you are looking for French cuisine and are willing to wander a little further, ‘Le Plouc’ is a good choice. This charming restaurant is down a passageway off Rue au Ble and located in a little courtyard
Restaurant Cafe de Paris on Quai de Caligny
North France & Belgium Cruising Companion Neville Featherstone Shell Channel Pilot Reeds Channel Almanac Adlard Coles The Normandy Coast from the Air: Cap de la Hague to Cap Frehel Admiralty SC5604 Channel Islands (Leisure Chart Folio) Imray 2110 North France Chart Pack Imray 2500 The Channel Islands and adjacent coast of France Chart Pack
Weather information • Noaa Channel Light Actuals • Meteo France - Baie de Somme to La Hague forecast • Windfinder France
Where to fill up
The fuel berth at Port Chantereyne is located on the southwest side of the marina, close to J pontoon, in front of the marina building and near to the crane. Diesel ‘Gazoil’ and petrol ‘Sans Plomb’ is available here. It is a self-service system, with a choice of a 24-hour fuel pump that dispenses €120 at a time, or large quantities can be obtained via the marina reception during working hours (7.30am-11pm). The latter is a bit of a procedure but it does work. Leave a credit card at reception, telling them which fuel and pump you are using. You dispense the fuel, making sure afterwards that the hose nozzle clicks back into the pump on shore, before returning to pay. Fuelling at around high water is easiest as the fuel pumps are on the shore.
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featuring one of the towns old fortress ramparts. There is a selection of menus available here from €18- €35. On the same courtyard there is L’Antidote, which is a good value French brasserie. If you find yourself at La Cité de la Mer at lunch time, or at the end of the day, why not have dinner at Les Quais Des Mers. It’s situated in the art deco transatlantic passenger terminal looking out onto the harbour. Set menus here cost €19 and €25. We would suggest getting a taxi back as it is quite a long walk. There are also two great choices of restaurants on site at Port Chantereyne. There is the L’Armoire a Delices and the newly renovated Restaurant L’Equipage above the marina reception. If your are in town centre during the day and need a spot to eat, you cannot go wrong with a traditional sweet or savoury French crépe. The Au St Michel Creperie on Rue Tour Carree comes highly recommended. If you are with a group wine tasting can be arranged by the marina reception. Alternatively you may be able to arrange a tasting of Sauvignon wines from Louviere at the eclectic La Ballon Rouge Galerie Ber on Rue du Port. The Black Dog Café on Rue du Blé
It is possible to arrange a wine tasting at the eclectic gallery-bar La Ballon Rouge
Restaurant Le Plouc is in a charming courtyard
has a very British pub feel. It serves ale on draught, and frequently has live entertainment. It’s also a good place to catch the football and rugby if there is a tournament on.
Places to visit
A visit to the La Cité de la Mer is a must. The transatlantic liner terminal building has been transformed into a maritime museum with a focus on underwater exploration. Inside is an aquarium (one of the deepest in Europe), an excellent exhibition on the voyage of the Titanic and you can board the incredible French nuclear submarine, Le Redoubtable. Entrance to the museum, including the exhibits costs €18 for adults and €13 for children. If you collect the A5 size Cherbourg Marina Guide from the Port Chantereyne reception, there is a voucher inside for a €1.50 reduction per person, when two or more adults tickets are
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Destination purchased. The Emmanual-Liais Park is an extraordinary little oasis that many previous visitors have probably never discovered. It is only a five minute walk from the marinaand inside there are beautiful gardens with colourful flowers, stunning trees, a fish pond and an observatory tower. It also has a superb collection of exotic plants inside a greenhouse, and the Musee Emmanuel Liais, on site houses artefacts from all over the world, collected by the park founder Emmanual-Liais. Both the museum and greenhouse are free to enter. High up above the town, some 117 metres above sea level, lies La Fort du Roule, a Napoleonic fort which was occupied by Germans during World War II. It is about a 40-minute walk from Port Chantereyne and quite a climb up the steep Montee des Resistants road
CHERBOURG
The aquarium at Cité de la Mer is incredible. It is superb day out for the family
with its hairpin bends, but it’s well worth the effort, as the panoramic view of the harbour is spectacular. The fort now houses the Musee de la Liberation, which tells the moving story of Cherbourg during the German occupation, through to the liberation of the town. Entrance ©La Cité de la Mer_F.Castel
At La Cité de la Mer you can step aboard Cherbourg’s first nuclear submarine, visit the huge aquarium, retrace the voyage of the Titanic or visit the preserved transatlantic baggage hall Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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Take some time out and visit the stunning secluded Emmanuel Liais Park and museum
is €4 or free on Sundays. Again there is a money off coupon available in your marina guide. Half way down the side of the hill there is an entrance to a network of pre war tunnels built by the French Navy. The tunnels were built to service huge underground fuel tanks and it is said that the tunnels run from the fort all the way to the arsenal, west of the harbour. Looking back at the fort and hill from seaward you will see the German gun emplacements in the hillside, and the raised sections of grass indicate where the tunnels lie. At the foot of the Roule Mountain,
Musee de la Liberation at Fort du Roule
along the Voie de la Liberte there is the ‘Jardin Public’. Inside are beautiful manicured gardens with a bandstand, exotic plants, an aviary, animals and ponds with fish and terrapins. The pool here was once home to a grey seal, which became a bit of a mascot for the town. Sadly it died after many years but was put on display at the Musee Emmanuel Liais. It is not possible to land and visit the harbour forts and seawall so the best way to see them is by boat. A harbour tour aboard L’Adele (Promenades en Mer) is very interesting. Unfortunately the commentary is in French but there are printed English translations on board. If it is raining, there is a bowling alley and the heated indoor swimming pool, Piscine Chantereyne on the west side of the marina. A trip to Cherbourg would not be complete without a visit to the large Carrefour to the east of the inner basin. Inside are row upon row of delicious French foods, clothing, home essentials, wines and spirits. It is still possible to
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Destination take a Carrefour trolley all the way back to the marina but the route can be a little tricky. The marina and store are aware and have tolerated this practice by boaters for many years, but they kindly ask that the trolleys are returned if possible, or stacked at the eastern end of the marina so they can be collected. Our advice would be to take your own trolley or go as a group to lighten the load. The Carrefour is open Monday to Saturday from 8.30am-9pm. There is no better year to visit Cherbourg and the Normandy coast, as this year marks the 70th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. There are many commemorative events planned, from concerts to exhibitions. Details can be found on the websites normandiememoire.com and normandytourism.org. The beaches at Arromanches are an hour away by car and it’s possible to hire cars in Cherbourg from companies such as Europcar, Enterprise and Ada. To mark this years anniversary, the Cité de la Mer is hosting a temporary exhibition of striking images showing Cherbourg during the liberation. © calvados-tourisme.com
D-Day Mulberry harbours at Arromanches
CHERBOURG
Boating abroad
It is essential to carry passports for all those on board, as well as the ship’s original registration document, Part 1 or SSR.
Staying longer?
Port Chantereyne has two different rates for high season, 1st May-30 Sept and low season, 1st Jan-30th Apr. 10m Week Berth High Season €138.50 10m Week Berth Low Season €118.50 10m Month Berth High Season €446 10m Month Berth Low Season €377 10m Annual Berth €2071 All prices include electric. Brittany Ferries offer a daily 3hr fast ferry service to and from Portsmouth at £29 one way.
Further afield
There are a number of places to visit from Cherbourg - St Vaast and the Channel Islands are just two. If you are going to the Channel Islands you will need to plan your passage through the Alderney Race carefully.
Distances
Approximate distances in nautical miles from Cherbourg: • Alderney 27 miles • St Vaast 28 miles • Carteret 40 miles • Guernsey 46 miles • Weymouth 68 miles • Portsmouth 75 miles For more information: www.portchantereyne.fr/en www.ville-cherbourg.fr www.cherbourgtourism.com
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USED BOAT
SECOND LOOK
Shetland 27 ‘Sun Quest’
H
ow do you fancy a 27ft boat, with space for the whole family, plus all the facilities you could possibly need for extended time on board, and all for under £40k? What if that boat was a current model, and had only been lightly used in the five years since it was commissioned? Yes, it’s a boat designed primarily for the inland waterways, but the hull is capable of taking on tidal
waterways, estuaries and even benign coastal locations with the right engine. Sun Quest, a 2009 Shetland 27, meets all those criteria, including being fitted with the largest engine option, capable of providing more than enough power to tackle sheltered tidal waters. The Shetland 27 was originally launched in 2004 as an inboard boat. The outboard version was launched three years later in
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FOR SALE
£39,950
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2007. By mounting the engine out on the bathing platform, the outboard powered boat is able to pack in much better accommodation than the inboard version, with five berths inside the cabin, rather than the four offered by the earlier boat. Boarding from the pontoon or riverbank isn’t as easy as some boats, as there is no through transom access. Instead you need to climb over the transom or over the cockpit sides. To aid this, Shetland has moulded a step into each side of the hull that helps enormously. Inside the cockpit there is also a step on each side to aid progress, and both are lit with a courtesy light. The cockpit offers seating around the transom for four, and a small table turns this area into a nice place to while away a pleasant evening with a drink or two. Beneath the seating on the starboard side is a very deep locker that goes straight into the bilge, and where the boat’s LPG heater is located. This heater has an outlet into the cockpit, as well as the cabin space, to help extend your boating season. Access to the speed and depth transducer is also through this locker. Next to this is a gas locker, set up to take a pair of 4.5kg Calor gas bottles, and beneath the middle section of seating is the boat’s gas/electric water heater,
The 27 has a step on each side to aid access
together with a pair of 110ah batteries. Underneath the port seat is the vented fuel tank locker, housing two 25 litre portable tanks with room for at least one more if required. This U shaped transom seat converts into a large sunpad, or occasional double berth, with a wooden infill and a couple of cushions. In the aft section of the cockpit sole is a hatch that provides access to a large lazarette. The space would be very useful for storing all your riverbank paraphernalia such as BBQ’s and deckchairs etc, although the limited width of the access hatch may dictate what will fit in there. The hatch would also benefit from a stay, to hold it open when in use. Up at the business end of the cockpit are the raised, and very comfortable, helm and navigators seats. Both come with a pair Sun Quest has the largest engine option at 100hp of lifting armrests, which is particularly 56
June 2014
Comfortable seats, a nicely laid out dash, and good visability, apart from aft with the canopy up
important on the helm seat, as you need to lift the port armrest to help when selecting reverse. Both seats are adjustable fore and aft, although they don’t seem to swivel to allow them to become part of the aft social area. The 27 comes with a folding windscreen and mast, allowing it to limbo under all but the lowest of bridges. The helm has a rev counter, voltmeter, water gauge, trim indicator and a 12 volt socket. There is no fuel gauge so you’ll need to check the built in gauge on the under seat tanks if you need to know your fuel status. There is a Nasa Clipper Duet for speed and depth, and the control panel for the Side Power bow thruster, which is a useful feature and a standard fit on the 27. There is some space left on the helm to fit additional kit, and the whole helm panel, complete with steering wheel, lifts to give access to the electrics and wiring beneath, making any additions very straightforward. The view from the helm
forward, and to the sides, is good with or without the canopy up, but the aft view is quite restricted unless the canopy is removed. In front of the navigator’s seat is a chart area and both seats include a well positioned footrest. The cockpit is finished in an ivory coloured vinyl with maroon piping to match the canopy. Both vinyl and canopy are in very good condition with no remedial work needed now, or probably
A useful locker, but the hatch doesn’t stay open
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USED BOAT
SECOND LOOK
The cockpit offers seating for four around a small table, perfect for a sundowner
for the foreseeable future. This 27 also has fake teak decking in the cockpit, a ÂŁ2000 option, and the whole cockpit has a rather classy feel about it. Moving into the accommodation means negotiating three nice sturdy steps with a well-positioned grab rail to hand. The accommodation is sealed off with a pair of wooden doors and a wooden companionway hatch, which has two clear panels inlaid to help provide the aft end of the accommodation with light. The first
The whole dash panel lifts to get to the electrics 58
thing I noted going down below was how nice the boat smelled. That may sound strange, but with so many used boats being damp and unloved, it jumped out just how pleasant the interior odour of this boat was and helps to give an impression of a loved and well cared for vessel. In the bow of the 27 is a large round seating area with a small table. Although this offers seating for four, it would be perfect for a couple to lounge in the evening, maybe watching a TV that could be mounted on one of the midships bulkheads. This area can be used as two single berths, or with the table removed and an infill positioned, a large round double berth. Beneath this seating are the boats water tanks, two of 66 litres each and made of stainless steel. There is a tank on each side connected with a balance pipe. There is also a significant amount of ballast on the port side and access to the bow thruster under the forward cushion.
June 2014
The forward seating can be used for lounging, or as additional berths, either two singles or a double
Although there is still lots of space under here, it is all open bilge and not really suitable for storage, apart from the odd bulkier item. Two overhead hatches, triple aspect windows and light coloured upholstery means the cabin feels bright and airy, but roller hatch covers and curtains all around soon turn it into a cosy private area when the need arises. Moving aft and on the port side there is a dinette, compact for four, but spacious
for two. With the small table forward there is room for six or more to sit and eat at a table, not bad for a 27 footer. The dinette converts into a berth, not really wide enough to be a double, but generous, in width if not length, for a single. There are two very large lockers underneath the dinette seats, access to which is either through a front hatch or by lifting the seat cushion. Opposite the dinette is the galley. This is a very usable area with lots of Corian The dinette converts into a generous single and houses lots of storage
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USED BOAT
SECOND LOOK
The cabin offers open plan accommodation and is light and airy
worktop that comes with an integral drainer and a deep single sink. The galley boasts a three-burner hob, a gas oven and a fridge, as well as a decent amount of storage. There is even a soft closing action on the galley drawer. In the floor between galley and dinette is a long but very shallow locker. Useful for storing heavy items such as tinned food where the
weight won’t affect the balance of the boat. The cabin has two opening sliding windows to supplement ventilation via the hatches, and there is around six foot headroom at the galley dropping just a couple of inches as you move forward. There is no evidence of any water leaks in or around the windows, although at some point water has penetrated the A really usable galley with lots of work space
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bottoms of the bulkheads around the cabin entrance. This could be due to a leak from the shower, or more simply that the companionway was left open in a downpour, but it all seems to be dry now. Some remedial work to the wood may be beneficial but not critical. The cabin is illuminated by eight halogen lights that are all either on or off. While this makes it nice and bright, it would soon sap the power from your batteries when moored on a riverbank. The new owner might like to consider changing these for LED’s to conserve power. For evening mood lighting, or night-time manouvers, Shetland has included low-level lighting along the bottom of the galley. Aft of the dinette is a hanging locker that also includes some shelf storage. It’s a good size but I can’t help thinking the space at the top is wasted. Opposite this A functional toilet compartment, but there is no dry storage in here when showering
A locker in the floor offers additional storage
is the toilet compartment with 5 foot 11 inches headroom. It has an opening window, a shower tray, a porta potti and a sink. It is basic, but spotless, functional and roomy enough for its intended use. The double midships berth, a benefit of this model having an outboard engine, is beneath the cockpit. This is not a separate cabin, but could easily be afforded more privacy with the addition of a curtain. There is a standing dressing area with 6ft headroom and a small floor level storage unit. The berth is only 5ft 10in long, which may be an issue for the taller boater. To be honest with a beam of 9ft 6in and no cupboard at the end of the berth it seems that the berth could easily have been
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USED BOAT
SECOND LOOK
The double midships berth is the bonus for choosing the outboard powered 27
designed a little longer. The are a couple of areas of loose headlining in the berth, and there is evidence of overspray of the glue used in construction, but with a bit of fettling this could all be put right quite easily, and at little or zero cost. Externally Sun Quest is in good order with barely a scuff or scrape in evidence. We found a single void in the lay up that had caused a small hole in the gelcoat on the topsides, but that should be very cheap and simple to put right. The side decks are a good size and the foredeck offers a nice flat working area. The anchor locker is not huge, but there is certainly space to store a couple of fenders. Moving from cockpit to side decks and vice versa is easy enough, and there are plenty of grab rails to aid movement along the boat. Fendering the boat amidships could be an issue, as with only low down attachment points it will be hard to raise the fenders up to the gunwale when passing through locks. Tying them 62
to the grab rail would work, but then you would need to step over the ropes when moving along the side deck. The bathing platform provides a boarding ladder, a useful auxiliary outboard bracket and, of course, the boats main power plant, in this case a 100hp four stroke Mariner. The 27 is currently offered with engines up to 80hp, so the 100 is probably more power than you’d ever need. If you were not planning
A nice flat foredeck is perfect for lock work
June 2014
Sun Quest is quiet and very frugal at river speeds. The bow thruster aids close quarters manoeuvres
A single decent outboard will provide good fuel economy on the river and enough power for the tides, and all this for under £40k. It even has a boat safety certificate until 2017.
Boat Name: Sun Quest Make/Model: Shetland 27 Year: 2009 Engine: 1 x 100hp Mariner outboard LOA: 8.1m / 26ft 6in Beam: 2.93m / 9ft 6in
SPECIFICATIONS
on venturing out of the inland waterway network it is questionable as to whether you would need anything but the 40hp smallest engine option, but it’s always nice to know you have power in reserve should it be needed. While many will always prefer a diesel engine, modern four stroke outboards put up a good case for petrol motors. They are quiet, they are smoke and smell free, they provide very little vibration and, when used on the river, they are very frugal. The Mariner 100hp fitted to Sun Quest would burn around 4 litres an hour and achieve around 5mpg at normal river speed. What Sun Quest offers is a modern boat, with a clean modern interior, for a price that is hard to beat. If you plan on doing some serious sea passages, this is probably not the boat for you. If, however, you are going to be mainly inland based with an occasional foray into sheltered tidal waters, why pay extra, or buy older, for something with large twin diesels.
Air Draft: 2.43m (2.1m screen folded)
Displacement: 2281kg Fuel: 2 x 25 litres / 11 gallons Water: 2 x 66 litres / 29 gallons Thames Boat Sales www.thamesboatsales.co.uk
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USED BOAT
SECOND LOOK
PRACTICAL
ADVICE
Inflatable Revival BY RICHARD POAT
YOU WILL NEED
T hree years ago I bought a budget
inflatable tender. I chose a Waveline 2.3 round tail as it was light enough to lift up onto the roof of my wheelhouse boat, but still offered enough space for two when rowing ashore. It has proved to be a good buy apart from suffering quite bad UV damage from the sun. This made the tubes go sticky and all the different attempts I had to clean it using various different marine and domestic products were either very short lived, or didn’t work at all. The stickiness kept returning and gradually my cleaning attempts were
TOOLS • Cleaning kit • Paint brush or gloss roller • Paint pot or paint tray CONSUMABLES • Cleaning products • Polymarine Superflex £60 • Masking tape • Clean up kit for spillages and brush cleaning
DIFFICULTY RATING
ooooo actually wearing through the layers of PVC material. I went into my local inflatable boat dealer, A B Marine in St Peter Port, Guernsey, and got chatting to Tony who runs it. He showed me a test piece of PVC
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The tubes on my Waveline tender were suffering from UV damage and had become sticky
material that he had painted several years ago with stripes in all the different colours of a product called Polymarine Superflex. In the ensuing years he had used this test piece to demonstrate the qualities of the paint, each time bending, twisting and stretching the material, and yet it still looked like it was only painted yesterday, being completely devoid of cracks or evidence of peeling. I was sold. The paint is available in a range of colours, including black, yellow, white, red, orange, blue and grey, so you even have the opportunity to change the colour of your dinghy if you wish. I chose to stick with grey. Polymarine also do a similar product for Hypalon boats, called Flexithane, at the same price, although in one less colour. Sorry, you are out of luck
if you have, or want, a yellow Hypalon dinghy. The paint was not cheap, at around £60 for a 750ml tin. It is now sold in 500ml tins for around £45. Polymarine state that 500ml will cover approximately 2.5m2. I used the whole 750ml to paint a 2.3m dinghy, but I only painted from the rubbing strip up and into the hull. This means I painted around 2/3rds of the dinghy with 750ml, although I did give it two coats. The reason I didn’t paint the bottom section of the tubes was that, being out of the sun, they were still in very good condition so I wanted to concentrate my efforts, and the product, on the area that really needed it. The first job was to remove the seat, the painter and the rope grab rails on
I washed and wiped it over with a degreaser, removing the rope grabrails ready for painting Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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PRACTICAL
I applied the first coat in warm sunshine and it was touch dry within 15 minutes
either side. I could have worked around the latter, but for the best job it was good to get them out of the way. I used a fid to undo the splices. I then had to give the boat a thorough wash and degrease. Like most painting jobs, the result will reflect the amount of work you put into the preparation. Painting needs a warm, dry day, unless you are lucky enough to have somewhere inside to do it. I was working on the pontoon so a good spell of weather was vital.
Two coats of paint were applied over two days
The paint doesn’t need stirring or mixing, you simply open the can and get to work with a good quality soft bristle brush, or a gloss roller. I chose to use a brush. If, like me, you have name plates or badges to paint around, consider masking them with a good quality masking tape. I chose to rely on a steady hand instead. On the can it said that the paint is touch dry in around one hour. Maybe it was due to the warm sunshine I was working in, but I found it dried much quicker than this. In fact I found it touch dry in only around 15 minutes. This meant I was having to paint quite quickly and, as the job progressed, I wasn’t very impressed with the results I was achieving. After the first coat it looked a bit rough and the brush strokes were quite visible. A passing boater even suggested I might begin to wish that I’d never started it. Somewhat disappointed I left it overnight before returning the next day to apply the second coat. What a difference the night made. In the morning
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the paint had dried smooth and flat and the finish was pretty impressive. Spurred on, the second coat was applied and left to dry before I replaced the seat, painter and rope grab handles. Some splicing skills were necessary to achieve a decent result with the latter. Again the initial result looked a bit rough but after 24 hours the dinghy had a lovely smooth paint job. It really did look almost as good as new. Obviously the big question is how will it fare long term. Well after a couple of months it is still looking good, but the jury is still out on longevity. I’ll report back later in the year once I have given the dinghy a full seasons use, so watch this space. What I will say with some confidence though, is that it seems to have solved my original problem of sun damaged material. The stickiness has failed to return.
new design same quality
r bright new Look out for ou ! coming season is th n g si e d l e lab Our fresh looking labels fully reflect the ‘high-tech’ formulations that Seajet customers have come to expect. For reliable fouling protection apply Seajet 031, 033, 034 or 039 this coming season. Actual contents remain exactly the same as before.
Job done. The first indications are good but I will report back after a full seasons use
TIME TAKEN
For further information contact our UK distributor: Marine & Industrial LLP T +44 (0)1692 406 822 F +44 (0)1692 406 866 Email: sales@marineindustrial.co.uk
Each coat took around an hour, plus time to clean the dinghy and remove the grab rails meant it took around 3 hours in total.
COST £ At £46.50 for a 500ml tin it would cost around £93 to do a whole 2.5m dinghy with two coats. When painting the same colour, one coat is often adequate, but two coats are definitely required for changing the colour.
www.seajetpaint.com Use Biocides Safely. Always read the label and product information before use.
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
67
tested Icom M91D VHF
Every boat should have a hand held radio. They are great as a backup in case you main set fails, they allow communications between mothership and tender and, while on passage, they can be kept in your grab bag just in case you have to abandon. The cheapest hand held radio will do all the above, but spend a few extra pounds and you can have the benefit of a radio from not only one of the best radio manufacturers in the world, but one with the very real benefit of DSC technology. The radio I have been testing is the Icom M91D, which is a little bulkier than many others, particularly non-DSC handhelds, but still feels very lightweight and comfortable to hold and use. The main keypad is easy to use but the four smaller buttons beneath the screen act as soft keys whose function changes depending upon what screen you are in, and can also be scrolled for different uses in the home screen. Their purpose is labeled on the screen above as white text on a black background but the text is quite small and can sometimes be difficult to see. The nice thing about these keys is that they are easily programmable to suit your requirements. Working the DSC functions is simple. Adding your own MMSI number and new contacts into the database, and making and The M91D is easy to use and simple to programme receiving DSC
PRICE
ÂŁ299.95
alerts is easy. The distress button is on the back under a protective The M91D is a DSC VHF cover and requires a three second press before it sends the distress alert. The integrated GPS, required for the DSC, also provides basic navigational functions with waypoints. Entering waypoints is a bit fiddly but once in, it is easy to start a go-to. The nav screen includes a compass and some basic information such as range, COG and SOG, but there does not appear to be any cross track error details. The radio does have a very useful facility, to record time and position in the event of a man overboard. There did not appear to be an ATIS function on the radio I had. The manual indicated this was only available on German and Dutch radios. Although we don’t use ATIS in the UK, it is a nice feature to have and to be able to turn on if you ever venture into the European inland waterways. The M91D is waterproof to one metre for 30 minutes and will float if dropped in
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June 2014
All tests in Motorboat Owner are carried out by real boaters in real life situations
the water. Floating on its back the screen and keypad flash, as long as this function is turned on in the menu settings. It will also float face down and in this case the distress button flashes to aid location in the dark. There is also an option in the menu system that will sound an audible alarm as well if the radio detects water. After a dunking, you can restore sound quality by activating the AquaQuake function. This vibrates water out of the speaker. Reception and transmit quality are very good, as you would expect with an Icom radio, and a nice touch is that there is also the option of noise cancelling technology on both the Rx and Tx, which is user selectable,
but it’s worth noting Motorboat Owner that the radio comes “A feature packed out of the box with radio you won’t them both turned off. regret buying” There is an external mic socket on top of Value 3/5 the radio, a belt clip Usability 4/5 Performance 5/5 that fixes to the rear, and a charging cradle, with light to advise charging state, that can be either desk or wall mounted. At the RRP, the M91D is quite an expensive radio, but with a little bit of searching you can find it on sale for around £230, which makes it pretty good value. Contact: Icom UK Ltd www.icomuk.co.uk
Henri Lloyd Rockall Half Zip
Anyone who knows me will confirm that I am rarely to be found without some kind of mid layer fleece. Often it is being used as a midlayer as intended, but equally I find them perfect as an outer layer on dry days. My latest is a Henri Lloyd Rockall Half Zip in black. First impressions were great. It is thin and lightweight yet has a lovely soft fleece lining. It does a very good job of keeping the wind out, an essential job It pulled very easily for a fleece; I was PRICE
£70
Motorboat Owner
even told that it was “A great mid layer let down by its very slimming, so durability” it’s starting to sound almost miraculous. Value 1/5 Unfortunately, I Usability 4/5 found one flaw in the Performance 3/5 Rockall Half Zip, its durability. It’s not cheap, but within two days, and before it had even had its first wash; it was showing signs of serious bobbling on the front and back. I wasn’t doing anything out of the ordinary; in fact it was a weekend on the boat like any other, so there really is no excuse. It still feels nice, it still keeps the wind out and the warmth in, but after one wear and wash it looks scruffy, and I have come to expect more from one of my favourite clothing brands.
Contact: Henri Lloyd www.henrilloyd.com
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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Beneteau Flyer 6
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June 2014
BOAT TEST
Length (LOA): 6.22m / 20ft 5in Beam: 2.52m / 8ft 3in Displacement: 1290kg – 1400kg Fuel Capacity: 170 litres Water capacity: 50 litres RCD category: C Engine as tested: Single DF150, DF175, DF200 Suzuki outboard Price from £32,100
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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SPACEdeck
SPACEdeck
SUNdeck SUNdeck
SPORTdeck
SPORTdeck
B
eneteau’s new day boat, the Flyer 6, is actually three boats built on the same hull. You want to use it for water sports, the SPORTdeck is for you, you want lots of open deck area, maybe for fishing or diving, but would also like an enclosed area to store your kit, then the SPACEdeck is the version to look at. If you want a day boat with real overnighting potential, then the SUNdeck is probably the model of interest. All three versions share a hull, but they also share many other features too. In fact the aft half of the SUNdeck and SPACEdeck are pretty much identical. They all also share the ability to take the same range of outboard engines, from a single 150hp up to a single 200hp. I tested all three versions; each equipped with a different engine option, and got a surprising result.
The Hull The Beneteau Flyer 6 hull is a development of its earlier air step technology. It still has the step in the hull, but now it draws its air from the bow rather than through air tubes in the topsides. By introducing air beneath the hull, friction is reduced and the result is a better performing, and more economical boat. This particular hull also benefits from a very deep vee entry section to provide a comfortable ride in choppy conditions, but with a wide and flatter section aft, the Flyer 6 provides lots of stability. In fact, for a 6
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metre boat, it barely leaned when I boarded over the side and, even with four people all standing on the same side, the boats lean is considerably less than you would get from a conventaional design. The Flyer 6 offers a very stable platform, whichever model you choose. Underway each boat performed slightly differently, as much to do with the different engine options as anything, but in one way they were all the same, the cornering. This boat corners like it’s on rails. It barely leans, but goes around tight and flat. Another nice surprise was just how good the hull was in less than ideal conditions. Out in a force 4 the seas were beginning to build with white horses and a short steep wave pattern. Despite this I was able to maintain over 20 knots into a head sea with almost no evidence of slamming. Turning around and 30 knots was no problem in the following sea. On a boat of this size, that is quite an achievement. SPACEdeck As the name suggests, this boat is all about the open deck space. A centre console provides walkaround decks with a pair of tall seats offering a good driving position and
The aft seat on all three models converts to a sunpad
a comfortable navigators chair. Aft of the console is a large open cockpit with a full width transom seat, which can fold flat into a sunpad if required. Part of the transom seat lifts out to give access to the bathing platform and ladder on the port side, and there is a small locker in the platform on the starboard side. Beneath the floor of the cockpit is a cavernous locker suitable for storing all manner of boat and related kit. A small table can be fixed into the cockpit if required. The cockpit sides are tall, and the stainless steel rail on top adds to the feeling of security this provides. There are also rod holders in the cockpit coamings. Nice wide decks lead past the consol to the forward
The SPACEdeck can be fitted with an all over bimini or this very comfortable bow hammock Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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SPORTDECK
SPACEDECK
PERFORMANCE
PERFORMANCE As tested: 3 crew water 0% fuel 50% Force 1 RPM
Knots
LPH
GPH
MPG
Range (nm)
Noise
Idle
2.4
1.5
0.33
7.27
271
1000
3.4
2.5
0.55
6.18
231
1500
5.8
6.2
1.36
4.26
159
2000
6.7
8.1
1.78
3.76
140
2500
8.2
16.2
3.56
2.30
86
3000
16.4
19.3
4.25
3.86
144
3500
22.8
26.2
5.76
3.96
148
4000
30.2
29.4
6.47
4.67
174
4500 5000 5400
30.9 35.0 38.0
40.3 54.0 65.7
8.87 11.9 14.5
3.48 2.94 2.62
130 110 98
69 70 71 74 81 85 88 90 92 93 96
deck. Here there is seating for up to six in front of the helm and on two benches either side, both with storage below. The square bow provides a good wide space all the way forward for the crew to enjoy. The aft table can also fit in the bow, offering a perfect place on board for an al fresco lunch. The helm console is finished in a grey gelcoat that looks nice, but which seems to
As tested 2 crew water 0% fuel 50% Force 4 RPM
Knots
LPH
GPH
MPG
Range (nm)
Noise
Idle
2.3
1.3
0.29
7.93
296
1000
3.2
2.2
0.48
6.67
249
1500
5.1
3.9
0.86
5.93
221
2000
6.1
6.1
1.34
4.55
170
2500
7.0
10.2
2.24
3.13
117
3000
9.5
13.9
3.06
3.11
116
3500
12.3
18.9
4.16
2.97
111
4000
19.5
21.1
4.64
4.20
157
4500 5000 5500 5800
23.8 27.5 30.8 34.2
28.3 35.5 55.5 59.0
6.23 7.81 12.2 13.0
3.82 3.52 2.53 2.63
142 131 94 98
69 70 72 74 76 78 83 88 89 94 95 95
mark quite easily. The helm itself offers space for a seven inch electronic instrument, and a Suzuki engined boat comes with their multi function display offering rpm, fuel levels, trim etc. Our test boat was also equipped with a separate trim gauge and Suzuki’s troll mode control. Inside the console is the cabin/storage area. It is definately more storage than cabin,
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SUNDECK PERFORMANCE As tested 4 crew water 0% fuel 45% Force 3
“The Flyer 6 hull is impressive for its size”
RPM
Knots
LPH
GPH
MPG
Range (nm)
Noise
Idle
2.3
1.4
0.31
7.42
277
1000
3.2
2.3
0.51
6.28
234
1500
4.9
4.2
0.92
5.37
200
2000
6.1
6.2
1.36
4.49
167
2500
7.1
10.7
2.35
3.02
112
3000
8.0
15.4
3.39
2.36
88
3500
10.7
20.7
4.55
2.35
87
4000
21.5
22.4
4.93
4.36
163
4500 5000 5400
25.5 28.4 31.4
32.9 45.0 56.6
7.24 9.90 12.5
3.52 2.87 2.51
131 107 93
68 70 72 72 73 78 82 88 90 94 95
although in an emergency it could probably be slept in. What it is going to prove more useful for is storing the cockpit table, the boats cushions and any other kit you want to carry on board. It is lockable, which will help keep your kit secure when going ashore. Perhaps the most useful feature of this cabin area is the proper sea toilet. Out for a days fishing or general boating, having your own toilet in a private area really opens up the possibilities, and will appeal particularly to female crew members. The SPACEdeck tested was fitted with the largest engine option, a 200hp Suzuki outoard. Performance was brisk to say the least, with top speeds getting on for 40 knots and very good acceleration too. With two crew sitting on the transom seat the boat
Engine options are single outboard from 150hp up to 200hp
did tend to ride quite bow high, but bring one crew member forward to the navigators seat and the ride flattened off. As previously mentioned the boat grips the water like nothing else. Tight turns did cause some ventilation, even with the leg trimmed fully in. Leaving it in cruising trim, it ventilated freely during cornering. The hull handled very well in the light conditions I tested this model in. It cruised effortlessly in the mid 20’s and felt just as composed at 30 knots. There are a couple of interesting options available on this model. A full bimini from bow to stern that offers useful shelter on those rare sunny days, and a very comfortable hammock that clips into position over the bow section and is perfect for simply lazing the day away.
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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The SUNdeck has a very usable cuddy cabin with toilet. The cockpit is identical to the SPACEdeck
SUNdeck From the helm seat aft, this boat is identical to the SPACEdeck, albeit with a 175hp Suzuki on the transom. From here forward however, it is a very different animal. The bow area above decks is given over entirely to a large sunpad, and there is access forward only down the port side of the helm console. The console itself is also identical to the SPACEdeck, but open the door and the
The helm is comfortable and nicely equipped. Its windscreen offers good protection
difference is huge. This is much more like a proper cuddy cabin. The sea toilet is in the same position, but now there is a full width berth and space for two to comfortably spend the odd night on board. The berth can also be set us as two singles if required. It’s still quite sparten and there are no galley facilities but as a day boat with an occasional overnighter, it offers just enough. The SUNdeck handled exactly the same as the SPACEdeck, with the same precise flat cornering and the same tendency to ventilate if pushed too hard. Again the hull impressed for its size. The seas had picked up and in a force 3 with a short chop I could still make 28 knots into a head sea, without having to work the throttle and with zero slamming. The console windscreen offers good protection, even when helming while standing. With your head well clear of the screen, the wind is nicely deflected. The helm seat is comfortable when seated, and the lifting bolster offers good support when standing. The SUNdeck can also be specified with the all over bimini if required. This model was fitted with Suzuki’s DF175
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June 2014
and also came with their electronic throttle and shift, which offered effortless control. With four crew, performance was down, even on the SPORTdeck with the smaller engine option, but it still had plenty or power and acceleration to make this a fun boat to drive. Sitting on the transom seat engine noise is quite intrusive, and you do get a certain amount of back spray from the water that the hull and engine throw up. SPORTdeck This boat is clearly all about the water sports. Our boat was fitted with the optional wakeboard tower and certainly looked the part. Obviously the hull is the same and the aft section is very similar in terms of the transom seat/sunpad arrangement and large cockpit floor locker, but from this point onwards this boat could almost be a completely different model. Out goes the centre console and in comes a bow rider sports boat design. There are two low
down bucket style seats on each side of the boat with a centre walkthrough to the bow section. The helm offers all the same features and functions, albeit in a very different layout, and is still moulded with the same grey gelcoat. There is a wraparound windscreen with lifting mid section, but there is no lower door to keep the weather, wind and spray out. The seats in the bow offer good seating for four or comfortable lounging for two, and like the SPACEdeck, the table can be mounted forward or aft. In the bow floor there is a useful locker for water sports kit, and another decent locker under the starboard side seat. Just because this is an all open boat, don’t think Beneteau have forgone the all important toilet. It’s right there beneath the port side bow seat. Like me, your first thought is probably, “who is going to sit on a toilet in the bow of a bowrider”? Well for the more modest boater Beneteau offer a bow enclosure, which not only provides privacy for the toilet, but
The SPORTdeck offers bowrider styling, sportsboat handling, and even a toilet
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
77
also a useful changing area. Like the other models, but probably most important for the SPORTdeck, the boat also comes with an optional 50 litre fresh water tank and a transom shower. This model was fitted with the smallest engine option, a 150hp Suzuki, and by the time I took it out on test the wind and the sea had picked up. We were now facing a good force 4 with plenty of white horses and a decent chop. My notes simply start with “Wow”. I can honestly say that I can’t remember the last time I was quite as surprised by a boat as I was with the SPORTdeck. It was brilliant. It still cornered like the other boats and still ventilated occasionally, but despite having the smallest engine it was, without doubt, the best of the three to drive and just felt more planted in the water. I suspect it is the fact that you feel like you are sitting in it, rather than on it, but it seemed so much more dynamic than the other two. It really felt like a sports boat. The hull was still just as good and, despite the conditions, I was able to make 22 knots into a head sea with no slamming, and 30 knots in a following sea was no
The SPORTdeck is everything a sportsboat should be, practical, fast and huge amounts of fun
problem at all. It didn’t feel short of power, despite the 150hp engine, although with more passengers the extra horse power may well be beneficial. One minor gripe on this model was that the windscreen didn’t offer much protection, and you have the wind, and any spray, in your face the whole time.
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Conclusion Which would I buy? On the day, the boat that impressed me most was the one that I was originally least interested in. Maybe it was because, as a cruiser, I am always drawn to boats with cabins, no matter how small and impractical. The SPORTdeck though really blew me away. The smaller engine took little away, performance wise, and the lower seating position really suited the hull. It was, without a doubt, the most fun to drive. Ultimately it comes down to what constitutes a good day on the water for you. If it’s water sports and swimming, you’re in luck, because the SPORTdeck is the right choice. If you prefer fishing or diving, the SPACEdeck makes much more
sense. If cruising, either day or weekend is your thing, there really is no contest. It has to be the SUNdeck. Whatever your preference, unless you particularly need the extra power, the smallest engine option really is more than adequate, and will make any version of the Flyer 6 a more affordable boat.
ENQUIRIES: Bates Wharf 01323 470066 www.bateswharf.co.uk YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Sessa Key Largo 20
Capelli Freedom 20
This centre console boat has a large sunpad area up front and is available with a single outboard from 90hp, up to 175hp
With a similar layout to the Sundeck, the 5.5WA is under 18 foot long and comes with a single outboard of up to 120hp.
LOA 6.10m Beam 2.30m Displacement 1150kgs ex engine Enquiries: Bates Wharf 01932 571141 www.bateswharf.co.uk
LOA 6.05m Beam 2.30m Displacement 850kgs ex engine Enquiries: The Boat Crew 01548 843383 www.theboatcrew.co.uk
LOA: 5.48m Beam: 2.36m Displacement: 1039kg Enquiries: Sea Ventures UK 01489 565444 www.sea-ventures.co.uk
The Sessa has a cuddy and a sea toilet and is available with an outboard engine from 115hp up to 150hp. It also comes in a range of colours.
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Jeanneau CC 5.5 WA
PRICE from £23,988
Bayliner 742, Element & Element XL
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PENTON HOOK MARINE SALES www.thamesboatsales.co.uk USED BOATS
NEW Sealine S450 £388,670 Due September Twin Volvo Penta D6 Diesels
NEW Sealine F380 £337,490 Due June Twin Volvo Penta D4 Diesels
NEW Sealine S380 £255,410 Due June Twin Volvo Penta D4 Diesels
2012 Fairline Squadron 42 £379,999 Twin Volvo D6 370hp Diesels
2006 Sealine S42 £179,950 Twin Volvo Penta D6 IPS500 Lying Mallorca
2007 Sea Ray 335 £97,950 Twin Yanmar 315hp diesels Four berths, full nav package
2009 Sealine SC35 £159,950 Twin Volvo D4 260hp Diesels Superb cockpit for entertaining
Westwood A35 Choice of 2 from £139,950
Good accommodation & use of space
2004 Sealine F34 £104,950 Twin Volvo Penta KAD43P Diesels Incredibly spacious and practical
2006 Regal 3360 £79,950 Twin Yanmar 4LHA 240hp Diesels Great cockpit for entertaining
2005 Marex 280 Single Yanmar 76hp Diesel Practical vessel
Fairline Turbo 36 Twin Diesels Choice of three from £64,950 Well respected boats
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@
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London Seamaster
Seamaster 23 passing HMS Belfast in London SPOTTED! by Pam Born
Baby on tow
New delivery driver, baby Josh picks up a Cobalt 273 SPOTTED! by Steven Chambers (Gibbs Marine)
Fender? “oh really!”
We saw this fender at Beaulieu Boat Jumble SPOTTED! by Neale Byart
Glory, Glory Gloriana
Gloriana looking splendid in St Katharine Docks SPOTTED! by John Frew Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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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
Fairey Owners Club
www.atlantaboats.co.uk
www.faireyownersclub.co.uk
Bavaria Owners’ Association
Fairline Owners Club
www.bavariaowners.co.uk
www.fairlineownersclub.com
Bayliner Owners Club
Fjord Club
www.baylinerownersclub.org
www.fjordclub.com
Beneteau Owners’ Association
Fletcher Owners Club
www.beneteau-owners-association.org.uk
fletcher-boats.co.uk/your-fletcher/owners-club
Birchwood Boat Owners Forum
Freeman Cruisers Forum
birchwoodboatowners.myfreeforum.org
freemanboats.forumer.com
Broom Owners Club
Freeman Owners Club
www.broomowners.com
Chaparral Boat Owners Forum
forum.chaparralboats.com
Classic Motor Boat Association www.cmba-uk.com
Cleopatra Owners Club mycleopatra.ning.com
Coronet Cruisers freespace.virgin.net/simon.sherlock/index.htm
Cranchi Owners Club & Forum cranchiownersclub.com
Dawncraft Owners Club & Forum www.dawncraftowners.com
82
www.freemancruisers.com
Haines Owners Club www.hainesmarine.co.uk/owners.php
Hampton Safari Boat Club hamptonsafaribc.webplus.net
Hardy Owners Club www.hardy-owner.org.uk
Mariah Owners Club www.mariahownersclub.com
Maxum Owners Club www.maxumownersclub.com
Microplus Boats www.microplus.dk
June 2014
Monterey Fourm
Seamaster Club
forums.montereyboats.com
www.seamasterclub.co.uk
Moonraker Owner’s Club
Seaward Owners Club
www.moonraker.dk/eng_index.htm
www.seawardboat.com/club.html
Nauticus
Shetland Owners Association
www.nauticus.co.uk
www.shetlandowners.co.uk/shetland/
Nelson Boat Owners Club
Star Craft Owners Club
www.nelsonboatownersclub.co.uk
Nimbus Owners Club UK www.nimbusowners.co.uk
Norman Appreciation Society www.normanboats.co.uk
Princess Owners Club princessownersclub.com
Regal Owners Forum www.regalownersforum.com
Relcraft Boaters Group www.relcraftboatersgroup.co.uk
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
Owners Club missing? contact us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Rinker Owners Club www.rinkerboats.com/owners-club
Sea Ray Owners Club
www.clubsearay.com
Sealine Forum www.sealineforum.co.uk
Advertise with us
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PERSONALISED PRODUCTS We can supply hand held dry powder, foam, CO2 or water mist extinguishers in all sizes personalised with your boat name, make, model and logo Price from £12.00 PREMIUM RANGE Anything from the standard or engine room ranges using high quality, corrosion resistant stainless steel cylinders. Price from £120
A cost effective range of hand held dry powder, foam, CO2 and water mist extinguishers from 1kg/litre to 9kg/litre and a selection of fire blankets from 1m2 to 1.8m2. Price from £10.00
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